In a recent survey, Mahlatini, the luxury African travel specialist, reveals that more than 60 per cent of British travellers are planning to take a long-haul trip in the next 12 months, with remote, safe havens in highest demand from the plains of Africa to the isolated islands of the Indian Ocean, but many remain uncertain – introducing Mahlatini’s new ‘Book with Confidence’ guarantee.
Drawing on this and almost 20 years’ experience in the region, Mahlatini will today launch their comprehensive Travel with Confidence guarantee that comprises support for every stage of the adventure, including refundable deposits, 100 per cent financial protection and provisions for emergency medical care.
Mahlatini administered their survey into consumer travel behaviour post-pandemic to their network of frequent travellers this May 2020 and received submissions from more than 680 participants aged from 18 to 70+ years. Their findings support the speculation that UK travellers will continue to treasure their travel experiences, with only 16 per cent expecting to spend less on international holidays in future, though only 15 per cent are ready to book now.
Remote, isolated destinations are in the greatest demand, with Indian Ocean islands and safari holidays taking the top spots. Almost 45 per cent of respondents state they will actively avoid congested tourist hot spots and more than 30 per cent cite they will invest in fewer, higher quality trips of a longer duration, particularly nature and wildlife escapes (20 per cent). The demand for solo travel has diminished to less than seven per cent as the nation chooses to reconnect with their families after extended periods of separation due to lockdown restrictions.
Assurances around safety and financial protection are the main considerations for those planning their next trip, with travellers seeking the security of flexible deposits, cancellation terms and hygiene commitments as a priority over value for money.
“We know personally how much the coronavirus pandemic has affected people’s attitudes towards travel across the globe”, says Chris Goldring, Director of Mahlatini. “We also know how transformational these journeys can be, both for our clients and the people they meet. We want to continue to deliver exceptional experiences to our clients and their families and hope our new Travel with Confidence policy will offer the comfort and reassurance they need to get their plans in motion.”
Mahlatini’s new Travel with Confidence policy applies to new bookings made while FCO travel bans relating to Covid-19 remain and includes:
- Flexible booking terms, including free cancellation or postponement up to two months before departure and a fully refundable deposit
- 100 per cent financial protection through the Travel Trust
- Tried and trusted travel experts and partners – Mahlatini demonstrate personal experience of every stage of the journey
- Additional stringent safety and hygiene standards in line with the World Health Organisation recommendations that comprise hand and respiratory hygiene, social distancing and safe food practices
- Provisions for emergency medical care at properties
