Hawaii introduces online training for European trade
A new online training programme for agents and operators has been developed by Hawaii Tourism Europe.
The modular course offers frontline staff the chance to become Hawaii Specialists. It will be the core training tool for all travel agents and tour operator reservation staff in the UK, Ireland and Scandinavia.
The programme takes the form of 11 modules, which include one on each of the four main island areas, O’ahu, Big Island, Kaua’i and Maui, incorporating the smaller islands of Moloka’i and Lana’i.
The remaining sections focus on niche markets such as golf and romance, as well as providing practical advice for travellers, from getting around to where to stay.
Trade sponsors, including Starwood Hotels, Hilton Hotels and United Airlines, have also been brought on board and the top 10 best scoring agents will have the chance to win a place on a fam trip to Hawaii.
Those who successfully complete the programme will be entered into a draw to win one of 10 DVDs of Disney’s Lilo and Stitch, set on of Kaua’i, or one of 25 Go Hawaii Cards, which provide free entry to over 20 of Oahu’s top attractions and tours plus up to 25% savings on shopping, dining and shows.
Hawaii Tourism Europe sales and marketing account director Mirjam Peternek said: “While the diversity of the Islands of Aloha is one of our most appealing selling points, we appreciate that this also creates the responsibility of ensuring our agents are provided with the best training to sell the different islands, their contrasting landscapes and the enormous range of activities available.
“Having taken on board the increasing popularity of home-working over the last few years, coupled with the rise in specialisation and call centre outsourcing, HTE took the decision to invest in an online training medium as it was felt this would be the most effective means of reaching the maximum numbers of agents across the country.”
Report by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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