Uniworld hails Susan Calman TV success

A year-on-year comparison of the company’s UK trade bookings data for the fortnight after the two one-hour episodes aired showed a 288% increase in revenue and a 246% increase in guests booked via the travel trade.

Uniworld launched a trade-specific campaign around the screenings to drive agents to tune in, and encourage their clients to do the same, with a suite of supporting assets provided.

Viewers of the new year series saw Susan Calman travel with Uniworld through India’s Golden Triangle, staying in luxurious Oberoi hotels, and on to Kolkata for a seven-night sailing along India’s holy river aboard the intimate Ganges Voyager II.

Special moments included a rickshaw ride through the bustling streets of New Delhi, an emotional encounter with the Taj Mahal, a friendly cricket match between Susan, fellow guests and the ship’s staff, and the night-time release of hundreds of floating lanterns as a blessing to the river Ganga.

Uniworld is continuing to encourage its agent partners to use the two episodes (available on catch up) as a highly effective sales tool. A stand-alone India brochure, social media tiles, newsletter templates and an introductory offer are still available to help agents to close the sale.

Chris Townson, Uniworld’s UK and Europe MD, said: “Susan and the TV production team did an amazing job of bringing this spectacular India itinerary to life, with all its colour, noise, spirituality and incredible welcome, in a way that was moving, insightful and funny.

“For agents, there is no better tool than to watch it on My5, and encourage your clients to do the same, as there is still opportunity to convert some great business. Our partners who have done that, and used the supporting materials we provided, have seen brilliant return, tapping into increasing appetite for bucket list travel and longer, more immersive holidays.

"This itinerary allows guests to travel at the pinnacle of style, luxury and comfort, seeing the showstoppers but also reaching parts of India that few tourists visit. Just book soon, as this year is almost a sell-out.”