Ottawa Tourism Launches Incentive Program Aimed at Boosting Group Travel Recovery
Ottawa Tourism has launched a program for tour operators to incentivize new bookings in Ottawa.
Group travel is on the upswing and now, through a new initiative for tour operators aimed at incentivizing new bookings in Ottawa, Ottawa Tourism is looking to play a part in the effort.
Upon registering for Ottawa VIP ("Visitor Inspiration Program"), tour operators receive a box of local gifts to share with tour participants, elevating the in-destination experience and showcasing more of Ottawa's local culture. The incentive program is paired with a $35 credit per-room night to be used on a qualified tour operator's next visit to Ottawa, further encouraging more travel trade business. Ottawa VIP, which officially launched on June 5, 2023, has been created as a multi-year incentive program, with the $35 credit being offered until December 1, 2023.
"Group travel is an important segment of Ottawa's tourism mix, and innovative ideas like Ottawa VIP will help us regain market share in this space as all destinations rebuild from the pandemic-years," said Michael Crockatt, President and CEO of Ottawa Tourism. "We know visitors are seeking personal connections to the destinations they visit, so our Travel Trade team is constantly looking for ways to elevate the Ottawa experience, show off our beautiful city, and foster relationships with operators that bring visitors back year after year."
Tour operators interested in taking part in this opportunity can register on the Ottawa VIP webpage by December 1, 2023 and may spend the $35/ room night credit at participating attractions or hotels by May 31, 2024, with credits rolling over to upcoming visits, with the ability to earn and use credits multiple times throughout the duration of the program. In addition to the credit, gifts for participants include either one small gift for each person or three to four medium gifts that can be raffled. All gifts are locally sourced such as chocolates, maple products, wellness soaps, locally-made Indigenous products and more.
"We are excited to participate in this program led by Ottawa Tourism, which lessens our overall cost to bring visitors to town, as well as creates a special opportunity to share local products with our participants," said Carole Carley, Director of Operations for Brightspark Travel. "In my mind, participation in this is a no-brainer. It benefits us, our guests, future guests and the Ottawa community!"
Learn more by visiting Ottawa Tourism.
Courtesy of Groups Today.
