Following a recent decision by the EU to add Canada to its ‘green list’, lifting restrictions on non-essential travel by Canadians to its member countries, the European Travel Commission (ETC) has announced on 13JUL that it’s launching a major campaign to get Canadians to return to Europe this summer and fall.
Called “Europe Invites the Curious”, the multi-channel campaign is specific to the Canadian market, and is presented in partnership with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations.
The ETC, along with its member National Tourism Organisations (NTOs) has developed the campaign, which is co-funded by the European Union. It will include all the latest updates and information about travel experiences that consumers can enjoy in Europe, with a focus on nature, history, culture, and gastronomy.
Miguel Gallego, ETC's Head of Marketing said: “As Europe is set to welcome Canadian travellers back, we are thrilled to join forces with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations to encourage transatlantic travel again. Canadians are crucial for Europe. European destinations are ready to provide that smooth and harmonious experience to travellers that has been missing for so long”.
6.5 million Canadians travelled to Europe in 2019, and Canada ranks third among all out-of-region outbound travel markets for European destinations.
“We can’t wait to welcome our Canadian friends back,” says Pascal Prinz, Chair, Canada Chapter, ETC. “After watching the EURO soccer championship on TV and being stuck at home for months, it’s now time to get out there and rediscover Europe. Thanks to the accelerating vaccination rollout in Canada, we are hopeful for the late summer and a strong fall season. The pandemic has not stopped the love of Canadians for Europe. If anything, Canadians have missed Europe even more since the border closure 16 months ago.”
“We are excited to embark on this campaign, along with our long-time partner the European Travel Commission, as Canadians have a deep connection with Europe and are eager to travel again soon,” adds said Mark Galardo, Senior Vice President, Network Planning and Revenue Management at Air Canada.
Travel agents and tour operators seeking information about current travel conditions in Europe are advised to consult the portal reopen.europa.eu.
