In Port Vila the group was based at The Grand Hotel & Casino which recently reopened following a full refurbishment.
Over the course of the famil, agents sampled a progressive dinner showcasing some of Port Vila’s leading dining venues, giving them a taste of the destination’s growing culinary scene.
A highlight was a full-day sailing charter aboard Major Tom with Sailing Vanuatu. Agents spent the day snorkelling before a barbecue lunch on board. The charter sailed to Lelepa Island where the group was welcomed ashore by local women singing traditional songs. The day closed with a kava ceremony and seafood platter.
There were also site inspections of Port Vila resorts and hotels, giving agents a view of the accommodation options available across the destination.
‘Famils like this are all about turning knowledge into confidence,’ says Jacquie Carson, VTO NZ representative. ‘With direct access from Christchurch, it was the perfect time to show South Island agents everything Vanuatu has to offer.’
Trade famil participants included Melissa Topp, HoT Christchurch City; Sarah Crowe, HoT High St Lanes; Liz Hobson, HoT Northlink; Russell Mein, World Travellers Riccarton; Tessa Fisher, Envoyage Travel Christchurch; Claire Thomas, Travel Managers Christchurch; Paula Rhodes, HoT Hornby; D’Arne Haines, Holland Beatson Clark Travel.
