Tourism Nova Scotia welcomed 17 tour operators on the biggest familiarization (FAM) tour from the United Kingdom to date. Co-hosted with WestJet and to mark the start of the airline’s new and returning direct flights from Europe, we hosted operators from Ireland, Edinburgh and London region. 

Nova Scotia has never been more accessible for visitors from the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland and WestJet is offering a seasonal direct flight to Halifax from London, Dublin and Edinburgh. The London and Dublin service operates four times a week. The Edinburgh service – a new route not previously operated – operates three times a week. 

The FAM tour itinerary travelled our visiting UK tour operators on a journey through historic towns, provincial and national parks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, graceful lighthouses and scenic villages. A line-up of experiences including exploring the ocean floor at low tide in Burntcoat Head Park, discovering our wine country in the Annapolis Valley, immersing in Nova Scotia’s Acadian and Mi’kmaw culture and visiting hidden gems like Digby known as "the scallop capital of the world" were all part of the 6-day adventure. 

Research shows 62% of travellers from the UK consult with a travel agent or tour operator to book their travel to Canada. FAM tours help build first-hand knowledge of the incredible things to see and do in Nova Scotia so tour operators are better able to promote our province to travellers in these markets.

Are you interested in learning how you can work with tour operators and travel agents to attract travellers from the UK? Learn more about your opportunities with our Travel Trade Resources.

Pictured here is our UK FAM tour 2024 on day two visiting the Annapolis Valley.
From L to R: Group photo in the red phonebox in the middle of Luckett Vineyards, lunch at Church Brewing Company, and a group photo standing under the Acadia marquee at Al Whittle Theatre.