London-based Travel The Unknown runs worldwide trips to destinations such as Iran, Ethiopia, Bhutan and the Balkans.
Rahul Aggarwal, one of the company’s founders, said: “We have resisted selling through the trade until now because we didn’t want to do it half-heartedly.
“Our trips require a good level of knowledge for any agent to secure a sale; for example, Iran is one of our most popular destinations, but we appreciate that it is unlikely that most people will have an in-depth knowledge of its sites and culture.”
The operator has employed consultancy Robert Dee Associates to grow the trade side of the business and has already started visiting agents to showcase its services and product which, Aggarwal said, had been “very positively received” by travel consultants.
“Most of our trips are themed, for example with a focus on archaeology, festivals, tribal encounters, river cruises, rail journeys, food, wildlife and activity… but we also cater for those who are looking for a touch of luxury,” added Aggarwal.
“We are offering agents a sliding, generous commission, depending on the number of people booked on to a trip – we have a maximum of 12 people on any given departure.
“We also offer end-to-end agent support, and are more than happy to step in to speak to clients on the agent’s behalf if needs be, to help them to secure the sale and the commission.”
Travel the Unknown offers a 14-day Best of Bhutan trip from £3,395pp excluding international flights (£4,295pp with flights) or a 14-day Classical Iran tour from £3,295pp with international flights.
All prices are based on two people sharing and include all ground transportation, accommodation, meals as per itinerary, activities, site entrance fees and a guide.
