Transat hosts Europe training academy in Toronto

“When an agent demystifies Europe, it can open up a range of possibilities,” said Nicole Bursey, commercial director for Transat, at the company’s annual Europe training academy last night (Feb. 11) in Toronto. 

The annual trade show, which was held at the Liberty Grand, welcomed approximately 250 travel agents to mix and mingle with 50 suppliers from Transat’s 2016 Europe program, which launched last month.

Approximately 45 of the suppliers in attendance flew directly in from Europe for the event, which will be travelling to Vancouver this weekend.

“Agents can trust Transat’s Europe program,” said Bursey. “Whether it’s a fully escorted coach tour or if they want to piece together a unique experience for their client, we have it covered.”

On the heels of successful touring services to Prague and Budapest, Transat will be debuting direct routes to Zagreb, Croatia this year. Direct flights to Croatia will depart from Toronto every Tuesday from June 14 to Oct. 4, 2016, with connector flights from Montreal.

“Some of Central Europe’s countries aren’t on the euro. There’s value to that,” said Bursey, commenting on Croatia’s rise in popularity as a tourist destination. “For those who have done a lot of Europe, [Croatia] is the next big thing.”

Agents in attendance were treated to dinner in the Liberty Grand’s ballroom, as well as a presentation on Europe led by Dan Prior, Transat’s sales manager for Ontario and Atlantic Canada, and his team.

Bursey noted that European vacations can ultimately help a travel agency balance its sales throughout the year. 

“If an agent is only focusing on the south, the summer months can sometime be tough,” said Bursey. “By expanding their offerings [with Europe], it really helps give stability to their agency.”

To view Transat’s 2016 Europe brochure visit Transat.com.