The landscape of travel is swiftly evolving as agents lean towards bespoke trips over package holidays.
- Oasis Travel’s Sandra Corkin advocates for a shift from traditional package holidays to tailor-made experiences.
- Corkin believes the inspiration lies in creating unique, long-haul travel adventures.
- Commission cutbacks and direct operator pricing challenge traditional package models.
- Industry leaders support empowering agents to become travel consultants, not just ‘order takers’.
The travel industry is undergoing significant changes, with many agents now favouring bespoke trips rather than relying solely on traditional package holidays. Sandra Corkin, managing director of Oasis Travel, recently emphasised the necessity for such a transition during a discussion at the Future of Travel conference. She highlighted that while package holidays will not cease entirely, they are no longer the cornerstone of Oasis Travel’s business model.
Corkin articulated that the essence of travel should be about creativity and inspiration, particularly focusing on long-haul and exciting destinations. Her remarks reflect a broader trend in the industry wherein travellers are increasingly seeking personalised and memorable experiences. The days of generic package holidays may be dwindling as consumers look for trips that offer more than the ordinary.
Furthermore, Corkin mentioned the inherent financial challenges posed by mainstream packages, such as reduced commission earnings due to operators not honouring price parity. By utilising their own Atol protection and forming strategic net deals with cruise companies, Oasis Travel strives to offer unique pre-and post-cruise packages that appeal to modern travellers.
The sentiment that traditional package holidays are outdated is echoed by other industry professionals. Phil Nuttall, chief executive of Travel Village Group, underscored the importance of training agents to be more than mere ‘order takers’. Nuttall asserts that agents should evolve into inspirational figures who can curate travel experiences that resonate with clients.
Additionally, The Advantage Travel Partnership’s chief executive, Julia Lo Bue-Said, shared insights from a recent survey revealing a preference for the term ‘travel consultant’ over the antiquated ‘travel agent’. This change in terminology underlines the evolving role of these professionals as more than just facilitators of travel, but as purveyors of comprehensive travel services.
The travel industry is redefining itself with a focus on bespoke services, steering away from traditional package holidays.
