| Journal: TWUK | Section: |
| Title: | Issue Date: 14/08/00 |
| Author: | Page Number: 20 |
| Copyright: Other |
Colours of Asia starts up tailor-made hotline
DEMAND for tailor-made holidays has prompted specialist operator Colours of Asia to introduce a dedicated hotline number for agents.Retailers calling the number – 0870 905 4000 – will get a same-day quote for tailor-made itineraries. The move will help free up the standard reservations number.
New to its 2001 programme, which has just been launched, are Dubai, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Myanmar and Laos.
Growth of 40% to 50% is being targeted for next year, taking carryings to around 9,000.
Head of marketing Karl Thompson said: “Next year will only be our second year of operation but we are beginning to form partnerships with a number of airlines which will open up new destinations.”
He added that a new deal with Emirates has led to the inclusion of Dubai and also the Maldives.
Prices lead in at £495 for five nights at a three-star hotel in Pataya.
Meanwhile, the operator is to launch a club for its best-performing agents.
“We currently work with around 2,500 and 3,000 retailers but will look to target a few hundred for the club,” said Thompson.
Member benefits will include increased rates of commission and enhanced marketing support.
The specialist is also running a competition to help stimulate bookings. Any agent making a booking before the end of next month will be entered into a draw with a holiday for two to Bali up for grabs.