Final Project Proposal
Traveling Italy Off the Beaten Path - The Tourist's Guide to Experiencing the Country Like a Local.
Jessica E. Gonzales
October 12, 2009
EdTec 541, Thursday 7 p.m. Section
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Problem/Need/Opportunity
Many first-time travelers to Italy rely on the aid of travel agents and booking companies to establish 'must-see' sights and destinations that are often over-priced and over-crowded. More often times than not tourists leave Italy without experiencing the diverse countryside, people, and culture that lies off the beaten-path (i.e. away from tourist traps). This website incorporates the input of travelers and residents of Italy to help future tourists discover an adventure less traveled. A website is ideal to feature visuals that other aids that can be conveniently accessed via the web.
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Audience
The primary audience would be people interested in traveling Italy beyond the typical tourist zones. However, other audiences would include travel agents and booking companies looking to expand their expertise on Italian travel.
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User Needs
After speaking with past travelers to Italy, and current residents, there were a few common areas they expressed a need for clarification to enhance the tourist experience.
- Transportation: determining how to purchase travel arrangements within the country, and the best mode of transportation for their travel needs.
- Cultural Norms: traveling beyond tourist areas, Travelers need to be more aware of cultural cues/norms when dealing with local residents.
- Community Outlines: summarizing the community-specific cultural norms, customs, features and cuisine within a given town/province.
- Advice from Locals & Recent Travelers: first-hand knowledge of what to expect and how to make the most out of your travels off the beaten-path.
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Environment
This site will be accessed by any interested invidual via Internet. Some printing will be required to print-out maps and other guidelines to enhance the traveler experience.
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Resources & Limitations
Photos and other multimedia will be supplied courtesy of the site administrator, as well as past Travelers who have submitted their photos/words of advice for inclusion in this site. Key information/advice on this site will be supplied by past and current Travelers/residents in Italy.
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General Solution
Overall, this website will work to give future travelers an up-close and personal look at experiencing Italy through a path less traveled. Users will gain insight and information on select 'off the beaten-path' areas that afford a rich cultural experience that is simply non-existent in more touristy areas.
