As Acacia Africa marks its 20th birthday on May 31, company director Vivian McCarthy looks at how overland travel has evolved over the past two decades.

At the Advantage Travel Conference I had the chance to talk to around 25-30 agents particularly during a speed dating session. On talking with agents, I feel very optimistic on the future of independent travel agents on the High Street, as the majority of them said that business in general is doing well, with January and February particularly strong, with business slightly slowing down in March and April.

Hotels deal directly with people. Marketing hotels these days isn?t about big-budget ads and single-track campaigns; it?s about starting a conversation and getting people talking says ORB Branding Agency Founder and MD Robert Bloxham.

In recent years, the UK online travel industry has continued to grow despite the economic headwinds. While it?s definitely the case that budgets are stretched, we?ve seen that consumers consider holidays to be a necessity rather than a luxury. Research from TravelSupermarket found that, on average, Brits are planning to take three holidays this year. Travel companies which have thrived in this period have done so by combining a value message along with standard holiday marketing.

The next few months are traditionally a key booking time in the travel industry. Agents are maximising on the lates market, and it?s also the perfect excuse to make time to head to warmer climates ourselves. Summer in Glasgow is not to be relied on for a Corona in the sun on a summer afternoon, not unless you own a cagoule. The first May bank holiday also tends to marks the start of conference season. A brilliant opportunity to network, make new contacts and attend industry talks about the latest travel trends and industry updates.

Today, travel companies looking to retain clientele and ensure customers? loyalty have to go through several challenges.