Margaret's Travels

Japanese Tourism Promoted by Cats

margaretsw — Mon, 22 Dec 2014 23:38:00 GMT

From Hello Kitty to Mary the cat who loves boxes, Japanese have shown the world that their fascination with the four-legged creatures knows no boundaries. So, it was only a matter of time for marketeers to take advantage of the world-wide-spread kitty-mania to promote more than pet products, school accessories and clothes.

Understanding the phenomenon of cats on the Internet, as well as taking advantage of the fact that cats are considered to bring good luck and fortune in the Land of the Rising Sun, has helped Japanese travel agency Jalan to launch a marketing campaign that has gone viral. Youtube videos of two lovely white and orange kitties travelling across the country have already gathered over 50,000 views (counting only the three official videos and not the re-uploads by fans).

Drawing on the knowledge (something any social media junkie would gladly tell you for free) that an adorable picture of a pet will get the attention of hundreds of thousands users all over the globe, Jalan used two bright and overly cute kittens to create a series of videos and photoshoots. The two stars explore the country traveling by train or even plane. The main idea is to show tourists what Japan would look like during different seasons. Everyone loves a romantic picture of the blossoming cherries the country is so popular with but when you add two elaborately dressed and accessorised kitties to the scenery, it becomes a fire-proof recipe for success.

Nyalan and Deshi are the names of the two cute cats featured in the campaign. While this might not be their first rodeo at advertising (many companies have used their services for TV commercials), this type of tourism marketing is first-of-its kind for Japan. You can see the two friends attend a formal tea ceremony, do some fishing, have a barbecue with their friend, play traditional Japanese card games, visit the local markets and take a stroll on the beach.

What do you think of marketing campaigns? Maybe soon we will see more companies taking advantage of the cat mania? Perhaps even cleaning companies like Paul's Cleaning Melbourne would take advantage of the untapped power of feline advertising.

Or maybe people will eventually grow tired of the over-exploitation of cats and will look for a new way of entertainment. One that still hasn't been marked by marketeers.

Photos: Childhood Travels

margaretsw — Tue, 4 Nov 2014 19:19:00 GMT

What Did Different Cities Teach Me

margaretsw — Tue, 4 Nov 2014 19:05:00 GMT

I just love my childhood. I was born in Perth, Australia, but because of the nature of my father's job we didn't stick there much. To be honest, I don't even remember the place. Some might think that moving around a lot is not good for you, and while it is hard at times, I admit, it gives the young mind different from their peers' perspective on things, and makes them more adaptable and resilient. I guess this is where I thank my father for giving me the opportunity to learn. So, thank you, dad! Here's what moving around taught me:

1. Rome, Italy.

This is where my family moved after Perth. Being the new kid on the block was definitely stressful, I can tell you that. But being a child in a completely new environment, you learn how to rely on yourself for everything that really matters. Three years after we moved to Rome we were off to the next adventure/life lesson.

2. Mumbai, India.

These is when I experienced the real culture shock. But when you're a child you learn to adapt quicker than adults, and quite well, if I might add. India with all its wonders taught me to be open-minded and go beyond my comfort zone, both of which are qualities that helped me immensely later on in life. After a year and a half, we went back to the motherland.

3. Sydney, Australia.

By the time we moved to Sydney I was aware that moving around was something normal for us. I also realised that cleaning up and packing was really important. Having to move your whole life enables you to differentiate between what's really important and worth keeping. Note: I'm not talking only about the material things here. After only a year in Australia we moved to London.

4. London, United Kingdom.

Having changes scenery so often made me very confident in myself. So adapting to the pace of London and making new friends there was really not a problem. The new city taught me to immerse myself in the new culture and live like I am an integral part of it, not just a tourist. I also learned to pursue my goals and be fully dedicated to what I do. After four years in England it was time to move on.

5. New York, USA.

We moved there in early 2001. About six months after, 9/11 happened. Living through an event of such magnitude really gives you a perspective on life. I remember feeling scared, but slowly I learned to overcome fear and don't let it guide my actions and define who I am.

There are times when you definitely feel alone and lost, but at the end of the day I am really glad to have had the opportunity to meet so many amazing people and to have made so many great memories all over the world. I honestly wouldn't trade my childhood for anything. I now live in Australia with my children and we constantly travel the country. Our motto: "You have to journey the homeland to truly love it".

Photos: Margaret Swanton

margaretsw — Tue, 4 Nov 2014 19:00:00 GMT