Air Canada Vacations celebrated its 50th anniversary in a vibrant event held in Halifax, marking the occasion with the ‘Greatest Celebration’ product launch. The event attracted nearly 400 travel advisors from Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island, each eager to learn about winter offerings from over 60 suppliers present at the gathering.
Halifax Thrives in Celebration
The night kicked off with an energetic trade show that allowed travel advisors to network with representatives from Air Canada Vacations, Air Canada, and various suppliers. A local dance troupe captivated the audience, setting a festive mood for the formal presentations that followed.
Reflections on 50 Years
Nino Montagnese, Vice-President of Sales, reflected on the company’s evolution during an interview with Open Jaw. He emphasized that this milestone is not just about the company’s longevity but also the invaluable partnerships that have developed over the years. “Many of the people attending these shows have been selling Air Canada Vacations for decades,” he noted, highlighting the strength of these connections.
Montagnese shared a blend of humorous and heartfelt anecdotes from his two decades with the company. “Over the years, you collect so many memories — some you laugh at, some you cry over, and a few are probably best not written about,” he joked.
Memories of Resilience
Montagnese recounted challenges faced by the team, including a significant system crash that occurred during a busy Christmas season. “We had to handwrite tickets. I personally delivered group tickets to an agency before heading home. It was chaotic, but it showed the determination of the team,” he reminisced.
He also highlighted emotional connections within the workplace, recalling a recent retirement celebration where he honored a colleague who had served nearly 40 years with the company. “That relationship doesn’t end when the job does. That’s what this industry is about—lifelong connections.”
Travel Advisors Share Insights
Travel advisors at the launch emphasized the importance of strong partnerships in the industry. Tracey MacDonald of Maritime Travel, who consistently attends these events, acknowledged Air Canada Vacations’ responsive nature to agent feedback. “They care about what we think. Together we all win, especially for our clients,” she said.
MacDonald expressed excitement about new seasonal direct services from Halifax to Nassau and Montego Bay, highlighting the growing interest in diverse travel options. “Nassau stands out from other all-inclusive destinations. While it’s slightly pricier, it’s about educating ourselves and our clients on its value,” she added. Moreover, she noted an increasing client appetite for travel to Europe, even during off-peak seasons, tying into broader trends in global tourism.
Innovations and Giveaways
The evening highlighted exclusive updates and new tools for travel advisors, alongside video testimonials that showcased agent appreciation for Air Canada Vacations’ support. The culmination of the event involved various prize giveaways, including an opportunity for three advisors to join the 50th-anniversary celebration in Cancun. Notable suppliers, such as Bahia Principe and Sandals, also contributed exciting prizes, energizing the attendees.
The 50th-anniversary celebration not only paid homage to Air Canada Vacations’ rich history but also underscored the company’s adaptability and strong partnerships. The event took pride in recognizing the community that has supported them throughout their journey, revealing a shared commitment to evolving alongside the travel industry’s needs.
Travel advisors interested in experiencing the excitement firsthand can look forward to more events planned across various cities in Canada. For further registration details, visit:
Edmonton
Vancouver
Montreal
Toronto
