Canada’s Travel Trade News July 15, 2021 travelweek.ca
Hawaii's back and better than ever It's a perfect storm - in a good way say industry reps in destination pg. 6
More questions than answers when it comes to vaccinations and travel
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Heading west, and south: Porter's big expansion plans All the details about AmaWaterways' new Colombia sailings
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Travel with mixed vaccinations - or no vaccinations? Front-line agents are fielding every question, even as answers are few and far between by Kathryn Folliott TORONTO — Throughout the pandemic agents have been doing what they do best - helping their clients. But there are so many questions, and sometimes the answers are few and far between. In fact there have been times over the past 16 months - with the ever-changing policy updates from suppliers, followed by the staggering lists of entry requirements from destinations, and of course, Canada’s own byzantine travel restrictions - the learning curve for travel agents has looked more like a straight-up vertical rock wall. With eased travel restrictions now in place for fully-vaccinated Canadians, and with more restrictions likely lifting in the very near future, more bookings are coming in - and more questions. And once again agents are on the front lines. Much of the uncertainty right now is about proof of vaccination. Canada’s use of the AstraZeneca vaccine no doubt saved countless lives especially as the third wave peaked in April 2021. But thousands of Canadians who got first doses of AstraZeneca and second doses of Pfizer or Moderna following recommendations from the federal government - are now wondering if the mixed dose regime will impact their travel plans. Barbados’ Ministry of Health and Wellness, for example, currently categorizes travellers with mixed vaccine brands as unvaccinated. For now at least, any travellers to Barbados who are fully vaccinated, but with more than one brand, must follow the protocols for unvaccinated travellers. That includes a five-day quarantine upon arrival. “As a tourism destination we are surely aware of how this stance would affect the vacation plans of Canadian travellers,” said Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., in response to a travel agent’s inquiry. No doubt BTMI is just as eager as the travel agent - and her client - to see the Ministry’s decision on fully vaccinated travellers updated to include
mixed doses. BTMI notes that with ever-changing COVID policies, information and protocols are likely to change. Regular and official updates can be found at barbadostravelprotocols.com. Barbados has long been a favourite for sun and sand vacations. So have Jamaica and Cuba. Mixed vaccinations won’t be a prob-
For now at least, any travellers to Barbados who are fully vaccinated, but with more than one brand, must follow the protocols for unvaccinated travellers. lem for Canadian travellers, says the Jamaica Tourist Board. “Jamaica’s Ministry of Health will consider anyone who has received two doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine to be fully vaccinated, regardless of whether they have received different brands,” says the JTB.
More information is at visitjamaica. com/travelauthorization. Cuba meanwhile is not making any distinction between vaccinated or non-vaccinated travellers, says Nieves Ricardo with the Cuba Tourist Board. “The country’s approach is that vaccinated travellers still can carry and transmit the virus, so the entry requirements are the same for vaccinated or non-vaccinated,” she says. Currently Cuba waives the PCR test prior to entering Cuba, for Canadians traveling direct from Canada on Canadian flights. And there’s no quarantine if they go to an all-inclusive hotel. Guests can use all the facilities of the hotel, but for the first 24 hours they should stay at their booked hotels, wear a mask and social distance until they get the results of the free PCR test they receive at the Cuban airport upon arrival, says Ricardo. The PCR test Canadians need to re-enter Canada is done right at Cuba’s hotels, at a cost of US$30. While the vast majority of Canadians visiting Cuba stay at all-inclusive resorts, Ricardo notes that clients planning to stay at private homes, B&Bs or with Cuban families need to quaranJuly 15, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 3
TOP NEWS tine 6 days at specific government designated hotels, and take a Day 5 PCR test too, in addition to the on-arrival PCR test. Even before the question of mixed doses came up, many AstraZeneca-vaccinated Canadians were expressing concerns that their vaccine might exclude them from certain destinations, notably the U.S., where AstraZeneca didn’t get FDA approval. Last month Prime Minister Trudeau made assurances that AstraZenecavaccinated Canadians won’t face roadblocks. “We will definitely make sure that people who got two or one AstraZeneca dose will not be on disadvantage when they want to travel,” Trudeau said as he announced Canada’s 2-track system for proof of vaccination.
Travellers must use the ArriveCAN app, with no exemptions. “But the PHAC rep recommended travelling with a photo of your vaccination confirmation or a hard paper copy – just in case.” Everyone remembers the handwringing following reports that NYC’s ‘Springsteen on Broadway’ planned to turn away AstraZeneca-vaccinated theatre-goers. In a matter of hours, the show’s vaccination policy was updated to include AstraZeneca. Cruise lines - at least those requiring full vaccination - have also found a way to expand eligibility, as another travel agent found. Despite some initial confusion, major cruise lines seem to be favouring an approach that accepts vaccines authorized not just by the FDA, but also by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Agents are also hearing plenty of TRAVELWEEK
questions about unvaccinated kids and travel. For family vacations, the parents and teens may be double-dosed, but the younger family members - kids under the age of 12 - aren’t yet. The federal government’s guidance so far is that unvaccinated children arriving back in Canada must still quarantine at home for 14 days. But what about unaccompanied minors (UMs)? Lesley Keyter, CEO and founder of Calgary’s The Travel Lady Agency, got that head-scratcher recently. “Someone wanted information on entry to Canada of an unaccompanied minor. Apparently this lady had called the airline, the airport and Border Services and no one could give her an answer,” said Keyter. Keyter dug down into the info on the federal government’s travel site and found that different testing and quarantine rules apply for UMs versus a dependent child entering Canada under the terms of a written agreement or court order regarding custody, access or parenting. “More phone calls from confused members of the public,” said Keyter. Keyter, who attended a recent ACTA webinar with presentations by the Public Health Agency of Canada, says a
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new ‘travel wizard’ tool from the federal government - users answer questions, and the tool provides answers about travel restrictions - could be a big help. The tool can be found at https://travel. gc.ca/travel-covid/travel-restrictions/ wizard-start. The federal government’s 2-track proof of vaccination system now includes an upgrade to the ArriveCAN app for vaccination status info. Says Keyter: “One of the questions [at the ACTA webinar] was, why is the ArriveCAN [system] all digital? Many Canadians have said that they don’t use their phones or are not proficient online. The PHAC rep said they recommend getting a family member or loved one to help with the input of the information into the app - as there is no digital exemption. She did however say that they recommend travelling with a photo of your vaccination confirmation or a hard paper copy – just in case.” Got a story idea? Questions or comments? Write to us at editorial@travelweek.ca
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Europe invites the curious
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What’s it like travelling to Hawaii now? Travelweek reports fully booked hotels and car rentals By Cindy Sosroutomo TORONTO — If there’s one takeaway from Hawaii at the moment, it’s this: book your clients early. Devin Kinasz, Travelweek’s publisher who visited the Island of Hawaii, Maui and Oahu from June 4 to July 5, witnessed for herself the much talked-about pent-up demand that travel experts have been touting throughout the pandemic, reporting while on location over 85% occupancy rates at approximately a dozen hotels, sold out land tours and jam-packed beaches. Hawaii, with relaxed travel restrictions, reasonable airfares, fantastic travel deals and low COVID-19 case numbers, is seeing a welcome return to tourism since the start of the global pandemic. And with increased connectivity from Canada this winter with Air Canada and WestJet, the sun-soaked destination is anticipating a healthy number of Canadians, too. “This winter in particular, Hawaii has the best connectivity with Canada with an increased number of seats and new routes, bringing the destination closer to Ontario and Quebec, as well as service to the four major islands from Alberta and B.C.,” Lorenzo Campos, Account Director for Hawaii Tourism Canada at VoX International. “Canadians can now fly nonstop with multi-island itineraries, giving travellers an opportunity to experience each island, from modern and cosmopolitan Oahu with a town & country vibe, to rejuvenating and laidback Kauai, diverse Hawaii Island, and quiet and traditional Molokai, amongst other beautiful islands.” Last month, WestJet announced Dreamliner service from Western Canada to Maui and new nonstop service from Calgary to Kona and Lihue this winter. In total, 57 weekly roundtrip flights will be available on 10 nonstop routes between Canada and Hawaii with WestJet, more than any other airline. Air Canada, meanwhile, will launch its first Montreal-Honolulu and Toronto-Maui flights this winter, both of which complement its longstanding services from Calgary and Vancouver to the Hawaiian Islands. Increased connectivity, coupled with eased travel measures for fully vacci6 | TRAVELWEEK | July 15, 2021
Waikiki, Oahu
nated travellers, will position the destination for a reasonably healthy winter season. As of July 8, 2021, travellers fully vaccinated in the United States or its Territories can enter Hawaii on domestic flights without pre-travel testing or quarantining, starting the 15th day after the completion of their vaccination. Plus, as part of the state’s ‘Safe Travels Hawaii’ program, travellers from Canada have been able to bypass the state’s
“The entire city of Kona was entirely sold out one Saturday night. Car rentals were also hard to come by, as were restaurant reservations. It’s obvious that Hawaii is bouncing back in a big way.” mandatory 10-day quarantine since mid-December 2020 when presenting a negative COVID-19 test result from a lab identified by Air Canada or WestJet prior to departure. And since June 15, 2021, all passengers who are not in quarantine have been free to travel between the islands without restrictions. “Hawaii is and always has been a very popular destination with Canadians,” added Campos. “The destination has been perceived as a ‘safe’ destination due to its quick and early control of COVID-19, and this has drawn the
attention of Canadians. Nonetheless, Canadians, as any other traveller and local, will still have to follow certain protocols while they are in the Hawaiian Islands as Hawaii continues to assure their residents and visitors are healthy.” Of course, with visitor numbers on the rise and tourism businesses gradually going back online following months of temporary closures, travellers can anticipate sold out or limited supply of offerings, particularly car rentals, on the Islands at first. Said Kinasz of her recent visit: “While I was on the Island of Hawaii, the entire city of Kona was entirely sold out one Saturday night, with all hotels and Airbnbs fully booked. Car rentals were also hard to come by, as were restaurant reservations. It’s obvious that Hawaii is bouncing back in a big way, with daily life returning to normal for the most part. “The overwhelming takeaway from my trip is that Canadians need to book early if they plan to get some sun this winter. And with extremely flexible cancellation policies right now, there simply is no excuse to delay your trip to the Aloha State.” WHAT HAWAII’S HOTELS ARE SAYING During her stay, Kinasz met with several top hotels, many of which reported fully book weekend occupancies. Strong booking numbers prove that it’s business as usual, said Charles Head, General Manager of Fairmont Orchid, who told Kinasz that all food and beverage outlets are now open along with the hotel’s award-winning, open-air Spa Without Walls and adjacent Mauna
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ETC launches ‘Europe Invites the Curious’ consumer campaign
The SurfJack Hotel
Lani Golf Course. “At a time such as this, people have a pent-up desire to travel to a place where they can leave feeling changed for the better,” said Head. “We have remained wholeheartedly committed to the safety and wellbeing of our guests and colleagues, and we’ve taken great care to ensure from an operational perspective that our extensive health and safety protocols are consistently in
“People want beach destinations so they can relax and forget about all the stress of the past year. So much leisure is coming back right now, especially from the West Coast mainland.” alignment with the State and County of Hawaii’s health and safety mandates.” Noting how travel demand for Hawaii has continued to rise at a faster pace than initially anticipated, Head recommends visitors book rental cars and dining reservations in advance of their stay. “It’s best to have everything booked in advance as opposed to feeling disappointed upon arrival,” he added. “As a Canadian, I particularly look forward to welcoming more of our valued Canadian visitors as the country opens up and enjoys a successful vaccine rollout. I’ve found that Hawaii Island resonates es-
pecially well with our Canadian guests because there’s so much outdoor adventure, natural beauty and gracious hospitality to be enjoyed.” Asami Sam Arita, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Hoshino Resorts/ The Surfjack Hotel, referred to this time in Hawaii’s recovery as “a perfect storm,” with all necessary elements coming into play at the exact same time. “When I say perfect storm, I mean that airfares are reasonable, we have a lot of hotels offering great rates, and Hawaii has a very low COVID rate. All this make people feel safe. People want beach destinations so they can relax and forget about all the stress of the past year,” said Arita. “So much leisure is coming back right now, especially from the West Coast mainland, as many states have been opening up and Hawaii gradually relaxes travel restrictions.” And speaking for Napili Kai Beach Resort, Sales and Marketing Manager Melissa Simpson told Kinasz that she’s seeing huge interest from the Canadian market. “We have so many loyal repeat visitors from Canada and they are eagerly awaiting to come back and visit our hotel again,” she said. “We know from speaking with agents and guests in Canada that they are more and more eager to come back and visit Hawaii as soon as possible. We have already booked many of them again for the 2021 holidays and into 2021, including some big groups.”
TORONTO — A new campaign just launched by the European Travel Commission (ETC), in partnership with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations, aims to inspire Canadians to rediscover Europe this summer and fall. The ETC worked with its member National Tourism Organizations (NTOs) to develop the ‘Europe Invites the Curious’ campaign, which is co-funded by the European Union. The multi-channel campaign include all the latest updates and information about travel experiences that consumers can enjoy in Europe, with a focus on nature, history, culture, and gastronomy. “As Europe is set to welcome Canadian travellers back, we are thrilled to join forces with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations to encourage transatlantic travel again. Canadians are crucial for Europe,” said Miguel Gallego, ETC's Head of Marketing. On July 1 the EU added Canada to its ‘green’ list, with a recommendation that all EU states gradually lift restrictions on Canadian non-essential travellers. Says Pascal Prinz, Chair, Canada Chapter, ETC: “After watching the EURO soccer championship on TV and being stuck at home for months, it’s now time to get out there and rediscover Europe. Thanks to the accelerating vaccination rollout in Canada, we are hopeful for the late summer and a strong fall season. The pandemic has not stopped the love of Canadians for Europe. If anything, Canadians have missed Europe even more since the border closure 16 months ago. We can’t wait to welcome our Canadian friends back.” “We are excited to embark on this campaign, along with our long-time partner the European Travel Commission, as Canadians have a deep connection with Europe and are eager to travel again soon,” says Mark Galardo, Senior Vice President, Network Planning and Revenue Management at Air Canada. Full and up to date information about current travel conditions in Europe is at: reopen.europa.eu. July 15, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 7
WORLD NEWS to show proof of travel medical insurance. All travellers will still be required to complete a Health Pass prior to arrival. Costa Rica does not require proof of negative PCR testing upon entry for visitors. Declaring Venice’s waterways a “national monument,” Italy is moving ahead with its pledge to ban large cruise ships from sailing into the lagoon city, which risked being declared an imperiled world heritage site by the United Nations later this month. The ban is set to take effect Aug. 1 and applies to the lagoon basin near St. Mark’s Square and the Giudecca Canal. Discussion about the proposed ban had been going on for years.
AIRLINES & AIRPORTS IATA is urging countries to follow new guidance on travel from the World Health Organization that recommends a risk-based approach to COVID-19 measures for international travel. “It’s long past time for governments to incorporate data into risk-based decision-making process for reopening borders,” said IATA’s Director General, Willie Walsh. “Consumers face a maze of confusing, uncoordinated and fast-changing border entry rules that discourage them from traveling, causing economic hardship across those employed in the travel and tourism sector." According to IATA’s latest passenger survey, 70% of recent travellers thought the rules were a challenge to understand, he added.
Qatar has reopened its borders to travellers who’ve been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The new streamlined set of measures, designed to make travelling to Qatar as easy as possible, will also allow those who are fully vaccinated to visit without the need for quarantine. However, all visitors – vaccinated or non-vaccinated – will still be required to take a PCR test up to 72 hours prior to travel. International visitors must register and upload required documentation such as a vaccination certificate, valid PCR test up to 72 hours prior to travel, as well as personal details through the ‘Ehteraz’ website at ehteraz.gov.qa.
The GTAA and Switch Health are offering COVID-19 testing services at Toronto Pearson Airport. Consumers and passengers can book tests in advance via Switch Health's booking portal: switchhealth.ca/healthyairport. Gold standard RT-PCR COVID-19 tests are available either through expedited 3-6 hour or standard 12-24 hour turnaround times and rapid antigen tests are available with results in under 30 minutes. Testing will be sold in a traditional clinic setting on Level 3 of the Value Park Garage (VPG), open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, as well as by drive-through on Level 1 of the VPG.
Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Park Hyatt Toronto
HOTELS
DESTINATIONS Costa Rica is bringing back cruising and easing measures for fully vaccinated visitors. Starting in September 2021, cruise vessels that guarantee 100% vaccination coverage of their crew and 95% of passengers who are of age to be vaccinated will be authorized to enter Costa Rica. And starting Aug. 1, 2021, fully vaccinated travellers will no longer be required 8 | TRAVELWEEK | July 15, 2021
The reimagined Park Hyatt Toronto will reopen its doors in September 2021featuring brand new interiors, a permanent art collection and luxury guestrooms that overlook Toronto’s famed Yorkville neighbourhood. The heritage-designated south tower has been completely restored and will be home to 65 luxury rental apartments. Other enhancements include the iconic 17th-floor cocktail bar, which will now be known as the Writers Room, paying homage to literary legends that once stayed at the hotel. The hotel also aims to be known as a spa and wellness destination.
NEWS
Porter eyes massive expansion with more U.S. sun, plus Mexico and the Caribbean TORONTO — Travel agents are a key factor in Porter Airlines’ success, now and going forward, says the company as it eyes big expansion plans. And that includes travel agents in Western Canada too, as the carrier looks west as well as south. Porter is coming roaring back from the pandemic, with plans for up to 80 new planes, brand new service out of Toronto’s Pearson airport, and new flights to more U.S. sun destinations, plus Mexico and the Caribbean. Just last week the airline announced its plans to resume service on Sept. 8 from its regular Toronto home base, Billy Bishop Airport, to select destinations across Canada, with U.S. service set to resume Sept. 17. Now with with this expansion announcement Porter is setting the bar high with big goals for capacity and network reach. Porter had already introduced service to select U.S. sun destinations over the years, including Orlando in 2015, and Myrtle Beach. However with this latest announcement Porter is ready to widen its network of sun destinations even further, to Mexico and the Caribbean as well. Porter says it wants to ‘transform travel again in the wider North Amer-
ican market.’ The airline is looking not just south, but also west. While passengers - and travel agents - in cities including Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa have long flown with and worked with Porter, now Western Canada will be included in the airline’s network too. Porter’s travel agent portal is at https://www.flyporter.com/en-ca/ services/travel-agents. Agents who are registered can login, or sign up if they're new. “Travel agents are an important part of how Porter sells its flights. We can now create new relationships in Western Canada and look forward to starting this process over the next year ahead of new routes coming online,” Porter Airlines’ Director, Communications and Public Affairs, Brad Cicero, told Travelweek. UP TO 80 NEW JET WITH TRANSCONTINENTAL RANGE Key to the expansion is the introduction of up to 80 Embraer E195-E2 aircraft into Porter’s fleet. The $5.82 billion investment includes 30 firm commitments and 50 purchase right options. Included in the agreement is the ability to convert purchase rights to smaller E190-E2s. Porter says this provides opportunities to introduce nonstop service in markets where connecting flights are often the only option, and also enables higher-frequency service for routes with greater demand.
The new planes have transcontinental range and will enter into service with Porter starting in the second half of 2022. Michael Deluce, president and CEO, Porter Airlines, says Porter intends to operate the E2s to top destinations from Ottawa, Montreal, Halifax and Toronto Pearson International Airport. The introduction of specific routes will be determined in advance of aircraft deliveries, he added. “We are bringing Porter’s distinct style of service to dozens of new North American cities,” said Deluce. “We believe that now is the right time to make this investment as the pandemic resets the aviation landscape. Adding a diverse selection of popular business and leisure destinations to our network means that we are better positioned to serve the needs of many more passengers.” The expansion means Porter will be offer flights from Pearson Airport for the first time, however flights from Porter’s existing hub at downtown Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport remain core to its business and will continue with high-frequency regional service on turboprop aircraft, says Deluce. The E195-E2 accommodates between 120 and 146 passengers. The E2s will not operate at Billy Bishop Airport, says Robert Deluce, founder and executive chairman, Porter Airlines. “Our commitment to Billy Bishop Airport is not changing,” he adds. “Our corporate headquarters at Billy Bishop is being maintained and we will continue serving the same network of regional markets from downtown Toronto. We are moving beyond this existing footprint to welcome more travellers across North America, with an emphasis on providing the sophisticated service that only Porter delivers.” Deluce notes that the E195-E2’s range allows for the creation of a continental route network. Potential markets reach coast to coast in Canada and the U.S., including U.S. sun destinations, plus Mexico and the Caribbean. A destination map is available at fly porter.com, with initial routes to be announced in 2022. The new E195-E2s, combined with Porter’s existing De Havilland Dash 8-400s, mean the airline will have one of the world’s most environmentally sustainable commercial aircraft fleets. July 15, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 9
NEWS
TICO issues Closure Advisory for Jet Airways, with Comp Fund claim info TORONTO — TICO has issued a Closure Advisory for Jet Airways, opening up the process for claims against the Ontario Travel Industry Compensation Fund. Jet Airways, based in Mumbai, India, suspended operations effective April 17, 2019. The airline became officially insolvent when the company was sold on June 22, 2021. The new company will operate as Jet Airways 2.0. TICO issued the following guidance for agents with clients who purchased Jet Airways travel services from a registered Ontario travel agency or website: . Consumers who have purchased Jet Airways travel services from an Ontario registered travel agency or website and did not receive their travel services due to the cessation of the airline may file a claim from the Ontario Travel Industry Compensation Fund for reimbursement. . Consumers may request a claim form from TICO against the Travel Compensation Fund by contacting TICO directly at 1-888-451-8426 or (905) 624-6241 or email tico@tico.ca. There is a legislated six month filing deadline for claims. The deadline to file a claim is December 23, 2021. Agents should advise impacted clients that claims received at TICO beyond the filing deadline will not be valid. TICO also says that all consumers who paid by credit card and who have been charged by the airline should contact their credit card company and request a chargeback (refund) as well as request a claim form from TICO. TICO is also reminding consumers who purchased their Jet Airways travel services from an out-of-province travel agency / website or directly with Jet Airways, that there is no provision under Ontario Regulation 26/05 pursuant to the Travel Industry Act, 2002 for a consumer to claim against the Comp Fund when they have purchased travel services from an out-of-province travel agency or directly from an airline. 10 | TRAVELWEEK | July 15, 2021
AmaWaterways’ Colombia briefing was hosted by President Rudi Schreiner and EVP Kristin Karst (top right)
Countdown to Colombia: AmaWaterways reveals more details & name of new ship TORONTO — When AmaWaterways President and Co-Founder Rudi Schreiner first set sail down Colombia’s Magdalena River six weeks ago, he had very high expectations. By the end of the trip, the destination had exceeded them all. This is the outcome he hopes for all guests when AmaWaterways launches the river cruise industry’s first-ever voyages on Colombia’s famed river. Two seven-night itineraries with preand post-cruise land programs will launch in December 2023 in partnership with Metropolitan Touring, a leading South American tour operator, on a brand new, custom-built, all-suite river cruise ship. To announce the news, both companies hosted a joint virtual press conference that began with Schreiner and executive vice president and co-founder Kristin Karst sharing their initial impressions of Colombia during their 500-mile sojourn this past spring. “I’m always looking at rivers and political and environmental situations, finding out what’s viable to be a future destination,” said Schreiner. “We had already been looking into Colombia before we partnered with Metropolitan.
We did not really know exactly what to expect when we went on the exploration trip but it ended up being magnificent. It was very pleasant on the river, the climate was great, the cities were beautiful, and Cartagena was stunning.” Karst looked back fondly on Colombia’s “colourful history, mouth-watering food and all the great wines and coffees,” and, most importantly, the warm hospitality and genuine people she encountered. “It’s about the people and their smiles, how they welcome you,” she said. “This was so touching and we believe our guests – both our past guests and new ones – will enjoy the destination so much.” Though Schreiner and Karst did not divulge many details about the new ship, saying it was “top secret,” they did confirm it would accommodate approximately 80-100 passengers and will be very luxurious. As for the name, it will fittingly be called AmaMagdalena to reflect “the heart of Colombia,” said Karst. Karst also noted that the announcement couldn’t have been better timed as it came on the heels of the company’s 19th anniversary on July 1, as well as its long-awaited resumption of service following a prolonged pause due to the global pandemic. AmaWaterways previously celebrated its triumphant return to Europe’s rivers on July 3 with the AmaDouro setting sail on Portugal’s Douro river. And today, July 9, Karst will be flying to Eu-
NEWS
Trudeau says it will be “quite a while” before Canada reopens to unvaccinated travellers
rope to host the line’s very first cruise on the AmaKristina, her namesake ship, which will sail the Rhone River in France on July 22. In total, 16 ships in the fleet will be embarking on voyages in France and on the Danube and Rhine rivers between July and mid-September. Advanced bookings show that travellers can’t wait to get back onboard; COQUITLAM — Prime Minister Justin according to Gary Murphy, AmaWa- Trudeau says it will be “quite a while” terways Co-Owner and Senior Vice before Canada reopens its border to President of Sales, advanced sales are unvaccinated travellers. up over 100% for next year. But while “We need to ensure that 2022 is selling well, Murphy is reminding travel agents and travellers that there’s the sacrifices that so still plenty of space available for this many people have made year. “This will be the best time to travel are not for nothing.” in peak season to Europe at exceptional rates,” he said. “Rudi really wanted to get the pump going, he’s putting all Speaking to reporters at a briefing the ships into operation and thankfully in B.C., Trudeau said: “You mentioned we’re getting some sales. It’s a won- that you were wondering when unvacderful opportunity for clients to cruise cinated tourists can start coming to this year as we launch into operation Canada. I can tell you right now that’s all these ships. Europe cannot wait to not going to happen for quite a while.” Travelweek ads:TravelWeek 2016 2021-07-05 8:29 AM Page 1 Trudeau added: “We need to ensure welcome us2020 back.”
that the safety of Canadians, the sacrifices that so many people have made over the past many, many months, are not for nothing. We are not going to jeopardize that by moving too quickly.” Trudeau said he’s aware of the pandemic’s impact on Canada’s tourism industry, and noted the financial assistance programs put in place by the federal government since the start of the pandemic. Many of those programs including CEWS, CERS and CRB have started to wind down, and so far are scheduled to stop in September. Fully vaccinated Canadians and permanent residents returning to Canada no longer have to quarantine, as part of the eased travel restrictions that took effect July 5. However quarantine measures still apply to inbound foreign nationals. The next renewal date for the CanadaU.S. border closure is July 21. Last month Trudeau hinted that further eased travel restrictions could be a matter of weeks, not months, away. “We will move responsibly forward, we will continue with the reopening of our borders, but we will do it in a way that ensures the ongoing safety of all Canadians,” he said.
Agent DecAthlon chAllenge This month’s tips:
Know the rules & regs Everything about cruising Review all systems Who’s flying where? LEARN MORE™ July 15, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 11
NEWS
“Many will not survive without it”: ACTA sounds the alarm as CEWS, CERS and CERB start to wind down TORONTO — ACTA is voicing its grave concern and disappointment that the federal government has still not earmarked any sector-specific support for the travel industry, especially needed now as lifeline programs like CEWS, CRB and CERS start to wind down. For months now ACTA has warned the federal government that many travel agencies and independent travel agents could fail in the face of decreased federal supports. The winding down of the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) and the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS) started July 4 and continue through September, when the programs end. “We are extremely disappointed that the government has not heard our plea for the travel sector - as part of the hardest hit industries - to receive extended support through the end of this year,” said Wendy Paradis, ACTA president. “We will continue our efforts to push for this because we know many will not survive without it.” ACTA has lobbied extensively for continued support for the travel sector, given that borders are still closed and travel advisories remain – and there is no clear plan for re-opening, she adds. There has been no agreement from the government to extend support to the sector, even with a provision in the budget for some support to be extended to November. CEWS, CERS and CRB TIMELINES Paradis notes that CEWS and CERS decline to 60% for the period July 4 to July 31. Effective August 1 to August 28 both programs decline further to 40% and both programs decline to 20% effective August 29, ending on September 25. Not only that, but the Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB) is reduced effective July 18 to 31, from $900 to $540 (after taxes withheld) for a 2-week period. Eligible CRB recipients can apply for a total of 25 periods (50 weeks) between September 27, 2020 and September 25, 2021. 12 | TRAVELWEEK | July 15, 2021
As Paradis notes, many travel agencies have been relying on the wage subsidy and rent subsidy programs and many independent travel agents on the CRB.
“Now is the time to call your MP. Tell them the importance of extending CERS, CEWS, and the CRB in full. Along with ACTA’s advocacy work, travel agents need to do everything they can.” CALL FOR SUPPORT While the House of Commons has shut down for the summer, MPs are still working from their constituency offices, and agents can still make their voice heard. Provinces are also easing restrictions allowing people to hold in-person meetings. “Over the past 15 months, ACTA has asked you to write to your local MP and tell them your story. Now is the time to call and request an in-person meeting if possible. Tell them the importance of extending CERS, CEWS, and the CRB in full. Along with ACTA’s advocacy work, travel agents need to do everything they can, including sharing their stories in local papers and on social media in an effort to get government’s attention,” says Paradis.
Former Wizz Air executive to become WestJet’s new COO CALGARY — WestJet has announced a former Wizz Air top executive as its new Executive Vice-President and Chief Operating Officer, effective this fall. Diederik Pen, who most recently served as Wizz Air’s chief operations officer and brings with him more than 25 years of aviation experience in the Asia-Pacific and European regions, will assume his new role at WestJet following the completion of his immigration process. At that time, acting interim COO, Robert Antoniuk, will take on a new role as Chief Safety, Health and Environment Officer. Pen referenced WestJet’s culture, ambition and vision as the most appealing reasons for him to join the team. “There is an obvious high level of care and respect for doing things the right way for both the people who operate the airline and the guests,” he said. “WestJet is in an exciting position to successfully compete in the rebuild of the aviation industry and I look forward to being a part of that story.” On welcoming Pen to the team, WestJet President and CEO Ed Sims said: “Diederik has an established track record of leading safe, efficient and cost-effective operations through periods of growth and we are thrilled to welcome him to the WestJet family. Diederik’s breadth of experience spans line management, commercial, operational and leadership roles in airports, for flag carriers and low-cost airlines, and we look forward to his expertise as we enter recovery and build for the future.”
NEWS
Rocky Mountaineer clarifies inaccurate item that slighted travel agents
Flair Airlines heading back to the U.S. with service to 6 sun destinations
Sunwing cancels domestic flight program for summer 2021
TORONTO — Rocky Mountaineer has cleared up a recent item in The Globe and Mail that inaccurately slighted travel agents. The item referenced the rail company’s new Canadian Resident Offer that will save Canadians up to $1,400 per couple. The Globe reported that the offer is only available to book directly through Rocky Mountaineer, and that bookings made through travel agents are ineligible. Following negative feedback from the retail trade, Rocky Mountaineer told Travelweek that it is requesting a correction in The Globe and Mail to clarify the news item.
EDMONTON — Flair Airlines is heading back to the U.S., with service to six U.S. destinations scheduled to begin in October 2021. The ultra low-cost carrier is offering flights to Fort Lauderdale, Orlando-Sanford, Phoenix-Mesa, Hollywood-Burbank, Palm Springs and Las Vegas. This isn’t Flair’s first foray south of the border, but it’s certainly the most ambitious. The ULCC first began flying to the U.S. in November 2018 from Winnipeg, Edmonton and Toronto. With this new schedule just released, eight Canadian gateways - Halifax, Montreal, Kitchener-Waterloo, Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Ottawa and Abbotsford - will receive service to a variety of the U.S. destinations. Jones says Flair’s goal is 50 aircraft in five years. The ULCC’s expansion to 26 destinations most recently included Montreal on July 1.
TORONTO — Sunwing has cancelled its summer 2021 domestic flights. The company posted a Travel Advisory on its website: “Please note that due to ongoing travel restrictions, our summer domestic flight program has been cancelled for all flights within Canada.” Customers with impacted flights will be contacted over the coming weeks, says Sunwing. On May 21 Sunwing extended its temporary suspension of operations until July 29, 2021. Sunwing’s agreement with the Canada Enterprise Emergency Funding Corporation (CEEFC) to provide financing for customer refunds, with commission protection, came into effect June 25, 2021.
The Globe reported that the offer is only available to book directly through Rocky Mountaineer, and not through agents. “The Canadian Resident Offer is available for travel agents to book and is commissionable,” says Nicole Ford, Director of Communications and Stakeholder Relations. “This offer can be booked through the Rocky Mountaineer call centre. If an agent is looking to book a client with this offer, they can do so by calling one of our inhouse vacation consultants. This resident offer can also be combined with a special offer available with Fairmont one eligible bookings, to create even greater value.” With the Canadian Resident Offer, travellers can save up to $1,400 per couple on vacation packages of five days or more. The Fairmont promotion includes savings of up to $2,900 per couple on packages that pair the train with overnight stays in Fairmont properties. Rocky Mountaineer resumed operations earlier this week with its first route since the start of the pandemic. The two-day rail journey departed Vancouver on July 5 for Kamloops with 85 passengers onboard.
Air Canada’s Coast-toCoast Flight Pass on sale through July 27, 2021 MONTREAL — Air Canada’s new Coastto-Coast Flight Pass offers a flexible and convenient pre-paid package of one-way flights. Packages available include four, eight or 20 credit passes valid for one, two or five travellers, respectively. The pass is available for purchase until July 27, 2021, and is good for travel until July 27, 2022. With this Flight Pass passengers are able to book, change, or cancel up to one hour prior to departure. “Whether you’re looking to discover a Canadian destination you haven’t seen before, or to reconnect with friends and family when the time is right, you can use this pass to go anywhere we fly to in Canada,” says the airline. Aeroplan membership is required to purchase and travel using the Coast-toCoast Flight pass. Enrolment in Aeroplan is free.
VIA Rail’s Ocean service set to resume Aug. 11, 2021 MONTREAL — VIA Rail says service on its Ocean route is scheduled to resume Aug. 11, 2021. The Ocean was the last route to be suspended due to COVID-19. Service from Halifax to Montreal will restart Aug. 11. On the return, service from Montreal to Halifax will restart Aug. 15. As with its other services, VIA Rail’s return to operation on the Ocean will occur progressively beginning with one weekly roundtrip. Earlier this month VIA announced it was ramping up service on its Quebec City - Windsor corridor to more than 50%. In December 2020 VIA Rail resumed service between Winnipeg and Vancouver, followed by Winnipeg - Toronto in May 2021. Since the beginning of the pandemic, VIA Rail has been in regular contact with public health authorities and provincial governments in Eastern Canada. The gradual resumption of the Ocean was made possible following the progressive reopening of provinces and the recent developments related to health July 15, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 13
NEWS measures in the region, says VIA. To provide a safe travel experience to its passengers and employees, various measures will be implemented, including enhanced cleaning, air ventilation system upgrades and modified onboard services. "The COVID-19 pandemic has had an important impact on the travel options of Canadians in Eastern Canada," said Cynthia Garneau, President and CEO. "To follow and respect guidelines and recommendations from public health authorities and provincial governments, we could not provide our passengers the service and frequencies offered under normal circumstances. Our objective has always been the safe resumption of the Ocean when conditions allowed it, and we could not be happier to be able to finally proceed with this gradual return to service in this region.” The VIA Customer Centre can be reached by email at service@viarail.ca or by phone at 1-888-VIA-RAIL (1-888842-7245).
Royalton CHIC Suites Cancun to host first annual Food + Drink Experience TORONTO — The world’s best chefs will be descending upon Cancun in September to help Blue Diamond Resorts celebrate all things food & drink. Royalton CHIC Suites Cancun
14 | TRAVELWEEK | July 15, 2021
Taking place Sept. 19-26, the first annual Food + Drink Experience at the all-inclusive Royalton CHIC Suites Cancun Resort & Spa will feature mouth-watering cuisine, mixology demonstrations, beach barbecues, signature chef-pairing dinners and lavish after-hours parties. A total of 16 internationally-renowned chefs will lead the week-long culinary festival, including: Aarón Sánchez, Ray ‘Dr. BBQ’ Lampe, Ted Reader, Dean Max, Cindy Hutson, Rick Moonen, Bernard Guillas, Tim Grandinetti, Jorge Valencia, Federico Lopez, Reyna García, Cesar Castañeda, Alfredo Romero, Freddy Chi, Carlo Magno and Zaida Fernandez. The seven-day event will be jampacked with exclusive experiences, including cooking exhibitions from Chefs Castañeda and Valencia, a beach barbecue with Chef Chi, a barbecue pairing hosted by Chefs Reader and Lampe, chocolate and mezcal pairings with Chef Benjamin Nava, as well as the first-ever Mexican Caribbean Tiki Mixology Competition. “We’re excited to present this experience in the energy-driven environment that is Royalton CHIC Suites Cancun that many of our guests are sharing together for the first time since the pandemic,” says Jordi Pelfort, President of Hotels and Resort at Sunwing Travel Group, parent company of Blue Diamond Resorts. “We have partnered with some of the world’s best chefs to bring a diverse palate to Cancun and the Food +
Drink Experience that represents both local and global cuisine and cultures. In collaboration with our chef partners, Royalton CHIC Suites Cancun staff and Blue Diamond Resorts team, we are thrilled to welcome guests to what we hope is the first Food + Drink Experi-
“We’re excited to present this experience in the energy-driven environment that is Royalton CHIC Suites Cancun that many of our guests are sharing together for the first time since the pandemic.” ence of many to come,” added Pelfort. As the second largest travel market in the Mexican Caribbean, Cancun is the most recognized Mexican tourist destination in the world and currently the most connected. Since reopening to international guests in June 2020, health and safety protocols have been put in place, including COVID-19 and antigen testing for guests returning to North American locales, advanced procedures at the resort level and more.
Scenic and Emerald to resume service in Europe this month VANCOUVER — At long last, Scenic Group’s Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours and Emerald Cruises are ready to return to Europe’s rivers, starting this month in Portugal. Following a long hiatus due to the global pandemic, both brands will resume sailing in late July on the Douro River, followed by the Rhine River in August. Also next month, Emerald Cruises will add the Danube while Scenic will resume services on France’s Garonne, Gironde and Dordogne rivers in Bordeaux. As for the iconic Danube river, Scenic will kick off sailings in September. “With Europe opening more widely to international travellers, it’s exciting to see Emerald Cruises and Scenic resuming sailing,” said Lisa McCaskill, VP of Sales and Marketing for Scenic
NEWS Group Canada. “Consumer confidence is building with the return to the European rivers this summer and we are pleased to be experiencing a boost in 2022 bookings. “We are hopeful that with the great progress made with vaccination programs, Canadian travel restrictions will be lifted within the next few months and Canadian residents will soon be able to join us on the rivers of Europe.” Emerald’s first Douro River sailing will depart Porto on July 31, while Rhine River cruises will set sail from Basel on Aug. 9, followed by the Danube on Aug. 30. In late November, the brand will resume Christmas Market sailings on both the Rhine and the Danube rivers. In total, Emerald is expected to operate no fewer than 38 river cruises in Europe between July and December 2021. Scenic’s resumption of service will start on Portugal’s Douro River on July 30, followed by France’s Bordeaux on Aug. 29, the Rhine on Aug. 30 and the Danube on Sept. 27. It will operate six Bordeaux river cruises, eight Rhine River sailings, four Danube departures as well as three Christmas Market cruisHKS_7x4-875in_EN_062021_op.pdf 1 8/6/2021 es in November and December. A
multi-river sailing will also take guests from Amsterdam to Budapest along the Rhine and Danube Rivers, with the brand set to operate two departures of the 15-day ‘Jewels of Europe’ river cruise. Both brands are offering added peace of mind with their Flexible Booking Policy that allows guests to defer their travel plans or cancel up to 60 days prior to departure with no additional booking fees (third party fees may apply). For more details on booking policies and health and safety protocols go to www.emeraldcruises.ca and www.scenic.ca. Last month, Scenic announced its full 2022/2023 Europe and Mediterranean collection featuring new voyages, land journeys and an early booking bonus of 10% when paying in full 12 months before departure. Emerald Cruises also recently announced reimagined Special Interest Cruises for 2022. The brand is also counting down the days until the January 2022 debut of the Emerald Azzurra, a 100-guest superyacht that will sail the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Black and Red 14:15:59 seas.
ACV adds Silversea to its cruise portfolio MONTREAL — Air Canada Vacations has added Silversea Cruises to its cruise portfolio, giving travellers more options than ever before to sail the high seas. Noting how Silversea boasts more destinations than any other cruise line, sailing to over 900 destinations around the world, Nino Montagnese, Vice President at ACV, commented on the value the cruise line brings to both the tour operator and luxury travellers. “Our partnership with Silversea Cruises is yet another important step in broadening our selection of offerings for Canadians looking to set sail. It gives travellers access to a luxury cruise line as they benefit from the trust and convenience of flights aboard Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge,” he said. “We’re looking forward to continuing to help them create their perfect vacation at sea by providing them with more options than ever before.” To celebrate the new partnership, ACV has launched an exclusive intro-
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NEWS ductory offer that includes 2% bonus commission on Silversea cruise bookings. The offer is applicable to new individual bookings of Silversea Cruises made between June 28 and July 26, 2021, on any sailings in 2021, 2022 and 2023 for any category. Cruisers can also take advantage of an all-inclusive beverage plan, unlimited WiFi and gratuities, personalized butler service, shore excursions and more.
Bahia Principe
Bahia Principe Rewards gets a long list of upgrades MIAMI — Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts has revamped its travel agent loyalty program and platform to better recognize and incentivize the North American travel agent community. The company says it has upgraded Bahia Principe Rewards “as a testament to Bahia Principe’s commitment to the U.S. and Canada trade community.” Bahia Principe Rewards is a pointsbased system that allows members to earn points by booking hotel stays and exchanging them for a range of prizes. The program now features updated incentives and benefits to better recognize travel agents’ trust and loyalty to the hospitality brand. The updates include: . Loyalty points do not expire this year and are redeemable at any time with unlimited transfers among teammates. The required points to redeem nights have been reduced and unified by brand. . Members may additionally take advantage of the newest triple point promotion, while still redeeming for less. . Agents can register reservations starting on the first day of the sale and up to three months after their clients' have checked in at a Bahia Principe property. Additionally, travel agents have up to six months to review or claim a denied booking. . Travel agent partners may begin to enjoy rates with up to 30% off per person on their own bookings. . Cancellation fees and point penalties on agent bookings will now be waived until the agent’s arrival day. . Bahia Principe Rewards' support desk has been expanded across new platforms; partners may now reach 16 | TRAVELWEEK | July 15, 2021
customer service via email, WhatsApp and using the online contact form found on the website. “As we continue with our diligent efforts to navigate the new travel landscape following the pandemic, it is important for us to remain connected with the hard-working travel agent community and provide them with a superior program that will enable them to excel and reach their sales goals,”
“We also want to express how grateful we are for the trust agents have in the Bahia Principe experience and we are positive they will value the new perks with Bahia Principe Rewards.” said Helen Montijano, Bahia Principe’s VP of Marketing and Sales for the U.S. and Canada. She adds: “We also want to express how grateful we are for the trust agents have in the Bahia Principe experience and we are positive they will value the new perks we have prepared for them as part of Bahia Principe Rewards.”
Save the dates: Saint Lucia has more free webinars this month TORONTO — Building on the success of its last online series earlier this summer, the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority has announced that its free educational webinars for travel agents will continue throughout July. Each hour-long episode will be hosted live by the Tourism Authority and provide an insider’s guide to Saint Lucia’s top offerings. Market representatives will be on hand to answer questions and virtually transport agents to Saint Lucia to learn about the latest COVID-19 travel protocols, mustdo experiences and other differentiating aspects of the destination. One-time registration provides access to the full series. Remaining shows in the program will broadcast live from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. EDT on the following dates: . July 20 – Culinary Delights & Dining: Check out the food scene at local eateries, learn about local specialties and chat with the National Culinary Team leader . July 27 – Dive into Saint Lucia: Get the inside scoop from dive masters about scuba diving and other offerings below the sea Saint Lucia Tourism Authority’s last virtual series saw over 12,000 views across six continents, with over 20 experiences, resorts and local attractions presenting.
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