FA C E T O FA C E Barbara Charlton
talking shop
27
Barbara@thesussextravelcompany.co.uk 01403 276684
‘Wineuary’ took its toll on the office “Agents are never really on holiday because we're always looking for recommendations” I for one am glad that January is over as there was every chance I might have become an alcoholic by the end of what I rename ‘Wineuary’. February will no doubt bring the usual round of re-quotes for enquiries we initially received in January. Several clients contact us, wait until payday and are then disappointed to learn that many of the early booking discounts have disappeared. When will they learn? ‘January Sale’ means
‘January Sale’, not February and certainly not March!
I would love to explore the Nordic countries in summer and winter
TREATS IN STORE
I'm pleased to say that I have been selected as a finalist in a 'Cake-Off' competition with Inghams Ski. I shall be putting my ‘hobby baker’ skills to the test by re-creating my winter-themed cakes in Inghams' offices in Godalming, alongside two other agents. Let's hope I manage to stay calm in a competitive environment and strange kitchen!
TRAINING AND CHALLENGES We have been so busy it has been difficult to do much training, but thank you to Rosi and Ian from Emirates Holidays, Neil from If Only, Marcus from Select Representation, Dan from Exodus and Gary from Travelpack, who all made the trip to Horsham to wish us Happy New Year and offer their continued support. This month we will be off to sample the Caribbean in Brighton courtesy of the fun Destination Events team. Let's hope they bring the Caribbean sunshine along with the rum punch! Thankfully, we didn't have any clients affected by All Leisure's
collapse, but we did pick up a booking from a couple that had a Far East cruise confirmed but, just a fortnight before the departure day, needed an alternative. Many thanks to Tanya, who booked them a new trip with Travel2. These online-first clients now know the value of an independent agent they can trust!
NEW FRONTIERS I'm glad to see that lots more people are looking to travel to the Nordic countries and, thankfully, by booking early, we do find them some reasonable prices. Taber Holidays recently rebranded as Scandinavia Only, which should help agents book with them more confidence. I also
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recommend Nordic Experience, a company I recently used to book a surprise 50th birthday trip for a long-term client. I found the girls very helpful! Here in the shop, Tanya is looking forward to a three-centre Thailand trip and Helen is heading to Spain, for a short break to Jerez and a mission to find an authentic Flamenco. Me? I can't wait for my six-night break exploring Seville, Cordoba and the Andalucian countryside and fabulous food. Happy selling to you all!