This week: Flight Centre makes a strategic investment in Toronto; Miami was on the FAM roster with Air Canada; and Virtuoso revealed the location of its 2026 Symposium.
Flight Centre
Flight Centre Canada officially opened its new flagship store in Toronto’s financial district. The company says the move reinforces its long-standing commitment to in-person travel planning as others scale back physical footprints.
Located in Royal Bank Plaza and directly connected to Toronto’s PATH system, the shop is a “strategic investment in accessibility, flexibility, and face-to-face expertise,” says Flight Centre.
“Canadians aren’t just booking vacations – they’re looking for someone they can trust to guide the way,” said Chris Lynes, Managing Director of Flight Centre Travel Group Canada. “Nearly 9 in 10 travellers see real value in working with a travel expert, especially when it comes to peace of mind, reducing stress, and having someone in their corner when plans change. That’s what this new store delivers: connection, confidence, and a reminder that great travel starts with a great conversation.”
Replacing its long-standing Yonge and King location, the new store is designed with modern travellers in mind, featuring flexible spaces; digital enhancements, including the brand’s iconic airfare ticker boards; and areas for everything from quick getaway chats to in-depth travel planning consultations.
“This new space reflects our long-term vision for Canada—where travel advice remains human, local, and built on trust,” Lynes added.
The opening also marks a milestone moment: 30 years since Flight Centre launched its first Canadian shop in Vancouver.
“We’re celebrating three decades of helping generations of Canadians see the world,” said Lynes. “This flagship store is both a nod to our roots and a leap into the future of travel retail.”
Miami-Air Canada
Greater Miami and Miami Beach says it is continuing to “welcome Canadians with open arms” as showcased in a recent familiarization (FAM) trip hosted by the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), Sunny Isles Beach Tourism Council, and Air Canada (banner photo). Eight top-tier Canadian travel advisors from Toronto and Montreal took part in the excursion.
“As Miami gears up for an exciting pipeline of new developments this year and through 2026, Canadian travellers can continue to expect great connectivity via Air Canada and a welcoming environment filled with adventure, value, and sunshine year-round,” says Debra Lee, Director of Travel Industry Sales of Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. “This FAM is a testament to GMCVB’s commitment to the Canadian market and a showcase of how the destination is constantly evolving to meet the desires of modern travellers,”
Highlights of the FAM included fine dining and a tango-dinner show, culinary tour in Little Havana Culinary Tour, a visit to the Museum of Ice Cream, and more.
Canadian travel agents interested in future FAMs or trade resources can contact may reach out to GMCVB’s Debra Lee at debra@gmcvb.com or access the destination’s website for updates here.
Virtuoso
Virtuoso has announced its 2026 Symposium will be held in Seoul, South Korea, from April 15-19, 2026. The event will attract approximately 400 travel executives from over 35 countries for five days of strategic networking, business development and immersive exploration of one of Asia’s most exciting destinations. The announcement was made during the 2025 Virtuoso Symposium, which took place on May 13-17 aboard the Crystal Serenity.
“Korea was selected as the host of next year’s Symposium due to our strong and growing partnership with the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO), combined with increasing demand for luxury experiences in unique settings,” said Virtuoso’s Sr. VP Global Events, Jennifer Campbell. “From the deeply rooted traditions of Seoul’s palaces to the innovation in its design, wellness and technology sectors, Korea represents the future of luxury travel – one that blends meaning, beauty and human connection. Korea’s unique appeal, cultural richness and diverse range of experiences make it essential for our members and partners to explore and understand all that Korea has to offer.”
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