Dhaval Shethwala and Ankit Mehta of Oceanblue Travels and Presha Tours and Travels
Born into a middle-class family in 1982, Dhaval Shethwala’s journey to entrepreneurship was driven by a deep-seated ambition for greatness. After completing a Diploma in Taxation Law in 2002 from Ahmedabad, Dhaval embarked on a career in finance, securing his first job as a DH Finance at a pipeline engineering firm. This role provided him with invaluable experience and insights into the corporate world. His partner, Ankit Mehta, shared a similar background in finance and a passion for creating exceptional customer experiences.
In 2011, a disappointing luxury vacation experience with friends sparked the idea for Oceanblue Travels. The group had paid the full amount in advance, only to receive subpar service. Feeling cheated and determined to make a difference, Dhaval and Ankit decided to establish a travel company that would redefine luxury travel and exceed customer expectations. This shared vision and relentless dedication to quality service laid the foundation for their business.
Business Inception and Growth
From its inception, Oceanblue Travels focused on providing world-class travel experiences. Initially, the company faced the challenge of breaking into a competitive market dominated by established players. However, their commitment to personalized service and customer satisfaction quickly set them apart.
Oceanblue Travels has achieved significant milestones, including servicing MNCs and business corporates. Recently, they sold a package for a 100-member Varanasi tour for The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. They have also managed group bookings for CA firms, doctors, and various corporate clients for destinations like Sri Lanka, Goa, and the North East states of India.
Impact on the Market and Society
Oceanblue Travels has significantly impacted the market and society in several ways:
- Convenience: The agency simplifies travel planning by handling research, bookings, and logistics, saving customers time and effort.
- Expertise: With extensive industry knowledge, they provide informed decisions and personalized recommendations.
- Tailored Experiences: Offering customized travel packages that cater to individual needs and preferences.
- Competitive Pricing: Leveraging relationships with airlines, hotels, and service providers to negotiate better prices and discounts.
- Boosting Local Economies: Promoting tourism and supporting local businesses.
- Trust and Assistance: Providing reliable support and assistance throughout the travel journey, enhancing customer security and peace of mind.
Services Offered
Oceanblue Travels offers a wide range of services, including:
- Flight Bookings: Assisting in finding and booking flights to desired destinations.
- Hotel Reservations: Helping clients find and book accommodations that fit their preferences and budget.
- Vacation Packages: Offering customized vacation packages that include flights, hotels, transportation, and activities.
- Car Rentals: Arranging car rentals to suit specific needs.
- Cruise Bookings: Helping choose the right cruise line, itinerary, and cabin, and managing the bookings.
- Travel Insurance: Providing travel insurance services for coverage during trips, including medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost luggage.
Challenges and Learnings
The journey of Oceanblue Travels has not been without challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted the travel industry, leading to a significant drop in tourist numbers and bookings. Post-lockdown, many hotels offered direct discounts to clients, which further hampered business.
To overcome these challenges, Dhaval and Ankit focused on:
- Customer Value: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and offering budget-friendly packages.
- Service Enhancement: Continuously improving service quality.
- Promotion of Tourism: Campaigning for government support to boost tourism.
- Expansion Plans: Planning to open new branches in other cities of Gujarat, specializing in corporate, school, college, and event organizer tours.
Essential Components for Starting the Business
The success of Oceanblue Travels is attributed to several key factors:
- Industry Knowledge: Staying updated with the latest trends, destinations, and services in the travel industry.
- Relevant Experience: Gaining practical experience through education and working in the industry.
- Business Plan: Developing a comprehensive plan outlining goals, target markets, marketing strategies, and financial projections.
- Legal Compliance: Ensuring compliance with legal and licensing requirements.
- Technology and Infrastructure: Investing in necessary technology and infrastructure to support operations.
- Supplier Relationships: Establishing strong relationships with travel suppliers.
- Marketing and Branding: Developing a strong brand identity and marketing strategy.
- Customer Service: Focusing on delivering exceptional customer service.
Market Opportunity Identification
Oceanblue Travels identified a significant market opportunity by addressing common challenges faced by travelers:
- Executive Summary: Providing comprehensive travel advisory services tailored to individual needs.
- Company Description: Specializing in personalized travel solutions and value-added services.
- Market Analysis: Capitalizing on the growing interest in travel and the complexity of planning trips.
- Competitive Analysis: Differentiating through personalized service, industry knowledge, and strong supplier relationships.
- Marketing and Sales Strategy: Employing a multi-channel marketing approach and establishing partnerships within the travel industry.
- Operations Plan: Streamlining operations with technology and continuous advisor training.
- Financial Projections: Achieving profitability within the first year and projecting steady growth.
Unique Entrepreneurial Traits
Dhaval and Ankit’s entrepreneurial success is rooted in their ability to build strong relationships, continuously enhance their expertise, and deliver personalized travel solutions. Their dedication to customer satisfaction and ethical business practices has earned them a loyal clientele and industry recognition.
Learnings and Advice
Through their entrepreneurial journey, Dhaval and Ankit have learned valuable lessons:
- Networking: Building a strong network within the travel industry.
- Specialization: Focusing on a niche market to attract clients with specific interests.
- Client-Centric Approach: Understanding clients’ needs and creating customized experiences.
- Online Presence: Establishing a professional online presence to reach a broader audience.
- Leveraging Technology: Utilizing booking software and tools to streamline operations.
- Ethical Practices: Acting ethically and transparently to build trust with clients.
Awards and Recognition
Oceanblue Travels has been recognized for its excellence in the travel industry. Recently, the company received the award for “MOST LUXURIOUS CORPORATE TOUR AND TRAVELS COMPANY IN INDIA” by Brand Empower.
–OCEANBLUE TRAVELS
DHAVAL SHETHWALA / ANKIT MEHTA (Blindwink Awards given by Actress Amrita Rao)
Dhaval Shethwala and Ankit Mehta with Oceanblue Travels and Presha Tours and Travels is a testament to their vision, dedication, and commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences. Despite challenges, their focus on customer satisfaction, continuous improvement, and ethical business practices has set them apart in the travel industry. As they continue to grow and expand, their journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs.
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