Travel agents’ special places around the world
Exciting Scotland, exotic Thailand, beautiful South Africa. Employees at travel agencies are rarely happy just to head for their summer cottage or sit on the local beach. Amadeus Magazine has spoken to four travel agents in Sweden, Norway and Denmark, to find out how often people in the travel industry travel and where they like to go. We’ve also asked them to reveal their very favourite destinations.
All four of the people we spoke to travel abroad about the same number of times, averaging three to four holidays a year. Time of year and distance travelled varies, determined largely by when they can get time off, just like the rest of us.
Many prefer to stay in Europe in the summer and save their long haul trip for the winter.
“Getting away to the sun in autumn or winter is the perfect way to extend the summer by a few weeks,” explains Marit Grötting at Orkideexpressen.
Travel agents are particularly good at slipping away on a minibreak now and then. On average, they manage a weekend trip in the autumn and one in the spring.
“A weekend break in the autumn is perfect. Heading off Thursday to Sunday gives you an ideal break from work at the darkest and most miserable time of year here in Sweden,” says Anna-Karin Nikonoff at Resia.
What makes a place special?
Some places have a certain something. Without us knowing why, some cities, beaches or beauty spots stick in our mind, drawing us back again and again. Amadeus Magazine has tried to put its finger on just what makes some places special favourites. One common factor is that there should be few tourists. Beyond that, people’s requirements vary. Some place emphasis on good food and drink and quality accommodation, while others see the opportunities for activities and sports as the most important factor.
“The purpose of the trip often has something to do with making a place a firm favourite. For example, if you’re travelling with your girlfriends or sister, the shopping might be a key factor. However, if you’re away with your partner, the deserted sandy beach and the wonderful hotel may be the determining factor,” comments Marie Söderlund at Ticket.
Scotland, Thailand and South Africa
One gem for many is Scotland. Bente Knudsen at Holstebro Rejsecenter in Denmark is mad about golf and Scotland has been her destination of choice for many golf trips over the years. Anna-Karin Nikonoff, on the other hand, loves whisky, and is only too happy to tell us about her trips to small local distilleries around the country.
“There’s this little island in the Hebrides that I love. It’s called Islay, and it’s home to the Bruichladdich distillery, which is run by a cooperative of whisky enthusiasts. It’s the last whisky distillery on the island that isn’t part of some big consortium, which makes it extra special,” relates
Anna-Karin.
When the cold Scandinavian winter arrives, the heat of far off countries beckons. All the way up in the north of Thailand is a place called Chang Rai that is a favourite of Bente Knudsen. It’s a beautiful city with typical Thai buildings and parks. The city is bordered by the Mae Kok river, which a few miles north meets the Mekong river, forming the legendary Golden Triangle, the borderland between Thailand, Laos and Burma. Many people see Thailand as the perfect holiday destination, with the only disadvantage being that it’s starting to become a bit touristy.
“For me Thailand is the complete destination, but I wonder what might replace it, once everyone has been there,” says Marie Söderlund.
Another favourite place is South Africa, with its great wines, friendly people and beautiful scenery attracting more and more visitors. Several different locations have been mentioned, one of which is Franschhoek. The place is a real paradise, with its breathtaking views, steep mountain crests, babbling brooks and remote paths. Franschhoek, which means French Corner, was the valley where French Huguenots sought refuge from religious persecution, and at the same time planted South Africa’s first vines. The milder climate allows production of both red and white wines, often with French characteristics.
But does a special place always have to be extravagant?
The answer is no. The people Amadeus Magazine spoke to all agree that a place doesn’t have to be on the other side of the globe to be special. All it takes is atmosphere and a little extra something.
