With more than 300 million active viewers, Facebook has become a smart way for businesses to reach consumers. More than 10 million users become fans of Facebook pages every day. Most users are professionals in the 35-and-older demographic. These tourism-related sites are offering vacation contests to their Facebook fans. Don't "ignore" these opportunities!

www.facebook.com/LarkspurHotels

Larkspur Hotels & Restaurants have the "I Need A Vacation Because...!" contest that offers Facebook fans the chance to win one of eight getaways to a Larkspur Collection hotel, in conjunction with the launch of its eight new Web sites. In 50 words or fewer, fans describe why they need a vacation. On Nov. 17 the company will select eight winners with the best reasons for needing a vacation. Winners will receive a two-night stay, a $150 Southwest Airlines gift card and dinner for two at the hotel's restaurant.

www.facebook.com/seesydney?v=app_17037175766

Australia's New South Wales Tourism is inviting Americans to enter to win a weeklong Sydney vacation. Contenders are asked to write a 30-word post on their Facebook page explaining a favorite Sydney life experience. Two winners receive round-trip airfare on V Australia Airlines, seven nights at the Sydney Harbour YHA and five Sydney "experiences," including sailing Sydney Harbour and a seaplane ride.

apps.facebook.com/hiltonvideocontest/contests/5081

The Hilton group is running an "Appreciation Vacation" video contest, asking its Facebook fans to nominate someone they think needs a vacation. The winners will receive a four-day, three-night paid vacation at one of Hilton's three Mexico properties. The deadline to submit the video nomination is Nov. 15.

www.facebook.com/DolceHotels?v=app_10531514314

Dolce Hotels & Resorts is inviting Facebook fans to propose dream vacations at the Dolce Hayes Mansion with the promise that the fan whose idea gets the most votes will be awarded their own vacation. Twenty finalists will be selected, and Dolce's fans can then vote for their favorite. The grand prize will be the very vacation package created by the winner, a value of up to $4,000. Deadline for submissions is Friday.

Trip Tracker is compiled by Joy Guest. Is there a vacation or excursion that interests you? E-mail jguest@adn.com or comment online at adn.com/life/travel

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