How do you build a bike package so that it will be really liked by the customers? We asked Ann Ask at Hotel Turistgården in Simrishamn to tell us how she thinks when putting together her packages. Precision with details, security and small surprises are included in the recipe.
Your packages in Österlen are popular, what's the secret?
Our bike packages are popular because the concept is available for three or five days and you as a customer get to know exactly what is included in the price. Then you get tips on different bike tours with experiences of varying kinds. With us we book friends, couples, families, associations with more bike packages and go out on wonderful Österlen. In addition, cycling is safe here and one does not have to perform without "just being". Most of us have learned to ride bikes since childhood, so it is nice to be safe in what you get. You do not need to challenge each other but have the experiences together.
Many in the industry believe that food is important. Do you agree?
We always keep high quality lunch packages, we make good salads and have different from day to day. The baguettes are freshly baked with good toppings, customers get drinks and coffee with them.
More factors that go home with customers?
We check that the bikes are in good condition before the customers leave. We can customize as needed so that you can cycle for example to look at art, antiquities, nature experiences. Otherwise, most people will find their favorite places themselves. Our hotel is located in the middle of Simrishamn with proximity to the harbor and many restaurants. It is also practical.
Do you have any summary tips for anyone who should put together a good bike package?
Clarity of what is included in the bicycle packages, small good surprises in the lunch packages, remembering refrigeration lamps, thinking about ordered special diet. Show good service when guests get their bikes, help raise and lower saddles, listen carefully to what the customer is looking for in their bike package, for example a restaurant round. Be open to the fact that people themselves want to find their strawberry spots so that not everything is arranged.
If you are going on a bicycle trip that does not take place in Österlen, where do you control the cosine?
Västernorrland, the area around Östersund, Ånge.