Travel Counsellors has launched a campaign to “reassure and support” customers looking to travel post-pandemic and take lead on any queries around potentially contracting Covid while on holiday.
With leisure bookings currently performing at 172% compared to 2019 levels, the homeworking group has been working with hotel partners to identify the resorts and properties where it says customers could still have an enjoyable holiday experience if they were to test positive for Covid while abroad.
These hotels are now certified as ‘Assured Partners’.
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As part of the campaign, Travel Counsellors has highlighted new policies implemented by Assured Partners which enable guests to continue to enjoy their trip until they fully recover.
These include:
- Allowing guests to isolate in the comfort of their rooms/villas with family and friends
- Continuing to receive the resort’s full dining programme brought to them by room service
- Enjoying specially provided in-room entertainment
- Having a cost-free extended stay at the hotel until their isolation period is up
Since the Assured campaign launched in February, Travel Counsellors said it has recorded high engagement levels and a positive response as customers welcome the “increased travel advice, expertise and reassurance”.
A recent customer survey found 56% of customers said booking with someone they can trust is the most important factor when planning their holidays in 2022.
Meanwhile half the respondents said getting Covid while on holiday was a concern when making their travel plans.
Kirsten Hughes, managing director of Travel Counsellors, said: “As we come out of the pandemic we are seeing more and more people seeking the trusted advice and personal service from their travel advisor, reflected in the growing increase in enquiries and bookings.
“In this, customers want the guidance and reassurance when it comes to navigating travel, including all-important questions around catching Covid whilst on holiday with the varying guidance and restrictions in place.
“We have been working closely with our supplier partners to launch our ‘Assured’ campaign, highlighting the properties and resorts who have focused on ensuring customers can still enjoy their holiday should this happen.
“Customers have certainly appreciated this insight, further adding to the highly personal and caring service offered by their Travel Counsellor.”
Destinations featured in the Assured programme include Maldives, Mexico, St Lucia, the Canary Islands, Grenada and Dominican Republic.
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