Long-Haul Tour Operators Offer Unprecedented Discounts and Deals

Strategic Insights -

Long-haul tour operators are embarking on a competitive pricing strategy, aiming to lure customers with substantial discounts and deals. Major players like Kuoni, Hayes & Jarvis, Elegant Resorts, ITC Classics, Carrier, the Ultimate Travel Company, and British Airways have introduced an array of sales and price reductions on their long-haul packages. These discounts range from 14% to 41% off the original prices, making for enticing deals on destinations such as Kenya, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius.

Key Takeaways:

  • Kuoni has been instrumental in negotiating price reductions with hotels and tourist authorities, resulting in many holidays being sold at lower prices than last year.
  • Hayes & Jarvis reports an average price reduction of 14% on packages to Kenya, with specific discounts reaching up to 41% at luxury hotels.
  • In Sri Lanka, the average price has fallen from £1,724 to £1,682, while in Mauritius it has dropped from £1,724 to £1,630.
  • Tour operators like Hayes & Jarvis and Kuoni are offering a range of deals, including a 14-night holiday at the five-star Serena Beach Hotel in Mombasa for £1,099 half-board per person, including flights.
  • Thai hotels and airlines have reduced prices, making destinations like Mauritius and Thailand particularly good value at the moment.
  • Kuoni's website now features a price-checking tool that allows customers to compare prices for different departure dates, providing a more transparent and competitive pricing strategy.

Statistics:

  • Average price reduction of 14% on packages to Kenya.
  • Average price reduction of £251 on packages to Sri Lanka.
  • Average price reduction of £94 on packages to Mauritius.
  • 41% discount on a 14-night holiday at the five-star Serena Beach Hotel in Mombasa.
  • Kuoni's relatively low cost of living in Thailand makes it an attractive destination for tourists despite the strengthened Thai baht against sterling.

Sources:

  • Kuoni
  • Hayes & Jarvis
  • Elegant Resorts
  • ITC Classics
  • Carrier
  • The Ultimate Travel Company
  • British Airways