Social media round-up
A report out this week shows that Tourism Australia is the tourism body making the most use of Instagram, the image-led social media site. Of the top 200 photos related to tourism, 197 were posted by the Tourism Australia team. What’s more exciting is that Siren’s very own Katie Wright features in the top 10 most popular photos. See the full run down of images on skift.com.
In the week that Facebook turns 10 years old there will undoubtedly be a series of blog posts and comment pieces about the implications of the world’s largest social media network. And it’s true, Facebook really has changed the world (not always for the better). But putting the social impact aside, you can’t help but marvel at the sheer size and growth of a platform that started out all those years ago. This illustrated story of Facebook is a great way to understand the history of a global phenomenon.
Facebook isn’t the only one with a big birthday this year. Apple’s Macintosh is marking 30 years and to celebrate, 15 camera crews were sent around the globe armed with iPhone 5s to demonstrate how Apple has delivered on its promise "to put technology in the hands of the people". This video not only neatly showcases Apple products being used across the world but also includes some incredibly beautiful shots that will inevitably spark that wanderlust within.
NekNomination is a thing unfortunately, and the past few weeks have seen thousands take part in this nomination-style drinking game that has taken over the internet. This week South African Brent Lindeque decided to turn the whole game on its head and remind people what really matters with his brilliant video – A South African NekNomination. Shedding light on poverty, while also giving back to someone in need, Bret’s vision to harness the power of social media to make a real difference in people’s lives, is one that we should all remember.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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