After more than three decades in business, you might assume Garstang Travel’s 35th anniversary bash would be a fairly reserved occasion, involving a few drinks and a bit of cake.
But that’s not the style of founder and director Nicole Eaves, who believed the impressive anniversary – on January 31 – called for a more memorable celebration.
Which is why she whisked her 10-strong team off to Iceland for a celebratory trip in December, taking in a “monster truck” superjeep ride through the wilderness in search of the northern lights, among other activities.
She planned the “action-packed” adventure, spanning 48 hours, with the help of supplier partners chipping in with expenses.
“I wanted to show my appreciation, create memories and have some fun,” Eaves told TTG.
“Despite Iceland ranking as one of our top-selling short-haul destinations, none of the team had ever visited.”
Sipping prosecco in the Blue Lagoon with a mud mask, a private tour of the Golden Circle and dining at a top Reykjavik restaurant could be considered more lavish than your average fam trip, but the fun event paid off, with store manager Claire Donnelly bagging a £3,500 Iceland booking just four days after returning home.
“It was our exact itinerary,” laughed Eaves. “Claire’s first-hand knowledge and enthusiasm for the destination really helped bring the booking to life and get the sale.”
