We've just launched a beta for www.tripshows.net It's a travel social media site. Trying to jump start initial users and content. Any suggestions? thanks.
i find the easiest way to jump start initial users is to give something away for free. maby the most active users get a camera or something like that. or maby a profile page contest where the best profile gets something. throw out a articles about your site and the users will come. you have something that i have never seen before so i think you have trouble getting users. you should advertise a little on travel forums in your signature. that should get you some interest.
build interesting content and then even accidental visitors will become part of your own group good luck
Post all events and updates as articles on Digg.com and create groups on Myspace and Facebook. Advertise online and locally. Have all your friends and thier friends spread word of mouth advertising