Contiki launches new 2006/07 European program

Contiki continues to evolve its innovative range of itineraries with the launch of the exciting new 2006/07 Europe Time Out, Concept and Camping programs – offering even more breadth and depth than last year.

Tammy Marshall, managing director, Contiki Holidays said, “We keep our programs fresh and innovative every year by responding to customer feedback, keeping our fingers on the pulse of what’s hot in Europe and presenting great quality holidays at the best value. In 2006 we will offer over 2500 departures to over 40 countries in Europe alone.

“I am also pleased to say, we have more guaranteed departures between May and September, 2006 than ever before, offering travellers reassurance their tour will run as scheduled.

“Of course with Contiki – we take travellers to the famous hotspots, but Contiki will also uncover what makes European travel so special. As well as the most popular European destinations, next season Contiki will have extended its program into exciting emerging regions including Eastern Europe, Turkey, Macedonia, Jordan and Israel – offering travellers even more choice.

“There are 8 new Time Out itineraries for the 2006 season – here is a sample; the 8 day Magic of Israel & Jordon tour which will perfectly compliment our existing Egypt and Nile product and presents travellers with unique experiences like an overnight in the Negev Desert, a beach stay on the Red Sea and rafting down the Hazbani River. There’s also the 8 day Turkish Delight which includes a visit to Gallipoli (one departure coinciding with ANZAC Day) as well as Berlin to Budapest – one of the Contiki Independent Getaway itineraries which we have included in response to rising interest in Eastern Europe.

“We are expecting significant growth for our Mediterranean and Croatian itineraries and generally our expectations are for another solid booking year. Early bookings are reflecting our expectations and while pent up demand has eased we are still forecasting growth to Europe and US destinations.

“On top of an extensive variety of itineraries we also offer a range of tour styles including; Multi Country itineraries, Independent Getaways, Camping, Contiki’s special program – Concept plus the Regional Itineraries. These tour styles are designed to suit everyone’s needs from first time travellers, to those short on time or travelling solo to those on a budget, looking for independence, or after a really in-depth look at a particular region.

“Of course we also have Contiki Resorts, including Contiki Resort Mykonos, which gives young travellers another holiday option. We have seen a rise in the number of passengers adding a resort holiday onto their European adventure and we’ve designed many of our tours to link up with a relaxing pre or post stay at the resort.

“For travellers on a tight budget Contiki’s Concept program is a great option because it packages the sights and experiences with a variety of accommodation, from cabins in top campsites and well located hotels, to Contiki’s amazing and unique stopovers like an Austrian Gasthof and it’s very own 16th Century French Chateau.

“The Concept program continues to offer a great value way for young people to see Europe with prices starting from as little as AUD$92 (US$69) per day including accommodation, transport, many meals and loads of sightseeing – these prices and inclusions can’t be matched by travelling on your own.

“We also offer three great value Camping Tours to which Contiki has also added some exciting destinations including Macedonia, Montenegro, Croatia and Albania. Our camping tours include travel in luxury coaches, accommodation in top camp sites with swimming pools, showers, washing facilities, handy shops and a lively nightlife, many meals and loads of sightseeing.

“With so much experience in the youth market we understand that price is really important to travellers, but thanks to our strong purchasing power and dedication to value, our 2006/07 new season pricing has dropped from the current season.

“Our success over the years has come from our commitment to our product and exceptional staff are all passionate individuals who love travel.”

Contiki’s 2006/07 Time Out, Concept & Camping brochures are out now! See www.contiki.com for more information.