The Rise of ‘Turnkey’ Travel: How Ola is Pioneering a New Era of Group Adventures
The travel industry is witnessing a significant shift towards curated, all-inclusive experiences, particularly within the group travel segment. Ola Mayorista de Turismo is at the forefront of this trend, offering what they term a “llave en mano” – or ‘turnkey’ – approach to group adventures, designed to alleviate stress for both travelers and travel agents. This model, highlighted by Commercial Manager Damián Cosatto, focuses on comprehensive support from initial planning through the entire journey.
Beyond the Itinerary: The ‘Accompanied’ Difference
Ola’s success isn’t simply about offering destinations like Turkey & Dubai, Korea & Japan, or European circuits. It’s about the level of support provided. The company emphasizes a holistic “accompanied” experience, extending far beyond the presence of a tour guide. This includes pre-trip virtual meetings – approximately 45 days before departure – to prepare passengers with details on climate, packing, cultural nuances, and optional excursions. This proactive approach aims to minimize anxieties and empower travelers to fully enjoy their experience.
Destination Deep Dives: From Ancient History to Modern Marvels
Ola’s itineraries are carefully crafted to offer diverse experiences. In Turkey, travelers explore historical sites in Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, and Çanakkale, delving into millennia of history, and culture. The contrast is stark when the journey moves to Dubai, showcasing modern urban development and luxury. Similarly, the Korea & Japan tour blends ancient traditions – including a unique overnight stay in a traditional temple on Mount Koya – with bustling city life in Seoul, Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Busan.
Operational Excellence: Double the Support, Double the Peace of Mind
Ola provides passengers with dual support: a local, Spanish-speaking guide and an Ola representative accompanying the group from Argentina. This ensures seamless communication and personalized assistance throughout the trip. The company similarly prioritizes practical details, such as including travel kits and acknowledging the physical demands of touring – with itineraries often involving 10-15 km of walking per day.
Empowering Travel Agents: Tools for Success
Recognizing the crucial role of travel agents, Ola provides a suite of resources to facilitate sales. These include digital brochures, direct quoting tools, downloadable marketing materials, PDF itineraries, and social media content. Agents are even encouraged to participate in the pre-trip virtual meetings to stay informed and aligned with the travel experience.
Expanding Horizons: A Diverse Portfolio of Group Adventures
Ola’s portfolio extends beyond Turkey & Dubai and Korea & Japan. Popular options include “Encantos de Perú,” “Ola Europea,” and specialized circuits focusing on the UK and Eastern Europe. The company is also venturing into unique experiences like a safari in South Africa, combined with attendance at the Formula 1 race in São Paulo, and a Christmas market tour of Central Europe.
Pro Tip:
Consider the value of pre-trip preparation. Addressing potential concerns and providing detailed information upfront can significantly enhance the traveler experience and reduce stress for both passengers and agents.
The Future of Group Travel: What’s Next?
Ola’s model suggests several key trends shaping the future of group travel. Expect to see increased demand for:
- All-inclusive packages: Travelers are seeking convenience and value, opting for packages that cover all aspects of their trip.
- Experiential travel: Focus on immersive experiences that connect travelers with local culture, history, and nature.
- Specialized tours: Niche tours catering to specific interests, such as culinary adventures, wildlife safaris, or historical explorations.
- Enhanced support: A greater emphasis on personalized assistance and proactive communication throughout the travel journey.
FAQ
- What does “llave en mano” mean? It translates to “turnkey” and refers to Ola’s all-inclusive travel packages, covering flights, accommodation, transfers, and more.
- Are the guides fluent in Spanish? Yes, all local guides are 100% fluent in Spanish.
- How far in advance are pre-trip meetings held? Approximately 45 days before departure.
- Can travel agents join the pre-trip meetings? Yes, agents are encouraged to participate.
Did you know? Ola’s commitment to comprehensive support extends to providing coverage médica (medical coverage) with high coverage amounts for added peace of mind.
Explore Ola’s upcoming group adventures and discover how a ‘turnkey’ travel experience can transform your next journey. Learn more about Ola’s offerings here.
