TORONTO — Air Canada Vacations says its new partnership with Trafalgar and Contiki will enhance its Europe Your Way Collection, featuring focused tours “that are trusted by consumers and easy to book”.
The partnership, announced last month and exclusive to Air Canada Vacations, stems from a desire to bring more diverse and unique European experiences to customers, says ACV.
ACV passengers can now choose between 16 Trafalgar Guided Vacations and five Contiki Guided Trips, gaining access to insider experiences such as an authentic meal with a local family at their borgo in Limonaia, Italy, as well as Contiki free-time add-ons such as bike tours in Barcelona or cruises around the island of Capri.
“Air Canada Vacations is constantly looking to innovate and provide customers with a wider choice of products and extraordinary experiences,” said ACV’s Managing Director, Nino Montagnese.
“As experiential travel gains in popularity, the ability to offer travellers unique, flexible and authentic tours is a must. By bundling flights, accommodation and excursions, customers also benefit from cost savings.”
To introduce its Trafalgar Guided Vacations, Air Canada Vacations is offering savings of up to $1,400 per couple and free Economy Class seat selection.
This offer applies to select air-inclusive packages and departure dates with a minimum five-night stay.
Travellers must book and pay by Jan. 11.
When booking and paying by Feb. 28, clients save up to $1,000 per couple. When booking and paying by April 26, they save up to $600 per couple.
This offer is valid for travel completed by Dec. 31, 2018 and applicable to Economy Class only.
Guests will also receive an exclusive voucher of $50 per person to use towards Optional Experiences with Trafalgar.
To introduce its Contiki Guided Trips for 18-to 35-year-olds, Air Canada Vacations is offering up to $650 off select air-inclusive packages of five or more nights and free Economy Class seat selection per person who books and pays by Feb. 21.
When booking and paying by April 10, clients save up to $450 per person, or up to $300 per person when booking and paying by June 6.
Travel must be completed by Dec. 31, 2018.
Guests will also receive an exclusive $50 voucher towards Free Time Add-Ons with Contiki.
Air Canada Vacations says it “always strives to simplify the booking process for travel agents, and this new collaboration means we are one step closer to achieving this.”
Providing a one-stop shop adds convenience, and the opportunity to earn commission on both the air and land components, notes the tour operator.
Agents can book online or via the call centre, make group requests and earn ACV&ME points and Aeroplan miles.
ACV says the new partnership will be one of the main pillars of its 2018 Europe brochure, which will be released in December. Adds ACV: “many more new products will be part of the lineup, so stay tuned!”