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Canadian travellers value comfort and style: Emirates

Canadians embrace holiday travel to reap the benefits of quieter departure dates. In fact, according to a new survey from Emirates , 64 per cent of Canadian travelers say they would travel on Christmas to escape airport crowds. This kind of discerning decision-making is common for Canadians, with survey respondents showing a clear desire to maximize value for money: nearly a third (30 per cent) of Canadian travelers say that food and drink matters and makes a difference to their flying experience, while the vast majority (69 per cent) agree that comfortable seats would most enhance their experience on a long-haul flight.


December 22, 2015  By Emirates

“Canadians are habitual holidaymakers. In fact, thirty five per cent of Canadian travelers take international trips at least once a year,” explains Don McWilliam, Canada Country Manager for Emirates. “As a result, they are smart about how and when they choose to travel. Offering exceptional product and service at every level of the experience – when booking, when in the air and after landing – is essential for airlines looking to attract and retain these savvy consumers.”

Many Canadian travellers note that their time in the air has an affect that extends beyond the flight. When asked how they adjust to local time zones following an international, long-haul flight, the most popular response was to play it by ear depending how the in-flight experience was. Whether it’s uncomfortable seats, the number one frustration for 32 per cent of Canadian travellers, or limited leg room, which most bothers 27 per cent of those surveyed, it’s clear that an unpleasant or uneasy flight has the potential to disrupt the onward journey that follows.

“It’s important for airlines to think about every kind of traveler,” continues McWilliam. “On Emirates, for example, we make special arrangements for families with young children, offering Fly with Me toys, activity bags and an impressive selection of youth programming. These little details make a huge impact, and really help to ensure your vacation gets off to a strong start.”

Other survey findings include:

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· Generous gift-givers: 38 per cent of those surveyed said they would give a vacation as a holiday gift, and 10 per cent already have.

· Airplane alone-time: When asked with whom they most often travel internationally, 54 per cent said their partners.

· Savvy shoppers: Canadians use a wide variety of methods to book their personal travel, with an event split between airline websites, travel agencies and online travel websites (each selected by 31 per cent of respondents).

Emirates currently offers three weekly flights from Toronto to Dubai and beyond as well as convenient connections throughout Canada on its flagship A380.

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