open for business · 2019. 10. 29. · like we do! the business events canada team offers in-depth...

OPEN FOR BUSINESS

SMART REASONS TO MEET

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

FIND YOUR PERFECT FIT

Québec City, Quebec

2 BUSINESS EVENTS CANADA BUSINESS EVENTS CANADA 3businesseventscanada.ca #meetincanada

CONTENTS

2 Why Canada for Business Events?

3 Smart Reasons to Choose Canada

5 Your Canadian Meeting Experts

6 Map of Canada

8 British Columbia Kelowna Vancouver Victoria Whistler

10 Alberta Banff|LakeLouise Calgary Edmonton Jasper

12 Prairies Regina Saskatoon Winnipeg

14 Ontario Niagara Falls Ottawa Toronto Waterloo Region

16 Quebec Montréal Québec City Tremblant

18 Atlantic Canada Charlottetown Fredericton Halifax Saint John St. John’s

20 Legendary Destinations

Clayoquot Churchill Fogo Island RockyMountaineer

Experience Whitehorse Yellowknife

22 Luxury Resorts FairmontBanffSprings Fairmont Chateau

LakeLouise FairmontLeChâteau

Montebello FairmontLeManoir

Richelieu Charlevoix Fox Harb ̓r Resort JW Marriott,

TheRosseau,Muskoka Sonora Resort SparklingHillResort WickaninnishInn

26 Resources for Planners

Destination Data Flight Times to Canada Canada Fast Facts

SMART REASONS TO CHOOSE CANADA FOR YOUR NEXT MEETING

Everyone is welcomeOpen minds. Open hearts. Canada is an inclusive, safe, culturally diverse and genuinely welcoming host destination.

We’re closer than you thinkTouch down in our hub cities within hours from the US, UK and Europe. Canada ̓s largest urban centres are within 160 km (100 mi) of the US border, which means faster direct flights.

Location, location, locationCanada ̓s powerful landscapes will energize and inspire your group, whether your destination is urban or resort, coastal, mountain or prairie.

Smart convention centresElevate your attendee experience. Canada ̓s bright and flexible meeting facilities are sustainably designed and serve up regionally sourced, award-winning cuisine.

Incentives like nowhere elseReward your team with a visit to a luxury resort. Ski, golf, party with polar bears, explore the untamed backcountry, or jet to one of our cosmopolitan cities for deeply immersive, only-in-Canada adventures.

Find your perfect fitCanada ̓s dynamic destinations can accommodate groups of any size, whether you ̓ re planning a VIP retreat for a few or a citywide takeover of thousands.

Your best valueCanada stretches your budget further. Ask about seasonal savings, tax rebates and financial incentives.

Expert guidanceCanada is the only country to offer an International Events and Convention Services Program (IECSP) to help navigate border requirements and procedures.

THE place to beCanada is contemporary and progressive. Watch attendance and delegate engagement soar with an invitation to convene in Canada.

We’re No. 1Lonely Planet, The New York Times and Travel + Leisure all rate Canada as an exceptional place to visit.

WHY CANADA FOR BUSINESS EVENTS? Canada is an ideal setting for any business

meeting, convention or incentive travel program. Explore your options from coast to coast to coast. Cities large and small offer bright, sustainable and innovative convention facilities as well as limitless opportunities to experience local culture—whether it’s fine dining among Toronto’s glittering skyscrapers, a VIP reception at the peak of Vancouver’s Grouse Mountain, or soaking up Montréal’s creative energy during any one of its immersive street festivals.

Canada is as welcoming, safe and diverse as it is dramatic and vast. There is plenty of room to collaborate and innovate against a backdrop of dynamic views—from sophisticated urban centres humming with energy, to rugged mountains and untamed oceans. Celebrate team accomplishments in creative and

extraordinary ways: Enjoy a private, catered lobster dinner on red sand dunes; ride the rails through Canada’s spectacular Rocky Mountains; or come nose-to-nose with polar bears in their natural habitat. With so many choices, it’s no surprise that attendance and delegate engagement soar with an invitation to meet in Canada.

Business Events Canada helps meeting planners bring corporate, association and incentive events to Canada. Let us introduce you to our extensive cross-country network of meeting and event partners.

Business Events Canada is your first point of contact when considering Canada for your group!businesseventscanada.ca

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4 BUSINESS EVENTS CANADA BUSINESS EVENTS CANADA 5businesseventscanada.ca #meetincanada MEETINGS INCENTIVES

HERE’S WHAT WE CAN DO FOR YOU

• Meet in Canada fundamentals: extensive network of contacts, solutions and support

• Site selection and expert advice

• RFP facilitation, site inspection and educational familiarization programs

• Planning toolkit

• Destination updates

• Itinerary ideas

• Customs and immigration resources (Canada Border Services Agency)

• Foreign Convention and Tour Incentive Program

Let us put you in touch with Canadaʼs meeting experts.Contact us: [email protected]

NO ONE KNOWS CANADA LIKE WE DO!The Business Events Canada team offers in-depth knowledge of all Canadian destinations and conference facilities. Contact us for solutions and support on the fundamentals of meeting in Canada, including introductions to our extensive cross-country network of meeting and event partners. Business Events Canada is your first point of contact when considering Canada for your group!

Meet the Business Events Canada team. Youʼll find contact information and much more on our website:businesseventscanada.ca/team

FIND OUT MORE businesseventscanada.ca#meetincanada

@canadameetings

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BUSINESS EVENTS CANADA 7businesseventscanada.ca #meetincanada MEETINGS INCENTIVES MEETINGS INCENTIVES

LONDON

BRUSSELS

PARIS

HUDSON BAY NEWFOUNDLANDAND LABRADOR

THE MARITIMESPRINCE EDWARD ISLANDNOVA SCOTIA NEW BRUNSWICK

BRITISHCOLUMBIA

YUKON NORTHWESTTERRITORIES

ALBERTA

SASKATCHEWAN

MANITOBA

ONTARIO

QUEBEC

NUNAVUT

VANCOUVER

TOFINO FOGO ISLAND

KELOWNABANFF |LAKE LOUISE

REGINA

SASKATOON

WINNIPEG

WHISTLER

SONORAISLAND

VICTORIA

YELLOWKNIFE

OTTAWA

TORONTO

NIAGARA FALLS

WATERLOO

SAINT JOHN

WHITEHORSE

HALIFAX

FOX HARBOUR

CHARLOTTETOWN

ST. JOHN’S

CHURCHILL

FREDERICTON

CLAYOQUOT

TREMBLANT

JASPER

CALGARY

EDMONTON

MONTRÉAL

ROCKYMOUNTAINEEREXPERIENCE

QUÉBEC CITY

BUFFALO

PHOENIX

BOSTON

ATLANTA

NEW YORK CITY

PHILADELPHIADENVER

DALLAS-FORT WORTH

WASHINGTON, D.C.

DETROIT

CHICAGO

SAN FRANCISCO

LAS VEGAS

HOUSTON

MINNEAPOLIS

PORTLAND

SEATTLE

MIAMI

SALT LAKE CITY

CHARLOTTE

NASHVILLE

COLUMBUS

PITTSBURGH

ST. LOUIS

JACKSON

ORLANDO

OKLAHOMA CITY

NEW ORLEANS

INDIANAPOLIS

OKANAGAN VALLEY

MONTEBELLO

CHARLEVOIX

MUSKOKA

LEGEND

URBAN

State-of-the-art venues and unique cultural experiences for groups

RESORT

Modern luxuries amid dramatic and inspiring landscapes

LEGENDARY

Authentic, immersive and uniquely Canadian adventures

LUXURY

Reward and motivate with indulgent experiences

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER EXPERIENCE ROUTE

6 BUSINESS EVENTS CANADA


WHISTLER meetings.whistler.com

Work hard, play hard at this awe-inspiring mountain destination. Youthful, energetic and the site of Winter Olympic competitions, Whistler is perfectly prepared to host business meetings, conventions and incentive programs.Total Guest Rooms3,620Biggest Meeting SpaceWhistler Conference Centre3,716 sq m40,000 sq ftLocal Expertise: Work/play balance; creative brainstorming in a relaxed resort setting.Group Experiences: Olympic-calibre alpine skiing on two mountains; snow sport teambuilding activities; first-rate golf resorts; luxury accommodations; fine dining; aboriginal song, art, dance and storytelling.

• VANCOUVER

• WHISTLER

• VICTORIA• KELOWNA

BRITISH COLUMBIAA tapestry of sophisticated cities, first-class convention facilities, natural attractions and cultural experiences along Canadaʼs Pacific coast.

URBAN CHIC ON CANADA’S PACIFIC COAST

VANCOUVER tourismvancouver.com

A compelling combination of sophistication and free spirit, Vancouver gets top marks for sustainability and inspired settings. Coastal mountains, rainforests, ocean views and a killer culinary culture, this Winter Olympics host city has it all.Total Guest Rooms13,000Biggest Meeting SpaceVancouver Convention Centre43,339 sq m466,500 sq ftLocal Expertise: Clean Tech; Information & Communications Technologies; Life Sciences; Natural Resources.Group Experiences: Cocktails at the top of Grouse Mountain with iconic Vancouver city, mountain and ocean views; networking among one of the world ̓s best collections of First Nations art or within a classical Chinese garden.

VICTORIA tourismvictoria.com/meeting

A compact and historic seaside city that’s hipster cool thanks to a booming tech scene, an infusion of young entrepreneurs and a love of nature-based adventure.Total Guest Rooms6,100Biggest Meeting SpaceVictoria Conference Centre6,782 sq m73,000 sq ftLocal Expertise: Information & Communications Technologies; Natural Resources.Group Experiences: A gala event in pretty Butchart Gardens; traditional afternoon tea at the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel; an Orca-viewing excursion to the southern Gulf Islands; a networking reception at a local microbrewery.

The Vancouver Convention Centre is an international leader in sustainable meetings and is within walking distance of major hotels and restaurants offering famed West Coast cuisine.

KELOWNA tourismkelowna.com

Sun-soaked and wine-kissed, Kelowna is Canada̓s fastest growing city where delegates appreciate the robust farm-to-table culinary scene, endless vineyards and mountain views. It ̓s the perfect work/play meeting destination.Total Guest Rooms4,500Biggest Meeting SpaceDelta Hotels Grand Okanagan Resort1,305 sq m14,044 sq ftLocal Expertise: Agriculture & Agri-food Manufacturing.Group Experiences: Five distinct wine trails; three ski resorts; Canada ̓s longest golf season; chef-guided cooking classes; cycling through the Myra Canyon.

“Kelowna has become a top destination year-round for our clients’ business events for a number of reasons. Top-notch service, great properties and off-site venues, group activities that will exceed your expectations and a world-class culinary experience that will absolutely WOW your group.”

Meeting Encore

MEETING ENHANCER

Kelowna boasts a robust farm-to-table culinary scene and an internationally acclaimed wine region. Whistler Village, British Columbia

Just minutes from downtown Vancouver, Grouse Mountain offers dramatic 360-degree views

of the city, mountains, wilderness and ocean. Plan a team meeting in the viewpod of

a wind turbine, an exclusive cocktail after-party in the Chalet, or an

afternoon of mountaintop zipline adventure.

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• CALGARY

• JASPER

BANFF | LAKE LOUISE •

• EDMONTON

Glacier Skywalk, Jasper National Park, Alberta

ALBERTAWork, network and draw inspiration in the place where a positive can-do attitude tamed Canada’s West.

BIG IDEAS + SOARING SPIRITS

Canada Olympic Park, Calgary

Stephen Avenue Walk, Calgary, Alberta

CALGARY meetingscalgary.com

Canada’s energy capital is laid-back, cosmopolitan and a first-class meetings host with easy access to green spaces and Canada’s famed Rocky Mountains.Total Guest Rooms14,000Biggest Meeting SpaceBMO Centre24,619 sq m265,000 sq ftLocal Expertise: Agriculture & Agri-food Manufacturing; Clean Tech; Creative Industries; Natural Resources.Group Experiences: Olympic-calibre teambuilding; celebrate cowboy culture; exploring Canada’s music scene.

EDMONTON exploreedmonton.com

It’s the stuff that meetings magic is made of—cutting-edge convention facilities, Canada’s largest sports and entertainment district, a collaborative spirit and vibrant year-round festivals.Total Guest Rooms12,738Biggest Meeting SpaceEdmonton Expo Centre48,495 sq m522,000 sq ftLocal Expertise: Agriculture & Agri-food Manufacturing; Information & Communications Technologies; Natural Resources; Life Sciences.Group Experiences: A glittering conservatory gala; cocktails at the Art Gallery of Alberta; scavenger hunt in Canada’s biggest shopping mall; Segway excursions along the North Saskatchewan River Valley.

Art Gallery of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Alberta

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BANFF | LAKE LOUISE banfflakelouise.com

Relaxed and informal, Banff and Lake Louise will elevate your meeting. Sophisticated mountainside conference facilities and unique off-site venues.Total Guest Rooms5,600Biggest Meeting SpaceBanff Centre for Arts and Creativity2,030 sq m21,850 sq ftLocal Expertise: Rejuvenation amidst natural surroundings; creative teambuilding exercises.Group Experiences: Skiing the Canadian Rockies; glacier walks; dining among the mountain peaks; Wild West culture and cuisine at a traditional dance barn or saloon.

JASPER jasper.travel

Rustic luxury, distraction-free seclusion and plenty of room to breathe, collaborate and create amid stunning glaciers and dramatic mountain vistas.Total Guest Rooms1,061Biggest Meeting SpaceFairmont Jasper Park Lodge916 sq m9,856 sq ftLocal Expertise: Finding inspiration in nature; abundant creative teambuilding options.Group Experiences: Paddling pristine, turquoise-coloured waters; navigating the icy terrain of an ancient glacier; roaring bonfires and a grand Canadian cookout on a tranquil mountain lake.

Expect Olympic-calibre teambuilding activities and

events, with inspiration drawn from Calgaryʼs experience

as a Winter Games host.

“Your city has a good deal of charm, very clean; the people are what made it. I’m not sure I have ever been to a city where everyone, and I do mean everyone all the way to the cab drivers, were so friendly”

American College of Osteopathic Internists

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The Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity offers exceptional service and a unique, edge-of-mountain conference experience.

Calgary is famous for its White Hat hospitality.

12 BUSINESS EVENTS CANADA BUSINESS EVENTS CANADA 13businesseventscanada.ca #meetincanada MEETINGS INCENTIVES MEETINGS INCENTIVES

PRAIRIESExpect the red carpet treatment alongside big city amenities and friendly, professional services in the Canadian Prairies.

• WINNIPEG

• SASKATOON

BIG CITY VIBE MEETS MIDWEST WARMTHSip cocktails and snap selfies with polar bears and seals at Winnipegʼs internationally acclaimed Assiniboine Park Zoo.

Be inspired and empowered at Winnipegʼs Canadian Museum for Human Rights, the first museum of its kind in the world and an inclusive and powerful setting for any gathering.

WINNIPEG meetingswinnipeg.com

Polished and diverse, Winnipeg impresses with its welcoming Prairie vibe, cultural leadership, newly expanded convention facilities and devotion to local sports culture.Total Guest Rooms6,600Biggest Meeting SpaceRBC Convention Centre24,526 sq m264,000 sq ftLocal Expertise: Aerospace Technologies; Agriculture & Agri-food Manufacturing; Clean Tech; Financial Services; Information & Communications Technologies; Life Sciences.Group Experiences: Exceptional dining at The Forks National Historic Site; a lively Hermetic Code Tour of the Manitoba Legislative Building; a rewarding thermal spa experience in a natural outdoor setting.

SASKATOON tourismsaskatoon.com

Thriving, ever changing and bursting with entrepreneurial spirit, Saskatoon is undergoing a cultural, creative and culinary renaissance.Total Guest Rooms4,900Biggest Meeting SpacePrairieland Park Trade & Convention Centre22,296 sq m240,000 sq ftLocal Expertise: Agriculture & Agri-food Manufacturing; Life Sciences; Mining; Nuclear Research.Group Experiences: Exploring Northern Plains aboriginal culture; an elegant gala event at the Remai Modern; touring local farms, craft breweries and distilleries.

REGINA conventionsregina.com

Expect the royal treatment in Regina. Visitors to Saskatchewan’s contemporary and compact capital city enjoy warm Prairie hospitality and a compelling mix of big city culture in a small urban centre.Total Guest Rooms3,800Biggest Meeting SpaceInternational Trade Centre4,051 sq m43,615 sq ftLocal Expertise: Agriculture & Agri-food Manufacturing; Natural Resources.Group Experiences: A Royal Canadian Mounted Police discovery tour; a Prairie-style tailgate party complete with a Pitchfork Fondue and local craft beer.

“We couldn’t have met more outgoing or engaging people, passionate about their city and excited about what the future holds and what they can offer meeting planners.” ConferenceDirect

• REGINA

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Regina, Saskatchewan

Royal Canadian Mounted Police Heritage Centre, Regina, Saskatchewan

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• OTTAWA

WATERLOO • • TORONTO• NIAGARA FALLS

ONTARIOHustle, sophistication, premier venues and amenities define this vibrant region.

CANADA’S ECONOMIC CENTRE

OTTAWA ottawatourism.ca

Rub shoulders with global leaders—Canada’s hip capital city is an international stage, global tech hub, friendly, walkable and diverse with an enviable window on the great outdoors.Total Guest Rooms10,000Biggest Meeting SpaceShaw Centre17,837 sq m192,000 sq ftLocal Expertise: Aerospace; Clean Tech; Defence; Information & Communications Technologies; Life Sciences.Group Experiences: Skating party on the Rideau Canal; gala event at a national museum or gallery; tours of Parliament Hill and historic houses; shared plates and local craft beer in the ByWard Market.

Soar to the top of Toronto’s iconic CN Tower for fine dining and stunning, 360-degree views of Canada’s largest city.

Langdon Hall, a luxury country house hotel in Waterloo Region, provides first-class meeting facilities, fine dining and numerous outdoor event spaces, including a charming Victorian garden.

WATERLOO REGION explorewaterlooregion.com/meetings

A hotbed of innovation. Home to 400+ tech firms, two universities and Google’s largest R&D office in Canada, Waterloo Region serves up an ideal mix of entrepreneurism and hospitality.Total Guest Rooms2,700Biggest Meeting SpaceBingemans Conference Centre4,314 sq m46,000 sq ftLocal Expertise: Information & Communications Technologies.Group Experiences: Refined cuisine at the elegant Langdon Hall country estate; an after-party rave at industrial-chic Lot 42; a guided canoe excursion along the Grand River.

NIAGARA FALLS fallsmeetings.com

A bucket-list beauty, spectacular Niagara Falls is among the world’s natural wonders and home to an award-winning convention centre, casinos, kitschy fun and one of Canada’s hottest wine and culinary regions.Total Guest Rooms14,000Biggest Meeting SpaceScotiabank Convention Centre27,685 sq m298,000 sq ftLocal Expertise: Agriculture & Agri-food Manufacturing.Group Experiences: Unforgettable boat tour views of the Falls; a casino night gala evening; progressive farm-to-table cuisine; icewine tasting and vineyard tours.

A spectacular meeting and event space, the Canadian Museum of History offers an unrivalled view of Parliament Hill.

“It was a very attractive destination, with all the sights and magnetism that a big city such as Toronto can provide. Most of our guests said that this was the best event ever.”

Amway Latin America

TORONTO meetings.seetorontonow.com

Big, metropolitan, culturally diverse and everything you’d expect from a leading convention destination. This skyscraper city offers an endless selection of meeting and event venues, five-star accommodations, major league sports, world-class dining and a renowned theatre district.Total Guest Rooms38,000Biggest Meeting SpaceMetro Toronto Convention Centre55,741 sq m600,000 sq ftLocal Expertise: Agri-food Manufacturing; Clean Tech; Information & Communications Technologies; Life Sciences.Group Experiences: Private VIP box at a major league sport event; stunning city views atop the CN Tower; eclectic international dining; glamorous gala in an urban castle.

Niagara Falls, Ontario

Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto, Ontario

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MONTRÉAL tourisme-montreal.org

It’s easy to fall in love with dazzling Montréal. Cosmopolitan, creative, historic, high-tech, never dull. From the cobbled streets of the old city to the captivating energy of its diverse neighbourhoods, Montréal’s joie de vivre comes shining through.Total Guest Rooms27,000Biggest Meeting SpacePalais des congrès de Montréal Convention Centre51,280 sq m551,520 sq ftLocal Expertise: Aerospace Technologies; Information & Communications Technologies; Life Sciences.Group Experiences: A circus-inspired reception or teambuilding event; a progressive dine around adventure in Old Montréal; jetboats on the Lachine Rapids.

CREATIVITY + EUROPEAN CHARM

TREMBLANT •QUÉBEC CITY •

• MONTRÉAL

“I would definitely recommend Montréal. It’s everything you ever wanted: the food, the people, the way that the architecture is. I’m just fabulously in love with this city.”

Unity Technologies

Québec Cityʼs unique Hôtel de Glace, North America’s only ice hotel, hosts private functions in its Grand Hall and Ice Bar.

QUÉBEC CITY quebecregion.com

The cradle of North American French culture with a distinctly European vibe where 16th century cobblestoned streets meet 21st century conference facilities.Total Guest Rooms17,250Biggest Meeting SpaceQuébec City Convention Centre28,000 sq m300,000 sq ftLocal Expertise: Agriculture & Agri-food Manufacturing; Information & Communications Technologies; Life Sciences.Group Experiences: Scavenger hunt inside the old city walls; networking event overlooking the St. Lawrence River; an operatic performance at the Chapelle du l’Amérique heritage site; maple taffy tasting at an authentic sugar shack.

RUN AWAY WITH THE CIRCUS IN MONTRÉALBook a daring acrobatic performance for an evening gala event, or host an exclusive, daylong teambuilding experience.QUEBEC

Cosmopolitan, historic, creative and chic, Quebec is a cultural crossroads where centuries-old charm meets high-tech innovation.

Québec City, Quebec

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TREMBLANT groups.tremblant.ca

Take your meetings to new heights and inspire fresh thinking in a deluxe chalet amidst ancient mountains and sparkling lakes. Charming mountain village and boutique accommodations less than two hours from Ottawa and Montréal.Total Guest Rooms1,900Biggest Meeting SpaceQuartier Tremblant Base Camp Conference Centre975 sq m10,500 sq ftLocal Expertise: Inspiring landscapes to fuel connection and creativity; top-tier meeting spaces.Group Experiences: Exhilarating alpine skiing; signature cocktails aboard a chartered lake cruise; rustic-chic dining in a historic covered bridge; casino fun atop Mont-Tremblant.

PHOTO: © MADORE, DAPHNÉ CARON

Montréal, Quebec


• HALIFAX

• ST. JOHN’S

• CHARLOTTETOWN

FREDERICTON • • SAINT JOHN

INSPIRATION + ADVENTURE

Burntcoat Head Park, Nova Scotia

HALIFAX discoverhalifaxns.com

This hip harbour city is home to smart meeting venues and a youthful cultural district, not to mention a swirl of postcard-pretty day-trip options—from Peggy’s Cove to the colourful port town of Lunenburg.Total Guest Rooms5,400Biggest Meeting SpaceHalifax Convention Centre11,148 sq m120,000 sq ftLocal Expertise: Aerospace Technologies; Life Sciences; Natural Resources.Group Experiences: Endless lobster and seafood feasts; distinctive east coast musical entertainment; ocean floor scavenger hunts; science-based teambuilding at The Discovery Centre.

GREAT IDEA Dining on the ocean floor is a one-of-a-kind East Coast treat. Enjoy a fresh-caught seafood feast on red sand beaches. Later, sip cocktails cliffside as the rising tides wash sandy footprints away.

ATLANTIC CANADAGenerous hearts and rich cultural traditions where Canada meets the Atlantic Ocean.

JUST OPENED

The bright and airy Halifax Convention Centre offers 120,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting and event space and is a short stroll to the lively Halifax waterfront.

CHARLOTTETOWN meetingsandconventionspei.com

Historic charm, harbour views, a hyper-local culinary scene, state-of-the-art convention facilities and dozens of red sand beaches define this unique island destination.Total Guest Rooms1,500Biggest Meeting Space

PEI Convention Centre4,645 sq m 50,000 sq ftLocal Expertise: Agriculture & Agri-food Manufacturing; Biotech; Information & Communications Technologies.Group Experiences: Lobster suppers; endless golf options; VIP day at the races; sunset cocktails, oyster shucking and a mussel-tasting bar at Peake̓s Quay.

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Enjoy stunning views of the Charlottetown waterfront from the PEI Convention Centre, a flexible meeting and event space just minutes from historic boutique accommodations.

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SAINT JOHN discoversaintjohn.com

Historic Saint John is a colourful, compact seaport boasting connected convention facilities, great value and the world ̓s highest tides along the Bay of Fundy. Total Guest Rooms1,800Biggest Meeting SpaceSaint John Trade & Convention Centre1,406 sq m15,136 sq ftLocal Expertise: Information & Communications Technologies; Health Care; Natural Resources.Group Experiences: Paddling the Bay of Fundy; exploring secret caves and hidden beaches; feasting on Acadian caviar and microbrews.

FREDERICTON tourismfredericton.ca

Expect the personal touch in New Brunswick’s innovative capital city—an entrepreneurial and progressive high-tech hub brimming with small-town charm.Total Guest Rooms2,000Biggest Meeting SpaceFredericton Convention Centre3,345 sq m36,000 sq ftLocal Expertise: Natural Resources.Group Experiences: A rollicking Maritime kitchen party; a royal reception at the 19th century Government House mansion; cocktails amid the treasures at the Beaverbrook Art Gallery.

ST. JOHN’S destinationstjohns.com

Famous for its easygoing charisma and welcoming hospitality, St. John’s is the closest point between North America and Europe. Expect first-rate convention and meeting spaces, colourful characters and compelling storytellers.Total Guest Rooms2,600Biggest Meeting SpaceSt. John’s Convention Centre4,366 sq m47,000 sq ftLocal Expertise: Natural Resources.Group Experiences: A rollicking pub crawl and non-stop music along George Street; a photo safari to Iceberg Alley; teambuilding activities at Signal Hill National Historic Site.

The Beaverbrook Art Gallery in Fredericton provides a welcoming place to meet amid its collection of Canadian, British and international masterworks.

St. Johnʼs, Newfoundland and Labrador

Experience authentic East Coast culture at the New Brunswick Museum’s Hall of Great Whales in Saint John.

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PHOTO: MEETINGS & CONVENTIONS PEI“I love the city… Your heritage and history give you so many stories to tell and you have the personalities in the community to tell them. The activities you can offer to the wider event programme are truly unique…”

HelmsBriscoe (UK)


Head out on the tundra for front row views of magnificent polar bears in their natural habitat in Churchill. Naturalists, habitat experts and a personal chef come along for an expedition that will capture your heart.

YELLOWKNIFE conferences.spectacularnwt.com

Conferences shine in Yellowknife, Canada’s biggest little city where First Nations cultural experiences, rugged landscapes and boundless nature inspire fresh thinking.Total Guest Rooms857Biggest Meeting SpaceChateau Nova Yellowknife558 sq m6,000 sq ftLocal Expertise: Natural resources R&D; Oil & Gas; Mining.Legendary Experiences: Fishing tournament at a remote backcountry lodge; shore lunches in the Canadian wilderness; hiking a boreal forest; learning the architecture and art of igloo building.

WHITEHORSE meetingsyukon.com

Heed the call of the wild; discover Klondike history and rich First Nations culture. Expect off-the-grid comfort, inspiration and productivity in summer ̓s land of the midnight sun.Total Guest Rooms830Biggest Meeting SpaceCoast High Country Inn840 sq m9,039 sq ftLocal Expertise: A balance of formal meetings, informal gatherings and robust recreational activities.Legendary Experiences: dogsled racing; networking under the Northern Lights; paddling the Yukon River; Kwanlin Dün First Nation cuisine, traditional drumming, song and dance.

“Ours was a northern experience that our delegates won’t soon forget… The event itself, held in a stunning location, was a success and we thank you once again for your hospitality.”

Fédération nationale des conseils scolaires francophones

CANADA’S LEGENDARY EXPERIENCES Take the road less travelled. Canada’s majestic wilderness provides the perfect setting for authentic, immersive and uniquely Canadian adventures.

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER EXPERIENCE rockymountaineer.com/groups-ca

Seven mountain ranges. Four unique routes. Rail travel through the majestic Rocky Mountains is a quintessential Canadian experience and the ultimate reward. By day, stunning vistas provide the backdrop to business brainstorming. By night, settle in at five-star mountain resorts along the way.Ideal Group Size16 or more guestsLocal Expertise: Out-of-the-box thinking; immersive, uninterrupted experiences.Legendary Experiences: Fine dining on-board; unique experiences along the route including an Athabasca Glacier adventure; western-themed barbecue in Lake Louise; dinner and dancing atop Banff ̓s Sulphur Mountain.

FOGO ISLAND fogoislandinn.ca

Perched at the edge of the mighty North Atlantic, the stylish Fogo Island Inn specializes in resilience, renewal and community connection. Expect untamed shores, brilliant sunsets, glorious sunrises and drifting icebergs.Ideal Group Size10 to 60Local Expertise: Artistic innovation and community connections.Legendary Experiences: Inspiring artist-led workshops in sketching, painting and photography; a boisterous evening shed party featuring local musicians and storytellers.

CHURCHILL everythingchurchill.com

Churchill delivers the majesty of the north—boreal forest, open landscapes and the grand waters of Hudson Bay—alongside creature comforts, boutique accommodations and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.Ideal Group Size Up to 24Local Expertise: Off-the-grid insight into Canada ̓s northern communities and the power of nature.Legendary Experiences: Polar bear excursions; gourmet dining under the Northern Lights; snorkeling, kayaking or paddleboarding among the belugas.

Whitehorse, Yukon Blachford Lake Lodge, YellowknifeFogo Island Inn,

Newfoundland and Labrador

Fogo Island Inn, Newfoundland and Labrador

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CLAYOQUOT wildretreat.com

Clayoquot is like a five-star luxury summer camp for grown-ups. Unconventional and secluded, this temperate coastal rainforest ecosystem is perfect for VIP retreats and immersive teambuilding.Ideal Group Size10 to 20Local Expertise: Temperate coastal rainforest ecosystems and wilderness habitats.Legendary Experiences: Target shooting and archery competitions; paddling, rock climbing and hiking high above the clouds.


Breathtaking views and indulgent experiences that reward, motivate and inspire top performers. Here are just a few of the many luxury retreat destinations in Canada.

CANADA’S LUXURY RETREATS

JW MARRIOTT THE ROSSEAU MUSKOKA, ONTARIO therosseau.com

Experience the pleasures of Canada ̓s fabled cottage country. Embrace every season Canadian-style, from flavourful culinary experiences to canoe regattas and stargazing parties.Total Guest Rooms221Biggest Meeting Space585 sq m6,300 sq ftLocal Expertise: Intuitive service; creative and customized teambuilding activities in a natural wilderness setting.Luxury Experiences: Smartphone scavenger hunts; off-road Segways; canoe regattas; gourmet al fresco dining and luxury resort accommodations.

FOX HARB’R RESORT NOVA SCOTIA foxharbr.com/events

Experience Atlantic Canada̓s famous hospitality in an exceptional oceanside setting. From boardroom to beach, the Fox Harb’r Resort balances luxurious amenities with upscale experiences.Total Guest Rooms88Biggest Meeting Space250 sq m2,700 sq ftLocal Expertise: Maritime hospitality, dining and cultural experiences with a luxury twist.Luxury Experiences: International calibre golf; classic lobster boil dinner; private vineyard tours and wine tastings; certified sporting clay shooting range.

Wickaninnish Inn, British Columbia Fox Harbʼr Resort, Nova ScotiaPHO

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SONORA RESORT BRITISH COLUMBIA sonoraresort.com

Set in a forest cathedral of ancient cedars, this West Coast paradise offers seclusion, opulent luxuries and out-of-this-world experiences. Accessible only by air or sea.Total Guest Rooms88Biggest Meeting Space669 sq m7,200 sq ftLocal Expertise: First-class service, amenities and natural experiences in an isolated wilderness retreat.Luxury Experiences: Salmon fishing derbies in pristine wilderness; guided eco-excursions and wildlife photography safaris to view bald eagles, seals, orcas and grizzlies.

SPARKLING HILL RESORT BRITISH COLUMBIA sparklinghill.com

Meet, retreat and follow your bliss in British Columbia ̓s famous Okanagan Valley. Local flavours, extraordinary pampering and exclusive buyout options at Sparkling Hill Resort, complete this wellness adventure.Total Guest Rooms149Biggest Meeting Space250 sq m2,690 sq ftLocal Expertise: Emphasis on personal wellness, communication, positive interactions and stress management.Luxury Experiences: Golf playing tips from a PGA pro; whole-body wellness spa treatments; vineyard tours, wine tasting and dining at Mission Hill Estate Winery.

WICKANINNISH INN BRITISH COLUMBIA tourismtofino.com

A luxury retreat on Vancouver Island where endless beaches, thundering waves and ancient rainforests providing the backdrop to modern meeting spaces and luxurious accommodations.Ideal Group Size20 to 120Local Expertise: Sustainability, appreciation for the visual, culinary and musical arts.Luxury Experiences: Private surfing tutorial; exclusive oceanside dining featuring the finest seafood and local ingredients.

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JW Marriott, The Rosseau, Muskoka, Ontario

PHOTO: JW MARRIOTT, THE ROSSEAU, MUSKOKA

“The Wickaninnish Inn really does provide the entire package: unbelievable scenery, world-class accommodations, unforgettable dining and unparalleled service. We hope to be back soon!”

Cubed, Inc.


CANADA’S LUXURY RETREATS

FAIRMONT CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE, ALBERTA fairmont.com/lake-louise

Soaring mountain peaks and a majestic glacier form the backdrop to inspiring group gatherings, whether outside sipping cocktails at the ice bar or inside one of the hotel’s spectacular meeting and event spaces.Total Guest Rooms552Biggest Meeting Space823 sq m8,856 sq ftLocal Expertise: Unique winter-focused programming; environmental responsibility; acclaimed five-star service.Luxury Experiences: Exclusive helicopter tour of the Columbia Icefields and Canadian Rockies; hiking and horseback riding; innovative European alpine cuisine.

FAIRMONT BANFF SPRINGS, ALBERTA fairmont.com/banff-springs

Five-star luxury in the heart of Banff National Park. Canada’s famous Castle in the Rockies pampers and motivates with luxurious accommodations and award-winning culinary experiences.Total Guest Rooms764Biggest Meeting Space1,376 sq m14,815 sq ftLocal Expertise: Dynamic networking events amid Canada’s fabled mountain scenery.Luxury Experiences: Private dining atop Mount Norquay; on-site private golf course; exclusive mountainside concerts at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity.

FAIRMONT LE CHÂTEAU MONTEBELLO, QUEBEC fairmont.com/montebello

A sprawling red-cedar lodge on the shores of the Ottawa River, the Fairmont Le Château Montebello has welcomed royalty, G7 and NATO summits. Total Guest Rooms211Biggest Meeting Space389 sq m4,184 sq ftLocal Expertise: Off-the-grid teambuilding activities in easily accessed locations.Luxury Experiences: Land Rover off-road driving experience; geo-cache adventures; horse-drawn sleighs or carriages to the Château for an elegant 19th century-inspired feast.

FAIRMONT LE MANOIR RICHELIEU CHARLEVOIX QUEBEC tourisme-charlevoix.com/en/business

Tucked between the Laurentian foothills and the majestic St. Lawrence River, the Charlevoix region is a storied setting for global summits and VIP retreats. Total Guest Rooms405Biggest Meeting Space942 sq m10,144 sq ftLocal Expertise: World-class artistic, culinary and outdoor adventures.Luxury Experiences: A guided gourmet tasting tour through Quebec’s famed Charlevoix region; whale watching; snowmobiling trails; 27-hole golf course.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Alberta Fairmont Le Château Montebello, Quebec Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu, QuebecPHO

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Fairmont Banff Springs, Alberta

“We recently hosted a series of meetings with the senior team at Fairmont Montebello. From start to finish, our visit was very enjoyable; the meeting space, teambuilding event and evening dinners were perfect.”

Schneider Electric

26 BUSINESS EVENTS CANADA BUSINESS EVENTS CANADA 27businesseventscanada.ca #meetincanada

URBAN TOTAL GUEST ROOMS BIGGEST MEETING SPACE

Calgary 14,000 24,619 sq m | 265,000 sq ft

Charlottetown 1,500 4,646 sq m | 50,000 sq ft

Edmonton 12,738 48,495 sq m | 522,000 sq ft

Fredericton 2,000 3,345 sq m | 36,000 sq ft

Halifax 5,400 11,148 sq m | 120,000 sq ft

Kelowna 4,500 1,305 sq m | 14,044 sq ft

Montréal 27,000 51,280 sq m | 551,520 sq ft

Niagara Falls 14,000 27,685 sq m | 298,000 sq ft

Ottawa 10,000 17,837 sq m | 192,000 sq ft

Québec City 17,250 28,000 sq m | 300,000 sq ft

Regina 3,800 4,051 sq m | 43,615 sq ft

Saint John 1,800 1,406 sq m | 15,136 sq ft

Saskatoon 4,900 22,296 sq m | 240,000 sq ft

St. John ̓s 2,600 4,366 sq m | 47,000 sq ft

Toronto 38,000 55,741 sq m | 600,000 sq ft

Vancouver 13,000 43,339 sq m | 466,500 sq ft

Victoria 6,100 6,782 sq m | 73,000 sq ft

Waterloo Region 2,700 4,314 sq m | 46,000 sq ft

Winnipeg 6,600 24,526 sq m | 264,000 sq ft

RESORT TOTAL GUEST ROOMS BIGGEST MEETING SPACE

Banff | Lake Louise 5,600 2,030 sq m | 21,850 sq ft

Jasper 1,061 916 sq m | 9,856 sq ft

Tremblant 1,900 975 sq m | 10,500 sq ft

Whistler 3,620 3,716 sq m | 40,000 sq ft

LEGENDARY DESTINATIONS

IDEAL GROUP SIZE

BIGGEST MEETING SPACE

Churchill 10 to 60 Guests Up to 100 For Meals

Clayoquot 10 to 20 Guests

Fogo Island 10 to 60 Guests

Rocky Mountaineer Experience

Up to 136 Guests Up to 36 Guests For Receptions

Whitehorse 850 Rooms 840 sq m | 9,039 sq ft

Yellowknife 857 Rooms 558 sq m | 6,000 sq ft

LUXURY DESTINATIONS

TOTAL GUEST ROOMS

BIGGEST MEETING SPACE

Fairmont Banff Springs

764 Rooms 1,376 sq m | 14,815 sq ft

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

552 Rooms 823 sq m | 8,856 sq ft

Fairmont Le Château Montebello

211 Rooms 389 sq m | 4,184 sq ft

Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu Charlevoix

405 Rooms 942 sq m | 10,144 sq ft

Fox Harb ̓ r Resort 88 Rooms 250 sq m | 2,700 sq ft

JW Marriott, The Rosseau, Muskoka

221 Rooms 585 sq m | 6,300 sq ft

Sonora Resort 88 Rooms 669 sq m | 7,200 sq ft

Sparkling Hill Resort 149 Rooms 250 sq m | 2,690 sq ft

Wickaninnish Inn 20 to 120 Guests

RESOURCES FOR PLANNERS

DESTINATIONS

* Estimated flight times (in hours) based on the most direct routes available at time of publication (Expedia.ca, travelling May and June 2018). Flight times are subject to change based on the time of year travelling and the available flights offered by airlines. Direct flights may be seasonal between some destinations.

CANADA FAST FACTS

SAMPLE FLIGHT TIMES TO CANADA*

Touch down in our hub cities within hours from the US, UK and Europe. Canada̓s largest urban centres are within 160 km (100 mi) of the US border, which means faster direct flights.

Money in Canada is in dollars and cents. Fun fact: Canada ̓s $1 coin is called a loonie because it bears the image of a common loon.

English and French are Canada ̓s two official languages. While English is the predominant language throughout the country, Canada is a multicultural country where hundreds of languages are spoken.

The metric system of measurement is used in Canada. Visitors will find weather reports given in degrees Celsius, gas and oil sold by litres and road speeds posted in kilometres per hour.

Canada Border Services Agency welcomes meeting groups daily, but come prepared: Canada requires all persons entering the country to carry both proof of citizenship and identity. To learn more about the entry and exit requirements of people and goods temporarily entering Canada for business events, search “International Events” at cbsa.gc.ca.

Victoria, British Columbia

Lobster feast, St. Johnʼs, Newfoundland and Labrador

CHICAGO DALLAS- FORT WORTH

LOS ANGELES MIAMI NEW YORK WASHINGTON D.C. BRUSSELS FRANKFURT LONDON PARIS

CALGARY 4 4 3 8 5.5 6.5 11 9.5 9 11

EDMONTON 5.5 5.5 3.5 9 6.5 6.75 12.5 12 11.5 10.5HALIFAX 4.5 6.5 8 6.5 2.5 4 10.5 10 6.5 10.5

MONTRÉAL 2 3.5 5 3.5 1.5 1.5 7.5 7.5 7 7.5

OTTAWA 2 5.5 7.5 5.5 1.5 1.5 9 9 8.5 8.5

QUÉBEC CITY 4.5 7.5 8 6.5 3.5 3.75 9 9 8.5 8

SASKATOON 5 5.75 5.75 7.25 6.75 6.5 14.25 11.5 11.5 14ST. JOHN’S 6.5 9 10 10.5 6.5 6 10 8 5 8TORONTO 1.5 3 4.5 3 1.5 1.5 8 8.5 7.5 8VANCOUVER 4.5 4.5 2.5 8.5 6 5.75 12.5 10 9.5 12.5VICTORIA 6 6.5 5 10 7.5 7.5 13 12 11 13.5WINNIPEG 2.5 5 5.5 6.5 6 5 12 12.5 12 12

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