One hundred Canadian travel advisors and agents have converged in León, located in northwestern Spain, to attend the ACTA International Destination Conference aimed at uncovering Spain’s lesser-known destinations. The conference commenced on October 28 with an array of speeches and panels focused on enhancing travel strategies.
ACTA President Suzanne Acton-Gervais emphasized during her trilingual address, “This week is about you. It’s about strengthening our networks, discovering new opportunities, and showcasing the power of Canada’s travel advisor community.” Current trends show that most ACTA members report moderate growth in their practices. Acton-Gervais stated, “Looking ahead to 2026, the trend is clear — Canadians are traveling. They are not staying home.” Popular travel patterns reflect that Canadians are venturing further afield and extending their stays.
Highlighting the crucial role of travel advisors, she reassured attendees, “Make no mistake — AI will not replace you. It is the human connection that drives our industry.” Dates for upcoming ACTA summits were also announced: September 10 in Eastern Canada, September 17 in Quebec, and October 1 in Western Canada.
Acton-Gervais reiterated ACTA’s mission: “We advocate, we educate, we promote, and we connect,” stressing the importance of these roles in empowering members to refine their skills and grow their businesses. Chris MacLellan, an agent from Edmonton with Trevello Travel Group, endorsed ACTA’s commitment to lifelong learning, stating, “The more you know, the better you are at your trade.” He expressed interest in promoting the interior of Spain, particularly to enhance his cruise offerings.
Kumudu Walisundara of Expedia Cruises Brampton noted how personal experiences enrich her client interactions, saying, “The more I experience, the more I can share unique stories.” She highlighted that clients appreciate exclusive insights into travel destinations.
Brampton’s Veronica Van Cooten, new to the travel industry, expressed the critical importance of networking at events like this, stating that “meeting agents and learning” is invaluable for her professional growth. Sheila Aue from Trevello mentioned her newfound interest in León, sharing, “People are always looking for off-the-beaten-path destinations.” Her previous immersion in the Azores has enhanced her appreciation for culturally rich experiences.
Isabel Martín Benítez, Spain’s Consul for Tourism Affairs in Toronto, presented information about the ten direct routes connecting Spain and Canadian cities. She highlighted that Canadian travelers seek culture, gastronomy, and excellent weather, all of which Spain offers abundantly.
The agenda included discussions about Spain’s historic paradores (state-run hotels), its 15 UNESCO World Heritage sites, and the user-friendly RENFE railway system. Conference delegates experienced a swift train journey from Madrid to León, covering the distance of what would usually take 3.5 hours in just two hours.
Spain attracts approximately 100 million visitors annually, including 650,000 Canadians who now average stay durations that have increased from seven to nine days. Delegates from ACTA, tourism officials, and partners totaled 125 attendees at this enriching event, which continues on October 29 with additional panels, workshops, and a marketplace.
During the conference, attendees will explore León, renowned for Antoni Gaudí’s Casa Botines and the French Way of the St. James pilgrimage route. They will also savor regional delicacies and wines before concluding their journey on November 1.
