Elite access unlocks unseen travel deals for locals

Local travellers could be missing out on exceptional deals by booking online, according to Sue Sullivan, owner of Easy Travel and Cruise, who shared insider insights at last week’s Nambour Chamber of Commerce Coffee Catch Up at the Nambour Museum.

Ms Sullivan explained that her agencies, based in Nambour and Gympie, had earned elite status with top cruise and tour companies, giving them access to offers unavailable to the general public.

“We are one of the very few Scenic Luxury Cruise and Tour specialist agencies, which means we’ve been recognised as an elite agency,” she said. “We’re also at a gold level of APT Tours, and that means we actually have access to some deals you will never see in the newspaper or on the internet.”

At present, these include two-for-one European river cruises and discounted Mekong, Australian and Croatian tours, with the only catch being that they are last-minute.

“We can’t name their names publicly,” Ms Sullivan said. “But if you are ever interested, pop in and see what we have.”

Easy Travel and Cruise also has approval to sell TripADeal products, offering even more choice than most agencies.

Beyond booking, the agency runs free information nights, with upcoming events covering European river cruising, Canada and Alaska, and African adventures. The Africa night will also feature a half-hour photography tips session to help travellers capture their experiences.

Ms Sullivan said travel demand was soaring. “If you are thinking of travelling in the next five years, you can’t just wing it anymore,” she warned. “Even within Australia, you need to pre-book. The industry is busier than it’s ever been.”

She also shared a recent example of the value of using a professional agent when world events caused major flight disruptions in the Middle East.

“The airlines didn’t contact the clients — we did,” she said. “Some people who booked online had no idea what was happening. Even if you know exactly what you want to do, it doesn’t cost you any more to use a travel agent, and it gives you protection.”

Easy Travel and Cruise also coordinates a solo travellers group of more than 600 people, helping those who prefer company while exploring the world.

“It’s all about making travel easier, safer, and more rewarding,” Ms Sullivan said.

Ms Sullivan “If you are thinking of travelling in the next five years, you can’t just wing it anymore.”