John Dixon - Destinations By John
After many years being involved with organising travel arrangements in my career, I decided to do it professionally. Our first shop was in Monkseaton but after eight years we took the opportunity to expand by taking over the old Tui shop in the centre of Whitley Bay.
Why use an Independent Travel Agent?
As an Independent Travel Agent, we do not have to promote one brand over another, it is all about meeting the customer’s needs. We always recommend the supplier who will be best for our client based on our knowledge and experience. Ultimately the customer makes the decision, but we can offer alternatives or explain why an alternative resort may work better for them.
Recently a couple came in to book their first family cruise and it quickly became apparent that what they thought and expected was not the reality of the situation. Our advice led them to book a land-based holiday which they thoroughly enjoyed. We cruise regularly so know how to explain the features of the different cruise lines and details of the ports.
What sets us apart?
We are a family run business and I work with my daughter who is a fully trained travel agent. We are friendly but efficient and several clients just pop in for a catch-up chat between holidays. Our staff understand the workings of a small business, the relationships we build with clients and our high levels of customer service.
For example, Tracey works for us part time and fits the criteria wonderfully, she understands our approach and fits in as part of the team.
We build the business by repeat clients and recommendations, word of mouth is very important. Our 5 Star Google Reviews show we are getting it right and this is echoed by having our best year ever.
Staying Updated
We have regular supplier updates both on email and by webinars plus store visits by the operators Area Managers. We are classed as a Managed Business of Barrhead, while remaining totally independent with our own ABTA Number P8323. This in effect means we have their buying power and everything we sell has ATOL protection.
On Line Bookings
Many people found during COVID that having booked a hotel/villa, then flights separately they lost money as they were not protected. Our clients all had full refunds. With the likes of Jet2 Holidays clients can book on line but they will find we are the same price and print off all the paperwork and look after them. Plus, they are supporting local business!
Many people still do not realise that some of the online booking portals are not LIVE, so pricing seems great initially but can rise though the booking process.
With ourselves you can always speak to the same people, build a great relationship, and have someone to turn to if you have any questions or need help.
Complex Travel
We thrive on working with clients looking for a one-off bucket list trip and recently have worked on a rail holiday right across Canada that ended up with a Polar Bear experience in remote Churchill. This year Japan is in high demand, and we have organised several trips where the client travels across country via rail, with the hotels being organised in different cities, plus fully organised and cruises from Tokyo. Honeymoons are another area where we work with clients on far flung destinations with the pairing of Sri Lanka and the Maldives being very popular.
Other Information
Our shop is VERY dog friendly, and we always have dog treats available. Also, we have a Children’s Area with real aircraft seats from a Boeing 757 so children can colour in, read, or play with toys giving the adults time to concentrate on their travel plans.
We have great relationships with tour operators and suppliers and in the past, we have held two large travel shows with various suppliers in attendance and we are looking to do this again in the future as well as one off supplier events
To book your holiday pop into Destinations by John, Belvedere House 254A Whitley Road Whitley Bay, NE26 2TE
0800 1777 8857