DESTINATIONS UPSELLING | WINTER SUN 3 CHOOSE THE RIGHT RESORT


Clients’ priorities may have changed, at least in the short to medium term, with reassurance over safety and social distancing now a consideration. Colin Pegler, managing director of Resort Marketing, which represents Caribbean properties including Casa de Campo Resort & Villas (pictured) in the Dominican Republic, says: “Once the coronavirus situation is over, there will undoubtedly be pent-up demand from those who missed a summer holiday. The luxury sector is well-placed to meet demand from those who want to make up for a missed break with an extra-special trip, and those looking to escape the crowds. Luxury resorts typically offer more space for guests. This has traditionally been to offer more privacy but is relevant to anyone looking for a quieter getaway. From quiet beaches to private dining cabanas, it’s easy to distance yourself from others when you have more space.”


BOOK A VILLA


The consensus across the industry is that villas and suites – especially those with pools, private space and complimentary room service – will see a boost as guests seek to enjoy their holiday while minimising time in public areas. Nicky Shafe, marketing manager for Prestige Holidays, says: “Private villas and larger suites in hotels will have strong appeal for those travelling later this year, making them an obvious upsell. For example, the spacious one and two-bedroom villas at Hotel Bahia Del Duque (pictured) in Tenerife are in a separate area of the property, offering privacy and seclusion, and all have their own pools. They are substantially more expensive than double rooms but come with lots more space and a range of extras such as afternoon champagne, high tea and 24-hour butler and room service.”


4


ARRIVE IN STYLE


It’s not just about the flight – suggest rocking up to the resort in a helicopter or private jet. Sandals guests in Butler Elite or Club Elite suites (at selected resorts) get a luxury private transfer in a BMW, Rolls-Royce or Mercedes-Benz, while at its three Saint Lucian resorts there’s the option to upgrade to a helicopter flight (pictured) to see the island from the air (from £351 per couple one-way). Elegant Resorts also recommends adding VIP transfers for travellers to Bequia Beach Hotel in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines for “a faster, more personalised and seamless experience” than commercial connections. Guests are met on arrival at Barbados by hotel representatives who pick up luggage then chauffeur them to a private nine-seat King Air B200 aircraft for their flight to Bequia.


² travelweekly.co.uk 28 MAY 2020 23


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