Recent reports from Fiji’s Ministry of Health have flagged suspected cases of alcohol contamination involving several Australian tourists. While investigations are ongoing, these incidents serve as a reminder for travellers to exercise caution when consuming alcohol abroad. For travel agents, these events highlight the vital role of providing clients with accurate, timely information and practical advice to ensure their safety.
Authorities in Fiji are currently investigating incidents where four Australian tourists were rushed to hospital after suspected alcohol poisoning while staying at the Warwick Hotel, the Fiji Times reported. Although specific details are still emerging, Fiji’s tourism operators and government agencies are prioritising visitor safety and confidence.
The incident echoes earlier tragedies in Laos, where two Australians were among the victims of methanol poisoning linked to unregulated alcohol served in tourist areas. According to ABC News, six tourists, including two Australians, died after consuming methanol-laced drinks.
For travel agents, the priority is helping clients navigate these concerns with clear, practical advice that reassures without causing undue alarm.
Supporting clients amid uncertainty
Reports about alcohol safety are bound to raise questions from travellers. As a trusted advisor, you can play a key role in addressing their concerns and ensuring they’re prepared to stay safe abroad.
The first step is staying informed.
“In my opinion, the best thing agents can do for their clients is get correct and accurate information from reliable sources like Tourism Fiji,” Personal Travel Manager and Fiji specialist Belinda Hackett told Karryon.
“The media can be quite overwhelming and not always accurate.
“By ensuring our sources are reliable, we can assist our clients to the best of our ability. We can only assist when we have accurate information.”
So, keep an eye on updates from reliable sources, such as government advisories like Smartraveller. Having accurate, current information allows you to answer client questions with confidence and authority.
When speaking to clients, clarity is crucial. Reassure them by focusing on practical, actionable advice, such as sticking to reputable resorts or bars while also staying informed about specific incidents, even at otherwise trusted venues.
These conversations don’t have to feel heavy; instead, frame them as helpful tips for a worry-free holiday.
Practical guidance for clients
Travellers are often unaware of the potential risks associated with alcohol abroad. Here are some tailored suggestions to share:
- Stick to well-known brands and familiar venues.
- Avoid accepting free-poured drinks at unfamiliar places.
- Learn the warning signs of methanol poisoning, such as dizziness, nausea, and blurred vision, and seek medical attention immediately if they occur.
- Always travel with comprehensive insurance to cover emergencies, including medical treatment for poisoning.
Reassuring clients without overloading them
The goal isn’t to dampen the excitement of your clients’ trips — just the opposite. Keep the tone light but informative. Let them know that, like anywhere, with a little vigilance, they can fully enjoy their holiday.
Highlighting proactive steps being taken by local authorities can also provide reassurance. For example, in Fiji, investigations are ongoing, and safety measures are likely to be strengthened. Frame this as evidence of Fiji’s commitment to ensuring a safe environment for visitors.
You can incorporate safety updates into pre-departure checklists to ensure clients are well-prepared. Include alcohol safety tips in travel guides or newsletters to provide practical advice in an accessible format. Additionally, if you’re not already, share simple and reliable resources, such as the Smartraveller website, to empower clients with trusted information. Smartraveller’s Guide to Staying Safe Overseas is particularly useful.
While concerns about alcohol safety may add an extra layer of complexity, it’s important to remind your clients that these incidents are rare.
By focusing on clear communication and practical advice, you can help clients enjoy their holidays with peace of mind.
