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IN BRIEF
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A new original offering is emerging in Brittany: two young entrepreneurs from Vannes and Lorient are launching Apoena Voyages, an online travel platform specifically designed to invite English speakers to discover Brittany from a new perspective. Their approach, focused on “slow tourism” and personalization, aims to showcase the cultural, natural, and gastronomic wealth of the Breton territory. This artisanal project aims to weave connections between foreign travelers and local inhabitants, for an authentic and immersive experience.
In Vannes and Lorient, the emergence of a platform dedicated to English speakers
The idea for Apoena Voyages was born from a personal experience abroad. During his travels in Brazil, Kévin Cado, a Vannes native passionate about travel, noticed how Brittany remained largely unknown to North American and South American travelers. Based on this observation, he envisions an online travel agency offering English speakers an in-depth immersion into the heart of Brittany.
Convinced of the relevance of this initiative, Carmine Frasca, a childhood friend from Lorient, joins the adventure to build a tailored and human-centric structure with him. The name Apoena, meaning “the one who sees further” in Portuguese, perfectly encapsulates the desire to open Brittany to new horizons while respecting its uniqueness.
A personalized concept around slow tourism
Opposed to standardized tourist circuits, the philosophy of Apoena Voyages is based on the art of taking the time to explore. Slow tourism is at the heart of the project: the stays are tailored to the interests of each traveler and narrated like a story in multiple chapters.
Each program highlights the strengths of Brittany: its fascinating history, its culture, its local festivities, its authentic gastronomy, as well as its natural landscapes and architectural heritage. The founders commit to testing every recommended address, guaranteeing a reliable and quality selection. They also offer interactive support throughout the stay, ensuring personalized advice and assistance for travelers.
Creating bridges between Breton and English-speaking cultures
The human dimension of the project is also reflected in the desire to connect visitors and locals. By collaborating with North American and Canadian artists, particularly during the Interceltic Festival of Lorient, the Apoena Voyages team is part of a dynamic of reciprocal exchange and discovery. This year, the festival will actually highlight the theme of “cousins from America”.
The founders have developed links with associations such as Breizh Amerika or the community of Bretons in Quebec, to open new perspectives for English-speaking customers and establish a true bridge between cultures.
An artisanal and connected experience
Apoena Voyages prides itself on an artisanal approach to travel: each itinerary is hand-crafted and carefully designed based on the client’s expectations. Reservations are left to the discretion of travelers, but they benefit from a tested and validated address book, as well as practical and human support before, during, and after their stay.
Thanks to this tailored approach, the team is committed to providing a personalized experience, continuously interacting with its clients to meet all needs that arise along the journey.
Apoena Voyages and innovation in the tourism sector
This project is part of a dynamic of tourism innovation, mirroring new trends such as the international development of travel experience platforms or the digitalization of B2B services. To adapt to customer needs and enhance loyalty, travel club strategies and loyalty programs are also deployed on a global scale.
In this context, Apoena Voyages finds its place by offering an offer that combines digitalization, personalization, and authenticity—essential advantages to attract an English-speaking clientele in search of unique experiences off the beaten path, all while promoting Brittany and its treasures.
To complement their adventure, travelers can equip themselves with suitable items like practical backpacks and optimize their travel with recommendations on the best airlines.
