Club Med Sales Team.
Next year will mark Club Med's 70th year in business. "We basically evolved with the baby-boomer," says Jacinda Lowry, National Sales Director for the all-inclusive sun and ski resort operator. "We have the mission, the goal to continue for the next 70 years, where we are not only investing in new destinations, but also investing in our existing portfolio."
"Yes we need to bring them up to par with the ferocious competition out there," says Lowry, "but also to offer that Club Med spirit and experience that only we can offer with our G.Os (gentle organizers) and differentiators that I am very proud to say Club Med owns."
An event in Toronto celebrated the launch of the 2020 Trident brochure, with approximately 100 agents and travel partners gathered at The Fifth Social Club to sip and socialize.
"Seas The Day" and "Snow And Tell" are the messages found on the two-sided cover of Club Med's Trident brochure. One side promotes its sun destination resorts, while the flip side details the company’s ski resorts.
L-R Ethel Hansen Davey, Uniglobe Enterprise Travel, Jacinda Lowry, Club Med,
Marilyn Shalm, New Wave Travel.
Amelie Brouhard, Vice President Club Med Canada and Mexico, spoke about the opening of the first Exclusive Collection resort in the America's, Miches Playa Esmeralda, Dominican Republic, which officially opened on 23NOV. This eco-chic resort is located south of Samana, set along a pristine sand beach and lush rainforest. It is easily accessible from AZS, PUJ, or LRM airports.
Miches Playa Esmeralda, Dominican Republic.
In other news, Club Med La Caravelle, Guadeloupe celebrated its reopening last week after a $70 million renovation and expansion transformation. From the adult-only Zen Oasis with in-suite infinity pool to the 80 new family suites and superior rooms, new kids club and water club. Direct flights are available from YUL.
Club Med La Caravelle, Guadeloupe.
Brouhard reflected on the growth over the past year, where Club Med saw an increase of 15% on individual traveller markets. Ontario over-performed with 18% growth, and there was a 23% increase on mountain resort sales compared to last year. Bookings for winter 2020 are already 20% higher than this year, Brouhard said.
“More than ever, we are counting on our travel partners’ precious collaboration," said Brouhard. "Year after year, Club Med’s performances are exemplary and testify to the great success we’re achieving together. These results are the pride of an entire team working alongside our partners on a daily basis."
Club Med's commitment to eco-responsibility and sustainability go as far as having all staff uniforms at the new Miches Playa Esmeralda made from 100% recycled plastic. Currently, 77% of Club Med resorts are Green Globe-certified for sustainable tourism. The company expects to hit 100% by 2021. Brouhard also announced the gradual elimination of single-use plastics at all Club Med resorts by 2021.
TTAND agents Andrea and Sue having fun at the photo booth.
L-R Thomas Rado, Gibraltar and Palme, Joyce Morocco, Destination Niagara Falls,
Heather Dow, Events & Management Plus, Maria Chung, BDM MICE at Club Med,
Nalina Williams, Platinum Hospitality Group.
Karen Dahdah Columnist
An avid traveller, adventure seeker and travel expert for over 15 years, Karen has toured over 35 countries around the world. She shares her first-hand knowledge of unique and off the beaten path destinations including hidden gems in Asia, adrenaline-rushing African safaris, and the fascinating culture of French Polynesia.
