While many Canadians are familiar with Portugal’s Lisbon and Algarve regions, an amazing abundance of lesser-known tourism opportunities are about to open up in the country thanks to new upcoming Air Canada service from Montreal to Porto, starting in June and running through September.
The region is home to the Douro Valley, five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, thousands of years of history and all the cuisine and hospitality that the Portuguese are known for. It is also one of the country’s top producing winemaking destinations.
Travel Industry Today recently visited on a FAM hosted by Air Canada and Visit Porto & North Portugal, learning that Canada is ranked as one of Portugal’s top 10 markets and one tourism officials hope to further develop. More than 593,000 Canadians visited last year.
However, Catia Barbosa of the Porto & North of Portugal Tourism Board says the northern regions are a developing area for Canadians, largely undiscovered.
“Canadian travellers will fall in love with Porto and Northern Portugal for its captivating blend of old-world charm and stylish, modern vibrancy. Imagine escaping winter’s chill to explore historic cities, indulge in world-class wines and gastronomy, and discover breathtaking landscapes – all while enjoying a welcoming culture and exceptional value,” she said. “Whether seeking cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, or simply a relaxing getaway, this region offers an unforgettable experience.”
Meanwhile, World Heritage sites include: The Historical Centre of Porto; the Historical Centre of Guimaraes; Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga; the Foz Coa Art Valley; and the Douro Valley.
Access to Portugal is easy with Air Canada and Air Transat flights available from Toronto and Montreal to Lisbon and new direct service to Porto coming from Air Canada out of Montreal four times weekly June 4 to Sept. 28. Transat also flies seasonally to Porto.
Getting around the European nation is also easy thanks to an excellent transportation network, including trains, buses and metro. For those renting cars, the roads are convenient and safe to drive.
And compared to other European destinations, Porto and Northern Portugal offer excellent value for money in terms of accommodation, food and activities. Accommodation options range from luxury hotels to charming guesthouses. Agents can treat their clients to five-star luxury at a fraction of the price found in other countries.
From boat trips on the Douro River (also a major river cruise destination) to hiking in the mountains, the region offers a vast variety of activities for all tastes and ages. Its temperate winters are also sure to be a hit with Canadians.
Speaking with Travel Industry Today, Ines Almeida Garrett, Canadian director of Visit Portugal, said Canadians not familiar with the area are sure to enjoy the region’s unique cultural heritage and rich gastronomy, as well as the centuries-old tradition of winemaking and the beauty of the Douro River and Valley.
Her advice for agents selling the area is simple: experience it!
“Come visit us, discover Porto and the north, experience the food, the wines, the ancient conventual sweets, the cheese, the seafood and I could go on… but also experience the authenticity of this region, immerse yourself in the region and all the charming towns and villages, visit a wine cellar and a vineyard, experience the many outdoor activities offered and enjoy the different pace all this region has to offer.”
Air Canada
Regarding the new Air Canada Porto flights, Lisa Pierce, AC VP Global Sales commented, “Our new service to Porto opens up yet another new region for Canadian travellers to explore in southern Europe and complement existing services across the Mediterranean and the Iberian Peninsula, while also opening a new gateway for tourists to visit Canada. The addition of Porto to our Lisbon service makes it easier for those touring within Portugal.”
Air Canada Vacations’ account manager Nicolas Theriault of Montreal recently visited the area and described it as beautiful and rich in culture.
“The Douro Valley was simply amazing. My honest tip to anyone selling this country to their clients would be to offer it as an open-jaw flight. Travelling across [Portugal] is easy and due to the size of the country it is easy to see most of the main cities and regions on the same trip. This country can offer so many different experiences, from beach vacations to culinary adventures.”
Editor’s note: In Part 2 tomorrow, Travel Industry Today takes a road trip through the region, highlighting some of the best places to see and stay.
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