China is emerging as a serious contender as a destination as well as its UK/Europe connectivity.
Wendy Wu Tours regional md Paul Dymond says Kiwi demand for China remains strong and with its air routes not as affected as much as main trunk routes to Europe it still has flight availability.
“We are still seeing [China] as our number one seller this month. There has been a slight softening of enquiry, but we are still ahead of last year and last year was our record-breaking year, so that’s still good to see.”
Dymond says China offers Kiwis exotic experiences they can’t get in New Zealand, Australia or the Pacific Islands. “You’ve got amazing futuristic cities, you’ve got vast areas of national parks and dramatic scenery, all within 11 hours flight time from New Zealand.”
It’s also visa-free, and Dymond adds the Kiwi dollar is still reasonably strong against Asian currencies.
. . . No Surcharge
And, set to further bolster it’s appeal, is a no surcharge policy, which Wendy Wu has introduced for its global group tours going ahead.
“We are guaranteeing if you put down your $2000 deposit to include your air, even if it’s out of date range, we will honour the brochure price. We need to make sure our clients feel secure and confident about booking.”
. . . Stopovers
Dymond says there’s great connections via Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing and Guangzhou for clients heading on to Europe. Wendy Wu’s offers short stay options, such as a two-night Great Wall Hike which explores an unrenovated section of the wall.
“They get this really authentic experience without the crowds, so great for Kiwis who really do like a long walk.”
He also recommends a few days in Guangzhou, saying clients will be amazed at how futuristic, clean and full of culture the city is, as well as Taiwan. “There’s plenty of options for Kiwis who want to see somewhere different on the way to Europe.”
His advice for agents is to look to carriers and ports that are less popular with this market, which he says still have good capacity, citing EVA Air, Turkish Airlines, and Air China as a few examples. “It’s thinking outside the square.”
Booking early is also encouraged, given the current state of the world. See Wendy Wu’s China offerings HERE, or chat with Dymond in at the upcoming Travel Information Sessions, details HERE.
