Classic Travels partners with Royal Orchid

By Cheranka Mendis

Classic Travel (Pvt) Limited early this week partnered with the holiday division of Thai Airways International, Royal Orchid Holidays who promises to ‘provide unmatched experiences to the Sri Lankan holiday maker.’

The agreement appoints Classic Travel as an agent for Royal Orchid Holidays. Chief Executive Officer Classic Travel Suresh Mendis speaking to Daily FT stated that the tie up would benefit the local clients as Royal Orchid now offers a complete hotel programme run by the airline.

“It’s about the ticket and the hotels; a total package. We will definitely benefit from this,” Mendis said.

With a seven per cent market share, Classic has been in the industry for 17 years. “We have been growing and we hope to continue the momentum over the next few years.” he stated that the industry has been progressing well and that with Classic running a 24 hour business, the company receives maximum benefits from country’s development.

“We have interesting links with other companies such as Air Arabia and Star Cruises. And now with Royal Orchid under our belt we are confident that the times ahead will be good,” he said. The company hopes to forge more partnerships with leading travel groups in the future.

General Manager - Thai Airways for Sri Lanka and Maldives Lawit Sawadirak stated that Thai has been in the Sri Lankan market since 1976. “We have been here for 35 years without interruptions. Classic Travels with the warmth and hospitality they offer to clients will play an important role in strengthening our presence here,” Sawadirak said, “we look forward to flying more Sri Lankans to Thailand.”

Thai Airways, runner up of the recently concluded Asia-Pacific Travel Awards for 2011, offers holiday packages to multiple cities in exotic Thailand and worldwide. Popular for its tailor made vacations for families, Royal Orchid Holidays brings its clients the colour, excitement, culture and adventure of some of the world’s most memorable destinations. The Family Packages are designed to capture the youngster’s attention and imagination through kid’s clubs and other activities, whilst parents can enjoy a stress free holiday knowing their kids are in safe hands. Most resorts and hotels included in the Royal Orchid Holidays packages are child-friendly, with interconnecting rooms, baby-sitting services and special kids’ menus.