Of course 2009 has been a rough year for a lot of companies, what’s your take on the current consumer mind-set?
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Evan Chan,
Ritz Tours |
Right now, I think everybody is in conservation mode. They are not going to spend what they don’t have. They are keeping more cash in reserve just in case, and they are really cutting back on luxury purchases. Fortunately, at Ritz, we have some incredible deals — without a doubt these are the best offers I’ve seen in a long time. Plus, there are deals with five-star hotels that are just outrageous.
What part of China do you see as up and coming?
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Travelers can try on traditional garments and pose in front of this pagoda built on top of the Stone Forest near Kunming. //
© 2009 Eric Chan |
I think Yunnan province is really amazing. There is the Stone Forest near Kunming. There is the town of Dali, where a lot of China’s minority people live. Plus, there is Lijiang, which is one of the most incredible cities in the world, and in fact is a Cultural World Heritage Site. In Lijiang’s old town, you can walk streets that have remained unchanged for 700 years.
Do you offer a trip to this part of China?
Definitely. We have the Yunnan Special, a six-night itinerary that includes airfare with Cathay Pacific for just $1,399.
As you look ahead to next year, what do you expect to be major themes at Ritz?
For us, 2010 will be all about value and value-added. And we’re going to make it easy for agents and consumers to find our affordable trips. They won’t have to search for the latest specials or promotions. This will just be the norm for all our trips.
Any special programs for 2010?
We’re going to continue our Risk-Free Booking program, which was a big hit this year. On our three most popular trips — China Discovery, Yangtze Essence and China Scenic — as long as you have two people that want to go, we will guarantee all departures. So, with just two people you can be sure we’ll go no matter what. Travelers don’t want that element of uncertainty, and we understand that and want to make it easier for the agent and the client.
Will you continue to expand your Europe program in 2010?
Yes, we’re planning our Europe itineraries for 2010 now. It’s been very exciting to get those going. I’m sure we’ll have more news on that soon.
