Wilfred Selvaraj - MD - LGT Holidays
We live in an era where travel experiences are continuously evolving. Changing traveller preferences, technology, and an increasing focus on sustainable tourism are reshaping the travel experience. With so many details to manage on your own, planning a trip can get overwhelming. That’s where a tour and travel company comes in. One such company is LGT Holidays, founded in 2016 by a team of passionate travel professionals. LGT Holidays is the travel and tours brand of LGT Business Connections Pvt Ltd.
Under the leadership of Managing Director Mr Wilfred Selvaraj, LGT Holidays specialises in creating personalised travel plans that ensure every aspect of your journey is taken care of. They make it easier to explore new places and cultures while providing smooth, enjoyable, and responsible trips. Passionate about creating unforgettable travel experiences and organising exceptional events, LGT Holidays is dedicated to turning travel dreams into reality.
LGT Holidays are dedicated to creating exceptional travel experiences that inspire, enrich and create lasting memories. They strive to exceed expectations with personalised service, unique destinations, and seamless travel arrangements.
The company aims to be the leading provider of bespoke travel experiences, renowned for excellence and innovation. They strive to be the top choice for travellers seeking unforgettable and transformative journeys worldwide.
LGT Holidays began as a small, family-owned travel agency with a single office. Their mission was simple: to provide personalised and memorable travel experiences to their clients. In the initial years, the organisation focused on offering customised travel packages to local destinations, building a loyal customer base through exceptional service and attention to detail. Their commitment to quality quickly earned them a reputation for reliability and excellence.
However, with the growing demand for diverse travel experiences, LGT Holidays expanded its offerings to include international destinations. Within a few years of their inception, they had established partnerships with key players in the global travel industry, offering luxury tours, adventure trips, and corporate travel solutions. Over the years, they have served a diverse clientele, including PHILIPS, V-GUARD, ORIENT ELECTRIC, VENUS HOME APPLIANCES, and more. They operate offices in Chennai, Hyderabad, Cochin, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Delhi.
“Our journey has been one of continuous growth and innovation,” says Mr Selvaraj.
“We look forward to continuing this legacy and creating more exceptional travel experiences for our clients.”
Personalised Service: Their experienced travel experts work closely with clients to understand their preferences and curate bespoke itineraries tailored to individual needs.
Expert Guidance: The team comprises seasoned travel professionals with extensive knowledge of global destinations, offering insider tips, recommending hidden gems, and ensuring every aspect of the trip exceeds expectations.
Unrivalled Destinations: Whether it’s the pristine beaches of the Maldives, the vibrant culture of Japan, or the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, LGT Holidays offers a diverse array of destinations to satisfy every traveller’s wanderlust.
Quality Accommodations: Accommodations are handpicked to embody luxury, comfort, and authenticity, ensuring that each stay is extraordinary.
Seamless Travel Experience: They handle every detail, from transportation and accommodation to excursions and dining reservations, allowing clients to relax and immerse themselves in the journey.
LGT Holidays ensures high levels of customer satisfaction through a range of dedicated services. The company prioritises personalised travel planning, taking the time to understand each client’s unique preferences and needs. “We engage in detailed discussions to create tailored travel experiences that truly exceed expectations,” says Mr. Selvaraj.
Their team of seasoned travel experts offers extensive knowledge of destinations worldwide and maintains strong relationships with local partners to deliver exceptional services.
Round-the-clock customer support is provided to address any issues or concerns during trips, while quality assurance is upheld through trusted service providers and regular client feedback. “We constantly refine our services based on client reviews to ensure we maintain high standards,” adds Mr Selvaraj. LGT Holidays also offers comprehensive travel assistance, from visa and insurance support to handling disruptions like flight cancellations. Transparent communication throughout the booking process and detailed itineraries help clients feel informed and confident.
Their user-friendly website and loyalty programs reward repeat clients, enhancing overall satisfaction and support. Mr Selvaraj adds, “Our website, www.lgtholidays.com, is designed to be user-friendly and informative, providing easy access to travel information, booking options, and customer support.”
LGT Holidays stands out by offering personalised travel packages tailored to individual interests and budgets. “Whether it’s an official vacation, a romantic getaway, or an adventure trip, we ensure that every detail is taken care of,” says Mr Selvaraj. Other factors include,
Corporate Travel Management: Comprehensive solutions are provided for businesses, including planning and organising retreats, meetings, and incentive trips, making corporate travel smooth and efficient.
Group Tours: LGT Holidays arranges group tours for various destinations, managing all logistics so clients can focus on enjoying their trips; ideal for clubs, schools, and social groups.
Speciality Travel: They cater to niche markets with speciality services such as wellness retreats, culinary tours, and cultural immersions, offering unique and enriching experiences.
Accommodation and Transportation: All aspects of accommodation and transportation are handled, from luxury hotels to budget stays and private transfers to car rentals, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey.
Visa and Travel Insurance Assistance: Support with visa applications and travel insurance is provided, ensuring clients have all necessary documentation and protection for their travels.
Upon asking the challenges they faced, Mr Selvaraj says, “Within the industry, the challenges are numerous. From health concerns to economic uncertainties, addressing these issues head-on is crucial for providing exceptional travel experiences.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on travel demand, significantly raising health and safety concerns. To combat these issues, LGT Holidays implements stringent health protocols in collaboration with trusted partners, ensuring sanitised transportation, accommodations, and activities. The company also keeps clients informed with up-to-date travel advisories and flexible booking policies to adapt to shifting restrictions. “Our commitment is to ensure every aspect of travel is as safe and smooth as possible,” Mr Selvaraj emphasises.
Economic fluctuations further complicate the travel landscape, affecting travel budgets and consumer confidence. “We understand that economic uncertainty can impact travel plans,” Mr Selvaraj adds. “That’s why we strive to provide options that cater to different budgets and offer flexible payment plans and promotional offers to ease financial concerns.” As technological advancements and cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, LGT Holidays remains proactive by investing in the latest technology and implementing robust security measures. Their website and booking systems are regularly updated to ensure a seamless and secure experience for customers. “We prioritise both technological innovation and data security to enhance our customers’ travel planning,” Mr Selvaraj notes.
In a market saturated with options, LGT Holidays sets itself apart through personalised service and unique travel experiences. Their focus on customer satisfaction, coupled with loyalty programs and exclusive offers, helps attract and retain clients despite the competition. The shift in consumer preferences towards experiential and personalised travel also demands continual adaptation. LGT Holidays stays attuned to emerging trends and client feedback, ensuring their offerings meet the growing demand for immersive travel experiences.
“Navigating global travel regulations can be complex,” adds Mr Selvaraj. “We maintain a dedicated team that stays informed about regulatory changes, ensuring compliance with all requirements.” They assist clients with visas, travel insurance, and other documentation to streamline the travel process.
“At LGT Holidays, success is defined by our ability to consistently exceed customer expectations,” says Mr Selvaraj. “For us, it’s about crafting exceptional travel experiences that inspire and create lasting memories. Our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction is the foundation of everything we do.” The company’s greatest achievement lies in the continuous positive feedback and loyalty from clients, reflecting their trust and satisfaction. LGT Holidays has also been recognised as a leading travel agency in various industry forums, earning accolades for its innovative travel packages and exceptional service standards.
Since its inception, LGT Holidays has expanded operations across multiple cities in India, offering a wide range of travel services, including MICE, FIT, leisure travel, events, and auxiliary services. “Our growth is a testament to our dedication and focus on delivering the best travel experiences,” Mr. Selvaraj notes.
Digital transformation has significantly impacted LGT Holidays’ operations and customer engagement. The company’s website offers easy access to travel information, personalised itineraries, and real-time updates, enhancing the overall customer experience. Mr Selvaraj explains, “We use data analytics to understand customer preferences and tailor our offerings, leading to higher satisfaction and repeat business.” AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants provide 24/7 customer support, ensuring prompt responses to queries and issues.
Social media and digital marketing strategies have broadened LGT Holidays’ reach, allowing the company to engage with a global audience and build a strong online community. “Digital transformation has enabled us to deliver more efficient services, foster stronger customer relationships, and stay competitive in the evolving travel industry,” adds Mr Selvaraj. He adds,
“In the coming years, advancements in AI, VR, and AR will further personalise travel experiences and revolutionise trip planning. Blockchain will enhance transaction security, IoT will create smarter travel ecosystems, and sustainable technology will drive eco-friendly travel solutions, meeting the rising demand for responsible tourism.”
Looking forward, LGT Holidays envisions becoming a 500-crore company with a strong presence in all major Indian cities. Their expansion plans include diversifying into MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), FIT (Free Independent Traveler), leisure travel, events, and other auxiliary services within the travel and tourism sector.
Mr Selvaraj emphasises, “We aspire to be listed among the top companies, supported by robust HR practices and a strong, people-centric culture. Our ultimate goal is to be recognised as one of the top 5 travel and tourism companies in India.”
By prioritising these goals, LGT Holidays is poised for sustainable growth and aims to deliver exceptional value to customers and stakeholders.
India is poised to become a major travel destination, much like Thailand and Malaysia. The country’s rich culture, diverse landscapes, and historical significance offer travellers unique and unparalleled experiences. With the government’s increasing focus on tourism, it’s an opportune moment to enter the travel industry.
Mr Selvaraj emphasises, “The government’s initiatives, such as ‘Incredible India,’ coupled with improved infrastructure, are set to boost the tourism sector significantly. India’s diverse attractions—ranging from historical landmarks to vibrant festivals—make it an attractive destination for tourists.” He adds, “The growing middle class and rising disposable incomes are driving domestic and international travel, creating demand for high-quality travel services.”
Technological advancements can enhance customer experiences, streamline operations and attract global audiences. By capitalising on these opportunities, India’s travel industry can achieve remarkable growth and establish itself as a global travel hub.
Advising aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals entering the travel industry, Mr Selvaraj shares,
“Understand that the travel industry is service-oriented and requires time to gain momentum. Initially, growth may be slow, but with a focus on high-quality service, the returns improve significantly as the business matures. Approach this industry with patience and proper planning, viewing it as a long-term endeavour. Building strong relationships, delivering exceptional service, and staying adaptable to the ever-changing landscape are essential for sustained success.”
Follow us on Google News