What Makes a Great Place Marketer: Insights from Ted Levine

Last week, DCI celebrated Ted Levine’s induction into the Destinations International Hall of Fame as an Industry Contributor.  

A pioneer in the practice of place marketing, Ted Levine founded DCI with the mission of elevating countries, states, regions and cities and improving the quality of life within hundreds of destinations in the United States and around the world. More than 60 years later, DCI continues to pursue this important mission. 

We’re pleased to celebrate Ted’s impact on the travel profession by sharing five key lessons from an article he wrote in 1993 titled “Good Travel Marketers and Great Travel Marketers: What’s The Difference?” Over 30 years later, Ted’s wisdom is as relevant as ever. 

1. Persistence 

A good travel marketer doesn’t give up easily. A great travel marketer doesn’t give up at all.  

2. Communication 

A good travel marketer talks to the people who count in their community. A great travel marketer talks with everybody.   

3. Innovation 

A good travel marketer is open to creative ideas. A great travel marketer insists on them.  

4. Technology 

A good travel marketer is eager to use all the best available technology. A great travel marketer isn’t afraid to invent their own.  

5. Risk  

A good travel marketer follows the direction of community leaders and board members. A great travel marketer is willing to stick his or her neck out when the situation warrants it.  

For more on the life and legacy of Ted Levine, visit DCI’s about page.