Taking its business direct to the consumer, South East Asia wholesale tour operator, Footsteps in Asia has released plans to open its bookings to the public.

Commencing 1 November, travelers can book the company’s tours via a travel agent or direct bookings.

Offering tailored packages to destinations including Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, the Group’s founder John Powell said the move will enable the company “to better share its experience, know-how and buying power with consumers who book direct or go through their local travel agent”.

With over 18 years developing packages to Asia, to-date the company has sold trips to up to 250,000 visitors through tour companies Peregrine Adventure, Gecko Adventures, Exodus Travel and more recently The Imaginative Traveler, Sawadee Reisen and The Adventure Company.

Mr Powell cited the company’s ongoing success in the industry to its local guides selected to offer firsthand knowledge.

“They often share special relationships with the regions they work in and are very sensitive to local people and their customs and the environment,” Mr Powell said. 

“As a result, they have earned a wealth of local knowledge very difficult to find elsewhere.