Creating custom group trips can be a lucrative business for travel advisors, but it requires a strategic approach. Ricarda Haeger, Avanti’s director of group sales and operations, emphasizes the importance of building relationships with organizations, clubs, and businesses that align with the advisor’s chosen niche. Whether it’s food, wine, history, religion, or sports, advisors should research and identify a niche they are passionate about and understand well. By tapping into these niche markets, advisors can create unique and tailored itineraries that cater to the specific interests of their group clients.
Haeger also suggests enlisting a “pied piper” who can help market the itinerary in exchange for a commission. This could be someone within the group’s community who is well-connected and can help promote the trip to potential travelers. By leveraging these local connections, advisors can expand their reach and attract more clients to their custom group trips.
When creating custom group trips, advisors must pay attention to the needs and preferences of the group’s size and makeup. Choosing hotels with the necessary amenities, such as a large lobby, enough elevators, and parking space for a motorcoach, is essential for ensuring a smooth and comfortable travel experience. Additionally, selecting guides who are well-suited for the group, such as being good with children for family groups, can significantly enhance the overall trip experience.
Partnering with an established tour operator like Avanti can also be beneficial for travel advisors, especially those who are just starting out. These tour operators have the experience and expertise in working with different properties and operators on the ground, which can streamline the planning process for advisors. By collaborating with a trusted tour operator, advisors can ensure that their custom group trips are well-organized and seamlessly executed.
Custom group trips present a valuable opportunity for travel advisors to expand their business and offer unique experiences to their clients. By focusing on niche markets, building strong relationships, and paying attention to the specific needs of group travelers, advisors can create successful and memorable custom group trips that cater to the diverse interests of their clients.