The Guernsey Tourist Board took eight agents to Guernsey on an educational from September 23-24 last year. They flew with Jersey European Airways from Birmingham, toured the island and visited six hotels. There was also time for a quick shopping trip to St Peter Port before the return flight.
Before: I had been to Jersey and thought Guernsey would be similar in size. I also thought the hotels would be upmarket and expensive. I would have tried to sell it to older people and couples that wanted a quiet weekend away. I had no idea what attractions Guernsey had to offer. We don’t sell much to the Channel Islands.
After: I will now recommend it for the younger market as well as for older people. We went on a weekend when the weather was good – which probably helped – but it is a lovely island. I was surprised how small and how quaint it is. The top hotels were nice, but some of the lower-category accommodation was quite poor.
Tanya Grimes, Business Travel Consultant, Wooton Travel, Wooton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire
Before: I went to Guernsey on a day trip when I was seven years old, but I don’t remember anything about it. I have been to Jersey about six times and know that it is a lively resort. My impression of Guernsey was that it is quiet and boring, and for the over-60s. I tried to sell holidays to Guernsey, but tended to steer younger clients to Jersey. I had no idea what there was to see and my impression was there was nothing to do. I also thought there were either five-star hotels or guesthouses and there would be nothing in between.
After: I have changed my mind and would love to go back. The scenery is brilliant, the locals were friendly and St Peter Port was gorgeous. It is not for the 18-30s crowd but it is not just for older people. I would send a family there. I have sold Guernsey since we got back. One was a short break for a couple who had no idea where to go, so I suggested Guernsey. They came back to the shop afterwards to say they had a fantastic time there. The other was an older couple who had been to Guernsey before, but I was able to recommend a hotel.
Sharon Archer, Sales Consultant, The Travel Centre, Evesham, Worcestershire
Before: I had been to Guernsey about three times before on holiday. It is one of my favourite places, but because it was a holiday I have only ever seen the hotels I was staying in and I wanted to see others. We do quite a bit of business to Guernsey and it is always helpful so see the hotels because some are suitable for families, while others are for groups like golfers.
After: We packed in a lot on the trip and I have been able to use the information I learned since returning to advise a client about the hotels. We saw Saints Bay Hotel – it is great for couples but not ideal for families as there is a walk to the beach. You also need a car if you stay there. St Pierre Park is definitely not for families, which I would not have thought before.
Jean Wheeler, Senior Travel Consultant, Kenilworth Travel, Kenilworth, Warwickshire