The founder of online accommodation company HotelConnect has launched a new direct-sell business which will offer bespoke tours with local travel agents.
Insider Places will work with destination-based travel agents in 15 countries in South America and Asia to create off-the-beaten-track itineraries for UK travellers.
The company has been set up by Chris Fraser, who also held a senior consultancy role at luxury tour operator Cox & Kings.
Fraser said all agents have been “vigorously vetted” and the business is Abta-bonded.
Customers fill in an online form and an Insider Places team member schedules a call with the client to check their requirements before being matched with the most suitable agent in their chosen destination.
“Insider Places is for those who want to immerse themselves in the real essence of a destination; more authentic, closer encounters with the culture, wildlife, nature, people and traditions,” Fraser said.
“Opportunities to live like the locals, eat like them, cook with them and get away from ‘The Gringo Trail’ that is so often served up by many travel operators, but with the security that comes with a fully Abta-bonded, UK-based company.
“I wanted to make this connection easier by pulling together a trusted team of the vest best local agents and provide recognised travel guarantees, allowing customers to benefit from the improved experience and great savings, which can be as high as 20%.”