10 travel agents recently discovered the magic of Malta on a fam trip hosted by Travelsphere and Just You.
The five-day itinerary was designed for agents who have never sold escorted touring but are keen to develop their knowledge.
The 10 agents who attended were:
* Jayne Hampton – Travel by Inspire
* Lucy Turnbull – Dawson and Sanderson
* Emily Jane Sporton – New Era Travel
* Lily Tasker – Lincs Co-Op
* Angela Baker – Premier Travel
* Dean Slade – Book the World
* Dawn Bellis – Hays Travel
* Elaine Lemon – Goodyear Travel
* Carolyn Ellis – Designer Travel
* Kate Henry – Mirador Escapes
Kate Henry said: “We visited a number of fascinating places and were given so much information by guides who are passionate about the area and what they do; it really brings the experience to life. There’s also the security and convenience of having everything organised, with a holiday director on hand to help. I’m definitely going to recommend escorted touring to my customers.”
Jayne Hampton said: “It was a wonderful five days and the trip has given me invaluable insight into how escorted touring works. I’m taking all of my knowledge back home to share with my clients and I now feel confident in offering touring as an option.”
During the trip, agents visited Malta’s ancient capital of Mdina, know as the ‘Silent City’ due to its population of only 250. Famous sites in the walled city include St. Paul’s Cathedral and its catacombs, the Old City Fortress, and Palazzo Falson museum.
Agents also explored Malta’s current capital, Valletta, which is known for its scenic waterfront with a lively strip featuring bars and restaurants, and the Barrakkah Gardens adorned with sculptures, greenery and a fountain centerpiece.
Gozo was another stop, which is worth a day trip due to its Citadel in Victoria; the Ggantija Temples; Ramla Bay; and Dwejra Bay, popular for its interesting rock formations, plus diving and snorkelling.
Also on the itinerary was the famed Blue Grotto, a 60-metre long sea cave where the water glows bright blue, and which can be explored by boat.
The group took part in various activities, such as olive oil tasting and sampling traditional Maltese cuisine, gaining an insight into how tours are structured and the key selling points.
Rachel Mould, Head of trade sales UK at Travelsphere and Just You, said: “We know that first-hand experience is vital for the trade and therefore our Malta fam trip was the perfect introduction for those who are new to selling escorted touring.
“From expert-led excursions to the convenience of a well-planned itinerary, the trip brought the overall concept to life, providing an understanding into the finer details of escorted touring and giving them the confidence to start their selling journey.”
