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Our Retail client family is growing
2018 has seen us welcome another houshold name into our client family. We're thrilled to embark on this partnership and know there's exciting work to come.
Welcoming back an old flame
This year has seen us welcome back an old flame into our retail sector and we're thrilled to be working with this luxury department store once again.
An exciting addition to our Automotive team
The start of the year has seen an exciting expansion of our client family here at 4Ps part of Artefact. We're thrilled to welcome one of the automotive industry's biggest names into the fold.
Google Marketing Platform: more than just a rebrand?
Following Google's rebrand of its advertising software at the end of last month, we asked our Artefact colleagues for their take on the new platform. Find out what they said below!
Google retires the DoubleClick brand – The king is dead, long live the king!
Here we discuss exactly what's changed and the impact it will have.
Why Japan deserves a tailored digital marketing strategy
In this week's APAC blog post we explore the importance of creating a strong digital presence for any brand looking to expand into the Japanese market.
How Businesses should make the most of Instagram Stories
Instagram Stories are so much more than just fun creative methods for people to capture snapshots of their day. Here we discuss how brands can use them as a key part of their marketing strategy.
Why brands shouldn't overlook the digital opportunity in Southeast Asia
We're moving away from China with this week's APAC blog post and exploring why Southeast Asia should be a key location for any brand looking to expand into APAC.
WeChat: China's Social Phenomenon
What exactly is WeChat and why is it crucial to your Chinese digital marketing strategy? We've got all the answers in the second instalment of our APAC blog series.
Cracking the Chinese market
Last month, 4Ps hosted colleagues from Artefact APAC at our offices in London. Together we discussed the complexities of leveraging the Chinese and Asian markets with some of our clients. Here are our top takeaways from the discussion.
How audience-centric are you really?
At our Digital EDGE event, audience-centric marketing was one of our hottest topics. But can you honestly say you're completely audience-centric? Take our test to find out.
Why brands need to spend more on targeting existing customers
Here we delve into the topic of 'Marketing the Middle Funnel' and explore why brands should focus on targeting existing customers.
New Spring Arrivals At 4Ps
Spring has certainly sprung here at 4Ps and the start of the year has seen us welcome some fabulous new clients into the 4Ps family.
Why disruptors are leading the way in the world of data
Here we discuss how Amazon is setting the standards for how brands should manage their data.
Is AI going to replace me?
At our Digital EDGE event last month AI was a key topic of discussion. Here, our Head of Client Experience - Liz Partridge - takes the opportunity to comment on the elephant in the room. What will the rise of AI mean for the future of our workplace?
Inspiring The Employee Experience At 4Ps
After reading Gethin Nadin's 'A World of Good', Joss - our HR Manager - shares her views on Nadin's work and how it's inspired her approach to HR at 4Ps
We need to talk about….GDPR
With the 25th May fast approaching we hope you're all feeling prepared for the GDPR deadline. For any of you late to the party don't worry. We've got you covered with our very own step by step guide to handling GDPR.
9 predictions to get you thinking differently about data
With the subject of data being at the heart of our Digital EDGE event last month, we've taken some time to consider where data could take us in the future.
Age of assistance: A world where Domino's delivers tech (with a side of pizza)
At our recent Digital EDGE event, Peter Giles from Google talked about how assistance has become the new battleground for growth among brands. We caught up with him to find out more...
#FeelGood: How we want to continue to be "Good Human Beings" in 2018
4Ps HR assistant Sandip Gill talks about all things that make us #FeelGood which includes our Pass It Forward, Giving Back and Story Time campaigns!
Increasing ALA's website traffic through Social Media
4Ps worked with ALA Gap Insurance to increase engagement on their website, utilising social media channels and monthly newsletters to boost page views.
Muting Ads and the Impact on Advertisers
The increasing introduction of AdBlocking techniques are a challenge to digital advertisers – but are they the enemy at all?
Further Investment in Data and AI Services
Artefact (ex-NetBooster Group) raises nearly €15,5 million and 4Ps Marketing reveals new business offerings.
#BloggerGate: What Happened And What Can We Learn?
4Ps wades in on the recent #BloggerGate fiasco, and discusses how influencer marketing and relationships should be handled in the travel and hospitality sector.
#4Psbreakfast – A World-First Artificial Intelligence Experiment
A world-first artificial intelligence experiment by 4Ps proves how AI can be integrated into a social campaign to improve speed to insight and allow marketers to create real-time personalised content.
Boosting Engagement with Hubs for Birmingham Airport
4Ps worked with Birmingham airport to increase engagement on their website and drive traffic as well as sales on the related e-commerce site.
Boosting Blog Visibility for Jules Verne
4Ps worked with specialist holiday provider Jules Verne to boost traffic to the website, utilising relevant and search-driven content on the blog.
Organic Marketing (& SEO) In 2018
4Ps strategist Ruth Attwood discusses the continuing evolution of SEO and how a broader approach to "organic marketing" is needed to seize success for your business in 2018 and beyond.
Optimisation Around User Intent for Voice Search
With Google's recent release of its specific search quality evaluations guidelines for voice technology, 4Ps takes a look at the wider-ranging implications of the document for voice search.
Third Sector Digital Breakfast – Data Collection and GDPR
The 4Ps Third Sector team sat down with some leading charities and data consultant Matt Stannard to discuss data collection, processing and the potential impacts of GDPR over breakfast.
Persona Driven Content Marketing For Search With The ACF
The Army Cadet Force was struggling with acquiring new adult volunteers for its organisation so the 4Ps team stepped in to develop a content marketing strategy based on data-driven personas to boost the numbers, with amazing results.
Affiliate For Luxury Brands: More Than Just Discounts!
Head of Affiliate Sina Holzheu discusses how luxury brands can get involved with affiliate marketing and why this channel is about much more than just discounts.
Bing vs The Bookies
The 4Ps Sports team gets seriously nerdy with Bing Predicts, Wimbledon results and statistical analysis to see if they can turn a profit on the tennis.
What The End Of Amazon's One-Click Patent Means For US Retailers
The 4Ps retail team discusses the expiry of Amazon's US patent on its one-click checkout technology, and what it could mean for stores in the USA.
Future Proofing Now For The Internet Of Things
The Internet Of Things and these voice search shenanigans just won't go away - but how can brands do something practical and actionable right now to start future-proofing their businesses?
4Ps Gets 5 Award Nominations In The Drum RAR Digital Awards 2017
4Ps Marketing, part of the NetBooster Group, has been nominated for an astounding five RAR Digital Awards this year!
Things That Money Can't Buy: A Work Life Balance
Karin, an account manager (and mum) on the fashion and beauty team, reflects on the benefits of agency flexible working and the family friendly atmosphere at 4Ps.
Should You Bid On Your Own Brand In PPC?
This is a question that comes up time and time again. Each case is different, but here are some informed pros and cons to brand bidding so you can make the best decision for you.
The HP Golf Society Tees Off
4Ps co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer Chris Hyland hits the greens with other business leaders to chat digital, marketing and entrepreneur life with the new HP Golf Society.
The New ASA Guidelines Simplified
Read our simplified version of the ASA's new guidelines on influencer and affiliate marketing. Find out how the changes affect both brands and influencers.
Third Sector Digital Breakfast – Digital Confessions (25th January 2017)
Charities shared their #DigitalConfessions at our Third Sector Breakfast to discuss some New Years' resolutions for their brands - here's what came out of the woodwork for 2017.
Google's Machine Learning & Semantic Understanding
Since Google confirmed the existence of their machine learning algorithm, RankBrain, the search engine's semantic understanding has come on in leaps and bounds. Our SEO Manager for Retail discusses some of his findings.
The Road Ahead: Content Predictions for 2017
The content team at 4Ps recently discussed the likely content marketing developments for 2017 and beyond. Read our predictions here.
4Ps' Third Sector Digital Breakfast
The 4Ps Third Sector / Charity team are hosting a breakfast meetup on the 25th January 2017 to discuss digital confessions and setting new year resolutions.
SEO In 2017: The Crystal Ball Predictions
The organic search team at 4Ps recently discussed the most likely SEO developments for 2017 (and beyond) - take a look at our thoughts here.
PPC Predictions for 2017
4Ps Head of Paid Search Marcus Knight discusses his key predictions for PPC advertising and what 2017 is likely to bring to the field.
How To Build Authentic Relationships With Influencers
The 4Ps content team joined a web session with Louise Roe, a leading journalist and blogger in the fashion and beauty scene. Here are our key takeaways from how brands can engage meaningfully with influencers in their markets.
Rich Answers Organic Growth For Jamie Oliver Recipes
The Food & Leisure team have been working with JamieOliver.com to improve citations in Google answer boxes in organic search results as an adapted strategy in reflection of a changing search landscape.
Why Product URLs Matter
Having SEO-friendly URLs for individual products on a large catalogue site isn't just a nicety - the 4Ps retail team demonstrate the potential long-tail organic uplift with this client example.
Let's Make It Official: The Time To Migrate To HTTPS Is Now
4Ps weighs in on Google's latest HTTPS push and outlines why now is the time for all brands to prioritise migration onto the secure web.
Boosting ALA's Website Traffic With Content
4Ps worked with ALA Gap Insurance to boost traffic to the website through the use of an overhauled blog architecture and search-driven content marketing calendar.
Google To Launch Separate Mobile Index In "Months"
Google's Gary Ilyes has recently confirmed that Google will be releasing a separate mobile search index which will replace desktop as the primary. What does this mean for brands pursuing cross-device visibility?
Third Sector Digital Breakfast: User Profiling Through Data For Campaign Planning
The third sector breakfast meetup in September discussed the use of analytics tools and data analysis to better understand users and potential donors for more effective campaign planning.
Digital EDGEucation 2016: The Halloween Edition
4Ps Marketing's Digital EDGEucation conference is back, and this time in a spooky Halloween edition! (For those with a nervous disposition, it won't actually be scary so don't worry).
Google Releases Penguin 4.0 Update
Google have (finally) released version 4.0 of the Penguin anti-spam algorithm. 4Ps discusses what has happened, what has changed and what it all means for your website.
4Ps Marketing Joins The NetBooster Family
4Ps Marketing has joined the Netbooster family; Matt Phelan shares a few key facts and some of the key reasons why the leadership team at 4Ps considered the move.
Custom Pixel Implementation For Facebook Dynamic Ads
The Travel & Leisure team at 4Ps helped adventure tour operator Discover The World to set up a technical implementation that would allow dynamic remarketing ads for individual holidays on Facebook.
Instagram vs Snapchat Stories
4Ps' social media aficionados take a look at the "stories" features on Snapchat and Instagram to see what the pros, cons and differences are on the two platforms.
Improving Quote To Sale Conversion Rate With Content
4Ps worked with ALA Gap Insurance to improve their onsite marketing with more engaging content that encouraged a higher quote to sale conversion rate.
Proving Digital Marketing Effectiveness to Charity Stakeholders
4Ps' Third Sector lead discusses how the agency works to demonstrate the effectiveness and value of digital marketing to key stakeholders in charities and nonprofit organisations.
Content For Christmas: Meetup 2016
Join us for another of our content marketing meetups on August 31st 2016 to discuss the importance of content strategies for retailers during peak season.
New Mobile Updates From Google
There's been a small flurry of exciting and important updates from Google on matters affecting mobile sites and SERPs. Our Head of SEO explains the key points.
Locally Targeted PPC Optimisation For Storage King
Storage King were struggling with a runaway account structure, uninspired ad copy and a poorly targeted set of campaigns, until the 4Ps paid search team stepped in.
LinkedIn Conversion Tracking
We're excited about the new LinkedIn conversion tracking pixel and its implications for remarketing on the platform soon - find out why.
Negative Keywords: The Unsung Heroes of Paid Search
Our Head of Paid Search waxes effusive on the many joys of negative keywords, including how they can be used to block conflict within an account and reduce your CPCs.
The National Gallery CRM Analysis
The 4Ps data insights team helped the National Gallery to understand the lifetime value and behavioural habits of their customers through joined-up analytics and CRM data.
Google Say All 3xx Redirects Pass PageRank: We Don't Buy It
Google's Gary Illyes recently mentioned that 30x redirects don't lose PageRank any more. Pardon the scepticism, but our Head of SEO just doesn't buy it.
Digital Chocolatiers #4PsEye
With help from the Food & Leisure team, #4PsEye takes a look into the good, the bad and the delicious of landing page and technical SEO site setup for some leading premium chocolatiers.
Breakfast with Bing: Discussing Growth Opportunities
4Ps invited some experts from Bing to host a breakfast discussing the opportunities offered by the growth in market share for Microsoft's search engine.
Third Sector Digital Breakfast – Email And Site Content Alignment
The recent 4Ps digital breakfast for the third sector talked about the benefits of aligning email marketing efforts with onsite content planning in order to achieve better campaign results.
The Warner Bros YouTube Promotions Scandal
Warner Bros has made a lot of headlines recently thanks to news about their payments made to prominent gamers on YouTube for positive reviews. The 4Ps content team weighs in.
Mick George Ltd Integrated Search Strategy
Mick George Ltd had very low click through for their PPC campaigns, so 4Ps reset their approach to meet the business needs as part of an integrated search strategy.
Modern Gardens Magazine Launch
Bauer Media approached 4Ps to manage the online launch of their new publication, Modern Gardens magazine, to grow subscriptions and brand awareness.
Spring 2016 Achievements At 4Ps
Spring is the season for growth and we've definitely been busy bees at 4Ps HQ, winning multiple awards and working our way further up the Top Agencies register too!
Waddlegoose Brand Relaunch
With paid advertising, social media and digital PR, 4Ps helped Aspall grow brand awareness around the launch of its new fruit cyder brand.
5 Takeaways from the IAB's Social Media Conference
Elle Whitehead, from the 4Ps Leisure Team, shares her key takeaways from the IAB's 7th annual Social Media conference.
Agency SEO Update: From Microdata To JSON
We're updating our agency guidelines to formally recommend the use of the JSON-LD format for structured data and semantic markup on websites - find out why here.
4Ps Marketing Retail Mobile EDGE (Summer Edition)
Join us for our Retail EDGE meetup BBQ on June 16th 2016 to discuss the importance of mobile search for retailers.
Shopping Ads In Google Image Search
Google are introducing product listing ads into image search results pages on mobile devices; the Head of PPC at 4Ps gives his view on the change.
4Ps Marketing: More Than (Just) An Award Winning Agency
What are you really looking for from your digital or search agency?
The Changing Landscape of Content for Search
Join 4Ps Marketing for our Content Marketing Meetup on May 26th 2016 to discuss the changing landscape of content for search.
A New Major Organic Algorithm Update?
We spend some time analysing the recent organic ranking fluctuations reported by major SERP volatility tracking software and provide insight on the latest mobile friendliness update.
The Children's Society Reach Top Level For Google Grants
4Ps are delighted to announce that they have helped The Children's Society to achieve Grantspro level for free PPC advertising through Google Grants.
Data Led UX Campaign For ALA Gap Insurance
4Ps' data and insight-led UX campaigns have resulted in better e-commerce conversion rates across all devices and yielded significant year-on-year revenue growth for GAP provider ALA Insurance.
Monitoring Stock To Inform Search Marketing Activity
Alex Smith, on the 4Ps Food & Drink team, talks through his innovative solution to monitor stock levels for a client to help improve the efficiency and ROI for their search marketing activity.
Third Sector Digital Breakfast – The Future Of Search
The recent 4Ps digital breakfast for the third sector talked about the future of search, including the rise of conversational queries, user behaviour changes, and the use of digital assistants.
Digital Motoring Lunch
4Ps & GoldSand Digital are hosting a lunch time Motoring Meetup on the 5th May 2016 to discuss the future of content marketing for the motoring industry.
Bing Shopping UK Launch
4Ps' Head of Paid Search is excited about the new Bing Shopping platform coming out of beta to full rollout in the UK; here's why you should be too.
Google and Bloggers: It's Complicated
4Ps Head of Content, Kelly Green, takes a look at the increasingly complicated relationship between Google and bloggers, and its wider implications for digital and influencer marketing.
The Effect Of Feed Changes On Instagram Influencers
A lot of Instagram influencers are making particular recommendations to their followers after the announcement of planned changes to the feed, so 4Ps decided to look into the situation and see what the real visibility effects are likely to be.
Google Testing Product Images In SERPs (Again?)
Google is well-known for testing different types of listings in organic SERPs so when our SEO Manager for Retail spotted some images in the results he was quick to grab some screenshots.
Google Issuing Structured Data Warnings
Google seems to have run some kind of update or process over the weekend that has resulted in a lot of structured data manual spam action warnings even for genuinely innocent markup errors.
New GTIN Requirements For Google Shopping (PLAs)
Google are introducing changed GTIN requirements for Product Listing Ads - make sure that your feeds are up to date so your ads are not disrupted.
Google Confirms Highest Ranking Factors
A Google rep has publicly named the two highest ranking factors on Google in response to a direct question. Spoiler alert: there were no surprises.
Big Brand Bike SEO During Moto GP #4PsEye
#4PsEye takes a look at some of the big brands taking part in Moto GP to see if they are making the most of this event to bolster their footprint and brand image in organic search results.
Jamie Oliver Content Driven SEO Campaign
4Ps' content-driven SEO campaign approach has led to consistently impressive year on year growth for recipe and food publisher Jamie Oliver.
Google Pushes Back On Bloggers Reviewing Products
Google now says that bloggers receiving products to review need to ensure they are being transparent to users and to search engines.
Sapphire Systems USA Website Launch
Global business software solutions provider Sapphire Systems was struggling to gain organic search traction in US markets, so asked 4Ps to help their SEO take off in the USA.
The Children's Society Google Grants PPC For Tough 'N' Buff
The Children's Society were having problems bidding on desirable awareness terms and seeing low PPC conversions for their Google Grants campaign, so the 4Ps Third Sector team stepped in to help.
The Importance Of Happy Staff At 4Ps
4Ps HR manager Gemma Reilly talks about the company mission and the importance of people and their happiness, which has been at the core of the business since the beginning.
Google Ads SERP Update - SEO Impact
The update to Google SERPs which removes all sidebar ads and gives paid bidders a fourth space at the top of SERPs doesn't just affect PPC. Read about the SEO impact.
Saying Goodbye to Sidebar Ads
Google's recent SERP update removes all the sidebar ads and allows for a fourth at the top. But what does this mean for brands' paid search strategies?
Luke Knight On Leadership
Our very own Luke Knight – Head of Client Strategy – was recently selected as one of The Leadership Trust's Forty Future Leaders. We sat down with him to get his perspectives on leadership.
Going International With Marks & Spencer
With the new Australia and NZ website for M&S making industry headlines, 4Ps looks at the international technical SEO setup for this classic British brand.
Google, One Month Into 2016
January 2016 has been a busy month for Google and the search marketing world, with core algorithm updates and a slew of rumours - luckily 4Ps is here to help make sense of it all.
Third Sector Digital Breakfast – Digital Confessions
Charities shared their #DigitalConfessions at our Third Sector Breakfast to discuss some New Years' resolutions for their brands - here's what came out of the woodwork.
Paid Search & Digital Advertising Predictions For 2016
The paid search marketing team at 4Ps weigh in with their review of 2015 and how they think the world of PPC and digital advertising will develop in 2016.
Data & Analytics Predictions For 2016
The data insights and analytics experts at 4Ps weigh in with their thoughts on the directions that measurement and analysis are likely to take in 2016.
Content Marketing Predictions for 2016
The 4Ps content team share their predictions for where content marketing is headed in 2016.
Search Marketing: From 2015 To 2016
The team at 4Ps reminisce over the year gone by and share thoughts and opinions on the ever-evolving world of search marketing, including where we think it might be going in 2016 and beyond.
Christmas Gifts Top Spots In SERPs: SEO Analysis By #4PsEye
#4PsEye looks at the top SEO performers for "Christmas gifts" and discusses strengths, weaknesses and what everyone can learn from these landing pages.
Cyber Weekend – The Insights
The retail team at 4Ps shares their insights and key takeaways from 2015's shopping spree Cyber Weekend and compare with performance last year.
Getting Mobile In The Outdoors #4PsEye
#4PsEye stepped outdoors for some fresh air and a look at three major leisure retailers to see how they compared on mobile Google visibility and what major SEO factors were at play.
WGSN PPC Account Restructure
4Ps were tasked with improving WGSN's global PPC activity - with a granular approach to our campaigns we saw a higher number of leads at a lower cost.
SPANA Google Grants PPC Overhaul
Animal charity SPANA found their Google Grants PPC spend getting a lot of exposure but resulting in few to no useful conversions on their website, so they asked the 4Ps Third Sector team to step in and help.
Econsultancy's "Disputed SEO Myths" – A Rebuttal
Econsultancy talks about three ranking factor myths that "SEOs cannot agree on." 4Ps discussed this at our weekly Waffle Wednesday - and would like to offer something of a rebuttal.
Lay & Wheeler PPC Account Restructure
Lay & Wheeler's PPC account was driving low relevance traffic at high CPCs - until the 4Ps paid search team arrived on the scene.
Mead Johnson Social Insights
4Ps analysts used data to identify clear objectives and the best methodologies to achieve them on social media for Mead Johnson Nutrition.
Back To The Future (Of Search) In 2016 & Beyond
The opening talk at Digital EDGEucation this October was led by 4Ps' Digital Director and discussed the past and future of search and search marketing.
Advancing Your Paid Search Strategies
At Digital EDGE in Autumn 2015, 4Ps' Head of Paid Search talked about how marketers can use various paid mediums for well-rounded digital advertising to suit each of their business goals.
From Fear To Opportunity With Website Relaunches
Launching a website can be a scary time but if you know the right measures to take to minimise potential losses you can also look upon it as an enormous opportunity to make some great improvements.
Preparing For The Next Google Algorithm Update
Worried about the pre-emptive rumblings of another round of Google algorithm updates in Q3 2015? Here's a quick sitrep from 4Ps to help keep you on track.
Co-Occurrence In Action With Lindt Content & SEO
A great example of modern organic search algorithms in the wild with this case study of co-occurrence in action, courtesy of Lindt's content & SEO campaign.
Charity Dodgeball Tournament
The 4Ps team is hosting a Charity Dodgeball Tournament for their staff and clients to raise money for the 4Ps charity of the year, Bloodwise.
Digital EDGEucation 2015 : Autumn Edition
4Ps Marketing's Digital EDGEucation conference this Autumn featured a range of talks on the past, present and future of digital marketing.
Digital Bytes August 2015
The latest search news with SEO, PPC, Analytics and Content Marketing updates in August 2015 that the 4Ps team think you should be aware of:
4Ps Event: Augmented Reality in Search
The 4Ps' Education and Professional Services team is hosting a meet up on the 2nd September to discuss how augmented reality will impact search.
Jeff Mainwood Finalist in YDLA Awards 2015
4Ps is proud of Jeff Mainwood for being a finalist in this year's YDLA 2015 awards as Strategy Consultant of the Year.
SilverDoor Serviced Apartments Site Relaunch
SilverDoor Serviced Apartments asked 4Ps to assist in the launch of their new responsive website to help preserve traffic and set up a platform for future organic growth through search.
Digital Bytes July 2015
The latest search news with SEO & PPC updates in May 2015 that the 4Ps team think you should be aware of.
Building and Maintaining New Digital Audiences For Third Sector
Highlights of the Third Sector Breakfast on 23rd July 2015, discussing building and maintaining new digital audiences.
The 4Ps Team Raise Money for the Nepal Earthquake Appeal
The 4Ps team hosted a bake sale to help raise money for the Nepal Earthquake Appeal on behalf of charity Childreach.
Corporate Social Responsibility: Why It's Important For Your Brand
Why ensuring you have a strong corporate social responsibility programme is important for your brand.
Search User Experience and an Introduction to Hotjar
Gerard Cadiach, Head of User Experience, looks at how we need to think about user experience from the beginning of the search journey right through to conversion and beyond.
Digital Bytes June 2015
The latest search news with SEO & PPC updates in June 2015 that the 4Ps team think you should be aware of:
4Ps Becomes Google Analytics Certified Partner
The 4Ps team are very happy, proud and excited to be named Google Analytics Certified Partners after a vigorous application process.
4Ps Makes It Into The Top 100 Digital Agencies List
4Ps has made their debut into Econsultancy's Top 100 Digital Agencies 2015 List
Bite-Sized SEO With Healthy Snack Box Subscriptions #4PsEye
#4PsEye and the Food & Drink team assess the market for healthy subscription snack boxes & how their offsite and onsite SEO is performing.
Technical SEO For Cancer Charities #4PsEye
#4PsEye takes a look at two of the UK's leading cancer charities to see how they are integrating onsite technical SEO into their digital strategy.
The Tortoise and the Hare – Blogger Outreach in 2015
4Ps' Sally Gurteen revisits her "How To Win Bloggers And Influence People" series to talk about how blogger outreach has changed for 2015 and what makes for a successful and influential online content partnership today.
Digital Bytes May 2015
The latest search news with SEO & PPC updates in May 2015 that the 4Ps team think you should be aware of.
RAR Digital Awards 2015
4Ps have been shortlisted in the Recommended Agencies Register (RAR) Digital Awards 2015 in six categories!
Preowned Luxury Watches In Digital #4PsEye
#4PsEye takes a look at the SEO potential of some pre-owned luxury watch retailers to see who comes out on top.
Seven Seas Worldwide Website Relaunch
This international shipping company asked 4Ps for help with making their new website as search friendly and analytics capable as it could be.
4Ps & YOTEL Finalists in The Drum Search Awards 2015
4Ps are finalists in The Drum Search Awards 2015 for their innovative PPC campaigns for the international affordable luxury hotel group.
4Ps Award Wins In 2015
In case you've lost track (we nearly did!), here's a summary of all the awards 4Ps have raked in alongside our clients in 2015!
International Search Marketing At 4Ps
4Ps Marketing is an international search agency, and we're expanding into more and more countries and territories with our clients in 2015.
The Importance of a Happy Client
Two years ago, the team at 4Ps began using The Happiness Index to gauge the sentiment of their staff and clients in terms of how satisfied, or 'happy' they are with 4Ps as an employer / service.
Yes, The Mobilepocalypse Is Coming: Everyone Please Calm Down
4Ps' Organic Search Manager, Ruth Attwood, despairs over the unnecessary hysteria, arm waving and hair-tearing that is growing in advance of Google's mobile UX algo update due on April 21st 2015.
Women In Search Awards
Our very own Serena Wong has been shortlisted for The Drum's Women in Search Award, for the most creative and innovative women in search.
FedEx to Buy TNT – A Hidden Message For Search
Rumour has it FedEx are buying TNT, but #4PsEye was drawn to a more interesting nugget in the BBC article and what brands could learn from it when it comes to their search presence...
CSR at 4Ps Marketing
The 4Ps team take great pride in the work they do in the local community, for our charity of the year, the wider community and the things our staff are passionate about.
Independent Agency Census 2015
4Ps have been shortlisted for The Drum's Independent Agency Census 2015. Thank you to everyone who voted for us!
4Ps Speak at Amplience Customer Day
Matt Stannard, our Head of Analytics and Technology, spoke at the Amplience Customer Day on Thursday 5th March 2015.
4Ps Digital Bytes February 2015
The February 2015 edition of Digital Bytes - search updates, news and events.
Google Introducing Mobile UX As A Ranking Factor
Google have announced that mobile-friendly sites with a good user experience will benefit from higher visibility on mobile searches as UX will become a mobile ranking factor. 4Ps' Organic Search Manager, Ruth Attwood, gloats shamelessly.
4Ps Sponsor SheerB2B 2015
4Ps Marketing will be speaking at SheerB2B in May 2015 - the Annual B2B eCommerce Conference from Sheerluxe.com
4Ps Sponsor Digital Cream 2015
4Ps will be taking part in Econsultancy's Digital Cream 2015 on the 25th March, London
How To Use Paid Search For Brand Awareness
Marcus and Tammy talk us through the use of paid search to boost brand awareness rather than focusing purely on last click conversion.
Google Wildlife SEO Safari
Trying to figure out how the Google zoo of algorithms and updates impacts your SEO plans is a task and a half, so at 4Ps' Digital EDGEucation event our Organic Search Manager Ruth Attwood took our guests on a little organic search safari...
Understanding Modern Day Search
Matt Delaforce takes us through modern day search and how the user journey and experience has evolved into an awareness to consideration to conversion funnel.
Sitelink Search Semantic Markup Revisited
Since Google introduced the new sitelink search in SERPs we've been experimenting with the markup to help our clients defend their brand traffic from competitors' PPC ads as best they can, which has led to us updating our recommendations.
How To Make The Most Of The Knowledge Graph
Kristi and Rowan discuss the latest updates on the Knowledge Graph and the various features available to ensure brands get the right information on the search engine results page.
Lindt & Sprüngli UK Website Relaunch
Master Chocolatiers Lindt & Sprüngli asked 4Ps to provide SEO and analytics consultancy on their UK website launch to help preserve and grow organic visibility.
Digital EDGEucation 2015
We really enjoyed welcoming you to our annual conference, Digital EDGEucation 2015.
8 Top New Years Tips for SEO in 2015
The 4Ps team come together in the dawn of the new year to discuss their 8 Top Tips for SEO in 2015.
4Ps Marketing featured in The Apprentice Final 2014
The 4Ps team were featured in The Apprentice Final 2014; Matthew Phelan and Kia McSween were asking questions to the candidates on their business plans.
APH Community Content Hub
APH wanted to kick-start their visibility and organic market share for some high competition terms in their vertical, so 4Ps helped them build out their onsite content strategy from a basic blog to a broader airport travel hub.
4Ps Award Wins In 2014
In case you've lost track (we nearly did!), here's a summary of all the awards 4Ps have raked in alongside our clients in 2014!
Why 503 Should Have Been Your Favourite Black Friday Number
How well did major UK retail brands hold up under the barrage of consumer traffic on Black Friday? Some won with agility, while many lost out as servers collapsed under the load. And why should 503 have been your favourite number on the day itself?
4Ps Digital Bytes November 2014
The November 2014 edition of Digital Bytes - search updates, news and events.
B2B Marketing's 70 B2B Agencies League Table 2014
4Ps Marketing has been featured in the B2B Marketing Top 70 B2B Agencies League Table 2014.
4Ps Winners in The Drum Network Awards 2014
The 4Ps Management Board and Office Manager have been shortlisted for two awards in The Drum Network Awards 2014.
The Ho-Ho-Hype of Christmas TV Advertising
How does search give more exposure for companies in the run up to Christmas, and how does the inevitable Christmas TV advertising contribute?
4Ps Digital Bytes October 2014
The October 2014 edition of Digital Bytes - search updates, news and events.
Enhanced Ecommerce – A Customer's Perspective
Our Insights Consultant Emma Haslam takes a look at the new Google Analytics Enhanced Ecommerce tracking and how it can help track and understand true customer behaviour.
4Ps and Google's Breakfast Briefing
Speakers: Matt Stannard, 4Ps Marketing | Google
Where: Google, UK | 1-13 St. Giles Street, London
When: November 5, 2014 | 09:00- 12:00
Managing A Successful Web Launch For Search | Digital In Kent
Speaker: Ruth Attwood, Advanced Search Consultant, 4Ps Marketing
Where: Canterbury, UK | Spitfire St Lawrence Ground, Canterbury
When: November 6, 2014 | 3:30pm-4:00pm
Universal Analytics and Showroom Behaviour
Matt Stannard talks about offline analytics for showrooms and how brands need to adjust their thinking in order to get the best results from new technology.
Econsultancy's Marketing Cycle 2014 – London to Paris
Luke Knight and Matt Delaforce from 4Ps have completed Econsultancy's Marketing Cycle 2014 - London to Paris cycle ride on the 9th - 12th October 2014.
Customer Experience In An Omnichannel World
Alice Jackson from the 4Ps planning team discusses the fusion of fashion and digital and how this reflects on a customer's experience through their entire journey with a brand.
Return Of The Panda – Google Panda 4.1
Google has announced that the latest version of the Panda update has been released - Panda 4.1. Worried about the potential impact on your brand? Have a read.
Sitelink Search Markup For Google SERPs
4Ps looks at the core semantic markup needed to avoid ads stealing your brand clicks by integrating your SERP sitelinks search bar with your onsite search.
Evolution or Extinction: Survive and Thrive with New Google Analytics Features
Speaker: Matt Stannard, Head of Analytics and Technology, 4Ps Marketing
Where: Boston, USA | Seaport World Trade Center
When: October 6-7, 2014 | 1:20pm-2:10pm
Google Removes Authorship From SERPs
Google has announced the end of authorship results being shown in SERPs - but what does that really mean for this aspect of search marketing?
The Drum's Digital Census 2014
The results are in for the Drum's 2014 Digital Census awards, and 4Ps have been ranked No. 1 by our industry peers.
Conversion Rate Optimisation
Understanding your measurement plan and analytics figures can offer real insights to benefit conversion rate optimisation on your website. 4Ps discusses how.
Colebrook Bosson Saunders SEO Campaign
Colebrook Bosson Saunders and 4Ps worked together to improve their search visibility online and minimise their post-migration traffic loss.
LFW: What does the changing behaviour of luxury retailers mean for search?
Samantha Osborne discusses how user behaviour is shaping the search strategies of luxury retailers during London Fashion Week and beyond.
4Ps London to Canterbury Charity Cycle Ride
The 4Ps team took part in a cycle ride from London to Canterbury to raise money for a great cause!
4Ps Thrives in The Drum's Top 50 in Search 2014
The Drum's list of the most influential individuals in Search 2014 is out, and 4Ps has been featured not once, but twice.
Maximise Revenue By Filtering Customer Data In Analytics
Do you know the real story your data is telling you, or are you still stuck reading a fairytale? Insights Consultant Emma Haslam spoke about the subject at Brighton SEO 2014.
Google Pigeon – Local Search, Evolved
Google Pigeon is already making a big splash - 4Ps looks at the key reported effects and advises what you need to do to Pigeon-proof your local search.
HTTPS As An SEO Signal
Should you be moving to HTTPS now to help your SEO? 4Ps weighs in on the new Google change.
Search Marketing For Children's Swimwear After July #4PsEye
#4PsEye and the Fashion & Beauty Team look at kids' swimwear search visibility during the school holidays for three different brands in the eCommerce space.
SPANA Paid Search Integrated Campaign
In March 2013, SPANA invested in a new Facebook app, the SPANA vet's backpack, to be placed on both their Facebook page and website. 4Ps Marketing was responsible for the design, creation, development, implementation and promotion of the app.
BareMinerals Paid Search
BareMinerals wanted an integrated digital advertising strategy to raise revenue and brand awareness. We combined PPC, display, real-time bidding, dynamic retargeting, social media and video advertising, with some impressive results.
Dolce Hotels & Resorts Paid Search
4Ps developed a cohesive paid search campaign tailored to the specific target market and positioning Dolce Hotels & Resorts as an authority in the hospitality sector.
The Studios Islington Search Strategy
4Ps were approached by The Studios Islington to create an integrated search, social and content strategy to grow their number of occupied property units.
Argento Jewellery Content Marketing Christmas Campaign
In order to penetrate the UK market Argento Jewellery, an Ireland-based fashion and fine jewellery brand, have been working with 4Ps over the Christmas retail period 2013 in order to grow their online revenue.
Kaplan Holborn College Integrated Search Campaign
Kaplan Holborn College hired 4Ps Marketing to put together a combined SEO and digital advertising strategy comprising of on-site and off-site SEO, search and retargeting campaigns.
Utilising Google My Business For Local Search
Google 'My Business' is a new and improved tool for small businesses that combines Google Places and Google+ Local to allow business owners to access a variety of different Google products and tools for local SEO all from one handy streamlined page.
Death To The "Quick Win" In Blogger Outreach
Sally Gurteen talks blogger outreach, content strategy and playing the long game for the best results.
Google's New Site Move Guidelines
Ruth Attwood explains why Google's New Site Guidelines for launches and migrations is just the tip of the iceberg.
The Drum's Digerati – Influential Individuals in Search shortlist is out
Can you help Chris and Matt reach the top 50 Digerati?
New .uk and Other gTLDs – Good or Bad for Search?
We offer our opinion on whether the new gTLDs are a good move or not.
Reporting Audits & Data Context (In Digital & Beyond)
Emma Haslam highlights the importance of reviewing your data, reporting and how useful this really is for your business.
Response to Matt Phelan's Open Letter To The Management Board
Matt Phelan originally wrote an open letter to the 4Ps Management Board regarding philanthropic time off for all members of the 4Ps team... here's the response!
Shortlisted For The RAR Digital Awards 2014
4Ps were shortlisted in the Recommended Agencies Register (RAR) Digital Awards 2014.
Independent Agencies Census in 2014 – Standing Out From The Crowd
When you are searching for something new, it is highly unlikely that you have a choice of one...
What Do Bloggers Say Makes Good Content?
We asked three of our favourite content partners to answer the proverbial million dollar question: "What makes good content?"
Integrated Search at Digital Cream 2014
4Ps talks about the integration of search marketing across other channels and strategies at Digital Cream 2014.
We're Excited – Universal Analytics Is Out Of Beta!
Matt Stannard, the Head of Technology at 4Ps, discusses the new Universal Analytics features and why this is an exciting change for Google Analytics users.
Google "Not Provided" For Paid Search
Google have released an article regarding extending their efforts to keep search secure by removing the search query tracking, but what does this actually mean? Serena Wong explains.
4Ps Ski Summit: The Countdown Begins
The countdown is starting to the first ever 4Ps ski summit being held in the Alps this April. Follow online with #4PsSummit and we'll see you on the slopes!
Do Google Manual Penalties Benefit The User?
Google's manual penalties have become the stuff of SEO legend and brand nightmare, but when they cause websites to drop out of the SERPs altogether is this really beneficial for the average user?
Taking Offline Mentality To Online Strategy With Staples #4PsEye
Whilst Staples looks at closing a few stores worldwide, #4PsEye look at their current digital platform to see how they could be doing digital better.
Car Rental SEO Winners #4PsEye
#4PsEye takes a look at three car rental businesses operating in the UK and review their onsite SEO to see how visible they really are.
B2B Lead Generation in 2014
Nick Miller from 4Ps client Kaplan discusses B2B lead generation in 2014 and how businesses need to keep up with changing user behaviour in order to remain ahead of competitors
How to Master the Art of Strategy
The fourth part of our How to Win Bloggers and Influence People series discusses the important of a cohesive strategy for your entire brand.
Strategic Planning for Search Seasonality
How do you ensure that your message is being effectively distributed to your target audience in the right place and at the right time, all year round?
Online Consumer Banking, Evolved: The New Nationwide Website #4PsEye
#4PsEye and the Professional Services team takes a look into the quality of the design and onsite SEO of the new Nationwide website.
Advanced Digital Advertising For B2B
Rob Laver, 4Ps' Head of Business, talks about the key strategies needed to take your digital advertising for B2B to the next level.
Implementing an Effective Content Strategy
The arrival of Google's Penguin, Panda and Hummingbird updates brought a change in the landscape of digital marketing and content strategy.
Food Bloggers – Eat, Pray, Blog
The 4Ps leisure and lifestyle team meets up with some of their favourite culinary bloggers to discuss food, drink, blogging, recipes and what else gets their mouths watering.
Hummingbird & Semantic Search for B2B
What is semantic search, and how will it influence the way the B2B sector searches and markets?
Why an SEO Audit is Essential to Your Marketing Strategy
Turn performance barriers into opportunities by identifying them through a thorough a detailed SEO audit as part of your marketing strategy.
Business Blogging: How Effective Is It?
4Ps discuss the benefits of business blogging at the 2014 Digital EDGEucation conference.
Building a Business Case For Search
How, and why should businesses be focusing on search? How important is search, really?
How to Engage an Audience Through Bloggers
It's not just about finding the right people, but also about how your brand talks to them.
Digital EDGEucation Conference 2014
It's that time of year again when 4Ps Marketing joins forces with the best people in search at The IPA for our very own Digital EDGEucation conference.
Into Me See: Brand Awareness, Authority and Big Bucks
How much of the conversation should your brand be owning? Simple. All of it.
Technical SEO On The New Marks & Spencer Website #4PsEye
Have M&S ticked all the boxes for organic potential or is the beauty of the redesign only skin deep? #4PsEye takes a look...
Travel Bloggers In A Not So Lonely Planet
We asked our top 5 travel bloggers what got them ticking to write in the first place and why do they, as much as us, thrive on sharing their passions digitally?
How to Win Bloggers and Influence People
With the release of Google's Penguin and Hummingbird updates, how important is offsite content and how can you work well with bloggers and influencers?
Matt Phelan On Coffee Dates, And His Ode To 2014
I can sum up 2013 in two very boring words "A Platform"... however boring a word, 2013 has actually set things up quite nicely for 2014.
Web Analytics 2014
Matt Stannard discusses key search developments in 2013 and how they have really set some good foundations for web analytics changes in 2014.
B2B and Education Search Marketing in 2014
How will B2B and education search marketing change in 2014 - will it become more focused on user intent, content and long tail search?
Predictions for Food Marketing in 2014
Its not just about the numbers and quality of visits any more! Find out the sector needs to be aware of for food marketing in 2014.
Predictions for Travel Marketing in 2014
2013 was a busy and challenging year for the sector, and 2014 looks to be just as busy in the world of travel marketing.
Social and Content Marketing 2014
Content and social have become a huge element of any marketing mix, but there are many factors to consider in making content marketing work for your business.
Plurality and User Intent in Search
How does Hummingbird's conversational approach to search actually work in the real world?
A Lesson In Competitor Analysis From Debenhams #4PsEye
#4PsEye takes a look at the Debenhams website to discuss why they had a less than merry Christmas this year.
Search in 2014
How is search marketing going to evolve and change in 2014 in order to keep up with changing trends in advertising and user behaviour?
How Higher Education Providers Can Use Search In Student Acquisition
With an increased range of courses and institutions to attend, how can higher education providers stay ahead of the game with search marketing?
Travolution Round Up – Travel Marketing In 2014
The 4Ps travel team offers their thoughts the Travolution Summit 2014 for marketing and summarises the key points that travel marketers should be aware of.
Sweaty Betty Transition To Universal Analytics
4Ps helped women's fitness retailer Sweaty Betty to transition to Google Universal Analytics and enable greater transparency of website performance across the business.
Movember Men's Products #4PsEye
In the spirit of Movember nearing its end, #4PsEye thought we'd have a look at a small selection of men's grooming brands to see how they fare on their SEO.
What are the New gTLDs?
4Ps discusses the new generic top level domains (gTLDs) available and whether or not they are a good investment for businesses and search marketing.
Christmas Retailers: Hamleys vs Toys 'R Us #4PsEye
#4PsEye take a look at the Christmas SEO strategies of Toys 'R Us and Hamleys online to see how they're measuring up this season.
B2B Data Company Digital Strategy
4Ps have been working with a leading B2B data company to relaunch their website and improve the efficiency of paid digital advertising campaigns.
Online University Search Marketing
A leading university approached 4Ps for assistance in growing the volume of leads for its distance learning courses that were available online.
Bonfires, Fireworks and Digital Marketing
Luke Knight shares his thoughts on bonfires and fireworks and what we can learn about successful digital marketing strategies from this two-pronged approach.
6 PPC Tips for Travel Companies in the Lead Up to Christmas
With competition for travel bookings fierce, you can benefit by optimising your pay-per-click (PPC) advertising campaigns for the festive season.
Mountain Warehouse Migration To Google Universal Analytics
4Ps helped outdoor retailer Mountain Warehouse to boost year on year transactions and revenue with insights derived from improved Universal Analytics tracking.
Ad Hoc Property Management Search Marketing
Ad Hoc Property wanted to increase awareness of their unusual property management services to both prospective tenants and landlords while also boosting relevant traffic to their website.
GreenAcres Woodland Burials Search Marketing
4Ps worked with GreenAcres Woodland Burials on a multi-channel digital strategy to consolidate four different domains into one and drive growth for the business.
Integrated SEO
Why integration in SEO is so important and how can you stay ahead of the game with your search and digital marketing strategies to get the best results for your business.
Google Encrypted Search Update
What does Google's announcement on encrypted search actually mean for your business? We lay out the nature of the change and why you should care about its implications.
Oxfam's Head Of Digital Twitter Q+A Session
Sarah Jordan, Head of Digital at Oxfam, joined us on Twitter for a special #4PsHike Q&A session to discuss social media and digital marketing in the third sector.
Google Keyword Planner – Pros and Cons
Google's long-serving Keyword Tool has now been replaced with the new Keyword Planner. But is it any good, and is it as useful for PPC and SEO?
How Newspapers Can Drive Sales With SEO
Ultimately, SEO is all about driving traffic and growing brand visibility online, so how does organic search marketing work for online newspapers?
Content Marketing for Professional Services
Is there a valid reason to invest in content marketing for professional services organisations? The simple answer is "yes," but how does this theory work in the real world?
Aubaine Local PPC Restaurant Bookings
Sophisticated restaurant chain Aubaine wanted to boost brand awareness and increase online reservations made via their website, and came to 4Ps for help.
#4PsEye On Holland & Barrett
How search friendly is the Holland and Barrett website? #4PsEye finds out with a poke around and a little onsite SEO review.
The Rise of the Travel Itinerary
Find out how an increase in search behaviour for holiday prep and travel itinerary affects tour operators and holiday providers (and their marketing) today.
GrowthAccelerator Multi Channel Campaign
When government initiative GrowthAccelerator wanted to invest in a broadly scoped promotion campaign, they came to 4Ps to head up the digital advertising.
What Does Integrated Really Mean?
Find out why we have changed the way we do business, and why you too should embrace an integrated marketing approach for your brand.
Digital Marketing vs. Traditional Marketing
Chris Hyland talks pros and cons of digital vs traditional marketing techniques on Marketing Week Live's discussion panel.
Good, the Bad and the Ugly of Digital Marketing
We find out the good, the bad and the ugly of digital marketing in the last year according to experts and those active in the industry.
Karndean Flooring Organic Strategy
International luxury flooring company Karndean came to 4Ps for assistance with a site migration to help improve their organic performance.
What is Penguin 2.0?
Hannah Miller outlines what Penguin 2.0 means to your SEO and why it is critical to understand its effects in order to further your search marketing strategy.
Yale Digital PR & SEO
Home security specialists Yale wanted to ensure a successful launch of their new website so called on 4Ps for appropriate SEO guidance and digital PR work.
The Penguin Impact On The Travel Industry
Learn why Penguin may have a negative impact on your travel or tour operator site in this in-depth discussion by Charlie Kay at 4Ps.
STA Travel Organic Potential Evaluation By #4PsEye
The nosy #4PsEye team takes a look at STA Travel for organic visibility, SEO potential, offsite and social profile, and onsite conversion pain points.
SPANA Mali Charity Campaign
SPANA has been helping with working animals in Mali for decades and asked 4Ps to help give their campaign for the area a digital boost.
The Financial Year Impact On Digital Marketing
As budgets are being devised for the new financial year, marketing managers will need to see proven results from their strategy and activity.
Audience Targeting Through Keywords
We discuss the importance of tailoring your keywords so that you can place your business in front of the right audience at the right time for the right results.
Using Google Analytics to Capture Votes
Matt Stannard talks through how he used real time Google Analytics in order to capture votes on an HTML form at his interactive analytics talk.
Targeting Influencers For Brand Objectives
Learn how to navigate the sea of online influencers in order to maximise the impacts of your strategy and target the right influencers that will assist your brand.
A Basic Guide to Tumblr SEO
Get the most out of your interactive blogging experience on this dynamic platform with our quick and easy basic guide to Tumblr SEO.
Content Doesn't Just Have to be a Blog
4Ps discusses the importance of unique, relevant, media-rich content and why you don't need to limit your brand to just thinking about a blog.
Website Re-launch: Using Screaming Frog
Managing your technical SEO carefully is imperative for a successful website launch or relaunch - we've put together a guide on how Screaming Frog can help.
The Growth of Real Time Bidding
We take a look at the rising number of ad exchanges for real time bidding and discuss the impacts they are having on the digital advertising industry.
Mobile Marketing 2013 – Media Integration
We take a look at how mobile and device-led strategy fits in within a wider media plan, meaning it can effectively target specific users while still staying on-brand.
Personal Search and Your Search Bubble
Find out how search engines are increasingly tailoring their results to user search behaviour, resulting in a personalised search "bubble" on Google.
The Evolution of Marketing
We discuss how to evolve your digital marketing past the recurring on and offline traps that can hinder the growth of your business.
Google Shopping Update
We find out more about the new update as Google Shopping moves into more of a commercial model, built on the new foundation of Product Listing Ads or PLAs.
Using Content to Increase Brand Awareness
4Ps takes a look at some of the best ways that brands can and have successfully used content to raise general awareness with the consumer audience.
Our Guide to Producing Creative B2B Content
We offer the building blocks for appealing, innovative and inspiring B2B content - remember that not operating in a consumer-led field is no excuse for your brand publishing boring content!
Mobile Marketing Trends For 2013
4Ps discusses key predictions for device driven growth in mobile marketing in 2013 and what this will mean for forward-thinking brands.
An In-Depth Guide To Building AuthorRank
We discuss AuthorRank; what it is, why you need it, and why brands should be considering it as an increasingly important part of their organic search and content strategies.
Social Media For Building Brand Awareness
Luke Knight talks about how marketers can better use social media to build up brand awareness and engagement in order to benefit their business objectives.
Tracking Custom 404 Pages In Google Analytics
Matt Stannard, our Head of Analytics and Technology, offers some tips on how to track custom 404 pages within Google Analytics.
Facebook Graph Search
Facebook have finally decided to move into the search landscape with their new Graph Search - but what are the implications for brands on the platform?
Optimising for Siri
Kia McSween discusses her tips for optimising for Siri, and what that actually means in the real world of brands and search marketing strategies.
The Complete Guide to Content Distribution
Find out how to reach and engage the right audiences with the 4Ps complete guide to content distribution for brands and publishers.
SEO and Social Predictions for 2013
A collection of the biggest and most important SEO and social media predictions for 2013 from search marketing team at 4Ps.
Multi-Channel Funnels in Google Analytics
4Ps discusses how to measure ROI and attribution from social media investment using multi-channel funnels reporting within Google Analytics.
International Search Considerations
Hannah Miller discusses some key considerations in crafting an an international search strategy to take your brand offering out into the global marketplace.
International SEO
For businesses big and small international expansion is becoming more attractive, so what are the steps to take if your brand wants to invest in international SEO?
Tracking Customer Journeys In Universal Analytics
Matt Stannard sums up the advantages of Universal Analytics' capabilities and highlights the importance of tracking the full user journey.
Social Media for 2013
Will we see a continual rise in the use of creative content, mobile and an increased ability to measure and provide significant ROI on social media in 2013?
Developing Your Digital Strategy For 2013
Technology has often been seen as the catalyst that can innovate digital marketing strategies, so what is coming up that can inform brands for 2013?
SEO in 2013
Hannah Miller discusses what she thinks will be integral to sustainable SEO in 2013 and which new developments brands should be the most eager to embrace.
A Review of Marketing in 2012
As developments in digital marketing progress so do the number of opportunities to take advantage of brand building and audience engagement.
Is Facebook Biting the Hand That Feeds It?
Find out more about why Facebook has quietly changed one of its key algorithms, the "EdgeRank" algorithm, and what it means for brands on the platform.
3 Men, 1 Mountain Digital Conference
On the 5th October 2012, 4Ps Marketing embarked on another mission: to host the first ever digital marketing conference from the top of Ben Nevis, to prove their love of all things digital.
Joining The Big Data Revolution
4Ps Marketing talks big data, analytics, and cutting through all the noise and hype to actually make the most of this trend for the benefit of your business.
Top Seven places to find Google Easter Eggs
We all know Google works hard to try to provide users with the best search results on the net. However, it's not just the straightforward searches they help with...
The Importance Of Campaign Planning
4Ps disusses campaign planning, and how vital it can be to distinguish a mediocre marketing campaign from an excellent one, regardless of channels and sectors.
Lindt eCommerce Marketing
Lindt came to 4Ps in 2011 to integrate advertising with offline marketing in order to bring customers onboard and grow revenue on their new eCommerce store.
Semantic Search, Siri and What it Means for SEO
We delve into what semantic and voice search on conversational engines like Siri actually means for the search industry and for real world users.
Should I Quit Facebook?
Matt Phelan discusses the trials and tribulations of owning a profile on the worlds largest social platform, and wonders if there's another way.
Update on 3 Men, 1 Mountain
To add an extra twist, we have been set personal missions. My personal mission is to get one person who achieved a medal at the London Olympics to attend. Not easy…
Targeting the Russian Market and Yandex
With the figures at hand, it's difficult not to see a huge opportunity in the Russian digital market. Account Director Michelle Athersmith talks about Yandex SEO and Russian search marketing.
Is a Link's Age a Ranking Factor?
Hannah Miller discusses the for and against of whether the age of a link is a relevant ranking factor for offsite SEO purposes.
What are the Panda and Penguin updates?
We highlight the difference between the Panda and Penguin Google updates and explain what they mean for your search marketing efforts.
Harnessing the Power of the Zeitgeist
The "Should Have Gone To Specsavers" content marketing campaign continues. We discuss how keeping a finger on the cultural pulse of your target market can lead to creative success.
AON Integrated Campaign
AON, one of the UK's largest insurance brokers, wanted to boost awareness of a particular product, improve lead tracking and grow new business leads through a digital campaign.
Matt Phelan On Ten Years In Marketing
Matthew Phelan reflects on the last ten years in marketing, and how things have adapted and changed to create better user experience over the decade.
The Bing Phoenix Update is here
The Bing Phoenix update has been released, and it is an interesting one to say the least.
Post 26th May – What have sites done?
4Ps Marketing have discussed the new EU cookie law by guest blogging on eConsultancy and giving a presentation and panel session at the Association of Online Publishers.
The Importance of Educating Clients about SEO
We thank Google for finally practicing what we have been preaching and letting good overcome evil - here is why educating your clients about SEO is just as important as the SEO itself.
Removing Search Parameters from Google Analytics
Commonly used as a way of conveniently transferring data, we delve a little deeper into how you can manage and remove your search parameters in Google Analytics.
Google Penguin Update
Back in early April 2011 Google rolled out yet another update, the Google Penguin update, that we have all come to know and love. But what exactly does this mean?
Near Match Types For Adwords
4Ps explores what Near Match Types actually are on Adwords, and what they mean for both search engine users and brands advertising with Adwords PPC.
Google Analytics Continues to Get Social
With Google's push towards social tracking and attribution tools, we take a closer look at Google Analytics and how you can keep a closer on your business' social footprint.
EU Cookie Legislation at the AOP
Matt Phelan outlines his key takeaways from the discussion on EU Cookie Legislation, and what this means for websites and brands with a substantial online presence.
SERP Insights and Online Advertising
With being a part of the online marketing world, we often take it for granted that searchers know the difference between an organic search result and an ad, but this often isn't in fact the case.
Air Partner Search Campaign
Air Partner is a world leading air charter company who approached 4Ps Marketing with the aim of significantly increasing their business leads.
Why You Shouldn't Search For Your Own Ads
We discuss the appeal of seeing for yourself how adverts look within a live Google's search page, and the many reasons why this is a very inefficient and inaccurate way of evaluating performance.
Ensure Your SEO Marketing Strategy Includes Mobile
Following these simple steps will help you assess your business and strategy in the mobile space to ensure your marketing isn't leaving mobile users behind.
Adwords Enhanced Sitelinks Explained
Taking advantage of the new Enhanced Sitelinks on Google Adwords is a way to enhance your website's advertised "shop window" to encourage more and better quality clicks. Our PPC team discuss the feature.
SEO in 2022 – The Future Of Search Marketing
Besides the baffling question of how we will actually pronunciate 2022, we have been looking forward to the future technologies that may be developed and how they will impact SEO.
Social Media Mission Accomplished (Sort of…)
Matt Phelan ponders over his latest mission of asking Google to put a link on their homepage that allows users to donate to charity. At least nobody can claim he isn't ambitious!
Social Media In 2012: Forward Planning
Charlie Kay offers her key highlights from social media in 2012 and looks to the future of social platforms and this unique but growing form of digital marketing.
SEO For News Sites And Newspapers
The 4Ps specialist Publishing team takes a look at the best ways to go about good, strategic SEO for newspapers and other news and journalism websites.
Rich Snippets For Software Apps
Gain a competitive advantage by taking over the SERPs with new rich snippets designed specifically to enhance the appearance of software apps in Google search results.
2011 Social Media Review
Due to the vast growth in the number of people participating in social media platforms both brands and agencies have had to adapt in order to stay ahead of the game in 2011.
The Ultimate Guide to Creative Link Building
Creative link building has a lot of opportunities - if you get it right it can deliver results time and time again. Our Director of Consulting, Hannah Miller, discusses some ideas.
Search Review of 2011
We look back at search marketing in 2011 and what a year it has been! How amazing to look back and see how far we have come in such a short space of time.
Nintendo Santa Post-It Note Picture Art
We ponder how to win the office Christmas decoration prize...
Further Guidance on the New PECR Rules
The 4Ps Head of Analytics And Technology summarises changes to the cookie law and offers some best practice tips to help brands make sense of the new rules.
Can Matt Cutts change the world?
Matt Phelan updates on #1Man1Mission and his goal to make Google change the world for the better.
Could Google change the world?
What would happen if Google put a little box on their homepage that would allow people to donate to charity? Matt Phelan returns with #1Man1Mission.
How are you using Attribution models?
With the continued rise in display advertising, social media and CPC, attribution is always a hot topic in and around our office - how are you thinking beyond the last click to conversion?
How to use Foursquare for Business
Find out the why, who and how of Foursquare for business and how it could potentially help your local SEO and geographically targeted marketing overall.
How To Drive Search Traffic To Your Blog
How to use real life experiences and interviews to your advantage in the never-ending quest to drive good quality traffic to the blog on your website.
An SEO guide for Google News
We offer five simple steps for SEO on Google News that will help your news and timely content to perform well in organic search across the SERPs.
SEO Tips for optimising YouTube videos
For those of you who want to engage with audiences using videos it is important to make sure that people can find your content easily, so think before you just upload everything as-is to YouTube.
The new .com bubble – dot brand?
ICANN, the body responsible for coordinating domain names across the globe, put forward a proposal to allow companies to register their own Top Level Domain (TLD), which has been approved.
Link building; beyond the link
Matt Phelan reads up about link building and the future of site authority in SEO to raise some pertinent and increasingly urgent questions at 4Ps.
Mobile SEO 2011
As mobile usage increases, so does the importance of mobile SEO. How are you giving smartphone users access to your website?
Automated Rules: Adwords Made Easy
With pay-per-click (PPC) being such a reactive form of search marketing, Google have finally launched their automated rules system which allows advertisers to be more efficient with their campaigns.
Local SEO and Google Places Optimisation
Towards the end of last year, Google changed the way they ranked and displayed local search results. Knowing how to optimise both your website and Google Places profile can really help your local SEO.
Reciprocal Linking
What is reciprocal linking, why should you care, and how can it be important for SEO and overall visibility for your website and brand if used correctly?
The Impact of Weather on Online Marketing
If you are interested in or carry out e-retailing activity, you will appreciate how much weather influences all online activities from selling, buying and reception to digital marketing styles.
SEO for Website Navigation
Website navigation isn't just critical for users - having a poorly designed site architecture can have serious implications for your SEO as well.
Optimising Retail Mobile Advertising
With mobile advertising on the increase, and Google's Admob receiving 2 billion requests a day, it is becoming critical to tailor PPC optimisation towards mobile specific campaigns.
Director Matt Phelan Discusses Our Shiny New Website
Matt Phelan discusses the reasoning and strategic thought behind the design overhaul, rebrand and changes on the 4Ps website.
Video SEO Tips for YouTube
Ever wondered how to improve your video rankings in search engine results?
A Guide to SEO Copywriting
Writing good quality content for the web goes beyond basic SEO copywriting, keyword placement and appropriate headings - style, tone and being on-brand as well as on-message are critical considerations.
Ethical SEO – Stay Safe (And Clear Of The Google Graveyard)
If you're choosing a search marketing agency for your business, make sure you can tell the difference between safe and ethical SEO for long term growth, and scary SEO tactics that will probably get you dropped from Google altogether.
Social Media and SEO Integration
Social media and SEO are integrating closer than ever as user behaviour evolves in the digital space. 4Ps looks at the overlaps and what this growing trend signifies for search.
Viral Videos and Online Communities
We consider the importance of viral videos and online communities when figuring out your sustainable tactics for organic search engine marketing.
Measuring your SEO Campaign Success
We discuss the importance of measuring success for your SEO campaign - and, more importantly, deciding how exactly you want to define "success" in the first place.
White Hat SEO vs Black Hat SEO
In the world of SEO, it is always a hard tackle for white hat SEO agencies to beat the black hat tactics employed by competition in order to make SEO truly sustainable - but here are some ideas to get you started.
Google Instant – You Don't Even Have To Hit Enter!
After many hints, including a few logo changes and Eric Schmidt announcing ""We are already fast... fast is about to get faster," Google has unveiled its speedy new search engine.
The Robots.txt File Checker
What is the robots.txt file and what is its role on your website? Why is robots.txt so critical to search marketing efforts overall, and SEO in particular?
A Guide to 404 Error Pages
Find out how to avoid annoying your users by adding a custom, friendly 404 page to your website.
Board level appointments at 4Ps Marketing
Back in September 2010, 4Ps appointed some new board advisors, Nick Ayton & Martin Colenutt, to help with the substantial growth of 4Ps Marketing in the future.
An Introduction to Linkbait
We discuss the finer points of linkbait and its potential benefits (and risks) for organic search marketing purposes.
Keyword Analysis Tools for SEO
Outside of the Google Keyword Tool we look at other keyword analysis tools that can help shape and expand your search tactics even further.
SEO Link Building: Essential Strategies
Here is a reminder of some simple SEO content strategies that will help to ensure you are getting the most out of your organic search marketing by earning offsite links to your site.
A Guide to Bounce Rate In SEO Analysis
If you are wondering why your website is not converting the visits to a possible sale or lead, looking at the bounce rate is one of the best ways to start analysing this situation.
"Unsafe" Walking Directions Lead to Another Google Lawsuit
Google's walking directions on its free Maps service are causing raised voices after accusations that they are negligent and unsafe for real-world users.
Google Online Display Ads Reporting
Last year Google released view-through conversion tracking for online display ads, but what does this mean for your display advertising?
Google SSL Search
What is SSL, what does SSL search on Google mean and why should anyone in the marketing world care about this?
Social Management Tips For Twitter
Since Twitter has proven itself to be a useful tool for your search strategy, how do you avoid the marketing pitfalls of this snappy social platform?
Encourage your customers to convert
Don't just draw in additional traffic that doesn't show real value - grow your business bottom line with these five tips for setting up dynamic landing pages.
Improving Page Speed
Find out more about Google's recent announcement on how site performance plays an important role in the overall organic visibility and performance of a web page.
Sitemaps – An Introduction
What are sitemaps? Why are they an essential ingredient for the basics of SEO? How do you handle setting one up and ensuring it does what it needs to?
Bidding On Brand Keywords
Would you be happy if your competitors were receiving traffic from your brand keywords? Might be time to talk about PPC brand bidding.
Google Vs Social Media Advertising
Paid advertising on social media channels can work on many levels and is best in class for laser-targeting to your target market demographic. Is it right for your brand?
Tracking ROI with YouTube Insight
We find out why measurement is key when optimising your Youtube channel and tracking the return on investment for your video marketing.
Site Speed Performance
We find out more about Google's take on site speed performance, and how we can now track this in Webmaster Tools.
Google Offers Publishers Limits On Free News
We ponder as to why Google have capped the number of news articles accessible for free on their search engine.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday: Online Consumer Habits
How big is Cyber Monday and Black Friday, and does it leave e-tailers with a good Saturday and Sunday feeling?
The Different Forms of Social Media and its Impact
If you use the internet frequently, then you have probably heard of the term social media. We get to grips with what this actually means, and the various ways in which you can use its differing formats.
Google Rich Snippets Update
We find out more about Google's commitment to webmasters around the world, and the introduction of rich snippet markup.
SEO and HTML 5
What is the difference between HTML 4 and HTML 5, and why should search marketers care?
SEO Strategies: Transactional vs Branding
Understanding the differences between transactional and branding SEO strategies is essential when assessing the ROI of any search campaign.
Googlebot & Web 2.0
A review of Google's "A Spider's View Of Web 2.0," which makes it clear that putting your users first is the best way for your website to be recognised by the search engine.
Mercedes Follow Orange's "I Am" Campaign
A search-focused look at the 'I Am...' campaigns from Mercedes and Orange, which encourage users to type in a certain query to find them in a busy online marketplace.
The Orange "I Am" Campaign
Matthew Phelan discusses the 'I Am...' campaign from Orange which encouraged users to search for a certain keyword to find them in a busy online market place.
Search and the long tail
Find out about long tail, and how it has a impact on keyword research and on-page optimisation.


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PCS Mobile offers support services in a variety of mediums in conjunction with our various solutions:
Mobile Design
Step by step process, assessment, solutions and recommendations.
Mobile Acquire
Bundle hardware, integration, installation, software and financing.
Mobile Complete
"Complete" integration and installation services
Mobile Academy
Professional training services
Mobile Assurance
Professional Service, on-going support and preventive maintenance.
> Talk to a PCS Mobile Customer Service Rep
> Request a Demo or Pilot
> Get A Quote

subset: commoncrawl


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The Pediatric Sleep Center at Children's Hospital of Georgia in Augusta, Georgia can help children who suffer with insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, teeth grinding, sleep walking, snoring, bed wetting or other childhood sleep disorders.
Pediatric sleep disorders can affect a child's physical, social and academic performance.
Accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, the Medical Center at Augusta University's Pediatrics Sleep Center is one of the few in the Southeast that treats both adults and children from newborns through adolescents.
Don't let sleep problems undermine your child's life. Schedule an online appointment now or call 706-721-KIDS (5437) or toll free at 888-721-KIDS (5437) to speak to a member of our pediatrics sleep disorders team.


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China is a land of many wonders – ancient and modern, natural and man-made. This hugely popular tour is a comprehensive journey through China's most iconic sights from the magnificent Great Wall to the mighty Yangtze River.
SA (1N) - Beijing (3N) - Xian (2N) - Yangtze River Cruise (4N) - Guilin (2N) - Yangshuo (1N) - Shanghai (2N) - SA (1N)
Wander along the incredible Great Wall of China
Come face to face with the Terracotta Warriors
Enjoy 3-nights on the Yangtze for a glimpse of China past and present
Get up close and personal with the Pandas of Chongqing
Absorb the rural serenity of the Li River and Yangshuo
Marvel at the city of Shanghai on a Huangpu River Cruise
If the dates we have available for this tour don't suit your needs, or you are not sure travelling as part of a group is for you, maybe a Private Departure would be more ideal. Based on exactly the same itinerary as the group tour, our Private Departures give you the freedom to choose your own departure date and simply enjoy your holiday with your family, your partner, or your friends. On most Private Departures your tour will be led by an English speaking driver and you will be met by local guides at each site.
If you like most of the itinerary which we have suggested but you'd like to change the route and the accommodation, speak to our specialist Tailormade team, who can build your perfect itinerary based around where you would like to go, what you would like to see and how much you'd like to spend. Just call us on 0800 9884 888 and we'll help plan your dream holiday.
Wendy Wu Tours, inspect all of our hotels to ensure they meet the high levels of service which we require for our guests. If the hotels details below for your tour are not available, hotels of a similar standard will be used.
Located in the Fentai District, the Jiangxi Grand Hotel is close to many of Beijing's sites and attractions. Facilities at the hotel include a restaurant serving Chinese and Western cuisine, a coffee shop, a bar, a tea house and a fitness centre. The 322 rooms and suites are traditionally furnished with air conditioning, satellite television, tea making facilities, a minibar and a safety deposit box.
The Shangri-La Golden Flower Hotel is centrally located in Xian. Classically decorated, the hotel's en-suite rooms include free Wifi, satellite television, air conditioning, tea making facilities and a safety deposit box. The hotel's onsite restaurant serves both Chinese and Western cuisines, and the lobby bar serves hot and cold drinks. An indoor heated pool and fitness centre is also available.
Located in Guilin's city center and opposite the attractive Sun and Moon pagodas, the Lijiang Waterfall Hotel offers luxury rooms equipped with a flat screen satellite television, a minibar, a safety deposit box and a stunning en-suite bathroom with complimentary toiletries. The hotel also boasts an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre. Guests can enjoy Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Western cuisines in the onsite restaurant.
Yangshuo Jasper International Hotel is located a 5 minute complimentary shuttle ride to the centre of Yangshuo's pedestrianised market streets. Each of its 400 air conditioned, modern en-suite rooms include satellite television, safety deposit boxes and tea making facilities. There are 2 onsite restaurants offering local southern Chinese cuisine as well as Western cuisine. The outdoor pool is a highlight.
Located in People's Square, the Mingde Grand Hotel Shanghai is close to the city's main attractions. The modern, stylish rooms with free Wifi, a minibar and a flat screen satellite television. Complimentary toiletries are included in the bathroom. The hotel's onsite restaurant serves both Chinese and international dishes. The hotel also boasts an indoor pool, a spa and a fitness centre.
A visa is required by all nationalities. A single entry visa should be arranged in advance of travel.
Unlike many other tour operators, we include your entry visas in the price of our tour. We handle the entire visa process – all you need to do is fill out the form and send your passport to us. We are always on hand to help you with any questions or queries you might have when completing the form.
Phone Calls
International and domestic calls can be made from your hotel room. To call South Africa the international access code is 00, followed by the country code 27, then the local area code (omitting the first 0), then the number. To call Wendy Wu Tours it is 00 27 10 001 9998. Emergency 24 hour telephone (out of office hours) is 00 27 83 277 4502.
Mobile Phones
Mobile phones are quite popular in China and you will find high quality coverage. China has active roaming agreements with all phone carriers; however SMS and call rates can be expensive. We recommend that you contact your mobile supplier if you intend to use international roaming during your holiday and ensure you investigate all associated costs before you leave South Africa.
Internet & Email
Internet cafes can be found in all major cities and even in some small towns. This is often the easiest and cheapest way to stay in touch. Most hotels have a business centre with internet access, but at a slightly higher rate. Some hotels may have wifi which usually comes at an additional cost and may only be available in hotel lobbies.
Tipping is an expected element in the tourism industry today and China is no exception. Many passengers are often uncertain of how much to tip so we have established a tipping system whereby every passenger gives a set amount (in US Dollars) to the National Escort who will distribute the amount appropriately. On multi-country tips, this amount will be paid in stages on arrival in each country. If there is no National Escort, you will need to give your money to your Local Guides and tipping amounts for each city will be shown in your final itinerary. The amount for the kitty is calculated for each tour depending on the length, group size and services used during the trip.
For independent passengers, or group passengers with pre/post tour arrangements, you should allow USD5-10 per person per day.
We will indicate the tipping amounts in your final documents for guidance.
Shopping can be a fun and entertaining component to any travel adventure, and China has a vast array of shopping opportunities for those who love to seek out a bargain. From hand carved jade to local silk products or pearls from the South China Sea – the variety and choice can seem endless.
In keeping with most people's interests whilst on holiday, your tour will include a reasonable number of opportunities to shop for local goods and souvenirs.
We have included visits to establishments that not only provide an opportunity to purchase a locally produced, great-value souvenir; but you'll witness first-hand how these local products are made, their history and how they support the local economy. We are aware that people like to take home souvenirs, so we endeavour to ensure the shops you visit have a reputation for quality, honesty, and authenticity – we do our best to ensure that you don't get ripped off.
The cost of all meals is included in your group tour cost.
Breakfast is served in the hotel and usually includes western dishes. As is traditional in China, lunch and dinner consists of small dishes of local cuisine which is then placed on a 'Lazy Susan' so you can experience the variety of speciality dishes. In China all the dishes are served in various styles and brought out to the table for everyone to share. The amount served is more than ample for the whole group. We aim to cater to the tastes of the majority of people and so the food is not too spicy or unusual in taste.
Each individual place setting will consist of a bowl of fan (rice), a pair of chopsticks (you may request western cutlery if you prefer), a flat bottomed soup spoon and a saucer. Chinese food is usually served in courses where a typical meal will consist of rice, one to four meat or fish dishes, two vegetable dishes, and one soup dish. Almost all food is cut into bite sized pieces. The centre of the meal is the fan or rice. The meats and vegetables that we think of as the focus of the meal are known as ts'ai, which roughly translates as 'side dishes'. Fish is not always available, particularly outside of the bigger cities.
The Chinese are also not big on desserts with meals normally complemented with fruit to clean and refresh the palate.
Sichuan cuisine is distinguished by its use of ginger, chilli and the 'Sichuan peppercorn' called the fagara. Each meal will usually have some mild dishes but many of the local speciality dishes will be hot. If your group find there are not enough mild dishes served, please inform your National Escort/Local Guide so that they may resolve the problem for the next meal.
If you would like to drink beer, soft drink or bottled water with your meals, payment is to be made directly to the restaurant staff. Beer is traditionally consumed in small glasses; not the larger pints glasses that you may be used to.
Green tea is sometimes provided complimentary. All other drinks will be at your own expense.
If you have booked a tour that does not include all meals, your local guides will be able to recommend a variety of restaurants to meet your taste and budget.
It is possible to buy snacks in supermarkets within major towns or cities. Alternatively, you may also like to bring comforts like cereal, biscuits, muesli bars, and tea/coffee from home.
Any food/diet requests MUST be specified at the time of booking and you should mention it again to the National Escort/ Local Guides when you meet them – they will do their utmost to cater for any special requests, such as vegetarian meals or food to be avoided in case of allergies.
This adventure is ideal for travellers with less time to spend and who want to see the very best bits of this incredibly diverse destination. We have designed the tour to make the most of the time available to showcase the key highlights and cities of China. This tour is also suitable for those who wish to do a Yangtze River Cruise.
South Africa's Asia Specialist
Over 17 years of experience
Friendly, knowledgeable regional specialists
Experienced English speaking tour guides
Everything's included in the price
Award winning service
Carefully planned itineraries
Fully IATA and ASATA protected


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Visiting a Holocaust memorial site is a painful experience.
It's very quiet, few people are observable as we walk the 50 hectares. None of us feels like speaking much. We read information on the stark obelisks placed on the now-grassy fields and woods where thousands of humans once suffered indescribably. A few foundations of the wretched camp huts still remain.
Bergen-Belsen was first a Wehrmacht-run POW camp for Russian soldiers; 20,000 of them are buried in an adjacent cemetery. Only later in 1943 was it turned into a concentration camp by the SS. Both German administrations treated the inmates criminally. The bare obelisks and flat concrete markers, at specific sites, reveal the hair-raising story of overcrowding and malicious neglect through lack of adequate shelter, food, water, and sanitation. At least 52,000 men, women, and children died, Jews being the vast majority. Thousands more died after liberation, weakened from starvation and disease. Mass graves are everywhere:
Along the entrance way, sound recordings and interviews with survivors can be heard. I did not go to view the photographs and historical footage. Many years ago I had seen film made by the camp liberators. Once is enough to never, ever forget. The arriving British and Canadians were stunned by the walking skeletons and heaps of unburied corpses. The crematorium had broken down in the last days.
Many nationalities are represented on the main memorial wall: French, Belgian, Dutch, Russians, Hungarians, Italians, Poles, and so on. The French dedication to their nationals says they "committed no crime other than love for France and not complying with the invaders' ideas." An individual stone can be seen here and there to memorialize a lone person.
The small Jewish cemetery has stone markers for some who died here, erected by family survivors or their descendants. The brief commemorations are poignantly touching and sad. They include Anne Frank and her sister Margot.
But to my horror, the first stone I saw was defaced. The Hebrew inscription can be seen at the edge of the gouges.
What evil spirit lingers here??
© 2013 Brenda Dougall Merriman


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Military Student Loan Forgiveness: What to do with your student loans?
Military families may rely on a variety of financial aid packages to help afford a higher education; including scholarships, grants, and loans. If your service member has federal loans, he or she will want explore the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.
The PSLF is a program for federal student loan borrowers who work in a range of public service jobs, including military service. The program forgives remaining debt after 10 years of eligible employment and qualifying loan payments. In most cases eligibility is based on whether you work for an eligible employer. Your job is eligible if you:
• are employed by any nonprofit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3)organization
• are employed by the federal government, a state government, local government, or tribal government (this includes the military and public schools and colleges); or
• serve in a full-time AmeriCorps or Peace Corps position.
PSLF applies to federal Stafford, Grad Plus, or consolidation loans as long as they are in the Direct Loan Program. Borrowers with Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP) loans must switch to the Direct Loan program to participate in this benefit.
In order to qualify for loan forgiveness the borrower must make 10 years (or 120 monthly payments) after October 1, 2007. Qualifying payments are made through the Direct Loan program. To count, the payments must be made while working full-time in an eligible job. "Full-time" means 30 hours per week or the standard for full-time used by the employer, whichever is greater. If your service member meets all of the eligibility criteria the earliest the remaining debt could be forgiven under the program is October 2017.
With advanced planning, the PSLF is another tool your family can use to help make higher education affordable. Since federal student loan interest rates reset each July , now is a good time to explore the PSLF program to see if it is right for you and your family.
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Reblogged this on Buoyed Up and commented:
Does your sailor have federal student loans? There is a program out there called Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) that will eradicate his or her student debt under specific conditions. The National Military Family Association wrote a wonderful piece explaining this program. Check it out.
No, we need information on disabled veterans' children who have student loans to pay back.


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Holidays in Rodeneck/Rodengo
The quiet and sunny village of Rodeneck is located in the Eisacktal valley. One of the highlights of a holiday in Rodeneck is a visit to the Rodenecker Alm, one of the largest high plateaus in all of Europe, located in the Lüsen/Luson mountains. Numerous mountain huts, gentle hiking trails and steep ascents with splendid views await. A visit to the Schloss Rodenegg castle, with its frescos is impressive, as is their great children's activity programme. In wintertime, downhill skiing in the surrounding ski areas is sure to put a smile on your face, as is a visit to the Rodenecker Alm for cross-country skiing, ski tours and snowshoe hikes.


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Paige Harrison
Class of 2011
Major/Minor: Biology, Chemistry
Having gone straight from undergraduate studies at WC to medical school, Paige is the youngest member of her class of 260 at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.
"The biology department at Washington College is the best. I love every single faculty member in the department; they each bring something really different to the table," Paige says. "Dr. Ford gave me a lot of confidence with my biology research; Dr. Krochmal made biology really exciting. And the way Dr. Verville [associate professor of biology] has organized the premed committee and handles student preparation is wonderful. When you go through the actual application process it's a breeze because you've already set up your files and had practice interviews," Paige explains.
Beyond her studies, Paige shadowed ten doctors in a wide range of specialties including her father's podiatry practice. She also volunteered at Chester River Hospital Center in Chestertown and at a community free clinic near her home in Hagerstown, MD. She discovered osteopathic family medicine while shadowing Dr. Marianne Herr-Paul, DO, in Greencastle, PA. "I was so impressed with her approach; I'd never seen anything like it," Paige says. "My philosophy of treating the whole patient really fits with osteopathy."
Paige explored her other passion, traveling, with a trip to Costa Rica, and a volunteer post in Ghana in 2010. "I have always been drawn to the African culture, so the summer before my senior year I spent a month at an orphanage in Dodowa through International Volunteer Headquarters. It was everything I could have asked for," she says. "The experience was very raw: 70 children, one 'mother' and four volunteers. We lived in a house with no running water and intermittent electricity. The children made it all worthwhile. They needed our love and attention—and we still keep in touch."
Looking ahead, Paige hopes to incorporate travel in her medical practice. "I'd like to consider participating in Doctors Without Borders. I love traveling, and would love to be able to make a difference in an underprivileged nation."
At Washington College Paige served as an officer for Alpha Omicron Pi sorority, as well as Tri-Beta (the national biological honor society) and Sigma Xi (the scientific research honor society). She also rode on the equestrian team.