Travelweek - February 4th, 2021

Canada’s Travel Trade News February 4, 2020 travelweek.ca

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Canada’s Travel Trade News February 4, 2021 travelweek.ca

The fallout Travel agents and industry experts react to sun cancellations that could lead to more commission recalls pg. 3

Sunwing extends validity of future travel credits

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TOP NEWS

“This is just another blow”: Agents react to sun flight cancellations and pending commission recalls

By Cindy Sosroutomo TORONTO — Nearly a year into a global pandemic that has seen planes grounded, cruises temporarily docked, borders closed, tours cancelled and travel agents struggling to make ends meet, Canada’s travel industry may only now be seeing its biggest challenges ahead.

The Jan. 29 announcement by Prime Minister Trudeau who stated that all four of Canada’s major airlines – Air Canada, WestJet, Sunwing and Transat – have agreed to cancel all Caribbean and Mexican flights through April 30, 2021 has left the entire industry reeling, from destinations that will be losing much-needed tourism revenue, to travel agents who are not only dealing with another round of rebookings and cancellations, but also more commission recalls.

Everyone in the travel chain will be impacted by the news, with little to no financial relief in sight, as of yet, from the federal government. And though the route cancellations, coupled with a new round of unprecedented travel rules that include mandatory PCR testing at Canada’s four largest airports (Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and Calgary) and costly hotel quarantining, are designed to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and all its new concerning variants, it’s of little comfort to hard-hit travel agencies and agents who have struggled to stay afloat since March.

Travelweek checked in with industry experts and agents to get their reaction to Trudeau’s bombshell announcement, here’s what they had to say: TL NETWORK Christine James, Vice President Canada, anticipates that over 200 clients could be impacted by the flight cancellations and new travel rules, adding that the company is communicating all updates from its suppliers to member agencies as soon as they come in.

On the short-term impact of these new measures, she says: “This will have an impact on both our member agencies and their advisors that were starting to see a modest recovery in bookings for this winter. Not only will advisors have to deal with their clients who were impacted but the hardest

blow they will have to face is that their commissions will be recalled for passengers who opt for a refund versus a future travel credit.”

James believes that since it was the federal government to have “triggered this decision,” the responsibility to compensate airlines – with the stipulation that agency commissions are not recalled – should fall on the government.

“If the government makes decisions that negatively impact one of the hardest hit industries, they need to offer the appropriate financial compensation to sustain the viability of our travel agency community and suppliers, both in the short and long term,” she says.

NEXION TRAVEL GROUP – CANADA Like TL Network, Nexion has over 200 clients affected by these new travel measures. Its advisors are doing client outreach to advise of cancellations and counsel on next steps, says Mike Foster, CTC, President of Nexion Travel Group-Canada, proving their value yet again.

“It’s not an easy or fun process but when this is over, no one will doubt the value of a travel advisor,” he says.

When asked who must step up to help travel agents, Foster says “every-

thing depends on the government.” He adds that without government assistance, he doesn’t believe that airlines – or any supplier-sector – will have the resources to assist agencies.

“The country needs a strong airline industry and the government must act in order to protect this vital segment.

But that aid must also come with the condition that agencies not be required to return the commission revenue they rightfully earned. By not doing so, travel agencies would, in effect, also be contributing to the bailout of airlines and I don’t believe that anyone could argue that is logical,” says Foster.

HEIDI HURST, HEIDIWAY TRAVEL Heidi Hurst, an independent contractor with TPI and founder of Calgary-based Heidiway Travel, lost approximately $700 in commission recalls in the two days following Trudeau’s announcement, an admittedly nominal amount in comparison to the thousands of dollars that other agents are at risk of losing.

“The federal government made this announcement without a backup plan for Canadian workers, and I know that has caused a lot of stress, tears and anxiety,” she says. “Unlike me, there February 4, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 3

TOP NEWS are a number of travel agents who are Independent Contractors and who are going to be out tens of thousands of dollars based on refunds and recalled wage commissions.”

It’s estimated that up to $200 million in commission recalls are at stake in the wake of mass refunds related to the COVID-19 pandemic. With this in mind, Hurst started a Commission Recall Petition last month to “bring to light the role travel agents play in this whole industry” and protect their hardearned commissions. With help from her MP, Jag Sahota of Calgary Skyview in Alberta, the petition, which garnered close to 5,000 signatures from across Canada, was certified and tabled in Parliament on Jan. 29, the same day Prime Minister Trudeau announced Sun cancellations. This gives the government 45 days thereafter to respond.

“MPs in Ottawa should have a hard time saying they didn’t know travel agents are scared and under the gun for $200 million of commission recalls because we’ve told them for months that this is how the industry works,” adds Hurst. “The government ultimately made this final decision so it’s up to them to find a way to put a safety net in place. Their policies don’t include gig workers, solopreneurs or independent contractors, who are most often female. They must come up with a way for us to either apply to reclaim the commissions that we have to pay back or pay out the commission amount to supplier partners so they don’t have to recall it.”

SCOTT PENNY, THE TRAVEL AGENT NEXT DOOR “This is just another blow to travel agents and agencies,” says the certified travel advisor from Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. “Once again we are caught in the middle of a bad situation and either way, there does not appear to be a favourable outcome for us.”

Penny, who currently has two clients Got a story idea? Questions or comments? Write to us at editorial@travelweek.ca

TRAVELWEEK

Tony Santelli and Heidi Hurst

in Panama whose flights have been cancelled, is calling on both sides – the government and airlines – to put aside their differences, make a compromise and start listening to travel agents.

“MPs should have a hard time saying they didn’t know agents are under the gun for commission recalls because we’ve told them for months that this is how the industry works.”

“While I feel the government has some grounds to require clients to be refunded before a bailout is given to the airlines, it’s also vital that the airlines step up and stop recalling our commissions and protect the ones that are outstanding. The cruise lines were very supportive of travel agents in protecting commissions – the airlines need to follow,” he says.

TONY SANTELLI, FUNTASTIQUE TRAVEL While the agency co-founder notes that some travel agents, particularly those who are home-based, are managing “quite well” thanks to CERB (Can-

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ada Emergency Response Benefit) and CRB (Canada Recovery Benefit) assistance, and that travel agencies can expect guaranteed loans that they won’t have to pay back in full, a good part of income will still be lost, which is why commissions should be protected and paid by tour operators and airlines.

“Airlines and tour operators should not recall commissions and the government should refund the airlines and tour operators,” says Santelli. “I recall after 9/11, we had no business for one month. We paid out more money in refunds than commissions earned and it took several years before we returned to pre-9/11 sales levels.”

Santelli, who himself has recovered from COVID-19 along with his wife, son, daughter and granddaughter, is discouraging clients to travel abroad at this time, instead reserving them on trips departing in August and September.

“When we got into this business, we all realized that tourism is a very fragile industry; we learned to adapt to every unfortunate and unexpected event,” he adds. “If there’s a bombing in Bali, we stop selling Bali. If there’s a tsunami or war in an area, we stop selling those destinations. And yes, it means more work with no pay to cancel and refund trips, repatriate our clients abroad and send them to other safer areas. But we do this because it’s in our DNA.” CONTENTS COPYRIGHTED We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada.

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TOP NEWS

Refunds are being offered by all major airlines following Sun cancellations TORONTO — After being requested by the federal government to halt all flights to Mexico and the Caribbean through April 30 as part of ongoing efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19, all four impacted airlines have complied and responded in full, stating refunds are on the way for customers.

The flight cancellations, which apply to Air Canada, WestJet, Transat and Sunwing, went into effect on Jan. 31 and are meant to complement new travel rules that include the funnelling of all international flights through Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and Calgary, mandatory PCR testing at these four airports, and costly hotel quarantines for all incoming passengers while they await their test results.

In the immediate aftermath of the Jan. 29 announcement of these new measures by the federal government, all four airlines issued official statements to outline their plans moving forward: AIR CANADA Air Canada is suspending operations to 15 destinations in total. To help ensure Canadians are not stranded abroad, Air Canada plans to operate a number of one-way commercial flights from affected destinations after January 31 in order to return passengers at the suspended destinations to Canada.

“Affected customers will be offered full refunds given the services are being suspended with no alternative available,” says Air Canada. Since the start of 2020, in the wake of the pandemic, Air Canada has refunded more than $1 billion in refundable tickets.

Suspended destinations include: Cayo Coco; Cancun; Liberia; Montego Bay; Punta Cana; Varadero; Puerto Vallarta; Antigua; Aruba; Barbados; Kingston; Mexico City; Nassau; Providenciales; and San Jose.

WESTJET The WestJet Group is temporarily ceasing international flights to 14 sun destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean. Over the subsequent two weeks, WestJet will work to bring guests already in destination back to Canada.

Guests booked to travel during the impacted period will be notified.

In October 2020 WestJet announced 6 | TRAVELWEEK | February 4, 2021

it would offer refunds in the wake of the pandemic. In its most recent notice, the airline said that for passengers with travel booked during the impacted period, WestJet will be proactively notifying them of their options.

“The government asked and we agreed,” said Ed Sims, WestJet President and CEO. “While we know that air travel is responsible for less than two

“While we know that air travel is responsible for less than 2% of cases since the start of the crisis, we recognize the government's ask is a precautionary measure.” per cent of cases since the start of the crisis, and even less today, we recognize the Government of Canada’s ask is a precautionary measure. We also note that the overwhelming majority of quarantine exemptions, well over 90% in fact, are connected to land borders and not air travel. We have responded

to their request and will suspend service to destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean.”

The following southbound operations are suspended: Vancouver – Puerto Vallarta; Vancouver – Cancun; Vancouver – Cabo San Lucas; Calgary – Cabo San Lucas; Calgary – Puerto Vallarta; Calgary – Cancun; Calgary – Liberia; Edmonton – Cancun; Edmonton – Puerto Vallarta; Toronto – Cancun; Toronto – Puerto Plata; Toronto – Punta Cana; Toronto – Kingston; Toronto – Montego Bay; Toronto – Liberia; Toronto – Varadero; Toronto – Saint Lucia; Toronto – Saint Marten; Toronto – Nassau; Toronto –Bermuda; Edmonton – Mazatlan (Swoop); Edmonton – Puerto Vallarta (Swoop); Toronto – Montego Bay (Swoop); and Toronto – Cancun (Swoop).

SUNWING Sunwing is working to notify customers currently in destination about any changes to their existing flights and those with upcoming vacation bookings on the cancelled flight schedule. In addition, any customers with cancelled bookings will be provided a full refund to the original form of payment.

“Further to the Government of Canada’s announcement, Sunwing, along

TOP NEWS with all other major Canadian airlines and tour operators, has made the decision to suspend flights to all sun destinations until April 30, 2021,” reads the statement. “This decision was not made lightly but something we deemed necessary as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and is based on ongoing collaboration with the government and the Canadian aviation industry.”

TRANSAT Air Transat will be operating several dozen flights over the next two weeks to return its customers to Canada.

Customers scheduled to return to the country between now and Feb. 13 will keep their original flight, while those whose flights are cancelled will automatically be redirected to another Air Transat flight.

Until April 30, customers who are unable to travel due to the cancellation of their flight will be refunded in the same method of payment they used for their booking.

Transat is reiterating the importance for the federal government to implement the previously announced sector-specific financial assistance to support the industry and the investments it has made in recent years, not to mention the tens of thousands of workers in the sector who have lost their jobs. Transat notes that the airline industry is “highly competitive” and that international carriers from other countries have already benefitted from significant support measures from their governments since the beginning of the pandemic.

“This is creating a considerable imbalance that has hurt the competitiveness of Canada’s airlines for months and threatens their survival,” reads Transat’s statement. “Moreover, the entire Canadian economy will be deprived of the vital and strategic contribution of the airline and aeronautics industry when the recovery comes.”

Since the outset of the pandemic, Transat has implemented measures to safeguard its cash flow, including temporary layoffs affecting 75% of its staff.

But according to the airline, the temporary shutdown of operations has resulted in further layoffs of flight crews and support staff.

It wasn’t much, but it was something: Minister Alghabra has travel agents on his radar

by Kathryn Folliott TORONTO — Travel agents are weary of looking for silver linings. But amid the onslaught of ramped up travel restrictions and flight suspensions announced by the federal government last Friday, all extremely damaging for the industry, there was one tiny shred of good news: Transport Minister Omar Alghabra has travel agents on his radar.

It wasn’t much, but it was something, and it’s potentially a hopeful sign.

After Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s COVID-19 briefing on Jan. 29, ministers including Alghabra and Bill Blair, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, alongside Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Theresa Tam, followed up with another briefing where most of the Q&A focused on the new travel restrictions.

Asked about the government’s proposed financial assistance package for Canada’s airlines, Alghabra listed off the many factors under consideration when it comes to any bailout package. One was assistance for airlines. Another factor was “travel agents’ compensation.”

That was it, and Alghabra didn’t elaborate. But just hearing that travel agents and commission recalls are on the radar - recalls which could take up to $200 million away from devastated travel agencies in the wake of potential mass refunds - could be reason for optimism.

Back in November 2020, when then-Transport Minister Marc Garneau first announced the potential bailout, he said any financial assistance would be contingent on Canada’s airlines offering refunds for all travellers impacted by COVID-19 cancellations.

INCREASED SURVEILLANCE Asked about assistance for the airlines, Trudeau said last Friday: “We are engaged in ongoing talks with the airlines, we are having very good discussions. We are here to support the airline companies and we thank them for making this decision.”

The new travel restrictions an-

nounced on Jan. 29, far wider in scope than the travel industry had expected, include the suspension of all winter sun flights to Mexico and the Caribbean by all four of Canada’s major airlines (Air Canada, WestJet, Sunwing and Transat). The airlines are now operating repatriation flights to bring travellers home. The suspension will stay in place until at least April 30.

Travellers heading back to Canada also face mandatory PCR testing upon arrival (now in place in Ontario, as announced by Ontario Premier Doug Ford last Friday), as well as mandatory hotel quarantine while waiting for the results of that test, at a cost pegged at $2,000. If the test is positive, travellers will then wait out their quarantine at a government facility in an effort to control transmission of COVID-19 and especially the new variants. The pre-boarding PCR test requirement in place since Jan. 7 is also in effect.

Trudeau also spoke on Jan. 29 about “increased surveillance” for home quarantines.

Dr. Tam later said the federal government has increased its numbers of security contractors “who will do more ‘door knocking’ to check on quarantines”, in some 35 cities across the country. There will also be more phone calls.

Minister Blair reiterated Trudeau’s “now is not the time to travel” messaging, adding that jail time and fines are among the potential consequences for anyone not complying with the mandatory quarantine order.

“We’re trying to eliminate all discretionary non-essential travel,” said Blair.

Asked about the high cost of the hotel quarantines for returning travellers, at the traveller’s expense, Blair said: “If Canadians make that choice, they should bear that cost and responsibility.”

February 4, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 7

WORLD NEWS

DESTINATIONS

The Pacific Princess, which sailed more than 1.6 million nautical miles and 11 World Cruises for Princess Cruises, has been sold. According to the cruise line, the sale of the ship to an undisclosed buyer is in line with parent company Carnival Corporation’s plan to accelerate the removal of less efficient ships from its fleet. Pacific Princess first joined the cruise line’s fleet in 2002 but originally entered service in 1999 as R3 for Renaissance Cruises. The boutique-style ship, which carried just 670 passengers, enjoyed many historic moments, including a throwback cruise during which it recreated Princess Cruises’ very first itinerary to the Mexican Riviera in celebration of the line’s 50th anniversary on Dec. 3, 2015. Guests with bookings will be notified and receive information on how to book another Princess Cruise when operations resume. Guests who prefer a refund will be accommodated.

This Is Athens, the Official Visitors’ Guide to the City of Athens, has appointed Toronto-based Reach Global Marketing as its new agency of record. Reach has been tasked with elevating the destination’s presence in Canada through public relations and media and consumer channels, as well as drive economic results through sales & marketing.

Strategic direction will include customized three- to five-day itineraries, a focus on off-the-beaten-path activities, and strong storytelling to encourage Canadians visiting Greece to extend their stay within the city. Said Charmaine Singh, President & CEO of Reach Global: “Aligning our business with innovative brands and industry trendsetters has always been our priority. I’m pleased to see a destination like Athens remain committed to Canada.”

Credit: WestJet

CRUISE LINES

WestJetters onboard the Boeing 737 MAX-Credit WestJet

AIRLINES WestJet President and CEO Ed Sims said WestJet’s 737 MAX aircraft’s return to the skies on Jan. 21, which marked the first time the aircraft has taken flight in Canada in almost two years, was “an auspicious day after a vast amount of work.”

He said the Calgary to Vancouver flight was “right on time” and carried 71 WestJet guests along with a large contingent of WestJet’s executive team, including Sims himself. Going forward, the 737 MAX on the Jan. 21 flight, one of many 737 MAX aircraft in WestJet’s fleet, will operate the CalgaryToronto route three times a week. In a Q&A session, Captain David Colquhoun, who piloted the first flight, says that after almost two years of reviews and operational changes, he has complete confidence in the aircraft. “Boeing has redesigned the system that failed,” said Colquhoun. “We are confident it is a safe aircraft to fly on.”

Flair Airlines is ramping up its fleet with the addition of 13 new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. On Jan. 20, Transport Canada lifted the ban on the MAX series, giving airlines the green light to deploy the aircraft in Canadian airspace following nearly two years of intense review. According to Flair, the new aircraft, which are being leased from 777 Partners, will allow the airline to grow its network across Canada with increased options for low-fare service to a greater number of destinations. Flair’s new management team led by President & CEO Stephen Jones and new Chief Commercial Officer Garth Lund, both formerly with Wizz Air, will begin accepting delivery of the new aircraft in early 2021. With this order, Flair is on track to achieve its ‘F50’ goal of growing to 50 planes within five years.

8 | TRAVELWEEK | February 4, 2021

Italy’s tourism board says the country has achieved 1 million vaccinations in just 19 days, making it the first country in the EU to have surpassed the milestone. A total of nearly 2% of its population have now received the vaccine. The destination currently ranks sixth in the world for the number of vaccinations, and second in Europe. After vaccinating all residents 80+ years of age and care home residents during phase one of its vaccination program, Italy is now aiming to vaccinate a further 21 million from February to June during phase two. These include residents with underlying health conditions, teachers and over-60s. Phase three will offer vaccinations to all essential service workers, and phase four will see the rest of the population hopefully vaccinated by the end of December 2021.

TOURISM The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has officially declared 2020 as the worst year on record for global tourism, with destinations worldwide welcoming one billion fewer international arrivals than in the previous year.

According to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, this collapse in international travel represents an estimated loss of US$1.3 trillion in export revenues, more than 11 times the loss recorded during the 2009 global economic crisis. The 2020 global health crisis has put between 100 and 120 million direct tourism jobs at risk, many of them in small- and medium-sized enterprises. A UNWTO Panel of Experts survey shows that most experts do not anticipate a return to pre-pandemic levels before 2023. In fact, 43% of respondents point to 2023, while 41% expect a return to 2019 levels in 2024 or later.

NEWS

“You can’t have one without the other”: Financial support needed now, says Unifor TORONTO — “Further travel restrictions without providing financial support for airline workers is a risk to the very future of Canada’s airline industry,” says Jerry Dias, National President of Unifor.

As Canada’s largest union in the private sector, Unifor is calling on the federal government to provide immediate financial support to the industry to prevent its total collapse. News broke on Jan. 29 that the government will be implementing a new wave of travel restrictions and measures to stop the spread of COVID-19. These include new mandatory PCR testing at Canada’s four largest airports as well as mandatory hotel quarantines that come at an expense exceeding $2,000 per person.

“Though these measures are necessary to help flatten the curve, they also highlight the continued withering away of airline jobs,” said Dias. “More than 300,000 workers are frustrated, wondering why their federal government refuses to present a plan to help them weather this pandemic. Unlike other countries, Canada’s continued refusal to help this industry is making a bad situation worse.”

Last week, Dias presented Unifor’s national aviation plan to the federal Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. He stressed the urgent need to develop a national recovery plan for the aviation industry that includes financial support for workers and addresses the growing issue of precarious work in the aviation industry.

Sunwing extends validity of future travel credits to Sept. 30, 2026 TORONTO — Sunwing is extending the validity of its future travel credits (FTCs) to Sept. 30, 2026.

The move comes days after Sunwing, along with Canada’s other major carriers, announced the cancellation of its winter sun flights.

“There is no denying that the COVID-19 pandemic has taken an unprecedented toll on Canadians from coast to coast, and the entire world, and its timeline continues to remain uncertain,” says Sunwing in an official statement.

“As a result, Sunwing is pleased to announce it is extending the validity of future travel credits until September 30, 2026.”

“It will ensure Canadians can fully enjoy their future getaway at a time that is convenient for them.”

All Sunwing customers who were impacted by cancelled travel due to the pandemic and who made non-refundable bookings will now be able to use their credits for travel up to September 30, 2026.

The company says the extension is intended to provide Sunwing customers with greater flexibility so they can plan their future vacation to the tropics with peace of mind.

The vast majority of Sunwing’s future travel credits were set to expire by June

20, 2022, however “travel restrictions and the global pandemic have gone on far longer than anyone could have ever expected,” says the company.

Sunwing says the voucher extension accounts for the uncertain timeline and travel restrictions currently in place. “Moreover, it will ensure Canadians, including those in smaller regional markets, can fully enjoy their future getaway at a time that is convenient for them.”

The travel credit extension is specific to those customers who made non-refundable bookings. Any Sunwing customers with cancelled travel as a result of the pandemic, and who made bookings that were refundable or partially refundable, have received refunds in the form of original payment.

The expiration date on customers’ existing future travel credits will automatically be updated, so there is no action required on the part of travel agents or customers. Travel credits can be redeemed when booking an upcoming flight or vacation package.

Speaking with Travelweek, Melanie Filipp, Sunwing’s Director of Corporate Communications and Media Relations, said that the airline is standing by agents and values their business.

“We know this is a challenging time and we empathize with our travel agent partners who are juggling financial strain, all while working tirelessly to guide customers through the ongoing travel restrictions and help them manage their upcoming or cancelled vacation bookings,” she says. “We are confident that, by working together, we will come out even stronger on the other side of this. In the meantime, we’re always here to lend a helping hand to our travel agents and address questions or concerns they may have.”

Announced on Jan. 29, in a move that took effect Jan. 31, Sunwing, along with Air Canada, WestJet and Transat, cancelled all flights to the Caribbean and Mexico through April 30 at the request of the federal government as part of ongoing efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and all its new variants.

All four airlines are offering the option of refunds to passengers impacted by the cancellations.

Sunwing has secured access to $375 million of liquidity with a new loan announced by the Canada Enterprise Emergency Funding Corp. (CEEFC) and made under the Large Employer Emergency Financing Facility (LEEFF).

February 4, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 9

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NEWS

Without aid, there will be imminent closures and bankruptcies: ACTA

Independent advisors left “scrambling” in wake of new travel rules, says ACITA TORONTO — The Association of Canadian Independent Travel Advisors (ACITA) is “disappointed” with the lack of information provided by the federal government regarding its newly introduced travel rules.

Announced by Prime Minister Trudeau on Jan. 29, the new travel rules were far more extensive than initially anticipated by the travel industry.

“While we welcome a decision and were hoping for a detailed plan, we again find ourselves disappointed with the lack of information, as well as the thought processes that went into this decision making,” said Nancy Wilson, ACITA co-founder.

Wilson added: “He opened his statement recognizing that only 2% of cases has been brought about by travel yet has again directed all his measures to protect Canadians from this virus by restricting travel. With only a cancellation of flights to Caribbean destinations, we feel this has not addressed the seriousness of the issues with community spread, or provided additional support to the provinces to get this spread under control, where the majority of the issues are, not to mention that the majority of critical issues with this virus are not originating in Caribbean destinations.”

Despite the lack of detailed information, said Wilson, the seriousness of the new measures will hopefully bring 12 | TRAVELWEEK | February 4, 2021

a newfound sense of urgency for sector aid, specifically for travel advisors.

“Airline staff and all related sectors are now in critical need for support to survive,” she said. “While they recognized airlines will need aid, no announcements on that leaves us again scrambling and concerned for the future of businesses.

“We feel this has not addressed the seriousness of the issues with community spread, or provided additional support to the provinces to get this spread under control.”

“Independent advisors as well as travel advisors in storefront agencies and travel agency owners are at a greater risk today of shutting their doors for good, and the work we have ahead of us is paramount to ensure we can limit those closures as much as possible.”

Wilson did note one encouraging development: for the first time, Transport Minister Omar Alghabra made mention of travel agents in relation to sector aid during a press briefing on Jan. 29.

“We will look at this as a positive step forward and as an opportunity to further dialogue on the urgent need for commission protection with any bailout packages,” added Wilson.

TORONTO — ACTA issued a statement on Jan. 29 in the wake of the new travel restrictions announced by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

“The news of earlier today with respect to the suspension of flying to the Caribbean and Mexico as well as significant related restrictions is absolutely devastating for all sectors within the travel industry – from airlines to hotels, tour operators, travel agencies, travel agents, independent contractors and all other businesses that rely on tourism,” said Wendy Paradis, President, ACTA. Paradis said ACTA is sounding the alarm for travel agents and travel agencies following the federal government’s announcement that Canada’s major airlines have agreed to suspend all flights to the Caribbean and Mexico until April 30.

“Without enhanced and urgent aid, and protection against commission recall there will be imminent business closures and bankruptcies among travel agencies and independent contractors – as we have been warning the federal government,” said Paradis.

“However, as we have been stating for months to the federal government, travel agencies and travel agents cannot survive the brunt of about $200 million in recall commission on cancelled and refunded bookings related to the COVID-19 crisis,” she added.

Paradis said: “ACTA reinforced the impact of these latest travel restrictions to the federal government again today and reinforced our message that any aid given to an airline or tour operator MUST include funding to cover travel agent recall commissions, and for a FUND to cover past bookings already recalled.”

Paradis said that while, of course, ACTA understands the importance of protecting the health of Canadians, the impact of the new measures of suspended flights, new testing on arrival on top of the pre-boarding testing, mandatory hotel quarantines and other initiatives will further delay any meaningful recovery for the entire industry.

“We require immediate and focused discussions with the government to ensure not only the safety of Canadi-

NEWS ans and travellers --but of our travel businesses,” she said. “Travel agencies and travel agents need aid now. Our industry has been effectively shut down.”

Jamaica ramps up COVID-19 testing at resorts, airports and labs KINGSTON — Jamaica’s approach to on-island COVID-19 testing capacity can be described as “aggressive,” which is good news for travellers returning home to both Canada and the United States.

Following pre-arrival testing requirements from the Canadian and American governments, Jamaica has announced an increase in destination-wide COVID-19 testing capacity, including at several hotels and resorts.

For travellers staying at other locations, the Ministry of Health and Wellness and the Ministry of Tourism are working together to establish mobile testing facilities within Jamaica’s designated ‘Resilient Corridors.’ These Corridors, created to encourage safe tourism practices within popular tourist areas, comprise two parts: a north-

ern segment stretching from Negril in Westmoreland to Port Antonio in Portland, and a South Coast segment running from Milk River in Clarendon to Negril in Westmoreland.

Testing resources will also be added at Sangster International Airport and Norman Manley International Airport.

Plus, PCR and antigen tests will be conducted at 10 private laboratories approved by the Ministry of Health and Wellness.

For a full list of approved laboratories go to www.visitjamaica.com/travel authorization/testing-labs.

Last month, Jamaica announced the creation of a special task force that will oversee the island’s testing capacity.

Led by Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett, the task force includes various travel and tourism experts and professionals who will collaborate efforts to facilitate wide-scale COVID-19 testing for visitors.

“There is a great deal at stake”: NACC calls for financial support OTTAWA — The National Airlines Council of Canada (NACC) is calling on the federal government to take “im-

PEOPLE Orlando Ashford joins Azamara as Executive Chairman Azamara has appointed Orlando Ashford as its incoming Executive Chairman. Ashford, who previously served as president of Holland America Line from 2014 to May 2020, said he has “long admired” Azamara’s business and brand and believes that the boutique cruise line is “uniquely positioned in the industry.”

Last month, Azamara’s parent company, Royal Caribbean Group, entered into a definitive agreement with Sycamore Partners, a private equity firm, to sell the luxury line. The deal is expected to close in Q1 of this year.

“We are pleased for Orlando to take on this role as Azamara embarks on its next chapter supported by Sycamore Partners,” said Stefan Kaluzny, Managing Director of Sycamore Partners. “Orlando brings significant leadership experience as well as specific expertise in the cruise and travel industry, making him well-suited to serve as Azamara’s Executive Chairman.”

mediate action” and provide financial support to airlines following the cancellation of all sun destination flights through April 30, 2021.

The cancellations, made at the request of the federal government, went into effect on Jan. 31 in an effort to secure Canada’s borders against COVID-19 and its new variants. All flights to and from Mexico and the Caribbean with Air Canada, WestJet, Sunwing and Transat have been impacted.

In addition to financial aid, NACC, which represents Canada’s largest air carriers including Air Canada, Air Transat, Jazz Aviation and WestJet, is also calling on the government to develop an aviation recovery strategy that will help restart the economy.

“Countries that have a true recovery strategy in place for their aviation sectors will be the best positioned to ensure the safe restart of their economy. There is a great deal at stake in the coming months.”

“We recognize the statements made by the government that a healthy aviation sector is critical to Canada and our economy, and that the government is committed to working with the sector on a true recovery strategy that incorporates a science-based approach to testing and quarantine measures, and that the government is also committed to providing sectoral support for the industry overall,” said Mike McNaney, President and CEO of NACC. “We need to ensure we take substantive action soon,” he added. “Countries that have a true recovery strategy in place for their aviation sectors will be the best positioned to ensure the safe restart of their economy, to bring back jobs and investment and to successfully compete and take market share from countries that are not well prepared.

“There is a great deal at stake in the coming months and we look forward to engagement with the government on a clear and substantive sectoral recovery strategy.”

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These Riviera Nayarit hotels are helping guests with COVID-19 testing RIVIERA NAYARIT — A total of 36 hotels and resorts in the Riviera Nayarit are accommodating guests in need of either a PCR or antigen test prior to their departure home.

Canadians who require a PCR test, as mandated by the federal government in order to return home, and Americans who must take a viral test (either a PCR or antigen test) as part of the U.S. government’s new pre-arrival testing rule, can now take a test while in Riviera Nayarit either on site at their hotel or at hospitals, clinics and laboratories in the region.

“Riviera Nayarit is a destination recognized for its hospitality and this situation allows the hotel industry to reinforce its support to travellers and for us to continue promoting economic reactivation,” said Marc Murphy, managing director of the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau.

In addition to providing testing at hotels, Riviera Nayarit has implemented sanitary protocols as per the Ministry of Health of the Mexican Federal Government at hotels and restaurants, which are operating at their permitted capacity. Additionally, access to beaches has been limited.

The following hotels are accommodating guests in need of either a PCR or antigen test, or both: Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta; Paradise Village; Occidental Nuevo Vallarta; Hard Rock Vallarta; Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit; Marival Group; Dreams Villamagna; Hoteles Riu; Samba Vallarta; Krystal Grand; Hoteles Villagroup; Las Palomas; Royal Decameron Complex; Cactuc Inn; Refugio del Mar; Vista Vallarta; Grand Matlali Hills; B Nayar; Vallarta Gardens; Villa Bella; Grand Palladium Vallarta; W Punta de Mita; Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita; The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort; Palmasola; Mesón de Mita; Iberostar Playa Mita; Conrad Punta de Mita; Imanta Resorts Punta de Mita; Xiobella; Haramara Retreat; Playa Escondida; El Pueblito Sayulita; Hotelito Los Sueños; Hotel Cielo Rojo San Pancho; Maraica San Pancho; El Coral; Mar al Cielo.

Guests are encouraged to contact hotels directly for more details.

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Book now, travel later: Malaysia awaits you TORONTO — To celebrate a brand new year, Tourism Malaysia, in partnership with Canada One Travel, Goway Travel, Royal Scenic Holidays and SITA World Tours, has launched the ‘Book Now Travel Later, Malaysia Awaits You’ initiative. It includes a fun contest and new travel deals that extend through 2021 and beyond, all aimed at inspiring clients to travel again.

Situated in the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia has emerged as a cultural and eco-adventure hub in the region, offering both cultural and bio-diversity on land and in the water.

The World Conservation Monitoring Centre (WCMC) of the United Nations Environment Program identified Malaysia as one of only 12 mega-bio-diverse countries in the world.

This is because Malaysia’s rainforest, which is 130 million years old and covers 60% of the country’s landmass, is the oldest rainforest in the world and considered one of the most bio-diverse on the planet. It’s home to over 15,000 species of flowering plants, 286 species of mammals and 150,000 species of invertebrates – and yet scientists believe that a huge array of Malaysia’s wildlife, flora and fauna has yet to be discovered.

Outdoor enthusiasts can’t get enough of Malaysia’s natural land-

scapes, which offer a plethora of activities ranging from jungle trekking, caving and mountain climbing, to white water rafting, bird watching and wildlife spotting, just to name a few.

Malaysia’s bio-diversity also encompasses the bodies of water that surround it. Earth.org, a global environmental non-profit and non-partisan Think Tank, considers the coral triangle the world’s epicentre of marine biodiversity, home to some 4,000 species of fish. Malaysia is lucky enough to be located within the prestigious coral triangle, which attracts not just avid diving enthusiasts but also marine biologists and scientists from around the world.

Besides bio-diversity, Malaysia is home to Asia’s three main ethnic groups – Malays, Chinese and Indians – not to mention over 20 indigenous groups. Malaysia also boasts cultural influences from the Portuguese, Dutch and British occupations, which are evident in its many varied architectural wonders. Its strategic location in the heart of Southeast Asia makes Malaysia a cultural melting pot, which is why it’s often said that ‘Malaysia is Truly Asia.’

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Turks and Caicos adds additional COVID-19 testing sites PROVIDENCIALES — Turks and Caicos has “exponentially” increased its COVID-19 testing facilities in response to the CDC’s new pre-arrival requirements, says the Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board.

All travellers now have the option of getting tested at any of 12 different locations across three islands, many of which are located on-site at resorts.

Additional testing sites are expected to be added throughout the sister islands.

The following centers are open and approved to provide travel-related testing and are now accepting appointments: • Amanyara (Providenciales), 1-649-941-8133 • Associated Medical Practices (Providenciales), 1-649-946-4242 • Beaches Resort (Providenciales), 1-888-BEACHES • Carolina Medical Clinic (Providenciales), 1-649-946-4367 • COMO Parrot Cay (Parrot Cay), 1-649-339-7788 • FamilyCare Medical Services Ltd (Providenciales), 1-649-431-3262 • Flamingo Pharmacy (Providenciales), 1-649-941-4527; Offering Services Starting Feb. 1 • Grace Bay Club (Providenciales),

1-649-946-5050 • Grace Bay Medical Centre (Providenciales), 1-649-941-5252 • OMNICARE (Providenciales), 1-649-941-5050 • Sail Rock Resort (South Caicos), 1-649-946-3777 • Seven Stars Resort (Providenciales), 1-649-333-7714 The Turks and Caicos Islands still requires negative COVID-19 PCR test results within five days prior to arrival to the destination as part of TCI Assured, a quality assurance pre-travel program and portal. TCI Assured can be found on the Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board website and has been in effect since the reopening of borders on July 22, 2020. A travel authorization is provided only after visitors have provided proof of negative COVID-19 PCR test results from an accredited healthcare facility within five days prior to their arrival to the destination, proof of medical insurance, as well as a completed health screening questionnaire. A 14-day quarantine period is not required for visitors once they have tested negative for the virus.

Upon arrival to the airport, visitors must present their TCI Assured certifications to local authorities, all of whom wear PPE, before proceeding through immigration where temperature checks for each travellers will occur.

PEOPLE Holland America announces new director appointments Holland America Line has promoted Margo Beam to Director, Strategic Accounts, and Tara Schreiner to Director, National Accounts. Both will report to Michelle Sutter, vice president of North America sales.

In her new role, Beam, who most recently served as Deputy Director of National Accounts, will lead the team that oversees key online travel partnerships. She first joined Holland America in 2015 as part of the corporate charter and incentives team. Schreiner, who previously served as Senior Manager, National Accounts, will now lead the team that oversees the national account consortia and host account partnerships. She started her time at Holland America in 2017 as the first Strategic Accounts Manager and has since managed a varied portfolio of online, host account and national account partners.

Travel advisors can connect with their BDM manager and sales team through GoHAL.com or by emailing sales@hollandamerica.com.

Carnival, Holland America & Cunard to protect commissions for another year MIAMI — Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line and Cunard are all standing by travel advisors by extending commission protections by an additional year.

In doing so, the cruise lines are honouring the commission tier each account earned in 2019 through 2022, allowing travel advisors to earn commission at their current rates for the next two years without commission percentage changing.

All three lines had previously announced commission tiers would be maintained through 2021. Commissions are typically commensurate with sailed booking volumes.

“We truly appreciate the continued loyalty of our valued travel partners.”

“We truly appreciate the continued partnership and loyalty of our valued travel partners,” said Adolfo Perez, Carnival’s senior vice president of global trade sales and marketing. “By maintaining our current commission tiers, we’re recognizing the important role that travel advisors play in the vacation-selling process while providing peace of mind, knowing their efforts through 2022 will be compensated at the rate they have worked so hard to earn.”

Michelle Sutter, vice president, North America Sales at Holland America Line, added: “Holland America Line appreciates the support and business efforts of travel advisors during these challenging times. Our focus is to do everything we can to support the pursuit of cruise sales and reassure travel advisors that, once we are back in full swing, they will be in a strong position for success.”

And Cunard’s Jamie Paiko, vice president of Sales, North America, said: “Our travel partners are passionately committed to Cunard and are critically key to our business. We are especially grateful for their steadfast dedication to Cunard in 2020 and will protect their commission levels through 2022.”

February 4, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 15

Ride the Rhythm Do you feel it?

Let’s go!

visitjamaica.com

NEWS

WILTON, CT — It’s a sign of good things to come for Tauck, which recently completed its first tour departures since the outbreak of COVID-19 last spring.

The company’s initial ‘Wonderland: Yellowstone in Winter’ itineraries, which are part of Tauck’s ‘Ken Burns American Journeys’ collection, operated in January with comprehensive health and safety protocols. Additional departures of the eight-day Montana and Wyoming national parks tour are scheduled for this month.

According to CEO Dan Mahar, the resumption of the Yellowstone tours follows considerable preparation.

“Tauck is a family-owned and operated company and for 96 years the safety and well-being of our guests have been our very highest priorities,” he said “We’re thrilled to once again be welcoming guests to Yellowstone and we’re confident in doing so thanks to the care, thought and planning that we’ve invested in our return to travel.”

While Mahar declined to speculate on when Tauck would fully resume operations, he was decidedly upbeat about the future.

“Well over 60% of our 2021 capacity is already reserved. We’re poised and ready for the upcoming year and we continue to look ahead with great optimism as reservations are coming in for 2022 and even 2023,” he said. “As a 96-year-old company, we’ve endured many, many challenges before and without exception, every downturn or disruption has fuelled huge pent-up de-

CONTEST

Credit: TAUCK.com

Tauck successfully operates first tour departures since March

Tauck group on 'Wonderland: Yellowstone in Winter' itinerary

mand. We know that our guests can’t wait to travel with us and we’ll be ready to host them when the time is right.”

Safety protocols have been implemented across all of Tauck’s 2021 tours and cruises including mandatory use of masks, social distancing wherever possible, and enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures developed in close cooperation with its hoteliers, restaurateurs, transportation companies and other partners. In addition, Tauck is requiring each guest to complete the sign its ‘Travel Well Pledge,’ a health screening form that confirms guests have tested negative for COVID-19 within five days of departure, are free of virus-related symptoms and have not been in close contact with anyone diagnosed with COVID-19.

Feedback from Yellowstone travellers, which was collected post-trip, were overwhelmingly positive, says Jeremy Palmer, Senior Vice President for Tauck Land Journeys.

“Even with our robust COVID-19 pre-

Travel agents can win one of three Amazon e-gift cards with the ‘Book Now Travel Later, Malaysia Awaits You’ contest. Launching Feb. 4 and ending March 21, 2021, the contest includes weekly questions about Malaysia and its top selling points, including its biodiversity, natural wonders, and package specials by travel partners such as GOWAY Travel, Canada One Travel, SITA World Tours and Royal Scenic Holidays. At the end of the contest period, a draw will be made for all agents who successfully completed the contest.

First prize is a $1,000 Amazon e-gift card, second prize is a $500 Amazon e-gift card, and third prize is an Amazon e-gift card valued at $200.

Winners will be notified within two weeks of the contest closing date. Go to travelweek.ca/contests to enter.

cautions, our guest satisfaction scores for ‘Yellowstone in Winter’ have been consistent with our tour scores from prior years,” said Palmer. “It’s clear that we’re fully capable of delivering a Tauck-level experience while remaining diligent about our guests’ health and safety.

“While it’s impossible to totally remove all risk, our guests understand that we’re going to incredible lengths to keep everyone safe and healthy, and that knowledge is allowing everyone to relax, totally engage in the experience and enjoy these beautiful national parks at this magical time of year.”

Atlas Ocean Voyages joins Ensemble as preferred supplier FT. LAUDERDALE — Ensemble Travel Group has added Atlas Ocean Voyages as a preferred supplier, giving advisors greater access to bucket-list travel experiences.

“As the industry looks forward to the restart of travel and cruising in particular, we are truly thrilled to be working with such an innovative and fresh new brand,” said David Harris, CEO of Ensemble Travel Group.

“Our advisors are seeing a lot of pentup demand for this kind of luxury adventure travel and we anticipate there will be tremendous interest in the destinations and onboard experience that Atlas will offer,” he added.

Atlas will be launching service in July 2021 with the World Navigator, which February 4, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 17

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Bermuda

will offer inaugural-season itineraries to Israel, Egypt as well as the eastern Mediterranean and Black Sea. Additional destinations include the Caribbean, South America and Antarctica in winter 2021/22. World Navigator will also introduce the first-ever L’OCCITANE luxury spa at sea.

Guests may choose among 98 suites and staterooms, all with an ocean view and most with a private veranda. The line’s signature ‘All Inclusive All the Way’ program includes complimentary roundtrip air travel, shore excursion at every port, prepaid gratuities, polar parkas, emergency medical evacuation insurance, premium wine and spirits, international beers and coffees, Wi-Fi, L’OCCITANE bath amenities and regionally-inspired gourmet dining. Plus, in every stateroom, guests enjoy binoculars to use onboard, ensuite coffee, tea and personalized bar service, and butler service in suites.

To reassure guests at this time, Atlas’ ‘Plan With Confidence’ flexible travel policy provides travellers with a 100% refund of deposited funds up to 91 days prior to sailing. Plus, they can change their reservation as many times as they want, up to 15 days before their voyages’ sail date. They can even change their destination and sail with Atlas in another part of the world or choose to cancel at least 15 days or more prior to the departure date and be assured of a 100% future cruise credit.

For more information, agents can call 1-844-44-ATLAS (1-844-442-8527) and visit www.AtlasOceanvoyages.com where they can register to be an Atlas Ocean Voyages Advisor.

18 | TRAVELWEEK | February 4, 2021

Bermuda is ready to handle increased PCR testing for guests TORONTO — Bermuda is well equipped to accommodate visitors in need of COVID-19 testing, including those from Canada, the United States and the U.K. The island’s Ministry of Health confirmed that its testing system provides easy access to PCR COVID-19 tests, in-

cluding results within the 72-hour turnaround time required by Canadian and American officials.

Since Jan. 7, anyone five years and older arriving in Canada must have a negative PCR test within 72 hours of their scheduled departure and must show the results to their airline before boarding their flight. The U.S. implemented a similar rule that requires a negative a viral COVID-19 test, which includes an antigen or PCR test, from anyone arriving by air.

The Bermuda Government Molecular Diagnostic Lab (MDL), where test samples are processed, is expecting a 20%-25% increase in testing volume as a result of these new pre-arrival protocols. MDL technicians have confirmed that they can handle the additional demand with the required 72-hour turnaround time because their current performance standard is results in less than 24 hours. The lab operates seven days a week, which covers all traveller contingencies.

“This is excellent news for Bermuda tourism,” said Glenn Jones, Interim CEO at the Bermuda Tourism Authority. “The Government of Bermuda’s stellar pandemic management and rapid response to a constantly shifting landscape are putting Bermuda at the top of travellers’ consideration lists. And post-travel to Bermuda, visitors tell us

PEOPLE Karisa Lui is signing off from the HKTB after more than 26 years Karisa Lui, a driving force behind the Hong Kong Tourism Board’s (HKTB) efforts in promoting the destination to Canadian travellers, has retired after more than 26 years. Speaking with Travelweek, Lui shared some of her fondest memories from her time at the HKTB, including her first Chinese New Year Media Dinner held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in the mid-1990s. “It was the first time we had the exciting Hong Kong horse racing game. The annual celebration with media friends had become a signature event thereafter,” she recalled. That said, visiting Hong Kong with the media and trade are among Lui’s fondest activities. “There is always something new to experience and explore in Hong Kong. Patronizing my favourite local eats and local brand stores were on my must-do list.”

Lui joined the HKTA (now HKTB) Toronto Office responsible for PR & media matters in September 1994. Although she says farewell with reluctance, “it is time to start the next chapter of my life - to become a retiree.”

NEWS they felt safe from the pandemic while here.”

Bermuda reopened its tourism industry in July 2020 with all incoming travellers being tested upon arrival by air or sea. They are automatically booked to be tested again on days 4, 8 and 14; results are typically returned within 24 hours. Bermuda is in the top 10 globally for testing per capita.

Most Bermuda visitors returning to Canada, the U.S. and the U.K. will have their outbound testing requirements met within the existing testing regime.

Anyone in need of an outbound test not covered by this regime is automatically booked for a return home test.

Bermuda pivoted its existing automated system to consider the traveller’s departure date supplied on the way in, matched with the 72-hour requirement for test results on the way out.

Outbound test results contain the following information: name, birth date, gender, date of test, type of test and test credentials, lab name and address. This will satisfy the entry requirements in Canada, the U.S. and the U.K.

Guests and agents being notified of more Carnival cancellations MIAMI — Carnival Cruise Line is extending its pause in U.S. departures through April 30, 2021 and cancelling Australian operations through May 19, 2021.

In addition, European itineraries for Carnival Legend, which were to begin this May through Oct. 31, 2021, have been cancelled. The start date for Mardi Gras from Port Canaveral has also been moved, with the first cruise now set for May 29, 2021.

Carnival Cruise Line is notifying guests and travel agents directly of the cancellations and their options for a future cruise credit and onboard credit package, or a full refund.

“Our guests and travel agent partners continue to express their loyalty to Carnival and their desire to get back on our ships as soon as they can, and we are heartened by the booking demand and activity we continue to see,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “We are certainly committed to welcoming them back as quickly

as possible, but unfortunately we have determined it’s going to take a while longer, and the situation in Europe will also impact Mardi Gras’ departure to the U.S., and Carnival Legend’s itineraries in Europe.”

Anguilla targets extended-stay travellers with e-Visa portal TORONTO — Anguilla’s Department of Immigration has introduced a new online portal, e-Visa Anguilla, to facilitate the application process for visitors who need a visa to travel to Anguilla.

The portal offers visitors detailed information on the island’s visa requirements, and guides prospective applicants through an easy, three-step process.

Travellers who log on to e-Visa Anguilla can complete and submit the application form, check the status of the application, and receive the electronic visa authorization that must be presented on arrival.

Citizens of Canada, the U.S., the U.K. and many European and Caribbean countries can enter Anguilla and stay for up to three months without a visa.

Also, travellers who have a valid visa to enter the U.K., U.S. or Canada may use this visa to enter Anguilla. Travellers

can determine whether they require a visa by visiting the portal here.

“This is a significant and welcome development for our island, which will also have a positive impact on the growth strategy for our tourism industry," said the Hon. Parliamentary Secretary Tourism, Mrs. Quincia Gumbs Marie.

“As we expand beyond our traditional source markets of North America and Europe, and as we target extended-stay visitors, it is important to make it as easy and convenient as possible for our guests to come to our island.”

Visitors can apply for a single entry or multiple entry visa. A single entry visa, which costs US$140, is processed within 3-5 business days and allows the holder to stay for up to 90 consecutive days. It must be used within 30 days of the issue date. A multiple entry visa costs US$250, is valid for one year, and allows for multiple stays of up to 90 consecutive days. It is also processed within 3-5 business days and must be used within 30 days of the issue date.

Both single entry and multiple entry visas may be used for both business and leisure purposes.

To apply for a visa visitors must present a current passport, valid for at least 6 months, and a valid email address. For more information on Anguilla’s visa requirements and to make an application for a visa to travel to the island see e-Visa Anguilla at https://evisa.gov.ai.

Anguilla

February 4, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 19

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Gal Hana, Director for Canada, Israel Ministry of Tourism

Stepping into the future with ‘Israel | Tourism 3.0’ TORONTO — If there’s any sort of silver lining for Israel amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s that relatively low case numbers, at least compared to many parts of the world, should give travellers confidence in the destination.

That was the take from hotel and tour operator presenters during the ‘Israel | Tourism 3.0’ virtual conference on Jan. 20.

The event was produced by Travelweek and participation was strong, with viewership totalling 1,128 including Zoom participants and Facebook Live.

Hosted by Gal Hana, Director for Canada, Israel Ministry of Tourism with a helping hand from Shai DeLuca, well known to fans of CityTV’s Cityline, the online event featured panel discussions and more with top Israeli hoteliers, tour operators and tech companies, as well as keynote speeches from entrepreneur Yanki Margalit, and futurist Dr. Ian Yeoman.

“We’re starting the new year with optimistic news about the vaccines,” said Hana, who advocated an “agile, swift and quick approach” when it comes to post-pandemic travel industry strategies. “Although many prefer a comfortable life without surprises and crises or even unnecessary challenges, those are actually catalysts for improvement and innovation. The Chinese word for ‘crisis’ is combined from two elements: one represents risk and the other opportunity. Israel has had many challenges over the years that contributed to the innovation and creativity ecosystem.”

20 | TRAVELWEEK | February 4, 2021

“Q2 2021 WILL BE THE STARTING POINT” Of keen interest for the travel industry during the conference was input from travel companies dealing with COVID’s impact on tourism, especially the hotels and tour operators.

“If I had been part of the movie trilogy ‘Back to the Future’, I would have definitely said, ‘don’t ever go to 2020’,” joked Lior Mucznik, General Manager, Eilat Region, Dan Hotels.

He added: “But on a serious note, I would like to think that in three to six months COVID-19 will be history, making 2021 one of the best years in the past decade.”

Mucznik echoed the feelings of many of the presenters when he said that domestic travel has been a saving grace for Israel’s tourism industry amid the pandemic. “From the start we knew we should rely on our domestic market,” he said.

Uri Sharon, Commercial Director, Abraham Hostels & Tours, says Israel will win favour with inbound travellers for how it handled the COVID crisis. “I think there is a lot of trust for Israel with how the country dealt with the crisis,” he said.

And Haim Douk, Chief Marketing Officer, Prima Hotels, Israel, said he sees the vaccine as a game-changer.

“The second quarter of 2021 will be the starting point” to recovery, said Douk.

Since December 2020, about two million Israelis, or about 25% of the country’s population, have received the first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.

“THE MOTIVATION OF FAITH IS VERY STRONG” Top tour operators and MICE specialists took part in the event as well, including The Peerless Travel Group,

Eshet Incentives & Conferences, and Nazarene Tours.

Artzi Korostelev, Executive Vice President, The Peerless Travel Group, said the VFR market, already very strong for Israel, would be the first sector to rebound for Israel’s tourism industry.

Also a perennial performer, and one that will bounce back just as quickly as VFR, is the faith-based market, says Korostelev.

Amnon Ben-David, CEO, Eshet Incentives & Conferences, agrees. “I do believe the faith-based market will be the first to travel to the Holy Land,” he said.

“The motivation of faith is very strong.”

Meanwhile the MICE market has also been a strong performer for Israel, especially over the past few years, and Ben-David says he hopes to see this continue post-pandemic. “The last five years have been amazing for MICE to Israel, worldwide but especially from North America,” he says.

Peerless Travel’s Korostelev warns that while VFR and faith-based will be strong in the early months post-pandemic, “to bring back the average traveller will be much more challenging.”

The pandemic has put a dent in spending power for many travellers, who may have lost jobs during the pandemic and won’t be prioritizing travel any time soon. “Let’s face it, a visit to Israel has become a high-ticket item over the past decade,” said Korostelev.

He added: “Israel will have to remain competitive, not only around price points, but also on the marketing efforts and differentiation.”

Celestyal launches new reservation platform for agents ATHENS — Celestyal Cruises has teamed up with Versonix, a leading software company, to launch a new reservation platform that will be easier and more efficient for travel agents to use.

The Seaware Reservations Platform is designed to provide advanced revenue management performance, a powerful pricing and business policy engine and a robust Celestyal Cruises customer loyalty program. Most importantly, the platform will offer advanced CRM functionality for both consumers and travel agents along with increased capabilities for agents to offer their clients a greater

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variety of pre-/post-packages, shore excursions and onboard experiences.

“We’re extremely pleased to partner with Versonix,” said Leslie Peden, chief commercial officer, Celestyal Cruises.

“After carefully reviewing and testing all of the leading cruise reservation systems on the market, Versonix Seaware clearly became our top choice as it provides Celestyal with the greatest flexibility and enables us to enhance the support for travel agent partners in selling our cruises with an enhanced CRM capability and guest loyalty program.”

Mexican Caribbean up to the task with PCR testing, says tourism board CANCUN — The Quintana Roo Tourism Board wants travellers and the trade to know that the Mexican Caribbean has the capacity to perform the necessary COVID-19 tests for all North American visitors.

“We want you to enjoy your stay at the Mexican Caribbean, that is why we share some of the actions we are taking so that your only concern is to fully appreciate our wonderful attractions,” said the destination in a notice to the trade.

Canada’s PCR test requirement, in effect since Jan. 7, means that travellers must show proof of a negative PCR test before boarding their flight to Canada. Similar measures are now in

place for U.S. travellers too, who must show proof of a negative antigen test pre-boarding.

The Quintana Roo Tourism Board says the Mexican Caribbean has prevention, detection and care protocols for tourists, and has a vast network of hospitals and clinical analysis laboratories able to perform the COVID-19 diagnostic tests (with PCR and antigen techniques), and is working to facilitate access to these tests.

Many hotel chains have confirmed

that they will offer antigen testing at no cost to their guests. If PCR test is required, they will assist with the necessary arrangements, says the tourism board. Other hotels have made agreements with laboratories and pharmacies to offer the tests at preferential prices. Visitors are advised to check with their hotel to see what options are available.

Meanwhile the Guest Assist app provides assistance and guidance to tourists visiting the Mexican Caribbean and is available for free download on Google Play and the App Store. The app contains a special section to answer questions and provide information about the laboratories authorized to carry out the tests, as well as a Call Center (Spanish and English) available 24/7.

If the event of a positive test result, travellers are advised to stay in the Mexican Caribbean to complete the quarantine period. “You will have various accommodation options to decide where you want to spend this time.

Some hotels have specific areas available in addition to preferential rates.

Check directly with the establishment of your interest for more details,” says the tourism board.

For more information go to www. mexicancaribbean.travel.

PEOPLE MSC’s Vago is CLIA’s new Global Chairman MSC Cruises’ former Executive Chairman, Pierfrancesco Vago, has been announced as CLIA’s new Global Chairman, effective immediately. Vago, who also served as MSC’s CEO from 2003 to 2013, takes over the Global Chairman role from Adam Goldstein. Vago is the first European to serve in the role of CLIA Global Chairman. During his time as CEO of MSC Cruises, Vago helped the company achieve over 800% growth. As Executive Chairman, he continues to cement MSC’s position as one of the largest providers of cruise vacations in the world. He previously served as Chairman of CLIA Europe in 2014.

Goldstein, who recently completed his second term as Global Chairman of CLIA, said it has been an “honour” to serve these past two years and that he is “proud of all that we have accomplished together, even as we have faced unprecedented challenges.”

February 4, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 21

NEWS

Emerald Cruises launches Oberammergau sailings and Earlybird savings VANCOUVER — Emerald Cruises has announced 2022 Oberammergau sailings that combine show tickets with a Danube River cruise, plus savings of $2,500 per couple.

The 10-day voyages include departures in May, June, July and September 2022, giving guests plenty of flexibility when planning their trip. Depending on the departure date, guests will either begin or end their trip with an eight-day sailing aboard one of Emerald’s modern 180-passenger river ships along the Danube. Itineraries visit four countries – Hungary, Slovakia, Austria and Germany – with port calls in Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna as well as small towns and villages. Daily tour options include a guided bike tour in Vienna, a hike to Bratislava castle and leisurely paced walking tours.

The Passion Play portion of the journey includes one-day admission to the play, a one-night stay in both Munich and Oberammergau with tours of both cities, transfers to or from the airport and ship, and some meals.

Guests booking their Passion Play itinerary by May 16, 2021 will receive a savings of $2,500 per couple at a starting price of $4,820 per person, plus those booking a suite on the Horizon Deck will receive a €150 onboard credit per person. In addition, those who

book by Feb. 28, 2021 and pay in full 12 months in advance of departure date will receive a limited-time Super Earlybird savings of an additional 10% off the cruise portion only (does not apply to Category D/E or ES cabins). As with all Emerald sailings, all daily excursions, meals, gratuities, port charges, ship transfers and wine and beer with dinner and lunch are included in the price of the sailing.

The Passion Play portion of the journey includes one-day admission to the play, a one-night stay in both Munich and Oberammergau, transfers and some meals.

In addition, all bookings come with the line’s flexible booking policy that allows guests to defer travel plans and transfer to an alternate departure date or itinerary up to 60 days prior to departure, with no Emerald Cruises fees.

The Deposit Protection Plan (value of $125 per person) is a complimentary inclusion in all bookings and allows guests flexibility with their travel dates without having to worry about losing their deposits.

For groups looking to attend the Passion Play, Emerald Cruises’ Group Value Program is applicable to groups as small as 10 guests. Perks include one tour conductor credit with every

PEOPLE Tim Morgan joins The Affluent Traveler Collection Travel industry veteran Tim Morgan, formerly of TPI and Virtuoso, has landed at The Affluent Traveler Collection (ATC) as its new Vice President, effective immediately. Morgan previously spent 13 years at TPI where he eventually became Vice President, and prior to that served five years as globally elected chair of Virtuoso’s technology committee. He joins ATC during a period of significant year-over-year growth, despite 2020’s downturn. This year is off to a promising start, with 19% more suppliers than last year and the addition of over US$80 million in new agency revenue.

22 | TRAVELWEEK | February 4, 2021

nine paying guests, and Group Amenity Points (GAP), which is a group choice of unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks onboard (not including minibar) or a $50 discount, or €50 onboard credit.

Group quotes can be obtained by contacting Emerald Cruises’ Groups Specialist at 1-844-788-7987 or groups@ gmeraldcruises.ca.

The once-in-a-decade Passion Play in Oberammergau, Germany, which depicts the life and death of Jesus, was originally scheduled for 2020 but was pushed back to 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Considered the world’s longest-running play, it first started in 1634 and has been performed only 42 times since then.

G Adventures’ latest survey finds what matters most to travellers TORONTO — What will matter most to travellers post-pandemic and how will they want to give back to local communities? G Adventures found the answers in a new survey of more than 1,000 Canadians.

The survey, says founder Bruce Poon Tip, was designed to reveal travellers’ ‘retravel resolutions’ in terms of why they want to head out into the world again, what’s most important to them when they do, and how will they change their travel behaviours to have a more positive impact on the planet and its people.

The results, adds Poon Tip, will give agents even more reason to book their clients now for travel later, once restrictions are lifted.

“It’s apparent travellers want their holidays to be more meaningful after this forced hiatus for international travel. They want their money to support local people in the destinations they go to and the best way for people to show their support now is to make a commitment to travel, so these communities can benefit later,” he said.

Here are some key findings from the survey: REASONS TO TRAVEL AGAIN When asked the main reason why they wanted to travel again, the top answer from respondents was to immerse themselves in a different culture

NEWS Credit Intrepid Travel

(64%), followed by the desire to reconnect with the world (57%). One-third of respondents (34%) are also looking to connect with nature on their next international trip.

“It’s apparent travellers want their holidays to be more meaningful after this forced hiatus for international travel.“ WHAT’S IMPORTANT TO TRAVELLERS? When it comes to what is important to Canadians when they travel again, the majority consider the most important factor in their holiday choice to be that their money benefits local people (77%), followed by ensuring wildlife is protected where they go (51%). Nearly half of travellers (49%) want to avoid over-touristed destinations on their next trip, with 63% of Canadians stating that they will visit more remote places/less visited areas of a destination when they retravel.

BIG SMALL ACTIONS Respondents were also asked to commit to one ‘big small action’ they could take when international travel returns. The most common commitment was to support local people and businesses at 37%, followed closely by

Antarctica, Pleneau Island

doing more research before they book their trip (34%). Another 17% of travellers making a commitment to reduce plastic and/or bring a reusable bottle with them when they go.

Intrepid launches limited-time Antarctica sale TORONTO — Intrepid Travel is slashing its prices of Antarctica tours by as much as 25% for a limited time.

The sale applies to bookings made from Jan. 27 to March 31, 2021, for travel in the 2021/2022 and 2022/2023

PEOPLE Cruise veteran Steve Smotrys is Seabourn’s new VP, Global Sales Cruise industry veteran Steve Smotrys has been named Seabourn’s new vice president of Global Sales, effective immediately. Taking over the role from Chris Austin who departed the company last month, Smotrys will be responsible for Seabourn’s overall global sales efforts and leading the teams that support travel advisor communities in North America, Europe, the U.K., Asia and Australia.

Prior to joining Seabourn, Smotrys served as vice president of Sales and Trade Marketing at Cunard North America. He first joined the Carnival Corporation family of brands in 2000 with Princess Cruises, and over his nearly 20 years within the Corporation he has led teams in Revenue Management, Market Planning, Shore Excursions and Sales.

seasons. The offer cannot be combined with any other discount, is valid on select departures and cabins and applies to voyage fare only. It is not applicable on land tours, additional onboard activities, additional hotel accommodation or transfers, flights, travel insurance and does not apply to group bookings. A deposit is required at time of booking with full payment due at 95 days prior to departure.

The limited-time offer includes a range of tours, including: • Best of Antarctica: This 11-day extended version of Intrepid’s classic Antarctica cruise is priced from $9,200 (with discount) and provides an extra day on the Antarctica Peninsula. Guests will enjoy Zodiac excursions and explore ice-filled bays and channels.

• WWF Giants of Antarctica: This 11-day expedition, which starts at $12,801 with the discount, was designed in partnership with World Wildlife Fund Australia. Guests will travel with Dr. Ari Friedlaender and a team of researchers in peak humpback whale season to learn about whale research techniques and marine conservation.

• Antarctica Whale Journey: While on this 11-day journey, which is priced from $12,801 with the discount, guests will follow whales as they migrate south for the winter and spend extra time exploring the Great White Continent.

February 4, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 23

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