Last night, Toronto was aglow with the vibrant atmosphere of a rooftop gathering hosted by Intrepid Travel, showcasing the company’s optimistic perspective on the flourishing Canadian market. Intrepid’s Canadian operations experienced a remarkable 50% year-over-year growth, marking a significant achievement from an already strong foundation. Christian Wolters, President and General Manager of Canada, expressed this sentiment during a discussion with Travelweek, highlighting that there has been an increase in both outbound bookings from Canada and a 37% rise in bookings for domestic travel.
Diving into regional specifics, bookings from Canadians to Eastern Canada witnessed a staggering 152% surge during a June promotional sale offering 20% off on local trips, prompting Intrepid to expand its offerings for fall departures. The company has successfully leveraged marketing efforts across various provinces, including notable campaigns from Newfoundland to Quebec, notably the viral ‘Come Hug it Out’ initiative in Quebec’s Eastern Townships.
This impressive growth stands in stark contrast to the trends observed in the U.S. market, which experienced a decline in bookings after January 20. According to Wolters, while U.S. bookings were robust at the start of the year, uncertainty tied to the political climate has affected American travelers’ confidence in committing to trips. “Travel’s really tied to the economy. When people feel secure, they travel,” he stated, reflecting on how current challenges have impacted consumer behavior.
The post-pandemic travel wave has shifted priorities, with travelers increasingly placing value on experiences rather than material goods. This trend has also shortened the booking window to an average of less than three months. More travelers are recognizing the benefits of off-season travel; November bookings have surged by 62% year-over-year, encompassing both passengers and revenue.
In terms of destinations, Vietnam remains a popular choice among Canadian travelers, gaining traction despite having less visibility in the U.S. market. Cycling trips are also on the rise in Canada, reflecting a growing appetite for immersive and active travel experiences.
Intrepid Day to Celebrate Travel’s Positive Impact
Excitement is building for Intrepid Day on July 24, an upcoming global celebration designed to illustrate how travel can foster positive change. All 31 Intrepid offices will participate in this initiative, culminating in a public event at Sankofa Square in Toronto from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The initiative aims to engage the community with interactive activities, a prize wheel, and hourly trip raffles, all free and open to the public.
Supporting Community Initiatives
On this day, Intrepid will triple all donations made to The Intrepid Foundation, which supports global partners such as Water First in Canada. This initiative aligns with the company’s vision to emphasize sustainable and impactful travel.
TIFF 2025: A Major Partnership Ahead
Intrepid is also geared up for the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), celebrating its 50th anniversary this September (September 4-14). Building on the success of last year, Intrepid plans an extensive activation on the red carpet, ensuring its involvement resonates with festival-goers and reinforces its commitment to community engagement.
For full information about Intrepid Day and its global initiatives, visit Intrepid Travel’s page. As travel continues to evolve, Intrepid Travel is set to lead the charge, blending adventure with responsibility and community-focused endeavors.
