Destination Canada chose 10 Aussie advisors as Radical Ambassadors to showcase the uniquely Canadian concept of Radical Openness through open spaces, open hearts and open minds. Now, back in Australia, our Radical Ambassadors share how the transformative trip to Canada opened their eyes.
From 3-12 October 2024, our competition-winning Radical Ambassadors travelled to British Columbia and Alberta with Air Canada on a curated itinerary that was nothing short of superlative.
Think multiple (!) viewings of the Northern Lights, a Rocky Mountaineer rail journey, kayaking on Lake Louise, cycling in Vancouver’s Stanley Park, sampling Caesars (a famous Canadian cocktail) and many more pinch-me experiences to bring back and inspire others to travel to Canada.
The Radical Ambassadors were wowed by quintessential Canadian moments such as seaplane transfers, line-dancing, lake plunges and farm-to-table cuisine.
They met warm and welcoming local characters, shared food and wine and experienced Indigenous culture along the way, colouring in their journey and capturing all the content to share on social media.
It was, as Travel Associates’ Samantha Lang simply states, “a life-changing experience”. Get a firsthand look!
Translating so many insights into itineraries
First-timer Rose Febo from TravelManagers said her firsthand experience has transformed how she presents and sells Canada.
“These insights not only enriched my personal experience but also equipped me with authentic tips to share, making future travels to Canada more meaningful, connected, and memorable for my clients,” she said.
“With these firsthand insights, I now craft personalised itineraries that showcase Canada’s wonders in ways that simply weren’t possible before. It’s the thoughtful touches like these that turn a great trip into an unforgettable journey.”
Travel Associates’ Abby Pezze said visiting in autumn showcased the many benefits of travelling to Canada in the shoulder seasons.
“Autumn in Canada has great weather, great wildlife and so many opportunities to view the Northern Lights,” she enthused.
For Global Travel Network’s Tayla Suiker, one of her eye-opening insights was how much Canadian cities have to offer.
“Before this trip, I associated Canada with snow and the Rocky Mountains, however, the cities, particularly Victoria and Vancouver, are full of culture, great food and history and still hold so much beauty with the surrounding ocean and mountains. I truly believe Canada can provide everything for every type of traveller,” she said.
MTA – Mobile Travel Agent’s Justine Frost said: “We were shown things and presented with opportunities that allowed us to experience all that Canada has to offer. With open eyes and an emphasis on the real Canada and its people, this opens the door to what we can bring to clients’ adventures.”
In their Radical Ambassador era
Ellie Perry-Amerikow from italktravel & cruise said she has returned from the famil as a sustainable tourism advocate, eager to share her passion for the Canadian culture and community connection.
It’s a recurring theme with all Radical Ambassadors highlighting the privilege of the immersive experiences, rich Indigenous cultures and energy and connection with the locals as their defining takeaways from the famil.
Josie Allen from Warrnambool Travel concurred: “As someone whose heart has been completely taken by Canada, I feel extremely privileged as a Destination Canada Radical Ambassador to be able to represent the people, wildlife, places, stories and emotions that make this country.”
TravelManagers’ Michelle Pelley agreed: “What a privilege it is to bring these experiences to life, helping others to see Canada as so much more than a destination to tick off a list after only one trip. P.S. When can I go back?”
Flight Centre’s Kaitlyn Jensen summed up the overall sentiment.
“Being a Destination Canada Radical Ambassador means having the privilege to learn about and showcase the beauty and culture of Canada through a fresh, authentic lens,” she said.
“It’s about inspiring others to explore and embrace new experiences and connect with the landscapes and communities that make Canada truly incredible. It’s more than travel, it’s sharing a passion for discovery and creating meaningful, lasting memories.”
Start your Canada Specialist Program journey today!
Sign up for the new and improved Canada Specialist Program and complete the modules at your own pace to earn your title as an expert in all things Canada.
Plus, stay tuned to Karryon for more Canada famil opportunities announced for 2025.
Sign up for the Canada Specialist Program via canadaspecialist.com.au today to get started.
For more Canada inspo and info, head to keepexploring.com.au
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