Learning & networking at Virtuoso Canada's three "On Tour" events

News / Travel Agencies & Consortia

04-17-2024 4:28 pm

Pax Global Media

Virtuoso hosted three networking and professional development events this month for its Canadian member agencies, advisors and preferred partners.

Dubbed Virtuoso On Tour Canada, the events kicked off in Montreal on April 4-5 at the Four Seasons Hotel Montréal, continued in Vancouver April 8-9 at the DOUGLAS, an Autograph Collection Hotel, and wrapped at the Shangri-La Toronto April 11-12.

The series brought together a total of 209 advisors and 154 partners, resulting in approximately 13,200 one-on-one connections across the trio of gatherings.

“Virtuoso is delighted to host our On Tour events across Canada,” said Úna O’Leary, Virtuoso’s general manager, Canada, in a release. “The energy and enthusiasm within our network are palpable. We learn from each other, share best practices and strengthen relationships, all aimed at enhancing the experience for the luxury Canadian traveller. When advisors invest in increasing their knowledge of luxury offerings, cultivating valuable relationships and honing their skills, the Canadian traveller reaps the benefits of working with these talented professionals.”

Virtuoso meets at Shangri-La Toronto. (Virtuoso)

Intimate events that allowed for more personal interaction, On Tour Canada featured one-on-one networking appointments, numerous professional development courses and thought-provoking discussions.

The cornerstone of Virtuoso On Tour events is the cultivation of relationships between Virtuoso advisors and preferred partners.

“It’s an absolute pleasure to be invited to these strategic business opportunities to reconnect with supportive and prospective advisors,” said Andrea Mendelsohn, Canada regional sales manager at Windstar Cruises, in a press release. “The calibre of the Virtuoso network is a cut above the rest. The opportunity to meet one-on-one is so valuable, allowing for deeper connections and meaningful discussions compared to the bustling atmosphere of a trade show setting.”

At each event, Virtuoso hosted an Advisor Peer Panel to share best practices and provide insights into running a successful travel advisor business.

Jane Patrick, an adventure travel specialist from North South Travel and Tours in Vancouver, described the process and artistry of crafting personalized journeys.

Virtuoso at the DOUGLAS, an Autograph Collection Hotel, in Vancouver. (James Allen)

“Creating a trip resembles an artist at their easel, carefully composing each stroke to form a masterpiece,” she said. “It involves listening to and understanding clients’ needs, and then curating an experience that brings their vision to life.”

Moreover, advisors cite effective and impactful marketing as an essential component in orchestrating trips of a lifetime.

“Travellers have a deep appreciation for Virtuoso, The Magazine, finding it to be a trusted and valuable resource,” said Diane Bailey, luxury travel specialist at Direct Travel in Georgetown. “They eagerly explore its contents before their travels, finding inspiration within its pages, and then connect with me to transform those inspirations into reality.”

The following trends, insights and observations were revealed during the series of events: