The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) is warning England fans about…
The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) is warning England fans about buying World Cup tickets through unofficial channels as World Cup fever heats up.
The only way football fans can be 100% sure that they will get the tickets they pay for is if they book tickets through the official FIFA or FA channels, or by buying a hospitality package with an official third party agent. Booking through brokers can be hazardous as FIFA can injunct these companies, prevent them from selling on the tickets and this can result in disappointment, said Keith Betton, ABTA`s Head of Corporate Affairs.
However, customers are guaranteed to get what they booked if they use one of the four UK-based ABTA members who have been appointed official third party agents for hospitality packages. These are: ATP International, Mike Burton Sports Travel, Sportsworld, and Thomas Cook Sport.
These packages do not come cheap, but customers can choose from a number of options. Firstly there is a `Follow your Team` package, which starts at 5,000 euros. This comes in a three, five or seven match package, which dependent on your choice will either take you through the group games, the quarter-finals or right through to the final. If England gets knocked out, you can switch to follow the team that beat them. Secondly, you can choose a venue-based package, which allows you to see between three to six matches at one stadium only. Thirdly, you can opt for a single match package at whatever venue you choose. Groups for this type of booking are limited.
Demand for tickets and travel to Germany before and during the tournament will be high as the history between England and Germany is renowned and venues relatively easy to get to. As a result, 100,000 Brits are expected to head to the tournament, and flight and room prices will be accordingly high. ABTA advises to book early and to consider all the options. For example, fans could use alternative transport – including driving and using the trains and ferries, while accommodation could be found in towns near the football venues as Germany has one of the best public transport network in Europe.
ABTA also reminds fans to make sure they have the free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which replaced the E111 (which entitles holders to free emergency medical treatment) as well as comprehensive travel and medical insurance.
England`s group games will be held in Frankfurt, Nuremburg and Cologne – all of which are fascinating cities. Frankfurt is the financial capital of Germany and its affluence is reflected in the city`s buildings. Nuremburg is a beautiful medieval town situated in the heart of the wine growing area of Bavaria, while Cologne is one of the high spots of any trip to Germany with stunning churches and historic buildings and some of Europe`s best nightspots.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
