FLYING THE FLAG AT IPW: From Air Canada to Keanu, Canadians feel the love in La-la Land

Close to 150 Canadians may have been a drop in the bucket amongst the 5,700 attendees at IPW – US Travel’s signature international trade show – in Los Angeles this week, but the delegation had an outsized presence and proudly waved the flag as befits the US’s top international market.

Even Canadian icon (and heartthrob) Keanu Reeves dropped by with his band Dogstar to perform at one of the lunches (Ziggy Marley and a medley of Broadway performances rounded out the midday entertainment).

The majority of the Canadian contingent kicked off proceedings at an opening night Discover America Canada (DAC) reception hosted by Air Canada – an affair enhanced by the spectacular views afforded by its location on the 69th floor of the Intercontinental hotel, which was home base for the Canadians throughout the week.

Hosers at the hoedown: Canadians and friends at the annual IPW Texas party

“I loved it, the vibe was awesome, and it was a really good turnout this year,” said Sue Webb of the annual event for DAC members, plus Canadian buyers and media.

The reception was a great opportunity, Webb said, for Canadians from across the country and different industry spheres to meet each other, and also to mingle with American partner members or their Canadian reps (one even flew in from New Zealand for the event).

The event was hosted by Air Canada, whose manager of global sales & tourism partnerships Audrey Tanguay Baudette said, “It’s our way of thanking all our partners for their support and partnerships, and we’re supporting our delegation.”

She added that it is also important for Air Canada to have a significant presence at a show in the US – especially California – which has shown so much growth coming out of the pandemic

Ladies in red: Louisiana’s Canada rep Joanne Scalamogna, and Maureen Maheu, Canada Jetlines

“It’s important for us to stay top of mind, to build and strengthen our relationships,” she continued, noting the airline’s efforts continue to increase in the US, not least with its joint venture with United Airlines.

Elvi Cal, Sr. VP Products and Commercial for Toronto-based TravelBrands, says US travel bookings have rebounded significantly since the pandemic for the tour company, as has interest from US partners, including some destinations that may have been guilty of taking Canada for granted in the past.

“They’re realizing the importance of Canada driving growth into the US and we’re seeing significant support from Brand USA and some of the CVBs,” said Cal.

“As a whole, Canada is really being embraced,” he added. “We’re feeling the love!”