For something a little different and fun, we will be including interviews from some of our most popular coach tour operators who will give their insights into the fascinating world of coach holidays. Each tour operator will be put on the spot to provide their views on a range of subjects including: the most popular destinations for 2012, the best/worst things about coach holidays, top tips for making the most out of a coach holiday, the perfect song to listen to whilst on a coach and so much more. This week the spotlight is on Jason Edwards who is the Commercial Director for Edwards Coaches and this is what he has to say….
1. The Hottest new destinations for 2012 are… for a City it has to be Cardiff as it offers a wealth of heritage alongside some of the best shopping around. If you’re looking further afield, I would suggest Ireland. When travelling to Ireland the feeling of stepping back in time is one that I love. Ireland offers an all-round relaxing holiday with first class service wherever you go.
2. The best/worst things about coach holidays are… Best – Having no worries, just leave the car keys behind, sit back, and relax, after all that’s what a ‘Holiday’ is all about. Worst – People that don’t try one!
3. People should consider a coach holiday because… Coach Holidays offer tremendous value for money, with scenic and well planned itineraries. Most operators stay at top hotels and offer great company with the chance of making friends for life. For those who are sat on the fence, I can recommend trying a short break first 3 to 4 days then they will probably be away for 9 to 10 days as they’re generally hooked!
4. The first time I travelled on a coach was… when I was 8 years old. All the local coach operators used to holiday together in Spain, Tossa de Mar or Esatartit. The fathers would take it in turns driving. That;s what I like to call the original busmans holiday!
5. My top tips for making the most out of a coach holiday are…The most important tip for travellers is always using a reputable operator. The cheapest holiday might seem the most attractive on paper but it does not always mean the best. Why book a coach holiday £50 cheaper that’s no good! Ask the coach operator for recommendations and take your time to do your homework before you travel
6. My favourite holiday (coach holiday if by coach) ever was…going to Spain when I was a child, so many wonderful memories that I will never forget.
7. The perfect song to listen to when on a coach holiday is….There’s only one; Cliff Richard’s Summer Holiday. Or if you’re crossing the Severn Bridge returning home Tom Jones Green, Green grass of home!
8. My suitcase essentials when on holiday are…I always make sure I have my Passport and Money. For everything else if you haven’t got it, you can always buy when you reach your destination.
9. The most incorrect myth about coach holidays is…The biggest myth is stuffy, dirty, old coaches, shabby hotels and drivers with a poor attitude. Whereas the truth is most reputable coach operators offer top of the range coaches staying in some of the best hotels around.
10. What’s different about your company? There’s nothing spectacularly different here to lots of other good operators across the country. But one of the major differences for us is that we are family owned and orientated and have been in the game for over 85 years meaning we know how to work hard, and always try to produce the best we can whilst always enjoying the job.
Have you ever travelled on coach holidays with Edwards Coaches? If so, where did you go and what did you think? Get in touch as we would love to hear from you!