This document discusses how social media can be an effective marketing tool for tourism operators. It notes that the internet is now the most important marketing channel, surpassing traditional media like television, radio and print. It provides statistics on social media usage, especially Facebook, to demonstrate the large audience that can be reached. The document outlines four rules for using social media successfully: having a presence beyond just your website, using social media as one of many communication channels, creating engaging content, and treating social media as a conversation rather than just broadcasting messages. It concludes by introducing the author and providing his contact details.