WANTED Two friends in their 30s would like to visit Sri Lanka next year.
They would like to see some of the wildlife and historical sites but aren’t sure about the best way to travel. They would like to know about the best times to travel – for their budget and for the weather – as they’re flexible about dates. They would also like to know about security following the terrorist attacks earlier this year. BUDGET: £5,000
THE VERDICT
All the quotes were well under budget so there was plenty of scope for upselling and adding extras – or offering a more expensive holiday. Tui’s service stood out for the shopper because the agent was enthusiastic and suggested suitable holidays. Options offered at Liberty Travel also fitted the brief, but the shopper was very disappointed with the experience at Dragon Travel Agents.
tui 16 BAILEY STREET
IMPRESSION: The shop was neat with good branding, and staff were smart in uniform with name badges.
WINNING AGENT
TRAVEL ADVISOR mel evans
I’ve had a few inquiries for Sri Lanka. I’ve never been there but I would love
to go. The holiday quote was a bargain. We learn about destinations from clients, and colleagues here and in other stores. We advise people to look on the Travel Aware website for any security issues.
SCORING SYSTEM
10% Appearance/first impressions 25% Customer service 25% Advice and product knowledge 25% Holiday details 15% Overall experience
SERVICE: I was served immediately by a friendly agent, who listened to our requirements and gave us two detailed, easy-to-read options. She had good knowledge of the country and its security situation. She checked the government travel advisory website but advised us that – just as visiting anywhere – we must be sensible and minimise any risks. Insurance and room upgrades were offered.
QUOTES: Both quotes were with Skytours departing from Gatwick with Emirates in March 2020. The first was 17 nights’ half-board accommodation at Coco Royal Beach Resort, Kalutara, for £3,116. There were options for a river safari, visits to Kandy, Sigirya, Dambulla and Colombo, plus a 4x4 safari to see elephants, and a quad bike and kayaking adventure. The second was a 14-night multi-centre Sri Lanka Discovery Tour and Stay holiday. It started with a seven-night tour featuring similar visits, and seven nights at Coco Royal Beach Resort for £3,044.
OVERALL: The agent was focused, professional and enthusiastic and we would have booked if it had been a genuine enquiry. The service was miles above the experience elsewhere.
85% 42 21 NOVEMBER 2019
travelweekly.co.uk
THIS WEEK’S WINNER
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