…
Capitalising on the increased interest in activity holidays in Europe, leading adventure travel company World Expeditions has acquired European hiking and cycling specialist and operator Sherpa Expeditions as of 1 January 2012.
UK-based Sherpa Expeditions was launched in 1973 by offering trips to Nepal, however the last decade has seen the company put its emphasis on destinations closer to home, with a fine range of self guided and guided walks and cycle trips throughout the UK and Europe.
Sherpa Expeditions’ offering will complement the product of World Expeditions’ European division, UTracks, who also caters for travellers interested in activity holidays in Europe and the UK. Together, the two brands will offer a choice of more than 300 itineraries covering more than 25 countries, from Iceland to Malta and from the Canary Islands to Cyprus.
UTracks recently launched its new brochure for 2012, which features over 40 new trips, including more options for families, new bike and sail itineraries, less known regions of the Mediterranean, as well as a selection of trips in Morocco, UTracks’ very first destination outside Europe.
For the time being, Sherpa Expeditions and UTracks will continue operating as two separate companies. World Expeditions plans to consolidate the UTracks and Sherpa brands by the end of 2012.
Commenting on the acquisition, Gordon Steer, UK Manager for World Expeditions, said: "We are thrilled that World Expeditions and Sherpa Expeditions have joined forces. Walking and cycling holidays in Europe may still be regarded as a novelty by some but are one of the fastest growing sectors in the tourism industry. In particular, self guided travel is increasing at proportions that outpace any other segment. This union is therefore important in cementing our position as one of the leading suppliers of European active holidays, where the trips are generally operated by us ensuring total quality control and a focus on providing exceptional experiences for our travellers".
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
