Forestgatetravel.co.uk Reviews

Based on looking at the website, Forestgatetravel.co.uk appears to be an online travel agency specializing in flights and holiday packages, particularly to destinations in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

While it offers convenient booking options and a range of deals, the concept of extensive, often unnecessary, travel for leisure or entertainment purposes, particularly when it leads to excessive spending or neglect of responsibilities, can be a point of consideration from an Islamic perspective.

We are encouraged to be mindful of our resources and time, ensuring they are spent in ways that bring true benefit and do not lead to extravagance or heedlessness.

Instead of constant travel for entertainment, one might consider local engagements, community service, or spending quality time with family, which often provide more lasting and meaningful experiences. Lysisparis.com Reviews

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Forestgatetravel.co.uk: A First Look at Their Offerings

Forestgatetravel.co.uk presents itself as a travel agency focused on delivering competitive prices for flights and package holidays.

Established in 2015, the company aims to offer a broad spectrum of travel options, ranging from specific flight deals to curated holiday packages. 1oakcare.com Reviews

Website Navigation and User Experience

The website’s layout is straightforward, with clear sections for flight deals, holiday packages, and contact information.

• Ease of Use: The primary navigation is intuitive, allowing users to quickly search for flights or explore featured holiday deals.
• Information Accessibility: Key details like contact numbers, email, and physical address are readily available, fostering a sense of transparency.
• Design Aesthetics: While functional, the design is relatively basic, prioritizing information display over elaborate visual elements.

Featured Destinations and Deals

The site highlights specific flight deals and holiday packages to various global locations.

• Flight Focus: A significant portion of the homepage is dedicated to displaying “Cheap Flights deals” to major cities across Africa Accra, Addis Ababa, Entebbe, Kigali, Kinshasa, Lagos, Nairobi, Asia Beijing, Delhi, Dhaka, Bangkok, Islamabad, Karachi, Manila, the Middle East Abu Dhabi, Doha, Dubai, Jeddah, Kuwait, Tehran, Baghdad, and the Americas Antigua, Barbados, Kingston, Los Angeles, New York, Miami, St. Lucia.
• Holiday Packages: The “Best Holidays Deals” section includes trips to Malta, Spain, Turkey, and Santorini, often specifying the number of nights and a “per person” price.
• Africa Packages: A dedicated section showcases packages to Marrakech, Hurghada, Cape Verde, and Tunisia, indicating a specialized focus on African destinations.

Company Background and Customer Service

Forestgatetravel.co.uk emphasizes its commitment to customer satisfaction and service.

• Establishment: The company states it was established in 2015, indicating nearly a decade of operation in the travel industry.
• Customer Support: They claim to have “well-qualified customer service agents available 7 days a week on multiple platforms: telephone, Whatsapp, and email.” This multi-channel support is a positive indicator for customer assistance.
• After-Sales Service: A notable claim is their commitment to “after-sale services,” pledging to “stand by you until you back home safely.” This suggests a focus beyond just booking, aiming for comprehensive support.

Understanding Forestgatetravel.co.uk’s Business Model

Forestgatetravel.co.uk operates as an online travel agency OTA facilitating bookings for flights and package holidays.

Their model appears to revolve around securing competitive rates from airlines and accommodation providers, then packaging these for sale to consumers. Tranglo.com Reviews

Revenue Streams

Their primary revenue sources are likely commissions and markups on bookings.

• Flight Commissions: OTAs typically earn a percentage commission from airlines for each ticket sold through their platform.
• Package Markups: For holiday packages, they would bundle flights, hotels, and sometimes activities, applying a markup on the wholesale cost to generate profit.
• Ancillary Services: While not explicitly detailed on the homepage, OTAs often earn from add-on services like travel insurance, car rentals, or tour bookings.

Operational Reach

The company appears to serve a global clientele, with a strong focus on specific regions.

• UK Base: Being “Forest Gate London” suggests a primary operational base in the UK, catering to travelers departing from the UK.
• Diverse Destinations: The wide array of listed destinations — spanning Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas — indicates an ambition for broad international reach.
• Target Market: The prevalence of flights to African and Middle Eastern destinations suggests a significant portion of their clientele might be from diaspora communities or those with specific interests in these regions.

Payment Methods Accepted

The website lists various payment options, aiming for customer convenience.

• Traditional Methods: They accept “Cash” and “Bank Transfer,” which can be appealing for customers preferring direct transactions.
• Digital Wallets: “PayPal” is a widely recognized and secure online payment gateway.
• Card Payments: “All Major Cards Accepted” implies compatibility with credit and debit cards from networks like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. This diversity is crucial for modern online transactions.

Forestgatetravel.co.uk Pros & Cons

Evaluating any service requires looking at its strengths and weaknesses.

For Forestgatetravel.co.uk, based on the provided homepage text, we can identify several points. Viggo.dk Reviews

Advantages of Forestgatetravel.co.uk

The website highlights several potential benefits for its users.

• Competitive Pricing: The repeated emphasis on “Cheap Flights deals” and “competitive prices” is a significant draw for budget-conscious travelers. For example, flights to Baghdad from £370 and Dubai from £395 suggest a focus on affordability.
• Diverse Destination Portfolio: Offering flights and packages to a wide range of global destinations, from major hubs like New York £415 to specific African cities, caters to varied travel interests.
• Multi-channel Customer Support: The availability of customer service via telephone, WhatsApp, and email, 7 days a week, is a strong point, ensuring accessibility for inquiries and support.
• After-Sales Service Commitment: The pledge to “stand by you until you back home safely” suggests a commitment to customer care that extends beyond the booking process. This can provide peace of mind for travelers.
• Established Presence: Being established since 2015 suggests a degree of stability and experience in the travel industry.
• Flexible Payment Options: Accepting cash, bank transfer, PayPal, and major cards caters to a wide array of customer preferences, including those who may not prefer traditional online card payments.
• Specialized Packages: The explicit mention of “Religious Tours” indicates an understanding of niche market demands, providing tailored travel options for specific needs.

Potential Areas for Improvement

While the website presents a positive image, some aspects could be enhanced or require further investigation.

• Limited Online Reviews Visibility: While the site mentions “Read Our Reviews,” direct links or integrated review platforms are not immediately visible on the homepage. This can make it harder for new customers to verify customer satisfaction quickly.
• Website Design and Modernity: The design, while functional, might not be as visually appealing or feature-rich as some larger, more established travel portals. A more modern interface could enhance user experience.
• Lack of Detailed Itineraries/Features for Packages: The brief descriptions for holiday deals e.g., “Malta 5 Nights” lack detailed information about what’s included beyond the price and duration, such as hotels, specific activities, or meal plans. This could lead to a lack of clarity for potential customers.
• Absence of Online Booking Engine Preview: The homepage doesn’t showcase an interactive flight or package search engine, which is a standard feature on most online travel agency websites. This could make the booking process seem less transparent without actually navigating to a search page.
• Limited Transparency on Fees/Taxes Upfront: While some prices mention “inclusive of tax,” it’s not consistently clear for all deals, and hidden fees are a common concern in online travel bookings.
• No Clear Refund or Cancellation Policies: Details regarding terms and conditions, especially cancellation and refund policies, are not highlighted on the homepage. While a “Terms and Conditions” link exists, easy access to this information is crucial.

Ethical Travel: Alternatives to Constant Leisure Travel

While travel can broaden horizons, constant leisure travel, particularly when driven by excessive spending or a focus on temporary pleasure over long-term benefit, can be viewed with caution.

It’s vital to consider alternatives that offer deeper, more sustainable forms of engagement and personal development.

Promoting Local Engagement and Community Service

Instead of always seeking distant destinations for leisure, consider enriching experiences closer to home. Tshirtbar.se Reviews

• Community Volunteering: Dedicate time and resources to local charities, community projects, or initiatives. For example, the National Council for Voluntary Organisations NCVO in the UK reports that volunteering contributes £14.4 billion to the UK economy annually, showcasing its significant impact. This offers a chance to build connections and contribute positively to society.
• Supporting Local Businesses: Explore local artisans, farmers’ markets, and independent shops. This not only bolsters the local economy but also provides unique experiences and fosters a sense of community belonging.
• Nature Appreciation: Spend time in local parks, nature reserves, or undertake walking trails. This can provide mental and physical benefits without the environmental impact or cost of long-distance travel. The UK National Parks attract over 100 million visitors annually, highlighting the value of local natural beauty.

Investing in Knowledge and Skill Development

Redirecting resources from frequent leisure travel towards education and personal growth can yield significant, lasting rewards.

• Online Courses and Workshops: Invest in platforms like Coursera, edX, or even local community college courses. For example, a 2023 study by Statista indicated that the global e-learning market size is projected to reach $400 billion by 2026, underscoring the vast opportunities for online learning.
• Reading and Research: Build a personal library, subscribe to academic journals, or engage with in-depth non-fiction. This cultivates intellectual curiosity and knowledge, providing a mental journey that can be just as fulfilling as physical travel.
• Learning a New Skill: Take up a new language, a podcastal instrument, coding, or a practical craft. This enhances personal capabilities and opens new avenues for engagement. For instance, Duolingo, a popular language learning app, boasts over 500 million registered users, indicating a widespread interest in skill acquisition.

Fostering Family Bonds and Responsible Living

Prioritizing family and responsible consumption can lead to more meaningful outcomes than constant travel.

• Quality Time with Family: Organize family activities, spend unhurried time together, and engage in meaningful conversations. Studies by the Journal of Marriage and Family consistently show a strong correlation between quality family time and higher levels of well-being and resilience in individuals.
• Sustainable Practices: Focus on reducing waste, conserving energy, and making ethical consumption choices. This includes reducing carbon footprints often associated with extensive air travel. Data from the Environmental Protection Agency EPA indicates that transportation accounts for 29% of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, making conscious travel choices impactful.
• Mindful Living: Cultivate gratitude, mindfulness, and a deeper connection to one’s spiritual self. This inner journey can bring profound peace and contentment, often surpassing the temporary highs of external exploration. For example, various global surveys consistently report that individuals who practice gratitude often experience higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction.

Forestgatetravel.co.uk Pricing Structure and Payment

Forestgatetravel.co.uk’s pricing strategy, as indicated by the homepage, centers on offering “cheap deals” and inclusive pricing for many of its listed offers.

Understanding how they present their prices and the payment methods they accept is crucial for potential customers.

Flight Pricing Examples

The website provides specific flight prices to various destinations, generally stated as “from” a certain amount and “inclusive of tax.” Winnyskitchen.com Reviews

• Africa Destinations:
  • Accra from £720
  • Addis Ababa from £590
  • Entebbe from £528
  • Lagos from £620
  • Nairobi from £540
• Asia Destinations:
  • Beijing from £560
  • Delhi from £520
  • Karachi from £495
  • Manila from £515
• Middle East Destinations:
  • Abu Dhabi from £455
  • Dubai from £395
  • Jeddah from £528
  • Baghdad from £370
• Americas Destinations:
  • New York from £415
  • Los Angeles from £495
  • Miami from £415

Holiday Package Pricing Examples

Similarly, holiday packages are presented with a “per person” price, often inclusive of tax.

• Trip to Malta: 5 Nights, from £455 Per Person inclusive of tax
• Trip to Spain: 7 Nights, from £555 Per Person inclusive of tax
• Trip to Turkey: 7 Nights, from £455 Per Person inclusive of tax
• Trip to Santorini: 7 Nights, from £495 Per Person inclusive of tax
• Africa Packages:
  • Marrakech 5 Night Package from £255 Per Person
  • Hurghada 5 Nights £275 Per Person
  • Tunisia 6 Nights £295 Per Person

Accepted Payment Methods

Forestgatetravel.co.uk offers a range of payment options to accommodate different customer preferences, ensuring accessibility for various users.

• Cash: This traditional method might appeal to customers who prefer direct, in-person transactions or are hesitant about online payments.
• Bank Transfer: Another direct payment option, bank transfers are common for larger sums and offer a clear paper trail.
• PayPal: A widely used and secure online payment platform that allows users to pay without directly sharing card details with the merchant. PayPal processed $1.53 trillion in total payment volume in 2023, demonstrating its widespread adoption and trustworthiness.
• All Major Cards Accepted: This includes popular credit and debit card networks such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and potentially others. Accepting major cards is standard for online businesses and offers convenience and often buyer protection. Globally, credit and debit cards account for over 50% of all e-commerce transactions, underscoring their importance in online retail.

Forestgatetravel.co.uk vs. Other Travel Agencies

When considering a travel booking, it’s natural to compare Forestgatetravel.co.uk with other players in the market, from large global Online Travel Agencies OTAs to smaller, specialized local operators.

Comparing with Large OTAs e.g., Skyscanner, Expedia, Booking.com

Large OTAs offer a vast inventory and advanced technological infrastructure.

• Inventory Size: Major players like Expedia or Booking.com typically have access to millions of flights and hotels globally, far exceeding the specialized focus of Forestgatetravel.co.uk. For instance, Expedia Group’s network includes over 3 million properties and 500+ airlines.
• Technology and User Experience: These platforms often invest heavily in sophisticated search algorithms, AI-driven recommendations, and highly polished user interfaces. Forestgatetravel.co.uk’s interface is more basic.
• Global Recognition and Trust: Brands like Skyscanner or Kayak are household names, offering a strong sense of security and reliability due to their extensive marketing and long-standing presence.
• Customer Support Model: While large OTAs offer 24/7 support, it can sometimes be less personalized due to high volume. Forestgatetravel.co.co.uk emphasizes a more personal, after-sales service.
• Price Comparison: While large OTAs are known for price comparison tools, smaller agencies like Forestgatetravel.co.uk might secure exclusive deals for specific routes or packages, especially if they have direct relationships with certain airlines or hotel chains, leading to competitive pricing in niche areas.

Comparing with Niche or Local Travel Agencies

Forestgatetravel.co.uk likely falls into a category closer to specialized or local agencies. Vastlog.com Reviews

• Personalized Service: Smaller agencies often pride themselves on offering more personalized service, understanding client needs in detail, and providing tailored recommendations. Forestgatetravel.co.uk’s emphasis on “after sale services” and being available “7 days a week on multiple platforms” suggests this approach.
• Specialization: Forestgatetravel.co.uk’s focus on African and Middle Eastern destinations, along with “Religious Tours,” indicates a level of specialization that larger, more generalized OTAs might not offer in as much depth. For example, a niche agency might have deeper knowledge of local customs, visa requirements, or specific types of accommodation in a particular region.
• Direct Relationships: Smaller agencies might have direct, long-standing relationships with certain airlines or ground operators, potentially allowing them to secure unique group rates or exclusive offers not widely available elsewhere.
• Trust in Community: For many, a local or specialized agency might build trust through word-of-mouth within specific communities, which can be a powerful factor in booking decisions.

How to Engage with Forestgatetravel.co.uk

For those considering Forestgatetravel.co.uk for their travel needs, understanding the typical engagement process, from initial inquiry to booking, is important.

Initial Inquiry and Contact

The website provides several channels for prospective customers to get in touch.

• Telephone: Multiple phone numbers are listed, including a main office number +44 203 870 7070 and mobile contacts +44 792 665 6585, +44 7931707712. This allows for direct conversation and immediate assistance.
• Email: The email address [email protected] is provided for written inquiries, which is useful for detailed questions or sending documents.
• WhatsApp: The availability of a WhatsApp contact +44 787 831 4948 caters to modern communication preferences, allowing for quick messaging and document sharing. A 2023 report by Statista indicated that WhatsApp has over 2 billion monthly active users, highlighting its global reach and convenience for customer service.
• Physical Address: The presence of a physical address 52 Woodgrange Road Forest Gate London, E7 0QH, United Kingdom suggests the option for in-person visits, which can build trust and allow for face-to-face consultation.

Booking Process

While the website doesn’t show an interactive booking engine on the homepage, the process likely involves direct communication after an initial inquiry.

• Quotation Request: Customers would likely contact Forestgatetravel.co.uk with their travel requirements destination, dates, number of travelers to receive a customized quote.
• Customization and Negotiation: The agents would then work with the customer to refine the itinerary, suggest options, and finalize pricing.
• Payment and Confirmation: Once the itinerary and price are agreed upon, payment would be processed using one of the accepted methods cash, bank transfer, PayPal, major cards. Following successful payment, confirmation documents e-tickets, hotel vouchers would be issued.

After-Sales Support

Forestgatetravel.co.uk emphasizes its commitment to supporting customers post-booking.

• Pre-Departure Assistance: This could include providing information on visa requirements, travel insurance, baggage allowances, or recommended packing.
• During Travel Support: The promise to “stand by you until you back home safely” suggests they would be available for assistance with any issues encountered during the trip, such as flight delays, cancellations, or hotel problems.
• Post-Travel Follow-up: While not explicitly stated, good after-sales service often includes a follow-up after the trip to gather feedback and address any remaining concerns.

How to Cancel Forestgatetravel.co.uk Bookings or Inquiries

Cancelling travel bookings can often be complex, with varying policies depending on the service provider and the terms of the specific booking. Shdentistry.co.uk Reviews

While Forestgatetravel.co.uk’s homepage doesn’t detail its cancellation policy, general practices apply, and contacting them directly is the primary step.

Understanding Cancellation Policies

Cancellation terms are typically outlined in the “Terms and Conditions” section, which is linked on the website.

• Read the Fine Print: Before making any booking, it’s crucial to review the specific cancellation and refund policies associated with the flight, hotel, or package. These vary widely and can include non-refundable tickets, cancellation fees, or partial refunds. According to a 2022 survey by NerdWallet, over 70% of travelers have encountered issues with cancellations or changes to their travel plans, highlighting the importance of understanding these policies upfront.
• Airline and Hotel Policies: The underlying policies of the airlines and hotels booked through Forestgatetravel.co.uk will largely dictate the cancellation terms. The agency acts as an intermediary, and their own policies will complement or be bound by these supplier terms.
• Force Majeure Clauses: In unforeseen circumstances e.g., natural disasters, pandemics, some policies may include force majeure clauses that allow for more lenient cancellation terms.

Steps to Cancel a Booking

The most direct and effective way to cancel a booking made through Forestgatetravel.co.uk is to contact their customer service.

1. Gather Booking Information: Have your booking reference number, passenger names, dates, and any other relevant details readily available.
2. Contact Customer Service: Reach out via their stated channels:
   • Telephone: Use the provided numbers +44 203 870 7070, +44 792 665 6585, +44 7931707712. This is often the quickest method for immediate assistance.
   • WhatsApp: Send a message to +44 787 831 4948 for a written record of your request.
   • Email: Send a formal cancellation request to [email protected]. This provides a clear, documented request.
3. State Your Request Clearly: Explicitly state that you wish to cancel your booking and provide all necessary details.
4. Inquire About Refunds/Fees: Ask about any applicable cancellation fees, refund amounts, and the expected timeline for processing. According to a report by the U.S. Department of Transportation, airlines are required to provide refunds within 7 business days for credit card purchases and 20 business days for cash or check purchases in specific circumstances.
5. Obtain Confirmation: Request written confirmation of your cancellation from Forestgatetravel.co.uk. This is crucial for your records in case of any future disputes.

Cancelling Inquiries

If you have only made an inquiry and not a confirmed booking with payment, there is no formal “cancellation” needed.

You can simply inform them that you no longer wish to proceed or simply cease communication. Usinfobiz.com Reviews

However, it’s good practice to send a brief email or message to let them know if they have invested time in preparing a quote for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Forestgatetravel.co.uk?

Forestgatetravel.co.uk is an online travel agency OTA based in the UK that offers flights and holiday packages to various international destinations, with a notable focus on Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. It was established in 2015.

What types of travel deals does Forestgatetravel.co.uk offer?

Forestgatetravel.co.uk offers cheap flight deals to numerous cities worldwide, as well as package holidays to destinations like Malta, Spain, Turkey, Santorini, and specific African locations such as Marrakech, Hurghada, and Cape Verde. They also mention “Religious Tours.”

Where is Forestgatetravel.co.uk located?

Forestgatetravel.co.uk is located at 52 Woodgrange Road, Forest Gate, London, E7 0QH, United Kingdom.

How can I contact Forestgatetravel.co.uk customer service?

You can contact Forestgatetravel.co.uk customer service via telephone +44 203 870 7070, +44 792 665 6585, +44 7931707712, email [email protected], or WhatsApp +44 787 831 4948. They claim to be available 7 days a week. Ezydog.com.au Reviews

What payment methods does Forestgatetravel.co.uk accept?

Forestgatetravel.co.uk accepts cash, bank transfer, PayPal, and all major credit and debit cards.

Does Forestgatetravel.co.uk offer personalized travel services?

Yes, based on their emphasis on “after sale services” and their customer support availability, it suggests they aim to provide personalized assistance to travelers until they return home safely.

Are the prices on Forestgatetravel.co.uk inclusive of taxes?

Many of the flight and holiday package prices listed on the homepage are stated as “inclusive of tax.” However, it’s always advisable to confirm the final price during the booking process to ensure no hidden fees.

Does Forestgatetravel.co.uk offer last-minute deals?

The homepage highlights “Cheap Flights deals” and “Best Holidays Deals,” which often include competitive prices, but it doesn’t explicitly mention “last-minute” specific categories. It’s best to inquire directly for such offers.

Can I book a specific type of holiday, like a religious tour, through Forestgatetravel.co.uk?

Yes, the website explicitly lists “Religious Tours” as one of its services, indicating they cater to such specialized travel needs. Bensonburrell.com Reviews

How long has Forestgatetravel.co.uk been in business?

Forestgatetravel.co.uk was established in 2015, meaning they have been operating in the travel industry for nearly a decade.

What are some top destinations offered by Forestgatetravel.co.uk?

Top flight destinations include Accra, Lagos, Nairobi, Dubai, Delhi, New York, and Los Angeles.

Holiday packages highlight Malta, Spain, Turkey, Santorini, and several African locations.

Is Forestgatetravel.co.uk ATOL protected?

The website does not explicitly state ATOL protection on its homepage.

For UK-based travel agencies offering package holidays, ATOL protection is crucial for consumer financial protection. Waw-racing.club Reviews

It is highly recommended to verify their ATOL status before booking.

You can check the ATOL database on the Civil Aviation Authority CAA website.

Can I refer friends to Forestgatetravel.co.uk for savings?

Yes, the website mentions, “Enjoy savings when you refer friends for your next adventure,” indicating a referral program.

You would need to contact them for details on how this program works.

Does Forestgatetravel.co.uk have an online booking system?

While the homepage displays deals, it doesn’t explicitly show a live online booking search engine. Ffleaf.com Reviews

It suggests an inquiry-based booking process, though they may have a booking portal accessible after an initial contact.

What should I do if I need to cancel a booking with Forestgatetravel.co.uk?

You should contact Forestgatetravel.co.uk customer service directly via phone, WhatsApp, or email to inquire about their cancellation policy and to initiate the cancellation process. Be sure to have your booking details ready.

Are there any alternatives to constant leisure travel for personal development?

Yes, instead of constant leisure travel, consider investing in local community service, learning new skills through online courses, dedicating time to reading and research, fostering stronger family bonds, and practicing sustainable and mindful living.

What is the advantage of using a specialized travel agency like Forestgatetravel.co.uk?

Specialized agencies often offer more personalized service, deeper expertise in specific regions or types of travel e.g., Africa, Religious Tours, and potentially exclusive deals or direct relationships with suppliers that larger OTAs might not have.

Does Forestgatetravel.co.uk offer advice on visas or travel requirements?

While not explicitly stated on the homepage, a full-service travel agency typically provides guidance on visas, health requirements, and other travel necessities. I-am-autism.org.uk Reviews

It’s best to confirm this with their customer service during your inquiry.

How does Forestgatetravel.co.uk ensure customer satisfaction?

They state that they are “always keen to provide excellent services with competitive prices” and have “well-qualified customer service agents available 7 days a week.” They also emphasize “after sale services” and their commitment to support travelers until they return home safely.

Is it possible to visit Forestgatetravel.co.uk in person?

Yes, as a physical address 52 Woodgrange Road, Forest Gate, London, E7 0QH, United Kingdom is provided, it suggests that in-person visits may be possible, likely during business hours.