The introduction of Mandarin speaking guides to AAT Kings Uluru program along with its Sydney and Melbourne day tours is expected to help the operator capitalise on rapid growth from the Chinese travel market.
The guides will join AAT Kings’ foreign language program from October, joining the ranks of Italian, German and Japanese language speakers. The operator also offers iPod commentary in Mandarin, German and French.
AAT Kings managing director Anthony Hayes highlighted the brand’s efforts to become “China ready” over the last 12 months.
“We’ve identified a new Chinese traveller – one that’s younger, more discerning and interested in engaging in more cultural experiences,” he said. “As the Chinese market evolves, our insights tell us that our Chinese visitors are starting to venture further off the traditional path.”
Asia sales manager Lucy Jin is working with partners to “identify and grow inbound opportunities” in order to help it achieve its goal of carrying 20% more Chinese travellers on its day tours, short breaks and guided holidays,
Meanwhile, the company continues to enhance its product range with the addition of free wifi to its fleet of coaches. Now available on 34 vehicles, it is expected to be aboard the entire fleet by the end of the year.
It has also added more local food and wine tastings and dining occasions, longer stays in key destinations such as Cradle Mountain and additional departures, along with a new Trail Series of hikes in partnership with Great Walks of Australia.
