Coco Palm participated in the Dublin Holiday Show with the Saint Lucia Tourist Board along with fellow hotel partners from Almond and Smugglers the weekend of January 28-30. Focus on value for money and bargain holidays up for grab drew the crowds.
There has been a dramatic decline in the number of package holidays being sold in Ireland with reports in 2006 of one million packages holidays sold compared with 400,000 last year which was attributable to dramatic changes in the way people arrange their holidays with DIY options becoming increasingly popular. “Despite the dire economy in Ireland, Coco Palm has enjoyed a number of Irish guests over the years thanks to both tour operators and the dramatic change in the way consumers book holidays being more independent which suits our motto of catering to the savvy traveler,” reports Managing Director, Feolla Chastanet who attended the show.
Ryanair’s Managing Director, Michael O’Leary, attended the show to tell it like he does on the state of the industry as guests of the travel agents saying, “Don’t waste your time with tour operators and travel agents. Book your flights with us and your accommodation independently and you will save money,” he stated.
The Holiday Show reported a high turnout of both trade and consumer which has been evident on the SLTB stand. Reports indicate the 55+ holiday market has been more resistant to the downturn in travel with 36 percent planning two holidays this year and over 28 percent planning at least three holidays. Given the freezing temperatures over the last few months with crippling snow over Christmas, many are choosing to get away to help cope with the winter blues. Over 2000 travel representatives from 70 countries attended the annual show at the RDS offering a wide selection.
Saint Lucia Tourist Board was represented by Chelcie Lewis who was joined by hoteliers Feolla Chastanet, Coco Palm; Fiona Boss, Almond Resorts and Peter Grace, Smugglers Resorts.
