Despite some of the challenges facing the Americas, the region should still be firmly on the radar for agents, says Paul Melinis, director of sales for Insight Vacations and Luxury Gold
Notwithstanding the home-grown news agenda over the last few weeks, my attention recently has been mostly focused on the Americas – a crucial destination for Insight Vacations, Luxury Gold and many other members of Atas.
We have been closely monitoring how president Donald Trump’s travel restrictions are playing out for the tourism industry, and we will continue to do so.
But there are so many positive things happening in that part of the world at the moment, and that’s a key message we are trying to get out to our agent partners.
Great sales ‘hooks’ include Canada recently celebrating its 150th birthday, while the US is a prime location for observing the total solar eclipse next month. Forty years since his passing, the southern states are also preparing to pay homage to Elvis, which we know will be a big draw.
The sheer size of the US and Canada and the wealth of things to see mean they are both perfect destinations for touring holidays. And with highly-skilled Travelling Concierges taking care of every detail and a number of day-to-day costs factored into the price, there is a really strong sales story for agents dealing with clients who might be concerned about a lack of familiarity with the destination or worried about exchange rates.
Our commitment to the region continues, as shown by the recent launch of our 2018 Premium USA & Canada programme and a standalone Luxury Gold USA, Canada & South America brochure.
We also want to make sure as many agents experience the destination and our product for themselves, so we’ve started a three-month incentive programme where they can win gold stars for their personal Walk of Fame and win rewards including the grand prize of a place on our VIP Insight Vacations Americas Fam in 2018.
And don’t forget that the Americas isn’t just about the US and Canada – we’re really excited to be going to Costa Rica for the first time in 2018, offering experiences like the chance to meet a volcanologist at Arenal or enjoy an exclusive marimba show in Guanacaste which really make touring and adventure holidays an unbeatable choice.
Whether it’s finding out what the president has done next or talking to our trade partners, I’m certain the Americas will remain in my focus in the months ahead. And you can be assured we’ll be continuing to offer more great products and incentives to make sure this fantastic region remains firmly on the radar for agents too.