OZ-bus in sunset
A survey conducted by Oz-Bus has revealed some surprising results almost one year on from the launch of its pioneering, overland journeys.
Of the passengers surveyed, 98% said that the trip exceeded the expectations.
Oz-Bus is the only adventure company to take passengers by bus all the way from London to Sydney, Kathmandu and New York.
OK, there is an occasional ferry, train or ship to help facilitate the bus travel.
Of the 300 passengers that Oz-Bus has transported across the globe over the last 12 months, almost 60% of its passengers are female.
Even more surprising is the fact that 60% travellers are aged over thirty, with 24% of its passengers in the sixty-plus age bracket.
Oz-Bus delights in being such a hit with the older generation.
More than 70% of the passengers said that they had no fixed plans for onward travel once they reached their final destination, proving that the adventure is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.
OZ-bus at Big Ben, London
Alastair Chrystal, who bought the company in April 2009, said the profile of Oz-Bus’s passengers contrasts sharply with the early belief that Oz-Bus would mostly appeal to students.
He cites adventure, safety and the companionship provided by small group travel, albeit eclectic in nature, as being the three most likely reasons for this.
Oz-Bus has now introduced shorter trips - at a lower cost - such as the London-Kathmandu bus trip, which costs £2499. (The London to Sydney trip is priced at £4789.)
Chrystal hopes this will encourage more young people to take the plunge with Oz-Bus before starting a career. He believes young people are attracted by the many adventure pursuits available as options with Oz-Bus; the world’s third highest bungee jump in Nepal, crocodile safaris, and scenic flights around Everest.
The first ever Oz-bus trip from London to New York left on March 21st. It included an 18 year old male student and an 81 year old grandmother. Prior to this, the oldest passenger had been the company’s senior ambassador, Tony Barker, aged 78.
In 2011, Oz-Bus plans to launch overland bus trips from London to Beijing and also hopes to extend its bus trips in the US with plans to travel from San Francisco to Rio.
The price includes all transport and travel, an experienced tour leader, local guides, national park fees, roofed accommodation and breakfast.
For more information visit www.oz-bus.com
