itravel2000's Jonathan Carroll & Brad Miron
Orlando CVB's Melanie Dickie &
Anita Walker with Fleming Friisdahl
of Contac
itravel2000's Dianne Jackson &
Anna Tarkowski of Sunwing
Dan Langevin, Softvoyage with
Transat Holidays' Denise Heffron
Shhhh… there are people still recovering out there.
No surprise: it’s just the after effects of the annual bash-of-the-year for le tout Toronto travel crowd: itravel 2000’s Christmas party which sees res types consorting with V.P.s, junior execs schmoozing with senior execs and a few Friisdahls letting their hair down. And as in past years, the invite reminded guests to be sure to ”book the next day off!”
The venue, Maison Mercer, is one of the city’s coolest clubs, and as always the food was in abundance and adult beverages flowed non-stop. This time, the music was even turned down a bit so folks didn’t have to shout in order to catch up with each other and keep the industry’s rumour mill going.
And as in past years, Open Jaw conducted an incredibly unscientific poll as to what the industry’s honchos hope Santa will bring them in 2013. So without further ado… here you go!
No surprise that snow was a popular choice. Sunwing’s Anna Tarkowski finds that snow just makes it all better. Or as Brad Miron, put it: “Snow, snow and more snow. P.S.? More snow!” Patrice Bell of the Las Vegas CVB is hoping for a Canadian dollar 10% above the U.S. (oooh, I like the sound of that), while Judy Duncan has visions of Justin Bieber performing live at the BodyHoliday in St. Lucia. Sunwing’s Lorraine Brisbois simply hopes for a stronger economy. Nino Montagnese of ACV wants Santa to deliver their new leisure carrier really quickly. iTravel’s Kim Uno is easy to please - she’d be happy with Jon Bon Jovi. Dan Langevin of Softvoyages wants his golf handicap lowered by 4 strokes. And at least one tour operator is leaving enough room in his stocking for Santa to deliver an entire cruise ship.
Lots to ponder, over the Alka Seltzer! Many thanks, Jonathan and crew for yet another great evening of fun and fellowship. Here’s to a happy and successful 2013, whatever’s on your list!
