2023 Reflections

Reflecting on what we learnt in 2023, there were two elements for myself that stood out - one very positive and one that required education and strategy development.

The strategy education required was around non direct destinations in Asia (such as Thailand and Vietnam, and parts of Maylasia) due to limited flight paths out of AKL. Unfortunately routes that we have seen in the past fly direct to Asian countries currently do not exist, and yes - Covid hangover is still the cause! We just don't have the plethora (as yet) of the Asian airlines coming back into NZ regularly to provide seats for passengers,  and our own national carrier is still developing these flight paths. My hopeful prediction is that 2024 will see this come back in force with Kiwis getting further investment into Asia and locations that were viable in 2019 will come back in force.

 The positive which the team and I were so happy to see in 2023: Those that travelled further afield (over that usual  6-8 hour flight time and possibly a connecting flight) were blown away with what they got on the ground and the cost savings. Yes, the flight cost is more but you will be blown away with what you get in hotels and venues on the ground and the amazing service level that was provided. I think the greatest learning for us was presenting wildcard options through the year in the initial scoping stages that were picked. The clients got something that was truly different from what they have been getting from national and Tasman destinations.

My learning from 2023 and moving to 2024 - don't be fearful of destinations that are a bit further to reach. If you have the budget and time it is so, so worth the effort, and the results and feedback will be worth it for you and your people.

Strategise with us about your people and destinations. DON'T play it safe by going with the grain, a further afield Asia wildcard destination might be what everyone in your group is looking for in 2024.