Travel Indochina identifies growth trends across Asia

Sri Lanka, Bhutan, India and Japan all tracking strongly

Demonstrating sustained interest well beyond its traditional destinations of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, Asia travel specialist Travel Indochina has recorded strong growth in sales to Sri Lanka, Bhutan, India and Japan.

Specifically, escorted Small Group Journey sales to Sri Lanka are up 21% year on year, and Bhutan has increased 11%. Sri Lanka FIT sales are also up; coupled with a very strong July-August for India FIT, these figures indicate strong ongoing interest to the subcontinent as a whole.

Japan has seen a particular resurgence of interest and strong consumer confidence in the destination. Supported by consistent growth over the past three years, Small Group Journey sales to Japan have been exceptional, with 318% year on year growth. The destination is now Travel Indochina’s second highest SGJ market.

Japan FIT sales also continue to rise, with monthly results having increased 200%, and special interest groups are also tracking well.

Travel Indochina’s Cherry Blossom and Festival Small Group Journeys through March and April 2015 have sold out, and recently added double departures ex-Kyoto have already reached more than 50% capacity in five weeks on the market.

The success of the Japan Small Group Journeys are being attributed to several key points:

Ø There have been some noteworthy price reductions on all SGJ departures in Japan in 2015. With all departures guaranteed, plus a Western Tour Leader at seven clients plus a price reduction year on year, it has never been better value to travel to Japan on a Small Group Journey

Ø Double departures ex Kyoto in the key travel months of March, April and October through till April 2016, to make it easier than ever to secure a place on the popular Cherry blossom and festival departures.

Ø The 15 day Secrets of Japan journey includes several wonderful Special Stay, Unique and Local Insider Experiences such as discoveries of samurai quarters in Kanazawa, a visit to a traditional 800 year old house in Shirakawago, a paper making class, a visit to the Toyota Factory in Nagoya and an unforgettable journey along the old postal routes of the Kiso Valley.

Ø Insider Experience – Special Stay: Festivals in Japan are rich and vibrant occasions. Girls put on their best ‘yukata’ (a light kimono) and often the men wear traditional dress as well. The streets are lined with food and drink stands selling grilled meat on sticks, ‘yakisoba’ fried noodles and all manner of food delights. And of course, the Japanese love a drink at these occasions so beer and sake are never in short supply. We will continue to include three incredible festival departures during the year, plus two departures ex-Kyoto.

Ø Insider Experience – Taste: Our Maiko dinner and performance has become Travel Indochina’s signature inclusion in Japan. Usually reserved for those with a personal introduction, this is a rare opportunity to meet these famed apprentice geishas and enjoy a traditional Japanese meal. Clients now spend two hours with the Maiko (instead of 45 minutes previously). A special highlight for all travellers.

Travel Indochina’s 10 day Highlights of Japan journey is quickly becoming a favourite among travellers. This trip combines the best of modern, ancient and reinvented Japan with ample free time so clients can explore their own interests.

For more information and bookings, Travel Indochina’s Asia experts can be contacted on 1300 365 355 or www.travelindochina.com.au.

For more information and bookings, Travel Indochina’s Asia experts can be contacted on 1300 365 355 or www.travelindochina.com.au.

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