Business Class, intergenerational travel are strong, reports Eurobound.
France, Spain, and Italy are hot sellers this spring and summer, reports Eurobound, specialists in distinctive itineraries and packages to Europe for individuals and small groups.
Together, the three countries are largely responsible for Eurobound’s nearly 25% increase in 2015 dollar sales, says Brigitte Armand, President of Eurobound. According to Eurobound, a strong dollar and a consumer desire for greater cultural immersion, along with the company’s ability to create custom experiences, are fueling growth. Also selling well are the company’s competitively-priced net business class fares, sold in conjunction with Eurobound’s vacation packages, reports Ms. Armand.
Best-Selling Regions
Within France – Normandy, Loire Valley, Provence and the French Riviera are in high demand; while in Spain, Catalonia and the Basque region are the most popular sellers. Italy – another favorite – is also doing well in general. In contrast, Eurobound notes that Russia has seen a drop-off in sales.
Private, Intergenerational Experiences in demand
Eurobound is seeing strong repeat business from intergenerational family groups who want to visit a new destination in depth. “They may have visited France two years ago, and now want to see Italy,” says Ms. Armand. “These family groups are seeking personalized experiences and life enrichment. They are looking for authentic cultural experiences – from art to history and gastronomy to nature – to share with their children.”
As part of the personalized experience, Eurobound provides family groups with private airport transfers, chauffeured transportation, and their own private tours and guides.
Chocolate Shops, Fencing, and Bike Riding
For instance, a two-week custom itinerary to France for a family of six, provides a range of experiences, from bike riding in the Loire Valley to a helicopter flight in Normandy. The package begins in Paris with five nights at the Grand Hotel du Palais Royal, and goes on to visit the Loire Valley, Normandy, and Chantilly.
In Paris, among private experiences are a Seine River yacht trip, a tour of Versailles, a guided visit of Notre Dame and the Louvre, and an insider’s guide of the best chocolate shops.
Outside Paris, private experiences range from a fencing lesson in the Loire Valley, and a visit to Clos Luce, former house of Leonardo Da Vinci to a private full-day bike tour of the Loire valley, including a picnic in the garden of Chenonceau, with a castle visit. In Normandy, a visit to a local market is followed by a cooking class. Also included are a private tour of the D-Day Landing beaches, helicopter flight over Normandy, and a crossing to Mt. St. Michel, plus an exclusive lunch in an 18th century manor in Honfleur.
Photo caption: Marseille, France.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
