Agent’s Insight Name: Aline Ghanem Position: Operations Manager Company: Anastasia Travel Location: Lebanon
Aline Ghanem
Who are you?
Thomas Cook Hikes Fuel Charges Thomas Cook has announced fuel surcharges on flights and holiday packages from the UK due to the sequential increase of the oil prices. The tour operator applies the fuel supplement for all new bookings made from March 1 on its charter flights and holiday packages, however, bookings made before the announcement are not affected. Ian Ailles, CEO mainstream, Thomas Cook UK & Ireland, emphasised the company’s efforts to absorb the impact of the soaring oil prices. “We’ve worked hard to keep the impact of the rising fuel costs on our holidaymakers to a minimum but the fuel levy is an unavoidable result of the rising price of oil,” he said. The fuel surcharges raise short haul prices with GBP15 (USD24.5) per person, while the cost of medium haul trips is up GBP25 (USD40.8) and GBP40 (USD65.2) in case of long haul flights. Thomas Cook claims that fuel surcharges add less than four percent to its average prices.
We’ve worked hard to keep the impact of the rising fuel costs on our holidaymakers to a minimum
First of all, I am simply a person who knows and loves Lebanon. I work as a travel expert, specialising in incoming business to Lebanon. I studied tourism science and I am also a licensed tourist guide. Although I don’t work as a guide at the moment, I still use this knowledge and experience while preparing packages and tours for our clients. As a part time activity, I also teach tourism science at some Lebanese universities. Anastasia Travel, which I have joined in 1998, was established in 1992 and grew to be one of the leading travel companies in Lebanon.
What is your favourite thing about working in the travel industry? What I like the most is the possibility to communicate with people from all around the globe, getting to know different nationalities, languages and perspectives. Furthermore, nowadays MICE business is a real hit in Lebanon and I really enjoy working on these activities. Actually, working in the travel industry is way beyond a job. After a while it becomes your lifestyle.
When is the best time to visit Lebanon? I don’t exaggerate when I say all year round. Lebanon offers a wide range of attractions, so all seasons are great. Summer offers sandy beaches, green mountains and international festivals, while in winter Lebanon appeals with snow covered mountains, advanced ski stations and the cosy atmosphere of the capital city, Beirut. Spring is the season of beautifully coloured scenery, fresh air, and wonderful natural attractions, while autumn due to its average temperature is ideal for outdoor activities.
Where would you like to travel for your next holidays? I wish I could visit Italy or Sri Lanka. I really would like to explore both of these countries.
Why should people come to you for travel advice? Simply because we are different. We combine our expertise with the best prices and we care about our clients. 20
MARCH 12, 2011