What's Happening?
AAT Kings and Helloworld Travel have successfully completed a five-day national trade road trip, aimed at strengthening relationships with travel advisors and increasing awareness of guided touring options across Australia and New Zealand. The road trip, which
took place from May 25 to May 29, 2026, covered over 1,000 kilometers through regional Queensland, the Gold Coast, Northern New South Wales, and the Newcastle, Hunter, and Central Coast regions. The initiative involved visiting 20 Helloworld Travel stores and partner locations, engaging with more than 50 travel advisors and consumers. AAT Kings showcased their newly configured small group touring coach, offering immersive 'Open Coach' experiences to provide firsthand insights into their touring products. The road trip also included consumer-facing 'Taste of Touring' events to inspire future guided holiday experiences.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is significant as it highlights the ongoing efforts by AAT Kings and Helloworld Travel to revitalize the travel industry post-pandemic. By directly engaging with travel advisors and consumers, the companies aim to rebuild confidence in guided holidays and support the travel trade at a grassroots level. The road trip serves as a platform to showcase evolving touring options, which is crucial for adapting to changing consumer preferences and market conditions. Strengthening relationships with travel advisors ensures that they are well-equipped to provide expert guidance to travelers, ultimately benefiting the broader tourism sector by driving demand for guided tours.
What's Next?
Following the road trip, AAT Kings and Helloworld Travel are likely to continue their efforts to engage with the travel community through similar initiatives. The success of this road trip may lead to more frequent and widespread outreach programs, potentially expanding to other regions. The companies may also focus on enhancing their touring products based on feedback received during the road trip, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of travelers. Additionally, the positive reception of the 'Taste of Touring' events could encourage the development of more consumer-focused experiences to further stimulate interest in guided holidays.
