TTG Asia calls Kerala Travels Interserve (KTI) for a polar excursion
TTG Hello! I am interested in a trip to the poles.
KTI Can I have your name and phone number? I’ll have someone call you back in 10 minutes.
(Promptly, there was a call in 10 minutes and I was addressed by my name.)
KTI Which pole would you like to visit?
TTG What do you suggest?
KTI It depends on when you want to travel. We have Antarctic expeditions in January, February and March, and Arctic expeditions in June, July and August. The length of tours varies from seven to 12 nights.
TTG Tell me more about the Arctic expedition apart from the details shown on your website.
KTI These are seven-night and nine-night tours. Do you have any particular interests?
TTG I’m interested in photography and polar animals.
KTI That’s possible. I’ll send suitable itineraries to your email.
(The e-mail arrived in two hours. Three tours were given along with their costs: US$8,376 for the nine-night tour and US$7,390 for the seven-night tour with accommodation in a quadruple porthole cabin on the Plancius. Vital statistics of the ship were provided, and they were comfortable for such a journey through the ice. Two of the tours included a free photography workshop by an expert and the other was a polar bear special.
TTG (calls KTI two hours later) What other activities do the tours offer?
KTI One of the tours includes scuba diving, trekking and snorkelling, depending on weather conditions. You’ll have to get your own scuba suit but scuba equipment will be provided. There are also lectures by experts and camping in the Arctic for one night is possible. You’ll have to indicate your preferences when booking.
TTG Which airline will we be flying on?
KTI We have previously booked our guests on Qatar Airways. If you have an airline in mind it will be given preference, depending on departure suitability. You’ll have to leave two days before the tour begins.
The tour includes a free night’s stay in Oslo during transit, all taxes, and visa and insurance fees. A doctor is also available on call throughout the voyage. More specifics can be worked out when you finalise your choice of tour.
Verdict The consultant was prompt and forthcoming with information. Non-persuasiveness given the niche tour was reasonable, but a follow-up call after the e-mail could have scored points with a client.
By Anand and Madhura Katti
