Aussie dollar surge makes for great travel deals!
International travel is back in style as consumer confidence strengthens and the Australian dollar continues to climb. RESCU chats to Ski Travel experts Seven Descents and gets their top tips to ensure travellers get the best ski deals in town.
Mark Poole, General Manager, Seven Descents says, “What a difference a year makes. The Australian dollar is surging to near all time highs against most of our favourite ski destination currencies. Due to foreign exchange, the price of a ski trip booked today versus a year ago can be priced 17% to 30% lower.”
For those who think they have missed out, they should think again. Late bookers who usually miss out on early promotions around June will benefit from their well timed procrastination!
Here are Mark’s tips to ensure the best deal for a dream 2010 ski or any other holiday:
- A better price than the brochure: Brochure rates were set months ago. Ask your travel agent or supplier for the latest rates as the strong $AUD should see a minimum 10% discount off rates set six months ago.
- Buy before you go: Ski resorts offer specials and discounted packaged lift tickets in order to swing your purchase decision their way. Of course once you’ve already arrived there is no need to offer discounts….therefore buy before you go!
- Fly the Pacific: Two’s company four is a real crowd. Delta and V Australia have joined Qantas and United to make the usually expensive Pacific route the most competitive ever. What is bad for the airlines is sometimes fantastic for the consumer. Enjoy low fares while you can as history suggests one or more will not remain… and fuel prices are unlikely to stay this low either.
- Bring your mates: Groups of 10 and above can often get further discounted fares and package deals. Round up a few more friends or another family then get your agent to talk to the airlines and wholesalers to find you the best group rate.
- Use an independent agent: Travel agents can shop with a range of suppliers and compare options to get the best deals. Wholesalers will have promotions and specials. If these include lift tickets and transfers, it can save significant amounts compared to purchasing direct or online. Use your travel agent to find the best deal!
Rescu. Recommends:
Seven Descents offer some fabulous ski deals that take full advantage of these tips.
Ski Banff in January: Ski eight days at Banff’s big three resorts, Stay 9 days / 8 nights at the conveniently located Banff Aspen Lodge, continental breakfast, transfers from Calgary. From $1,229 AUD per person (excl. flights).
Ski India and take your dollar further: A true ski adventurer’s and powder chaser’s delight. 9 days / 8 nights including domestic flights from Delhi, rustic yet deluxe Raj style accommodation, lift tickets, all ground transfers, professional Mountain Guides, 1 night on a floating house boat on Lake Dal. $2,850 AUD per person (excl. flights).
For bookings, call 1300 66 76 77 or visit www.SevenDescents.com.au
