Virgin expands Worldwide programme
Virgin Holidays aims to double carryings through its Worldwide programme in 2006.
The operator claims to have launched its most extensive brochure for next year on the back of a 40% rise in bookings.
The programme covers more than 30 countries, 224 hotels and 108 multi-centres, tours, safaris and fly-drives.
More than 50 hotels have been added as well as five new destinations and resorts, 12 new excursions, free domestic flights, early booking offers and a selection of discounts.
A spokesman said: “Next year, the operator is expecting passenger numbers to double for the worldwide programme and its latest brochure reflects this.”
Cairo, Luxor, Sharm El Sheikh and two 7-night Nile Cruises have been added to the programme together with Mumbai following the launch of a new route by Virgin Atlantic. Prices start at £529 for five nights in Egypt.
Tibet, Hoi An in Vietnam and the smaller island of La Digue in the Seychelles are also introduced.
The operator said sales to South Africa saw the largest growth last year with a rise of nearly 50% in bookings, while the Middle and Far East also saw an increase of more than 30% with Dubai topping the table.
Product manager James Gamble said: “Our worldwide programme has grown enormously in the last year and I’m sure this would have been more if it wasn’t for the devastating affects of tsunami.
“Not only has this brochure had a complete new make over, but we have also put a great deal of emphasis into new destinations, hotels and excursions. The launch of Virgin Atlantic’s new services to Mumbai this year, and Dubai next summer, have allowed us to expand in these areas even further, giving our customers even more choice and flexibility”.
Report by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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