Online marketing tool puts 'Geordieland' on the map

A new online marketing venture is putting Newcastle on the map as ‘Geordieland,’ a top tourist destination. ’

The NewcastleGateshead Initiative project plots Twitter content from venues, attractions, shops, bars, restaurants and individuals on an illustrated map of NewcastleGateshead.

It is designed to inspire visitors and locals alike and is available online from 20 May via mobile platforms like smartphones and tablets, as well as desktop computers.

‘Geordieland’ was designed by Newcastle-based creative agency, Drummond Central.

It allows users to search for inspiration by filtering content by themes covering food & drink, accommodation, nightlife, shopping and things to see & do

The platform also pulls through live Tweets from users who have their Twitter location services switched-on.

Sarah Stewart, chief executive at the destination management and marketing organisation, said: “Geordieland is a unique website that really allows visitors and residents to immerse themselves in the vibrant personality of the place and make the most of the time they spend in NewcastleGateshead.

“The map allows us to harness the power of social media, and brings together all the fascinating information already shared on Twitter across the destination in one easy to use platform.

“We’re encouraging Twitter fans to use #Geordieland in their posts.

“By incorporating live Tweets from members of the public, as well as venues and businesses in the city, we can ensure content is always dynamic and recommendations are available to Geordieland users from the people who know the place best, our local residents.”

Geordieland is the latest in a series of digital advancements by NewcastleGateshead Initiative which have included launching one of the UKs first destination smartphone apps, and website developments that have seen a growth in unique visitors at www.NewcastleGateshead.com to more than a million in 2012, an increase of +71% versus the previous year.

Jamie Davies, Account Director at Drummond Central, commented: “We’ve been right behind the Geordieland concept since the early stages of discussion and the whole strategy has never swayed from putting the information sourcing needs of the end-user first.

“The end product blends traditional illustration with very clever digital technology and the foundations are in place for Geordieland to develop to embrace the breadth of social platforms audience groups connect with.”