Together, with our dedicated and passionate team, we are poised to write the next chapters of this remarkable family adventure, remaining faithful to our enduring values: quality, authenticity, and client satisfaction.
SUD EVASION plans to launch a new range of trips: 'LONGE CÔTE Trips'. These stays, focused on aquatic walking along the seaside, continue our hiking and Nordic walking offerings while adding a touch of originality. Furthermore, the agency intends to introduce immersive experiences with video reports on each destination, allowing clients to enjoy unique moments and create unforgettable memories. This initiative reflects SUD EVASION's commitment to staying at the forefront of tourism trends and continuing to innovate.
In October 2023, after more than 34 years of a distinguished career, Michel and Chantal GIROTTO retired. They passed the torch to their son Tristan, who officially took the helm of SUD EVASION. Under his leadership, the agency is poised to write a new chapter in its history, remaining faithful to the core values that have always guided the company: quality, authenticity, and customer satisfaction.
The year 2020 was marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely disrupted the tourism sector. Despite the challenges posed by successive lockdowns and travel restrictions, SUD EVASION managed to maintain a portion of its operations. Loyal to the agency, many hikers continued to travel as soon as conditions permitted. Trips organized in less crowded hotels and on secluded paths offered these clients memorable experiences. This difficult period underscored the agency's resilience and the loyalty of its clientele, for which Chantal, Michel, and their team extend their heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering support.
In 2016, Alexandre, Chantal and Michel's youngest son, joined SUD EVASION as part of his business studies. His arrival brought a fresh perspective to the agency. Alexandre, leveraging his training and modern business vision, introduced 'NORDIC WALKING TRIPS,' thereby expanding SUD EVASION's offerings. This new specialization enabled the agency to reach an even broader audience while addressing emerging trends in active tourism.
In 2015, SUD EVASION continued to strengthen its presence in the hiking market by participating in the Paris Hiking Fair. This participation marked a significant milestone in the agency's development within the Parisian region. To make a lasting impression and foster closer relationships with group leaders, SUD EVASION organized convivial and intimate luncheons. This personalized approach enabled the agency to enhance its reputation and establish itself as a leading authority in the field of hiking.
In 2009, SUD EVASION innovated by launching 'HIKING TRIPS,' thereby addressing a growing demand for active getaways. Despite a challenging economic climate, this new offering achieved immediate success. Thanks to their profound understanding of client expectations, Chantal and Michel successfully established SUD EVASION as a national leader in group hiking tours. This achievement enabled the agency to further diversify and secure its position in a burgeoning market.
In September 2005, Tristan GIROTTO, Chantal and Michel's eldest son, joined the family business as part of his BTS Tourism studies. Having grown up immersed in his parents' work, Tristan had harbored the ambition to eventually take over SUD EVASION since childhood. His arrival marked the dawn of a new era for the agency, as he prepared to ensure its continuity and introduce innovative ideas.
In 2003, Chantal and Michel GIROTTO made a strategic decision by selling their coach company, PROVENCE EVASION. This choice enabled them to fully concentrate on the development of SUD EVASION, expanding their clientele nationwide. Although no longer owning their coach fleet, they continued to charter vehicles based on their clients' specific needs, while simultaneously exploring new growth opportunities for their travel agency.
Beginning in 1998, SUD EVASION expanded its offerings by introducing river cruises, a novel way to explore prestigious destinations. For a decade, from 1998 to 2008, the agency chartered cruises on iconic rivers such as the Rhône, Rhine, Danube, and Douro. These cruises achieved significant success, providing clients with a unique travel experience and establishing SUD EVASION as a prominent player in river tourism across France and Europe.
In 1994, SUD EVASION diversified by organizing its inaugural cabaret show, titled 'Folies Parisiennes.' This production, a bold venture for the agency, proved to be a spectacular success, drawing 1800 attendees in just two days. Building on this triumph, SUD EVASION continued to host similar events, which rapidly became highly anticipated occasions for entertainment enthusiasts, thereby solidifying the company's reputation.
Three years after its inception, SUD EVASION continued its expansion by launching a dedicated 'Groups' service. This new department specializes in organizing tailor-made trips for associations and works councils. Through this initiative, the agency strengthened its position in the group tourism market, addressing a growing demand for personalized travel experiences.
In October 1989, merely months after the establishment of PROVENCE EVASION, the company took a significant step by acquiring premises in the city center. This strategic investment enabled the company to structure its operations and foster closer relationships with its clients. It was at this juncture that the company adopted the name SUD EVASION, reflecting an expanded ambition: to offer individual trips in addition to coach excursions, thereby diversifying its services.
In March 1989, Chantal and Michel GIROTTO embarked on an entrepreneurial venture by establishing PROVENCE EVASION. Michel, then an accountant at a coach company, harbored a deep passion for the world of travel. With Chantal's unwavering support, they acquired their first luxury coach. This vehicle marked the inception of their company, specializing in coach tours and excursions.
As seen in the media:
Coach operator from 1989 to 2002:
Our Tourism brochures since 1993:
Our Hiking brochures since 2012:
