Wingbuddy is a Montreal-based travel company that creates hassle-free, turnkey travel experiences for explorers of all ages. From flights and transfers to accommodations and unforgettable activities, Wingbuddy designs journeys that take the stress out of travel, so customers can focus on what really matters: discovery, connection, and adventure.
We spoke with Chris Hakim, Founder and CEO of Wingbuddy, to learn how his lifelong passion for travel inspired a company that’s redefining how Canadians experience the world, one seamless trip at a time.
What is your business called and what does it do?
Wingbuddy creates hassle-free, turnkey travel experiences to destinations all over the world. Our purpose is simple: one easy booking unlocks rich, once-in-a-lifetime travel with no hidden fees and no stress. We design every trip with care and take care of flights, transfers, accommodations, and meaningful experiences so travellers can focus entirely on discovery, connection, and enjoying the travel experience.
What made you want to do this work?
I grew up in travel. My mom has been running her own agency here in Quebec for almost 40 years, and that’s where I first learned what it means to take care of travelers. When the web started changing everything, I explored other industries, but I always felt the pull to come back. Travel was in my blood, and I wanted to build something new, something that kept the personal care I grew up with but made discovering the world simple. That’s how Wingbuddy was born. We create hassle-free turnkey travel experiences that take care of every detail, flights, hotels, transfers, activities, so people can skip the stress and focus on what really matters: discovering new places, connecting with new cultures, and making memories that last.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
I noticed that while online travel agencies were improving technology for flights, hotels, and all-inclusive packages, the world of organized, experiential travel had barely changed in decades. Legacy companies were still operating the same way, and planning a rich, turnkey trip was often confusing and full of surprises. I wanted to make these once-in-a-lifetime journeys simple to book, reliable from start to finish, and truly enriching, all in one clear process that travellers can trust.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
Our main travellers are retired and pre-retired, usually between the ages of 50 and 90. But we are seeing more and more people in their 30s and 40s joining us too, and recently we have encouraged solo travellers to enjoy a safe and accessible Wingbuddy travel experience!
How does your business make money? How does it work?
We build strong relationships with local partners, hotels, and airlines to create complete, hassle-free travel packages at great value. This way, travellers get rich experiences and reliable quality without paying more than they should.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
We are an online travel service provider with an office in Montreal and a dedicated team offering exceptional, hassle-free travel experiences to travellers across Canada. You can explore everything we offer at www.wingbuddy.com or call us at 1.855.295.9200.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
The best question is: “Why can’t I just book all the parts of your package on my own?”
The answer: In many cases, especially with our organized group tours, it is simply not possible to recreate the same trip on your own. And with our freedom or semi-organized packages, while you could try to book each piece separately, you would face challenges: matching the same level of quality and seamless coordination is hard, the total cost is often higher, and the time and hassle of planning can be overwhelming.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best part is hearing from travellers when they come back and say their trip was one of the best experiences of their lives. That is why we do what we do.
The hardest part is when things outside our control, like airline issues or third-party disruptions, affect a trip. In those moments, we step in and do everything we can to make sure the traveller still feels cared for and supported.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
“Your job must be easy!” It always makes me smile — if only it were that easy! Behind the scenes, creating and managing these trips is a huge effort: creating the packages, negotiating with partners, managing sales, supporting customers, and making sure everything runs smoothly. It takes smart technology, strong processes, clear priorities, and a team that truly cares to make it look simple.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Chris Hakim | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
We love so many local businesses, but if we had to choose, we would give a special shoutout to our friends at Manmade. They make incredibly comfortable underwear and other great essentials for men who value quality, comfort, and fair pricing. More than the products, it is their team spirit and how much they care about their customers that resonates with us at Wingbuddy.
