William Delgado of the Portuguese Tourist Office with Tammy Cecco, TravelLife Magazine
Vijay Bathija of Rouge
Rouge flight attendant Pamela Dinshaw with Adelino Sales, President of Latin World Tours
Octopus, anyone?
Rouge, it seems, is on a roll. Air Canada’s plucky young cousin is expanding in a big way – including direct flights to Portugal. And it’s definitely good timing for the Portuguese National Tourist Office, who have re-opened in YTO after an absence of 4 years.
“Portugal has so much to offer your clients,” said Dianne Pedroso, Area Sales Manager, Toronto West for Air Canada Vacations at a recent reception for agents and tour operators. “Libson, the Algarve, coach touring – perfect for 1st timers – self drives, river cruises and more. Our program offers complete flexibility.”
As the group munched on octopus, sweet potatoes with porcini mushrooms, codfish and shrimp with piripiri, we learned from Vijay Bathija, Vice President, Commercial with Rouge, what a growth spurt Rouge has been on. “We launched on July 1st last year with 4 aircraft and 14 destinations. We now have 27 aircraft and offer 52 destinations.” Portugal, he predicts, will be a major market for the carrier.
The flights will be operated outbound on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday on a 767-300 featuring 24 roomy Premium seats with full meal service (and a free iPad to keep). And all pax will enjoy free movies streamed to their devices.
A number of the agents present commented that Portugal used to be a strong seller for the snowbird market but is now seen as more of an FIT destination and they are looking forward to promoting it to their clients.
“Thank you for believing in Portugal!” said an enthusiastic Willian Delgado, Country Manager for Canada for the Portugal Tourist Office. Clearly the country has an enthusiastic booster looking forward to sharing Portugal with new fans.
