A NEW tour operator offering packages to Iraq is to take its
first group to the war-ravaged country next month.
Bann Tours, based in Swindon, is taking 10 people for a 10-day
tour at the end of September. Founder Don Lucey predicts there will
be a fortnightly programme of tours as early as next year.
“There’s definitely a market for it,” he said. “It is a
beautiful place and people are interested in the history. The
setting up of tours has to start somewhere and I’m the person
to do it.”
A second tour will run in November.
Lucey, who has a military and police background but is now a
full-time writer and author, worked in Iraq with a military
equipment company briefly last year.
To safeguard guests’ security, itineraries remain
confidential outside the tour group. Lucey, who is escorting the
tour with his 16-year-old daughter Beccy, is working with a local
Iraqi operator and will receive daily security briefings.
Lucey said while there are “incredibly dangerous” areas,
locations away from coalition forces did not present risks. “Not
all of Iraq is a no-go area,”he said.
He claimed locals welcome genuine visitors.
“The Iraqi people are so friendly, the majority speak good
English and are inquisitive and want to know what English life is
like.”
While no particular type of holidaymakers are targeted, Lucey
said he will “vet” potential customers to ensure they are going for
the right reasons.
“I’m not taking wannabe Rambos – tours are for
people genuinely interested in visiting the country.”
Sales have been achieved so far through word-of-mouth and its
website banntours.co.uk. Lucey is now in the process of applying
for an ATOL.
Tours lead in at £1,200 per person, with insurance provided
by Lloyd’s of London at £450.