Europe Invites The Curious

The European Travel Commission (ETC) has launched a major campaign with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations to inspire Canadians to rediscover Europe this summer and fall.

The new campaign rolls out following the European Union’s recent decision to add Canada to its green list and recommendation to all EU states to lift restrictions on Canadian non-essential travellers.

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.”

Europe has adapted to the pandemic, implemented strict safety protocols, and launched numerous new travel experiences.

The ETC, in partnership with its member National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) has developed the “Europe Invites the Curious” campaign which is co-funded by the European Union. The multi-channel campaign 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.

Pascal Prinz, Chair, Canada Chapter, ETC said that: “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.”

Prinz continued: “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 can’t wait to welcome our Canadian friends back.”

Canada ranks third among all out-of-region outbound travel markets for European destinations, and it welcomed 6.5 million travellers from Canada in 2019.

Mark Galardo, Senior Vice President, Network Planning and Revenue Management at Air Canada, noted that: “As travel restrictions ease across the globe, Air Canada is committed to rebuild its international network and continue as a global carrier to connect Canada to the world. 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. With vaccination rates globally increasing and our industry-leading CleanCare+ bio-safety protocols, Air Canada has your health and safety as its top priority and we look forward to welcoming you back onboard.”

Travel agents and tour operators seeking information about current travel conditions in Europe, can go to www.reopen.europa.eu .

For more on Air Canada’s programs, go to https://www.aircanada.com/en-ca/europe .