36 minute read
Sunwing Gift Cards are here
Sunwing gives the gift of travel with Sunwing Gift Cards
TORONTO — It will be a very merry holiday season indeed with newly launched Sunwing Gift Cards.
Available now, the digital gift cards can be purchased online at sunwing. ca in denominations ranging from $50 to $2,500. Gift cards can be easily redeemed online, with travel agents or through the Sunwing Sales Centre, and can be used towards the purchase of any Sunwing product including vacation packages, fl ights, room upgrades, excursions, private transfers and more. The launch of Sunwing Gift Cards comes on the heels of Sunwing’s new survey, which found that 71% of Canadians are interested in receiving the gift of an experience this holiday season. Survey results also found that 80% of Canadians are interested in receiving a gift card, and 59% are receptive to a gift card that can be used towards an all-inclusive vacation. Additional fi ndings include: • 76% of Canadians with a household income of $100,000 or more are interested in receiving the gift of an experience, followed by those earning between $50,000 and $100,000 (70%) and those earning under $50,000 (66%), respectively • Adults aged 18-34 are most eager to receive a gift card, with 83% of respondents in this age group saying they would be interested in a gift card this holiday season, followed closely by 81% of respondents aged 35-54 and 77% of Canadians 55 years of age and older • Quebec tops the list of provinces with the highest percentage of respondents who are very interested in receiving a gift card for the holidays at 50%, followed by Manitoba at 46%
The survey was conducted by Sunwing among members of the Angus Reid Forum between Nov. 30-Dec. 1 2021, with a nationally representative sample of 1,511 Canadians, in both English and French. “Sunwing Gift Cards are the perfect present for everyone on your gift list this year,” commented Samantha Taylor, Chief Marketing Offi cer at Sunwing Travel Group. “More Canadians are dreaming of a tropical getaway, and our newly launched gift cards are an excellent option since they can be used towards a vacation from start to fi nish, including fl ights, hotels and excursions. Our research shows that an overwhelming percentage of Canadians are eager to receive a gift card this festive season, with nearly threefi fths keen to receive a gift card for an all-inclusive vacation. Plus, Sunwing Gift Cards don’t expire so they can be redeemed whenever customers are ready and able to travel.”
Gift card recipients can choose from a range of vacation packages for every travel style, whether they’re planning a family vacation, a getaway with friends, or a romantic adults-only retreat. Plus, customers can change their plans anytime with no fees and travel with confi dence thanks to complimentary COVID-19 medical coverage included on most all-inclusive packages booked between Sept. 27, 2021 and Jan. 17, 2022, for travel between Nov. 1, 2021 and April 30, 2022.
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HEROES & LEGENDS
TICO making it easier for former registrants to be reinstated
TORONTO — TICO has updated its Registrant Reinstatement Policy to encourage registrants to consider reinstatement without additional fees. Noting the financial difficulties brought on by the pandemic, TICO says that some registrants were forced to either voluntarily terminate or allow their registration to expire. With the updated policy, which went into effect on Dec. 6, 2021, former registrants may be reinstated and the new application fee will be waived. The policy will be available up to March 31, 2023, for any former TICO registrant that voluntarily terminated their registration or allowed their registration to expire from April 1, 2020, onwards. According to an official statement, TICO believes this policy will be of benefit to certain individuals and/or former registrants who have chosen to voluntarily terminate their TICO registration or allow their registration to expire or leave the industry altogether during the pandemic but have the desire to re-engage and sell travel services as an Ontario registrant. Here is the policy in full: Part IV of the Travel Industry Act (Act) provides the overall requirements for a new registration and annual renewal, including when the registrar may refuse, revoke, or suspend a registration. Further, Ontario Regulation 26/05 (Regulation), Part II, provides the requirements for a new application, including forms and fees. Recognizing the delivery of travel services to consumers has evolved with the advancement of new business models, and the impact of the global pandemic on the travel industry, TICO wishes to ensure that the marketplace remains vibrant and that purchasing options for consumers remains robust.
With this goal, TICO wishes to clarify its policy with respect to a former registrant that wishes to reinstate their registration after voluntarily terminating their registration with TICO or allowing their registration to expire.
There are numerous reasons that a former registrant may wish to reinstate their registration. TICO will approve a reinstatement of any former registrant under the following conditions: 1. At the date of the voluntary termination / expiration of a registrant, there must not have been any unresolved compliance issues, claims against the Compensation Fund and/or other outstanding financial compliance requirements; 2. At the date of the voluntary termi-
nation/expiration of a registrant, all fees* owing to TICO, up to the date of the termination / expiration, under the Act or Regulation must have been paid in full; 3.The person applying for reinstatement must not have been charged with an offence and a CPIC check will be required; 4.If the former registrant has been employed, or contracted, by a TICO registrant, he/she must not have been terminated for reasons associated with the lack of honesty and integrity detrimental to the travelling public, in the view of the registrar, and 5.All other requirements for registration and renewal are met.
If all the above conditions have been achieved, the former registrant may be reinstated and the new application fee will be waived. A security deposit will not be required if the former registrant had filed two consecutive annual financial statements or verification statements with TICO, and the Registrar has no concerns with compliance to the legislation. All reasonable efforts will be undertaken to re-issue the same registration number as previously used.
TAP Air Portugal now allowing reservations without fees
NEW YORK — TAP Air Portugal has introduced enhanced flexibility for passengers, allowing them to now change bookings on all fares, including Discount.
Passengers can now change the date, destination or leave the ticket open, without fees, on travel booked until Feb. 28, 2022. There is no change fee and no limit on changes (fare differences may apply). Tickets must comply with the mentioned rules and must be reissued by Feb. 28, 2022. The flight reservation must also be cancelled before the original flight date. The flexibility will not be valid in cases where there has already been a no-show for the flight. For tickets issued by Nov. 30 but with travel between Nov. 28 and Jan. 15, 2022, the booking flexibility is also valid.
The booking change flexibility is then valid for all TAP fares, including Discount. The new travel dates must meet the ticket’s validity date is valid only for TAP fares. It is also valid for tickets issued under the TAP Corporate and TAP Miles&Go programs. Changes made through channels other than the official TAP website and app may have associated fees or costs.
TAP resumed operations from all nine of its North American gateway cities, including Toronto and Montreal, earlier this year. Daily flights currently run to Lisbon from Toronto, while Lisbon-Montreal runs 4x/week.
Cusco, Peru
Swoop launches three new sun routes from Toronto
TORONTO — Swoop is on cloud nine following the launch of three new inaugural flights from Toronto this week.
Departing from Toronto Pearson International Airport on Dec. 4 was new nonstop service to Los Cabos, Mexico, while nonstop flights to Punta Cana departed on Dec. 5. On Dec. 8, the ultra-low-cost carrier launched new nonstop service from Toronto to Kingston, Jamaica.
“The launch of these three new routes demonstrates that Swoop’s accessible and affordable fares have caught on in Toronto and highlights the demand we are seeing for ultra-low fare travel across Canada,” said Bert van der Stege, Head of Commercial and Finance, Swoop. “We know Canadians are long overdue for a warm vacation or reunion with family and friends, and while government-imposed travel restrictions continue to evolve, our travellers require and appreciate clarity and guidance on their upcoming travel plans,” he added.
G Adventures teams up with Hostelworld for new Roamies trips
TORONTO — G Adventures is teaming up with Hostelworld to offer a new style of travel to 18 to 35-year-olds. Called ‘Roamies’, the small-group tours are available in 15 countries, with accommodation in hostels, more than 50 in all. There are 38 tours in the Roamies program and departures start in May 2022. Group size is 16-24 travellers. Countries visited include Albania, Austria, Cambodia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Italy, Mexico, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Peru, Thailand and Vietnam. Sample itineraries for Roamies programs include ‘Gotta-See Europe: Germany, Austria & Italy - Amsterdam to Rome’ (17 days, from $3,849 per person); ‘The Peruvian Coast: Seafood, Sandboarding & Dune Buggies’ (5 days, from $749 per person); and ‘South East Asia Trifecta: Vietnam, Cambodia and Bangkok ‘(11 days, from $1,229 per person). Hostels have generally been a no-go when it comes to travel agent commission, but the Roamies program changes that.
In a Zoom announcement on Dec. 8 about the new partnership, G Adventures founder Bruce Poon Tip said hostels have come a long way. Most people think of rooms filled with bunk beds, but these days there are “swim-up bars and rooftop terraces”, said Poon Tip.
Plus, hostels are at the heart of the tourism eco-system, with a sense of community that matches exactly the G Adventures ethos. “They’re places to start an adventure, and hang out with like-minded people,” he said. The mindset of the traveller has changed during the pandemic, according to G Adventures’ stats. More young travellers are embracing the ‘digital nomad’ lifestyle, combining travel with work on the road. In December 2020 some 19% of respondents to a G Adventures survey said they looked forward to combining travel and work on their trips. Now, more than a year and a half into the pandemic, that number had climbed to 37% in a more recent survey. Hostels offer connections, not just for tech and WiFi, but for solo travellers too, says Poon Tip. Many of G Adventures’ travellers are looking for camaraderie, and also security. Twothirds of G Adventures’ clients are solo travellers, and two-thirds are women. “These Roamies trips capture the free spirit of adventure, with the security of a group, but also take away the label of a ‘tour’. They just bring people together. So we're pretty excited about it.” Hostelworld Group CEO Gary Morrison was also on the Zoom call for the announcement. “I’ve been a big fan of Bruce Poon Tip for years,” said Morrison, adding that the partnership with G Adventures offers an opportunity to create a new type of backpacking adventure for young travellers. “We truly admire G Adventures’ ability to create tailored group tours that put meeting new people and supporting local communities as the focal point, something our customers are extremely passionate about.” Hostelworld has more than 17,000 properties on its platform, he added. Roamies tours will be sold by both G Adventures and Hostelworld, as well as through travel advisors.
For details see gadventures.com/ roamies.
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Enjoy your stay with Infi nite Indulgence®, it’s all included.
For more information, please contact your preferred travel partner, visit PALLADIUMHOTELGROUP.COM or call 1.866.685.8524 Travel agents earn cash rewards by joining our partnership program at PALLADIUMCONNECT.COM
L-R: Gonzalo del Peón, Group President of AMResorts Americas & Global Commercial; Alejandro Reynal, CEO and President of Apple Leisure Group; Mark Hoplamazian, President and CEO of Hyatt; Kevin Wojciechowski, Senior Vice President, Sales and Distribution of AMResorts
AMResorts honours top travel agents at ‘Amazing Agents Celebration’
NEWTON SQUARE, PA — The best of the best was honoured earlier this month at AMResorts’ second annual Amazing Agents Celebration in Cancun, Mexico. Held at AMR Collection’s Dreams Vista Cancun Golf & Spa Resort from Dec. 1-3, the three-day gathering honoured approximately 90 top-performing agents and travel agent leadership from Canada and the United States. Highlights included a welcome reception, executive panel, resort activities, outdoor excursions and a gala to close out the celebration. Agents were also treated to complimentary travel and accommodations for themselves and a guest as well as a sneak peek at the new Breathless Cancun Soul Resort & Spa. Safety measures were implemented during the in-person event, including AMR Collection’s CleanComplete Verification protocols. Kevin Wojciechowski, Senior Vice President, Sales and Distribution of AMResorts, said that the travel agents honoured at this year’s event represent the best in the industry.
“Because of their expertise and leadership, the guests they serve enjoy seamless travel experiences at the finest resorts in Mexico and beyond. Whether guests are looking for an adventurous escape with a group or a romantic getaway, skilled travel agents have the resources and insight to present unmatched experiences,” he said.
Through the duration of the event, AMR Collection rewarded agents with 3.5 million points in giveaways. Agents
Goway’s new Account Manager is industry veteran Ian Smyth
Goway has appointed Ian Smyth as Account Manager in Canada. Smyth was most recently NCL’s Business Development Director. His 20+ years of travel industry experience also includes positions with Fun Sun Vacations, WestJet, and WestJet Vacations.
Smyth says he has long admired Goway as a leader in the travel industry, “for their exceptional reputation amongst the travel agent community and excellence in guest experience.”
He added: “I’m extremely grateful to be a part of the Goway team and look forward to working with my many friends and associates in the industry as we prepare for the rebound in travel in the year ahead.” were also gifted a three-night stay in 2022 at the all-new Secrets Moxché Playa Del Carmen, opening in February. The gala concluded with a surprise award presentation recognizing six agents who, through their exceptional work, had a positive impact in the industry.
Attendees earned their place at this year’s celebration based on the number of room nights registered with AMRewards from January 2019 through Jun 30, 2021. In 2022, agents will have the opportunity to be selected to attend the 2022 Amazing Agents Celebration based on their room nights registered from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022.
For more information on how to qualify for the 2022 Amazing Agent Celebration go to www.AMRewards.com.
TL Network Canada’s in-person Fall Regionals a big success
TORONTO — TL Network Canada’s recent in-person Canadian Fall Regional Conferences in Toronto, Vancouver and Edmonton brought out more than 355 travel agents and some 82 supplier partners. This year’s PEAK theme emphasized TL Network’s tools and training, available to agents to help grow their business and continue their quest to ‘PEAK’: ‘Programs, Education, Advisors and Knowledge.’ The Fall Regional Conferences also facilitated networking opportunities, with supplier partner roundtable discussions and a trade show. “Our Canadian Fall Regional Conferences provided excellent opportunities for both our owner/managers and frontline agents to connect in-person with peers, educate themselves about our top-notch agency enhancing programs and to learn how to tailor them to their own business needs,” says TL Network’s Vice President, Christine James. “Events in each city offered a memorable day of innovation, learning and networking that has proven both popular and successful, year after year, and helped agencies get the most out of their valuable TL Network membership while having fun.” Each Regional Conference featured over three hours of workshops/panels
focusing on the technology, marketing and selling tools available to members, plus frontline agency training, and TL Network program updates. Members also met and networked with supplier partners during the trade show, which was followed by a full-course plated dinner and interactive game show experience with several grand travel prizes, courtesy of TL Network’s supplier partners. New supplier partners this year for TL Network include Hyatt Place Kelowna, in attendance at the Vancouver event. “We are thrilled to be able to work with TL Network and connect with members from the largest, most diverse sales force in North America to promote our new Hyatt Place brand and hotel in the heart of Kelowna,” said GM Cedric Younge. “The trade show was invaluable for us, and agents were so enthusiastic to learn more about the property.”
Costsaver unveils brand new tours in Australia and New Zealand
TORONTO — In anticipation of increased demand for wide, open spaces, Costsaver has announced the addition of Australia and New Zealand to its 2022-2023 product lineup.
Brand new itineraries are now available for booking for travel in 2022 and 2023. These include ‘Cosmopolitan Sydney and Melbourne,’ ‘Tropical Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef,’ and ‘Essence of Southern New Zealand.’
“We saw amazing growth before the pandemic, and with high demand for destinations with plenty of open spaces showing no signs of slowing down, we believe Australia and New Zealand are a natural fit, offering unpackaged and personalized experiences for Canadian clients to get the most out of their vacations,” said Wolf Paunic, President of Trafalgar, Brendan Vacations and Costsaver Canada.
“With no change fees and deposit protection for more flexibility, plus customizable opportunities, we’re confident Costsaver’s momentum will continue to push forward into 2022 and beyond,” he added. On the nine-day ‘Cosmopolitan Sydney and Melbourne,’ guests will explore the Blue Mountains National Park in Sydney, visit trendy cafes in Canberra, take part in a street art tour in Melbourne and more. While on the six-day ‘Tropical Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef,’ guests will explore Daintree Rainforest, join a local Aboriginal Guide at Cooya Beach to learn about the Traditional Custodians of the land, and visit the traditional fishing grounds of the Kuku Yalanji people. Lastly, the seven-day ‘Essence of Southern New Zealand’ starts in Christchurch where guests will explore the Garden City before making their way along Lake Pukaki to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park for a day of hiking. They’ll also spend time in the capital city of Queenstown and enjoy a day in the glacial village of Franz Josef.
As part of these three itineraries, Costsaver has introduced 40 optional experiences for guests to choose from, ranging from surf lessons on Bondi Beach, to spa treatments at Te Waonui Forest Retreat in New Zealand. Past guests can receive 5% off select trips including these new Australia and New Zealand itineraries.
Casa de Campo launches first-tomarket protection plan for guests
LA ROMANA — Casa de Campo Resort & Villas in the Dominican Republic is going above and beyond to put guests’ minds at ease with its new ‘Safe Travels Voyager Protection Plan.’ Created in partnership with Gowrie Group and AeroMD, the first-to-market plan includes 100% trip cancellation coverage, on-island primary medical care, quarantine coverage as well as AeroMD medical evacuation services. It is available immediately for guests of the hotel. Upon booking a stay at the 7,000acre Casa de Campo, guests have the option to add this the exclusive protection plan to their reservation, which covers cancellations for any reason. Guests can also purchase protection should quarantine at the hotel become necessary, and additional room nights will be partially or fully covered based on the selected plan. Lastly, the plan provides coverage of premier medical evacuation services through AeroMD for any medical reason, COVID-19-related or not. “As many people are starting to feel more comfortable travelling again in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, we want to ensure that we have plenty of programs in place that let guests know their safety is our top priority,” said Jason Kycek, Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Casa de Campo. “This offer was created so that our guests can have peace of mind and truly enjoy their vacations.” The Safe Travels Voyager plan covers COVID-19 the same as any other sickness. COVID-19 medical expenses may also be covered and treated the same as any other sickness. Gowrie Group has addressed all the new guidelines in place and will supply a VISA letter for clients when entering Customs. For more information contact Rick Bagnall at rickb@gowrie.com / (860) 391-7161, or Barbie Murray-Orne at barbiem@gowrie.com / (860) 399-3630.
Caroline Proulx
Quebec “is not a consolation prize” - it’s a world-class winter wonderland
By Devin Kinasz
TORONTO — Bonjour Quebec has a strong message heading into this second winter of the pandemic: Quebec should be considered as a first-class option for Canadians booking holidays this year, amid the continued uncertainty with COVID-19. Not only does Quebec has endless outdoor activities in the winter, it also has a high vaccination rate and no testing required for domestic flights.
“Quebec is not a consolation prize. It's a first-class, world class destination, and for many years we did not invest enough in promoting Quebec domestically. We are a winter wonderland, and many of the cultural things travelling to Europe offers, we have right here!” says Caroline Proulx, Quebec’s Minister of Tourism.
Quebec reopened its border with Ontario in July, and now the province represents 30% of visitors. International visitors have returned too, mostly from the U.S. and France.
With the help of domestic demand, summer arrival numbers were superior to 2019, according to Proulx, who updated the industry , at a recent promotional event in Toronto. So far 2022 winter numbers are expected to track higher too, as people flock to the outdoors this winter, she adds. “We're really pushing on the winter activities, whether it's skiing at Mont Tremblant, or the brand new four-season Club Med in Charlevoix, or enjoying our 33,000 kilometres of snowmobile trails across the province with gorgeous little warm up huts along the way,” says Proulx.
The Quebec Winter Carnival is back (Feb. 4-13, 2022), along with Montréal en Lumière / Montreal Lights (Feb. 1727, 2022) and Igloofest (Jan. 13-Feb. 5, 2022). The iconic Quebec Winter Carnival is one of largest winter carnivals in the world, with a variety of outdoor activities that celebrate the season while showcasing the historic charm and culture of the snow-covered city. Club Med’s first North American mountain resort, Club Med Quebec Charlevoix, opened Dec. 3 with views of the St. Lawrence River and an array of family-friendly activities. Visitors can hit the slopes, indulge in the open-air spa, or take a ride down the 7.5-kilometre sledging track. “Everyone is really excited to visit Quebec this year because it’s a winter wonderland! I'm very optimistic for the winter season in Quebec, first and foremost with the high vaccination rate that we have in this province. People feel safe visiting, and we have the passport so we can safely go with others that are vaccinated to festival events, restaurants, venues, you know, so they choose Quebec for that. And that is a great reason to come to Quebec,” explains Proulx.
There are no testing requirements for Canadians flying domestically within Canada, however all air passengers are required to show proof of full vaccination. Quebec has created its own VaxiCode system to show proof of vaccination, but out-of-province visitors may enter places and participate in activities with only the two following documents: valid photo ID with an address outside of Quebec; AND a vaccine passport with QR code OR official proof of vaccination issued by their country or province.
“The measures that the government is asking are just about the same in Quebec as Ontario and other parts of Canada, so it’s not that complicated. You show your passport for restaurants, festivals and events, the same as elsewhere. Everyone is wearing masks indoors, and flying inter-province there are no testing requirements, just proof of vaccination, which makes everything pretty simple,” says Proulx.
Silversea adds new ‘Port-to-Port’ all-in fare ahead of Wave Season
MIAMI — Silversea Cruises is expanding its all-inclusive offerings ahead of Wave Season, giving clients increased flexibility, additional savings and a limited-time reduced deposit of 15%. The luxury cruise line’s new ‘Port-toPort’ fares give travel advisors more options to customize bookings for their clients. “In anticipation of Wave Season, we have enhanced our all-inclusive offering with the addition of a reduced deposit and our new Port-to-Port All-Inclusive promotion, designed specifically for those guests who may prefer to design their own pre- and post-cruise travel arrangements,” says Barbara Muckermann, Chief Commercial Officer, Silversea Cruises. She added: “This gives our travel ad-
visor partners greater ability to create the perfect travel experience for their clients - whether those clients are seasoned luxury travellers or new to Silversea - and thus increase their sales during Wave Season.” Here's a look at the savings: • Door-to-Door All-Inclusive Fares: Silversea's popular Door-to-Door All-Inclusive fares now feature a 15% refundable reduced deposit (normally 25%) on all worldwide voyages sailing through March 31, 2023, if booked by Feb. 28, 2022. Other all-inclusive benefits include roundtrip economy airfare, reduced business class air, or air credit; all airport/hotel/ship transfers, including new private executive transfers from home; pre- and post-cruise hotel night/s or hotel day-rooms; and luggage handling. All are in addition to Silversea's inclusive shore excursions and onboard amenities and services. • Port-to-Port All Inclusive Lower
Fares: Silversea says this new offering should appeal to travellers who prefer to make their pre- and postcruise travel arrangements independently – including their air, hotel, and transfers. The new Port-to-Port All-Inclusive lower fares are now available on selected itineraries and departure dates and offer on average about 25% savings compared to Door-to-Door fares. The Port-to-Port fares, which are subject to availability and offered for a limited number of
Vista and Veranda suites on select voyages, will be revised from timeto-time starting on Feb. 28, 2022. These fares require a non-refundable 15% deposit.
Silversea’s Refund and Cancellation Policy for COVID-19 applies to both rates and benefits new bookings made on sailings through April 30, 2022. Under this policy, clients booked with either fare option can cancel their booking and receive a 100% Future Cruise Credit or a 100% refund for the total cruise fare paid to Silversea if the guest is prohibited from travelling to the vessel due to a governmental travel restriction, or should the passenger or a member of their travelling party test positive for COVID-19 within 30 days of embarkation. When clients opt for the FCC and have paid in full, their travel advisor will have the opportunity to earn commission.
The winning team at TPI’s BATL Axe Throwing event. Goway’s Rares Dumitru (left), Transat’s Pat Brady (second from left) and Railbookers’ Cris David (far right) are pictured here with Sneha Varghese, TPI’s Director of Marketing & Partnerships.
Axe-throwing makes for a fun night for TPI and suppliers
TORONTO — It was the perfect spot for a first in-person get-together in more than 19 months: BATL Axe Throwing.
Earlier this month TPI’s executive and advisors were joined by supplier partners for a fun night of axe-throwing at the Toronto venue. “We wanted to throw axes at COVID while having fun with it and celebrate our partnership with our amazing suppliers,” says Zeina Gedeon, CEO, TPI. “We are so excited that we finally got to see everyone in person and take our frustrations on boards, instead of each other. Our relationship with suppliers is very important and critical for both of us and it is important to be there for each other, in good times and bad times, this is not a one-way street – it is a partnership,” she added.
More than 40 supplier partners came out for the event. Gedeon along with Sneha Varghese, TPI’s Director of Marketing & Partnerships, welcomed participants and thanked all of TPI’s partners for their support and positive attitude over the challenging times.
Gedeon noted that “it has not been an easy road for any of us during these past 20 months, but we could not have come this far without the support of our partners. It is truly a time to celebrate partnerships. Together we are ready to emerge and move forward.” A high-spirited axe throwing battle then ensued, with Transat’s Pat Brady, Goway’s Rares Dumitru and Railbookers’ Cris David celebrated as the winners. TPI’s in-person annual conference is scheduled for May 2022 at Cancun’s Majestic Elegance Costa Mujeres.
Porter to bring back seasonal service to Myrtle Beach
TORONTO — Porter Airlines is bringing back its seasonal service to Myrtle Beach on March 9, 2022. Direct flights from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport will operate twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays, with connecting service from various Porter locations. Service will run until May 28, 2022. “Relax with a trip to sandy beaches and sunshine,” said Michael Deluce, president and CEO, Porter Airlines. “We’re looking forward to returning to another seasonal destination. Myrtle Beach is only a short flight away and is perfect for a short getaway.”
Passengers have the option of booking a flight with the Full Refund Option for $40, plus taxes. The Refund Option allows them to receive a refund, including base fare, taxes and fees, for their booking upon advance cancellation of their flight for any reason. Bookings made before Dec. 31, 2021 are also eligible to change or cancel without fees.
Travellers can also book a Porter Escapes package that includes flight and hotel. Following the Government of Canada’s travel requirement mandates for air passengers, everyone over the age of 12 years and four months departing from a Canadian airport must provide proof of full vaccination. In addition, all passengers over the age of two must follow the United States’ entry requirements and provide a valid COVID-19 test taken within one day of departure and a signed attestation.
THIS ISN'T YOUR ORDINARY BEACH.
FALKLAND ISLANDS & SOUTH GEORGIA.
You’ve heard about the snow-capped mountains, expansive glaciers and sculpted icebergs of the Antarctic—but did you know about the windswept beaches where few humans have ever set foot? Imagine shorelines teeming not with crowds of sunbathing people but with incredible wildlife as far as the eye can see.
Join Quark Expeditions on a journey to Antarctica, Falklands and South Georgia for an unforgettable polar adventure that surpasses all expectations. Visit the sandy beaches of the sub-Antarctic islands of the Falkland Islands and South Georgia, where you’ll encounter thousands of curious king penguins and lounging elephant seals, not to mention great albatrosses soaring overhead. Then, sail further south to explore the rugged shoreline of the Antarctic Peninsula.
The most remote beaches on Earth await you. MULTIPLE DEPARTURES FOR 2021, 2022 & 2023
MIAMI — Crystal has launched its first-ever Zero Single Supplement for solo travellers, just in time for the holidays. The ‘Zero Single Supplement’ promotion is available for the first time on its ocean vessels, and applies to 15 Crystal Symphony voyages to the Caribbean and Mediterranean in 2022. With the promotion, all-inclusive fares start at US$2,299 per person, with savings up to $4,000 per person for an oceanview stateroom. Solo guests can enjoy all of Crystal Symphony’s six-star amenities at double occupancy rates without the supplemental fee typically charged to solo travellers. “Solo travellers are an important segment for Crystal and following our successful rollout of Solo Suites aboard Crystal Mozart that are available on all voyages also without a single supplement, we wanted to provide our solo ocean guests with the same opportunity to take advantage of the incredible value and convenience offered by this promotion,” said Carmen Roig, Crystal’s senior vice president of marketing and sales. The ‘Zero Single Supplement’ promotion is offered on the following Crystal Symphony sailings departing from six convenient homeports in North America and Europe: • Caribbean, 7-night voyages from Miami and San Juan (January through March 2022) • Mediterranean, 7-, 8- and 10-night voyages from Lisbon, Venice, London and Monte Carlo (April, June and August 2022)
Specific dates included in the promotion are available at crystalcruises. com. Guests must book by Jan. 5, 2022 to take advantage of these solo fares, with special reduced deposits of $100 on select sailings. The solo fares apply to oceanview categories on select Crystal Symphony voyages and are combinable with FCC and FCP coupons and Crystal Assured Savings Program (CASP).
Angella Bennett, Regional Director, Canada, Jamaica Tourist Board (far left) pictured with some of the top-selling Canadian Jamaica Travel Specialists at the annual One Love Affair
JTB rewards 20 topselling Canadian agents with free getaway
TRELAWNY, JAMAICA — A group of 20 Canadian travel agents were among those rewarded by the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) for being top sellers in all of North America. The agents, who were all certified experts via the Jamaica Travel Specialist program, were treated to a three-night, all-inclusive trip to Jamaica that included island tours, world-class dining and shopping excursions. The trip culminated with the ‘One Love Affair’ blacktie award gala on Dec. 11 at the Ocean Coral Spring in Trelawny.
“This past weekend we had the opportunity to celebrate and salute our top bookers from the JTS program at Jamaica’s annual One Love Affair,” said Angella Bennett, Regional Director, Canada, Jamaica Tourist Board. “This year’s gala theme, ‘Stronger Together,’ perfectly captures the energy we are feeling from our valued JTS travel advisors and assures us that Jamaica is in good hands when we support each other and work towards a common goal.” The 20 Canadian agents who were invited to participate in the incentive trip are: • Amanda Elizabeth Beaver, Glow
Travel • Amy Marie Wood, Romantic Planet • Cheryl Jaster-Rhyno, Your Travel Boss • Dawn Ann Fairbanks, Grand Travel • Heather Kearns, Destination Weddings Travel Group / Latitude Concierge Travels • Jen Langlois, Suite Trip Travel TPI • Karen Lippett, Latitudes Plus / Smart
Travels • Lois Barbour, Travel Time TPI Inc. • Melissa Jane Britton, Love Voyage • Michelle Lynn Adams, All Ways Travel • Pauline Blacoe, Shine Travel • Ramona L Noor-Ramdeo, Countryside Travel Centre Holidays • Sharon Boissonneault, House of
Travel • Sigfie Constantine Salmon, The Travel Agent Next Door • Tamara Graae, Ixtapa Travel • Tanja Steinbock, Barrett & Carlysle
Travel • Theresa Annmarie Stephenson, TK Travel by Design • Valerie McEneny, Battlefield Travel Inc. • Vanessa Elizabeth Martinez, Unforgettable Escapes • Yvonne Campbell, Yvonne’s Travel and Tours
The Jamaica Travel Specialist Program is a dedicated training platform for travel agents to become certified experts on the destination. The education program includes online courses that deliver insider knowledge and showcase Jamaica’s rich history. In addition to learning about the island, JTS-certified agents earn valuable rewards points and gain access to exclusive perks when they record their bookings throughout the year.
For more information on the Jamaica Travel Specialist program go to www. oneloverewards.com.
www.travelweeklearningcentre.com
Imagine Your Korea Specialist Program
Take the Imagine your Korea Specialist course today and learn about one of the world’ s most dynamic destinations – beautiful, high-tech, friendly and cultured.
Japan Travel e-Learning Program
Available in English and French
Become a Japan Travel Specialist and deepen your knowledge of Japan, one of Asia’s most exciting destinations.
Chance to win a $100 gift card.
Aussie Specialist Program
Over the past 18 months we have busy gathering insights from travel sellers just like you. Thanks to your feedback, we’re pleased to announce that Tourism Australia has relaunched the award-winning Aussie Specialist Program! We have made it easier for travel sellers to gain the skills needed to better promote and sell Australian vacations.
Celebrity Cruises New Luxury: Meet Our New Ships
January 25, 2022 @ 2PM EST
Join us for the New Year with Celebrity Cruises’ webinar. Celebrity Cruises provides a luxury experience with more dining, more inclusions, more exclusivity.
Happ y Hol iday s!
PUNTA CANA - DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
IT’S EVERYTHING YOU LOVE
Explore the Caribbean’s most diverse country rich in history and culture. Embrace the stunning coastline beaming with indiginous fl ora and fauna, white sandy beaches and turquoise blue waters surrounding Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts in the Dominican Republic. Exquisite oceanfront dining, comfort in stylish accommodations and excellent entertainment await. Enjoy your stay with Infi nite Indulgence®, It’s all included.
For more information, please contact your preferred travel partner, visit PALLADIUMHOTELGROUP.COM or call 1.866.685.8524 Travel agents earn cash rewards by joining our partnership program at PALLADIUMCONNECT.COM
Hol H ida A P P Y ys
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MAY YOUR HOLIDAY SPIRITS SOAR
Season’s greetings from all of us at Air Canada
With another year coming to a close, we wanted to send the warmest holiday wishes to you and yours. It’s because of dedicated partners like you that we’re able to continue connecting people in all corners of the globe.
From our family to yours, season’s greetings and happy new year.
Take time to ring in the New Year with new plans. To believe in the magic of the holiday season, of brighter tomorrows and plan for joyful journeys across the sea. It’s so close we can taste it—like hot chocolate with whipped cream and candy cane sprinkles.
We have made a donation to our partners at Trees4Travel on behalf of our advisor community in Canada. e Happy Holidays
from our family to yours!
Season’s Greetings
From Sunny Jamaica
From all your friends at the Jamaica Tourist Board, we wish you a joyful holiday season and a Happy New Year.
YOUR CLIENT’S LUXURY INCLUDED® VACATION IS FULLY PROTECTED* Should their trip be interrupted, we’ve got them covered with: • Replacement Vacation • Travel Protection Insurance Is On Us • On-Resort Quarantine • And Much More
Vacation with Heart
Love has always been at the heart of all we do at Sandals® Resorts. As we celebrate our 40-year anniversary, we send our love and gratitude to our travel advisors. You have been at the heart of everything the World’s Only 5-Star Luxury Included® Resorts stands for. You have been a part of turning guests’ moments into memories for 40 years. And that’s something truly worth celebrating. ESTABLISHED 1981
