Understand the traveller
In this age of hyper-personalization, travel advisors must take time to understand their customer – the traveller for whom they are artfully crafting an itinerary. What is their purpose? Are they thrill-seekers or do they prefer a laidback holiday? Sunita Amarnani, Executive VP, vexplore, takes a deep dive into the minds of the evolving holidaymaker.
Planning a trip is unique with each client, and the key to it lies in understanding the traveller. It's not just about choosing destinations and booking flights, it's about getting to know their preferences, interests, and aspirations.
Firstly, it's crucial to understand the purpose of their journey. Are they celebrating a milestone, seeking an adrenaline rush, or perhaps yearning for a serene escape? Knowing the why helps me sculpt the perfect experience. A honeymooner's trip would differ significantly from that of a solo backpacker or a family with young children.
And so, I start by asking questions, not just about the places they want to visit but about who they are. Are they thrill-seekers or laid-back explorers? Do they want cultural experiences or are they more into nature and wildlife? By understanding their personality, I can tailor the journey to match their expectations.
The more pieces I know - their likes, dislikes, travel history, and even the little quirks that make them who they are, the clearer the picture becomes. A personalised itinerary isn't just a list of destinations, it's something that unfolds according to the client's story.
Delving into their travel history also provides valuable insights. Have they explored ancient ruins, or is this their first foray into international travel? Understanding their past adventures helps me build an itinerary that complements and enhances their travel story.
Think, think, think!
Let's say they love history. I wouldn't just recommend any old historical site, I would dig deeper to find the hidden gems, the lesserknown tales that would resonate with them the most. Or if they are foodies, it's not just about booking a table at a popular restaurant - it's about introducing them to local flavours.
In travel, personalization is the way to create unforgettable experiences. It's not about one-size-fitsall packages, it's about creating a journey that aligns seamlessly with the traveller's dreams. This level of understanding doesn't just happen, it requires conversations, listening intently, and sometimes even reading between the lines.
Technology plays a significant role in modern travel planning. Analysing data and trends helps me stay ahead of the curve, but it's the human touch that makes the real difference. As the travel industry evolves, the demand for personalized itineraries is on the rise. Travellers don't just want to see the world, they want to connect with it in a way that is uniquely their own. And that is where the magic happens. By understanding the client on a deeper level, I can pre-empt their needs, exceed their expectations, and turn a trip into a transformative experience. So, I’m here to craft not just vacations, but memories that linger and a personalised journey that resonates with the soul.
Analysing data and trends helps me stay ahead of the curve, but it's the human touch that makes the real difference
(Views expressed are the author's own. The publication may or may not subscribe to them.)