TORONTO — Portugal is making a strong push for Canadian travellers, bringing together tourism leaders from both countries for a major trade initiative aimed at expanding the destination’s presence in the Canadian market.
Kicking off Nov. 8 in Évora and running through Nov. 15, Visit Portugal’s Travel Trade Marketplace Canada brings together 40 Canadian tour operators and travel buyers, 40 Portuguese tourism suppliers and representatives from all seven of Portugal’s regional tourism boards.
The initiative represents one of Visit Portugal’s significant travel trade investments in Canada this year, building on the destination’s established popularity and strong air connectivity between the two countries. The Marketplace aims to strengthen industry relationships, introduce Canadian buyers to new destinations and experiences and create opportunities to expand Portugal vacation offerings and support year-round tourism.
The Marketplace officially opened Nov. 10 with a welcome address from Ines Almeida Garrett, Visit Portugal Director in Canada, who highlighted the initiative’s role in showcasing the country’s diversity, strengthening commercial relationships and positioning the Alentejo region as a destination worth exploring.
The opening continued with immersive Destination Classrooms highlighting tourism experiences across Portugal’s seven regions. TAP Air Portugal, the Marketplace’s official airline partner, also addressed attendees, emphasizing the importance of air connectivity in facilitating travel between Canada and Portugal.
Canadian buyers also had the opportunity to experience the destination firsthand through a guided visit to Évora, followed by a welcome dinner at Convento do Espinheiro, a historic property showcasing the cultural heritage and hospitality of the Alentejo region. Guests were welcomed with a performance of Cante Alentejano, a traditional folk singing style from the region.
A dedicated one-to-one B2B Marketplace is at the heart of the week’s activities, giving Canadian buyers and Portuguese tourism suppliers the opportunity to explore business opportunities, establish partnerships and develop new travel experiences for Canadians.
The programme also includes curated post-tours across Portugal’s seven regions, giving Canadian participants a closer look at the country’s attractions and experiences to support future product development.
