Familiarisation visits and agent training
VisitGuernsey often welcome agents to the islands of Guernsey to showcase the experiences on offer, as well as provide training off island.
03 May 2024
Promoting air routes
In April, agents from Hay’s Travel and Love Holidays in Liverpool joined a press trip in celebration of the new air route. They were impressed with our history, culture, and the ease of the direct flight.
European agents
For the first time, “My own travel”, a small luxury tour operator based in Germany, also visited the islands. They really enjoyed their time in Guernsey, Herm and Sark and will be adding the Channel Islands to their portfolio going forward.
“We really enjoyed the time on Guernsey, but also Sark and Herm in perfect weather. Everything was well organized and thanks also to the guide on Guernsey. We will make sure to include the Channel Islands in our portfolio going forward”. Andreas Spengel, My Own Travel.
We also welcomed 40 agents from Rotterdam and Groningen with tour operator Sunair. The group visited Herm, enjoyed walking and coach tours, and visited accommodation.
Experiencing the islands first hand on these visits has proven to be worthwhile, with agents’ sales increasing after visiting.
“Travel agents are always asking if a fam trip to The Chanel Islands is coming up, because their knowledge about this destination is missing. Now we were able to take 40 travel agents. Results; 40 (very) enthusiastic (agents), first booking made, second booking requested, group booking possibilities are looked at, and a lot of new knowledge is shared in the Netherlands.” Marja Bouwmeester, Sales Manager at Sunair.
Travel Agent Training
As part of our ongoing collaboration with Premier Holidays, Josephine Ferguson presented at two travel agent training events in Norwich and Huddersfield with Premier Holidays, Sarnia Hotels Guernsey, Red Carnation Group, Aurigny, Blue Islands and VisitJersey.
More than 100 travel agents attended in order to learn more about the Channel Islands.
Following these training events, Premier Holidays report increased bookings and positive feedback from agents, who benefit from meeting local reps with a wealth of local knowledge.
