INTERVIEW : “WE ARE A ONE-STOP SHOP FOR ALL YOUR TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS” MR SANDEEP SAID, DIRECTOR OF BRIGHTSUN TRAVEL

BY DEBAJYOTI CHAKRABORTY

NEW DELHI, 10 OCTOBER 2024:

1. Q) Brightsun Travel India has been crafting personalized travel experiences for over three decades. How is Brightsun landscape in India evolved since the company’s inception, and how has Brightsun adapted to these changes?
2. A) Our goal has always been to create ease of travel and offer unique experiences to our customers. We started by selling flights and focused on building strong relationships with not only our clients but also our airline partners. Providing great service has always been at the core of our company. Today, Brightsun Travel is a one-stop solution for all travel requirements, including flights, holidays, hotels, cruises, and tours. As technology advanced, we embraced online booking and social media to reach more travellers. This flexibility has helped us stay ahead in the industry. We’ve also expanded our offerings to include sustainable travel options, as more travellers are interested in the impact of their journeys. Our experiences now include cultural activities and off-the-beaten-path adventures that cater to what today’s travellers want.

1. Q) In recent years, sustainable travel has gained considerable attention. How does Brightsun Travel India incorporate sustainability into its travel packages and services, and what initiatives do you have to promote responsible tourism?
2. A) It is true that sustainable travel has significantly increased in recent years especially after the pandemic. We recognise our responsibility to promote responsible tourism and actively seek to minimise our environmental impact while also providing enriching experiences to our customers. We have partnered with numerous eco-friendly hotels and accommodations worldwide that prioritise green practices. The airline partners we work with are investing in sustainable technologies such as using SAF (sustainable aviation fuels), which we promote as our preferred partners to our customers and in our advertising. Our itineraries often include activities that raise environmental awareness, such as wildlife conservation tours and nature-based excursions with local vendors. These experiences not only support community businesses but also contribute to the local economy.
3. Q) Customer preferences in travel have shifted due to factors like technology, personalization, and post- pandemic concerns. How is Brightsun leveraging innovation and technology to enhance customer experience and remain competitive in this evolving market?
4. A) Post-pandemic, the travel landscape has shifted dramatically. To meet these evolving customer needs, we leverage technology and innovation. Our data analysis helps us offer personalised recommendations tailored to individual travel histories and interests, ensuring a unique experience for everyone. We’ve streamlined our website and mobile app for seamless navigation and integrated a chatbot for instant customer support. We partner with suppliers who prioritise cleanliness, and our travel experts ensure clear communication of health protocols to customers at destinations. Additionally, our flexible booking policies provide peace of mind for our customers.
5. Q) Your services encompass a wide range of travel needs, from cultural tours to luxury accommodations. Could you share some recent success stories or unique travel experiences that Brightsun Travel India has created for its customers?
6. A) A recent success story involves Mrs. Babbar and her family who reached out to us on the evening of first week of March 2024 with a heartfelt request to book their first-ever international trip to Georgia. Their five-year-old daughter had a special desire to visit this beautiful country. With limited time to process the visa and book their package—especially since they planned to travel within a month — we knew it was a challenge. Typically, obtaining a Georgia visa takes around 15 days, and we were told that many travel agents were hesitant to accept applications due to concerns about rejections. However, our dedicated visa team stepped up to the challenge and successfully secured the visa for the family in record time. We also tailored their travel package to fit their specific wishes, ensuring it was a perfect match for their family of three. The joy of seeing this family embark on their dream trip to Georgia, especially for their daughter, was truly rewarding. At Brightsun Travel, we truly believe in going above and beyond for our customers, no matter the challenges we face.
7. Q) As the spokesperson of a company with a strong commitment to cultural appreciation, how do you ensure that your team delivers authentic, immersive cultural experiences to travellers, while also respecting and preserving local traditions and environments?
8. A) Through local partnerships as already mentioned above. We collaborate with local suppliers, guides and communities who provide invaluable insights into their culture and traditions, adding further to the experience. We’re aware about the importance of respecting local customs and practices, which is why our team ensures that our customers are well-informed before embarking on their journeys. Plus, we actively seek feedback from both our customers and local communities to continually refine our offerings and align with local needs and values.