TORONTO — At a recent industry luncheon in Toronto, Experience Turks & Caicos’ Chief Marketing Officer, Trina Adams, had a clear and concise message for the Canadian travel trade: “We are here today to let you know that we are back. And we are very excited to be back.”
After a few years’ absence from the Canadian market, the marketing organization is refocusing on Canada. This week’s luncheon, hosted by Experience Turks and Caicos, doubled as a kick-off for introducing its new country representative, VoX International. The event followed the Turks & Caicos Islands (TCI) delegation’s successful Outdoor Adventure Show in Toronto.
“We have a significant and long-standing relationship with Canada,” said Adams, adding, “We have been missing for a while.”
As TCI’s second-largest international market, Canada attracted some 48,000 visitors in 2024, primarily over winter months, with Canadians escaping the cold.
This year’s continued growth looks optimistic – and with good reason. Boosting the outlook is the expanded marketing efforts, enhanced airlift and new accommodation.
Maureen Barnes-Smith, Unique Vacations Canada Inc.
Moreover, the destination is introducing new and exciting events into the calendar, such as weekly fish fries, wine and food festivals, Ripsaw music, Junkanoo, whale-watching, regattas and more, all designed to entice more visitors.
Not to be overlooked, the appealing option of a direct flight from Toronto or Montreal that takes just 3.5 hours makes for an attractive getaway.
That said, this fair weather paradise is also keen to lure visitors to travel beyond Providenciales and explore its archipelago of islands and cays – all 40 of them – through a curated multi-island experience.
Adams states that it’s essential that the sister islands experience and stay connected to what is happening in tourism today.
SO WHY TURKS & CAICOS?
As Adams pointed out, “TCI is unlike many Caribbean countries.” It gives multi-generational markets a bevy of options for unique ‘barefoot-luxury’ vacation experiences, including eight Virtuoso-partner properties, Beaches Turks & Caicos and a vibrant selection of villas.
Additionally, nature parks, a top-notch culinary scene, world-class beaches, spa/wellness, and golf are all part of the growing hallmark list.
“Where else can you experience this in the world?” asked Adams.
TCI’s sustainability initiatives are also a talking point. TCI relies heavily on its natural environment for survival and has introduced numerous initiatives, including hydroponic farms, banning single-use plastics and protecting waters and marine spaces.
All are part of TCI’s ‘ahead of the curve’ strategy in maintaining the islands sustainably for future generations.
TRAVEL ADVISOR OPPORTUNITIES
The Canadian travel trade will play a part in TCI’s overall growth strategy through a dedicated specialist program to enhance destination knowledge and provide sales support.
In addition, TCI and VoX are planning webinars, hosting fam trips and developing marketing materials.
GETTING TO TCI
Reaching TCI is easier than ever with flights offered by both Air Canada and WestJet.
Air Canada operates daily flights from Toronto, three times weekly from Montreal during the winter months, and once a week during summer.
WestJet’s flights operate from Toronto on Fridays and Saturdays.
“You can have breakfast in Canada and lunch in Turks & Caicos within four hours,” said Adams. “And that’s not a bad deal.”
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