Tag: Thomas Cook (India) Ltd.

News

Thomas Cook India & SOTC Travel observe growing demand for exclusive and immersive travel experiences

Jan 13, 2021 by Rekha Nair 0 Comments #Leisure, #MICE, #Mr. Daniel D’souza, #Mr. Rajeev Kale, #President & Country Head, #President & Country Head – Holidays, #SOTC Travel, #Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., #Visa

Mumbai: Thomas Cook India, India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group company, SOTC Travel, have introduced exclusive luxury cruise holidays to the polar extremes of the Arctic and Antarctic. Targeted at India’s discerning travellers, the cruises have been designed to offer spectacular landscapes and unparalleled experiences to ensure a journey of a life time.

Travelling away from crowds – to destinations renowned for natural beauty while indulging in immersive experiences – has emerged as a key trend during the COVID-19 era. To tap into this growing demand, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel have introduced cruise holidays to Arctic and Antarctica offering breath-taking natural vistas, majestic wildlife, awe-inspiring and relatively untouched terrain with a glimpse into the lives of local cultures living in extreme environments.

Each sailing offers a bucket list of un-matched experiences such as: crossing the Drake Passage and the Antarctic Convergence, a glimpse of the bustling penguin colonies in South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, a visit to the home of the majestic Polar Bear in Watkins Fjord, etc. On board the Thomas Cook India and SOTC Arctic and Antarctic cruise holidays, customers are offered a luxurious experience on the Ponant Cruise or the MV Sea Spirit: a range of delectable international cuisines, entertainment and live shows, sports and leisure activities, spas, scenic views from the comfort of their own private balcony, among others. In addition, customers can opt for exciting activities from kayaking, camping, hiking or polar region photography.

Antarctic Peninsula (14 Days)

  • 2 Nights stay at the Buenos Aires Marriott or similar
  • 1 Night at the Arakur Hotel in Ushuaia – the stunning gateway to the 7th Continent
  • 10 Nights on board the Luxury Expedition Ship: Sea Spirit
  • Stay in Deluxe Suites with Balcony. Exciting encounters with whales, penguins and other marine      wildlife using a fleet of Zodiac crafts
  • Free upgrade to Premium Suite on booking before January 31, 2021*

Arctic Cruise (17 Days)

  • 2 Nights stay at the Novotel Tour Eiffel, Paris or similar
  • 14 Nights on board the Ultra Luxury Ponant Cruise
  • Stay in Prestige Staterooms with Balcony
  • Experience the magnificent landscape of Greenland
  • Unlimited Alcoholic & Non Alcoholic Beverages on board the cruise
  • Visiting traditional villages and meeting the Inuit people, indulge in activities such as hiking, visit to the lava caves in Jan Mayen, etc.
  • Sail along the Prins Christian Sund, a narrow, 100-km long passage that winds its way through cliffs and glaciers
  • Flight from Paris – Longyearbeyn (Svalbard)
  • Flight from Kanergerlussuaq (Greenland) to Paris

Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, “The COVID lockdown period has resulted in an unprecedented surge in demand for bucket list destinations – away from crowds and combined with immersive experiences. Keeping this in mind, we are delighted to introduce luxury cruises to Arctic and Antarctica, targeted at India’s discerning HNI-UHNI segment. Given that sailing the majestic seas of the Arctic and Antarctic regions are available only for a few months each year, this exclusive product has been launched well in advance – to enable our customers avail of special early bird discounts to avail of a once in a lifetime holiday experience.”

Mr. Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “Luxury travel market offers a significant growth potential with Indian travellers increasingly looking for exclusive and indulgent experiences. To cater to this set of expectations and preferences from the rising wave of luxury consumers, SOTC has introduced unique cruise voyages across Antarctica, Arctic & Greenland curated for those who seek the thrill of unchartered landscapes and unexplored destinations. At an attractive pricing, our Arctic & Antarctica cruises offer exceptional experiences to delight India’s discerning luxury travellers.”

Assured Insured Secured

To ensure health and safety of customers, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have put together a holistic three pronged customer confidence-building program in the form of the Assured-Insured-Secured Program that covers every aspect of physical safety as well as mental and financial security to give the customer complete peace of mind. The companies have launched several meaningful initiatives: a Doctor on Call 24×7 service in partnership with Apollo Clinics; India’s first Safe Holiday Helpline, a free service offering expert guidance & assistance for safe holiday planning, visa assistance, country specific updates, on-ground health and safety measures, health certification, etc. and seamless COVID-negative certification services via our tie up with ICMR accredited labs.

News

Thomas Cook India & SOTC to capitalise on the long/extended weekend opportunity

Jan 9, 2021 by Rekha Nair 0 Comments #Leisure, #MICE, #Mr. Daniel D’souza, #Mr. Rajeev Kale, #President & Country Head, #President & Country Head – Holidays, #SOTC Travel, #Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., #Visa

Mumbai: Lockdown fatigue having created significant pent-up travel demand, with positive news on COVID vaccines, Indian consumers are looking to avail of 2021’s long weekends for short breaks/mini vacations. Further, given price surges and availability challenges of the Christmas-New Year high season, the weekends starting January 14-17 and January 23-26, 2021 offer attractive options that are easy on the wallet. To make the most of the long weekends in 2021, Thomas Cook India, India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group company, SOTC Travel, have handpicked the best deals for long weekend getaways starting at Rs. 3 450.00*, across India, Dubai and Maldives.

According to the recent Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel – Second Holiday Readiness Report (December 2020), Indians are displaying a strong appetite for holidays – with 89% respondents indicating keen interest to resume travel. With approximately 15 long weekends this year, each weekend presents an opportunity for a well-deserved break with family and friends and to tick off destinations from their bucket lists.
From driving down to the nearest hill station or beach, or taking a flight to explore India’s unique history-culture, outdoors and adventure, a cruise or safari; eclectic accommodation such as a colonial bungalow, plantation villa (coffee/ tea estates), heritage palaces/havelis, long weekends offer travellers a welcome break from the mundane routine/ work life stress while delving into delightful new experiences.

On offer are trending destinations like Goa, Kashmir, Rajasthan, Himachal, Uttarakhand, Kerala, Udaipur, Dubai and Maldives. Special offers during the stay include VIP darshan of Shrinath Ji in Udaipur (Nathdwara), upto Rs. 10 000.00 hotel credit across select properties, all meals with evening cocktail, snacks and daily sightseeing with on-board guide on Antara Cruise etc.

Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, “We understand that customers were unable to take a holiday during December due to challenges of availability and high pricing. And so we want the New Year celebrations to continue with our extended weekend holidays in 2021. We have launched very attractive getaways to benefit Indians with special discounts and value adds across India, Dubai and Maldives. And all of this comes with our commitment to Health & Safety with our Assured Safe Travel Program to ensure complete peace of mind and a relaxing mini-vacation!”

Mr. Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “Based on customer demand and the strong success of our last holiday sale, to enable customers who missed out on the year end break, we have created special deals to make best use of the long weekends in January. With air inclusive packages and destination stays, we’ve packed in an exciting range of favourite locales – all at great value pricing and amazing offers to ensure long weekend holidays that are easy on the wallet. Our long weekend packages are inbuilt with our Assured-Insured- Secured Program to bring confidence to our customers.”

To ensure health and safety of customers, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have put together a holistic three pronged customer confidence-building program in the form of the Assured-Insured-Secured Program that covers every aspect of physical safety as well as mental and financial security to give the customer complete peace of mind. The companies have launched several meaningful initiatives: a Doctor on Call 24×7 service in partnership with Apollo Clinics; India’s first Safe Holiday Helpline, a free service offering expert guidance & assistance for safe holiday planning, visa assistance, country specific updates, on-ground health and safety measures, health certification, etc. and seamless COVID-negative certification services via our tie up with ICMR accredited labs.

Business World

Thomas Cook India launches India’s first Virtual Holiday Store to serve customers in the new normal – with safe, convenient, personalized holiday planning

Nov 26, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #Mr. Mahesh Iyer, #Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., #Virtual Holiday Store

In an endeavour to empower customers with contactless and convenient holiday planning, coupled with the reassurance of its experts, Thomas Cook India, India’s leading integrated travel services company has introduced India’s first Virtual Holiday Store. The Company’s dedicated team of travel experts will be available over video chat 365 days, from 8 am to 12 pm, to guide customers with all their travel requirements, including domestic & international holidays, value-added services like travel insurance, end-to-end COVID-negative certification services, visa services, documentation and more.

Given the uncertainty in the current environment and constant changes in travel and health protocols/ documentation, India’s travellers are in need of guidance and reassurance when planning their holidays. So as travel restrictions are being eased and growth and economic activity returning steadily – Thomas Cook is now focused on the biggest challenge: to instil confidence and positive sentiment towards leisure & business travel for customers.

To this end, Thomas Cook India drives a holistic three-pronged confidence-building program in the form of the “Assured-Insured-Secured” Program that covers every aspect of physical safety as well as mental and financial security to give the customer complete peace of mind. The newly launched Thomas Cook Virtual Holiday Store intends to support customers with convenient and contactless holiday planning – from the safety and comfort of their homes. With no app downloads or pre-registration required, customers merely need to log onto https://www.thomascook.in/virtual-store, to connect over video chat with Thomas Cook India’s Holiday Experts from anywhere in the country between 8 am and midnight.

Mr. Mahesh Iyer, Executive Director & CEO, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, “The Pandemic era and lockdowns have accelerated the demand for virtual and contactless sales and service. In line with this need and as is expected of a market leader, keeping customer safety as the top priority, we at Thomas Cook have launched our Virtual Holiday Store – an innovative, interactive sales and service platform that combines the power of digital with the much loved Thomas Cook personal – human connect.

Our Virtual Store model aims at supporting our customers with safe/contactless and convenient holiday planning – incorporating much needed personalised, face-to-face connect, so essential when it comes to holiday planning and reassurance in the COVID era.”

Business World

Thomas Cook India and SOTC partner with Accor Launch Holiday Safe

Oct 19, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #Accor, #Mr. Madhavan Menon, #Mr. Puneet Dhawan, #SOTC, #Thomas Cook (India) Ltd.

Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group Company SOTC Travel Ltd., have partnered with Accor, a global leader in augmented hospitality, to launch Holiday Safe. The holiday portfolio aims at reassuring customers with comprehensive health and safety protocols incorporated via Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s Assured Safe Travel Program in partnership with Apollo Clinics, together with Accor’s Cleanliness and Prevention ALLSAFE label, developed with and vetted by Bureau Veritas. The attractively priced holidays, starting at Rs. 5 999.00*, include unique experiences and value additions across a range of domestic and international destinations.

While extended lockdowns and work-from-home stress have resulted in strong pent up travel demand for short drivable distance vacations, Indian consumers have understandably rated health-safety as their priority. The Thomas Cook India & SOTC Holiday Readiness Travel Report reiterates this – with 75% respondents stating health and safety to be their overriding concern and 72% displaying preference for reputed travel brands. Thomas Cook India, SOTC and Accor have hence leveraged their collective expertise in curating the Holiday Safe range that delivers on their comprehensive measures towards hygiene and safety while ensuring customers a memorable holiday experience.

With the easing of travel restrictions and to reignite the love for travel, the Holiday Safe portfolio in addition to health and safety protocols, offers a range of vacation options such as staycations, workations, drivecations, quick breaks to celebrate special occasions and the upcoming festive season.

Accor’s extensive footprint across gateway cities and favourite holiday locales has been leveraged by Thomas Cook and SOTC’s experts to offer customers a wide selection of luxury to economy options at the Fairmont, Sofitel, Pullman, Mövenpick, Grand Mercure, Novotel, Mercure, ibis and ibis Styles. The Holiday Safe portfolio offers customers exclusive pricing starting from Rs. 5 999.00* for a variety of domestic themed holidays: weekend breaks, wellness, romantic breaks, family getaways, magic moments, among others. International holidays start at Rs. 20 720.00* to destinations like Dubai and Maldives.

Mr. Madhavan Menon, Chairman & Managing Director, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, “As Indian travellers look to maximize their experiences while minimizing risk, our focus on customer health and safety remains our top priority. To build consumer confidence in the COVID era, we are delighted to announce our association with the Accor Group, one of the world’s largest and most respected hospitality brands.

Our Holiday Safe collection incorporates the comprehensive measures of the Thomas Cook India & SOTC Assured Safe Travel Program and Accor’s Cleanliness & Prevention ALLSAFE label – with standards developed with and vetted by Bureau Veritas. This collaboration aimed at building a safe travel environment for customers is inbuilt with clean-safe protocols across every step of the customer journey, and also incorporates unparalleled holiday experiences to delight the Indian traveller.”

He added, “Holiday Safe, together with our COVID-19 travel insurance cover, zero cancellation charges, and free rescheduling will ensure that our customers are assured, insured and secured.”

Commenting on the partnership Mr. Puneet Dhawan, Senior VP Operations, Accor India & South Asia, said, “In the current environment, we believe the ultimate determinant of guests returning is health and safety blended with innovative experiences and rewarding benefits. As an industry, this is the time to show solidarity and work together reassuring guests that it is safe to travel. Taking forward our endeavour to instil confidence amongst guest for safe holidays, we are proud to partner with Thomas Cook and SOTC and look forward to providing a holistic experience to our guests.”

Business World

Thomas Cook India augments its presence in Uttar Pradesh

Oct 17, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #Gold Circle Partner franchise outlet, #Mr. Rajeev Kale, #Thomas Cook (India) Ltd.

Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., India’s leading integrated travel services company has strengthened its presence in Uttar Pradesh with the launch of a new Gold Circle Partner franchise outlet in Prayagraj.

This expansion augments Thomas Cook India’s distribution and reach in Uttar Pradesh to 6 consumer access centres: 1 owned branch and 5 Gold Circle Partner (franchise) outlets. The Company’s network in Uttar Pradesh extends to 5 locations including Lucknow, Kanpur, Meerut, Ghaziabad and Prayagraj.

The Thomas Cook India’s Holiday Readiness Travel Report – Future of Travel post-COVID-19 reveals India’s significant pent up demand for travel: A domestic holiday was the first choice of 64% respondents and 36% respondents showed a preference for an international holiday with 41% keen on short-haul destinations.

Notable travel trends witnessed in the Uttar Pradesh market include a preference for spiritual holidays, staycations, workstations, self-drive holidays and also short international getaways to relax and rejuvenate. Destinations that are top of the Uttar Pradesh consumer wish list include Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Kerala, Goa, Himachal Pradesh (domestic); Maldives and Dubai, (international).

The new Gold Circle Partner outlet in Prayagraj offers consumers end-to-end travel solutions with a bouquet of travel and travel-related financial services, including International & Domestic Holidays (Group Tours, Personalised holidays, Cruises, etc.), Value Added Services like Travel Insurance; Visa Services, etc. To build consumer confidence in travel, the outlet will also offer Thomas Cook India’s Assured Program in partnership with Apollo Clinics and end-to-end COVID-negative certification services.

Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, “Uttar Pradesh is a key source market and has been delivering strong growth for our holiday business. Our new Gold Circle Partner franchise outlet located at Prayagraj offers us the significant potential and a viable catchment for a range of consumers: families, business travellers, students, etc.”

He added, “The well-being of our customers is our number one priority and given the current situation, every outlet including our new addition to the Thomas Cook India family, has been fumigated and sanitised professionally as per WHO/ICMR health & safety protocols. Our teams are ready to service customers after undergoing a detailed training programme on health protocols with online health assessments.

In our endeavour to build consumer confidence and offer a safe and stress-free holiday experience, we have designed a 3 pronged strategy to help customers stay assured, insured and secured. Our Assured Program in partnership with Apollo Clinics ensures meticulous health & safety protocols across every touch-point and to further assist our customers, we have tied up with ICMR accredited labs to offer seamless end-to-end COVID-negative certification services with contactless facilitation – across India. Our Safe Holiday Helpline is yet another meaningful consumer initiative – a free service to support customers in safe holiday planning.

In addition, we have recently launched our Holiday with Confidence portfolio in association with Marriott International to build consumer confidence and offer customers a safe and worry-free holiday experience. This partnership brings together the power of our collective brands in delivering comprehensive hygiene and safety protocols with a range of special experiences and attractive rates to ensure a memorable holiday experience.”

Business World

Thomas Cook & SOTC collaborate with Marriott International to launch the ‘Holiday with Confidence’ portfolio

Oct 3, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #Asia Pacific (excluding Greater China), #Marriott International, #Mr. Madhavan Menon, #Mr. Rajeev Menon, #Thomas Cook (India) Ltd.

Reiterating its customer commitment towards building a safe travel environment with the highest standards of hygiene, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., India’s leading integrated travel services
company, along with its Group Company SOTC Travel Ltd., have collaborated with leading hospitality
company, Marriott International, to launch the Holiday with Confidence portfolio – holidays inbuilt with comprehensive protocols that ensure safe travel in the COVID-19 era. The launch is a continuum of a series of meaningful customer-first health & safety initiatives from Thomas Cook & SOTC: The Assured Safe Travel Program in partnership with Apollo Clinics, tie-up with ICMR accredited labs to deliver end-to-end contactless COVID-negative certification services pan India and the Safe Holiday Helpline – a free service to support customers in safe holiday planning

According to the Thomas Cook India & SOTC Holiday Readiness Travel Report, a significant 75%
respondents indicated health & safety as their overriding concern; 72% displayed a preference for reputed travel brands. Therefore, in an endeavour to build consumer confidence and offer them a safe and stress-free holiday experience, the companies have collaborated with Marriott International to launch the Holiday with Confidence portfolio that incorporates the collective expertise of the Thomas Cook & SOTC Assured Safe Travel Program in partnership with Apollo Clinics, and Marriott International’s Commitment to Clean.

Combining Marriott’s extensive footprint across India and its industry standards of hygiene and sanitization protocols, Thomas Cook & SOTC seek to redefine travel with distinctive holiday experiences across its range of staycations, workations, drive cations and quick getaways across 16 participating Marriott International brands, comprising – The Ritz-Carlton, The St. Regis, W Hotels, JW Marriott, Sheraton, Westin, Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Le Meridien, Renaissance, Marriott Executive Apartments, Tribute, Courtyard by Marriott, Fairfield by Marriott, Aloft and Four Points by Sheraton. Special experiences across the Marriott properties include an exclusive 4-course dining experience by a specialty chef, a private session with a golf pro at the historic Poona Club Golf Club, pizza making classes, fun activities at the Kids & Family Club and a romantic movie-under-the-stars, among many others.

The Holiday with Confidence international selection includes- attractive discounts on spa treatments to shark feeding attractions, fun and exciting water sport activities in key resort destinations, and more.

Mr. Madhavan Menon, Chairman and Managing Director, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, “Health &
Safety form a critical element of our customer-first strategy at Thomas Cook India & SOTC and this is
reflected in the series of meaningful initiatives aimed at building customer confidence: our Assured Safe Travel Program in partnership with Apollo Clinics, our COVID-negative certification services and Safe Holiday Helpline. I am hence delighted to announce our association with Marriott International that reiterates our customer promise of health & safety with the launch of our Holiday with Confidence portfolio. This partnership brings together the power of our collective brands in delivering comprehensive hygiene and safety protocols via the Thomas Cook & SOTC Assured Safe Travel Program and Marriott’s Commitment to Clean designed by the Marriott Global Cleanliness Council.”
He added, “As part of our Holiday with Confidence program, our customers also benefit from the
exceptional hospitality of Marriott International, combined with the holiday expertise of Thomas Cook India and SOTC.”

Commenting on the partnership Mr. Rajeev Menon – President – Asia Pacific (excluding Greater China),
Marriott International said, “The travel-related implications (of Covid-19) have been unprecedented and fast-changing. As restrictions and lockdowns are becoming more relaxed, there is a cautious return-to-travel, with consumers putting their faith in brands they trust. In keeping with our endeavour to restore confidence in travel & stays across our hotels, Marriott International is very pleased to partner with Thomas Cook & SOTC in bringing the Holiday with Confidence portfolio of experiences to our guests. With Marriott’s Commitment to Clean initiative and Thomas Cook & SOTC’s dedication to responsible travel, we have developed a harmonized set of health and cleanliness protocols, that will enable guests to re-experience the joy of travel through elevated and unique hotel experiences.”

Business World

Thomas Cook India targets strong growth potential of Punjab

Oct 2, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #Mr. Bijender Gahlyan, #Mr. Rajeev Kale, #Thomas Cook (India) Ltd.

Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., India’s leading integrated travel services company has
strengthened its presence in Punjab with the launch of a new Gold Circle Partner franchise outlet in
Panchkula.

According to Thomas Cook India’s Holiday Readiness Report – Future of Travel post-COVID-19: 64%
respondents were keen on a domestic holiday. Given the lockdown and the pent-up demand for travel,
notable travel trends witnessed in the Punjab market include growing preference for self-drive holidays, workations, staycations and also affordable luxury breaks. The survey also revealed that 36% of respondents showed a preference for an international holiday. Short-haul destinations saw strong interest (41%) and with the reopening of India’s borders, destinations such as Dubai and Maldives have witnessed a growing interest from the Punjab market. In addition, favourites such as Europe (France, Switzerland, the UK, etc.) and the USA are also witnessing a growing number of enquiries.

The new Gold Circle Partner outlet in Panchkula offers consumers end-to-end travel solutions with a bouquet of travel and travel-related financial services, including International & Domestic Holidays (Group Tours, Personalised holidays, Cruises, etc.), Value Added Services like Travel Insurance; Visa Services, etc. To build consumer confidence in travel, the outlet will also offer Thomas Cook India’s Assured Program in partnership with Apollo Clinics and end-to-end COVID-negative certification services.

Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, “The Punjab market has always been a strong growth driver for Thomas Cook India and in order to further leverage this growth potential, we have selected a key catchment of sector 5, Panchkula, Chandigarh for our new Gold Circle Partner franchise outlet. The locality is among the leading business hubs and an upcoming residential locality offering us a diversity of retail consumers- across families, working professionals, Millenials, students, and B-Leisure.”

He added, “The well-being of our customers is our number one priority and given the current situation, every outlet including our new addition to the Thomas Cook India family, has been fumigated and sanitised professionally as per WHO/ICMR health & safety protocols. Our teams are ready to service customers after undergoing a detailed training programme on health protocols with online health assessments.

Our Assured Program in partnership with Apollo Clinics ensures meticulous health & safety protocols across every touch-point and to further assist our customers, we have tied up with ICMR accredited labs to offer seamless end-to-end COVID-negative certification services with contactless facilitation – across India. Our Safe Holiday Helpline is yet another meaningful consumer initiative – a free service to support customers in safe holiday planning.”

Gold Circle Partner Mr. Bijender Gahlyan, is a travel and tourism industry veteran and his expertise in the industry along with his extensive network will assist Thomas Cook India to further strengthen its presence in this growing market.

Business World

Thomas Cook India and SOTC announce the launch of a unique Customer Loyalty Program – Priority

Sep 28, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #Mr. Mahesh Iyer, #Mr. Vishal Suri, #Priority, #Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., #Thomas Cook India and SOTC

Mumbai, September 28, 2020: On the occasion of World Tourism Day, in recognition of the trust displayed by its customers, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group Company, SOTC Travel Ltd., announced the launch of Priority – an exclusive loyalty program. Available as a Platinum and Gold variant, the Priority program entitles its members to significant and exclusive benefits: the services of a dedicated relationship manager, exclusive holiday previews, special priority offers, benefits across alliance partners, birthday specials, invitations to events and a host of attractive deals/promotions across domestic and international holidays and additional travel services.

In this new era of travel, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have ensured unerring customer focus with the
introduction of an innovative portfolio: Domestic Workations, Staycations, Hidden Gems, etc. and an
the international portfolio of Private Journeys, Live It Up and A La Carte holidays – each carefully designed basis customer feedback. Simultaneously, to build customer confidence in travel, the companies’ comprehensive health and safety initiatives such as the Assured Program in partnership with Apollo Clinics, end-to-end COVID-negative certification services and Safe Holiday Helpline, have helped ensure a stress-free holiday experience. In a further initiative to empower customers and thank them for their trust, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have introduced Priority – a unique loyalty club with significant in-built advantages to deepen customer bonds and create holiday memories of a lifetime.

Mr. Mahesh Iyer, Executive Director & CEO, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, “At Thomas Cook India we
are committed to our customer-first strategy and this has been the catalyst to the series of innovative and meaningful initiatives that deliver on our promise of Assured, Insured and Secured. The launch of our Priority program is yet another step in this direction and serves to recognize and reward our loyal customers who are an integral part of the Thomas Cook India family. In addition to a dedicated relationship manager, our Priority program offers significant advantages and we intend to further enhance customer delight via an ongoing series of exclusive and exciting offers.”

Mr. Vishal Suri, Managing Director, SOTC Travel Limited said, “SOTC Travel has been at the forefront of
innovation and customer-centric initiatives in this new era of travel. To ensure customer confidence in travel, we have introduced a range of assured, insured & secured holidays in line with our Safe Travel program. In our commitment towards a customer-first approach and to further connect and strengthen our association with our valued customers, we have introduced our exclusive Priority program that offers customers a more personalized, flexible and truly rewarding experience. The unique offerings and comprehensive benefits such as a personal relationship manager to assist with holiday planning, special priority offers, birthday exclusives, amongst others, strive to enhance the travel experience for our frequent travellers, reassuring them of our excellence across our holiday portfolio.”

Business World

Thomas Cook India & SOTC partner with India’s favourite storyteller Amar Chitra Katha

Sep 19, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #Amar Chitra Katha, #Mr. Anant Pai’s, #Mr. Daniel D’souza, #Mr. Rajeev Kale, #Ms. Preeti Vyas, #SOTC, #Thomas Cook (India) Ltd.

Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group Company, SOTC Travel Ltd., have partnered with India’s favourite storyteller, Amar Chitra Katha, to
take travellers on an enchanting journey through time, re-living India’s vibrant history and culture with the launch of its Great Indian Journeys. Much loved historical characters have been hand-picked to act as a personal guide through each epic journey, including – Birbal (the witty/wise advisor of Mughal emperor, Akbar), Tenali Raman (poet and social thinker of the mighty Vijayanagar empire), Sudama (a childhood friend of Lord Krishna) and Chetak (Rana Pratap’s true warhorse and faithful companion).

The itineraries carefully curated by Thomas Cook India and SOTC’s holiday experts and creatively illustrated via graphic comic strips in the distinctive Amar Chitra Katha style, present India’s young explorers and parents with an engaging format to discover India’s rich heritage and iconic attractions – in a very special route to their roots.

The Great Indian Journeys welcomes travellers on a voyage of discovery via an easy-paced 4-5 day
itinerary through locales steeped in history – Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Udaipur, Mathura, Hampi, Delhi, Agra and more – that chronicle India’s golden ages. Each itinerary incorporates exclusive elements such as personalised storytelling sessions around favourite historical characters, spectacular sound & light shows, local culinary experiences, and more.*

In addition, customer benefits include:

1. Quality accommodation options with daily breakfast
2. Private transfers in AC vehicles
3. Affordable pricing starting at Rs.19 999.00*
4. Flexible cancellation options & a minimal booking deposit
5. Easy payment and EMI options
6. Meticulous health & safety under the Company’s Assured Program in partnership with Apollo Clinics
7. Additionally, COVID-negative certificate facilitation services are also available
8. A 3-month gift subscription to both – the Amar Chitra Katha and the Tinkle Comics Reading Apps worth Rs. 1 150.00

Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said,
“Children have emerged as clear decision-makers when it comes to holidays! So, in a strategic initiative to engage with this powerful segment and bring alive India’s rich heritage, we are delighted to announce our partnership with Amar Chitra Katha to present Great Indian Journeys. Vibrant itineraries have been
designed by our holiday experts to showcase epic journeys with a child-friendly format of Amar Chitra Katha’s graphic comic strips.” He added, “Travel is a great storyteller and our Great Indian Journeys endeavour to bring India’s history to life with much-loved characters as personal guides/narrators. Starting at an attractive price of Rs. 19 999.00*, the selection of enchanting experiences across historical destinations like Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Udaipur, Mathura, etc. offer a delightful combination of fun and learning/discovery, while also ensuring a memorable family holiday.”

He added, “Our Assured Program in partnership with Apollo Clinics ensures meticulous health & safety
protocols across every touch-point and to further assist our customers, we have tied up with ICMR accredited labs to offer seamless end-to-end COVID-negative certification services with contactless facilitation – across India. Our Safe Holiday Helpline is yet another meaningful consumer initiative – a free service to support customers in safe holiday planning.”

Mr. Daniel D’souza, President and Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “At SOTC Travel, we
continue to believe in bringing families closer and creating their best memories with us. India’s favourite
comics- Amar Chitra Katha plays an important role while growing up and has become an integral part in
shaping a million childhoods. The Great Indian Journeys gives our travellers an opportunity, to reconnect and relive their fondest childhood memories with their children and families, by visiting India’s most iconic historical places. These specially designed itineraries, in the form of creative graphic comic strips, bring to life a unique combination of edutainment devoted to Indian culture and history. Through the Great Indian Journeys, we continue to help create delightful holiday experiences for our customers.”

He added, “To ensure health and safety for travellers, we have associated with ICMR accredited labs across India to provide a first of its kind COVID-negative certification services. This, along with our Assured Program in partnership with Apollo Clinics, has been incorporated in every holiday proposition for a hasslefree journey for all our customers. To further assist our customers, we have launched India’s first Safe Holiday Helpline, a free service to the public – offering expert guidance & assistance for safe holiday planning, visa assistance, country-specific updates, on-ground health and safety measures, travel documentation, health certification, etc.”

Ms. Preeti Vyas, CEO and President, Amar Chitra Katha said, “As India’s favourite storytellers, our vision at Amar Chitra Katha has always been to inspire children and families through our vibrant stories about India’s glorious past and culture. The Great Indian Journeys by Thomas Cook India & SOTC, is an exciting collaboration which offers families a unique opportunity to directly experience and engage with India’s heritage through these specially-curated & memorable family holidays. Amar Chitra Katha has been telling stories for over 53 years and has always been a ‘route to your roots’.

She added, “As we firmly establish ourselves in the digital age, we are passionate about taking our founder Mr. Anant Pai’s legacy forward, by reaching out to our audiences via multiple platforms and experiences, including, films, apps, games and videos to tell India’s stories. Our association with SOTC-Thomas Cook is another powerful step in enabling Indian families to experience our stories real-time, not just in 2D or 3D but indeed in 5D, with emotions, feelings and a sense of awe. Through this new property – The Great Indian Journeys, travellers can be assured of the finest travel experience combined with an authentic and vibrant depiction of itineraries through storytelling; which is the hallmark of Amar Chitra Katha.”

Business World

Thomas Cook India & SOTC tap into the demand for offbeat/unique experiences Launch India’s Hidden Gems

Sep 1, 2020 by Gouri Achary 0 Comments #Leisure, #MICE, #Mr. Daniel D’souza, #Mr. Rajeev Kale, #President & Country Head – Holidays, #President and Country Head, #SOTC Travel, #Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., #Visa

Mumbai, September 1, 2020: The pent-up travel demand due to the lockdown has resulted in a new-found interest in Destination India. Consumers are moving away from crowds/traditional tourist spots while seeking to discover India’s untold stories and traveller secrets. And to tap into this demand for non-standard/unique journeys, Thomas Cook India, India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group Company, SOTC Travel, have introduced India’s Hidden Gems. Starting at an attractive price of Rs. 11 500.00*, the holidays include accommodation for 2 nights/3 days at 4-5 star hotels or delightful boutique properties, breakfast and additional dining experience, unique sightseeing, private transport and travel insurance.

Bringing to life nuggets of India’s fascinating history-heritage, spectacular scenic beauty and unparalleled travel experiences, Thomas Cook India and SOTC’s Hidden Gems incorporates a handpicked selection of Exquisite Locales: from Khajuraho, Rishikesh, Udaipur, Munnar, Jawai Sagar, Manali, Coorg, Kollam, Thekkady, Pachmarhi, Kabini, Bandhavgarh, Lalsot and Goa, amongst others.

Exceptional Experiences: An array of exciting traveller secrets have been woven into each journey,
including a jeep safari amidst the lush plantations of Kolukkumalai, Munnar – the highest tea estate in the Western Ghats, a royal 4-course dining experience set against an evening bonfire at the luxurious Amritara Pali Jawai Sagar, picturesque coffee & spice plantation tours in Coorg aboard a specially designed jeep, an exclusive, private, night drive and stargazing experience in a gipsy at Pachmarhi, a unique bush-dining experience in Bandhavgarh, a vintage car drive around Udaipur’s picturesque lake, mangrove walks in the Sundarbans biosphere or the heady adrenalin rush of bungee jumping in Rishikesh, etc.

Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said,
“Together with significant pent up travel demand, the lockdown has seen growing interest from Indians wanting to re-discover their own country, yet seeking non-standard experiences. And so, our teams have
conceptualised Hidden Gems – holidays that offer unparalleled experiences at exquisite locations across
India – at attractive prices starting at just Rs. 11 500.00*. Catering to a range of segments from families,
couples, solo travellers to adventure seekers and wildlife enthusiasts, our Hidden Gems offers a well-deserved break, coupled with exceptional experiences that rejuvenate: be it bush-dining in Bandhavgarh, mangrove walks amidst the stark beauty of the Sundarbans or the thrill of bungee jumping in Rishikesh, etc.”

He added, “Our Assured Program in partnership with Apollo Clinics ensures meticulous health & safety protocols across every touch-point and to further assist our customers, we have tied up with ICMR accredited labs to offer seamless end-to-end COVID-negative certification services with contactless facilitation – across India. Our Safe Holiday Helpline is yet another meaningful consumer initiative – a free service to support customers in safe holiday planning. With our zero cancellation, flexible rescheduling and our guaranteed refund promise, we want to ensure that all our customers travel smooth.”

Mr. Daniel D’souza, President and Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “The choice of destination and the experiences offered inspires travel decisions across all age groups, especially among millennials.
From exploring the local cuisine to finding offbeat experiences at every destination, Indian travellers wish to explore the unknown. Given the current situation and in order to satisfy their desire for immersive experiences, SOTC has designed unique domestic experiences that highlight this trend of experiential travel. These include incorporating workshops, wellness experiences, culturally immersive activities, food and drink experiences, outdoor activities and more.”

He added, “As health and safety is a key concern, all our holidays come with ‘Assured’ – a comprehensive program to safe travel in the COVID-19 era in partnership with Apollo Clinics. To further assist our customers, we have launched India’s first Safe Holiday Helpline, a free service to the public – offering expert guidance & assistance for safe holiday planning, visa assistance, country-specific updates, on-ground health and safety measures, travel documentation, health certification, etc. and have also tied up with ICMR accredited labs to offer seamless end-to-end COVID-negative certification services with contactless facilitation – across India.”