Virgin Vacations reports it is looking to strengthen bonds with the travel agent community, according to President Nigel Osborne. “We recognize that travel agents are responsible for selling 90 percent of traditional vacation packages, and we want to forge a productive partnership to benefit all parties.”
According to industry veteran Osborne, Virgin Vacations has revamped its product portfolio and offers agents a wide breadth of product to sell to a variety of clients. “Our expanded products include a wide choice of worldwide escorted tours, independent vacations and river cruises. We also have special departures available," Osborne said.
New this year are small group tours, journeys where guests can become immersed in the local culture. Limited in size, the tours visit destinations such as Myanmar, Peru and Turkey. There is also a new Cuba Face-to-Face program. Virgin Vacations has also expanded its group department to handle increased demand. All Custom groups are quoted net Virgin prices, affording travel agents an opportunity to add their own mark-ups, the company says.
Other ways agents can earn commissions are on escorted tours, where they earn 10 percent on the land portion; and on Independent vacations, where land is commissionable at 5 percent. For agents selling Virgin Vacations products, Osborne points out the company’s value pricing, prime hotel locations, and personal service.
“Our commitment as a leading brand is to help agents expand their business with marketing, and to offer clients exciting, experiential trips,” says Osborne.
Visit www.virgin-vacations.com