May 3rd marked a thrilling day for travelers as Air Canada inaugurated its new route to Tulum, connecting Toronto’s Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Tulum’s newly opened airport (TQO). This unique airport, situated just 120 km from Cancun (CUN), presents an opportunity for Canadians to experience Tulum beyond its previous status as a day-trip destination from neighboring areas.
A group of 27 travel advisors and two Air Canada Vacations’ Business Development Managers (BDMs) were among the first passengers to enjoy this new route, heading to the “Tulum Deep Dive Immersive Training Experience.” The addition of TQO as a direct flight destination is exclusively offered by Air Canada Vacations, enhancing access to the vibrant sites of Tulum.
Exploring Tulum: A Premier Destination
Tulum, often recognized for its stunning beaches and historic Mayan ruins, is transforming into an enchanting travel destination in its own right. With 36 Air Canada Vacations packages available, visitors can delight in worlds of exceptional resorts, diverse sightseeing, and an array of water sports. Travelers can appreciate Tulum’s famed powdery beige beaches, renowned for their beauty and tranquility.
Year-Round Accessibility: Direct Flights and Convenience
Starting this year, Air Canada will provide year-round service from Toronto every Friday and Sunday, as well as service from Montreal every Saturday, making this magical region more accessible than ever. Special connecting flights from over 60 cities across Canada are available starting at just $59 round trip. Travelers will find that TQO offers a notably shorter transfer time—over 50 minutes saved—when compared to the standard route to Cancun, making it an increasingly convenient option.
The new airport, having opened in December, boasts modern facilities inspired by Mayan architectural elements, ensuring a smooth experience from landing to departure.
Activities and Attractions in Tulum
While exploring Tulum, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich culture through the renowned Mayan ruins or enjoy the bohemian vibe of the local shops and restaurants. Tulum is often compared to Playa del Carmen of two decades ago, preserving a unique charm that is becoming increasingly popular. Bicycles are a favored mode of transportation due to the region’s flat landscape, allowing for easy exploration.
Outdoor enthusiasts can partake in various activities, such as ziplining and golfing, while the tranquil cenotes—freshwater sinkhole caves—invite swimming and scuba diving adventures.
Luxurious Accommodations for Every Preference
The travel advisors enjoyed their stay at the luxurious Secrets Tulum & Beach Club, featuring 300 adults-only rooms complemented by five pools and three dining options. Although the resort is not beachfront, guests appreciate access to a private beach club, only a short shuttle ride away, ensuring a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation.
Site inspections conducted by the travel advisors revealed diverse accommodation options in Tulum, ranging from sizeable all-inclusive resorts to charming boutique hotels. Options such as the Motto by Hilton offer a modern, stylish atmosphere, while wellness-focused options like Be Tulum & Nomade Tulum cater to those seeking tranquility and adventure in nature.
Highlights from Air Canada Vacations
Air Canada Vacations continues to enhance travel experiences, providing QR codes for each property that offer vital information, including local contacts and transfer schedules. This innovation ensures convenience for travelers, allowing them to access important details right at their fingertips—though guest services are also available for those who prefer traditional methods.
BDMs Dianne Pedroso and Clementina Iannuzzi provided invaluable insights into the extensive offerings from Air Canada Vacations, while Brian Joseph from Hyatt educated attendees about the diverse World of Hyatt portfolio, showcasing 10 distinct all-inclusive resort brands, including Secrets. Together, they emphasized the importance of travel agents’ feedback in expanding destination options for clients.
Air Canada Vacations remains committed to innovation and enhancing traveler experiences, and with new routes and destinations emerging, the allure of Tulum continues to grow.
