RVC 2023 Heads to Québec City

Québec City will be the official host of Rendez-vous Canada 2023, shining the spotlight on this “one-of-a-kind city” at Canada’s premier international tourism marketplace.

Robert Mercure, General Manager of Destination Québec cite, said that: “In 2020, we indicated that the cancellation of Rendez-vous Canada in our destination was only a postponement. So, we are happy to welcome this grandiose and major event for the tourism industry in 2023.”

Mercure continued: “In addition to providing a memorable immersion in an authentic French-speaking culture, Destination Québec cité invites travel professionals from around the world and members of the Canadian tourism industry to be surprised by the different personalities and accents of Quebec City. Mark your calendar in 2023.”

Originally known by its Iroquoian name, Stadaconé, Québec was given its current name in 1608 and is derived from an Algonquin word meaning “where the river narrows.” The city is ready to welcome the tourism industry in 2023 as they engage and connect with international buyers, travel trade media, and destination marketing companies.

Marsha Walden, President and CEO, Destination Canada, which co-hosts the tradeshow in partnership with the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC), observed that: “For over 45 years, this signature event has shined a spotlight on Canada’s remarkable destinations, connecting international travel buyers with Canadian tourism businesses. Delegates will create meaningful connections supporting the recovery of Canada’s tourism sector in the years ahead, driving prosperity back into local businesses and their communities.”

Walden continued: “RVC delegates will enjoy Québec City’s legendary culinary scene, explore its fascinating history, and experience the vibrant Indigenous culture of the Huron-Wendat Nation.”

Martin Soucy, CEO of Alliance Touristique, which represents the province’s tourism industry, said that: “Hosting an event of the importance of Rendez-vous Canada demonstrates to what extent the Québec industry is ready to reach new heights and distinguish itself in the new reality of international tourism.”

And Soucy added: “Beyond Québec City, all of our regions can be both proud and enthusiastic about the visibility and significant benefits that this event will bring to our destination over the coming years.”

And Keith Henry, President and CEO of Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, said that: “We’re thrilled to once again collaborate with Destination Canada and the Tourism Industry Association of Canada on Rendez-vous Canada 2023,” “Events like Rendez-vous Canada ensure Indigenous tourism is top of mind among Canada’s key international industry leaders and are vital to the successful recovery of the Indigenous tourism industry at large.”

The news of Québec City’s official host city sponsorship of Rendez-vous Canada 2023 is coming just as this year’s edition of the tradeshow swings into Toronto next month, May 24 to May 27, 2022.

Beth Potter, President & CEO of TIAC, said that: “As we get set to welcome guests from across Canada and around the world to RVC+ 2022 this year, I know that many in our global industry will already be thinking of where-to, next.”

Potter continued: “It’s been a challenging two years and being able to see each other again and do business together is wonderful. The excitement is only just beginning and this announcement of Québec City as host city for 2023 will ensure that it is sustained into next year as we all work to recover Canada’s tourism economy.”

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism was made up of 225,000 small- and medium-sized businesses, provided 1 in 10 Canadian jobs across Canada, and accounted for $105 billion in GDP. Events such as Rendez-vous Canada will help the sector rebuild by showcasing the country and bringing international buyers back.