OVERVIEW
Living in the digital age, people are more isolated than ever before. Travel is a great way to meet new people, gather with friends, reduce stress, and deepen connections with other people. However, because of language barriers, budget concerns, safety issues, and such, it's not always easy to meet new people or find friends with similar interests to share the trip experience. Also, for most travelers, it's hard to know the best-hidden views, cheap and tasty eats, and other gems.
RESEARCH
Secondary research - Literature review
We started the project by reviewing the current literature in the traveling field. We have looked into research studies and gathered peer-reviewed materials that could be used as our content foundation.
Key Takeaways:
Secondary research - Competitive products
I selected three similar APPs to evaluate their average performance. Collected better ideas from each app for the brainstorming phase.
Primary research - interview
We conducted 1:1 interviews to understand our audience and their pain points, needs, and preferences.
Takeaways:
Teaming up with a travel buddy helps travelers save money.
Find a travel companion for a tour to avoid the single supplement.
Looking for a reliable trip website and information is the priority before the trip.
Safety comes first when it comes to traveling with a stranger.
Found travel buddies can enhance the travel experience through your own cultural lens and that of your new travel companion as well.
Tour Pal is a social platform where every traveler can easily find
excellent tour pals based on similar interests and destinations and gain invaluable experience.
I conducted interviews with individuals ages 18–35 who had within the past traveled in a group of 3 or more people.
PERSONA
Target users
Explorers: want to explore new places, look at other people’s travel stories, and ask questions about a destination.
Travelers: Intending to find a travel companion, join a trip, or simply explore different places.