FarCloser Travel was fortunate enough to have been selected by Startup Calgary and Calgary Economic Development to represent the thriving tech scene in Calgary along with 23 other incredible companies, at the Collision Conference in Toronto in last month.   Not only did we get to learn from some of the leading brands in the world about building and running a world-changing company, but we also got to meet some incredible people from all over the world.  People from all over the world stopped by our booth and shared their stories of incredible experiences they’ve had when travelling the world and seeing their destinations with the help of a local tour operator and it really helped solidify our mission to help facilitate those kinds of interactions.

We also got to meet a number of amazing entrepreneurs who are building their dreams to help make the world a better place.  While we could list dozens, these are a few that stood out for us.  Whether it’s their involvement in the world of travel (which we’re obviously fans of) or the ways their values align with our’s, we’re really excited to watch these companies grow and see where they end up.  If any of them interest you, I’m sure they’d appreciate your support as well.

Chez Dine – Twitter: @chez_dine

Chez Dine connects people who like to cook with people who like to eat by facilitating unique dining experiences anywhere in the world.  This Ontario based company is bringing people together over their shared love of food to help us reconnect with loved ones and strangers alike – a movement we can definitely get behind!  If you know a chef, cook, restaurant or anyone wanting to share their creations with new people, reach out to them to find out how to get involved.

Wayaj – Twitter: @WayajApp

Wayaj is a travel app designed to explore and book sustainable and socially responsible destinations across the world.  Like the organic food industry, sometimes it can be hard to know whether something is truly ‘organic’ and by who’s standards.  Waynaj is trying to make it easier for people looking for social and eco-sustainable travel options find, and book their next getaway by providing clear standards that simplify the process.  If these are important aspects that you consider when travelling, check out their site and partners.

Pack Up + Go – Twitter: @Packupgo_travel

Pack Up + Go is a travel agency that plans 3-day getaways around the U.S. The catch? Your destination is a mystery until the day you depart!  Are you tired of the “where should we go” decision process involved in short getaways?  Take the stress away and add some adventure to your long weekends with Pack Up + Go.  They make all the arrangements and you just show up!  Discover new places and experiences that you may never have thought of and without any of the hassle!  Currently operating trips in the US only but hopefully will be coming to Canada soon!

UgonnaFish

UgonnaFish allows millions of anglers to book fishing trips worldwide and for fishing guides & lodges to easily sell and manage their trips.  With a husband and co-founder who is fishing-mad, we had to mention UgonnaFish.  It’s a marketplace that connects anglers with some of the best fishing experiences in the world.  A must-visit site for anyone looking to make the most of their fishing getaways.

Timeshifter

Timeshifter – Timeshifter® – The Jet Lag App® – is developed with world-renowned scientists, based on the latest research in sleep and circadian neuroscience. With Timeshifter, you can create your own personalized jet lag plans based on your sleep pattern, chronotype, itinerary, and optional preferences.  If jet lag is causing you to miss out on what should be enjoyable vacation days or production business trips, check out Timeshifter before your next long haul flight to get your time back!