TMR Canada on Scene: Rendez-vous Kicks Off in Lyon, France

More than 1,500 suppliers, buyers and travel advisors have descended on the city of Lyon this week for Rendez-vous, the country’s annual conference showcasing the latest developments across all regions of France.

France recorded 93 million arrivals in 2023, with Canadians accounting for 1.18 million of them.  The country is still on a high after hosting the 2024 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games, which put a spotlight on its heritage and of course, its fine food and wine.  Overall, international tourism spending drew €71 billion last year.

Atout France, the tourism development office of the country responsible for Rendez-vous, says that over the course of two days, an more than 28,000 business meetings will take place between French suppliers and international distributors.

And though the conference begins today, Travel Market Report Canada has been in France since last week, exploring the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region on a pre-conference FAM trip (many stories to come).

“We’re thrilled that this edition of RDVF takes place in Lyon, Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes, a region that has been very steadily developing on the Canadian market, with staples such as gastronomy and local wines, famous ski resorts and strong economic ties with Canada, namely in Ontario and Québec,” Melanie Paul-Hus, Director, Canada, Atout France told Travel Market Report Canada. “The Rhone river is obviously one of the most attractive itineraries after the Seine, too!”

Monday night’s welcome event was held at the Musee de Confluences and featured regional food and wine complete with a performance by a ballerina.

“We love coming to Rendez-vous every year as it helps ensure we stay up to date on the latest product offerings and stay connected with our key suppliers,” said Vincent Veerasuntharam, President, Connaissance Travel and Tours.  “Plus, it’s great to see and catch up with so many of our travel industry colleagues from around the world.”

Ingryd Rizzo, Product Manager for Kensington Tours agrees.

“It’s exciting to be here, so much of France is represented. During the conference you can get face to face time with existing partners, learn about new regions, ways to discover/ promote the destination. You can also meet and start conversations that can lead to new partnerships.

Possibilities and opportunities are endless.”