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Getting the domain you want
by Steve McCabe

just a case of typing in the domain into the address bar of your browser – just because you get a ‘Page cannot be displayed’ doesn’t mean that the domain is available. Many people buy domain names without putting up a web site on them (what’s known as ‘parking’ a domain).

Instead, to be certain you will need to do a WHOIS. As the name suggests, this tells you who owns the domain if it has been registered. If it has been registered, it gives you additional information about when the domain was registered, and when it expires. You might chose to wait till your ideal domain name expires, then try to snap it up (what’s known as ‘back-ordering’). Be aware though that there is often a 30-day grace-period after a domain has expired before you can take it. WHOIS is available on all domain registration sites.

There are many domain registrars, but are they all the same? No! You may want to go on cost, but the savvy will look for features rather than price alone. Do they offer web forwarding or e-mail forwarding? These features allow your domain name to work for you even before there’s a site on it. As always, shop around, and think ahead.

Tips for your site

I don’t have to tell you how competitive it is out there, so what can you do to help your web site stand out above the rest? Tip number 1: Be real, be personal. By this I mean always aim to set yourself apart. We’re often too shy with our sites and we should instead try to project our warmth and hospitality. Put some happy smiling people photos on your page! As well as giving a more personal feel, if the visit to your site is turned into a visit to your hotel or business, it will immediately create a bond.

Site of the week

The Internet Movie Data Base (www.IMDB.com). Have you ever begun to watch a film on TV but you’ve missed the start and want to know what it’s called, or what it’s about?

Even if you don’t know the name of a film, you can search IMDB.com in a wealth of other areas such as actors, characters, quotes or even filming location. In the absence of a local TV guide, this site, along with Yahoo TV listings (tv.yahoo.com), is invaluable!

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