According to tourism authorities from Australia and New Zealand, one of the largest visitor segments is the self drive market. But, according to Bruce Hodge, President of Goway Travel, most agents are missing out on this lucrative opportunity. “Regretfully”, he says “most agents just sell an airfare and the clients make their own self-drive arrangements”.
“There are several ways agents can tap this market” claims Hodge. “They can sell a car rental, a car and hotel pass combination, a motor home or a pre-arranged itinerary incorporating a car rental with pre-booked accommodations”.
Goway offers competitive car and motor home rentals in both Australia and New Zealand. As well, the Downunder specialist wholesaler offers over 30 different self drive itineraries which they pre-book accommodations in conjunction with their own Sydney office. If your clients still prefer to be more independent, Goway recommends agents use the itineraries as a great guide to what can be done. Whatever they book, Goway’s Sydney office is a 1-800 number away for any assistance if required.
The Pacific Coast Explorer, travelling between Sydney and Cairns for 16 days, is Goway’s most popular self drive itinerary. The price for Economy accommodation is $3,699 and $4,081 First Class. Price includes return airfare, pre-booked accommodations, transfers and other transport mentioned in the itinerary, a Hertz group C car with unlimited mileage and mandatory insurance plus Goway’s unique co-pilot kit which consists of maps, directions and discount offers.
For New Zealand, Goway offers 10 pre-planned itineraries. At this moment, their best selling self drive ideas for New Zealand are two special packages that include airfare from the West Coast, a motor home or car and hotel pass, plus the option to fly free to Australia.