Australian travel agent? Ukrainian travel agent? Kazakhstani travel agent? Who has it easiest at the moment?
“Right now mass media is playing against by spreading gossips and scaring tourists away… we must work no matter what: the crisis is simply ‘inside our heads’.”
What do we know about Kazakhstan? Most Australians don’t know a whole lot.
How about the Ukraine? Well it is currently being annexed/taken over/ignored by the rest of the world whilst Putin does as he pleases.
What would it be like to do business there?
Tetyana from roomsXML Ukraine, who works under the brand of Vitiana, shared feedback from some of her agents new to the ‘survival game’ of running a travel agency, especially in regard to exchange rates and stock market activity.
Not a bad perspective to have.
So here are some comments from the average agent from these places.
Kazakhstan
Background: approximately +35 percent in exchange rate since July.
“There’s a constant demand on New Year’s vacations, although tourists aren’t okay with the current prices. Even out loyal clients and those who used to travel at least twice a year are not satisfied and not ready to pay at once. Many travellers prefer to wait.”
“It’s also dangerous to book early as there’s a risk that local tour operators can bankrupt.”
“Until stabilization of exchange clients will certainly cut down expenses (especially on travelling) and try not to spend their cash. Many of our regular customers decided to cancel their winter vacations, because they receive salary in tenge (Kazakhstan currency). For example, mine was cut by 34 percent. “
“Those who travelled will surely go abroad again. They might not be satisfied with prices, but they pay for their passion, for their lifestyle.”
“I assume the drop in sales to new customers is possible. Right now mass media is playing against by spreading gossips and scaring tourists away. They must take our side. Otherwise they will drown us. Mass media should support us, I see this as a solution. We must work no matter what: the crisis is simply “inside our heads”. “
Ukraine
Background: USD exchange rate in February, 2014: 1 to 8 grivnas | August, 2014: 1 to 11 | August-September, 2015: 1 to 22.
“We have thrice less clients than before.”
“Since increase in currency rate we’ve seen a slump in sales comparing to previous years. Every travel agency suffers a loss. We hope for the best and live for the day. It is important now to concentrate on quality, not quantity. Quality is still a major priority for clients, this is why we do our best to deliver a flawless service to EVERY client and fill every need.”
“Currency changes strongly affect clients and their interest in travelling. Of course, it especially concerns tourists that used to book inexpensive tours. Our plan is simple: delver a good service, stay in touch with your clients, always think of a few good ways to remind about yourself. And, naturally, improve your professional skills!”
““Many travel agencies shut down for the past year, there’s surely a good reason for being concerned, but not confused. The motto “stand still and wait” isn’t working. It’s time to find your unique selling point, improve service and be the best among the rest.”