Bunnik Tours recently marked its return to trade famils, hosting 10 Helloworld agents for a six-day trip to Sri Lanka. This was the company’s first famil since the pandemic, offering agents an opportunity to experience elements of Bunnik’s Sri Lankan Discovery and Sri Lanka In-Style tours.
Led by National Sales Manager Zoe Francis, the famil aimed to showcase how Bunnik’s small group tours provide access to authentic cultural experiences and destinations beyond the typical tourist itinerary.
“This famil was an incredible opportunity for Helloworld agents to experience Bunnik’s immersive approach to travel across both our classic and deluxe tour styles and reinforced the importance of nurturing these connections in person,” Francis said.
Immersive travel experiences
The itinerary was designed to give agents a comprehensive look at what travellers can expect on Bunnik’s Sri Lanka tours. Highlights included an elephant safari at Minneriya National Park and a visit to the iconic Lion Rock of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its archaeological significance and panoramic views.
A visit to a local village offered a closer look at Sri Lankan culinary traditions, with agents participating in a cooking demonstration before sharing a meal with a local family. According to Bunnik, these experiences exemplify its commitment to connecting travellers with the culture and people of their destinations.
“By immersing in local communities and participating in culturally rich experiences, the agents could appreciate how our small group tours offer special experiences that go beyond the traditional tourist trail,” Francis said.
In addition to cultural and natural highlights, the famil included a stay at the five-star Water Garden Sigiriya, located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. The property, a feature of the Sri Lanka In-Style tour, offered agents a chance to experience the luxury aspect of Bunnik’s deluxe touring options.
Sustainable and responsible travel
A visit to a local school was a significant part of the famil, where the group donated essential supplies to students. The activity aligns with Bunnik’s focus on socially responsible travel and its efforts to support the communities featured in its tours.
“This was an opportunity for us to demonstrate our commitment to meaningful and sustainable travel experiences,” Francis said.
Trade partner engagement
The trip concluded with a visit to Bunnik Tours’ Sri Lanka office, where agents received training on the benefits of small group travel and the company’s worldwide destinations. The training aimed to equip agents with the knowledge to better communicate Bunnik’s unique offerings to their clients.
Reflecting on the famil, Francis emphasised the value of in-person engagement with trade partners, saying that, “it was fantastic to be back on the ground, exploring all that Sri Lanka has to offer alongside our valued travel partners”.
Strengthening relationships
For the participating Helloworld agents, the famil provided firsthand experience of Bunnik’s touring philosophy and reinforced the importance of authentic, culturally immersive travel.
The trip not only highlighted the key features of Bunnik’s tours but also served as a reminder of the role trade partnerships play in the travel industry’s recovery.
In related news, Bunnik Tours is set to celebrate its 30th anniversary in March 2025, marking three decades of providing small group tours to over 70 countries. To commemorate this milestone, the company has released its 2025 travel brochure, featuring a range of tours with guaranteed departures. Notable offerings include the 28-day Spain, Portugal & Morocco tour, the 22-day Jewels of Dalmatia itinerary, and the 24-day Italian Discovery journey.
Bunnik Tours supports the travel trade by offering fully commissionable tours and providing access to a team of Travel Specialists to assist agents. The company has implemented measures to streamline the booking process, designed to help travel advisors effectively serve their clients. Additional details about Bunnik Tours’ offerings and brochures are available on their agent portal.
