Wendy Wu Tours has launched a new “Travel with Confidence” initiative – claiming to offer “the most thorough and comprehensive travel safety programme” for those going long-haul from the UK.
Developed in consultation with the UNWTO, WTTC and local governments across Asia and South America, the operator said its new safety protocols “cover every element of the holiday experience” from accommodation and dining to transport and sightseeing.
Since introducing the initiative, Wendy Wu has reported “exceptional demand” for long-haul travel over the next two years and as a result has expanded its 2021/2022 programme.
The new offerings include 150 holidays across Japan, south-east Asia, India, China and dedicated programmes to Central Asia and the Middle East, South America and Antarctica, as well as a new Cruise & Beach programme in Vietnam.
Wendy Wu has also reported an increase in demand for solo travel of more than 68%.
To help further boost sales, the operator is giving customers the chance to “fly their partner for free” to Asia and South America throughout 2021 and 2022, saving up to £800 per couple – or if travelling solo – is giving a 50% saving on airfare.
Wendy Wu’s global sales director John Warr said a recent survey of customers cited safety as their “number one travel concern”.
“The desire for travel is strong, in fact Japan, Vietnam and Central Asia, came out as the top must-see destinations for 2021 and beyond, however the safety element is a priority,” said Warr.
“We took all of these concerns onboard and, over the past six months, have been in consultation with our team, guides, ground handlers as well as local overseas governments, and have developed a pioneering and fully comprehensive set of Covid-19 health and safety guidelines, in line with UNWTO, WTTC and WHO regulations, which are by far the most comprehensive in the industry.
“We know how difficult this time has been for everyone and its impact on travel plans which is why we’ve taken the unprecedented decision to go all out and give our customers a range of unique offers, quite frankly the best in the industry, across all 2021 and 2022 holidays.”