CHINA operators are set to pursue aggressive marketing
and promotional activities after the Foreign and Commonwealth Office lifted its
travel ban to Beijing.
Operators took the country off sale in April following
the outbreak of SARS and subsequent travel advisories from the FCO. Operators
also felt there was little point selling China without Beijing.
To stimulate demand, operators are planning a range of
initiatives, including reduced prices and special offers.
Intrepid Travel is reducing prices by one-fifth for
all breaks booked by the end of this week to China and Tibet this August and
September.
Bales Worldwide will also launch special offers.
Managing director Mandy Nickerson said: “We need to do something that will
boost the number of departures. This might include two seats for the price of
one in club class.”
Kuoni product director Francis Torrilla said there
would be cheaper prices for certain departures in coming weeks.