Sporting agency

Press, 27 March 1980, Page 17

Sporting agency

Three years in business have seen a tremendous growth in Young and Lee Travel, Ltd, a firm of travel consultants in Sydenham.

When Dennis Young and Rod Lee formed the company early in 1977, business was done from the premises of a suburban hairdressing salon. Although this was a novel, and at times humorous, start, it soon became apparent that the agency would have to find its own premises. In 1978 Young and Lee' Travel, Ltd, moved into its present offices in Colombo Street, Sydenham. Mr Young has had a close association with the Sydenham area since his childhood and has a personal interest in its growth and development. Since there were at the time no existing travel agencies operating in Sydenham it made sense to move into an area where Mr Young was already known and respected. Both partners are keen sportsmen and their sporting interests have played a large part in the success of the business. The spirit of sportsmanship and fair play is present in all the company's dealings — an

important asset in an industry in which trust plays so large a part. Although Young and Lee Travel caters for all general travel requirements, from internal road, rail and air bookings to world wide services, the agency specialises in sports-associated tours. Their All Black Supporters’ Tours and Trotting Tours are held in high regard both within the in* dustry and by members of the tour parties. The agency also makes arrangements for touring sports teams, nationally and internationally, providing itineraries, arranging matches - and organising recreational activities. ■ All the services offered are free of charge. The impression that booking travel through an agency costs more than dealing direct with a large travel bureau is a misconception which Young and Lee Travel is keen to dispel.

The firm is an agent for a number of insurance companies offering cover for the traveller and recommends this service to anyone planning an overseas trip. Travel insurance is relatively inexpensive — premiums range from $l2 for a $l5

day trip — and well worth the outlay in terms of the peace of mind it gives the tourist. Insurance covers eventualities from ticket cancellation to death, illness and loss of property and also includes a personal liability cover for third party accidents.