In an effort to make things easier for its travellers, Topdeck Travel has done away with local payments which were previously paid separately on arrival, instead factoring them into the price of its trips.
The decision removes the need to carry extra money and “streamlines” the process for consumers, according to global brand director Sarah Clark. The move will also benefit the local trade by boosting earning potential.
Clark predicted that Africa and the Middle East would be the hottest destinations for the company in the 2016/17 selling period, basing the forecast on past trends. As a result, Topdeck has added two new journeys in the destinations to its latest program.
“The Australian and New Zealand markets saw out 2015 with a growth percentage of 24% and 16% in both Middle East and Africa respectively, further aiding the decision to add new trips,” she said.
“New trips include the 23 day Kruger, Victoria Falls & Zanzibar and 14 day Pyramids to Petra. This provides more options for passengers to create a customised itinerary by linking smaller sector trips together, another example of Topdeck’s ‘your trip your way’ mantra.”
Travellers’ accommodation preferences are also undergoing a shift with Topdeck introducing a greater variety of options to cater to the trend, Clark revealed.
“We realise some travellers prefer camping whilst others have more diverse preferences. This created the need to introduce accommodated dwellings, pre‐erected tents with camp beds, safari lodges and hostels, most with ensuites – allowing travellers to choose their own style,” she said.
“We expect to see continued growth with these products in the coming season.”
