p26-27 letters dec12 9/12/08 18:10 Page 45
ttglive.com
letters
I will stay loyal to Kuoni, NCL refuses to load cruise Butlins fam trip was a
despite its online disounts on Norwegian Spirit real treat for my family
Although Kuoni is discounting online, it is only NCL appears to be bucking the credit crunch. Thank you, Butlins, for sending my family on a
three destinations and for a short period (TTG We have customers who have seen a cruise fam trip at Minehead. We had a fantastic time at
December 5). advertised on Norwegian Spirit, departing from the Sugababes show, but the highlight was the
It does not mean Kuoni is abandoning travel Boston in May. Apparently, this is not available Children in Need telethon.
agents. And at least they are not discounting so to UK customers. The operator we wished to Chico is my son’s idol, so he was in his
much, like many companies do, that we cannot book it through asked NCL, but the line refused element. We were also live on TV as everyone
even earn any commission. point blank to load it so we could book it. beat the biggest pillow fight recorded by
Kuoni is one of the most proactive operators But all is not lost: the customers can book it Guinness World Records.
in our industry, with roadshows, seminars, direct on their website. Surprise, surprise! We tried most of the facilities, such as the
educationals and weekly newsletters and If it’s that easy for the customer, why can no arcades, fun fair, swimming pool and lazy river,
special offers. It also offers lovely posters for arrangement be made to accommodate others, and we have never experienced such fun under
us to download for our windows. even if it’s a one off? But then NCL does not one roof. I have already promised my son we
In an ideal world, yes, it would be nice if appear to need the business. will return next year.
operators did not discount, but it isn’t. So let’s Imagine how many other customers wish to
support the operators that go out of their way arrange this kind of trip, yet the cruise company Lyndsey Davis
to support us and have done for many years. cannot, sorry, will not help. Thomson, Bexleyheath, Kent
All that business lost. I am sure the profits
Sandy Murray that NCL makes will amount to lots of money, Peltours helped us cruise
Sandy Travel, Normanton, West Yorkshire but how much has it missed? through tricky Nile booking
We recently had a request for a Nile cruise in
Tell clients to recall a few Allan Ashford January, which is not our area of expertise.
names, and see bookings rise Meadway Travel We immediately contacted Peltours, and are
The time has come to sing the virtues of the so glad we did. From advice to booking, their
package or inclusive holiday once again. ■ TTG would welcome a reply from NCL professionalism, knowledge and assistance was
With the collapse of banks, property first class, and they even tailor-made an extra
companies, household-name retailers, and Aito conference advice could element. Confirmation paperwork arrived
travel suppliers such as Maxjet, Oasis, Silverjet help agents through downturn within 24 hours.
and the XL Leisure Group, no longer can the With all the gloom about the recession, I We would urge any agent who hasn’t done so
notion that a firm is “large” mean it is a safer was glad to read a positive article recently: already to give them a try.
option. “Ignore the over-50s at your peril” was the
Small businesses have a great opportunity advice at the Aito conference (TTG December 5). Alison Jago, director, Completely Croatia
here. Recall the names Lehmann Brothers, In these difficult times, agents need to find
Woolworths, XL, and the others who will follow market niches that can buck the downward
What do you think?
without question. trends – and operators that can support them,
Point out to the public the importance of not undercut. The deadline for letters is 10am on Tuesday.
booking through bonded companies, which As a specialist in the over-55s market, we are We need your name, job title and company
should include suppliers, Abta, credit card looking forward to a record Christmas period address. These will be withheld on request.
companies and travel retailers themselves. which we hope will herald a strong 2009. Priority is given to letters sent exclusively
You may find that your clients then have the With about 85% of our sales coming via to TTG. Please limit letters to 250 words
reassurance to book ahead. Offer value for agents, your support is crucial to us, and we maximum. We reserve the right to edit.
money and peace of mind, and see your hope to help agents ride out this downturn. Email: ttgletters@ttglive.com
bookings rise in 2009. Fax: 020 7921 8033
Harold Burke Blog: Or why not have your say online?
Roger Mallock sales director, Write a blog at yourspace-ttglive.com
area manager, Chichester Travel Grand UK Holidays
12.12.2008 27
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