Fort Myers turned up the heat as the official travel sponsor of the Hello! Canada x Toronto Life Magazine Hollywood North Party at this year's Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).
Open Jaw's Natasha McKenty mingled with over 200 VIP guests at the event in Toronto on 05SEP.
The evening began with an intimate cocktail party for travel partners where appetizers and conversation flowed freely.
Guests were greeted by the warmth of the atmosphere and the hospitality of the Fort Myers team.
Jeanette Faria, Account Manager for Fort Myers - Islands, Beaches & Neighborhoods, shared with Open Jaw that although this was the first time the organization had sponsored a TIFF event, the Fort Myers film festival will celebrate its 15th anniversary in 2025.
"[When travellers think of Florida,] they think of Mickey Mouse, Orlando or Miami, but I think we offer the best experience," Faria said.
With 190 miles of kayaking trails, Faria said the area is also the seashell capital of the world, with over 400 different types of shells.
"We have the highest concentration of Bottlenose Dolphins, more canals than Venice, Italy, two spring training teams, numerous golf courses, manatees, and exceptional hotels," she said.
Yet, Sanibel Island maintains its non-commercialized charm.
"Every restaurant, bar, and grocery store is locally owned. It's reminiscent of old Florida," she added.
Faria shared that Fort Myers has "incredible air service" from Toronto Pearson (YYZ) through Air Canada, WestJet and Porter, "with three flights a day arriving through Air Canada, two daily flights with Porter and two flights a day with WestJet."
"We're particularly excited this year because Porter has introduced service from Ottawa and Montreal as well."
She also mentioned that Fort Myers now has a live webcam on its website, allowing visitors to see the destination in real-time.
After a few hours of conversation intertwining business with friendship, the team's handshakes were replaced with hugs as they expressed their hopes of meeting again, echoing the warmth of the destination.
More information on Visit Fort Myers here.
