Elegant Resorts to introduce price promise
Elegant Resorts is introducing a 'price promise' as it looks to encourage early bookings.
The company said many partners are pegging this year's prices for travel in 2021 but warned that rates in the luxury sector are expected to rise.
More than 75 hotels and cruise lines are participating in the promise, guaranteeing that the accommodation price will not be superseded or improved at any point before departure,
In a message to customers, managing director Lisa Fitzell pledged that in any case where this does happen, Elegant Resorts would "promise to honour the difference".
The tour operator is also allowing clients to cancel holidays up to 14 days before departure for any booking made before September 30 for travel from October 1 this year until December 31, 2021.
The tour operator said it had been “overwhelmed” by support from clients opting to amend their holiday plans rather than cancel due to Covid-19 travel restrictions. Fitzell said the company had been in contact with every client due to travel before the end of June to reschedule, rearrange or cancel their holidays.
Fitzell added: “We have been overwhelmed by how many clients have opted to make amendments to their travel plans rather than cancel, helping many businesses across in the industry.
“From cabin crew and pilots, to culinary staff, concierge teams and the friendly local people; so many rely upon tourism, and as this unprecedented crisis touches every corner of the globe, your support means more than ever.
“We’re working hard to provide flexibility with balance payments in order to reach the best possible outcome for everyone, but if you would feel more comfortable rearranging your luxury holiday for next year, some of our travel partners are offering to hold 2020 prices for travel in 2021– another simple way to secure the best possible price while supporting destinations we all hold close to our hearts.
“While it still remains challenging to predict what the future of travel will look like, we’re remaining in close contact with our key partners as they begin to share with us how they may operate once international travel resumes – this includes space for social distancing, strict hygiene measures and various forms of testing.
“We’re also anticipating lower capacity on flights, less room availability at hotels and – as a result of these requirements – a rise in luxury holiday prices.
“With this in mind, we continue our pursuit to bring you luxury holidays with peace of mind during this unprecedented time."
“Launching this week, the Elegant Price Promise brings the opportunity to book now to secure the price you pay for your accommodation, which we guarantee will not be superseded or improved at any point before your departure date, or we promise to honour the difference.”