Visit Portugal expands travel trade outreach in Canada

Through a release from the destination (Sep. 28), Visit Portugal says it is stepping up its engagement with the Canadian market this fall through travel trade initiatives, partnerships, and expanded communications support. 

With increased airlift, the destination said it is working with industry partners to build demand for the winter and spring seasons and encourage Canadians to explore more of Portugal year-round.

Visit Portugal says two specialist agencies are supporting this effort, working under Inês Almeida Garrett, its Country Director for Canada.

Global Marketing & Sales (GMS) continues to lead travel trade representation, working with advisors, tour operators, airlines and industry associations, while VoX International (VoX) leads the destination’s strategy, media relations and communications initiatives. 

READ MORE: VoX International now represents Visit Portugal in Canada

“Our travel trade partners are central to Portugal’s success in Canada. Their expertise, enthusiasm and continued support help turn interest in our destination into travel,” said Garrett.

“With GMS continuing to strengthen our trade relationships and VoX bringing dedicated public relations support, we are expanding our capacity to inspire Canadian travellers and support the partners who bring them to Portugal.”

Supporting advisors who inspire and sell Portugal

This fall, Visit Portugal reports it is maintaining a presence at trade shows and industry events across the country, sharing destination news and product updates with advisors. The effort is part of an ongoing program of webinars, in-person training, sales calls and familiarization trips for Canadian advisors.

“Travel advisors are our valued ambassadors and an essential link between Portugal and Canadian travellers,” added Garrett. “We deeply appreciate their commitment to our destination and want to ensure they have the support to introduce clients to new regions, recommend memorable experiences and grow their Portugal business.”

Visit Portugal shared that it is also working with key industry partners and associations on a series of events in Portugal before year-end, aimed at deepening destination knowledge, strengthening commercial relationships and broadening the experiences available to Canadian travellers.

In October, the Air Canada & United Airlines Race 2026 will take place in Porto and the North of Portugal, giving participating travel professionals firsthand exposure to the region.

Building year-round opportunity

The destination also shared that increased airlift is opening more opportunities for Canadians to visit Portugal beyond the traditional peak season, with experiences ranging from city breaks and culinary journeys to island escapes, wine tourism, golf and nature for winter and spring travel.

“Our priority is to turn greater connectivity and awareness into sustained demand across Portugal’s regions and seasons,” said Garrett.

“By working closely with our airline, tour operator, association and travel advisor partners, we look forward to a successful winter and spring and to building on the strong relationships that underpin Portugal’s growth in Canada.”

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