Ten Travel Associates advisors recently headed on a famil to Antarctica with Aurora Expeditions as part of the brand’s exclusive famil program. The program focuses on providing advisors with the opportunity to enhance their knowledge of brands and destinations, exclusively alongside their Travel Associates colleagues.
Rachel Kingswell, General Manager, Travel Associates Australia/New Zealand said famils like these are key to providing advisors with the tools to curate one-of-a-kind experiences for clients.
“We’re committed to investing in the experience of our people and at the same time, driving value back to our most loved suppliers.”
“Antarctica is such a special destination, but given it’s only accessible via small cruise ships, it’s rare for advisors to get the opportunity to go on famils there, so we’re really grateful to Aurora for taking ten of our advisors there.”
Kingswell said the brand’s bookings to Antarctica have increased by 50% on the prior year-to-date, echoing the industry-wide demand for more immersive luxury holiday experiences.
“Our clients are discerning luxury travellers who are increasingly redefining what luxury means to them. Often, they’ve experienced the white glove service, the champagne on arrival and dinner at hatted restaurants, so now they want the luxury amenities, but paired with the unique, immersive experience.
“Because of this demand it’s important that our advisors are familiar with the destination and the cruise lines sailing there so they can give invaluable first-hand knowledge to clients.”
Lisa Clarke from Lewis & Turner Travel Associates was among one of the advisors on board and said it was “an unforgettable adventure.”
“From boarding the Zodiacs to every staff member knowing your name, everything was so effortless, and we really felt like we were part of the Aurora family,” she said.
“There were many quiet spaces for you to just absorb your surroundings or curl up with a good book. The library had the best view, as it was at the front of the ship. The Observation Lounge, again, had fabulous views and was a lovely spot for a sundowner or an after-dinner drink.
“It’s these intricate details that you can only truly relay the magic of if you’ve been on board.”
