We are a Preferred partner of British Airways and I am very proud of this association and partnership. Of course the BA strike has brought challenges to us and many of you know we have reprotected your travel on other airlines when flights have been cancelled. It is absolutely right that we take the is responsibility but it does come with a price tag to the business as reprotection does mean higher fares that we have to absorb. I am not winging, merely highlighting that the media focus on the loss to the airline but it also affects many tour operators and companies who also have no choice but to absorb higher costs.

At Bales I do not allow the word problem – I call them creative challenges – and it makes for never a dull moment.

It would be wrong not to publically note how committed and dedicated the Bales team are – and I am so proud that every one of them is totally committed to customer service and delivery. They really care so much and work on detail to ensure that you have the holiday you deserve.

As for myself I went to Egypt last week for various meetings. To see hoteliers, cruise companies, our guides and last but not least our beloved dahabiyyas. When I boarded the boats I became absorbed in the comments so many of you have written in the guest book. I was also lucky enough to meet Bales travellers that were onboard the boats and was so thrilled to hear that you were all having such amazing time. As I know that the dedicated crew are very much a part of the success of the dahabiyyas, this I personally wanted to thank them and recognise this by presenting service of excellence awards. It is important that we celebrate success and to show that it is so many peoples input to ensure we exceed your expectations.

I continue to do a very bad job on the work – life balance – and it is a constant battle to ensure I do not neglect my family – many of you will have the same issues and I admire those that have got it right. That is why holidays are so so important – it is precious time with your family and that is why I believe the industry will thrive as we all become time poor in our working lives and need to know we can share travel with our loved ones. This is beginning to sound like a sermon so I am signing off now.
Catch up soon.

Mandy.

About Mandy Nickerson

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Mandy endeavours to share her travel experiences (where she will 'tell it like it is') and also detail the latest exciting projects that she is involved in. Mandy welcomes your feedback - please feel free to submit your thoughts, queries, comments and theories below.