The highly anticipated Africa and Middle East Roadshow, organized by Goway, launched at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in downtown Toronto. This successful event attracted over 150 travel advisors, showcasing 27 suppliers who presented a variety of destinations across Africa and the Middle East.
Engagement and Education for Travel Advisors
Travel advisors attending the event provided overwhelmingly positive feedback, highlighting the immense value of direct interaction with Destination Management Companies (DMCs). These interactions offered unique insights that are crucial for effectively selling these diverse destinations. Moira Smith, Goway’s Vice President for Africa and Asia, mentioned that this event was their first in three years, presenting an opportunity for advisors to reconnect and expand their knowledge.
The festivities began with a spirited ping-pong event at Spin Toronto, and a series of virtual educational sessions engaged nearly a thousand travel advisors on Monday. Tuesday’s packed agenda included comprehensive destination presentations that delivered invaluable information and practical tips for booking trips for clients.
Goway’s Expanding Portfolio: Insights from Travel Advisors
In a recent discussion, Moira Smith indicated a notable rise in interest from various travel consortiums, including TTAND and Ensemble, as well as independent agents. Many established agents, previously focused on destinations like the South Pacific, are now eager to explore the possibilities in African travel. This trend reflects a broader shift among travel advisors actively seeking to enhance their expertise to better serve clients.
The presence of 27 destination suppliers at the Roadshow included representatives from countries such as South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Kenya, among others, expanding the spectrum of options available to Canadian travelers.
During conversations with travel advisors, several expressed appreciation for the extensive product information available, which greatly assists them in crafting informed travel experiences for their clients.
Venturing into New Territories
Goway has significantly broadened its offerings in recent years. In 2020, they expanded into West Africa, launching routes to Ghana, Togo, and Benin, which fill a crucial gap in mainstream tour options. Plans to introduce new locations, including Ethiopia and improved connections in Southern Africa, are underway.
Smith highlighted a marked surge in interest for destinations like Dubai, which has transformed from a two or three-night stopover to an average stay of six nights. Despite recent geopolitical challenges, Goway is redirecting travelers to appealing alternatives in Egypt and Jordan.
Feedback from solo female travelers returning from Egypt has been positive, with many expressing feelings of safety and a fulfilling overall experience in the region.
Changing Travel Preferences
Today’s travelers are increasingly looking for immersive experiences rather than standard trips. This “globetrotter” mentality has propelled interest in blending multiple destinations into single trips. Popular combinations now include visits to both Jordan and Egypt, or South Africa alongside Zambia’s Victoria Falls.
The response to Saudi Arabia from travel advisors has been particularly encouraging, with many expressing interest in the diverse offerings now available. Insights from product managers who visited recently have dispelled common misconceptions about customs, revealing a welcoming atmosphere and a plethora of experiences.
New Collaborations and Expansion Plans
Several operators and DMCs, including Exo Travel and Saudi Arabia Tourism, are forming new alliances to enhance travel offerings. Amanda Pilar, the Sales Director for North America at Exo Travel, emphasized their commitment to crafting tailored itineraries for unique travel experiences. This sentiment is echoed in feedback from other operators, with travelers expressing an interest in diving deeper into diverse Middle Eastern cultures by exploring neighboring markets like Egypt, Jordan, and Oman.
As international travel resumes, Goway is poised to facilitate many rewarding journeys, directing interest towards underrepresented destinations such as Oman and Saudi Arabia.
Conclusions
The Africa and Middle East Roadshow hosted by Goway has successfully revitalized interest in travel to these regions, fostering connections among travel advisors and DMCs. With an array of new destinations and a shift in traveler preferences toward immersive experiences, Goway is positioned to meet the growing demand for personalized travel adventures.
