Insider Journeys has decided to scrap its Small Group Journeys (SGJ) and FIT product in Thailand, saying that the destination has become too “mainstream” for its expertise.
The Southeast Asian country will no longer be available through Insider Journeys as of 1 January 2018, however, the tour operator will run any Thailand bookings currently held and deposited for travel post-2017.
In the new year, Thailand will be distributed through Helloworld’s wholesale businesses, Qantas Holidays and Viva Holiday.
Explaining the decision, Insider Journeys’ Managing Director, Tony Mayell, said that while Thailand is “strong performing”, it is also quite “mainstream”.
He continued, saying the move would allow Insider Journeys to focus on off-the-beaten destinations that “lend themselves to Small Group Journeys and tailor made FIT packages that we do better than anyone else”.
“We are well advanced in the restructure and strategic review of the Insider Journeys business, our focus is now on reclaiming the mantle of the specialist in the destinations where we operate.”
Tony Mayell, Insider Journeys Managing Director
Among these specialist destinations is China, which Insider Journeys recently confirmed it would re-enter after a short break.
“We are very positive about China and for that matter other destinations particularly Japan, India and Sri Lanka. Indochina is always strong and we would love to see more interest in Laos,” he said.
Insider Journeys’ new brochures and offerings are expected to be released in the coming months.
READ: Here’s how you can create the perfect Thailand itinerary
READ: The road to Insider Journeys, how the company has changed in 12 months
