This week, Travel Weekly called on agents in and around Yeovil, Somerset, to get their views on programmes to South Africa.
Agents reported that enquiries for South Africa were generally on the increase and that the majority of clients requested tailor-made itineraries.
See how Somak, Travel 2, South African Airways Holidays – operated by Thomas Cook – and Virgin Holidays performed under the spotlight.
*****
Agents award stars for:
* Brochure design and ease of use
* Operator service
* Programme support
* Client feedback
* Product popularity
All agents remain anonymous and no additional information will be given out.
Top Operator: Somak Holidays
Rating: *****
Brochure: Africa and The Indian Ocean.
Description: 180-page brochure of holidays to Africa, the Indian Ocean, India and the Middle East. Includes holidays to South Africa, Botswana, Malawi, Zambia, Namibia andZimbabwe.
Reservations: tel. 0181-423 3000.
Agents’ verdict: “The brochure front is evocative of the destinations included and is a bit different to most.”
“This is always one we give out first when clients ask about South Africa but very few clients actually ask for it by name.”
“The range is very extensive with plenty of choice and flexibility.”
“Good quality holidays which always generate excellent feedback.”
“Staff know their subject and administration is good.”
“We don’t get a massive demand for South Africa but this brochure suits most clients who are interested in travelling there.”
“It’s certainly my favourite. The product range is good and staff really know their stuff.”
Thomas Cook
Rating: ****
Brochure: South African Airways Holidays
Description: 52-page brochure of holidays across South Africa including tailor-made, self-drive, escorted tours and train journeys. Also features Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia and Mauritius.
Reservations: tel. 0870 6071364.
Agents’ verdict: “This is a good-looking brochure which is easy to follow and attractively laid out.”
“The product range is good with plenty of tours and something to suit most clients.”
“Booking is straight-forward as staff are efficient and helpful.”
“Clients are always very happy with what they get.”
“The brochure is picked up regularly and this is the one that always springs to my mind.”
Virgin Holidays
Rating: ***
Rating: HHH
Brochure: Virgin Territory South Africa.
Description: 56-page brochure of holidays across South Africa. Includes flydrive, coach tours, two-centre holidays and Mauritius.
Reservations: tel. 01293 617181; Istel or Fastrak VIR
Agents’ verdict: “This is an appealing brochure. It looks good but it is quite thin.”
“The maps inside are good and it is easy to follow although it could do with a bit more information on the things you can do once you are in South Africa.”
“Quick and easy to book through the system. If you have to call, the staff are always very friendly.”
“Brochure supplies are a bit sporadic, but if they arrive it does sell.”
Travel 2
Rating: ***
Brochure: Discover Southern Africa.
Description: 60-page brochure of holidays in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Mauritius and the Seychelles. Includes coach tours, self-drive, rail journeys and tailor-made options.
Reservations: tel. 0171-561 2220.
Agents’ verdict: “A bit of a plain brochure but it does seem to stand out quite well on the racks.”
“The brochure is easy to follow and pretty informative.”
“Most bookings for South Africa are quite complex – not just a brochured package – and Travel 2 is very helpful for tailor-made deals.”
“Clients never ask for Travel 2, but they always say nice things after their holiday.”