TORONTO — This week, 5Continents launched an invigorating roadshow across Ontario, spotlighting the theme “5 Cities – 5 Partners – 5 Destinations.” The initiative aims to empower travel advisors through a comprehensive training series that runs from November 25 to 27. Events are scheduled in St. Catharines, Oakville, Kitchener, Vaughan, and Whitby, providing an array of learning and networking opportunities.
Key representatives from top international destinations including Croatia, Malta, Dubai, Scandinavia, and Turkiye shared insider tips and insights aimed at enhancing advisors’ product knowledge for both FIT (Free Independent Traveler) and group bookings.
The event also serves as a valuable platform for networking among advisors, encouraging collaboration and the exchange of ideas. David Boigné, the founder of 5Continents, shared insights during the gathering at the Sheridan Conference Centre in Oakville. He emphasized the impressive growth that the company has experienced since its inception in 2017, even navigating the hurdles posed by the pandemic.
Currently, 5Continents employs around 20 staff members in Canada, alongside a support team in their global offices. Boigné mentioned that the company is looking to bolster its workforce, aiming to hire more staff proficient in both English and French. He anticipates that approximately 300 advisors will participate across the roadshow’s five stops—a remarkable turnout for a company still blossoming after its challenging start.
“We are gaining traction in almost everything we do,” Boigné remarked, highlighting a staggering 77% increase in sales so far this year, which bodes well for the company’s future.
Understanding the 5Continents Approach
5Continents stands out in the travel industry primarily because of its decentralized structure. “We have people scattered across the country and abroad,” Boigné explained, stressing the flexibility and work-life balance this setup offers. Without a traditional physical office, team members thrive in a more connected yet autonomous environment, leading to greater employee satisfaction and engagement.
The company prides itself on its “human touch” and the ease of doing business. “We have minimal processes, and we work collaboratively to resolve issues,” Boigné stated, defining the essence of their service philosophy.
Tailor-Made Itineraries without Boundaries
Unlike many competitors, 5Continents offers unlimited possibilities for tailor-made itineraries. “We don’t have a limit to bespoke itineraries,” Boigné asserted. Their vast global connections allow them to create unique niche travel experiences. “We love it when we create something out-of-the-box that we haven’t done before. It’s almost a challenge – and it’s rewarding when it comes to fruition,” he added.
Rita Puglisi from Luxe Destination Weddings in Toronto has been working with 5Continents for two years and expressed a positive experience. “They know exactly what I’m looking for and accept any requests, from budget to high-end. There’s a lot of flexibility. It’s not a cookie-cutter approach,” she noted.
As 5Continents continues to evolve, their commitment to personalized service and innovative travel solutions remains at the forefront, ensuring that advisors and travelers alike have access to enriching travel experiences that are tailored to their unique needs.
