Agents return from FAM trip to Porto with ACV

Air Canada Vacations recently hosted a FAM trip to Porto and Northern Portugal, offering travel professionals firsthand experience of the region’s rich culture, cuisine, and attractions.

Held from June 4 to 10, 2025 in partnership with the Porto & North of Portugal Tourism Board, the trip welcomed 10 top-performing travel advisors and key account manager Suzanne Morgan to explore the area’s heritage, landscapes, and hospitality.

“International Familiarization trips are an integral part of our plan to grow our global portfolio,” said Nino Montagnese, vice president of Air Canada Vacations. “These experiences allow us to strengthen our relationships with our travel agent partners and
empower them to better showcase our expanding destination offerings to Canadian travellers.”

The itinerary featured breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Guimarães, the Douro Valley, and Bom Jesus do Monte. Participants indulged in gourmet dining and cocktails at top-tier properties including The Lince Santa Clara, a sophisticated five-star hotel, and enjoyed a wine-tasting lunch at Quinta de Santa Júlia, a renowned estate overlooking
the Douro Valley known for its port wine. A memorable lunch was also held at the majestic, historic Pousada de Viana do Castelo.

Travel advisors experienced deluxe accommodations at landmark properties such as Vila Galé Collection Ponte de Lima, Tivoli Kopke Porto Gaia, and Porto Palácio Hotel.

“This initiative reflects our broader commitment to growing Air Canada Vacations’ international offering while investing in meaningful, hands-on learning for our partners,” said Erminia Gallina, Director of Sales at Air Canada Vacations. “As one of our advisors put it, ‘Air Canada Vacations takes the work out of travel planning. With their vast collection of destinations, it’s worry-free travel at its best.’ That’s exactly the kind of trust and inspiration we aim to foster.”

More FAM opportunities to high-potential and in-demand global destinations are currently in development.

Air Canada Vacations has newly introduced tours to Porto, with direct flights from Montreal starting this year.