Thomas Cook India and SOTC launch innovative private tours for small group travel, ETTravelWorld

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Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s leading omni-channel travel services company, and its group company SOTC Travel, have jointly launched Van Tours, an innovative travel product designed to meet the needs of India’s growing segment of flexible travelers and small groups. The initiative responds to the increased desire for year-round travel, fueled by easy visa access and growing demand for personalized and affordable experiences.

The new Van Tours concept blends the structure of a group tour with the independence of a tailored holiday. Travelers can explore destinations at their own pace while benefiting from the guidance of a local English-speaking driver guide, ensuring comfort and authenticity. Each itinerary spans approximately seven days and offers a mix of discovery and relaxation across destinations such as Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, Oman, the Philippines, China, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Georgia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Cambodia and Laos.

Designed for groups of four to twelve people, these tours cater to families, multi-generational travellers, groups of friends, women’s groups and celebratory trips such as birthdays, anniversaries or reunions. Guests travel in premium private vans and stay in carefully selected four-star hotels located within the city limits, with breakfast included.

Packages start from INR 38,000 per person for seven nights in Bali and go up to INR 3,000 for Japan (excluding flight tickets and meals). Additional benefits include bottled water and soft drinks during travel, providing a balance of convenience and value.

“With Indians embracing frequent and year-round travel, Van Tours offer an ideal solution to the growing demand for convenience, affordability and flexibility,” said Rajeev Kale, President and Regional Head – Holidays, Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd. “This unique concept of premium chauffeur-driven vans has been carefully designed for small groups of families and friends. Customers can customize their trips by starting their day later, spending more time at favorite attractions, or adding local experiences.”

S D Nandakumar, President and Regional Head, Holidays and Corporate Tours, SOTC Travel, added, “We are seeing increasing travel intent not only from metros but also from Tier 2 and 3 regional markets in India. Our newly launched Van Tours are well-suited for intimate groups seeking enriching experiences at attractive prices, with the added convenience of a chauffeur-guide. By focusing on short-haul, visa-friendly destinations, we are enhancing accessibility and appeal for our clients.”

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