Ghaziabad, December 17, 2021
SOTC Travel targets strong growth potential of NCR
Opens its first franchise outlet at Ghaziabad
SOTC Travel inaugurated its new franchise outlet in Ghaziabad today. With a focus to tap into the growing potential of the Ghaziabad market, this expansion augments the company’s footprint and reach in NCR. The new outlet will cater to nearby areas like Vaishali, Vasundhara, and Anand Vihar.
With constant changes amidst the new normal, customers are seeking guidance and reassurance of holiday experts to navigate through the complexities and changes in travel and health protocols. According to SOTC Travel's Third Holiday Readiness Report, significant 77% respondents stated that they seek expert guidance of a holiday specialist. To assist and support customers with their travel requirements, SOTC Travel has set up a new outlet in Ghaziabad. Additionally, to build consumer confidence in travel, all SOTC Travel itineraries are covered by “Assured” Safe Travel Program - developed in association with Apollo Clinics, ensures best in class travel safety protocols covering every distribution, delivery and partner touch point in the travel ecosystem. “TravShield” an upgraded safety commitment of only vaccinated staff and co-passengers among many other precautions, ensure traveller safety in the pandemic era.
Strong pent-up demand coupled with easing of restrictions, vaccine acceptancy and re-opening of borders has encouraged customers from NCR to plan their travel once again. Consumers from Ghaziabad are displaying a strong travel desire to explore international favourites like Maldives, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Switzerland, France, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Turkey, and Egypt; also domestic locales like Goa, Andamans, Kashmir, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, etc. Ghaziabad’s key segments driving growth include multigenerational families, honeymooners, group of friends, millennials/young professionals, business and b-leisure.
SOTC Travel’s new outlet offers end-to-end travel solutions with an array of offerings and services, including: International & Domestic Holidays (Group tours, Personalised Holidays, Cruises, etc.), Value Added Services like Travel Insurance; Visa Services, etc.
Contact Details
SOTC Holiday World
SF-04, Astoria Bouleward Complex
Near Hint Chowk, RDC, Rajnagar, Ghaziabad - 201 002
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “NCR has always been an important market for us, and we are witnessing a strong travel desire from the region. To aid the travel requirements of our customers and offer end-to-end services, we are delighted to announce the opening of our new outlet in Ghaziabad’s key commercial area - Astoria Bouleward Complex. We intend to accelerate demand while supporting our customers as we tap the significant potential of this growing market.”
We are delighted to associate with Mr. Tushar Tyagi as our franchise partner for our first outlet in Ghaziabad. Being a travel expert, Mr. Tyagi brings with him years of industry expertise to assist SOTC and strengthen our presence in the region.”
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted millions of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Tehzeeb Behbahany | +91 9892624812 | tehzeeb.behbahany@sotc.in
Priyanka Banik | +91 9967195977 | Priyanka.Banik@sotc.in
Bhubaneswar, December 16, 2021
SOTC Travel sets its sights on the Odisha market opportunity
Opens its first franchise outlet/store in Bhubaneswar
SOTC Travel recently inaugurated its new franchise outlet in Bhubaneswar. With a focus to leverage the growth market of Odisha, this expansion augments the company’s footprint in Eastern India
In the new age of travel (Covid-era), customers are understandably seeking the guidance and reassurance of holiday experts to navigate through the complexities and changes in travel and health protocols. As per SOTC Travel’s Third Holiday Readiness Report (June 2021), a significant 77% respondents stated that they seek expert guidance of a holiday specialist. To assist and support Odisha customers with their travel requirements, SOTC Travel has set up a new outlet in Bhubaneswar. Additionally, to build consumer confidence in travel, all SOTC Travel itineraries are covered by “Assured” Safe Travel Program - developed in association with Apollo Clinics, ensures best in class travel safety protocols covering every distribution, delivery and partner touch point in the travel ecosystem. “TravShield” an upgraded safety commitment of only vaccinated staff and co-passengers among many other precautions, ensure traveller safety in the pandemic era.
Lockdown fatigue and pent-up demand coupled with easing of restrictions, vaccine acceptancy and re-opening of borders has encouraged customers from Odisha to plan their travels once again. Consumers from Bhubaneswar are displaying a strong travel desire to explore international favourites like Maldives, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Switzerland, France, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Turkey, and Egypt; also domestic locales like Goa, Andamans, Kashmir, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, etc. Odisha’s key segments driving growth include multigenerational families, honeymooners, group of friends, millennials/young professionals, businesses and b-leisure.
SOTC Travel’s outlet in Bhubaneshwar offers end-to-end travel solutions with an array of offerings and services, including: International & Domestic Holidays (Group tours, Personalised Holidays, Cruises, etc.), Value Added Services like Travel Insurance; Visa Services, etc.
Contact Details
SOTC Holiday World
DLF Cyber City, 220
2nd floor, Infocity Patia – 751 024
Email: Sahid.laskar@sotc.in
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “Odisha has always been an important market for us, and we are witnessing a strong travel desire from the region. To aid the travel requirements of our customers and offer end-to-end services, we are delighted to announce the opening of our new outlet in Bhubaneshwar. We intend to accelerate demand while supporting our customers as we tap the significant potential of this growing market.”
He further added, “We are delighted to associate with Mr. Alok Maharana as our franchise partner for our first outlet in Odisha. Being a travel & hospitality industry veteran, Mr. Maharana brings with him years of industry expertise to assist SOTC and strengthen our presence in Odisha.”
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted millions of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Tehzeeb Behbahany | +91 9892624812 | tehzeeb.behbahany@sotc.in
Priyanka Banik | +91 9967195977 | Priyanka.Banik@sotc.in
Mumbai, November 16, 2021
Traveller insights reveal uptick in desire/spends for exceptional experiences
Thomas Cook India and SOTC launch Undiscovered Antarctica
Exploration of the 7th Continent on a Luxury Cruise
• 10-day Cruise on the Ultra Luxe – L’ Austral with Deluxe stateroom cabins with balcony
• An adventure of a lifetime: experience unparalleled landscapes and wildlife of the 7th Continent
• Guaranteed Departure: February 20, 2022
Indians are displaying strong and growing appetite for once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences and are not hesitating to increase their spends – reveals consumer data-analytics of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group Company, SOTC Travel. To capitalise on this opportunity, the Companies have announced Undiscovered Antarctica – taking Indians on a voyage of discovery of the magnificent 7th Continent. This distinctive holiday presents the awe-inspiring beauty of Antarctica while on-board a 10-day sailing on Ponant’s luxury cruise ship, L’ Austral.
The lockdowns/restrictions of the pandemic have given Indians a new-found appreciation for travel and a strong desire for truly exceptional/ bucket-list experiences - away from crowds. To tap into this growing travel trend, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have introduced an adventure of a lifetime via its Undiscovered Antarctica luxury cruise holiday. This exceptional trip invites Indians to embark on an expedition that is truly off-the-beaten-track, a voyage to a pristine land of the world’s largest glaciers, icebergs, the awe-inspiring Antarctic whales, penguin colonies and avian species. Adventure seekers can opt for exciting experiences like kayaking amidst the icy waters, hiking tours, and more. One can even visit Port Lockroy – home to the southernmost post office in the world, to send loved ones a postcard featuring the Antarctica stamp. An additional optional tour includes the resort town of Ushuaia, located at the southernmost tip of South America and hence referred to as the “End of the World”!
This Limited Period offer includes:
• Return Airfare India – Buenos Aires – India in Economy Class
• Flight from Buenos Aires – Ushuaia – Buenos Aires
• Cost of Multiple Entry Argentina & Chile Visas
• 2 Nights Accommodation in a 4* city-centre hotel in Buenos Aires
• 10 Nights on board the Ultra Luxury L’ Austral in Deluxe Stateroom cabins with balcony
• All major excursions on board the cruise
• All meals on board the cruise (including vegetarian meals on all days & Indian meals on select days)
• All beverages – Soft Drinks, Juices, Tea / Coffee, Champagne, Regular Wines & Spirits on board
• All Private Airport Transfers
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “The pandemic has brought about a new perspective to life – and with it, exceptional travel experiences are seeing high demand; also an increased willingness to spend. We have hence introduced our exclusive Undiscovered Antarctica holidays, amidst the serene yet spectacular Frozen Continent – to bring true delight for every traveller. Antarctica offers an ideal destination for travel enthusiasts eager to explore the polar region and witness the matchless experiences it has to offer. The unexplored 7th Continent has an array of incredible elements and we invite our customers to embark on a journey of a lifetime with our exciting holiday.”
Additionally, this itinerary is covered by our “Assured” Safe Travel Program - developed in association with Apollo Clinics, ensures best in class travel safety protocols covering every distribution, delivery and partner touch point in the travel ecosystem. “TravShield” an upgraded safety commitment of only vaccinated staff and co-passengers among many other precautions, ensure traveller safety in the pandemic era.”
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “The pandemic has completely transformed the Indian consumer’s approach towards travel. Customers are yearning to explore the finer nuances of offbeat destinations and the exceptional experiences on offer. Known for its striking beauty and wilderness, Antarctica makes for a perfect destination for travellers seeking the unconventional. We have thus curated a special 13-day itinerary to explore the 7th continent with its pristine white scenery, unique wildlife while indulging in the luxurious on-board experiences and build fond memories of a lifetime.”
Click here for details:
Thomas Cook
SOTC
*T&C apply
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Travel Circle International Limited (TCI 勝景遊), Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Go Vacation, Private Safaris East & South Africa
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency - India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Report (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution - India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller - Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has reaffirmed the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
Prathama Tripathi | +91 8777723664 | Prathama.Tripathi@thomascook.in
Tehzeeb Behbahany | +91 9892624812 | tehzeeb.behbahany@sotc.in
Priyanka Banik | +91 9967195977 | Priyanka.Banik@sotc.in
Mumbai, November 10, 2021
To induce customers and accelerate leisure travel revival
Thomas Cook India & SOTC launch a host of attractive offers for Holidayers till December 31st - including for Christmas and New Year
• Best price, Best Airfare, Best Service!
• Buy One Get One Free – Companion offer
• Best Air-inclusive holidays (protection from airfare inflation in this peak period)
• Guaranteed availability
• Range of destinations: Maldives, Dubai, Europe, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Andamans, Himachal, Kashmir, Kerala, Rajasthan, Goa and more
• Limited time offer – book by November 19, 2021
With the holiday season approaching and Indians needing to consume their unspent leave, Thomas Cook (India) Limited - India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group Company, SOTC Travel have launched a slew of unbeatable deals across top domestic and international destinations. The limited time offer is available for all bookings received by November 19, 2021 across the companies’ omnichannel network of portal, contact centres, apps and extensive retail outlets - pan India.
The upcoming Christmas and New Year season is resulting in a strong uptick in consumer sentiment and Thomas Cook and SOTC’s consumer survey reiterates that over 85% respondents are keen to holiday before the year-end. However, travel during this super peak season comes with clear challenges: escalation in pricing and limited supply. Hence, in a smart strategy to accelerate bookings while making it effortless for its consumers, Thomas Cook and SOTC have launched a host of highly attractive offers:
Leveraging the double benefit of its pre-booked/purchased air and hotel inventory at special negotiated rates, the Companies guarantee Indians the best price and airfare for their holidays - with the added bonus of confirmed availability. Also available is the unique Buy One Get One Free – Companion Offer across select India and international destinations.
Thomas Cook and SOTC’s Christmas-New Year holiday specials include an array of India’s favourite domestic locations like Kashmir, Rajasthan, Goa, Himachal, Andamans, Cordelia Cruises; Dubai-Abu Dhabi, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Switzerland, France, Germany and Egypt (international)
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “We are delighted to see the surge in travel desire for the upcoming season and we want to make it easy for our customers to utilise their unspent leave and take that much awaited vacation. And so, we have launched very attractive offers like our best price guarantee, confirmed availability, buy one get one free, etc. to help our customers book a perfect holiday at a perfect price!”
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “With less than 2 months to go until 2022, it is time to tick off one’s travel bucket list of ‘21 and explore favourite domestic and international locales. This season brings with it great weather, scenic views, festivities, and together with our unbeatable pricing will ensure a memorable holiday. We encourage our customers to grab this limited time offer valid until November 19th, and book their much-needed holiday with their family and loved ones. Our Holidays are covered by “Assured” Safe Travel Program - developed in association with Apollo Clinics, ensures best in class travel safety protocols covering every distribution, delivery and partner touch point in the travel ecosystem. “TravShield” an upgraded safety commitment of only vaccinated staff and co-passengers among many other precautions, ensure traveller safety in the pandemic era.
Click here for details:
Thomas Cook
SOTC
*T&C apply
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Travel Circle International Limited (TCI 勝景遊), Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Go Vacation, Private Safaris East & South Africa
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency - India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Report (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution - India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller - Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has reaffirmed the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
Prathama Tripathi | +91 8777723664 | Prathama.Tripathi@thomascook.in
Tehzeeb Behbahany | +91 9892624812 | tehzeeb.behbahany@sotc.in
Priyanka Banik | +91 9967195977 | Priyanka.Banik@sotc.in
Mumbai, November 08, 2021
Thomas Cook India & SOTC identify strong customer desire for outdoor and adventure travel
Introduce a range of thrilling Safaris & Jungle Experiences
• Extensive portfolio of India’s top wildlife safaris and nature parks
• From short breaks to immersive in-depth itineraries
• Exceptional elements: Bush Dining, Safari Game Drives, Night Trails, Escorted Nature Walks and more
• Insurance for all below 70 years of age
• Attractive pricing starting at Rs. 4,990.00 per person
Post 18 months of restrictions, being confined at home and living in a virtual world, Thomas Cook (India) Limited - India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group Company, SOTC Travel, have identified a strong pent-up demand for outdoor and adventure experiences. India’s unparalleled biodiversity, exceptional wildlife and jungle experiences hold strong allure, and the companies have hence launched an exciting portfolio of Safaris & Jungle Experiences intended to target India’s millennials/young professionals, honeymooners, families; equally corporates - with exciting team-building jungle getaways. The products are attractively priced, starting from Rs 4,990.00 per person for stays of 2-7 nights.
With the pandemic bringing focus to health and safety, while Indians are longing to escape from the monotony/ restrictions of work-from-home, they are actively seeking holidays away from crowds. Thomas Cook and SOTC’s Safari & Jungle Experiences are hence designed to offer safe/secluded yet magical landscapes: from rugged scrubland to lush forests, across rolling hills, watering holes and the floodplains of the mighty Brahmaputra to the awe-inspiring Sundarbans - the world’s largest delta.
Thomas Cook and SOTC have included India’s top game reserves with the thrill of crossing paths with majestic tigers at Corbett, India’s oldest National Park - regarded as the ultimate tiger safari destination, or sighting a leopard at the Ranthambore National Park; a glimpse of snow leopards at Hemis, one of the world’s highest altitude parks; Bandhavgarh National Park, once a royal hunting ground and now a protected reserve for the Royal Bengal Tiger; the famed Asiatic Lion at the Gir National Park; spotting panthers, bears, pythons and elephants at Kanha National Park featured in Kipling’s ‘Mowgli’, a variety of migratory birds at the Kumarakom/Vembanad Bird Sanctuary or the magnificent one-horned rhinoceros at Kaziranga National Park - a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In addition to exciting safari drives via a 4x4, atop an elephant, camel or in a canoe, Thomas Cook and SOTC have thoughtfully incorporated personalized/ immersive experiences like a picnic lunch post a safari drive, sundowners at an observation tower for spectacular views; campfires with bush dining or an exclusive 4-course meal. Exhilarating wildlife encounters include a night safari, wildlife trails with trained naturalists; also cycling, bird-watching or village walks with local herdsmen. Rejuvenation options include spa-wellness therapy.
To ensure a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the accommodation is eclectic, with a choice of rugged tented camps, traditional mud dwellings, stone cottages, colonial bungalows to luxurious royal safari lodges or sleeping under the stars in your private machan.
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “Our jungle safaris are designed to delight the senses amidst serene yet spectacular outdoor vistas and an equal measure of adrenaline infused wildlife experiences! The past 18 months have restricted Indians to the confines of their homes, and so our thoughtfully designed itineraries include India’s favourite national parks and game reserves and are packed with exciting activities for millennials, families, honeymooners and corporates alike. We have ready-to-book and itineraries co-curated with our experts based on our customers’ specific interests, be it bird watching, photography or nocturnal jungle trails. India has an incredible diversity of flora and fauna and we invite our customers to embark on a journey of discovery with our exciting product range starting at a very affordable Rs 4,990.00.
Our Holidays are equipped with TravShield - comprehensive Safety Commitment & Assured Safe Travel Program in association with Apollo Clinics:
• Vaccinated Travel Advisors & Contactless Bookings
• Free Re-scheduling & Cancellation
• Covid Insurance Cover with 24/7 Doctor on Call
• Vaccinated / Covid negative fellow travellers
• Covid negative / Vaccinated Drivers, Hotel Staff
• Sanitized Rooms & Vehicles.”
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “With easing travel restrictions, it is time to plan a vacation that not only ensures unforgettable experiences but also disconnects us from living in a digital world bound by virtual meetings/conferences. Keeping the requirements of our customers in mind, we have curated itineraries complete with thrilling escapades, rejuvenation and unique experiences. From exhilarating safaris, luxurious stays, guided nature walks and wildlife trails, we have something unique for everyone - to enjoy their well-deserved holiday in the lap of nature.”
Click here for details:
Thomas Cook
SOTC
*T&C apply
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Travel Circle International Limited (TCI 勝景遊), Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Go Vacation, Private Safaris East & South Africa
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency - India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Report (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution - India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller - Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has reaffirmed the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
Prathama Tripathi | +91 8777723664 | Prathama.Tripathi@thomascook.in
Tehzeeb Behbahany | +91 9892624812 | tehzeeb.behbahany@sotc.in
Priyanka Banik | +91 9967195977 | Priyanka.Banik@sotc.in
Mumbai, November 02, 2021
Thomas Cook India & SOTC target the growing opportunity for Winter Travel
Launch Winter Holidays with
Special deals/offers for Europe, United Kingdom and
India’s Kashmir, Himachal, Uttarakhand and North East
• Buy One, Get One – Companion Free on select International and Domestic destinations
• Super Savers from Rs 48,990.00, Early Bird Family Discounts, exclusive offers ,spot deals
• Range of favourite Domestic and International destinations
• Europe & UK Holidays starting at Rs 136,000.00; India Holidays starting at Rs 17,990.00
• Honeymoon specials starting at Rs 35,990.00
With a growing vaccinated population and easing of restrictions, customer confidence in travel is witnessing a strong rebound. As per Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s survey that covered metros, mini-metros, Tier 2 – 3 cities, 77% respondents are keen to travel in 2021 itself. Additionally, winter experiences during the Christmas-New Year festive season presents a significant travel opportunity, especially for working professionals yet to consume their annual leave. Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s leading integrated travel services company, and its Group Company, SOTC Travel Ltd., have therefore launched an extensive range of Winter Holidays with attractive pricing, special inclusions, discounts, etc. For honeymooners, the specially designed itineraries offer unique experiences at some of the world’s most romantic destinations. To guide and reassure, an experienced Tour Manager accompanies the Companies’ group tours. Thomas Cook India and SOTC have also curated exclusive customised holidays, self-drive programs and luxury experiences under its “Signature” portfolio.
Snowscapes of winter along with the festivities and light-ups of Christmas across the UK and Europe’s Switzerland, France, Germany and Austria hold strong allure for Indian travellers. Winter’s wonderland offers unique experiences: snowboarding/ tobogganing or reindeer sleighs, staying in a glass igloo with ringside views of the spectacular Northern Lights, a visit to Santa’s Village in Rovaniemi, panoramic winter vistas aboard the Glacier Express, winter saunas/spas with fire and ice pools or indulging in fondue in a tram! Not surprising then, that Europe and UK are in top demand; Maldives, Turkey and Egypt are seeing a strong continuum. Growing interest for Expo 2020 Dubai is giving rise to significant interest for Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Domestic locales like Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal, North-East for winter experiences; Rajasthan, Goa, Gujarat, Andamans and Kerala are also high on the Indian travellers wish list for November - December 2021.
Winter Holidays
Super Savers starting at Rs 48,990.00 (including airfare, accommodation, sightseeing, transfers and meals): Switzerland, Maldives, Dubai, Turkey
Europe starting at Rs 136,000.00 (including airfare, accommodation, sightseeing, transfers, meals along with an experienced tour manager): England (London, Birmingham & Manchester, Scotland); Switzerland; Europe (France, Switzerland & Germany);Spain
Also: UK Self-Drive Programs
Honeymoon Specials starting at Rs 35,990.00 with Unique Romantic Experiences
International destinations: France, Switzerland, Dubai, Maldives and more
Domestic destinations: Kashmir, Himachal, North East, Andamans and more
India Holidays starting at Rs 17,990.00 with a Buy One, Get One – Companion Free offer (on select destinations)
Kashmir, Himachal, North East, Andamans and Kerala.
Biking and Premium Camping trips
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “Customer confidence is on the rise and with it a strong demand for winter/year end travel. We have launched our Winter Holidays that offer spectacular winter vistas coupled with unique experiences and special offers – for a perfect much awaited holiday. From family bonding over snow experiences, couples celebrating amidst romantic locales, to friends delighting in winter cuisine and wine, we have included a host of exceptional winter activities across a variety of favourites like Switzerland, UK, France, Germany, Austria, Dubai and Abu-Dhabi – with the Dubai Expo 2020 providing a once in a lifetime experience. We invite our customers to book our Winter Holidays and witness unique Christmas Markets, the Northern Lights, and seasonal specials like mulled wine, hot fondue, raclette cheese experiences, and more.”
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “Winter Travel is gaining momentum and customers are inclined to travel to new destinations and build on happy memories, especially due to the restrictions in the past 18 months. With rise in customer confidence in air travel and to cater to the growing appetite we are delighted to present an array of winter specials for our customers from families, groups of friends, millennials, and honeymooners - to experience winter wonderland experiences from thrilling snow activities, to food and wine specialities, to rejuvenating wellness experiences, to visiting Santa Claus’ home town in Finland, there are host of unique experiences to tick off from your bucket list. Customers can benefit from the special family discounts like Early bird discounts, Buy One, Get one – Companion free along with inclusions, curated keeping in mind the needs of our customers.
We recommend customers to book their favourite holiday with us along with our unique with TravShield our comprehensive Safety Commitment & Assured Safe Travel Program in association with Apollo Clinics.”
For details on the special United Kingdom and Europe Diwali and Christmas offers, click here:
Thomas Cook
SOTC
*T&C apply
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Travel Circle International Limited (TCI 勝景遊), Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Go Vacation, Private Safaris East & South Africa
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency - India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Report (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution - India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller - Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has reaffirmed the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
Mumbai, October 27, 2021
Thomas Cook India & SOTC identify a strong travel demand from India’s couple/honeymoon segment
Introduce special Domestic Honeymoon Specials & Romantic Breaks
• Range of India’s top romantic locales: Kashmir, Rajasthan, Andamans, Goa, and the North East
• Unique elements/experiences like Exclusive Private Dinners, Wine tasting, Adventure, Water Sports, and more
• Guided Services and personalized itineraries
• Attractive pricing starting at Rs. 16,990.00
With the upcoming wedding season and over 18 months of pandemic paused honeymoons, Thomas Cook (India) Limited - India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group Company and SOTC Travel have identified strong pent-up demand from India’s couple segment. To capitalise on this significant opportunity in the face of limited reopening of international borders, the companies have curated special honeymoon and romantic travel products across top locales in India.
Set against spectacular locales, the romantic escapades feature a range of exclusive experiences designed for newly-weds and couples looking to spend quality time together - at India’s favourite honeymoon destinations like Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, North East, Rajasthan, Goa, Andamans, Coorg/Ooty and Kerala.
Personalized elements have been thoughtfully incorporated for couples to ensure the perfect romantic getaway: a night under the stars in a luxury tree house overlooking magical waterfalls, cruising aboard a luxurious houseboat, exclusive accommodation with private plunge pools and spectacular lake views, private chauffeur driven personalized local tours/ guided heritage walks, a picnic lunch set in an apple orchard or dining in the moonlight. For romance with a bit of adventure, included are thrilling seaplane rides, an elephant safari, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, zorbing, parachuting or exciting treks. Rejuvenation options on offers are spa-wellness therapy, a traditional Ayurveda couples massage, etc.
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “Our Honeymoon packages are designed to cater to India’s newlywed couples who have missed out on their honeymoon during the last 18 months or are planning their wedding shortly. Our special romantic products start at Rs 16,990.00 with itineraries that can be co-curated with our experts – as per the interest of the couple. We are also targeting couples wanting to travel for special occasions, celebrate anniversaries or just spend quality time bonding with their partner. Our itineraries set against exotic locales, offer exclusive elements to ensure a truly once in a lifetime experience.”
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “The pandemic has been particularly tough for newlyweds – with travel restrictions coming in the way of their honeymoon. Keeping this in mind, we have curated delightful romantic escapades across India’s favourite destinations, complete with bespoke and unique experiences. Our range of experiences extend from romantic getaways, luxurious stays, to thrilling adventure activities for couples to finally spend some much needed quality time together.”
Our Holidays are equipped with TravShield - comprehensive Safety Commitment & Assured Safe Travel Program in association with Apollo Clinics:
• Vaccinated Travel Advisors & Contactless Bookings
• Free Re-scheduling & Cancellation
• Covid Insurance Cover with 24/7 Doctor on Call
• Vaccinated / Covid negative fellow travellers
• Covid negative / Vaccinated Drivers, Hotel Staff
• Sanitized Rooms & Vehicles.”
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Travel Circle International Limited (TCI 勝景遊), Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Go Vacation, Private Safaris East & South Africa
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency - India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Report (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution - India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller - Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has reaffirmed the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
Prathama Tripathi | +91 8777723664 | Prathama.Tripathi@thomascook.in
Tehzeeb Behbahany | +91 9892624812 | tehzeeb.behbahany@sotc.in
Priyanka Banik | +91 9967195977 | Priyanka.Banik@sotc.in
Mumbai, October 21, 2021
Thomas Cook India and SOTC partner with Vistara
Sign exclusive long-term agreement
Launch Vistara Getaways - exciting range of air-inclusive holiday packages
• Option of Ready-to-Book and Personalised Holidays
• From City Breaks, Culture-Heritage, Wildlife to Wellness, Spiritual Sojourns and more!
• Extensive range of locales pan India
• Attractive price points; Options from Value to Premium
• Health & Safety focus ensured via Thomas Cook and SOTC’s TravShield - comprehensive Safety Commitment & Assured Safe Travel Program in association with Apollo Clinics with Vistara’s world class sanitization standards
Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s leading integrated travel services company, and its Group Company SOTC Travel, have partnered with Vistara, India’s finest full-service carrier (a joint venture of the Tata Group and Singapore Airlines), to launch Vistara Getaways. The exclusive partnership offers Vistara’s customers a unique and diverse range of holidays from Thomas Cook and SOTC and at attractive prices. A user-friendly interface created by Thomas Cook and SOTC empowers customers with simple, quick and convenient online bookings/transactions.
As customer confidence in travel witnesses an encouraging resurgence, Indians are seeking to catch up on delayed holiday plans, avail a quick break or celebrate special occasions with loved ones. In the face of this positive outlook, Thomas Cook and SOTC in an exclusive partnership with Vistara’s newly introduced Vistara Getaways, bring customers an unbeatable 4 pronged benefit: unique air-inclusive holiday experiences, special pricing, the reassurance and service excellence that is the hallmark of the three leadership brands and the added reassurance of Thomas Cook and SOTC’s TravShield - comprehensive Safety Commitment & Assured Safe Travel Program in association with Apollo Clinics and Vistara’s stringent safety and hygiene protocols.
On offer are an array of top domestic locales connected via Vistara’s extensive network of 30 domestic hubs, including India’s metros, Tier 2 and 3 destinations like Mumbai, Goa, Kolkata, Pune, Chennai, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Delhi, Bagdogra, Amritsar, Udaipur, Kochi, Port Blair, Leh, Jammu, Guwahati, Patna, Bhubaneshwar, etc.
Covering a varied range, Vistara Getaways offers customers a choice of holidays specially designed by Thomas Cook and SOTC: from workations, staycations, family getaways, spiritual sojourns, wildlife safaris, wellness retreats, city breaks to honeymoon specials and romantic breaks, among others. Based on their personal preference, customers can opt for ready-to-book holidays, add-on experiences or co-curate personalised itineraries together with Thomas Cook and SOTC’s holiday experts.
Mr. Mahesh Iyer, Executive Director & CEO, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “With easing of restrictions and Indians displaying increased travel appetite, we are delighted to announce our exclusive partnership with Vistara. Vistara Getaways offers unmatched air-inclusive holiday experiences across a range of domestic destinations with the added reassurance of Thomas Cook and SOTC’s TravShield - comprehensive Safety Commitment & Assured Safe Travel Program in association with Apollo Clinics and Vistara’s stringent safety and hygiene protocols. This exciting holiday portfolio is targeted at not just families and corporate b-leisure travellers, but also millennials and young working professionals and brings together the collective expertise of the three brands - to create truly memorable holiday experiences.”
He added, “The product range is live at getaways.airvistara.com, with our teams at Thomas Cook and SOTC having built the entire end-to-end customized e-commerce website and a world class interface.”
Mr. Vinod Kannan, Chief Commercial Officer, Vistara said, “With the market showing strong signs of recovery and people beginning to travel again, we are hopeful that Vistara Getaways will enable us to offer more value and enhance their overall travel experience. We are also excited about the association with Thomas Cook and SOTC, which is a promise of consistent, world-class experience to our customers across all aspects of their travel.”
Vistara is India’s highest-rated airline on Skytrax and Tripadvisor, and the winner of several ‘Best Airline’ awards besides being lauded for cabin cleanliness and safety standards.
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Travel Circle International Limited (TCI 勝景遊), Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Go Vacation, Private Safaris East & South Africa
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency - India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Report (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution - India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller - Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has reaffirmed the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
About Vistara (TATA SIA Airlines Limited): TATA SIA Airlines Limited, known by the brand name Vistara, is a 51:49 joint venture between Tata Sons Private Limited and Singapore Airlines Limited (SIA). Vistara brings together Tata’s and SIA’s legendary hospitality and renowned service excellence to offer the finest full-service flying experience in India. Vistara commenced its commercial operations on January 9, 2015, with an aim to set new standards in the aviation industry in India and it today connects destinations across India and abroad. The airline has a fleet of 50 aircraft, including 38 Airbus A320, four Airbus A321neo, six Boeing 737-800NG, and two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, and has flown more than 28 million customers since starting operations.
For more information about Vistara, visit www.airvistara.com
Media Enquiries:
Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
Mumbai, October 13, 2021
Thomas Cook India & SOTC ink a strategic agreement with Air Arabia
to Curate and Distribute - Air Arabia Holidays in India
Range of bundled & customised air-inclusive holidays: flights on Air Arabia with hotels, transfers, guided sightseeing/attractions curated by Thomas Cook India and SOTC
Signalling a clear intent to capitalise on the strong and growing opportunity presented by the India market, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group Company, SOTC Travel Ltd., have signed a 3 year agreement with Air Arabia, the first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC) operator in the Middle East and North Africa. The partnership will deliver on a range of customisable air-inclusive holidays via a technology platform built by Thomas Cook India and SOTC. The exciting and extensive holiday portfolio will be curated by Thomas Cook and SOTC, with air inventory and exclusive fares being provided by Air Arabia. The partnership expands Thomas Cook India & SOTC reach with access to Air Arabia’s customer base in India and provides marketing investment to accelerate demand by targeting a range of India’s travel segments – across families, couples, millennials, groups of friends, seniors; also B-leisure customers.
Air Arabia operates from 12 Indian cities (metros like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and viable Tier 2-3 markets like Ahmedabad, Calicut, Coimbatore, Goa, Jaipur, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram; Nagpur from Nov 2021) giving India’s travellers an opportunity to holiday across its extensive network of over 170 international favourites – spanning the Middle East, CIS countries, Africa, Europe and Asia, via easy access of its gateway - Sharjah.
Indian consumers benefit via attractively priced bundled holiday products (air + land) that leverage the respective strengths of the industry leaders - Thomas Cook India, SOTC and Air Arabia. The partnership brings travellers the added advantage of a suite of ready-to-book holidays and customisable itineraries – all bookable via a simple and seamless online platform, conceptualised and built by Thomas Cook India & SOTC. Additionally, Thomas Cook & SOTC will also support customers through its omni-channel network of contact centres and over 350 retail outlets pan India.
Mr. Mahesh Iyer, Executive Director & CEO, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “Our teams across Thomas Cook and SOTC have spent time meaningfully these past 18 months in re-imagining our business and I am hence truly delighted to sign a strategic agreement with Air Arabia, that expands our market. The consumer advantage is significant: an enticing proposition that leverages the strengths of Air Arabia’s highly attractive air product-pricing-network with the diverse holidays range and combined buying-power of Thomas Cook India and SOTC – leaders in the holidays domain. Further, our seamless distribution via an online platform built by Team Thomas Cook and SOTC, brings customers the convenience and choice of pre-packaged or customisable products and a simple, smooth, end-to-end experience. For that added assurance, via the partnership, customers are extended support via our contact centres and extensive retail presence, pan India.”
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Travel Circle International Limited (TCI 勝景遊), Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Go Vacation, Private Safaris East & South Africa
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency - India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Report (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution - India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller - Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has reaffirmed the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
Mumbai, October 12, 2021
Thomas Cook India & SOTC launch a series of Consumer Roadshows to Capitalise on high travel demand/opportunity of the Festive Season
Holiday Experts on site - to guide/assist customers on travel and health protocols
Special offers/deals across India & International holidays - to accelerate spot bookings
• Buy One Get One FREE! Companion Offer
• Early Bird Offers; Family Discounts; Crazy Deal Products
• Special Festive Group Tours – Guaranteed departures accompanied by an experienced Tour Manager
• Exciting Biking, Camping & Adventure Holidays
• Honeymoon Specials
• EXPO 2020 Dubai – great deals!
The steady lifting of restrictions across India and international destinations, vaccine acceptance and the potential reopening of commercial flights, is giving rise to significant travel demand Additionally, India’s upcoming Festive Season is proving to be a powerful driver of travel desire. To capitalise on this high potential opportunity, Thomas Cook India, India’s leading integrated travel services company, and its Group Company, SOTC Travel, have launched a series of physical consumer roadshows across key source markets pan India.
Travel intent is at an all-time high: Thomas Cook & SOTC’s latest survey reveals that over 85% respondents are keen to holiday between October to December 2021; 77% preferring international travel and 82% domestic. However, the constant flux in entry-exit regulations and health-safety protocols can be challenging. Thomas Cook and SOTC’s physical consumer roadshows have hence been conceptualised to guide and assist customers through the complexities of travel in this Covid-era. The companies’ experts are stationed at each venue to provide advice and guidance in planning a smooth holiday experience.
Key consumer catchment areas have been selected across high potential source markets including metros like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai and Bengaluru mini-metros like Pune and Tier 2-3 locations across India, including Jaipur, Jodhpur, Indore, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Lucknow, Guwahati, Ahmedabad, Surat, Baroda, Nashik, Madurai, Coimbatore, Vijayawada, Mangaluru/Udupi, Nagpur, Bhubaneshwar, etc. To ensure customer convenience, most of the roadshows are being held on weekends, at the companies’ outlets and a range of easily accessible venues – in close proximity to residential areas.
Special Offers at the Roadshows*:
• Buy One Get One FREE! Companion Offer
• Early Bird Offers
• Family Discounts per family
• Taj Voucher of Rs 10,000.00 on India Extravaganza & Grand India Holidays
• Crazy Deal Products
• Special Festive Group Tours - Guaranteed departures accompanied by an experienced Tour Manager
• Exciting Biking, Camping & Adventure Holidays
• Honeymoon Specials
• EXPO 2020 Dubai – great deals!
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. said, “We have been witnessing a surge in holiday demand, with the upcoming festive season being a powerful driver. Our physical consumer roadshows will hence benefit our customers with our holiday experts present to provide much needed guidance on travel requirements and health-safety protocols while planning a smooth and memorable holiday in 2021. We have an exciting range of holidays - from biking, camping and adventure experiences to leisurely family bonding trips and special festive group tours – accompanied by our experienced Tour Managers. Kashmir continues to be a top favourite for our customers, and additionally we are now seeing strong interest for Andamans, Rajasthan, Goa, North East and Gujarat too. We are the top contributor for Cordelia cruises and have already booked 2000 customers between Thomas Cook & SOTC.
With Indians looking forward to the highly acclaimed EXPO 2020 Dubai, we have included a delightful range of ready to book and customised options with a guided tour - and special discounts. With positive announcements from UK on no quarantine for doubly vaccinated Indians and re-opening of borders for USA from November (for valid visa holders); we anticipate a surge to both destinations that have always been favourites. Our unbeatable offers will ensure additional benefit to our customers as they plan their perfect holiday this festive/winter season!”
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said,
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “Our Roadshows have been strategically planned to leverage the strong and growing travel demand this festive season. Our locations offer easy access to enable customers and their families to walk in on weekends and select from an array of options at very attractive prices. We have great offers available - like our Buy One Get One Free-Companion Offer, Early Bird, family discounts, and more! We’ve included India’s top favourites in Kashmir, Andamans, Goa, Rajasthan, North-East; also international experiences like Russia’s Lapland & Northern Lights to autumn colours and Christmas markets and winter activities.
The Thomas Cook & SOTC Holidays are strong equipped with TravShield - comprehensive Safety Commitment & Assured Safe Travel Program in association with Apollo Clinics:
• Vaccinated Travel Advisors & Contactless Bookings
• Free Re-scheduling & Cancellation
• Covid Insurance Cover with 24/7 Doctor on Call
• Vaccinated / Covid negative fellow travellers
• Covid negative / Vaccinated Drivers, Hotel Staff
• Sanitized Rooms & Vehicles.”
*T&C apply
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Travel Circle International Limited (TCI 勝景遊), Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Go Vacation, Private Safaris East & South Africa
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency - India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Report (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution - India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller - Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has reaffirmed the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
Mumbai, October 6, 2021
Thomas Cook India & SOTC survey reveals
Significant travel intent for last quarter 2021:
UAE & Expo 2020 a key driver
• Over 85% respondents keen to travel between Oct–Dec 2021
• 77% interested in international holidays; of this 60% indicate intent to visit the UAE (Dubai-Abu Dhabi) with Expo 2020 heading the list of favourites
• Average duration of stay for Expo 2020: 4 – 7 nights
• Key Consumer segments: Families, Couples, Millennials (Techies), Education/Students; MICE, Business (start-ups with Tech background, Trade Associations, CXO/CIOs) & B-leisure
• Average Age group: 35 years and above
• Willingness to spend: Average Rs. 70,000 per person (4nights); upward of Rs 2,50,000 for a luxury trip
Thomas Cook India, India’s leading integrated travel services company, and its Group Company SOTC Travel Ltd., have jointly surveyed over 2500 customers across India’s key metros like Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Chennai and mini-metros like Pune and Tier 2 & 3 source markets, including Jaipur, Lucknow, Madurai, Kochi, Indore, Cuttack, Nagpur, Ahmedabad and Surat. The survey reveals insightful customer data, behaviour and travel trends with UAE (Dubai-Abu Dhabi) and Expo 2020 Dubai emerging as a clear driver of international demand for Q4 2021:
• Significant Travel Desire: 85% of respondents keen to travel (77% International, 61% domestic)
• Over 60% indicate clear intent to visit UAE with Expo 2020 Dubai topping the leader board of favourites; also cricket fixtures of IPL & T20
With re-opening of borders, vaccine acceptance/easing of restrictions, Indians are displaying strong travel appetite for UAE (Dubai & Abu Dhabi). Expo 2020 Dubai, starting October 1, 2021 and continuing up to March 31, 2022, has created a significant opportunity - with over 47% of respondents indicating keen interest to visit the event at least once this year.
Demand for Expo 2020 Dubai extends across a range of segments:
Business Travellers (MNCs, India corporate houses, SMEs) & Trade Associations: 15%
MICE Travellers: 25%
Leisure Travellers (Families/ Extended families, Couples, Millennials, Seniors): 45%
Education: 15%
No. of Visits & Duration of Stay:
47% respondents are likely to visit Expo 2020 at least once between October – December 2021
57% respondents indicated they would visit the Expo more than once (Oct 2021 – March 2022)
Average duration of stay: ranges from 4 - 7 nights
Willingness to Spend:
Approx. Rs. 70,000 for a trip of 4 nights to upward of Rs. 250,000 per person for luxury products
Customer Wishlist: Top Activities/Experiences at Expo 2020 Dubai:
• Business: Automation presentations/launches, Sustainability ideation, Architectural innovations, Seminars & Summits, Business engagements
• MICE: Networking, Award ceremonies & Gala Business Events
• Families: Mars-inspired playground, penguin robots, an array of fun activity like an exciting transparent slide, children menus and family-friendly dining options, extravagant fireworks
• Couples: Future of space travel, driverless cars, exciting acrobatic and opera shows, robotic bands, walk through waterfalls, rivers, mangroves, and wander through streets of famous world cities
• Millennials: Workshops by world-renowned chefs, Futuristic Culinary Experiences – Lunch with robots, sensory engagement with innovative technologies, Virgin Hyperloop One simulator experience, healthcare innovations, A.R. Rahman’s Firdaus Orchestra, Expo Beats - shows & performances, Late Nights @ Expo (every Thursday & Friday) & Jalsat @ Expo for people & artists from across the world
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. said, “Our survey highlights strong travel demand for the last quarter 2021, with 60% customers indicating UAE with Expo 2020 Dubai as their top preference; followed by the cricket fixtures of IPL/T20. The survey further reveals strong appeal across range of traveller segments – from India’s millennials, families, students, and business to our MICE corporate and across India’s metros as well as Tier 2-3 source markets. For industry associations and businesses, Expo 2020 Dubai offers an invaluable platform for ideation, R&D, business and networking. MICE being a strong segment driver, we have designed unique programmes – tailor made and co-curated based on the interests of specific corporates across Insurance, Automobile, Pharma, e-Commerce, Start-ups & Trade Associations. We are also seeing interest in gala dinners and events at the Expo site itself. In addition to Expo 2020, the exciting cricket fixtures of the T20 World Cup & IPL, have allowed us to combine the two opportunities with a compelling product for the India market.”
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “As per our survey there is an encouraging travel desire and confidence amongst customers pan-India. The survey reveals positive interest for families to witness this once-in-a-lifetime global mega-event. Expo 2020 Dubai, length of stay trends highlight, customers are looking at longer stay compared to short trips in the past. Over 57% of respondents said they would visit the Expo again along with an increased willingness to spend.
He added, with significant interest for a 4 - 7 nights stay, we have curated attractive 5 and 6 nights Expo itineraries with Single Day/ Multi Day Tickets included along with a Guided Tour of Expo on some itineraries. Our offers also include experiences like Sundowner Yacht Cruise, Ain Dubai, Pink Limousine Rides, Dubai Museum, Bridge & Heritage tour of the QE II amongst others and Luxury experiences like, hi-tea at the Burj Khalifa, desert camping and a VIP Desert Safari with a Private Butler are also part of our offers.
To reassure customers, our products are inbuilt with TravShield - comprehensive Safety Commitment & Assured Safe Travel Program in association with Apollo Clinics.”
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services and E-Business. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Kuoni Hong Kong, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, TC Forex, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, TC Visa, Travel Circle International Limited, Ithaka, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Private Safaris East & South Africa.
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents, a team of over 8388 and a combined revenue in excess of Rs. 6948.3 Cr. (over $ 0.93 Bn.) for the financial year ended March 31, 2020.
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency – India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Report (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution – India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller – Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has reaffirmed the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
Mumbai, September 8, 2021
Thomas Cook India & SOTC announce the 7th edition of
The Grand Indian Holiday Sale & Super Holiday Sale
Strategically timed to accelerate demand for India’s Festive Season opportunity
Range of great offers and inclusions
• Buy one, Get One – Free Companion holiday
• Extensive portfolio of Expo 2020 Dubai products with discounts up to Rs. 15,000.00
• 6-day Dubai Crazy Deal with Expo starting at Rs.46,290.00 and more
• Add-on Expo options with every Dubai holiday (Flight inclusive; Land products, etc.)
• Europe Flight Inclusive Group Holidays with discounts up to Rs. 60,000.00
• India Extravaganza Holidays with Free Taj voucher worth Rs.10,000.00
• Honeymoon Specials; Adventure & Camping; Festive Specials
Indians have been longing for a holiday and with reopening of destinations and easing of restrictions, the upcoming Festive Season (India’s second largest vacation period) presents a significant opportunity. With a clear intent to accelerate demand and catalyse bookings, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., India’s leading integrated travel and travel-related financial services company and its Group Company SOTC, have launched the 7th edition of The Grand Indian Holiday Sale and Super Holiday Sale with an array of unbeatable deals, discounts and spot offers. The Grand Indian Holiday Sale & Super Holiday Sale extends from September 8-18, 2021 and is available across the companies’ omnichannel network - websites www.thomascook.in & www.sotc.in, over 250 retail outlets, virtual holiday stores and apps.
Great Holiday & Super Holiday Sale Offers:
Buy one, Get one – Free Companion Holiday:
Dubai, Egypt, Switzerland, Spain, Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal & Andaman
Flight Inclusive Group Holidays starting at Rs. 135,900 with discounts up to Rs. 60,000.00
Russia, Europe (France, Switzerland & Germany) & Turkey
Maldives Holidays starting at Rs. 49,999.00
Maldives with flights; Nakai Dhiggri Maldives (4-star); Sheraton Maldives (5-star) and more
Flight Inclusive Dubai Holidays starting at Rs. 46,290 with discounts up to Rs. 15,000.00
Dubai crazy deal with EXPO 2020; Dubai fully loaded; Dubai Getaway and more
Honeymoon Specials starting at Rs. 38,990.00
Himachal, Switzerland, France, Maldives, Austria, North East, Russia, Turkey
Adventure & Experiences starting at Rs. 24,990.00
Bike Trips starting at Rs. 24,990.00 & Russian Lapland starting at Rs. 189,900.00 (flight inclusive)
Festive Specials (Flight Inclusive) starting at Rs. 29,990.00
Kashmir, Andamans, Himachal, Egypt, Ladakh, Uttarakhand
India Extravaganza Holidays starting at Rs. 48,990.00 with free Taj Vouchers worth Rs. 10,000.00
Andaman, Himachal, Rajasthan & Ladakh
The Grand India Holiday Sale & Super Holiday Sale is additionally loaded with Thomas Cook and SOTC’s TravShield - Travel Safety Commitment. It encompasses meticulous safety protocols in association with Apollo Clinics:
• Vaccinated Travel Advisors & Contactless Bookings
• Free Re-scheduling & Cancellation
• Covid Insurance Cover with 24/7 Doctor on Call
• Vaccinated / Covid negative fellow travellers
• Covid negative / Vaccinated Drivers, Hotel Staff
• Sanitized Rooms & Vehicles
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. said, “The Grand India Holiday Sale is a property that has worked very well for us and I am delighted to announce this the 7th edition! We have timed the launch perfectly – coinciding with the booking window for the upcoming festival holiday season. With pent up travel demand, positive announcements on lifting of restrictions and new destinations being reopened, customers are raring to travel. Our Grand India Holiday Sale offers unbeatable offers and discounts – intended to inspire customers to avail of special deals while choosing their long awaited holiday - across an array of destinations like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Switzerland, Russia, France, Turkey, Egypt, Andamans, Himachal, Kashmir, Ladakh and more.”
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “We have been observing strong travel desire from Indians and after 18 long months, we invite customers to book their favourite destination in India or internationally. Our SOTC Super Holiday Sale includes very special offers, discounts, add-ons, and the very attractive Buy one, get one – Companion free offer and our three-pronged Travel Safety Commitment – TravShield.”
For details on Bike Trips: click here:
Thomas Cook
SOTC
*T&C apply
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services and E-Business. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Kuoni Hong Kong, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, TC Forex, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, TC Visa, Travel Circle International Limited, Ithaka, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Private Safaris East & South Africa.
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents, a team of over 8388 and a combined revenue in excess of Rs. 6948.3 Cr. (over $ 0.93 Bn.) for the financial year ended March 31, 2020.
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency – India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Report (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution – India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller – Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has reaffirmed the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
Mumbai, September 7, 2021
Thomas Cook India and SOTC, introduce thrilling ‘Bike Trips’
To inspire bikers and adventure enthusiasts with an off-beat opportunity -
away from crowds
• Option to bring your own bike or rent bikes
• Range of price points - Affordable to Premium
• Accompanying Support & Technical Staff
• Experienced Guide
• Safety Equipment
• Breakfast & Dinner included
The Covid-era has given rise to a significant travel trend to explore offbeat experiences, away from crowds. With growing interest for such non-standard holidays, across millennials, young professionals and corporate head honchos, Thomas Cook India and its Group Company SOTC, have introduced Bike Trips. The exciting 5-12 nights trips traverse rugged yet scenic terrains of Manali, Leh, Srinagar, Siliguri, Gangtok, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Udaipur, Bengaluru, Madikeri, Ooty, Sethumadai, Kodaikanal, Rameshwaram, Yercaud etc. with pricing starting from Rs.24,990.00 per person.
Bike Trips provide a sense of freedom, thrill, community and an exhilarating opportunity of biking through the highest mountain range in the world, wandering through picturesque locales, exploring quaint villages along with mesmerising views and rustic locales. Customers can choose from an array of options.
Option 1 – Millennial Special: Manali, Leh & Srinagar
• Accompanied support & technical staff and Experienced guide throughout the trip
• Essential safety equipment
• Royal Enfield 500CC motorcycle provided at the arrival airport
• 10-12 nights trip starting from Rs.37,999.00 per person including breakfast & dinner
• Pit-stops and attraction visits: Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal, Turtuk, Pangong, Thiksey Monastery and Shey Palace, Magnetic Hill, Pathar Sahib Gurudwara, Hall of Fame museum, Shanti Stupa & Lamayuru - one of the oldest Monastery of Ladakh
• Experiences: Night camps & camel safari at sand dunes between Diskit & Hundur Village
Option 2 – Motorcycle Adventure to the Land of High Passes: Leh
(Bring your own bike - Royal Enfield Himalayan & other premium bikes)
Specially curated 8 nights trail of ‘The Land of High Passes’ starting from Rs.48,990.00 per person including breakfast & dinner
• Accompanied support & technical staff including a luggage van; Experienced guide throughout the trip
• Superior hotels
• Pit-stops and attraction visits: Pathar Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Alichi Monastery, Kargil War memorial, Pangong Tso, Shanti Stupa, Nubra Valley, Diskit Gumpa & Sumur Monastery
Option 3 – Bike Trip to Rajasthan:
7 nights trip across Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Udaipur & Kumbhalgarh starting from Rs.33,490 including breakfast & dinner
• Accompanied special back-up vehicle with technical staff; Experienced guide throughout the trip
• Essential safety equipment
• 350CC bike
• Pit-stops & attraction visits: Bullet Baba (Banna), 1971 Indo-Pak battle field Longewala, Kumbhalgarh fort, etc.
• Experiences: Rajasthani lunch in a heritage haveli, food walk, camping in Sam sand dunes camel safari & desert safari
Option 4 – Bike Trip to Sikkim:
7 nights trip across Siliguri, Gangtok, Lachen, Lachung & Zuluk starting from Rs.36,999.00 including breakfast & dinner
• Accompanied special back-up vehicle with technical staff; Experienced guide throughout the trip
• Essential safety equipment
• 350CC bike
• Pit-stops & attraction visits: Kanchendzonga, Gurudongmar LakeZero Point, Silk Route, Thambi view, & Nathula pass
Option 5 – Bike Trip to South India
12 nights trip across Bengaluru, Madikeri, Ooty, Sethumadai , Kodaikanal, Rameshwaram,Yercaud starting from approx. Rs.60,000.00 including breakfast & dinner
• Accompanied special back-up vehicle with technical staff; Experienced guide throughout the trip
• Essential safety equipment
• Rent a Himalayan BS 6, KTM Adventure 390, Ducati Scrambler, Harley Davidson 48 or Triumph Street*
• Pit-stops & attraction visits: Kolli Hills, coffee estates at Madikeri, Coaker’s Walk, Excursion to Dhanushkodi, etc.
‘Bike Trips’ include Thomas Cook and SOTC’s TravShield - Travel Safety Commitment encompassing safety protocols in association with Apollo Clinics:
• Vaccinated Travel Advisors & Contactless Bookings
• Free Re-scheduling & Cancellation
• Covid Insurance Cover with 24/7 Doctor on Call
• Vaccinated / Covid negative fellow travellers
• Covid negative / Vaccinated Drivers, Hotel Staff
• Sanitized Rooms & Vehicles
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. said, “This new age of travel has ushered keen interest in exploring the unexplored – with corporates, millennials and group of friends looking for the perfect non-standard getaway. Riding brings with it a sense of freedom while traversing across rugged Indian terrains. Our Bike Trips have hence been introduced with extensive trails including Leh-Ladakh and surrounding mountain ranges, Srinagar, Manali, Rajasthan and Sikkim to provide the quintessential playground for adventure seekers.”
He added, “Bike Trips comes with our unique TravShield – Travel Safety Commitment to build confidence and reassure our customers. Special care is also taken via accompanying back-up vehicle with technical staff; also an experienced guide throughout the trip.”
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “Customers are keen to explore unique and adventurous experiences away from crowds. Bike Trips provides bikers an option to bring their own bike and ride with expert guidance across spectacular locales, while non-bike owners can opt for a 350CC or 500CC bike, right from the arrival airport. Biking trips create a sense of community and belonging as customers explore scenic terrains of Leh-Ladakh, Srinagar, Manali, North East & Rajasthan - providing the perfect opportunity to bond, be it with friends, colleagues or as a couple. We recently had a father-daughter duo that rode together and experienced an unconventional holiday.”
For details on Bike Trips: click here:
Thomas Cook
SOTC
*T&C apply
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services and E-Business. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Kuoni Hong Kong, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, TC Forex, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, TC Visa, Travel Circle International Limited, Ithaka, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Private Safaris East & South Africa.
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents, a team of over 8388 and a combined revenue in excess of Rs. 6948.3 Cr. (over $ 0.93 Bn.) for the financial year ended March 31, 2020.
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency – India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Report (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution – India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller – Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has reaffirmed the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
Mumbai, August, 31, 2021
With UAE’s acceptance of travellers fully vaccinated with WHO-approved vaccines,
Thomas Cook & SOTC announce an exciting portfolio of Dubai Holidays
Unbeatable Offers including Dubai Book One Get One - Companion Free
5 days at just Rs. 21,700.00
• Expo 2020 Dubai Specials:
o Add-On Expo Dubai 2020 passes for every Dubai Holiday
o 6 Days with Expo 2020 Dubai starting at just Rs. 27,900.00
• Crazy Deals and more
On the heels of the UAE announcement opening up tourist visas to all travellers fully vaccinated with WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccines, Thomas Cook India, India’s leading integrated travel services company, and its Group Company, SOTC Travel, have launched a range of exciting Dubai holidays at attractive price points. Exclusive offers include an unbeatable Book One Get One – Companion Free 5-day holiday at just Rs. 21,700.00, an air-inclusive Crazy Deal Dubai of 6 days starting at Rs. 27,900.00 and a slew of Expo 2020 Dubai holidays and add-on passes for every Dubai product.
Dubai features strongly as a favourite destination - across India’s outbound segments of Leisure, B-Leisure and corporate MICE. Thomas Cook & SOTC’s Third Holiday Readiness Report (June 2021) reiterates the significant Dubai opportunity with over 74% respondents indicating keen interest in a Dubai holiday – as soon as restrictions are lifted. The allure of Expo Dubai 2020 serves as a powerful demand driver as a once-in-a lifetime opportunity - with its series of events, attractions, innovations and cutting edge technology, and over 190 participating countries. With a focus on accelerating demand for Dubai for the upcoming festive holiday season, equally weekend/ extended weekend breaks and celebration of special occasions, Thomas Cook and SOTC have designed an extensive range of Dubai holidays with unbeatable prices and deals.
With health-safety being a key consideration for 70% respondents of its survey, Thomas Cook & SOTC’s TravShield - Travel Safety Commitment forms a valuable inclusion in Dubai holiday product. It encompasses meticulous safety protocols in association with Apollo Clinics:
• Vaccinated Travel Advisors & Contactless Bookings
• Free Re-scheduling & Cancellation
• Covid Insurance Cover with 24/7 Doctor on Call
• Vaccinated / Covid negative fellow travellers
• Covid negative / Vaccinated Drivers, Hotel Staff
• Sanitized Rooms & Vehicles
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. said, “Dubai’s close proximity and easy access of a short haul flight, coupled with the allure of unique Expo 2020 Dubai and the exciting World Cup T20 matches, makes it a much sought after holiday destination this year. And the positive announcement on the acceptance of fully vaccinated travellers couldn’t have come at a better time! To leverage this to the maximum, we have launched a slew of products at unbelievable pricing, with very attractive offers, including our Buy One Get One – Companion Free.”
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “Dubai is undeniably a favourite with Indian travellers and to many it is a home-away-from home! The positive announcement on fully vaccinated travellers gives us a great opportunity. Our intent is clear – we want to leverage every holiday opportunity, be it short breaks, extended stays, honeymoons/special occasions or B-Leisure. Our so, our Dubai products come loaded with fabulous deals and discounts with our Expo 2020 Dubai Specials and add-on passes to catalyse bookings. To reassure customers, our products are inbuilt with TravShield - our travel safety commitment in partnership with Apollo Clinics.”
For details on the special Dubai offers, click here:
Thomas Cook
SOTC
*T&C apply
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services and E-Business. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Kuoni Hong Kong, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, TC Forex, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, TC Visa, Travel Circle International Limited, Ithaka, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Private Safaris East & South Africa.
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents, a team of over 8388 and a combined revenue in excess of Rs. 6948.3 Cr. (over $ 0.93 Bn.) for the financial year ended March 31, 2020.
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency – India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Report (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution – India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller – Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has reaffirmed the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
Mumbai, August, 26, 2021
Thomas Cook India and SOTC present
India Extravaganza Holidays & Grand India Holidays
Inviting Indians to discover the diversity of incredible India
In-depth exploration of locales with unique/exciting experiences
• Each tour is accompanied by an experienced Tour Manager
• All meals including special local dining experiences
• Unique experiences
• Taj Vouchers of Rs. 10,000 free with every booking
India is a carnival of colour, culture and cuisine! The country offers a myriad of exceptional locales - each with its own unique local flavours, heritage and communities. With limited reopening of international destinations but significant relaxation of domestic restrictions, there is a significant opportunity for an in-depth exploration of India. Thomas Cook India, India’s leading integrated travel services company, and its Group Company, SOTC Travel, have hence launched India Extravaganza Holidays & Grand India Holidays to welcome Indian’s on memorable journeys across incredible India.
Thomas Cook & SOTC’s Third Holiday Readiness Report (June 2021) reflects a strong pent-up domestic travel demand, with 54% respondents indicating keen interest for Indian destinations; 65% preferring longer duration holidays of over 5 days. And so, the India Extravaganza Holidays & Grand India Holidays have been designed with extensive itineraries of 9-12 days across an array of favourite destinations, including Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal, Rajasthan, Andamans, Kerala, and more.
Gastronomy forms a vibrant element of each product - with local cuisines from Kashmiri Wazwan, to the sumptuous Sadhya in Kerala, a fun BBQ in the hills, rooftop dining or lunch on board a backwaters cruise. Based on the growing appetite for non-standard options, the portfolio offers handpicked experiences such as the exciting ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu, a monastery visit with your own Lama guide, a coir-making session, a tea museum set amidst lush plantations; adrenalin infused ATV rides at the Nubra Valley, white water rafting/zorbing/paragliding and wildlife experiences at Periyar sanctuary/ Eravikulam National Park. Unique historical/heritage elements incorporated include, a visit to the Cellular Jail, Jallianwalla Bagh, the Taj Mahal, Leh Palace, Chand Baori stepwell, Jaisalmer Fort, Kumbhalgarh Fort, Attari border, etc.
The pandemic having brought with it a renewed spirituality, the India Extravaganza & Grand India Holidays offer a visit to the Mata Vaishnodevi Temple by helicopter, The Golden Temple, Gurdwara Pathar Sahib, Shankaracharya temple, Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple, Kali Mata temple, Dhramshala’s St. John in the Wilderness, St. Francis Church – the oldest European church in India and a Jewish synagogue.
With health and safety being a key consideration for 70% respondents, Thomas Cook and SOTC’s TravShield - Travel Safety Commitment is a significant inclusion in the Indian Extravaganza series. It encompasses meticulous safety protocols in association with Apollo Clinics:
• Vaccinated Travel Advisors & Contactless Bookings
• Free Re-scheduling & Cancellation
• Covid Insurance Cover with 24/7 Doctor on Call
• Vaccinated / Covid negative fellow travellers
• Covid negative / Vaccinated Drivers, Hotel Staff
• Sanitized Rooms & Vehicles
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. said, “We have been witnessing exponential growth in domestic travel demand over the last 16 months and with most countries yet to open their borders, Indians are displaying a strong desire to discover India. Our grand ‘India Extravaganza Holidays’ are thoughtfully designed allowing Indians to explore the delightful diversity of India – her exceptional culture, cuisine and warm hospitality. The spotlight is on experiencing local hidden gems and also indulging in exciting/fun experiences our country has to offer.”
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “The pandemic has created strong pent-up travel desire that has been getting stronger with the upcoming festival season. And so, our Grand India Holidays, offer our customers a wonderful opportunity to explore India along with extended family and friends - with longer vacations of 9-12 days at handpicked hotels, exclusive culture and cuisine elements. For our young professionals/millennials, we have added thrilling outdoor-adventure activities and unique experiences. To boost customer confidence, our Grand India Holidays include our 360 degree safety program – TravShield - a travel safety commitment in partnership with Apollo Clinics.”
For details on the India Extravaganza series: click here:
Thomas Cook
SOTC
*T&C apply
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services and E-Business. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Kuoni Hong Kong, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, TC Forex, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, TC Visa, Travel Circle International Limited, Ithaka, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Private Safaris East & South Africa.
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents, a team of over 8388 and a combined revenue in excess of Rs. 6948.3 Cr. (over $ 0.93 Bn.) for the financial year ended March 31, 2020.
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency – India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Report (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution – India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller – Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has reaffirmed the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
Mumbai, August, 18, 2021
With re-opening of European destinations
Thomas Cook India & SOTC launch a range of Europe Tours
Special offers to capitalise on strong travel demand
• Buy One Get One Free! Companion Offer
• Discounts up to Rs. 60,000 per family
• Range of destinations: Favourites like Switzerland, France, Germany; Northern Lights in Iceland & Russia; also Morocco, Turkey, Egypt, South Africa
• Experienced Tour Manager accompanying group tours
Europe continues to be a highly aspirational destination and a favourite for Indian consumers. With several Europe nations re-opening borders to fully vaccinated Indians, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s leading integrated travel services company, and its Group Company, SOTC Travel Ltd. have launched an exciting range of all-inclusive escorted tours to Europe. While Thomas Cook and SOTC’s Third Holiday Readiness Report 2021 reveals strong pent up travel demand (69% customers ready to travel in 2021; 46% preferring international destinations), Europe tops the leader board.
Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s escorted European tours offer a delightful diversity of locales and experiences: from history, culture and architecture to world-renowned cuisine, scenic vistas to great shopping options! Unique elements have been included in each tour, such as: the Golden Pass panoramic train journey from Montreux to Gstaad; an exciting husky sledge ride; a visit to a champagne cellar; a Bollywood movie trail in Switzerland; a sensory experience at France’s Fragonard Perfumery; a scenic cruise in the Lake Geneva Region; a special flamenco performance or a treat for every football fan – a visit to Camp Nou Stadium (Futbol Club Barcelona), Spain.
Great Offers available as a limited tome offer include:
Buy One Get One Free – Companion offer to Switzerland, Spain, Turkey, Russia, Egypt
Air Inclusive family holidays with discounts up to Rs. 60,000 to Morocco & South Africa
Northern Lights Specials to Russian and Iceland
Popular short haul international holidays to Dubai and Maldives are also available
To build confidence and reassure customers, Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s tours include the companies’ TravShield - Travel Safety Commitment, encompassing meticulous safety protocols in association with Apollo Clinics:
• Vaccinated Travel Advisors & Contactless Bookings
• Free Re-scheduling & Cancellation
• Covid Insurance Cover with 24/7 Doctor on Call
• Vaccinated / Covid negative fellow travellers
• Covid negative / Vaccinated Drivers, Hotel Staff
• Sanitized Rooms & Vehicles
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. said, “With the announcement of several European countries re-opening for fully vaccinated Indians, we have been quick with the design and launch of very special tours to favourite destinations like France, Germany and Switzerland; also a chance to witness the stunning Northern Lights in Iceland and Russia. With multiple public holidays and the upcoming festive season, our tours come with unbeatable offers and discounts, to give our customers the perfect opportunity to book their favourite European destinations and set off on a memorable holiday with family and friends.”
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “For over 16 months, Indians have been longing to visit Europe and so, with the re-opening of borders, we have launched a range of European tours with amazing deals, inviting our customers to holiday to their favourite destinations.
Our trends indicate high demand for family and multi-generational travel (62% customers prefer to travel with family/friends, 20% as couples/solo, and 18% in a vaccinated group) and our European tours include multiple options to explore new cultures, cuisines and experiences- together.
Our holistic three-pronged customer confidence-building program – TravShield: Travel Safety Commitment, in the form of Assured-Insured-Secured that covers every aspect of physical safety as well as mental and financial security to give the customer complete peace of mind.”
For details on the All-inclusive European Holidays, click here:
Thomas Cook
SOTC
*T&C apply
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services and E-Business. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Kuoni Hong Kong, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, TC Forex, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, TC Visa, Travel Circle International Limited, Ithaka, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Private Safaris East & South Africa.
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents, a team of over 8388 and a combined revenue in excess of Rs. 6948.3 Cr. (over $ 0.93 Bn.) for the financial year ended March 31, 2020.
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency – India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Report (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution – India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller – Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has reaffirmed the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
Mumbai, August, 11, 2021
With Festive Travel witnessing strong demand from the Gujarat Market,
Thomas Cook & SOTC launch Diwali Mahotsav – Holiday Sale
Special Offers:
• Buy 1 Get 1 Free – Companion Free!
• Gujarati Specials: Gujarati tour manager, all meals, Gujarati snacks, special Diwali celebration night
• Discount of upto Rs 50,000 per family on International Holidays
• Discount of upto Rs 20,000 per family on India Holidays
Consumer data/insights revealed in the Thomas Cook & SOTC Third Holiday Readiness Report 2021, highlight that Gujaratis are displaying strong travel appetite: 71% are keen to resume travel in 2021 and 51% are ready to travel during the upcoming Diwali festive season. To accelerate this demand, India’s leading integrated travel services company, Thomas Cook India, and its Group Company, SOTC Travel, have launched a unique Diwali Mahotsav with attractive pricing, unbeatable offers and special Gujarati Tours accompanied by a Gujarati tour manager with a unique Diwali celebration night on tour. The Diwali Mahotsav invites Gujaratis to celebrate the festival of lights with family and friends, while exploring a new destination and building close bonds.
Diwali Mahotsav – Special Offers
Buy 1 Get 1 Free – Companion free offer to Dubai, Maldives, Andamans, Himachal, Kashmir
Dubai Diwali Special – fully loaded tour includes a special Gujarati dinner
Up to Rs. 50,000.00 off per family on International tours to Egypt, Switzerland, Swiss & Paris
Up to Rs. 20,000.00 off per family on India holidays to Andamans, Himachal, Kashmir
Gujarati Special - All-Inclusive Tour
• All meals (including Gujarati Snacks)
• Special Diwali Celebration Night
• Gujarati speaking tour manager
• Ex-Ahmedabad departures*
A wide range of destinations on offer include, Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal, Andamans, Goa, and Kerala (Domestic) and Dubai, Egypt, Maldives, Switzerland, Europe (France, Germany, Switzerland).
With 65% of Gujarati consumers reiterating their strong focus on Health & Safety, Thomas Cook and SOTC’s TravShield - Travel Safety Commitment is of significant value. It encompasses meticulous safety protocols in association with Apollo Clinics:
• Vaccinated Travel Advisors & Contactless Bookings
• Free Re-scheduling & Cancellation
• Covid Insurance Cover with 24/7 Doctor on Call
• Vaccinated / Covid negative fellow travellers
• Covid negative / Vaccinated Drivers, Hotel Staff
• Sanitized Rooms & Vehicles
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. said, “Diwali brings with it very special festive joy and cheer. With our research indicating that Gujaratis are looking forward to travel and celebrate with family and friends, we have designed special India and international holidays with attractive offers like Buy One Get One and special family discounts. To make it extra special, our Gujarati Tours include a Gujarati speaking tour manager, a special Diwali night celebration and all meals included – a complete package to celebrate the festival with loved ones.”
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “Diwali this year falls on a Thursday, a perfect opportunity to indulge in an extended weekend holiday with family/friends, while exploring exciting destinations in India and overseas. With borders opening up and vaccinated travellers being welcomed, travel demand from our Gujarati customers has been seeing strong growth. Our ‘Diwali Mahotsav’ packed with special deals and discounts, intends to benefit our Gujarat based consumers and help them enjoy a perfect Diwali holiday.”
He added, “Our Diwali Mahotsav comes with our unique TravShield – Travel Safety Commitment to build confidence and reassure our customers.”
For details on the Diwali Mahotsav – Holiday Sale: click here:
Thomas Cook
SOTC
*T&C apply
Holiday Trend Report – Gujarat Market
Multi-Generational Family Travel sees a significant demand for the upcoming festive season
Gujarat is a key market for Thomas Cook India and SOTC and to delve deeper to understand customer travel behaviour, trends and pent up demand, post easing up of lockdown restrictions; Thomas Cook India and its group company SOTC surveyed customers from key Gujarati source markets including of Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Rajkot, Bhavnagar, Jamnagar as a part of the Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s Third Holiday Readiness Report (June 2021). Below are the findings:
• Strong Travel/Pent-up Demand: 71% respondents keen to resume travel in 2021; (20% ready to travel immediately post unlock and 51% during the festive season)
• Gujaratis prefer to travel with Multi-Generational Family/Friends Group: 70% respondents prefer to travel with family/friends; 20% in a vaccinated group; 10% as couples/solo
• High Priority to Health & Safety:
• 65% respondents indicated need for personal health and safety
• 84% for financial safety and prefer refundable or zero cancellation products
• 60% are willing to spend additional when it comes to health and safety
• Need for Human Touch/Expertise:
79% prefer an expert for guidance/reassurance of which:
• 29% opt to purchase through retails outlets
• 17% for home service
• 33% prefer a contactless experience of a virtual store/video chat
• 21% opted for bookings via website/app
Interest for both India (51%) and International (49%) destinations:
India: Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal, Andamans, Goa, Kerala, etc.
International: Dubai-Abu Dhabi, Maldives, Mauritius, Thailand, Bali, Switzerland, France, etc.
(Destinations selected basis announcements of unlock/easing of travel restrictions)
• Duration of Stay: 33% respondents chose holidays between 3-5 days; 53% for 6-12 days; 14% for a holiday of over 12 days
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services and E-Business. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Kuoni Hong Kong, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, TC Forex, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, TC Visa, Travel Circle International Limited, Ithaka, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Private Safaris East & South Africa.
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents, a team of over 8388 and a combined revenue in excess of Rs. 6948.3 Cr. (over $ 0.93 Bn.) for the financial year ended March 31, 2020.
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency – India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Report (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution – India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller – Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has reaffirmed the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
Mumbai, August 03, 2021
Thomas Cook and SOTC partner with IHCL to offer Travellers the 4D -
Dream, Drive, Discover, Delight Experience
• Featuring 20+ hotels pan India
• Special inclusions, value add-ons and a special Early Bird offer!
• Exclusive experiences: Eclectic cuisine, local experiences, spa & wellness
• Focus of Health & Safety:
Thomas Cook & SOTC’s TravShield Safe Travel Commitment encompassing their Assured Safety Protocols in association with Apollo Clinics & IHCL’s Tajness – A Commitment Restrengthened program offer assurance of highest standards of safety & hygiene
With Indians being confined within the safety of their homes yet again during the second wave of the pandemic, the appetite for travel has never been so strong. The desire to escape and connect and relax with loved ones in safe environs, further buoyed by the acceleration of the vaccination drive and easing of travel restrictions, is driving the rising demand for domestic travel in India. With most travellers gravitating towards trusted brands with well-defined safety and hygiene protocols, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group Company SOTC Travel Ltd., have partnered with Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), South Asia’s largest hospitality company, to offer travellers added value on IHCL’s 4D – Dream, Drive, Discover, Delight experience, which was launched across IHCL’s Taj, Vivanta, and SeleQtions hotels and amã Stays & Trails bungalows.
Thomas Cook & SOTC’s Third Holiday Readiness Report (June 2021) has revealed strong travel demand: 69% respondents keen to resume travel in 2021- with over 54% preferring domestic vacations. Personal safety continues to be a key consideration for 70% respondents; 19% cite uncertainty as a concern. With the significant need for reassurance, Thomas Cook & SOTC have hence partnered with Taj Hotels in a 2 pronged strategy: to build customer travel confidence and boost demand, with an array of exclusive experiences and attractive offers.
The 4D Travel Experience gives guests the perfect opportunity to drive with families and friends to discover, unwind, and be one with nature once again while embracing holistic wellness. Guests can choose from exclusive villas, bungalows, cottages, or suites across hotels, while creating unforgettable memories – be it heritage holidays, family getaways, wellness retreats or adventure activities. Be it the sunny beaches of Goa and Kovalam, royal beauty of Jaipur, Jodhpur and Udaipur, the lofty peaks of Shimla, Ooty and Rishikesh, or a walk through history at Agra, Hyderabad and Varanasi, there is something for everyone. For that intimate family vacation, heritage bungalows in pristine locations from the amã Stays & Trails portfolio are the perfect choice. The all-inclusive 4D Travel Experience, starting at Rs. 5499* offers exclusive value add-ons and myriad indulgences such as a specially curated 4-course dining experience by a specialty chef, and rejuvenating experiences ranging from spa and wellness to nature walks to explore the local flora and fauna and adventure activities such as kayaking.
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, “With increasing travel desire and customer preference of reputed brands to take care of their safety concerns, we are delighted to present our customers with the 4D Travel Experience in association with Taj, As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents, a team of over 8388 and a combined revenue in excess of Rs. 6948.3 Cr. (over $ 0.93 Bn.) for the financial year ended March 31, 2020.
Mr. Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “We are delighted to associate with Taj Hotels, renowned worldwide for their extraordinary commitment towards providing luxury hospitality and service. Our partnership will immensely benefit our customers with special offers across a range of exceptional experiences while enjoying a best in class stay.”
He added, “Domestic tourism is a key opportunity, and our customers now have a delightful range to choose from be it for a weekend getaway, workation, staycation or family bonding while celebrating special occasions or the upcoming festive season.”
Mr. Rohit Khosla, Executive Vice President – Operations, North & West India, IHCL, said, “Our partnership with Thomas Cook India & SOTC will bring much value to our consumers. The 4D Travel Experience across our Taj, Vivanta, and SeleQtions hotels and amã Stays & Trails bungalows will create an enhanced holiday experience for our guests while offering safety in travel and stay. From tech-enabled contactless services to stringent protocols of hygiene and sanitation, we stand prepared to welcome guests to experience the hallmark Tajness with a commitment restrengthened.”
Click here for details on Thomas Cook India’s 4D Travel Experiences
Click here for details on SOTC’s 4D Travel Experiences
*Per person on twin sharing basis
About The Indian Hotels Company Limited
The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries bring together a group of brands and businesses that offer a fusion of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service. IHCL has a portfolio of 221 hotels including 55 under development globally across 4 continents, 12 countries and in over 100 locations. These include Taj – the iconic brand for the most discerning travelers and the Strongest Hotel Brand in the World and India’s Strongest Hospitality Brand as per Brand Finance, SeleQtions, a named collection of hotels, Vivanta, sophisticated upscale hotels and Ginger, which is revolutionizing the lean luxe segment.
Incorporated by the founder of the Tata Group, Jamsetji Tata, the Company opened its first hotel - The Taj Mahal Palace, in Bombay in 1903. IHCL has a portfolio of 221 hotels including 55 under development globally across 4 continents, 12 countries and in over 100 locations. The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) is South Asia’s largest hospitality company by market capitalization. It is primarily listed on the BSE and NSE.
Please visit: www.ihcltata.com; www.tajhotels.com; www.seleqtionshotels.com; www.vivantahotels.com; www.gingerhotels.com
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services and E-Business. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Kuoni Hong Kong, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, TC Forex, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, TC Visa, Travel Circle International Limited, Ithaka, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Private Safaris East & South Africa.
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents, a team of over 8388 and a combined revenue in excess of Rs. 6948.3 Cr. (over $ 0.93 Bn.) for the financial year ended March 31, 2020.
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency – India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Reprt (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution – India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller – Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has reaffirmed the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited - ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
Mumbai, July 28, 2021
Thomas Cook & SOTC launch India Holiday Festival
Wide range and attractive discounts to accelerate Domestic Tourism demand
• Upto 50% off on India Holidays
• Wide Range: Family Getaways, Honeymoon Specials, Adventure, Staycations & Villas, Luxury Vacations…
• Validity: July 28 - August 6, 2021
With increasing travel desire and limited reopening of international borders, India presents a clear opportunity for holiday hungry Indians. To showcase the diversity of domestic locales and experiences, India’s leading integrated travel services company, Thomas Cook India, and its Group Company, SOTC Travel, have launched the India Holiday Festival packed with special offers and discounts up to 50%. The India Holiday Festival extends from July 28 - August 6, 2021, with bookings open across the companies’ omni-channel network of retail outlets, websites, virtual holiday stores and apps.
Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s Third Holiday Readiness Report (June 2021) reveals that over 69% of Indians are keen to resume travel in 2021 - with a sizeable 52% preferring domestic holidays. Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s India Holiday Festival has hence been conceptualised to accelerate domestic tourism demand/conversions with an extensive product range and attractive discounts.
Holiday Range:
• Family Holidays (50% off)
o Goa, Andamans, Himachal, Kashmir, Ladakh
• Honeymoon Specials (Upto 20% off)
o Kashmir, Himachal, Rajasthan, Kerala, North East
• Adventure – Biking, Camping & Wildlife (Up to 10% off)
o Biking: Manali-Leh-Srinagar
o Junga Camp Himachal
o Sitlakhet, Uttarakhand
o Yercaud, Tamil Nadu
o Teerthan, Himachal
• Staycations & Villas (Up to 10% off)
o Shimla, Coorg, Goa, Allepey, Alibaug and more
• Luxury Vacations (Up to 20% off)
o Kerala, Rajasthan, Kashmir, North Eastern Triangle, Kanha & Bandhavgarh Wildlife Tour, Mysore-Coorg-Ooty, East Coast, Himachal
o Premier Hotels: Oberoi, Taj, Manuallaya, Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters & Beyond, Ajit Bhawan Palace, Rah Bagh, Mayfair, Kanha Jungle Lodge, Sheraton Grand, Residency Towers, etc.
To ensure personal/physical, financial and mental safety and build consumer confidence in travel, Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s comprehensive TravShield - Travel Safety Commitment encompasses meticulous safety protocols in association with Apollo Clinics: Vaccinated Travel Advisors & Contactless Bookings; Free Re-scheduling & Cancellation; Covid Insurance Cover with 24/7 Doctor On Call; Vaccinated / Covid negative fellow travellers; Covid negative/ Vaccinated Drivers, Hotel Staff; Sanitised Rooms & Vehicles
Mr. Rajeev Kale President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “India has such an incredible range of exciting locales and experiences waiting to be explored. And so we’ve created our unique India Holiday Festival as a special celebration - welcoming Indians to discover their own country. To sweeten the deal, we have great offers available for our customers - with up to 50% off on India holidays booked between July 28 - August 6, 2021.”
Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “India is a traveller’s paradise! Our India Holiday Festival has been created with an array of options, from outdoor-adventure, wildlife, spa-wellness, to staycations, with strong appeal across segments, be it families, millennials, groups of friends, honeymooners, etc. We invite Indians to avail of the unbeatable discounts on offer and book a truly memorable India holiday.”
“Our holidays come with our unique TravShield Travel Safety Commitment - with comprehensive safety protocols in partnership with Apollo Clinics to ensure you travel safe with us,” he added.
For details on the India Holiday Festival offers, click here:
Thomas Cook
SOTC
*T&C apply
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services and E-Business. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Kuoni Hong Kong, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, TC Forex, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, TC Visa, Travel Circle International Limited, Ithaka, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Private Safaris East & South Africa.
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents, a team of over 8388 and a combined revenue in excess of Rs. 6948.3 Cr. (over $ 0.93 Bn.) for the financial year ended March 31, 2020.
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency – India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Reprt (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution – India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller – Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has revised the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited to ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
SOTC Travel Limited: Neha Dcunha | 9892663010 | neha.dcunha@sotc.in
Mumbai, July 20, 2021
Thomas Cook & SOTC launch unbeatable ‘Buy One Get One Free’
Durga Pujo special Holiday offers - To inspire travel restart in West Bengal
Special Offers!
• Buy One Get One Free - Companion offer on International Holidays*
• A Free Staycation: on Domestic Holidays & Durga Pujo air-inclusive international tours*
• Pujo Specials: Shundor Switzerland; Jhalakmoy Russia; Egypt
Bengali Tour Manager, select Bengali cuisine on tour, guaranteed departures*
Durga Pujo is a very special time for Bengalis. This upcoming Pujo season is witnessing significant pent up travel demand with missed holidays due to successive lockdowns, coupled with the positivity of accelerated vaccine drives and easing travel restrictions. To tap into the viable West Bengal market, India’s leading integrated travel services company, Thomas Cook India, and its Group Company, SOTC Travel, have launched a special Durga Pujo holiday range. Exclusive offers like Book One Get One Free and Staycations Free have been included to help Bengalis celebrate the festive season with family and loved ones and take a well-deserved break - to rest, rejuvenate and discover exciting new destinations.
Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s Third Holiday Readiness Report (June 2021) reveals that over 69% of Indians are keen to resume travel in 2021. The data for West Bengal however highlights an even stronger travel desire: over 74% respondents are eager to travel this year, and of this, over 79% chose the festive Pujo season. With 52% opting for domestic and 48% for international holidays, 66% respondents from West Bengal prefer to travel with family/friends. In an endeavour to leverage this significant travel appetite, Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s Pujo specials are aimed at converting latent demand into bookings.
Special Benefits:
• Free Staycations with partners like Novotel, Sterling Resorts and more, on:
o Domestic holidays to Kashmir, Himachal, Uttarakhand, Ladakh, Kerala, Andamans
o Durga Pujo air-inclusive tours to Switzerland, Russia, Egypt
• Book One Get One Free (Companion holidays free) on international holidays to Dubai & Maldives
• Holiday Now and Pay After Return - at no extra cost
Details & Inclusions:
Book any Domestic Holiday & get a Staycation Free!
With Airfare: Kashmir / Himachal 7 Days; Uttarakhand 6 Days
Includes: Airfare, accommodation with breakfast & dinner, select sightseeing tours & transfers
Unique experiences included: a romantic Shikara Ride on Dal Lake; lunch at an apple orchard in Manali; tour of Bhimtal, Naukuchiyatal & Sattal
Without Airfare: Kerala 6 Days; Ladakh 7 Days; Andamans 6 Days
Includes: Accommodation with breakfast & dinner, select sightseeing tours & transfers
Exciting experiences included: Kalari Payattu martial art show; adrenalin infused ATV ride at Nubra Sand Dunes; Sea Kart Ride at Port Blair
‘Book a Durga Pujo air-inclusive Holiday & get a Staycation Free!
Shundor Switzerland 6 Days; Jhalakmoy Russia 6 Days; Egypt 9 Days
Pujo Specials: Bengali Tour Manager, select Bengali cuisine* on tour, guaranteed departures
Includes: Airfare, visa, travel insurance, accommodation with breakfast & dinner, sightseeing, transfers
FREE: Quality Staycations at Novotel (Accor Group), Sterling Holidays & others on every domestic booking – stays to be completed by September 30, 2021
Buy One Get One Free - Get your Companion’s Holiday Free!
Dubai 5 Days; Maldives 5 Days
Includes: accommodation with breakfast, select sightseeing & transfers
Special value add-ons included: Upgrade stay options on 4 & 5 star hotels; Visit Dubai Frame (Dubai)
All Meals Included plus Your Child Stays Free (Maldives)
Option: Avail of the unbeatable Holiday First, Pay After You Return scheme
To ensure personal/physical, financial and mental safety and build consumer confidence in travel, Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s comprehensive TravShield - Travel Safety Commitment encompasses meticulous safety protocols in association with Apollo Clinics:
• Vaccinated Travel Advisors & Contactless Bookings
• Free Re-scheduling & Cancellation
• Covid Insurance Cover with 24/7 Doctor On Call
• Vaccinated / Covid negative fellow travellers
• Covid negative/ Vaccinated Drivers, Hotel Staff
• Sanitised Rooms & Vehicles
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. said, “The Durga Pujo festival has always brought on joy/positivity and is a key travel season for Bengalis. This year, with both pent up demand and easing of travel restrictions, we are seeing increasing travel desire for the Pujo season. And so, we have designed special domestic and international holidays at attractive price points and with unbeatable offers like Buy One Get One Free and Staycations Free. We have added special touches like a Bengali Tour Manager, Bengali cuisine* and guaranteed departures on our Pujo special air-inclusive tours. This is our gift to enable Bengalis celebrate their favourite festival with their loved ones – and indulge in their amazing passion for travel!”
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “The festival of Durga Pujo offers the perfect holiday opportunity. We have observed a significant growth in demand amongst diverse travellers, especially families, millennials and couples seeking that much-needed break to explore domestic and international destinations around this festive season.”
“Our Pujo holidays come with our unique TravShield Travel Safety Commitment - with comprehensive safety protocols in partnership with Apollo Clinics to ensure you travel safe with us,” he added.
For details on the special Durga Pujo Holidays, Buy Now Get One Free & Staycations offers, click here:
Thomas Cook
SOTC
*T&C apply
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services and E-Business. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Kuoni Hong Kong, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, TC Forex, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, TC Visa, Travel Circle International Limited, Ithaka, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Private Safaris East & South Africa.
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents, a team of over 8388 and a combined revenue in excess of Rs. 6948.3 Cr. (over $ 0.93 Bn.) for the financial year ended March 31, 2020.
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency – India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Reprt (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution – India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller – Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has revised the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited to ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business.
SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
SOTC Travel Limited: Neha Dcunha | 9892663010 | neha.dcunha@sotc.in
Mumbai, July 19, 2021
Thomas Cook & SOTC appointed as Authorised Ticket Resellers for Expo 2020 Dubai
India’s leading integrated travel services company, Thomas Cook India, and its Group Company, SOTC Travel Ltd., have been appointed as Authorised Ticket Resellers for Expo 2020 Dubai, to be held in Dubai from 1 October, 2021 to 31 March, 2022. The companies’ leadership positioning, extensive omnichannel distribution network, in addition to the diversity of their segments (across India’s leisure, business, b-leisure, MICE and B2B) will offer significant benefit in inspiring visitors to witness this once-in-a-lifetime global mega-event and ensure smooth and seamless end-to-end delivery.
With the theme and purpose of ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’, Expo 2020 will be the world’s most impactful global incubator for new ideas, catalysing an exchange of new perspectives and inspiring action to deliver real-life solutions to real-world challenges. Expo 2020 will provide a visually striking and emotionally inspiring 182 days, as more than 200 participants – including nations, multilateral organisations, businesses, and educational institutions, as well as millions of visitors – create the largest and most diverse World Expo ever.
To ensure Indian’s maximise on this unparalleled opportunity, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have designed a unique portfolio of ready-to-book products and customised experiences, specially curated to appeal to India’s leisure, business and MICE visitors. The 1-Day Tickets and Multi-Day Tickets incorporate unbeatable value with included attractions and shows as well as access to more than 200 pavilions.
‘Connecting Minds and Creating the Future’ through sustainability, mobility and opportunity brings visitors a first-hand insight into cutting-edge transportation, the future of communication (5G and mixed reality), sustainability (producing water from air, net-zero buildings that also generate electricity) and gastronomy with a difference (multisensory restaurants and more than 200 food-and-beverage outlets). Exclusive entertainment (all part of the entry ticket) top local and international artists, sound and light extravaganzas, with up to 60 events daily. With so much to see and experience, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have launched unique technology enabled solutions towards personalization – enabling travellers to create their own itinerary based on their personal preferences – to best optimize their Expo 2020 visits.
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. said, “We are delighted and honoured to be appointed an Authorised Ticket Reseller for Expo 2020 and have lined up an exciting range of unique products for every traveller - from India’s millennials, couples, families, students, business to MICE travellers. For industry associations, corporates/businesses, Expo 2020 is an ideal space for ideation/R&D/business and networking and our products have been tailor-made to cater to their specific needs too.”
Mr. Daniel D’souza President & Country Head, SOTC Travel said, “Expo 2020 is a vibrant platform, be it to learn, innovate or do business, and our unique product-service portfolio as an Authorised Ticket Reseller promises an extraordinary experience across all age groups and source markets from metros to regional India. Our company’s presence and reach countrywide will give consumers easy access to plan their perfect Expo trip/s with our experts - by visiting our retail stores or via our virtual holiday outlet. Expo 2020, stated to be the world’s greatest show awaits Indians and we look forward to creating a truly memorable experience for Indians.”
Ms. Sumathi Ramanathan, Vice President, Market Strategy and Sales, Expo 2020 Dubai, said: “Expo 2020 Dubai represents a global celebration of human ingenuity – one that promises an extraordinary experience for visitors of all ages, nationalities and interests – and I am specially delighted with our appointment of Thomas Cook India & SOTC as an Authorised Ticket Reseller to help us in our delivery for this highly viable market. Expo 2020 is ready to welcome the world, and with the support of Thomas Cook and SOTC, we invite Indians to join us and be part of the most diverse World Expo in history, as we build a better future for all.”
*T&C apply
About Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Set up in 1881, Thomas Cook (India) Limited. (TCIL) is the leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company in the country offering a broad spectrum of services that include Foreign Exchange, Corporate Travel, MICE, Leisure Travel, Value Added Services, Visa and Passport services and E-Business. It operates leading B2C and B2B brands including Thomas Cook, SOTC, TCI, SITA, Asian Trails, Allied T Pro, Australian Tours Management, Desert Adventures, Luxe Asia, Kuoni Hong Kong, Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, TC Forex, Distant Frontiers, TC Tours, TC Visa, Travel Circle International Limited, Ithaka, Digiphoto Entertainment Imaging (DEI), Private Safaris East & South Africa.
As one of the largest travel service provider networks headquartered in the Asia-Pacific region, The Thomas Cook India Group spans 25 countries across 5 continents, a team of over 8388 and a combined revenue in excess of Rs. 6948.3 Cr. (over $ 0.93 Bn.) for the financial year ended March 31, 2020.
TCIL has been felicitated with CNBC-TV18 & ICICI Lombard India Risk Management Award - Travel & Leisure Category 2021, The Best Travel Agency – India at TTG Travel Awards 2019, The Best Outbound Tour Operator at the Times Travel Awards 2018 & 2019 and Leading Company with Cutting Edge Travel Innovation at the Times Travel Awards 2018, Silver award for Asia's Best Integrated Reprt (First Time) category at the Asia Sustainability Reporting Awards 2019, Best Risk Management-Framework & Systems at the India Risk Management Awards 2019; Best Cash Management Solution – India at the Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, Supply Chain & Risk Management Awards 2018, Best Outbound Tour Operator at the SATTE Awards 2019, Excellence in Domestic Tour Operations at the SATTE Awards 2018, The French Ambassador’s Award for Exemplary Achievements in Visa Issuance – 2015 to 2019 and the Condé Nast Traveller – Readers’ Travel Awards from 2011 to 2019.
CRISIL has revised the rating on debt programmes and bank facilities of Thomas Cook (India) Limited to ‘CRISIL A+/Negative on the long-term bank facilities of TCIL and CRISIL A1 rating on the short-term bank facilities and short- term debt of the Company.
For more information, please visit www.thomascook.in
Fairbridge Capital (Mauritius) Limited, a subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited promotes TCIL by holding 65.60% of its paid-up capital and is responsible for the execution of acquisition and investment opportunities.
About Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited: Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited is a holding company which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in property and casualty insurance and reinsurance and investment management. Founded in 1985 by the present Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Prem Watsa, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Its common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol FFH and in U.S. dollars under the symbol FFH.U.
About Subsidiaries of Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is engaged in time share and resort business. SOTC Travel Limited, wholly owned subsidiary of TCIL is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel.
Travel Corporation (India) Limited. (TCI), a brand owned by TCIL through its wholly owned subsidiary company, is the leading Destination Management Company in India that offers tailor-made travel and related services to India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Thomas Cook India Group holds 51% stake in DEI Holdings Limited (DEI), one of the world’s leading imaging solutions and services providers.
For more information, visit:
Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited: http://www.sterlingholidays.com
SOTC Travel Limited: http://www.sotc.in
About SOTC Travel: SOTC Travel Limited (Formerly SOTC Travel Pvt. Ltd.) is a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings Group; held through its Indian listed subsidiary, Thomas Cook (India) Limited (TCIL). SOTC India is a leading travel and tourism company active across various travel segments including Leisure Travel, Incentive Travel and Business Travel and Foreign Exchange. SOTC was established in 1949. Since then, it has escorted lakhs of travellers across the globe for more than 70 years to various destinations around the world. A new age innovative holidaymaker, SOTC strives to make holidays a priority for every Indian. ‘We are for holidays’ and we want Indians to prioritize their holidays.
Media Enquiries:
Thomas Cook (India) Limited: Suzanne Pereira | +91 98202 97665 | suzanne.pereira@thomascook.in
SOTC Travel Limited: Bineeta Mehta | +91 99209 62470 | bineeta.mehta@sotc.in | Neha Dcunha | 9892663010 | neha.dcunha@sotc.in
Mumbai, July 7, 2021
Thomas Cook & SOTC take the lead to accelerate demand for Holidays
Book One Get One Free (Companion holidays free) offer for International Holidays
Free Staycations with partners like Novotel & Sterling Resorts for Domestic Holidays
Option to Holiday Now and Pay After Return - at no extra cost
Acceptance of India’s vaccine by several European states, reopening of borders and easing of travel restrictions is resulting in significant and growing travel desire. Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s Third Holiday Readiness Report (June 2021) reveals that over 69% of Indians are keen to resume travel in 2021 (54% opting for domestic; 46% preferring International holidays). With a focussed intent to leverage this strong pent up demand, Thomas Cook India along with its Group company SOTC Travel Ltd., have announced a two pronged scheme - Buy One Get One Free - Get your Companion’s Holiday Free on International* destinations and Book any Domestic Holiday & get a Staycation Free!
The attractive schemes include Indians’ favourite international destinations, including, Switzerland, Maldives, Dubai, Russia, Egypt, etc. and a wide array of domestic options like Kerala, Kashmir, Himachal, Uttarakhand, Ladakh, Andamans, etc. The offers are available across the company’s omnichannel touch points – aprox. 200 retail outlets (both owned and franchise outlets), toll free contact centre # 1800 2099 100, and portal www.thomascook.in
Highlights of the Special Offers:
Buy One Get One Free - Get your Companion’s Holiday Free on International* destinations:
Includes: Accommodation from 5-7 days, Breakfast, select Sightseeing & Transfers Special value add-ons included: Swiss Half Fare Card & Pilatus Mountain Excursion, All Meals Included Plus Your Child Stays Free (Maldives); 10% Discount on F&B & 15% Discount on Spa (Dubai); One Indian Dinner included in St. Petersburg & Moscow; Full Board Meal Plan at Sharm El Sheikh Resort (Egypt)
Book any Domestic Holiday & get a Staycation Free!
Includes: Accommodation with Breakfast & Dinner, Select Sightseeing tours & Transfers Exciting/unique experiences included: Kalari Payattu Martial Art Show; a adrenalin infused ATV Ride at Nubra Sand Dunes; Sea Kart Ride at Port Blair; a romantic Shikara Ride on Dal Lake; Lunch at an Apple Orchard in Manali; tour of Bhimtal, Naukuchiyatal & Sattal (Uttarakhand), etc. FREE: Quality Staycations at Novotel (Accor Group), Sterling Holidays & Others on evey domestic booking – stays to be completed by August 30, 2021
Option: Avail of the unbeatable Holiday First, Pay After You Return scheme
To ensure personal/physical, financial and mental safety and build consumer confidence in travel, Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s comprehensive TravShield - Travel Safety Commitment encompasses meticulous safety protocols in association with Apollo Clinics:
• Vaccinated Travel Advisors & Contactless Bookings
• Free Re-scheduling & Cancellation
• Covid Insurance Cover
• 24/7 Doctor On Call
• Vaccinated / Covid negative Fellow Travellers
• Covid negative/ Vaccinated Drivers, Hotel Staff
• Sanitised Rooms & Vehicles
Mr. Rajeev Kale President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “With positive announcements by domestic and international destinations, to maximise on the strong pent-up demand and drive transactions, we have designed an unbeatable dual offer of Buy One Get One Free & Staycations Free. To ensure customer delight, we’ve inbuilt unique experiences and attractive value add-ons that make holidaying with us a very attractive proposition. And with an unerring eye on safety, all our products are inbuilt with our TravShield safety commitment – covering every step of the customer journey- and encompasses our Assured meticulous safety protocols in association with Apollo Clinics.”
Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “Our customers are displaying strong travel desire - with over 69% keen to travel this year. And so, the launch of our Buy One Get One Free & Staycations Free is aimed at benefiting our customers with very attractive pricing and offers when they book both domestic and international holidays with us. With health and safety being a key consideration for 70% of our travellers, our meaningful TravShield commitment to safety incorporates our comprehensive safety protocols in partnership with Apollo Clinics.”
For details on the Buy Now Get One Free & Staycations offers, click here:
Thomas Cook India
SOTC
*T&C apply
Mumbai, June 24, 2021
Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel jointly release survey
Third Holiday Readiness Report (June 2021)
Reveals emerging consumer behaviours and trends for travel when restrictions ease
• Strong Travel Demand: 69% respondents keen to resume travel in 2021; 31% in 2022
• Interest for both Domestic (54%) and International (46%) destinations
• Personal Health & Safety continues to be a key consideration (70%); 19% cite uncertainty as a concern. 66% are willing to spend additional towards Health & Safety
• Financial Safety: 81% respondents reiterate need for refundable/zero cancellation products
• Need for Human Touch/ Expertise: 77% preferring an expert for guidance/reassurance (outlet/home visit/ virtual store/video chat); 23% opted for bookings via website/app
Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel surveyed over 4000 customers across India’s Tier 1 - 3 cities in a recent survey to identify emerging consumer behaviours and trends that will drive travel preferences in the COVID era. The survey covered consumers of India’s top 8 metros, mini metros like Pune and key Tier 2/3 markets of Jaipur, Indore, Tiruchirappalli, Madurai, Nagpur, Surat, Baroda, Bhubaneswar, Lucknow, Chandigarh, Mysore, Coimbatore, Visakhapatnam, Guwahati, Patna, etc. The companies have released key findings in their Third Holiday Readiness Report (June 2021).
The data analysis has revealed valuable insights on travel behavior and customer expectations:
• Strong Travel Desire/Intent: A significant 69% respondents indicated keen interest to travel in 2021 post ease in restrictions - with 18% ready to travel immediately post unlock and 51% within 3-6 months
• Financial Safety: 81% respondents reiterated their need for refundable/zero cancellation products
• Physical/Personal Safety: 70% respondents rank Health & Safety as a key consideration
o Re-sanitation of rooms: was selected by 52% respondents as a key requirement.
o Fully vaccinated hotel staff, drivers was a need highlighted by 48% and 34% respondents, respectively
• Willingness to Increase Spends basis Health & Safety: 66% respondents are willing to increase spends to ensure higher levels of health & safety on their holiday
• Demand for both Domestic (54%) and International (46%) destinations
o India: Kashmir, Leh-Ladakh, Himachal, Andamans, Goa, Kerala, etc.
o International: Dubai-Abu Dhabi, Maldives, Mauritius, Thailand, Europe, etc.
(Destinations selected basis announcements of unlock/easing of travel restrictions)
• Duration of Stay: 35% respondents chose holidays between 3-5 days; 52% for 6-12 days; 13% for a holiday of over 12 days
• Travel Companions: 62% respondents prefer to travel with family/friends; 20% as couples/solo;18% in a vaccinated group
• Need for Human Touch/ Expertise:
o 77% respondents continued to express strong preference for interaction with an expert for guidance/ reassurance - 27% opting to purchase holidays through retail outlets; 17% for home service; 33% preferred a contactless experience of a virtual store/video chat
o 23% opted for bookings via website/app
Rajeev Kale President & Country Head - Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “Indian consumers continue to display strong travel desire with a noteworthy 69% keen to travel in 2021. Equally important are consumer concerns on health-safety (70%), uncertainty (19%) and need for refundable/zero cancellation products (81%). To address this and boost customer confidence, we have launched TravShield – our commitment to personal safety, financial safety and mental safety. Personal Safety includes vaccinated travellers on tour, vaccinated hotel staff/drivers and interactions with vaccinated travel advisors; sanitized rooms, restaurants and vehicles. Financial Safety covers free cancellations and re-scheduling. To ensure mental safety, our products are inbuilt with Covid Insurance and to ensure peace of mind we have our 24x7 Doctor-on-Call service for any emergency during travel - in partnership with Apollo Clinics.”
He added, “To give customers an exclusive advantage, our Holiday First and Pay When you Return is a unique offer - allowing them to enjoy their holiday and pay later.”
Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “We are very encouraged with the strong pent up travel demand (69%) revealed via our survey and given that uncertainty is a key concern, our Holiday First and Pay When You Return is an unbeatable offer – with a minimal token deposit of Rs 5000 paid pre-holiday and the balance post-holiday. The offer is invaluable as SOTC pays for all the charges/fees till 15 days from return.
Our TravShield safety commitment is aimed at ensuring a stress-free and safe holiday experience across every stage of the customer journey and enhances our existing Assured Insured Secured Travel Program We truly understand customer concerns on account of health/safety (70%) and TravShield is intended to reassure and build confidence in travel when restrictions ease.”
To view the infographic, click below link: Infographics Thomas Cook India & SOTC Third Holiday Readiness Report survey June 23 2021
Mumbai, June 16, 2021
Thomas Cook India & SOTC Travel announce
TravShield & Holiday First and Pay When You Return
~ A 2 pronged customer commitment to Physical & Financial Safety ~
With the decline in the second COVID-19 wave and acceleration of vaccine drives, Indians are displaying increasing positive travel sentiment. However, concerns on health/hygiene and constant changes in protocols have resulted in understandable uncertainly. To provide guidance and build confidence that it is safe to travel again, Thomas Cook India & SOTC Travel Ltd. have announced a two-pronged strategy: TravShield and Holiday First and Pay When You Return to cover every aspect of physical and financial safety. TravShield, a comprehensive safe travel commitment is designed with meticulous health and safety protocols to safe guard customers across Holidays, MICE and Business Travel and encompasses and enhances the companies’ existing Assured Insured Secured Travel Program.
To better understand consumer behaviours and travel needs, Thomas Cook India and SOTC surveyed over 4000 customers in June 2021. The data analysis has revealed strong pent up demand/travel desire along with key pain points/needs while travelling in the COVID era:
• A significant 69% respondents indicated keen interest to travel in 2021 post ease in restrictions - with 18% ready to travel immediately post unlock and 51% within 3-6 months
• Approximately 81% respondents reiterated their need for refundable/zero cancellation products
• 52% selected complete re-sanitation of rooms as a key requirement
• Fully vaccinated hotel staff and drivers was a need highlighted by 48% and 34% respondents, respectively
To allay customer doubts and instill confidence, TravShield was hence conceptualised by Thomas Cook India and SOTC to cover every aspect of physical safety as well as mental and financial security. The comprehensive and meticulous health & safety Assured Program, in partnership with Apollo Clinics, is inbuilt into TravShield. Aimed at ensuring a stress-free and safe holiday experience across every stage of the customer journey, TravShield offers a wide range of customer benefits:
Connect Safely
• Contactless interactions during the sales and servicing stage, pre travel
• Sanitised branches with safety protocols
• Vaccinated Travel Advisors
• Contactless payment options
Book Safely
• Free Rescheduling & Cancellation
Care & Assistance
• COVID-19 Insurance Cover
• 24/7 Concierge and Emergency Contact Assistance
• 24/7 Doctor-On-Call in association with Apollo Clinics
Travel & Stay Safe
• Flights: Vaccinated/ COVID-19 Negative Crew, HEPA Air Filters, In - flight protective gear
• Local Transport: enhanced sanitising of vehicles, vaccinated/ COVID-19 Negative drivers
• Hotels: quality hotel partners, sanitised and safe rooms, vaccinated/ COVID-19 Negative staff
To provide much needed financial support, the companies have introduced a unique Holiday First and Pay When You Return scheme to provide customers the flexibility and benefits of paying only once they return from their holiday.
TravShield together with Holiday First and Pay When You Return incorporates the companies’ commitment to health and safety, simplifies the travel experience and offers significant savings, thus making travel safe, flexible, hassle free and easy on the wallet.
Mr. Madhavan Menon, Managing Director, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “At Thomas Cook and SOTC, we deeply value our customers safety and go to great lengths to ensure that our travel services meet global safety standards. In 2020, we launched the Thomas Cook & SOTC Assured Program in association with Apollo Clinics, which became the accepted standard for safe travel in India.
As travel reopens again, to give our customers across Holidays, Business Travel and MICE the confidence to travel safely, I am proud to present TravShield – a definitive Travel Safety Commitment from Thomas Cook & SOTC. TravShield encompasses and enhances our existing Assured Safe Travel Program, ensuring meticulous health and safety protocols at every stage of the customer journey. To benefit our customers and allay their fears, TravShield offers significant flexibility in rebooking/cancellations, guidance on travel protocols via our Safe Holiday Helpline; also our emergency Doctor On Call service while on tour.
To ease the financial burden of our customers, we have also launched our unique and meaningful Holiday First and Pay When You Return scheme. Our endeavor is to cover every aspect of physical and financial security to ensure our customers get complete peace of mind while holidaying with Thomas Cook India and SOTC.”
For more information, please visit: Thomas Cook Travshield; SOTC Travshield
Mumbai, March 24, 2021
Thomas Cook India & SOTC present the perfect opportunity to book a holiday in 2021
Launch exclusive offers in association with GoAir
• Full Holiday at Half the Price
• Buy 1 Get 1 Free - Companion Holiday Offer
• Get up to 20% off on Flights
With the accelerated vaccine roll out and the re-opening of several destinations, Indians having missed out on travel last year are eager to holiday again. To cater to this pent up demand, Thomas Cook India Limited, India’s leading integrated travel services company, and its Group Company, SOTC Travel Ltd., announced the launch of a range of exclusive offers in association with GoAir: Full Holiday at Half the Price, Companion Holidays Free, up to 20% off on Flights; also free cancellation* available. The offers are valid on bookings received till April 9, 2021, for travel before September 30, 2021.
Included is an exciting array of domestic as well as international destinations and covers accommodation, meals, sightseeing and transfers. The companies have handpicked India’s favourites such as North East, Goa, Kerala, Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Andaman, Uttarakhand and Ladakh. International destinations include a diverse selection, from Dubai, Maldives, Egypt, Russia to Turkey.
Special experiences have been incorporated into the products: a thrilling ATV ride at Nubra Valley, a picnic lunch at an apple orchard in Himachal, a shikara ride on Dal Lake, Sea Kart adventure in the Andamans, a fascinating martial art show - Kalaripayattu in Kerala, a complimentary family photo shoot in the North East, adrenalin infused dune-bashing/sand surfing in Dubai, adventure sports like snorkeling and kayaking in the Maldives, visit of the Great Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, papyrus fair, perfume factory/cotton shop in Egypt, a cruise on the mighty River Neva in Russia and a cable car trip to Pierre Loti Hill for spectacular views of the Golden Horn and Istanbul, etc.
To ensure health and safety of its customers, Thomas Cook India & SOTC have put together a holistic three pronged customer confidence-building program in the form of Assured-Insured-Secured that covers every aspect of physical safety as well as mental and financial security to give the customer complete peace of mind. The companies have launched several meaningful initiatives: The Assured Safe Travel Program and Doctor on Call 24x7 service in partnership with Apollo Clinics; India’s first Safe Holiday Helpline, a free service offering expert guidance & assistance for safe holiday planning, visa assistance, country specific updates, on-ground health and safety measures, health certification, etc. and seamless COVID-negative certification services via a tie up with ICMR accredited labs.
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Limited said, “Indians are actively seeking holidays and this growing demand is indeed a positive sign of revival. Hence, in an initiative to inspire, we have introduced very attractive offers - timed perfectly with this crucial booking window for the upcoming summer holiday season. Our exclusive deals in association with GoAir include Full Holiday at Half the Price and Buy 1 Get 1 Free Offer: Book your holiday and get your companion’s holiday free and up to 20% off on Flights.”
Click Thomas Cook India Offers for more details
Mr. Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “As vaccines are rolled out, Indian travellers are increasingly optimistic of being able to take a vacation this year. Our great offers of Full Holiday at Half the Price, Buy 1 Get 1 Free Offer: Book your holiday and get your companion’s holiday free and up to 20% off on Flights, encourages Indian travellers to book a dream vacation - within their budget!”
Click SOTC Offers for more details
*T&C apply
Mumbai, March 04, 2021
Thomas Cook India & SOTC partner with Air Asia & Sterling Holiday Resorts to leverage travel demand Launch Summer Holiday Sale with a range of exclusive offers
• Book a Summer Holiday & Get Flight Tickets Free*
• Full Holiday - Half Price to Dubai, Maldives & Seychelles
A combination of a missed holidays in 2020 coupled with positive sentiment around the vaccine roll-out has created a strong uptick in travel demand. In a bid to catalyze this potential for India’s upcoming summer season, Thomas Cook India, India’s leading integrated travel services company, and its Group Company, SOTC Travel Ltd., announced their Summer Holiday Sale, from March 4-15, 2021. The companies have partnered with Air Asia and Sterling Holiday Resorts to launch exclusive deals: Book Your Summer Holiday & Get Your Flight Tickets Free and Full Holidays at Half Price - to a range of favourite domestic and international destinations. Stays at Sterling Holiday Resorts come with the flexibility/choice of 28 resorts bookable up to 15 days prior departure, complimentary dinner and free accommodation for a child below 6 years. In addition, customers can avail of unique holiday options/experiences like private villas with a private chef and concierge services and exciting adventure/ nature options of camping, trekking, diving and biking.
To ensure health and safety of customers, Thomas Cook India & SOTC have put together a holistic three pronged customer confidence-building program in the form of Assured-Insured-Secured that covers every aspect of physical safety as well as mental and financial security to give the customer complete peace of mind. The companies have launched several meaningful initiatives: The Assured Safe Travel Program and Doctor on Call 24x7 service in partnership with Apollo Clinics; India’s first Safe Holiday Helpline, a free service offering expert guidance & assistance for safe holiday planning, visa assistance, country specific updates, on-ground health and safety measures, health certification, etc. and seamless COVID-negative certification services via a tie up with ICMR accredited labs.
Based on the improved positive sentiment as the vaccination drive rolls out across India, Thomas Cook India and SOTC’s Summer Holiday Sale has been perfectly timed to help travellers book their summer vacation by availing of the range of attractive benefits on offer.
Exciting deals that form part of Thomas Cook India and SOTC’s Summer Holiday Sale are:
Book your Summer Holiday & Get Your Flight Tickets Free: Holidays starting at Rs. 18 300.00* with free flight tickets (includes airfare ex-Mumbai, accommodation, meals, sightseeing, transfers). Customers can also fly from the nearest airport to their home at a nominal additional cost. A variety of destinations and delightful experiences are on offer: Sea Kart adventure in Andamans, a thrilling ATV Ride at Nubra Valley, picnic lunch at Corbett or at an apple orchard in Himachal, a Kalaripayattu show in Kerala, a shikara ride on Dal Lake, a complimentary family photo shoot in the North East, a visit to Kedarnath by helicopter…
Full Holiday - Half Price! includes airfare, accommodation, meals, sightseeing, transfers for tours to Maldives, Dubai, Seychelles
Customers are also presented with a range of exciting options such as:
• Private Stays: Private Villas with services of a chef & concierge
• Adventure: camping, trekking, diving & biking trips to Ladakh, Spiti, Andamans and many more
• One India - One Price: Sterling Resorts - 3 days stay at just Rs. 7 990.00 per person. Choose from 28 resorts across India up to 15 days prior to travel (child below 6 years stays free and complimentary dinners)
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, “Think summer and holidays are the first thing that comes to one’s mind. And, in view of the missed vacation opportunity last year, travel demand is clearly on the upswing. As affordable holidays are a key customer demand, our Summer Holiday Sale presents great offers - free flight tickets on summer holiday bookings, full holidays at half price and more. Customers can choose from trending domestic destinations, including Himachal, Kerala, Uttarakhand, Kashmir, Andamans and international destinations like Dubai, Maldives, and Seychelles.”
Click here for more details on Thomas Cook India’s Summer Holiday Sale
Mr. Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “As the vaccine rollout accelerates, homebound Indian travellers are eager to plan their summer break in 2021 after having skipped it last year. Reinforcing our commitment to consistently provide value for our customers, SOTC has introduced Summer Holiday Sale that offers the best deals such as free flight tickets on summer holiday bookings, full holidays at half price etc. Travellers with pocket friendly budgets can now avail of our value packages to a wide range of domestic and international destinations.”
Click here for more details on SOTC’s Summer Holiday Sale
*T&C apply
Mumbai, March 02, 2021
Thomas Cook India & SOTC tap high potential segment of women travellers Launch special flight inclusive women-only tours
Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s recent Second Holiday Readiness Report (December 2020) has revealed that Indian women travellers are displaying a strong appetite for holidays: 65% of women respondents are keen to travel in the next 6 months; a significant 72% displaying confidence in air travel. Basis this demand, Thomas Cook India, and its Group Company, SOTC Travel Ltd. have focussed on women-centric products and have curated special flight inclusive women-only tours to India and Dubai to commemorate International Women’s Day (March 8) and Women’s Month (March).
The evolution of India’s women traveller segment has been exponential and represents a significant and growing opportunity. Their holiday wish list is no longer restricted to safe destinations and shopping, but includes a diversity of eclectic experiences including, outdoors-adventure, self-drives, culture, spa-wellness and gastronomy; interest based itineraries are witnessing strong uptick. In addition to India’s corporate women segment driving the B-leisure potential, a sizable demand has been emerging from the solo woman traveller, millennials, girl gang/ BFF (best friend forever) vacations, bachelorette tours, kitty party getaways, etc.
To commemorate International Women’s Day/Month and celebrate women, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have conceptualised special women-centric tours to Dubai at an attractive starting price of Rs. 49 325.00 with fixed departures on March 5 & 6, 2021. Besides Dubai, packages are available across an array of favourite domestic destinations such as Goa, Kerala, Jaipur and Udaipur with fixed departures on March 7 & 8, 2021. In addition, the companies have also launched a vibrant portfolio of customized tours for women travellers.
Some of the exceptional experiences are vintage car drives around Udaipur’s picturesque lake, spa and wellness in Thekkady, backwater cruises and martial arts in Kerala, casino and pub hopping in Goa, a jeep safari amidst the lush plantations in Munnar, unique stays in forts, havelis or palaces, adrenalin infused experiences like dune-bashing/sand surfing, shopping experiences at the Gold/Perfume/Spice souk, etc. in Dubai.
As safety is one of the top concerns of women travellers, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have put together a holistic three pronged customer confidence-building Assured-Insured-Secured program that covers every aspect of physical safety as well as mental and financial security to provide complete peace of mind. The companies have launched several meaningful initiatives: Doctor on Call 24x7 service in partnership with Apollo Clinics; India’s first Safe Holiday Helpline, a free service offering expert guidance & assistance for safe holiday planning, visa assistance, country specific updates, on-ground health and safety measures, health certification, etc. and seamless COVID-negative certification services via a tie up with ICMR accredited labs.
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head - Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, “India’s women travellers are leading the way in pushing traditional travel boundaries! They are hungry to explore fresh new destinations and indulge in the unique and off-beat travel experiences – across outdoor/adventure, wildlife and eco-tourism, local experiences, culture-cuisine-art, health-wellness, etc. To celebrate women travellers and give a boost to this high potential segment, we have launched memorable women-only holiday experiences to India and Dubai – to enthuse solo travellers, kitty party groups, groups of friends and more.”
Click here for details on Thomas Cook India’s Women Special Dubai Women Special Domestic Packages
Mr. Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “Women travellers are emerging as major growth drivers for the travel sector and they have shown interest in adventure trips, leisure, wellness breaks, shopping getaways and more! To catalyse this demand, we have launched exciting air inclusive packages for Indian women travellers across price points - from pocket friendly budgets to affordable luxury. The new age Indian woman traveller is eager to explore the world based on to her unique preferences/interests. Besides sightseeing, she is keen to explore a multitude of activities that help her gain unique experiences and even new skills.”
Click here for details on SOTC’s Women Special Dubai Women Special Domestic Packages
*T&C apply
Mumbai, February 12, 2021
SOTC Travel Limited starts the year with a significant win: Successfully delivers an International MICE group of 750
Despite the challenges of the COVID era, SOTC Travel Limited has begun the year with a significant win – the successful delivery of an international MICE Group in January 2021. This noteworthy achievement involved a large movement of 750 delegates to Dubai.
The SOTC MICE Team had spent the lockdown period meaningfully - to reimagine its MICE business. Customer insights and data obtained via sustained corporate engagement and the SOTC MICE Survey revealed that 25% of its corporates were open to international travel. To leverage this potential and build corporate confidence in travel, SOTC MICE focused on products-services innovation that included its meticulous Assured Safe Travel Program in partnership with Apollo Clinics.
For the 750 member MICE movement, great care was taken in both planning and on-ground management of the group, with an unerring focus on hygiene, safety and excitement at every step of the journey with support from DTCM. Desert Adventures Tourism, our global office for UAE & Oman incoming - facilitated the offering of a wide range of high-quality products and services and ensured seamless operations.
Highlights of the SOTC MICE Group to Dubai:
• Exclusive charter flights were operated for the Group
• Luxury accommodation at: JW Marriott Marquis, the Second Tallest Hotel in the World
• Engaging experiences included: IMG & Aquaventure at Atlantis - The Palm, etc.
• A special gala-event at a luxury desert camp
• Carefully designed sightseeing with safety measures
Mr. SD Nandakumar, President & Country Head, B2B & Foreign Exchange, SOTC Travel said, “I am proud of this exceptional achievement by SOTC MICE – organizing a flawless MICE tour for 750 delegates during the COVID era – speaks volumes of the unstinted efforts in planning and delivery. All precautions and safety measures were followed as per local regulations in Dubai. The turnaround was inspirational and kudos to each member of Team SOTC MICE - contactless pre-tour operations for the group was completed within 7 days from the day of confirmation! SOTC Team ensured a seamless movement of delegates to Dubai and back.”
He added, “Our innovative initiatives launched during the lockdown: MICE Plus, Hybrid Virtual MICE and our Assured Safe Travel Program have been receiving strong appreciation across our corporates - seeking the expertise of our MICE Teams in their business plans for the future. The massive Dubai Group was a game-changer in many ways and we will continue to push boundaries as we ensure excellence in delivery from our exceptional people at SOTC MICE!”
ABOUT MICE Plus: With an opportunity to rethink and reimagine offerings to customers, SOTC MICE has elevated the next level of MICE experience for the next generation with its latest innovation- MICE Plus.
Mr. Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “We understand that Indian travellers seek value in their holidays and our all-inclusive Maldives offer encourages Indians to grab this amazing opportunity for an affordable fun-filled holiday experience, close to home. Our customers also get to avail of exclusive deals to exciting locations - from February 9-11, 2021.”
Top UPS’s of MICE Plus include:
H&S Measures
• Enhanced Health & Safety (H&S) protocols to ensure the highest level of compliance to global standards
• Entire delivery partners are chosen on basis of adherence to SOTC H&S standards
• Trained tour managers on hygiene requirements
• Various contact points for immediate medical assistance and repatriation if needed
• Adequate travel insurance to ensure peace of mind
Technology & Automation
• Real-time information about all travel related processes such as visa application and insurance
• User-friendly mobile app for passengers to get updates and contests
• Technology tools to minimise human interface
• Feedback & Networking platform
Virtual MICE: ‘Events As Usual’ using technology!
• Virtual MICE – A new & unique way to conduct meeting & conferences.
• Using world class event technologies, Virtual MICE will deliver a virtual event that aligns to company’s objectives
Team of Experts
• Proficient tour managers with rich experience of destinations across the globe
• Over 1000 Destination Specialist Certifications to help curate innovative products
• Expert in-house event management team to cater to both real & virtual events
• Expert F&B consultants catering to every culinary need
Best-In-Class F&B Capabilities
• Serving creative and authentic Indian food on a global platform, adhering to the highest food safety & standards.
• Usage of authentic Indian herbs & spices sourced from reputed Indian companies
• Unique Indian F&B concepts and ethnic cuisines from across the globe
• Region-specific speciality menus curated by our celebrity chefs & culinary experts
• Special care is taken to customise dishes to ensure the guest’s medical, allergy or any religious requirements with regards to food preparation are met
Mumbai, February 11, 2021
Thomas Cook India & SOTC focus on the Maldives opportunity
Introduce an unbeatable all-inclusive offer:
Full Holiday at Half the Price!
Starting at Rs. 51 000.00
• Special offers/deals for bookings between February 11-19, 2021
• Attractive all-inclusive holiday to Maldives - with airfare, stay, meals & transfers
• Companion Holiday Free! To select destinations – India and Dubai
• Travel with Confidence with Thomas Cook & SOTC’s Assured-Insured-Secured Program
After almost a year of missed holidays, vacation deprived Indians are yearning to take a break and spend quality time with their loved ones. Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s Holiday Readiness Report (December 2020) reveals that 67% of respondents are keen to travel in the next 6 months. Given easing of travel restrictions, international destinations are seeing an upward demand trajectory - with 48% respondents likely to take an international holiday and 50% displaying significant interest for short haul destinations, including Maldives.
To capitalise on this demand, Thomas Cook India, India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group Company, SOTC Travel Ltd., have announced an attractive all-inclusive holiday to Maldives at an unbeatable price of Rs. 51 000.00* - converting a premium and aspirational destination into an affordable proposition for Indians. The companies have also curated luxury and super luxury holidays for India’s HNI-UHNI segment, with stays in unique water bungalows and ocean villas at exclusive island resorts of Kandima, Adaaran, Accor and Marriott. For budget travellers, options including Maldivian guest houses ensure great value for money.
In addition to the wedding segment and honeymooners, Maldives’ tropical island allure, coupled with its exotic marine life and exciting water sports, is witnessing growing interest from India’s millennials, adventure enthusiasts, solo travellers and working professionals. It is also a preferred destination for the celebration of special occasions and milestone events.
Besides Maldives, special offers are available across an array of favourite destinations such as Dubai, Russia, Turkey and Egypt; also domestic destinations like Goa, Himachal, North East, Kashmir, Kerala, Ladakh and Andamans - starting at an attractive price of Rs. 16 790.00*.
Domestic holidays feature a range of accommodation options, from forts, havelis, palaces to private villa stays with a chef to conjure up local delicacies; outdoor and adventure experiences like camping and trekking and spiritual sojourns/pilgrimage trips to Char Dham, Kumbh, Kailash Yatra, etc.
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, “Indian’s are keen to travel once again and we want to make it easy and affordable! And so, we are delighted to announce fabulous deals for our customers with our all-inclusive Maldives holiday at an unbeatable Rs. 51 000.00* and our buy one-get one free offer across destinations in India and Dubai. All our holidays come with our Assured Safe Travel Program in partnership with Apollo Clinics to bring back confidence in travel.”
Mr. Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “We understand that Indian travellers seek value in their holidays and our all-inclusive Maldives offer encourages Indians to grab this amazing opportunity for an affordable fun-filled holiday experience, close to home. Our customers also get to avail of exclusive deals to exciting locations - from February 9-11, 2021.”
*T&C apply
Assured Insured Secured Program: To ensure health and safety of customers, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have put together a holistic three pronged customer confidence-building program in the form of the Assured-Insured-Secured that covers every aspect of physical safety as well as mental and financial security to give the customer complete peace of mind. The companies have launched several meaningful initiatives: Doctor on Call 24x7 service in partnership with Apollo Clinics; India’s first Safe Holiday Helpline, a free service offering expert guidance & assistance for safe holiday planning, visa assistance, country specific updates, on-ground health and safety measures, health certification, etc. and seamless COVID-negative certification services via a tie up with ICMR accredited labs.
Mumbai, February 4, 2021
Thomas Cook India & SOTC to catalyze demand for Valentine’s Day Launch special travel experiences and offers
• Holiday offers: Cash discount, Picnic Lunch, Candle-lit dinner with wine, Photography Session, Complimentary spa and a range of other complimentary activities
• Special Experiences: Sunset cruise, Bush dining, Rainforest Walk, Jungle Safari/trek, Gondola ride, Bird watching, wind-surfing, kayaking…
• Offers valid until February 10, 2021
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, Thomas Cook India, India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group Company, SOTC Travel Ltd., have announced their IB introducing a host of special experiences and attractive offers to make this day even more special. Falling on a Sunday this year, the companies are eyeing demand for weekend breaks from India’s couples segment with packages starting at Rs. 12 190.00* covering popular domestic destinations such as Goa, Kashmir, Rajasthan, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, North East, Puducherry, Nilgiris, Gulmarg, Manali, Mussoorie, Cochin, Kollam, Udaipur, Sikkim, Pench National Park, Kanha National Park, etc. as well as international destinations such as Dubai and Maldives.
Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s recent Second Holiday Readiness Report (December 2020) reveals that 67% respondents are willing to travel in the next 6 months and Valentine’s Day presents the perfect opportunity to travel and bond with their loved ones. Besides romantic favourites including Goa, Kashmir, Kerala, Rajasthan, etc., India’s couples, especially the millennial segment, are displaying keen interest in exploring unique locales and unconventional experiences. Hence, the Valentine’s Day portfolio has been created to offer unique options such as a romantic escape in the Nilgiris to South Asia's remotest Luxury Jungle Resort, igloo stays in Manali, wildlife safaris in Kanha National Park, local stays and experiences – art, culture, cuisine in Gangtok, a relaxing hot-spring bath in Sikkim, off roading/self drives North East; also international favourites like a helicopter/sea plane ride in Dubai and scuba diving, kayaking, wind-surfing and water sports in the Maldives.
A range of offers as part of Thomas Cook India and SOTC’s Valentine Specials are:
• Domestic Holiday Offers: Cash discount up to 20%, One Photography Session, Picnic Lunch/Private Dining, Candle-lit dinner with wine, Complimentary spa
• Range of complimentary activities such as Jungle Safari, Trekking, Nature Walk, Bird Watching, Rainforest Walk, Campfire, Gondola Ride, Water Sports
• International Holiday Offers: Cash discount, candle-lit dinner, complimentary bottle of champagne, water sports. Specials in Maldives: sea plane transfers, a romantic dinner on the beach, snorkeling tour, windsurfing session, Sunset cruise, yoga session, 20% discount on spa. Specials in Dubai: Dinner at Dubai’s only rooftop, revolving restaurant - Al Dawaar at Hyatt Regency Hotel, flower bouquet, 15% discount on SPA at hotel, complimentary bottle of wine
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, “India’s couples are looking forward to spending this Valentine’s Day away from the crowds, indulging in unique experience at romantic locales. With growing demand for a combination of adventure, local experiences, wellness, back-to-nature experiences on their romantic break, we are delighted to introduce our Valentine Specials in India and international destinations. On offer are a host of exciting deals and discounts for our customers, across handpicked options such as Puducherry, Sikkim, Nilgiris, Kollam, Manali, etc. at an affordable starting price of Rs. 12 190.00* and Dubai & Maldives starting at Rs. 29 250.00* and Rs. 56 500.00* respectively.”
Click here for details on Thomas Cook India’s Valentine Specials
Mr. Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “As 2020 was a year of missed holidays, Indians are making most of every opportunity to travel and celebrate the important milestones in life, anniversaries and special occasions like Valentine’s Day, birthdays etc. Couples are looking at micro-breaks in their routine daily life for some well needed rejuvenation and relaxation time. Our Valentine Specials offer one-of-a-kind experiences that add an element of exclusivity to the travel experience.”
Click here for details on SOTC’s Valentine Specials
Assured Insured Secured Program: To ensure health and safety of customers, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have put together a holistic three pronged customer confidence-building program in the form of the Assured-Insured-Secured that covers every aspect of physical safety as well as mental and financial security to give the customer complete peace of mind. The companies have launched several meaningful initiatives: Doctor on Call 24x7 service in partnership with Apollo Clinics; India’s first Safe Holiday Helpline, a free service offering expert guidance & assistance for safe holiday planning, visa assistance, country specific updates, on-ground health and safety measures, health certification, etc. and seamless COVID-negative certification services via a tie up with ICMR accredited labs.
*T&C apply
Mumbai, January 29, 2021
SOTC Travel announces physical roadshows of 2021, offering fantastic holiday deals for customers
• One day of the best deals
• One Plus One offer: Book your holiday & get your companion’s holiday - free!
• SOTC’s Holiday Experts will be present to guide and assist
• Thomas Cook India & SOTC’s Assured-Insured-Secured Program
Indians are displaying a strong appetite for holidays with 89% respondents showing keen interest to resume travel. 71% respondents stated that they need human interface for guidance/reassurance and preferred to visit a physical outlet while planning their holidays in COVID era (Thomas Cook India & SOTC Travel Second Holiday Readiness Report (December 2020). As Indians demand a higher level of reassurance and human interaction, SOTC Travel Limited has announced physical roadshows of 2021 - SOTC Holiday Bazaar to guide and assist customers in their holiday planning.
These one day roadshows are scheduled to take place across 6 major cities of India - Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata, Ahmedabad and Lucknow, on Sunday January 31, 2021 - from 10 am-6 pm and offer the best holiday deals. SOTC’s Holiday Experts will be present to guide and assist customers with important elements, including health and safety protocols - aimed to re-instill confidence in travel during the COVID era. On offer are a wide range of international and domestic destinations such as Maldives, Dubai, Goa, Jaipur, Shimla, Hyderabad, Jodhpur, Kovalam, Kumarakom, Udaipur, Agra, Varanasi, Ooty, Rishikesh, etc.
Customers can choose from exciting options that include:
• Private Villas with services of a Chef & Concierge; unique stays in forts, havelis or palaces
• Camping, Trekking & Biking Trips to destinations such as Ladakh, Spiti
• Romantic getaways for honeymooners or to celebrate Valentine’s Day include Maldives, Dubai, Goa, Udaipur, Kashmir, Alleppey, Nainital, Manali, Pondicherry, Hampi and North East
• Spiritual Pilgrimage trips to Char Dham, Kumbh, Kailash Yatra, etc.
• Wellness and Spa
Daniel D’souza, President and Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “Given the success of our previous road shows, we are encouraged to launch the next SOTC Holiday Bazaar offering the attractive deals/offers. SOTC Holiday Bazaar is a great opportunity for Indians to avail of an unbelievable ‘One Plus One Offer’ - Book your holiday & get your companion’s holiday - free. Offering a more personalised experience the Holiday Bazaar gives customer complete peace of mind to plan and travel safely on their holiday.”
Assured Insured Secured Program: To ensure health and safety of customers, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have put together a holistic three pronged customer confidence-building program in the form of the Assured-Insured-Secured that covers every aspect of physical safety as well as mental and financial security to give the customer complete peace of mind. The companies have launched several meaningful initiatives: Doctor on Call 24x7 service in partnership with Apollo Clinics; India’s first Safe Holiday Helpline, a free service offering expert guidance & assistance for safe holiday planning, visa assistance, country specific updates, on-ground health and safety measures, health certification, etc. and seamless COVID-negative certification services via a tie up with ICMR accredited labs.
Mumbai, January 28, 2021
SOTC Travel inaugurates its new store in Colaba, Mumbai
SOTC Travel strengthened its presence in Mumbai with the launch of a new store in Colaba. The opening of the store in this prime location in Mumbai, will provide easy accessibility to consumers planning their holidays.
According to the company’s Second Holiday Readiness Report (December 2020) a sizeable 84% respondents stated their strong preference for reputed travel companies, hotels, etc. and a significant 71% respondents stated that they require the guidance of a holiday expert and preferred to visit an outlet/Virtual Store/video chat while planning their holidays. In an endeavour to guide and assist customers in planning their holiday with convenience, SOTC Travel has inaugurated the new store in Colaba. Customers have the option of availing services with the help of the SOTC Holiday Experts at the store, or they can personally curate their ideal itineraries themselves with the help of the self-service iPad. The store will offer customers a range of travel and travel related services such as domestic and international holidays (across group as well as personalized tours); cruise holidays, flights, hotels, travel insurance, visa and passport services, as well as foreign exchange services.
Vishal Suri Managing Director, SOTC Travel said, “Indians recognize the value and peace of mind of booking with reputed firms and are looking for holidays that are safe. To support our customers with safe travel planning, SOTC’s Holiday Experts at the store will guide travellers with important elements, including health and safety protocols. Our centrally located store at Colaba benefits customers by providing greater ease and accessibility for holiday decision-making. Colaba is a high potential source market for our holiday business and has been strategically selected to help us tap a wide consumer segment consisting of families, working professionals, millennials, etc.”
Assured Insured Secured Program: To ensure health and safety of customers, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have put together a holistic three pronged customer confidence-building program in the form of the Assured-Insured-Secured that covers every aspect of physical safety as well as mental and financial security to give the customer complete peace of mind. The companies have launched several meaningful initiatives: Doctor on Call 24x7 service in partnership with Apollo Clinics; India’s first Safe Holiday Helpline, a free service offering expert guidance & assistance for safe holiday planning, visa assistance, country specific updates, on-ground health and safety measures, health certification, etc. and seamless COVID-negative certification services via a tie up with ICMR accredited labs.
Mumbai, January 20, 2021
Thomas Cook India & SOTC launch India Holiday Festival Inviting Indians to explore the diversity of Incredible India
• January 20-31, 2021
• Range of exceptional locales and experiences across India
• One Plus One offer: Book your holiday & get your companion’s holiday – free!
• Flexibility to change travel date and destination
• Thomas Cook & SOTC’s Assured-Insured-Secured Program
Indians are displaying a keen and growing interest in domestic travel with 52% respondents indicating their preference for a Domestic holiday in 2021 (Thomas Cook India & SOTC Travel Second Holiday Readiness Report (December 2020). In an endeavour to showcase India’s delightful diversity, Thomas Cook India, India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group Company, SOTC Travel Ltd., have launched the India Holiday Festival - inviting Indians to explore and discover their own country. Extending from January 20-31, 2021, on offer is an exceptional array of holiday options along with an unbelievable One Plus One Offer - Book your holiday & get your companion’s holiday - free!
Incredible India offers fascinating choice and diversity, of locales and experiences, that are on par or surpass the best in the world! And Thomas Cook India and SOTC’s India Holiday Festival presents Indians with an exciting array to start their holiday planning: Kashmir - Asia’s largest tulip garden - with rows of multi-hued tulips in to make Holland envious; Shimla’s natural vistas with refreshing hikes amidst the crisp mountain air, Gulmarg’s snow-capped wonderland or Coorg, Munnar and Coonoor’s rolling hills that would put Switzerland on hold; Kerala’s languid backwaters set against the lush green of God’s own country to rival any of Venice’s canals; India’s favourite beach getaway Goa or the blue waters, pristine sands and exciting water sports of Andamans that hold their own against Phuket.
India’s hidden gems include: India’s Grand Canyon – the Gandikota Hills in Andhra Pradesh, Magnetic Hill in Ladakh, Chenab Bridge the world’s highest rail bridge, the world’s largest sundial in Jaipur, Varanasi - the world’s most ancient living city, Dal Lake’s floating post office, the Lonar Lake an astronomical marvel - created by a meteor, awe-inspiring Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya, and much more. For wellness and rejuvenation, India’s choices are plentiful: Kerala’s Ayurveda, yoga in the Himalayas to Tibetan medicinal therapy in Uttarakhand.
The India Holiday Festival presents customers with a wide range of exciting options:
• Private Villas with services of a Chef & Concierge; unique stays in forts, havelis or palaces
• Camping, Trekking & Biking Trips to destinations such as Ladakh, Spiti and many more
• Romantic getaways for honeymooners or to celebrate Valentine’s Day include Goa, Udaipur, Kashmir, Alleppey, Nainital, Manali, Pondicherry, Hampi and North East
• Spiritual Pilgrimage trips to Char Dham, Kumbh, Kailash Yatra, etc.
• Wellness and Spa
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head - Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, “With Indians looking forward to re-starting their travel plans, we have created our special India Holiday Festival that invites every Indian to discover their own country and take pride in her breath-taking beauty and exciting experiences – the hidden gems of Incredible India! Our range of holiday options are at unbelievable prices and we also have an amazing One Plus One offer for all our customers who book during the India Holiday Festival.”
Mr. Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “India has emerged as a favorite holiday destination and Indians are eager to explore the beauty of the country. Our India Holiday Festival brings exclusive packages with unique offbeat experiences. From captivating wildlife to beautiful golden beaches, outdoor adventure and spiritual holidays these getaways offer customers safety and quality time in scenic settings. We invite Indians to discover the diverse travel experiences our own country has to offer.”
Assured Insured Secured Program: To ensure health and safety of customers, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have put together a holistic three pronged customer confidence-building program in the form of the Assured-Insured-Secured that covers every aspect of physical safety as well as mental and financial security to give the customer complete peace of mind. The companies have launched several meaningful initiatives: Doctor on Call 24x7 service in partnership with Apollo Clinics; India’s first Safe Holiday Helpline, a free service offering expert guidance & assistance for safe holiday planning, visa assistance, country specific updates, on-ground health and safety measures, health certification, etc. and seamless COVID-negative certification services via a tie up with ICMR accredited labs.
Click here for details on Thomas Cook India’s India Holiday Festival
Click here for details on SOTC’s India Holiday Festival
*T&C apply
Mumbai, January 12, 2021
Thomas Cook India & SOTC Travel observe growing demand for exclusive and immersive travel experiences
Launch luxury Arctic and Antarctica Cruises targeting India’s discerning travellers
• 14-17 day cruises at Attractive Prices
• Exceptional experiences: the Drake Passage & Antarctic Convergence, the Prins Christian Sund, Greenland’s magnificent landscapes…
• Majestic wildlife encounters: penguins, whales, polar bears, and more
• Outdoor - Adventure experiences: hiking, camping, kayaking options
• Interacting with local Inuit tribes at traditional villages
Thomas Cook India, India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group company, SOTC Travel, have introduced exclusive luxury cruise holidays to the polar extremes of the Arctic and Antarctic. Targeted at India’s discerning travellers, the cruises have been designed to offer spectacular landscapes and unparalleled experiences to ensure a journey of a life time.
Travelling away from crowds - to destinations renowned for natural beauty while indulging in immersive experiences - has emerged as a key trend during the COVID-19 era. To tap into this growing demand, Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel have introduced cruise holidays to Arctic and Antarctica offering breath-taking natural vistas, majestic wildlife, awe-inspiring and relatively untouched terrain with a glimpse into the lives of local cultures living in extreme environments.
Each sailing offers a bucket list of un-matched experiences such as: crossing the Drake Passage and the Antarctic Convergence, a glimpse of the bustling penguin colonies in South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula, a visit to the home of the majestic Polar Bear in Watkins Fjord, etc. On board the Thomas Cook India and SOTC Arctic and Antarctic cruise holidays, customers are offered a luxurious experience on the Ponant Cruise or the MV Sea Spirit: a range of delectable international cuisines, entertainment and live shows, sports and leisure activities, spas, scenic views from the comfort of their own private balcony, among others. In addition, customers can opt for exciting activities from kayaking, camping, hiking or polar region photography.
Antarctic Peninsula (14 Days)
• 2 Nights stay at the Buenos Aires Marriott or similar
• 1 Night at the Arakur Hotel in Ushuaia – the stunning gateway to the 7th Continent
• 10 Nights on board the Luxury Expedition Ship: Sea Spirit
• Stay in Deluxe Suites with Balcony. Exciting encounters with whales, penguins and other marine wildlife using a fleet of Zodiac crafts
• Free upgrade to Premium Suite on booking before January 31, 2021*
Arctic Cruise (17 Days)
• 2 Nights stay at the Novotel Tour Eiffel, Paris or similar
• 14 Nights on board the Ultra Luxury Ponant Cruise
• Stay in Prestige Staterooms with Balcony
• Experience the magnificent landscape of Greenland
• Unlimited Alcoholic & Non Alcoholic Beverages on board the cruise
• Visiting traditional villages and meeting the Inuit people, indulge in activities such as hiking, visit to the lava caves in Jan Mayen, etc.
• Sail along the Prins Christian Sund, a narrow, 100-km long passage that winds its way through cliffs and glaciers
• Flight from Paris – Longyearbeyn (Svalbard)
• Flight from Kanergerlussuaq (Greenland) to Paris
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head - Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, “The COVID lockdown period has resulted in an unprecedented surge in demand for bucket list destinations - away from crowds and combined with immersive experiences. Keeping this in mind, we are delighted to introduce luxury cruises to Arctic and Antarctica, targeted at India’s discerning HNI-UHNI segment. Given that sailing the majestic seas of the Arctic and Antarctic regions are available only for a few months each year, this exclusive product has been launched well in advance - to enable our customers avail of special early bird discounts to avail of a once in a lifetime holiday experience.”
Click here to book Thomas Cook India’s Arctic and Antarctica Cruises
Mr. Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “Luxury travel market offers a significant growth potential with Indian travellers increasingly looking for exclusive and indulgent experiences. To cater to this set of expectations and preferences from the rising wave of luxury consumers, SOTC has introduced unique cruise voyages across Antarctica, Arctic & Greenland curated for those who seek the thrill of unchartered landscapes and unexplored destinations. At an attractive pricing, our Arctic & Antarctica cruises offer exceptional experiences to delight India’s discerning luxury travellers.”
Click here to book SOTC’s Arctic and Antarctica Cruises
Assured Insured Secured
To ensure health and safety of customers, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have put together a holistic three pronged customer confidence-building program in the form of the Assured-Insured-Secured Program that covers every aspect of physical safety as well as mental and financial security to give the customer complete peace of mind. The companies have launched several meaningful initiatives: a Doctor on Call 24x7 service in partnership with Apollo Clinics; India’s first Safe Holiday Helpline, a free service offering expert guidance & assistance for safe holiday planning, visa assistance, country specific updates, on-ground health and safety measures, health certification, etc. and seamless COVID-negative certification services via our tie up with ICMR accredited labs.
*T&C apply
Mumbai, January 8, 2021
Thomas Cook India & SOTC to capitalise on the long/extended weekend opportunity Launch special holiday offers and discounts
For January 14-17 and 23-26, 2021
• Rs. 3 000.00* off on flight inclusive holidays
• Flat 5% off on land only packages
• 30% off on self-drive rides with Zoomcar
• Upto Rs. 10 000.00 hotel credit across select properties
• 25% discount on Visa, passport & Covid negative Services
• Focus of Health & Safety: Thomas Cook & SOTC’s Assured Safe Travel Program
Lockdown fatigue having created significant pent-up travel demand, with positive news on COVID vaccines, Indian consumers are looking to avail of 2021’s long weekends for short breaks/mini vacations. Further, given price surges and availability challenges of the Christmas-New Year high season, the weekends starting January 14-17 and January 23-26, 2021 offer attractive options that are easy on the wallet. To make the most of the long weekends in 2021, Thomas Cook India, India’s leading integrated travel services company and its Group company, SOTC Travel, have handpicked the best deals for long weekend getaways starting at Rs. 3 450.00*, across India, Dubai and Maldives.
According to the recent Thomas Cook India and SOTC Travel - Second Holiday Readiness Report (December 2020), Indians are displaying a strong appetite for holidays - with 89% respondents indicating keen interest to resume travel. With approximately 15 long weekends this year, each weekend presents an opportunity for a well-deserved break with family and friends and to tick off destinations from their bucket lists.
From driving down to the nearest hill station or beach, or taking a flight to explore India’s unique history-culture, outdoors and adventure, a cruise or safari; eclectic accommodation such as a colonial bungalow, plantation villa (coffee/ tea estates), heritage palaces/havelis, long weekends offer travellers a welcome break from the mundane routine/ work life stress while delving into delightful new experiences.
On offer are trending destinations like Goa, Kashmir, Rajasthan, Himachal, Uttarakhand, Kerala, Udaipur, Dubai and Maldives. Special offers during the stay include VIP darshan of Shrinath Ji in Udaipur (Nathdwara), upto Rs. 10 000.00 hotel credit across select properties, all meals with evening cocktail, snacks and daily sightseeing with on-board guide on Antara Cruise etc.
Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. said, “We understand that customers were unable to take a holiday during December due to challenges of availability and high pricing. And so we want the New Year celebrations to continue with our extended weekend holidays in 2021. We have launched very attractive getaways to benefit Indians with special discounts and value adds across India, Dubai and Maldives. And all of this comes with our commitment to Health & Safety with our Assured Safe Travel Program to ensure complete peace of mind and a relaxing mini-vacation!”
Mr. Daniel D’souza, President & Country Head, Leisure, SOTC Travel said, “Based on customer demand and the strong success of our last holiday sale, to enable customers who missed out on the year end break, we have created special deals to make best use of the long weekends in January. With air inclusive packages and destination stays, we’ve packed in an exciting range of favourite locales – all at great value pricing and amazing offers to ensure long weekend holidays that are easy on the wallet. Our long weekend packages are inbuilt with our Assured-Insured- Secured Program to bring confidence to our customers.”
To ensure health and safety of customers, Thomas Cook India and SOTC have put together a holistic three pronged customer confidence-building program in the form of the Assured-Insured-Secured Program that covers every aspect of physical safety as well as mental and financial security to give the customer complete peace of mind. The companies have launched several meaningful initiatives: a Doctor on Call 24x7 service in partnership with Apollo Clinics; India’s first Safe Holiday Helpline, a free service offering expert guidance & assistance for safe holiday planning, visa assistance, country specific updates, on-ground health and safety measures, health certification, etc. and seamless COVID-negative certification services via our tie up with ICMR accredited labs.
SOTC Travel Ltd. |
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Tel (00 91 22) 4905 9100 / Fax (00 91 22) 4905 9800 |
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