Virtual reality headset glasses are the latest gizmo used to showcase destinations, used by both AC And Tourism Australia.
AC's Duncan Bureau address the crowd in the beautifully restored heritage venue.
Siti Maktob of DHL Global Forwarding enjoying the company of Ayako Okajima of Skyland Travel Inc.
AC prize winner Alyssa Jimenez of Fernweh Travel is flanked by Robert Keddy of Tourism Australia(L) and Leigh Arredondo of Tourism Queensland.
Champion Oyster Shucker Patrick McMurray of Toronto’s Starfish & Ceili Cottage.
Aussie meat pies - a creation of Chef Hawksworth for the occasion.
Air Canada threw a big party for its industry partners and suppliers In Vancouver last week to celebrate its newly launched and up-and-coming international routes from YVR. In a beautifully preserved 1907 heritage building with columned grand entrance and ornate stained-glass ceiling, 200 lucky attendees mingled over cocktails and hors d'oeuvres created by local celebrity Chef David Hawksworth, who is also the culinary master behind AC's international business class inflight menu. It was an honour to have the opportunity to sample these incredibly delicious bites by the world class chef.
Tourism Ireland, Tourism Australia and VisitBritain were also on hand to help celebrate and bring awareness to AC's new destinations. The hot spot was definitely at Shucker Paddy's table brought to us by Tourism Ireland. Patrick McMurray - World Champion & Guinness Book Oyster Shucker - served up oysters imported from Ireland to bring us a taste of the Emerald Isle. Not to be outdone, Tourism Australia wowed guests with virtual reality headset glasses that brought numerous Australian destinations to life with spectacular 3-D imaging and 360° degree views.
Duncan Bureau, Air Canada's V.P. Global Sales thanked everyone for their support and at the same time stressed the importance of YVR as a major AC hub. Not only do BC travellers benefit from a vast array of routing choices, AC also gives back in a big way by employing 5,500 employees across the province and making a significant economic impact with annual spend of $1.2B.
In attendance was Siti Maktob from DHL Global Forwarding which has agreements with AC to transport cargo around the world for DHL clients. Normally at trade events I meet members of the agent community, so it was a delight to gain insight into a different aspect of the airline business. AC's route expansions to BNE, DUB and increased service into London using Dreamliners and 767 aircraft translates into larger cargo capacity, news that DHL is happy to hear and eager to help fill.
Alyssa Jimenez of Fernweh Travel was one of the lucky winners of AC premium economy seats to BNE. As a corporate and leisure agent, she already books many clients on premium economy seats, and is excited to now have her chance to enjoy the experience. AC is a large part of the agency's business portfolio.
With our tummies filled with oysters from Ireland, meat pie and kangaroo tartar from Australia, we look forward to more expansion news from AC, and hopefully accompanying culinary delights in future.
Ming Tappin is a cruise veteran with over 20 years’ experience in the industry and has sailed on 38 cruises and counting. Based in Vancouver, Ming is Owner of www.yourcruisecoach.com
