Make Travel Matter Experiences are unique travel experiences chosen for the ways in which they advance the United Nations Global Goals, and are available across all of The Travel Corporation’s brand itineraries. They are selected with great care using a proprietary assessment tool, exclusive to TTC and our family of brands, which analyzes experiences against a transparent set of qualifying criteria, allowing TTC to identify whether the experience advances the UN Global Goals, and if so, which Goal in particular. Read the endorsements of Make Travel Matter Experiences and our qualifying criteria by leading travel industry and sustainable development experts below.

Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary General of the UNWTO

The importance of tourism has never been more evident. I salute The Travel Corporation’s new Make Travel Matter Experiences initiative to make tourism matter at every level, and I am happy that UNWTO can contribute to this important work through our shared efforts to re-start Tourism as a critical part of sustainable global development.

Gloria Guevara, President & CEO, World Travel & Tourism Council

More than 330 million people across the world (1 in 10 of all jobs) depend on Travel & Tourism for their livelihoods. It is an economic activity that not only creates jobs, but has an unmatchable social impact, with a proven record on helping nations around the world to reduce poverty, sharing income from the most developed to the poorest destinations, creating opportunities for people to work in their own country. This is in addition to being the most inclusive sector employing more than 50% women, and more than 30% youth. Regardless of the level of education, gender, religion, beliefs or nationality, Travel & Tourism offers an opportunity to all for a better life.

I am thrilled to see the launch of the ‘Make Travel Matter’ E-Assessment tool, which is a great initiative and a powerful tool to advance sustainable tourism and increase the positive impact of Travel & Tourism.  Our personal choices matter and travel connects directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, so with this tool you can really make a difference and see the positive impact of sustainable tourism in the environment, protecting our ecosystem, our assets, and especially wildlife, while at the same time providing a significant positive social impact.

Anita Mendiratta, Special Advisor to the Secretary General – UNWTO / Founder & President – Anita Mendiratta & Associates 

Travel & Tourism has been, and remains, a vital force of economic, social, cultural and environmental progress. COVID-19 has strengthened not only the world’s desire to travel, but awareness around the essential impact it has on destinations, especially their local communities. By being a world temporarily grounded, the value and values of travel have evolved, elevating respect and appreciation for the sector. Through my role as a global advisor to governments and businesses directly and indirectly connected with Travel & Tourism, my focus is firmly on embedding awareness and inspiring commitment towards sustainable growth and advancement of the sector, especially in times of crisis where, as now, our shared global challenges demand shared solutions.

In this spirit, viewing this historic year as an opportunity for sector betterment, TTC turned its attention towards the development the group’s new 5-year Sustainability Strategy – HOW WE TREAD RIGHT – with its smart, simple Make Travel Matter Experiences program. The supporting E Assessment tool developed by TTC’s sustainability leadership is a thoughtful approach to determining how travel experiences delivered to guests of TTC and its family of brands directly impact the UN SDGs. By doing this, the program enables travellers to become inspired by their own efforts to make travel matter. Why so needed as we ready for a post COVID-19 world of travel? Because good intentions are not good enough – sustainable action is critical and must be measurable.

Dr. Wendy Purcell PhD FRSA, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University

The ‘Make Travel Matter’ E-Assessment tool is a commendable initiative to advance sustainable tourism.  It brings rigor to the process making visible the choices we make to benefit people and planet.  Tying our decisions directly to one or more of the Sustainable Development Goals connects our personal choices with global impact.  There is an opportunity now to reset travel and tourism by prioritizing the United Nations 2030 Agenda¹, both to assure long-term resilience of the sector as well as enabling it to make its fullest contribution to sustainable development.  This new tool could help the sector deliver the SDGs and a world where “no-one will be left behind.” ¹

Costas Christ, President, Beyond Green Travel and Chairman, TreadRight Foundation 

The Travel Corporation (TTC) is taking sustainability to the next level of innovation with the launch of the Make Travel Matter E-Assessment tool. With more than 40 individual travel companies under the TTC banner, this tool provides a way to incorporate experiences into TTC’s itineraries that provide guests with inspiring local and authentic ways to explore and learn about the places they visit on a meaningful level, while also directly connecting those experiences to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Not only does this truly help to Make Travel Matter, to benefit people, wildlife and our planet, it demonstrates leadership to chart a new way forward in travel that recognizes the direct connection between personal well-being and planetary well-being

Jeremy Sampson, CEO, The Travel Foundation

The Travel Foundation has done a considerable amount of work to understand the invisible burden that destinations carry as a result of tourism development. Make Travel Matter Experiences by TTC and its family of brands represents a leading experience provider recognising the critical role that destination health has to the future of our industry.

I’m pleased to see Make Travel Matter experiences are backed by a set of rigorous criteria that keeps the wellbeing of the destination at the forefront. Make Travel Matter Experiences accomplish this by advancing the UN Global Goals and ensuring the benefits of tourism are kept local. This can positively impact on the destination’s economy, its people, and its environment, and lead to stronger and more resilient destinations – the ultimate goal of sustainable tourism. Moreover the program represents a considerable shift, on behalf of a major player in the industry, to educate guests and travellers on the many issues facing our world today. The opportunity for impact is impressive.

Arnie Weissmann Editor in Chief, Travel Weekly

The scope of activities the Tread Right Foundation is implementing across The Travel Corporation brands and around the globe is impressive indeed. These initiatives address a host of problems, from animal welfare to the quest for carbon neutrality to community support, that cross the spectrum of challenging issues related to sustainability. That they involved their guests in the programs, as well, is a critically important feature. In aggregate, the programs provide a near-perfect blueprint for how the travel industry can be a force for good.

After working alongside Trafalgar, Contiki, and The Travel Corporation for over 10 years, it’s super exciting to see progress in their sustainability journey and alignment of their strategy to the United Nations’ Global Goals. It’s so key that we all play our part in protecting and regenerating our planet, and how we travel is no exception. Travel has a unique role in educating people about global issues and fuels the desire to protect what we love. I believe this new E-Assessment tool will grow the number of meaningful travel experiences around the world, providing a framework from which travel experiences can be measured and improved.  As we’ve found with our Litter Intelligence programme, data helps us make better decisions to take action for positive impacts. Well done to all the TTC brands and the TreadRight Foundation for their progress and leadership in sustainable travel.

The Future of Tourism Coalition places destination needs at the center of tourism’s new future, and has developed 13 Guiding Principles that prioritize destination health. The Coalition has recognized Make Travel Matter Experiences as an example of Guiding Principle #1: See the Whole Picture. This principle recognizes that “most tourism by nature involves the destination as a whole, not only industry businesses but also its ecosystems, natural resources, cultural assets and traditions, communities, aesthetics, and built infrastructure.”

As part of TTC’s 5-year sustainability strategy How We Tread Right (HWTR), our goal is to include at least one Make Travel Matter Experience on 50% of our itineraries by 2025. Learn more about our HWTR goals.

It’s been a big 12 months, huge. Between work, parenting duties, home schooling, relationships and other significant responsibilities… throw in a pandemic, elections and the uncertainty of life as we know it… it’s A LOT.

One thing is for certain – you owe yourself a break. It’s time to schedule some time to unwind, relax, have some fun and treat yourself and fellow wonder women aka besties, to a girls’ getaway!

With a shiny new year just starting and vaccines rolling out, the time is NOW to start planning and explore your own country, celebrate the beauty of what travelling through your own backyard can offer… or perhaps what your ‘neighbor’s backyard’ looks like, once travel bubbles and travel corridors emerge.

The perks of holidaying close to home – cut out the cost of international flights, language barriers and jet lag.

No matter what country you call home, here are some trip ideas to ensure a memorable girls’ vacation whether looking for a beach holiday, foodie trip, or city centric vibe.

The California Coast

It’s little wonder why the Beach Boys wrote a song about ‘California Dreamin’’. The golden state tops the list of US cities for the best climate year-round, it’s as diverse as it is predictable to expect a sunny day. Dotted with famous cliff-lined beaches, redwood forest, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Valleys and National Parks.

Take your gal pals and feast like queens in San Francisco’s Chinatown, get star struck in Hollywood and grab a cocktail on the rooftop pool bar of the Mondrian, feel the force of nature at Yosemite National Park and road trip down one of the most iconic roads in American history.

For an all-inclusive two-week galivant, discover the California lifestyle with Costsaver.

New York, New York

If the name alone doesn’t incite in you an urge to dance and swing around a pole Broadway style, then I don’t know what will. Pack your stilettos and make like Carrie Bradshaw (Sex and The City) with your girlfriends through the ‘city that doesn’t sleep’.

Go wild in some of the world’s most renowned department stores like Rockefeller Plaza, Columbus Circle, Soho and Madison Square. Wander through skyscraper skies and neon lights, live out the bar hopping dream and discover the best local spots and comedy dive bars; then let yourself loose on the icons from Times Square to the chic streets of the High Line, and the vibrant neighborhoods of New York.

You can do all this in five days with Trafalgar’s New York Explorer.

Canada

For the crew looking for something a little more adventurous, you can’t go past Canada for its extreme beauty and world-class alpine mountains. An après ski trip perhaps? Grab the girls, layer up in the latest gear, ski out, and stop for schnapps to warm the body and take in the views.

From Whistler to Big White, Lake Louise and Banff – you can count on plenty of powder and adventurous days out on the field.

If you’re looking for seamless, small group travel in style, Insight Vacations offers Canadian Rockies and Pacific Coast with glacier discoveries and a cruise option.

South Africa

Spoil yourself along with your besties, book in for a relaxing weekend at The Oyster Box in Durban. Standing majestically on Umhlanga’s beachfront, the hotel overlooks the Indian Ocean and the iconic lighthouse.

Get lost in the local love story of South Africa’s most cherished hotel and national treasure. Discover its timeless elegance, delicious dining, and indulge in the award-winning spa amid the tropical garden oasis.

European Rivers

Time to do nothing is pure luxury, which makes the ultimate carefree girls’ trip a river cruise.  Enjoy this truly unique way to explore Europe as you float past castles and quaint villages onboard the U by Uniworld luxurious ship (max 130 people), all while relaxing and sipping on wine from the rooftop deck. Think floating 5-star boutique hotel, restaurant, bar and yoga studio with ‘wellness on the water’.

Waking up to swans outside your window as you roll past misty waters, pure magic. And there is plenty of free time to explore the cities and towns for shopping and bar hopping. Your friends will be talking about this for years to come.

Australia and New Zealand

Sharing the same qualities yet completely unique from each other (and are both deemed incredibly low risk Covid countries) – Australia is renowned for its picturesque coastlines, white sands and beachy ‘no worries’ laidback lifestyle; and New Zealand is known for its breathtaking mountains and landscape, the Southern Hemisphere’s answer to ‘Canada’.

Imagine snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef (one of the seven natural Wonders of the World), then head north to the Daintree Rainforest for its hikes and sleep in an eco-treehouse, then travel across to Uluru – such a spiritual place that draws you in like a vortex in the most magical way.

New Zealand offers contrast between its North and South islands – a plethora of natural wonders such as the Tasman Glacier made famous by The Lord of the Rings. Road trip through Fiordland National Park and out to the unmissable Milford Sound.

AAT Kings arranges short breaks, Day Tours and guided holidays all throughout these two destinations; and Contiki has a range of adventures for the millennials and Gen Z’s looking to socialize and have fun.

Japan

 A mix of Eastern traditions crossed with Western modernity, a girls’ trip to Japan offers majestic temples, pristine natural scenery such as Mount Fuji and its forested hills. Take a dip in a mineral-rich Onsen hot spring bath heated by geothermal forces which are said to offer ‘rejuvenating powers’ – pair this with the blooming cherry blossom season in April for springtime, and you have yourself the ultimate pampered getaway.

 Food and entertainment are important to Japanese culture, so whilst on a mission for fun, you must sample a range of the many delicious dishes that make up their traditional cuisine (while sipping on sake and singing to karaoke, obviously). FYI – Japan is the birthplace of Karaoke, so go ahead, paint the town red and sing to your hearts content!

Whether it’s a short break, weekender or a guided holiday – there are so many different options when you can make the time to take a break from the daily grind and responsibility. #YTG! (Yeah The Girls).

We can all agree that 2020 wasn’t the year we had thought it would be. Many holidays and island getaways put on hold while we took an extended breath and deep sigh. Instead we dreamed of faraway places and island getaways, and reminisced of what it was like to interact in a foreign land.

One thing is for sure, we’ll be travelling more thoughtfully and with appreciation for when the borders open and we can jump on that boat and hop to the next isle, step onto those white sands or pebbled beaches, take in that pink sunset or orange sunrise and breathe in that salty breeze.

Gosh I’ve missed travel. While travel may change for the ‘new world’, what we all look for in a vacation will remain the same… relaxation, fun, culture, magic moments; but also a whole lot of appreciation for communities that did it tough through the pandemic and rely on tourism to survive, we’ll be thinking harder as to how we can contribute and where our money is best spent.

As you look for the perfect escape to reconnect with nature and unwind, here are some of the best islands in the world to add to your dreamy list of where to go next:

1. The Greek Islands

Live your best island life on these infamous islands. A sun worshipper’s paradise dotted with pristine beaches along the Mediterranean seas, charming fishing villages, quaint markets and dramatic coastlines. When every angle is as picture perfect as a postcard draped in blue and white architecture to match the equally azure waters – people literally clap (and even cry tears of joy) when the sun goes down in Santorini because it’s THAT beautiful, it’s a honeymooner and lovers delight.

 Enjoy the warmth of the people as you explore the islands from Mykonos with its incredible nightlife and foodie delights to Crete, the largest Greek island rich with historical sites, hikes and small cities; to the smaller islands of Naxos and Paros, the most family friendly.

Wherever you explore, go deep beyond the ouzo and the olives and ancient statues… There is something for everyone whether you’re a youthful Contiki island hopper, or a well-travelled nomad with Insight Vacations.

2. Hawaii

Aloha! Let the locals welcome you with a lei from the main island of Hawaii to Maui, Oahu and Kaui – these islands are all famous for their surf, sand and panoramic views with palm tree lined coasts, but all four islands are diverse with a unique offering and experience on each.

• • Kauai known as The Garden Isle is graced with dramatic, natural beauty, the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’ filled with waterfalls, canyons, trails and Poipu Beach – voted one of America’s best beaches.
  • Maui the Valley Isle, is home to what some believe are the best beaches in the world and is renowned for its whale watching in winter. Stroll through the historic town of Lahaina and drive the Road to Hana for spectacular scenery.
  • Oahu is a big city island life with fine accommodation and dining. Honolulu is the 11^th largest city in the US and has the best selection of both cultural and historical sites. When in Oahu, Diamond Head should be top of your list. This stunning volcanic cone is the most popular Hawaii State Park, offering beautiful views of The Pacific Ocean and Honolulu at the edge of a 300,000 year old crater.
  •  Big Island of Hawaii,  with so many waterfalls to chase, Hawaiian treats to snack on and volcanoes to explore, you can easily spend a week barely scratching the surface her hiking and driving. Take in the natural beauty on a scenic drive through the Chain of Craters road or Mauna Loa road and see the real Hawaii.

Discover the cultures, traditions and stunning remote islands on Trafalgar’s Hawaii’s Four Island Adventure.

3. The Bahamas

If there’s one place that synonymous with ‘tropical islands’, it’s surely the Bahamas! Located to the east of Florida and north of Cuba with over 700 isles, beautiful views, white sand and crystal clear water, there’s enough tropical island to suit any kind of traveler.

Line up the coconuts and take in the blue skies, but avoid hurricane season from June through to November. Consider checking out the sparkling sands of Exuma and the friendly swimming pigs or escape on Cat Island, with only 1,500 residents over nearly 400km, you won’t find any large resorts here – just pure zen.

4. Thailand, South East Asia

With so much variety, history and beauty to be found in Thailand, it’s a struggle to leave this paradise of pristine beaches, dotted with chic beach shacks as far as the eye can see.

The ultimate place to beach hop (1430 islands to be exact) – here is a snapshot of some of the most popular islands and what to expect:

• Koh Samui is for families and first-timers, honeymooners and wellness warriors looking to escape to a mountainous rainforest or lie by one of its palm-fringed beaches. It’s filled with luxury resorts and world-class spas.
• Koh Tao has the best scuba diving and renowned for its tropical coral reefs and where green turtles gather to breed.
• Koh Pha Ngan is for the hedonists and hippies.. take ownership of a hammock and rock between palm trees, sipping on a coconut and watching the sun go down… or go wild at one of its infamous Full Moon Parties which draws in revelers from all over the world for the monthly festivities.
• Phuket is for living large, complete with 6-star resorts, fancy clubs and celebrity chef run restaurants amongst rainforest and mountains.
• Koh Phi Phi, made famous by The Beach starring Leo Di Caprio, the collection of six islands are perfect for the solo travelers and lovers alike. Featuring tropical beaches, stunning rock formations with colorful marine life.

Mix this up with the rich history and fascinating culture on Costsaver’s Iconic Thailand itinerary, from skyscrapers to street markets, plus ALL the Pad Thai and Nasi Goreng dishes waiting to be consumed.

5. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The thought of snorkeling with sea lions and turtles, kayaking whilst dolphins jump over you, and then hanging out with giant tortoises who are unfazed by human presence, just leaves me in all sorts. The best way to do it is on the Galapagos Legend Cruise, available on Trafalgar’s South America Revealed.

Cruise on a purpose built luxury expedition vessel. Offering the very best in boutique adventure cruises, travel for an intimate and personal glimpse into the stunning wildlife and habitats of the Islands, expect an educational and mesmerizing trip.

6. Scottish Isles

Not typically the place to expect white sandy beaches, yet here they are on the Scottish Isles and with crystal clear turquoise water to boot. A truly breathtaking option for island hopping, The Scottish Isles has a lot to offer for all kinds of travelers from whisky drinking, to mountain climbing and scenic drives up the coast.

With over 790 Scottish islands, only around 90 of them are inhabited, most of which are part of the Hebrides and the Northern Isles.

You can find some of the most excellently preserved Neolithic sites in Europe on the Orkney Isles, earning it the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Insight Vacations takes you from the great capital of Edinbugh to the Orkney Islands of Skye, travelling through 8000 years of history.

7. Madagascar, East Africa

Madagascar is a breathtaking paradise with majestic landscapes and jungles filled with colorful birds and animals, stunning rainforests, white sand beaches with sweet coastal villages and delicious local food. While it is expensive to reach, it’s very affordable once you get there.

Best way to explore Madagascar is with an all-inclusive vacation – your guide will be an amazing resource to tell you about the natural beauty of Madagascar, perfect for the wildlife lover and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

8. Ibiza, Spain

Fly in over the beach parties or arrive via ferry – either way, as soon as you land, the energy of this island is electrifying that it will be hard to leave.

As much as it’s renowned for its infamous day parties, DJs, beach clubs and lively nightlife – this is the island which has earned a reputation as a mecca of good times among celebrities and travelers alike after all – there is also a romantic and calm side to the island with quieter sandy coves and pine-clad hills, gorgeous villages filled with character and yoga retreats.

Old Ibiza Town is where the locals and Mediterranean tourists choose to reside, San Antonia is for the wild and young at heart. A must is to see the daylight hours out with sunset at the original Café del Mar. And consider a day trip to the idyllic isla of Formentera. Contiki packs this all in its Ibiza and Beyond trip.

9. Philippines

With over 7,600 tropical islands to choose from, to island hop and live comfortably off coconuts and pancit (noodles), staying in a beach shack, is my idea of heaven. Renowned for its white sands, turquoise waters and some of the world’s most diverse marine life.

Consider: El Nido, along with its views, is the gateway to ‘wild adventure’; Palawan Island ‘best in the world’ three years running by Travel + Leisure – rustic, romantic paradise, towering mountains, limestone caves and an underground river; Siargao, a remote and dreamy island, voted the ‘best island in the world’ by Conde Nast Traveler readers; and Boracay reclaims “Top Asian Island”, according to Conde Nast. Enough said #islandlife.

10. Martha’s Vineyard, America

To slow down the pace, Martha’s Vineyard is a small Massachusetts Island. Dotted with many gorgeous little towns worth the exploration, you can visit Edgartown to admire some posh old homes, Aquinnah for its pristine beaches and Chappaquiddick for its enthralling history.

A favorite of both the Kennedys and the Obamas for family vacations, Martha’s Vineyard is a stunning little place to unwind and enjoy some picturesque scenery.

Enjoy a memorable encounter with a pilgrimage past, sophisticated summer retreats and fresh seafood flavors on Trafalgar’s Boston, Cape Cod, and Martha’s Vineyard trip.

And that’s our roundup of the Top 10 best islands in the world to visit in 2021. There are so many exciting sites, cultural experiences, walks, wildlife, beaches and bars yet to be discovered… and so many more memories waiting to be created… and then later shared on social media #blessed #neverleaving.

Deciding where to go now? Check this link for the most up-to-date travel restrictions.

Traveling by train is a great way to see a destination and add variety to your mode of transport – from luxury journeys to speedy bullet trains and large regional rail networks, there’s a plethora of options to choose from. So, why not take the train for your next adventure?

Why is rail a great way to travel around the world?

There are a variety of reasons why you should explore travel via train – to change up the scenery, but more importantly, skip the traffic – sit back and relax with the panoramic views and not worry about a thing.

Often train travel allows you to see parts of a country you may have missed otherwise had you taken the motorway or a different route.  Great railway journeys are just that, it’s about the journey and what lies in between points A to B.

In countries like India and Japan, it just makes sense to use their rail networks for convenience and speed; while in Norway, Canada and Switzerland, it’s the best way to slow your pace down and enjoy the sights.

Here’s a collection of some of the world’s best train trips and answers your questions like the length of the journey? Where does it start and end?

Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

The Rocky Mountaineer is the iconic and scenic train ride through the Canadian Rockies and across Western Canada. While you can choose from three different journeys, the most popular route is a 2-day, 1-night journey from Vancouver to Banff or Lake Louise.

You won’t be sleeping on the train, but in lodges along the way in Whistler, Kamloops or Quesnel depending on your route.

The Rocky Mountaineer is renowned for its onboard experience in silver and gold leaf classes. Chances are you’ll only take this Canadian rail trip once as a bucket list item, so why not treat yourself to Gold Class? Travel in a cabin with a bi-level glass dome, oversized glass windows and a large viewing platform to take in what nature has to offer, plus enjoy gourmet meals and beverages.

Golden Eagle Luxury Trains

This luxury ride operates incredible journeys through Russia, Central and Eastern Europe, Mongolia, China, Central Asia and India – offering first-class customer service, elegant interior and an ever-changing room view.

With a wide selection or journeys, I’m sure you’re wondering where to start!

Looking to explore Italy and Switzerland in a unique way, by land, cruise AND rail? Consider an exclusive 4-day charter journey from Venice to Zurich that can be added at the end of a river cruise onboard a brand-new boutique ship. We’re talking about a one-of-a-kind adventure onboard Uniworld Boutique River Cruises’ S.S. La Venezia with extension on the Golden Eagle Danube Express, to extend your luxury journey.

Shinkansen Network, Japan

Known more commonly as “Bullet Trains”, Japan’s Shinkansen rail network is a series of sophisticated and high-speed trains, initially created to connect Tokyo to outer regions. There are now over nine train lines spread across the islands of Honshu, Kyushu and Hokkaido that can reach a maximum speed of 320km/h (199mp/h).

One of the best ways to experience the bullet trains for a speedy exploration of Japan is a JR rail pass, which will cover all the Shinkansen trains and local trains, except two. The bullet train experience is truly an exciting one as you stare out the window and watch the country whizz past is incredible. Plus, less time travelling means more time on the ground taking in all that Japan has to offer.

The Ghan, Australia

For over 90-years, The Ghan has been operating outback train crossings and is now considered the quintessential scenic train ride in Australia. The 3-day journey takes approximately 54-hours to complete just under 3,000 kilometers (1,865 miles) between Adelaide and Darwin.

Settle into your cabin and head off on the unforgettable Australian rail journey on this legendary ride. It’s all inclusive from the meals inspired by the local areas you’ll pass through, to the fine wine.

Hop off and stretch your legs to enjoy a range of off-train experiences along the way in Darwin, Katherine, Alice Springs and Manguri.

While it’s easy to enjoy the onboard amenities, don’t forget to look out the window at the vast, red outback!

Rovos Rail, Africa

Perhaps the most glamourous way to travel in Africa and voted one of the most luxurious rail experiences on the planet! This luxury train takes you back to an era of elegance with wood paneled overnight cabins, South Africa’s finest food and world-class service.

Certainly, a once-in-a-lifetime experience with an extensive rail network all over Africa, there are plenty of journeys to choose from ranging in length from 48-hours all the way up to 15-days.

Perhaps start your journey in Cape Town and travel up through the Cape Winelands to Pretoria, and from there, you can continue up to Victoria Falls. That’s just one of the many combinations available onboard Rovos Rail.

The Flåm Railway, Norway

Often cited as the “World’s Best Rail Journey”, The Flåm Railway is certainly an iconic and beautiful rail journey, so much so that it ranks as one of Norway’s top tourist attractions.

The 20-kilometer (12.4 mile) long journey travels through mountains and by waterfalls, starting in Flåm at the Sognefjord (at sea level) and arriving into Myrdal station (867 metres above sea level).

The one-way journey only takes one hour and upon arriving in Myrdal, travelers often take a walk or bike ride through the beautiful valley (weather permitting). From Myrdal, you can connect by rail to Bergen or Oslo for an onward journey.

To experience some of these great rail journeys around the world – visit these pages for more information on the train travel of your choice: Trafalgar, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, Insight Vacations, Lion World Travel, African Travel, Adventure World Travel, AAT Kings and Luxury Gold.

Dear Traveler,

There are times when we can actually see the curve of history unfolding around us. 2020 has been such a year, and by no means easy. Most painfully, many have lost loved ones to this awful pandemic. Many others have lost their jobs and face difficult hardships, including colleagues who started the year with us but are now, unfortunately, unemployed. For those of us who love to travel, it has been filled with delays and disappointments brought on by Covid-19. Suffice to say, while all of us at The Travel Corporation began 2020 with great anticipation of celebrating our first century as a family owned and run business, this was not the year any of us had imagined.

And yet, even bad years can bring good things. While physical travel was more limited than at any point in our lives, we have nevertheless traveled tremendous distances through time and memory. It has been our great joy each month this year for those of us at TTC to look back over this past century and share with you tales of how we began, who we have become, and why we do what we do.

Thus, anxious as we all are to turn the page on 2020 and to begin a gradual global recovery in 2021, we invite you to join us as we look back over the stories we’ve told this past year, so beautifully narrated by Vicki in our videos, and through the voices of guest writers in this series of blogs.

While this year was not how we had envisioned the start of our second century, those of us at TTC know well that great journeys do not always have easy beginnings. That was true for our founder, Solomon Tollman who, as a boy of fifteen, was forced to leave his home and family in Lithuania to escape oppression of life under the Czar. After being smuggled out in a train, he eventually arrived in London with nothing more than the few gold rubles his mother had sewn into his clothing. Six months later he traveled steerage class on a steam ship to Cape Town, South Africa. There he survived the last pandemic – the Spanish Flu of 1918-19 – and made his way up South Africa’s rugged west coast to the sleepy fishing village of Paternoster.

Solomon’s story was the first we told, in January’s blog posting by Brett Tollman, our Chief Executive, 100 Years of Being Driven by Service. Brett recounts how his Grandfather Solomon – Solly, as he was known – purchased and refurbished a run-down community center, and in 1920 welcomed the first guests to The Paternoster Hotel, shown above as it appears today. Difficult as his journey had been, Solly ran that hotel so as to give other travelers the welcome he himself had not received. That spirit gave rise to that business principle which guides all of us at TTC to this day: Driven by Service.

Love and travel are forever linked, and in February we shared a story from TTC’s Chairman, Stanley S. Tollman. A Valentine’s Day Tale of Love and Oysters tells of a memorable journey to Durban, the birth of his vision for TTC – and the moment he literally fell for Beatrice Lurie. A love story for the ages, she went on to become Mrs. Bea Tollman – his partner, fellow visionary, and the love of his life – they celebrated their 67th anniversary this past March.

Bea Tollman picked up the story in March for International Women’s Day with a blog post entitled The Secret Ingredient. Through the story of her own journey to become a master chef, founder of Red Carnation Hotels, and guiding visionary for Uniworld, she celebrates the crucial role that women always have – and always will – play in the success of TTC, through the passion they bring to their work.

In April we celebrated the 50th anniversary of Earth Month with Paradise Lost & Found by Shannon Guihan, Chief TreadRight & Sustainability Officer for TTC. In it, she tells of growing up in Paradise, Newfoundland, a town which lived up to its name. As she grew up, however, she saw the impact of tourism without forethought, where visitors trampled the very sights they had come to see. This led her to her life’s work, ensuring that travel is a force for good, and the ongoing work of The TreadRight Foundation.

In May, as the extent of the pandemic became clearer to us all, we naturally turned our attention to what matters most in life. Vicki Tollman, Executive Director of Red Carnation Hotels, wrote We Are Family, celebrating Mother’s Day in many countries around the world and the United Nations International Day of Families. In it, she reflects on being part of the Tollman family, of TTC’s family of brands, and of the many families within these families.

June brought the silence of the quietest travel season we had ever known, with virtually all trips cancelled. Difficult as this was, we realized this was an ideal time to reflect and appreciate the gift of travel, the places we have been fortunate to visit, the experiences we have had, and the people we have come to know. Travel is, after all about creating memories that last a lifetime, and this seemed like the right time to share some of these. We invited employees of TTC around the world to share tales from past journeys they are thankful to have made in Reflections of Gratitude, From Those of Us At TTC. These sentiments were echoed in June’s video, Gratitude, narrated by our Chairman, Stanley Tollman. Through his words and his calm, reassuring, and wise manner, one truly understands why he has come to be so widely recognized as both a successful entrepreneur and great statesman.

One of the great joys of travel is the friendships that arise from our journeys. In July we reached out to our travelers to gather stories of friendships they had made while traveling with us, as well as to our employees, for tales of friendships with each other, our partners, and with our guests. These became With a Little Help From Our Friends.

As a fourth generation family business, we are always looking toward the future. For August’s blog, we reached out to Brett’s daughter, Ella, who is currently a student at
NYU. A talented photographer, she shared some of her favorite travel shots in Bringing the Future Into Focus, recounting how her travels have shaped her world view, and how her camera has shaped her travels.

By September we were sorely missing our guests. We heard from many that they had been missing us as well, and that they had been flipping through scrapbooks and photos to remember past journeys. That encouraged us to do the same, sifting through letters, emails and photos we’ve received over the years. With their permission we shared some of these in Tales From Our Travelers.

Continual innovation is crucial in the world of travel, and it is what has guided us through our first century. For October’s blog we turned to a visionary leader, Gavin Tollman, CEO of Trafalgar, Costsaver, and Brendan Vacations. His blog posting, Innovation – the Key to Our Past, Our Present, and Our Future tells the stories behind some of the revolutionary innovations that have made these companies so successful. Not one to dwell in the past, he brought us up to the minute, sharing some of our current TTC innovations around health and well-being for our future travelers in this new era.

Finally, November brought us to what would have been the end of the 2020 travel season. As we have always done here at TTC, we turned our focus to the future, and more sustainable travel, through the “eyes” of our non-profit TreadRight Foundation, which we started over a decade ago to help protect and preserve what we love on our planet – its magnificent destinations, welcoming communities, and stunning wildlife – for future generations. In When We Travel Again we heard from three of the most inspired travelers in the world, Céline S. Cousteau – TreadRight’s Planet Ambassador, Sarain Fox – TreadRight’s People Ambassador, and Ami Vitale – TreadRight’s Wildlife Ambassador. Through photographs and stories, they helped all of us to think of how, when the time comes, we will Make Travel Matter more than ever.

With that, we thank you for joining us on this journey over this past year and through this past century, and return to the present moment, here at the tail end of 2020. Squinting a bit in search of the perspective one finds in reflecting on the past, we imagine what we might see on some future day when we look back on this year. Challenging and painful as 2020 has been for all of us, perhaps we may come to see it as a bridge – albeit a narrow one – that helped one another to cross, from the past to the future.

In that spirit, on behalf of all of our TTC family, we send our best wishes to you and yours for happy, healthy, and safe holidays and a new year, filled with light and love. We know none of us will take the joy of traveling to new destinations for granted again. May the year ahead bring better times, amazing journeys and rich experiences for you, our beloved travelers.

Sincerely,

The Tollman Family

Dear Traveler,

As we approach the end of 2020, we look back with a sigh at the year of travel that was not – then turn our focus to dreams of future travel.

Like you, those of us at The Travel Corporation have been watching closely for signs of progress on vaccines against Covid-19, even as we implement the innovations for traveler hygiene and wellbeing described by Gavin Tollman in October’s blog posting. While each of us will need to decide exactly when we are ready to journey onwards, one thing is clear – we will travel again. Difficult and frustrating as this year has been, it has not diminished our desire to travel. If anything, this time of limited movement and isolation has increased our desire for the freedom to explore distant destinations and rediscover the world.

For this month’s blog post, we thought it fitting to look forward, wondering what might be different when we do travel again. The challenges we face in life transform us, leading to learning and growth, and that is especially true with challenges of the magnitude of those we have been through this year, which have had such an impact on all of us.

How might this period of time shape our future travels?

For insights on this question, we turned to TreadRight’s Travel Ambassadors, Céline Cousteau, Sarain Fox, and Ami Vitale, three of the most inspired and inspiring travelers in the world. They represent the three pillars of our company’s non-profit, TreadRight Foundation – Planet, People, and Wildlife, respectively. We invited each to tell us a little about what this time of limited travel has been like for them – and their thoughts on when we travel again.

Céline S. Cousteau, TreadRight’s Planet Ambassador

As a documentary filmmaker and gifted storyteller, Céline has travelled the world working to help amplify the voices of the amazing individuals who are doing more to protect ecosystems, wildlife, and people. The daughter of ocean explorer and filmmaker Jean-Michel Cousteau and granddaughter of the legendary Jacques Yves Cousteau, Céline brings a profound understanding of the importance of legacy and the necessity to experience the world in a way that ensures future generations will have the opportunity to do the same. She has recently published her first book, in French, Le monde après mon grand-père (The World After My Grandfather).

“People protect what they love.”

This is what my grandfather taught us all. I believe this is why immersive travel experiences are so important, for they help us come to know our beautiful, fragile planet – and fall in love with it.

I have been thinking about this more lately, from my home in a small village in southern France. Since I returned here from travels last March, my journeys have been local, as you can see in this TreadRight video. As I write this, France has just entered a second lockdown.

We are but one of so many places that have slowed down or shut down now, which is especially difficult for communities worldwide that depend on travel and tourism. So many people are suffering, faced with uncertainty and loss of employment. While I am TreadRight’s Planet Ambassador, in truth it is impossible to see our planet as disconnected from people and wildlife too. During this pandemic I have thought particularly of the challenges faced by the women of Iraq-al-Amir, a TreadRight sponsored project in Jordan. Having worked with these women to build a business selling their beautiful, authentic creations to travelers, including guests of TTC brands such as Uniworld, Insight Vacations, Luxury Gold, Trafalgar, and Contiki, I know this past year has been exceedingly difficult for them.

Challenging as it has been, my hope is that this pandemic will serve as a reset for us humans, helping us to appreciate what a magnificent privilege travel is, and how fortunate we are to live on Earth. I have always thought of humans as just another species on our planet, one of many, but we’ve rarely seen ourselves in this light, nor have we treated our planet with the love it deserves. Now, as we see how an unseen virus can impact every country/culture/people/ population in the world, let us take this as a powerful reminder of just how interconnected we all are.

My hope is that when we do travel again, we will do so more thoughtfully, consciously, and intentionally. Businesses, for example, may discover that while some meetings ultimately require a flight half-way around the world, others can be as well accomplished on a video call. Travel should be special, a chance to go to places and have experiences that can only be done in person. And, when you do go somewhere – make the most of it.

This process of re-thinking travel is one that TreadRight and TTC have been engaged in since well before the pandemic. It led to the TreadRight Pledge to Make Travel Matter – if you’ve not yet taken it, I invite you to do so, as a guide to your future travels. But please, don’t just sign it – let it be a mantra that moves you to take action. I also invite you to look at the plan we have just released, How We Tread Right, our ambitious five year sustainability roadmap, which also identifies the 11 of the 17 United Nations’ sustainability goals which we will continue to contribute to and benefit. And, when we travel again, we will be introducing many more special Make Travel Matter (MTM) experiences over the next several years.

As you consider your future travels, I further invite you to think of the many ways to ensure your travel has a positive impact. Start by bringing your own water bottle and cutlery, as encouraged by our single use plastics elimination initiative. Rather than shopping for new clothes before you travel, buy them when you arrive, thereby supporting local businesses in these destinations. Give back to local initiatives when you can as well.

Most of all, when you do travel, take the time to really connect with the people you meet. Listen to their stories, then bring them back to share with others. So you – like my grandfather and I – can be an ambassador for our planet, helping others learn to love and protect it – when we travel again.

Sarain Fox – TreadRight’s People Ambassador

Born in Batchawana First Nation in Canada, Sarain Fox is an Anishinaabe dancer, broadcaster, and activist and one of Canada’s most prominent Indigenous voices. She has worked professionally as a dancer and is a graduate of the New York Film Academy. Sarain’s work is rooted in her passion to represent and lift up Indigenous people and her commitment to climate justice, which includes her position as a board member for the Center of Biodiversity. Sarain believes that everything we do in our lives should contribute to positive change.

When I was two years old, my mother did something radical. She gave me a name. Not the kind of name that goes on your birth certificate – a name to connect me to our people, who are storytellers.

Wabunangokwe.

It is a name with many meanings – Truth teller. Reconciler. The star in the East. Light at the end of the dark.

As TreadRight’s People Ambassador, it is my privilege and responsibility to be all these things, starting by telling you the truth about how this pandemic has impacted native communities we support. While not an easy truth, per the other meaning in my name, there is light at the end of the dark.

For my people, this is not our first pandemic. As with so many indigenous tribes just a century or two ago, those early settlers arrived with diseases including tuberculosis and small pox that killed many of our people. Some of these were intentional, offering infected blankets as “gifts.” Our grandparents tell stories of these times. They therefore make us sensitive to what we may bring with us, whether we know it or not, when we travel.

Covid-19 is a virus that teaches us all this same lesson. We must all become more conscious of what we carry with us when we travel. As the name TreadRight implies, this is our purpose. While I’ve always tried to be a conscious traveler, these past months have given me an even greater understanding and appreciation of what it means to have the privilege of visiting another person’s homeland, knowing the harm we can do if we are not careful.

TreadRight exists to make travel a force for good, as in the example of a project I have worked with here in Toronto, Manitobah Mukluks Storyboot School.

Based at the Bata Shoe museum, the project is a win-win situation. Artisans create beautiful footwear, and receive one hundred per cent of the proceeds from their work. What’s more, they teach traditional methods to indigenous students and visitors from around the world, so the culture is passed on. It has been a regular stop for guests of TTC companies such as Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, Contiki, and Costsaver. The picture above is of me learning from my dear friend Sage Petahtegoose, a craftswoman and teacher at the school. You can also see a short video we made about the school here.

The arrival of Covid-19 instantly ground the classes to a halt, shutting down the program. Very soon, sixty per cent of the staff, including Sage, were laid off. I think of the challenges that Sage and others have faced with the loss, both of income and of shared culture. This is just one of many such TreadRight programs around the world promoting indigenous culture through crafts, including Centro de Textiles Tradicionales del Cusco, (Peru), Ock Pop Tok Village Weavers (Laos), and Tria, Etc. (Greece). All these programs await the return of travelers, though I am pleased to confirm that TreadRight did fund all of its projects this year.

And yet, such challenging times bring gifts as well. I have noticed that with offices closed and people working from home, vulnerability has become more acceptable. We are becoming more honest about who we are – our race, our gender, our diversity. Now is a time when we are invited to see the truth. This attitude toward openness and honesty is good for the world. It lets us open our doors to the world and share our stories.

This has been the case for me, personally, as a storyteller. I have long meant to make a documentary telling the stories of my Auntie Marie, the oldest living matriarch in my family. I have just completed “Inendi,” which tells her story. What’s more, as you can see in the picture below, I was able to hire Sage as camerawoman for the film, another outlet for her creative spirit.

This is the way it is in hard times – even when doors are closed, the creative spirit finds a way. That is the spirit which keeps me optimistic. It is the star in the east, the light at the end of the dark, and the one that will guide us – when we travel again.

Ami Vitale, TreadRight’s Wildlife Ambassador

Ami Vitale’s journey as a photographer, writer and filmmaker has taken her to over 100 countries where she has witnessed civil unrest and violence, but also surreal beauty and the enduring power of the human spirit. Ami is a founding member of Ripple Effect Images, a collective of scientists, writers, photographers and filmmakers with a mission of creating powerful stories illustrating the very specific issues women in developing countries face. She is also an Ambassador for Nikon and a National Geographic magazine photographer, explorer and speaker. Her talks shed light on the conservation value that tourism holds for wildlife – when done right.

Nature has sent us a strong message with this pandemic, reminding us just how small and deeply interconnected our world is. This is a powerful moment to reimagine our relationship to nature and to one another.

In the early days of the pandemic, we were hearing heartwarming stories. It seemed that wildlife was getting a much needed break from humans and thriving in the era of lockdowns. Finally, we thought, animals were able to roam freely in our cities and national parks!

Unfortunately, the reality was much different. Tourism is what has largely funded major conservation projects around the world, protecting wildlife, restoring habitats and creating awareness. When travel crashed this past spring, so did the much needed protection for these animals and ecosystems. Contrary to popular belief, an empty national park is not always a good thing for wildlife. During this pandemic we have seen a dramatic rise in poaching in wildlife parks. What people need to understand is that tourism is what keeps wildlife alive in many parts of the world – including giant pandas, as in my photograph below – and international travel is essential for that. You can see examples of this connection in TreadRight projects such as Wildlife SOS, the WCS Big Cat Fund, and The Endangered Wildlife Trust.

When we travel again, I hope people will focus on traveling responsibly, to destinations that act to sustain wildlife areas, choosing companies that put money back into supporting habitats and ecosystems. We may also wish to think about the range and pace of our travels. When we go abroad, rather than trying to see it all, we need to slow down and really engage with one place at a time. In addition to reducing our environmental footprint, this kind of travel is what allows us to truly build relationships with people and places, creating authentic connections.

My own travels have slowed dramatically since the start of the pandemic. I have lived out of my suitcase and on the road for many years, and for the past few years have been home no more than 21 days in a year. The pandemic changed all that overnight, as it did for the rest of the world, when my work came to a grinding halt.

Difficult as this has been, there has been an upside as well. Like so many these times, I have turned my attention to exploring my own back yard. For me, that is Montana, which is rich in wildlife, as you can see in this TreadRight video and the photograph at the very top of this blog, as well as the one below, taken in Centennial Valley.

While this pandemic has been devastating in so many ways, it has also shown us how we are able to unite and act as individuals for the collective good. This is a moment when we can look outside ourselves and take individual action for the good of the planet. With the sudden stopping of travel this year, I wanted to find a way to raise much needed funds for communities and conservation. I reached out to some of my favorite photographers and asked for their support to start a fine art prints sale. Have a look at Printsfornature.com, where you’ll see stunning prints by some of the most acclaimed photographers in the world, who have all donated their work. All these prints are available for purchase for holiday gift giving, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting Conservation International. It is a unique way to collect fine art for a fraction of what it normally costs, and your purchase will be helping wildlife around the planet.

In the end, saving nature is really about saving ourselves. Our fates are linked and interconnected. We all need to do all we can to care for the plants and critters that inhabit the earth. They are fellow travelers, and our only friends, in this cold dark universe. Our future happiness depends on them.

Let us keep that in mind – when we travel again.

When We Travel Again

We shall go forth

with renewed gratitude

for the amazing gift that travel can be –

and the awe that comes from

finding ourselves at home

in places we have never been.

When We Travel Again…

We will see the world through new eyes

and deepened appreciation

for this truly magnificent planet we all share.

Not only will we take in the sights,

but we will hear the sounds. Breathe in the smells.

And savor the tastes – all waiting to be experienced.

When We Travel Again…

We will do so with renewed joy and purpose –

Joy as we create memories that last a lifetime,

and purpose that comes from knowing our travels

play a crucial role in the recovery

of communities we visit

around the world.

When We Travel Again…

We will venture forth with open hearts,

letting ourselves be guided

by wonder and curiosity

ready to connect to those we meet along the way –

our hosts, our guides, and our fellow travelers,

joined together in a journey of discovery.

When We Travel Again…

We will make travel matter more than ever before.

Knowing that how we travel

is just as important as where,

As we explore this wild and precious planet we call home,

Meet people around the globe who welcome us into their homes.

And discover magnificent wild creatures whose homes we visit.

When We Travel Again…

We will journey to places both near and far with those we love –

our partners, our parents,

our children, and grandchildren

and dear friends, some we’ve known for years –

and others we have yet to meet,

making memories all over the world.

When the time is right,

We shall go forth again.

Until then, we shall do what we have always done –

and dream of distant shores.

For while something deep inside us sleeps,

We know the sleeper will awaken –

When We Travel Again.

What is a Destination Management Company (DMC)?

The travel industry is a very big place. You may have worked in it for many years and still never heard of a destination management company. If you haven’t, though, you could be missing out on some important business opportunities. 

To celebrate The Travel Corporation’s expansion of our DMC offering, we’re giving the low-down on these crucial pieces of the travel and tourism puzzle. Let’s take a look.

What is a DMC?

A destination management company is an enterprise that manages a range of products and services at a popular travel destination. Put very simply, they’re the companies that make travel experiences work. Whether you’re looking for someone to provide a safari trip, coach tours, cruises, catering or just about any other travel service you can name, it’s a DMC that makes it happen.

DMCs are usually smaller, local organizations that have been on the ground at a destination for years. They bring crucial local knowledge and experience to a travel enterprise, giving international partners the insight they need to create safe and exciting products.

What services can they help me with?

Name any travel experience and you’ll find a DMC out there that can provide it for you. The obvious services they provide are travel experiences that might require specialized equipment or skills, like coach tours, flotilla holidays or safaris. But they can also provide a huge range of smaller services that make the holiday planning experience a lot smoother. These include things like airport pickups and transfers, accommodation bookings, vehicle rental, catering or event management. If you’re looking to provide a really unique experience, such as bungee jumping, rainforest hikes or exclusive entry to local sights, the easiest way to provide it is by going through a DMC.

Why work with a DMC?

Destination Management Companies have two crucial benefits: they’re experts in the local area and specialists in the particular services that they offer. That means that you, as a travel professional, don’t have to be. Working with a DMC allows you to book any experience in any location around the world in the confidence that it will be delivered safely and to a high standard. 

However, the benefits don’t end there. Most DMCs have been running their travel businesses successfully for decades. That means they have localized knowledge about what works and what doesn’t in their region. They know that this road is usually flooded in summer, or that the best views of that valley are at sunrise – the secrets that you simply can’t know. That allows you to create better travel experiences that are more likely to do well in a competitive market.

Finally, many DMCs operate a huge range of different services or have partners that do so. That means that they can act as a one-stop shop when you’re creating a travel package. Bring on a DMC partner and there’s a good chance they can book just about everything you’ll need.

Who hires a DMC?

DMCs are a critical piece of the puzzle for international travel agents. If you’re building a travel product with inclusive services, a destination management company will help you put all the pieces together and plug any logistical gaps. They’re also perfect if you’re building something completely new for the market; they’ll offer a great perspective on the most successful travel experiences in the region.

DMCs are also ideal if you’re creating bespoke travel packages for an exclusive clientele. The huge range of services they provide allows you to be more flexible and plan more complex itineraries. And when your client’s needs change, the DMC is there to help you adapt on the fly, providing services as and when you need them.

DMCs are a big help no matter how you work. To learn more about what DMCs can do for you here at TTC, take a look at our services page. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is.

Why use a destination management company (DMC)?

DMCs are excellent service providers. But if you’ve never worked with one before, it’s easy to think that services are the only way they can add value to your business. On the contrary, destination management companies are perfectly placed to offer a huge range of benefits to travel agents, agencies and providers. They’re also in an ideal position to help you make your travel product a commercial success.

That’s why we’re taking you through eight of the most important functions a DMC can provide. This post is essential reading if you’re considering working with a DMC partner anywhere in the world; it’ll help you get that much more from your relationship. Let’s dive right in.

They can bring knowledge only locals can provide

In the travel industry, there’s often a disconnect between the provider and the destination itself. Sure, you can go online and book any product or service on the other side of the world. But you won’t have any real idea of what the experience is like, what the common pitfalls are and what local factors might influence the outcome. 

DMC providers are the key to unlocking quality local experiences. They can tell you the best times to visit, the essential experiences to have there, and how to keep the trip safe and comfortable. That kind of knowledge can help elevate your travel product to the next level.

They know their services better than us

DMC partners bring the same level of expertise to their services as they do their local region. As a travel professional, your skillset is in creating and selling incredible travel products – you can’t be expected to know which river cruise in South Africa is best for hippo-spotting. Your DMC partner, however, does. They’ll let you know which services will provide the experiences you’re looking for. And, most importantly, they’ve got decades of experience delivering exactly that, whether it’s coach tours, cruises or something as simple as a flight transfer.

One partner for every service

Each DMC we work with here at TTC provides a range of services. Sure, they may be specialists in one thing or another, but a short conversation will show you just how far they can go to make your product a success. That means that you’ll only need one partner in every region you visit. Why book coach tours, airport transfers, accommodation and event tickets separately when you can get it all done with just one phone call? What’s more, a DMC partner can give you insight into what services you’ll need, helping you to plug gaps or bringing new considerations to your attention. 

They can help you in an emergency

The great range of services DMCs offer is extremely handy in a pinch. Got a challenging customer on your hands? Your DMC partner is ready to offer experiences on the fly when their needs change. That’s perfect for exclusive clients who expect top-tier service. And because they’ve been working with customers for decades, you’ll know that the level of service they provide is top-rate. Your DMC will end up being your best friend in-country, helping you to react to client’s changing needs. On top of this, most of our DMCs provide emergency preparedness and relief services, giving you much more to work with if something does go wrong.

They bring commercial insight

Each of our DMC partners is a successful business in its own right. That’s important – it means that they’ve got a good feel for the kinds of experiences people want in their local region. And they know how to provide them, too. When it comes to creating new products or custom itineraries, they know exactly what kinds of things will get customers excited. That kind of insight is crucial if you’re launching a brand-new travel product or entering a new market. By combining your knowledge, you’ll be able to craft a powerful value proposition that others will find difficult to compete with.

They can give you those hard-to-find marketing assets

It’s your job to get your travel experience sold. That means you’ll need to collect a great deal of marketing collateral to make it run. Photos, videos, testimonials and data are essential for competing in the busy market of travel products. Each of our DMCs already has that material ready to go. And what’s more, you know it’s effective – they’ve been using it for decades to generate interest for their successful businesses. One phone call can put a huge range of powerful marketing assets at your fingertips, saving you the money and time you’d need to source them yourself.

They can help you stay on brand

Many of our DMC partners offer their services on a white-label basis. That means you can produce a massive range of experiences under your own brand without having to own the assets yourself. You can put your own logo on coach tours, river cruises, safaris, expeditions – whatever your itinerary demands. And you can do so knowing that the quality of every service will be just as good as the ones you provide yourself. Each of our DMCs works with the best customer-service representatives their region has to offer.

Book with confidence in your own currency

This is an extra-special benefit that applies only to The Travel Corporation DMC network. Because our partners operate under one banner, they’re protected by the financial security of the whole company. That means that you can pay for services in whatever currency suits you best. You can book with the confidence that your partner isn’t going to go into liquidation overnight. Everything is backed by our rigorous financial standards and operating practices, so you know that your investment is safe with every booking. 

Not enough for you? Learn more about what a DMC partner can do for you by getting in touch with us. Every partner is a little different, but they’re all ready to help you make your next travel project a success.

White-sand beaches, incredible food and more history than one can explore in a lifetime – Greece is truly a dream holiday destination. For that reason, it attracts a lot of attention from travel brands. If you want to create a successful travel product in Greece, you’re going to have to think carefully about how to make it extra-special.

Fortunately, The Travel Corporation is here to help. We’ve been working with destination management companies in Greece for over 20 years. This week, we’re bringing you some inside info on how to properly build out a successful travel package in Greece. Let’s dive right in.

Find out what makes successful products work in Greece

Every travel company has a different audience. And every audience has different needs. Figuring out what they are is the key to creating a successful product. That means that you’re going to have to bring a lot of your own knowledge to the product creation process. Understanding your top-performing packages should be an ongoing process in your company. Now is a good time to review the data you have on them and set the frame for a successful product.

But your own knowledge isn’t enough. You also need to find out what products are successful in your chosen country. When it comes to Greece, the most successful holidays combine beach activities, culture and nightlife for an exciting and varied experience. Sailing is a key draw across the Greek islands, so consider adding day cruises or extended boating trips to your itinerary. The Greek villa is also a critical part of a dream holiday for many visitors to Greece, so you’ll want to think carefully about accommodation options.

Identify your business needs

The next step in building a travel package is understanding where the shortcomings in your current product lineup lie. Do you need more off-season stays? Longer bookings? Added experience bundles? Wherever you have gaps, you can map them to your in-country options. For example, Greece’s historical landmarks are open year-round; you could try building a history and culture package that attracts group bookings in the off-season. Or, if you want to capitalize on high-season traffic, consider building a family beach getaway package on a remote Greek island.

Pick your partner

It’s a good idea to onboard a services partner as early as possible in the planning stages of your product. That’s because they’re great at helping partners to build out their value proposition and suggest exciting experiences that can make your offer more compelling. They have the local knowledge about which accommodations, destinations and experiences sell the best, so make sure to take advantage of their insight.

Our Destination Management Companies have decades of experience building holidays in the region. They’re perfectly placed to help you create all sorts of successful products, from flotilla sailing holidays to luxury retreat experiences. Visit our Greece page for a full list of in-country DMC partners.

Plan your marketing strategy

Marketing is your specialty – you probably already have a great idea of what strategies work. However, don’t forget that your DMC partner is a great asset here, too. They can help you find all the marketing assets you need, from on-location imagery to key feature information. Make sure you get in touch before you launch your campaign – it could save you a lot of headaches.

For more information about building highly successful travel products in Greece, get in touch with The Travel Corporation today. We can help you build an experience that will take your brand to new heights.