Diamonds are for everyone
Sparkling jewels could earn agents big bucks - but do you know where to shop for rocks?
When Marilyn Monroe declared diamonds to be a girl’s best friend, there can’t have been many women who disagreed.
But these days, diamonds are an agent’s best friend too. The trade is now seeing the potential of selling engagement breaks, with operators such as Leisure Direction leading the way. The operator has teamed up with Diamondland in Antwerp, Belgium, to offer a new engagement package, where couples receive an £80 Diamondland voucher towards their sparkle as part of the deal.
European business manger Richard Gale said: “We’ve been getting more demand for Antwerp - mostly from couples. By putting together these engagement packages, we are doing more for clients than they can do themselves.” Once clients have booked, Leisure Direction makes their appointment at Diamondland and notes down the couple’s requirements - such as price range and cut of the diamond. There will then a selection of stones waiting for the couple on their arrival. Once they’ve chosen the stone and design, it will be made and ready for them to take home at the end of their stay.”
“The benefit of shopping in European destinations such as Brussels and Paris is that prices tend to be a third cheaper because of the relationship between the pound and the euro.” said Gale. “In addition, buying a diamond in Antwerp, means couples are purchasing direct from the buyer. It can mean a saving of up to 40%.”
Antwerp is a livelier version of nearby Bruges, with excellent shopping and restaurant. It has a buzzing nightlife, making it an appealing sell to young couples. In addition, a new high-speed Eurostar train link opening at the end of this year means a reduced journey time from Brussels.
Published in ‘Travelweekly’ - May 2006