Hays Travel agent Natalie Taylor had a transformative safari experience in April 2024; in the latest edition of our Agent Insight series, she shared how the trip defied her preconceptions and redefined how she sold the touring sector
"When I thought of touring holidays, I pictured endless coach rides, a blur of landmarks through the window, and a pace that left little time to truly experience anything. I assumed it was something reserved for the older generation—a surface-level glimpse of the world.
"That was, until I travelled to South Africa in April 2024. This wasn’t just a tour—it was an immersive adventure."
A part of something special
"From the very start, I felt part of something special.
"The local tour guides weren’t just knowledgeable—they were passionate. They encouraged questions, welcomed detours, and went above and beyond to make the experience unforgettable. It never felt rehearsed or routine. Their excitement matched ours. Even when seeing animals they must encounter daily, you could tell they loved sharing these moments just as much as we did.
"Even when seeing animals they must encounter daily, you could tell they loved sharing these moments..."
Touring stigma: not just passing through
"There’s a stigma that touring is rigid or impersonal, but our experience was anything but. We were fully immersed in South Africa’s breathtaking wildlife and landscapes. We were not just passing through—we were present, engaged, and moved.
"This trip completely changed my perspective. I would return in a heartbeat and wouldn’t hesitate to bring my family along.
"Touring, when done right, is about so much more than ticking off destinations. It’s about finding your client the right operator—one that understands what matters to them—whether it’s wildlife, culture, or simply making time to soak it all in. After all, they may never return to these places again.
"If your clients have ever questioned whether a touring holiday is for them—encourage them not to! Choose wisely, and it could become the most meaningful trip they've ever taken."
