We think Google+ and its ‘hang-outs’ that they offer are going to be a great way for us to help people plan their holidays to Patagonia.
We are holding hangouts fortnightly (check back on the blog or on our social media to find out when) so you can get the chance to talk to Patagonian experts and fellow travellers.
Luke explains what to expect from a Swoop hangout in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RwT4ig3icT4
What is a hangout?
This is a video call, a bit like Skype, that up to 10 people can join, hosted by Google+. You can ask questions about your trip, meet fellow travelers, and get answers from real people who are deeply knowledgeable and passionate about travelling in Patagonia.
Why should you join in a hangout instead of a personal Skype call or phone call?
There are a number of ways Google hangouts differ from a Skype or phone call:
1.You will get ideas for your trip from other travelers and activities you had not previously thought about that may change your whole holiday plan.
2. You’ll hear tips and ideas from people who have just returned from their Patagonia trip.
3. You’ll have the chance to speak directly to some of the guides that you might be with in the national parks as well as our partners out in Patagonia.
All of this will give you a much more detailed idea of what to expect from a Patagonia experience.
What equipment do you need for the video call?
If you have a computer, a smartphone or a tablet you are well on the way. The real benefit of Google Hangouts are the ability to see people in the ‘video call’, so having a camera is ideal. But when it comes to the ‘video call’ aspect of hangouts there are a couple of options: a. using your internal computer/mobile/tablet b. using an external camera attached to your computer.
Next, you want to consider your microphone; again you could use the internal microphone easily enough.
What if I don’t want to be seen?
If you don’t want to be seen on the webcam you can join in just by sending us over questions to be answered on the hangout or join in by just asking questions on the messenger on the hangout.
What if I’m not available at the time the hangout is happening?
You can watch it on our Youtube channel straight after or get in touch with us through our social media to ask a question you want answering.
Can i join in a hangout if i’m not on Google+?
If you’re not on Google+ you can’t join in the hangout but you can still watch it live on our youtube channel
What if i want to speak to the Swoop team privately?
Swoop are still going to be available through the traditional channels (emails and phone calls) so don’t hesitate to get in touch if you want a more private conversation.
Will my personal details be kept private:
Google hangouts are recorded live so anything you say during the hangout will be aired. With this is mind we ask that you NEVER share any private or personal information while you are in the hangout they are purely to exchange information about the activities and places you can enjoy while on a Patagonian adventure.
If you’re already on Google+ add ‘Swoop Travel’ or join our ‘Discovering Patagonia’ community to be the first to find out about our hangouts.
If you have any questions about Swoop’s on air hangouts contact our social media manager: clare@swooptravel.co.uk
