Travelweek - May 27th, 2021

Canada’s Travel Trade News May 27, 2021 travelweek.ca

Future of Travel 'Sunnier Days Ahead' for Canada's travel industry pg. 3

Alaska sailings resume from Seattle

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Air Canada adds nonstop flights to Hawaii Uniworld to resume cruises in June

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HERE C O ME S

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Early bird perks and extra flexibility when travellers book between April 8 and May 31, 2021: • Reduced deposit of only $100 • Price Drop Guarantee2 • Flexibility to: Change travel dates, destination and/or hotel 3 at no charge up to seven days before departure or Cancel the trip at4 no charge up to 25 days before departure • Final payment due 25 days before departure5 For travel between September 1, 2021, and April 30, 2022.

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That’s 5x Bonbon on all South packages Here Comes the Sun Promo is valid on new individual bookings made between April 8 and May 31, 2021, for a minimum of seven nights, for travel between September 1, 2021, and April 30, 2022. Offer does not apply to groups, flights, guided tours or à la carte accommodations. This promotion may change without notice and is subject to availability at the time of booking. 1The starting rate of $899 per person applies to packages to Bahia Principe Grand Coba in Riviera Maya, Superior Junior Suite, for the following departure dates from Toronto: November 1, 3, 10 and 22, as well as December 5 and 8, 2021. It also applies to packages to VIK Hotel Arena Blanca in Punta Cana, in Superior Room Garden View, for the following departure dates from Montreal: January 5, 6, 10 and 11, 2022. 2The Price Drop Guarantee does not apply to groups, flights, Florida packages, Duo packages, guided tours or à la carte accommodations. It also excludes Transat 48-hour sales, deals of the day, SPC rooms and promotional room upgrades. Should the package become available at a lower price, clients may receive a refund of up to $400 per adult/$200 per child, minus a $25 per person administration fee. The Price Drop Guarantee may be discontinued or modified at any time without notice. 3Clients can change their travel dates, destination and/or hotel at no charge up to seven days before departure. This offer does not apply to packages to Sandals Resorts, Beaches Resorts, Marival Distinct Luxury Residences, Velas Resorts, Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts or Couples Resorts Jamaica. 4Clients can cancel their trip at no charge up to 25 days before departure and receive a refund for the amount paid, including the deposit. The refund will be made in the method of payment on file. For packages to Sandals Resorts, Beaches Resorts, Marival Distinct Luxury Residences, Velas Resorts, Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts and Couples Resorts Jamaica, cancellation is allowed up to 45 days before departure. 5Final payment is due 25 days before departure, except for packages to Sandals Resorts, Beaches Resorts, Marival Distinct Luxury Residences, Velas Resorts, Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts and Couples Resorts Jamaica, for which final payment is due 45 days before departure. 6Applies to new bookings made between April 8 and May 31, 2021. Bonbon rewards will be added to files upon travellers’ departure. This promotion may change without notice.

TOP NEWS

by Cindy Sosroutomo TORONTO — After more than a year of travel restrictions and border closures, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc on global travel and tourism. But as the all-important summer season approaches, there are definite signs of recovery – namely the return of cruising, the gradual reopening of Europe and strong forward bookings for 2022 – that’s sparking plenty of hope for the Canadian travel industry, as discussed during Travelweek’s most recent ‘Future of Travel’ virtual conference.

Taking place May 19 as a webcast and on Facebook, ‘Future of Travel: Sunnier Days Ahead,’ the fourth instalment in the hugely successful conference series, rallied the industry together with thousands of travel agents tuning in and esteemed keynote speakers encouraging them to stay hopeful and stay connected. Prizes, including a $500 Visa gift card, were also given away during the two-hour broadcast.

“There’s no question that our beloved industry has been through a lot these past 15 months, with everyone in the travel ecosystem seeing unprecedented challenges,” said Travelweek publisher Devin Kinasz. “But with case numbers declining in many parts of the world and more than half of Canadians having already received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine, there’s finally light at the end of the tunnel. Now the focus has shifted to how we navigate out of the crisis, stronger and more united than ever. We thank all our keynote speakers for sharing their insights and valuable tips that travel agents can use to stay inspired and re-grow their business.”

REFUNDS & TAKEOVERS Transat and Air Canada Vacations, which announced in recent weeks that they will be providing refunds to eligible customers (by Aug. 26 and June 12, respectively) and protecting travel agent commissions, both reported that the refund process has been going well.

“We really mobilized and provided agents with as much information upfront as we could as well as some pretty slick self-serve tools whereby they can proceed with refund requests,”

Kathryn Folliott, Travelweek's Editor, and Nino Montagnese, Air Canada Vacations' Vice President

said Joseph Adamo, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer at Transat and President of Transat Distribution Canada. “As expected we have a very high opt-in rate from full-service agents. No surprise, they’re on the ball and doing right by their customers.”

Nino Montagnese, Vice President, Air Canada Vacations, said that approximately 40% of customers have already requested refunds, with the rest choosing to sit on their future travel credits.

“We’ve all been stuck at home, not able to travel and we’re just waiting to get away,” he said. “There’s a big opportunity for our trade partners to hang onto bookings. As soon as we can travel, we definitely will and I’m sure that our trade partners will win from that.”

As for the Air Canada-Transat takeover deal that fell through in April, Adamo confirmed that Transat will be “fine” and, thanks to federal assistance and monies it already had, the airline is well positioned to fund its recovery.

“Does this mean there may not be interested parties still looking to purchase us? No, it doesn’t but our viability, our future is not dependent on the company being privatized or purchased by anyone else and that’s really excellent news because it gives us degrees of freedom to operate,” said Adamo.

FORWARD BOOKINGS & RECOVERY Zeina Gedeon, CEO, TPI is highly encouraged by forward bookings for fall and early winter, reporting that the company is seeing 3x what it normally would do.

“We’ve always been about independent travel and do a lot of groups and

weddings but this is way surpassing that,” she said. “What we’re finding so interesting is the fact that customers are upselling. I have never seen this number of around-the-world cruises being booked. I used to see maybe one a year, now we book 3-5 a week.”

For summer 2021, with international travel restrictions still largely in place, Gedeon is anticipating a good season for domestic travel. Canada, she added, is the one destination that TPI kept booking throughout the pandemic, launching a Canada-specific portal early on for its advisors “to give them something to sell when the whole world was shut down.”

Elaine Carnegie, president of Canlink Travel Representatives, which represents some of the Caribbean’s most luxurious hotels and resorts, also reported “really good” forward bookings, with some properties already full for summer and fall. While the majority of bookings are being made by U.S. clients, “Canadians are definitely booking for later in the year and for 2022 and into 2023,” said Carnegie.

When asked whether luxury hotels will recover quicker than other types of accommodations, she said “for sure, as people are now looking for privacy, safety and an amazing experience all in one.

“Although our room counts and suite numbers are on the smaller side, the space that guests are experiencing in these properties are really large,” she said. “Guests are really excited to book something in any luxury hotel that has a lot of space, where they can feel really safe. For that reason we are bouncing back very quickly.”

May 27, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 3

On the cover, clockwise from top left: Joseph Adamo; Marsha Walden; Nino Montagnese; Elaine Carnegie; Chris Thompson; Brad Ford; Minister Gustavo Segura.

Building back together: Travelweek’s virtual conference focuses on sunnier days ahead

TOP NEWS

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

“If you think about the world’s bigJoseph Adamo gest cities and how very densified and Chief Sales & Marketing Officer (Transat) President urban they are, Canada’s cities are (Transat Distribution Canada) really constructed around the natural Marsha Walden Chief Executive Officer, comparable to the kinds landscape, Destination Canada of places you would see in New Zealand or Australia,” she said. “Being on Nino Montagnese President, a Vice canal and going down a river in the Air Canada Vacations middle of a city is a remarkable opporA VIRTUAL Gustavohere Segurain Canada.” tunity Minister of Tourism, CONFERENCE Costa Rica Another destination known for its

BY TRAVELWEEK bounty of natural offerings is Costa Join travel agents and industry executives Brad Ford Rica, year-round destination that nationwide as they discuss key travel trends President, a Insight Vacations & TRENDS TO WATCH at the start of the all-important summer Minister of Tourism Gustavo Segura Luxury Gold season, given the ongoing pandemic.

Destination Canada has been saying confirmed is open to tourists. Currently, Chris Thompson itVIRTUAL all along throughout the pandemic, visitors Chief Executive Officer, EVENT are not required to present a Brand USA that tourism will be critical to negative COVID-19 test or quarantine MAYdomestic 19TH 1-3PM EST the recovery of Canada’s travel industry. upon Elaine Carnegie arrival; they simply need to comPlus updates from WestJet, WestJet Vacations, Globus President, family of brands, Bahia Principe, Royal Caribbean, Marsha Walden, CEO of Destination plete an electronic health form and Canlink Travel Railbookers Amtrak Vacations, Grenada, Disney Parks, Representatives Myrtle Beach, Barbados and more.

Canada, said that if Canadians take show proof of travel insurance.

Zeina Gedeon And special sponsorship Carlisle would Bay, two-thirds ofby Hermitage whatBay, they normally On Costa Rica being naturally suited Chief Executive Officer, Jamaica Inn, Round Hill Hotel & Villas, Tryall Club, Anse Chastanet, Jade Mountain, Spice Island Beach Resort, spend on their annual vacation budget toTPIsafety and social distancing, Segura Ocean Hotels Barbados in Canada this year, it would lead to the said: “Many of our experiences and creation of 150,000 jobs. accommodations are found in nature where there is fresh air, like hiking, ziplining and wildlife sighting. We “We appreciate your have 30 national parks and 130 Blue Flag-certified beaches, plus 26% of our support and partnership territories is under some form of proPrizes, Prizes Hosted by Devin Kinasz Publisher, Travelweekyou have and more Prizes!

REGISTERtection. and know that When GRAND PRIZE $500you come to Costa Rica, Avid globetrotter NOW VISA GIFT CARD and trained economist our biodiversity helps you go beyond done everything beyond nature and truly reconnect with yourand above to give confidence self and what is most essential in life.”

FUTURE OF TRAVEL: SUNNIER DAYS AHEAD

to all of your guests.”

With Canada’s borders not anticipated to open prior to the fall, travel within Canada is expected to see a major uptick this summer, added Walden.

Destination Canada’s global in-market representatives recently identified several key themes that have emerged since the start of the pandemic. Among those were green, wide open spaces, which led to an “enormous” interest in camping and hiking last summer, said Walden, as well as city escapes that combine outdoor adventure.

Got a story idea? Questions or comments? Write to us at editorial@travelweek.ca

TRAVELWEEK

A MESSAGE FOR TRAVEL AGENTS Brad Ford, President of Insight Vacations and Luxury Gold, both of which are part of The Travel Corporation and sold through the travel trade, called travel advisors the “lifeblood of our

Zeina Gedeon, CEO, TPI

130 Queens Quay East, Suite 512, Toronto, Ontario M5A 0P6 Tel: 416.365.1500 Fax: 416.365.1504 Toll-free: 1.855.392.8820 Web: www.travelweek.ca

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Brad Ford, President, Insight Vacations & Luxury Gold

organization. After noting that the brands have already resumed operations, starting first in Egypt and Australia, and that he’s “cautiously optimistic” about Europe this summer, Ford said the company and all its brands will be relying heavily on the agent community to “secure our future travels for 2022 and 2023.”

“We extend our sincere thanks to you and we appreciate so much your support and partnership, and more than that we know that you have done everything beyond and above to give confidence to all of your guests and travellers,” said Ford. “So we say thank you and we continue to rebuild our business with you and to support you in any way that we can.”

Also lending its support to agents is Brand USA, which will be hosting a USA Training Day on June 24 for the travel trade. Featuring “all the tools and information agents will need” to effectively sell the United States to their clients, the event will be crucial in helping agents become a valuable resource so that they, in turn, can build consumer confidence.

“There will not be a better source for building confidence than the travel trade – our tour operators, wholesalers and travel agents who facilitate travel to the United States,” said Thompson.

“As we begin welcoming our friends to the north back, there will be a lot of questions that weren’t questions in the past that have to do with travel policy.

The relevance that the travel trade has with their clients is going to play a critical role in our ability to be able to welcome people back.”

CONTENTS COPYRIGHTED We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada.

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4 | TRAVELWEEK | May 27, 2021

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FUTURE OF TRAVEL

Porto, Portugal

Book early for benefits, says Air Canada Vacations MONTREAL — Air Canada Vacations is encouraging travellers to take advantage of exclusive offers by booking early.

Those who book now for travel in late 2021 or 2022 will benefit from exclusive offers, including free combined CareFlexPlus and CarFree protection.

With free seat selection, year-round Price Drop Guarantee, StormGuard and a $50 waiver on administration change fees, these plans allow travellers to transfer their package, change their departure date, destination or hotel up to seven days prior to departure, or cancel with a full refund up until 25 days prior to departure.

Plus, travellers can take advantage of a reduced deposit of $50 per person and savings of up to $400 per family ($100 per adult and $100 per child) when booking their 2021/2022 holiday with a travel agent.

ACV’s Early Booking Bonuses are now valid for departure dates between Sept. 1, 2021 and April 30, 2022, for bookings made by June 30, 2021 to se-

lect destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America.

“As we prepare for a tomorrow made of vacations, we’re encouraging customers to book early to take advantage of our exclusive offers and ensure that they’re able to secure the getaway they’ve been dreaming of,” said Nino Montagnese, Vice President of Air Canada Vacations. “Air Canada Vacations provides more flexibility, travel protection and enhanced health and safety measures that give travellers the peace of mind they need to plan their long-awaited escape with confidence.”

To add further peace of mind, ACV is also including COVID-19 travel coverage with flight and hotel-inclusive packages to international destinations.

The COVID-19 Coverage & Assistance Plan, administered by Allianz Global Assistance, is included at no additional cost.

Looking ahead to its return to Europe, ACV also recently unveiled its new immersive digital platform, Dream of Europe, featuring its 2021-2022 Eu-

Praia do Camilo, Portugal

rope Collection. The new collection includes over 40,000 hotels and a total of 75 tour packages in eight countries, plus 18 new carefully-designed itineraries.

While navigating through the platform, users will find images and video and editorial content, including destination highlights and user-generated travel tips, to help plan their European vacations. Travel agents can guide their customers to bucket-list destinations by sharing links of each tour package, allowing them to easily review ACV’s new Europe portfolio. To view the ‘Dream of Europe’ platform and share with clients go to agents.dreamofeurope. aircanadavacations.com.

For more information and full terms and conditions go to vacations.aircanada. com.

May 27, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 9

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FUTURE OF TRAVEL

Sandals Royal Barbados

The many reasons to book Canlink’s luxury hotels TORONTO — Canlink Travel Representatives is no stranger to luxury – it represents some of the world’s most ultra-luxe hotels in highly desirable destinations across the Caribbean.

With most of its properties welcoming back guests following temporary closures due to the global pandemic, Canlink is now reminding travel agents of all the reasons to book a luxury stay.

CARLISLE BAY, ANTIGUA Located on the southern shore of Antigua, the five-star Carlisle Bay is perfectly suited to seclusion and relaxation. It offers all-suite accommodation with separate family areas, a diverse range of restaurants and bars (many opening onto the beach), the Blue Spa, tennis courts, a water sports centre, library, yoga pavilion and a movie screening room.

HERMITAGE BAY, ANTIGUA Named among the best resorts in the Caribbean, the five-star Hermitage Bay boasts a collection of 30 Hillside, Beachfront and Seaview Garden Suites, not to mention the Garden Spa where guests can enjoy nourishing treatments, pilates and yoga overlooking the ocean. Menus change daily and always combine local favourites with classic American and modern European fare.

O2 BEACH CLUB & SPA, BARBADOS This new all-inclusive, boutique resort will make its debut in Barbados this September with 130 rooms and suites divided into three collections, six dining options, a full-service spa, whirlpool tubs, a 24-hour gym and the 8th Floor Roof Deck Terrace.

SEA BREEZE BEACH HOUSE, BARBADOS This intimate, all-inclusive luxury resort is set on 2.5 acres of lush gardens along Barbados’ Caribbean shore. Considered a ‘foodie paradise,’ Sea Breeze boasts unique restaurants in six different settings, from buffets and à la carte choices, to a Chef’s Table and custom private dining. Guests can also embark on guided hikes, deep sea fishing excursions and tours to local historic sites.

SOUTH BEACH HOTEL, BARBADOS The all-suite South Beach Hotel truly impresses with wonderful touches like breakfast in bed, local Caribbean fare at the South Beach Restaurant, and the pristine sands of Accra and Rockley Beach. Its central location allows guests to enjoy a multitude of adventures and local attractions nearby.

SPICE ISLAND BEACH RESORT, GRENADA This eight-acre, 64-suite property is a year-round, fully-inclusive resort with a AAA Five-Diamond Rating. Situated on world-famous Grand Anse Beach, it’s considered one of the most upscale properties in the Caribbean, with ultra-chic accommodations, gourmet cuisine, ‘green’ policies and seven suite types, many featuring private plunge pools and private full-size pools.

JAMAICA INN, JAMAICA Since 1950 Jamaica Inn has ranked among the Caribbean’s top luxury hotels. Located in Ocho Rios on one of Jamaica’s premier private beaches, it boasts intimate suites and cottages, an open-air restaurant, and the Ocean Spa at Jamaica Inn, nestled within the cliffs of Cutlass Bay.

ROUND HILL RESORT AND VILLAS, JAMAICA This 110-acre private enclave comprises luxury villas, boutique oceanfront rooms, award-winning seaside dining and an exquisite spa. Highlights include locally-grown, organic cuisine, a luxury spa, an outdoor yoga pavilion and a Kids Club.

THE TRYALL CLUB, JAMAICA Situated amongst 2,200 acres of natural beauty, The Tryall Club offers a unique portfolio of 87 villas ranging from condominiums for couples, to oceanfront beach houses and 10-bedroom villas. The property also boasts two restaurants, a recently renovated golf course and one of the best tennis facilities in the Caribbean.

ANSE CHASTANET, ST. LUCIA Anse Chastanet offers a variety of room categories among its 49 individually designed rooms, 37 of which are scattered about a lush hillside, 12 within a tropical garden. Guests can partake in a bounty of activities including yoga, snorkelling, scuba diving, tennis, sunset sailing, sea kayaking, jungle biking and bird watching.

JADE MOUNTAIN, ST. LUCIA Rising majestically above Anse Chastanet is Jade Mountain, known for its bold architectural design and individual bridges leading to infinity pool sanctuaries, all of which boast views of the Pitons and the Caribbean Sea. Guests enjoy the private setting of Jade Mountain with all of Anse Chastanet’s restaurants, bars, boutiques, art gallery, spa, and watersports facilities.

May 27, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 11

LIFE’S ESSENTIALS FOUND HERE.

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FUTURE OF TRAVEL Tenorio Waterfall, Costa Rica

Costa Rica aims to decarbonize by 2050 SAN JOSE — Costa Rica, known the world over for being an eco-friendly destination, continues to work towards operating as an emission-free economy by 2050.

The National Decarbonization Plan, announced by President Carlos Alvarado Quesada in February 2019, outlines a roadmap between Costa Rica’s 2018 and 2050 goals through 10 stages that focus on mobility and transportation, the national electrical grid, the agrifood system, the protection of biodiversity and more.

Earlier this year on the plan’s second anniversary, President Quesada said that 90.7% of Costa Rica’s 2022 targets are underway, while 25% of the initial ‘foundations’ stage objectives have already been met, despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

MOBILITY & TRANSPORTATION Costa Rica’s 2022 mobility and transportation goals include zero emissions from buses and taxis as well as an electric passenger rail system, which will become the population’s primary

transportation method. Currently, a pilot study is underway for a digital fare payment system to be used on public transport, the Electric Passenger Train plan has been tendered, and electric bus use is being tested in key locations.

THE NATIONAL GRID Costa Rica had set out to achieve an electrical grid operating 100% on renewable energy by 2030, which was met ahead of time – by an entire decade – in 2020. The destination is aiming for electric power to be the main source of energy for the transportation, residential, commercial and industrial sectors, among others, by 2050. To date, 20 of the largest electricity consumers in Costa Rica have reduced their consumption by 25% and an energy efficiency law is in development.

AGRICULTURE & FOOD Agricultural plans have been designed and implemented to reduce emissions, and in 2022 there will be additional low-emissions farming and harvesting methods implemented for banana, rice and sugar cane producers.

For the livestock industry, 860 cattle farms have implemented technologies in alignment with the national framework, 25 dairy farms have biodigester systems in place, and 325 new farms have applied methodologies that met 63% of the goal set for 2022.

BIODIVERSITY By 2050 Costa Rica’s goal aims to increase forest cover by 60% and to reverse the degradation process of marine and terrestrial ecosystems.

Thus far, the goal of restoring at least three kilometres of Urban Corridors has been surpassed. A ‘Clean Rivers’ strategy was also developers in early 2021 to manage the recovery or urban rivers.

May 27, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 13

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GETAWAYS WORTH THE WAIT

This isn’t vacation days spent. This is bragging rights earned. Conquer the tallest waterslide in North America and snap a shot from 400 feet up in a helium balloon. Grab a drink at the swim-up bar and soak up the scene in the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas. Or get a taste of Bora Bora with your own floating cabana. Get ready for gallons of adventure in the heart of the island, Thrill Waterpark — home to North America’s tallest waterslide, Daredevil’s Peak, a 135-foot plunge. And that’s just one of 13 slides across two towers. At Daredevil’s Tower, you can race a friend down the twin Dueling Demons with an addictively frightful drop. Plummet down the near-vertical Screeching Serpent. And if you dare, brave the coils of the twisting, turning Green Mamba slide. This is Perfect Day at CocoCay — only on Royal Caribbean ® .

Contact us to book your Per fect Day at CocoCay adventure today.

All features are subject to change without notice. Images and messaging for Perfect Day at CocoCay may include artistic renderings. Perfect Day and CocoCay are registered trademarks of Royal Caribbean. © 2021 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships’ registry: The Bahamas.

Royal Caribbean’s ‘Perfect Day Island Collection’ offers laidback luxury TORONTO — Royal Caribbean has upped the ante on what it means to ‘thrill and chill’ while on vacation with its newly announced ‘Perfect Day Island Collection,’ a series of private island destinations around the world.

The first in the collection, Perfect Day at CocoCay, The Bahamas, which opened in May 2019 after a US$200 million transformation, will boast a number of first-time experiences that range from racing down the tallest waterslide in North America, to soaring 450 feet in the air in a helium balloon.

Here are some highlights of Perfect Day at CocoCay: • Dining: Captain Jack’s, the island’s main hangout and meet-up spot, is where guests can grab a drink at the rowboat bar or chow down on crispy steak fries, the house specialty. There’s also Skipper’s Grill for favourites like burgers, sandwiches, tacos and salads.

• Thrill Waterpark: The heart of the island, Thrill Waterpark boasts 13 slides, the most found in any waterpark in the Caribbean, as well as the Caribbean’s largest wave pool and a kid-friendly obstacle course pool.

• Up, Up and Away: This colourful helium balloon takes guests up to 450 feet above the island, allowing them to take in the views from the highest vantage point in The Bahamas.

• Chill Island: The ultimate beach escape, Chill Island is where to go for wave runner excursions, boat tours, snorkelling and relaxing in cabanas and daybeds.

• South Beach: Here sun-seekers can enjoy volleyball, beachside basketball, soccer, paddle boarding, glass-bottom kayaking and zorbing.

• Coco Beach Club: Touting a new level of laidback luxury, Coco Beach Club is home to the first overwater cabanas in The Bahamas, each with an overwater hammock, waterslide and private attendant. There’s also a freshwater infinity pool and bar that spans over 2,600 feet, beachside cabanas and daybeds and The Grille at

Floating Cabanas

Coco Beach Club.

More Perfect Day Island Collection destinations in Asia, Australia and the Caribbean will be announced at a later date.

May 27, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 15

Credit: Royal Caribbean

Per fect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

FUTURE OF TRAVEL

At Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts, we are committed to offering our guests the best all-inclusive vacations at the most beautiful destinations, in a safe and healthy environment.

We invite families, couples, friends and solo travelers alike to stay with us and experience true happiness.

Dominican Republic Jamaica - Mexico - Spain

PUNTA CANA — Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts is still in celebration mode after reopening its popular Bahia Principe Grand Punta Cana in February.

The seaside property is the third brand property to reopen in Punta Cana, with two other properties including the family-favourite Bahia Principe Fantasia Punta Cana and the adults-only Bahia Principe Luxury Ambar.

“At Bahia Principe, we take pride in always offering our loyal customers a variety of options to choose from that better matches their wants and needs, and so we are pleased to once again be able to offer this resort to them,” said Lluisa Salord, SVP Global Sales, Contracting & Distribution. “We remain committed to reactivating tourism and helping the local community in Punta Cana, especially past employees that had been part of the Bahia Principe family for years.”

Bahia Principe Grand Punta Cana offers 756 rooms, two pools, six restaurants, four bars, a disco, children’s water park, the Bahia Spa and more.

As part of the brand’s Grand category, guests can enjoy unlimited Wi-Fi, one 16 | TRAVELWEEK | May 27, 2021

Credit: Bahia Principe

Bahia Principe Grand Punta Cana reopens

hour per day of complimentary kayaking or paddling, as well as a number of entertainment options suitable for guests of all ages. In addition to on-site offerings, guests have access to the brand’s on-site Las Olas Beach House, opened in late 2019 and boasting several restaurants overlooking the beach.

To reassure guests, Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts has implemented rigorous safety and hygiene measures in place at all its resorts, developed in collaboration with HS Consulting, in-

ternational consultants that specialize in the tourism industry. These include enhanced cleaning and disinfection, continuous training, health checks, digitalization and more. Additionally, for guests who require COVID-19 testing for their return flights, the company is able to facilitate testing on site through partnerships with local laboratories and clinics. Guests should contact the front desk at each resort upon arrival to schedule testing prior to their departure.

More choice and flexibility with ‘Choice Touring by Globus’ TORONTO — For travellers ready for a ‘you’ way to tour, Globus’ new touring style promises all the fun of exploring new destinations with the added bonus of flexibility.

Called ‘Choice Touring by Globus,’ the touring style features 13 new itineraries in Europe and North America that include ‘YourChoice Excursions’, a selection of curated experiences in offthe-beaten-path destinations included in the package price. The average Choice Touring itinerary features three YourChoice destinations with eight excursion options.

“We understand that one size does not always fit all on vacation. With this new touring style and YourChoice Excursions, travellers can now spend their days, their way in dozens of destinations across Europe and North America,” said Chris Jones, marketing director for Globus family of brands.

New Choice Touring by Globus itin-

Trek

Scotland Inverness Bike Tour

eraries launching later this year and into 2022 include: EUROPE • Hot Tam! Scotland By Design (9 days, Edinburgh-Glasgow) • Green with Envy: Ireland by Design (8 days, Dublin-Limerick) • Oh My Goddess!: Greece by Design (8 days) • The Alps Out Loud: Switzerland & Lake Como by Design (8 days, ZurichComo) • Veni, Vidi, Vici: Umbria & Tuscany By Design (8 days) • Rocks & Rhythm: Portugal By Design (8 days) • Toasting & Coasting: Portugal & Spain

by Design (9 days)

Soar

Credit: Globus

FUTURE OF TRAVEL

NORTH AMERICA • From The Top: Western Canada By Design (8 days) • Mad About Mounties: Eastern Canada

By Design (7 days, Toronto-Montreal) • Boogie & Blues: The Southern U.S. By Design (8 days, New Orleans-Nashville) • California Dreamin’: Northern California By Design (9 days) • Sunny Days, Starry Nights: America’s Rocky Mountains By Design (8 days) • The Bold & The Brewtiful: Mid-Atlantic America BY Design (9 days) Travellers who book a Choice Touring vacation early can save up to 10%. For more information go to agentlingo.ca.

Move

Taste

Your days, your way.

Love to tour but fancy a bit more freedom? Choice Touring by Globus presents a selection of curated experiences in key and off-the-beaten-path destinations—included in the package price— so you can tailor your tour to your own interests, pleasures and passions. Truffle hunting? Kayaking? Play a round of golf?

How you roll is up to you. No set-in-stone itineraries. No added expenditures. Just a wide-ranging menu of included excursions for you to design your own discovery, pick how you play and make your own memories.

CHOICE TOURING BY

SAVE 10% on select 2022 Globus Europe & North America vacations*

AGENTLINGO.CA | RESERVATIONS: 800.268.1639 | INSIDE SALES: 888.268.1928 | CANADIANGROUPS@GLOBUSFAMILY.CA *For full terms & conditions, please visit Agentlingo.ca. | 3280 Bloor St. W, Centre Tower, Suite 400, Toronto, ON M8X 2X3, TICO#1893755/50015835

May 27, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 17

FUTURE OF TRAVEL

New! Disney Wish Now open for bookings.

Sailing summer 2022.

Visit disneytravelagents.ca for more information.

Ships’ Registry: The Bahamas

Books open for Disney Wish on May 27 CELEBRATION, FL — Disney Cruise Line is counting down the days until the launch of Disney Wish, scheduled to set sail in summer 2022.

The ship will sail its maiden voyage – a five-night cruise to Nassau and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay – on June 9, 2022, followed by an inaugural season of three- and four-night cruises to the same destinations from Port Canaveral, Florida.

Bookings open to the general public on May 27, 2021.

The ‘motif of enchantment’ on the ship will manifest in various ways, from the magical forest setting of the Walt Disney Theatre, to storybook-inspired staterooms and the fairytale castle-inspired Grand Hall.

Disney Wish will also boast the first-ever Disney attraction at sea, AquaMouse, a 760-foot-long water ride complete with show scenes, lighting, special effects and winding tubes situated above the upper decks. In addition to AquaMouse, the area will feature six pools spaciously staggered among tiered decks. Little ones will also delight in an all-new Toy Story-themed water wonderland complete with a splash zone, wading pool, family waterslide and a smoothie bar.

Three brand new family dining concepts will make their debuts on the Disney Wish, including Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure featuring Nordic-inspired cuisine; Worlds of Marvel, the first-ever Marvel cinematic dining adventure where guests play an interactive role in an Avengers mission that unfolds around them; and 1923, named for the year The Walt Disney 18 | TRAVELWEEK | May 27, 2021

©Disney

Company was founded.

Other top-selling amenities include: Luna, a brand new entertainment hub that transitions from a daytime setting for families into an adult-exclusive evening venue; Hero Zone, a futuristic

The ship will sail its maiden voyage – a fivenight cruise to Nassau and Castaway Cay – on June 9, 2022, followed by an inaugural season of threeand four-night cruises to the same destinations from Port Canaveral

sports arena featuring game showstyle competitions; the Walt Disney Theatre for original Broadway-style stage productions; the Wonderland and Never Land Cinemas, intimate screening rooms for movie watching; and the Senses Spa, home to private treatment rooms, lavish spa villas, and steam and aromatherapy rooms.

Plus, for the first time on a Disney ship, guests will embark on a tour of the Star Wars galaxy at Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge, a high-end bar styled as a luxurious yacht-class spaceship.

The Disney Wish is the first of three new Disney Cruise Line ships to be built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany through 2025. All three ships will be powered by liquefied natural gas.

Experience luxury at leisure with Railbookers Canada TORONTO — Railbookers is inviting Canadians to “take back travel” and indulge in some of the world’s most luxurious rail journeys.

From glamourous rail trips onboard the opulent carriages of the Venice Simplon-Orient Express, to an Excellence Class experience onboard the Glacier Express in Switzerland, Railbookers offers top-notch service at every turn, no matter the destination.

“You can expect incredible accommodations, fine dining and exemplary service,” says the company. “Let us help you plan your unforgettable experience on one of the most famous trains in the world.”

Featured luxury trips around the world include: ‘Belmond Royal Scotsman Scotland’s Classic Splendours’; ‘The Bernina Express and Venice Simplon-Orient Express to Venice’; and the ‘Golden Eagle Danube Express Central European Classics from Berlin.’

Canadians can save on their 2021 and 2022 rail adventure with limited-time offers and early booking discounts.

FUTURE OF TRAVEL

“When you’re ready, we’re ready”: Myrtle Beach awaits with new attractions MYRTLE BEACH — Visit Myrtle Beach is encouraging visitors to get outside and explore – safely and responsibly – this summer and beyond through a new brand and marketing campaign.

Now known as ‘The Beach,’ the destination’s new brand will be featured front and centre in the new ‘You Belong At The Beach’ campaign, which will include television spots, social media, co-branded partnerships and more.

The previous branding for Visit Myrtle Beach was used for more than 10 years and is credited for supporting significant industry growth for the region.

“When you’re ready, we’re ready to welcome Canadians back with open arms and the Southern hospitality that we’re known for,” says Visit Myrtle Beach. “We invite our friends to enjoy the great outdoors and our bounty of soft adventure activities, all with health and safety protocols in place. And with fall and winter deals to look forward to, now is a great time to start planning your getaway to Myrtle Beach.”

In addition to 60 miles of wide-open beaches throughout the Grand Strand, visitors can check out lesser-known spots to plant their feet in the sand, including the four-mile-long Pawleys Island, the quaint Litchfield Beach with just two resorts, and the unspoiled Huntington Beach State Park and Myrtle Beach State Park.

For those looking for fun beyond the beach, Myrtle Beach is home to an ever-growing list of must-do activities and attractions, including the new Cul-

tural Arts Center. Located in what is now three properties in the downtown area, the space will include a 300-seat theatre, art gallery, reception area, dressing rooms and rehearsal space and will be used for performing arts classes and up to 30 productions each year. Construction is expected to begin this year with a grand opening in spring 2022.

The Myrtle Beach Mall is proceeding with its US$150 million redevelopment for a new retail and restaurant spaced called ‘The District.’ Plans are currently underway for new waterfront restaurants, sports bars, additional shopping areas, clubs and a boutique hotel.

South Carolina’s first man-made surf park, American Surf Park, will begin construction this year. Upon completion, it will boast a surfing lagoon that

will generate up to 1,000 waves per hour, plus an amphitheatre that will accommodate up to 15,000 people.

Having just opened in spring 2021, the brand new Funplex Myrtle Beach is a new tropical themed park that includes seven rides, a walk-up bar and restaurant, and the ‘Mach Fun,’ the tallest jet simulator ride on the market and the first of its kind in North America.

SkyWheel Myrtle Beach has also gotten a facelift this past spring to celebrate its 10th birthday. It now boasts a new wheel structure, refurbished interiors and exteriors of its 42 gondolas and, most notably, a new state-of-theart lighting system that allows for more dynamic light shows.

As for new hotels, a new dual-branded offering by Marriott is coming to

to plan your visti go to VisitMyrtleBEach.com

Plan your vacation at VisitMyrtleBeach.ca

May 27, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 19

FUTURE OF TRAVEL

Safety above all.

We’re committed to safely connecting your clients to the people and places they’ve missed.

Westjet.com/SafetyAboveAll

Myrtle Beach’s Ocean Boulevard in spring 2022. Springhill Suites and Courtyard by Marriott will stand 26 stories tall and include rooftop amenities, a ground-level pool and a lazy river. Also new is the Four Points by Sheraton, which opened in December 2020 along the picturesque Intracoastal Waterway with on-site food options, productive workspaces, a pool and more. And the 387-room Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort on the Grand Strand has been transformed after a $20 million renovation, in addition to Embassy Suites Myrtle Beach Oceanfront Resort, which will complete its own $30 million renovation in early 2022.

WestJet, YVR release results of rapid antigen testing study VANCOUVER — The Vancouver Airport Authority and WestJet have released study findings showing that rapid antigen testing is an effective, acceptable and cost-efficient method for screening travellers and contributes to safer and healthier air travel.

The findings were proven through the YVR-WestJet COVID-19 Testing Study, a research project led by the University of British Columbia (UBC) and Providence Health Care (Providence) alongside project sponsors, WestJet and the Vancouver Airport Authority.

Over a four-month period, from November 2020 through February 2021, nearly 600 departing passengers at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) were tested for COVID-19 using rapid antigen testing. All tests administered 20 | TRAVELWEEK | May 27, 2021

during this period were negative, leading researchers to conclude that transmissible infection in airline passengers departing from YVR is likely to be extremely low (less than 1%). Methodology and study findings could contribute to a future testing framework for the broader travel industry.

Researchers from UBC and Providence were responsible for collecting samples in a ready-made testing station. Results gathered were further validated through PCR testing in a lab environment.

Participant feedback was “resoundingly positive,” say the project partners, with many saying the procedure was efficient, more comfortable than expected and instilled confidence about the safety of their travels. The research team found the test itself took approximately 15 to 20 minutes, resulting in

minimal disruption to the overall travel experience.

“While the vaccine continues to rollout, testing adds an additional and scientifically-sound layer to our already rigorous health and hygiene measures and can help restore confidence in not only travel, but in activities across all parts of our communities,” said Billy Nolen, Vice-President Health, Safety and Quality Assurance, WestJet. The study, located at WestJet’s domestic check-in area at YVR, was open to WestJet guests who are residents of B.C, between the ages of 19 and 80, and who had not tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 90 days. Guests had to be flying domestically and testing was available on the day of travel only.

FUTURE OF TRAVEL

Grenada debuts new hotels, experiences and ‘Grenada Rocks’ campaign GRENADA — Grenada, the ‘Spice of the Caribbean’ and still considered a hidden gem with unspoiled beauty, 40 white sand beaches and 15 breathtaking waterfalls, has a number of highly anticipated hotels that have either just opened or will be opening their doors in the coming months.

The Pointe at Petite Calivigny, which started welcoming guests in October 2020, is a private residence club that includes three villas, 12 condominiums, two large community pools, a gym and a spa.

Opening in late 2021 is Kawana Bay, Grand Anse Beach, the island’s newest hotel and second Kimpton property in the region featuring 163 keys across villas, suites and studios.

Developments are ongoing for several other projects, including the Six Senses at La Sagesse, St. David, Hartman Resort Grenada, St. George and Levera Nature and Beach Resort, St. Patrick.

While the destination and majority of hotels are currently open, others reopening later this year include the Royalton Grenada (June) and Spice Island Beach Resort (November).

Port of Grenada

A bounty of new experiences and services has also debuted on the island, including Cayaks, which allows guests to explore underwater landscapes using fully transparent kayaks, Aquanauts Grenada, featuring eco-diving packages, yoga retreats and Scubasana courses, and Culinary Safari by Flavours of Grenada, a gastro adventure hosted by Chef Belinda Bishop.

Grenada’s latest transmedia campaign, ‘Grenada Rocks,’ launched on March 1 to highlight the diverse expe-

riences visitors can find on the island.

Phase one of the campaign featured videos starring recording artist Jevaughn John ‘V’ghn and international fashion designer with Grenadian roots Fe Noel. The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) is encouraging everyone to share their personal Grenada stories using the hashtag #GrenadaRocks.

For the most up-to-date entry requirements and health protocols go to covid19.gov.gd.

May 27, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 21

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Barbados updates entry protocols for the safe return of travel TORONTO — Barbados has updated its entry protocols to reflect the current landscape and welcome the safe reopening of properties across the island.

As of May 8, 2021, changes to the Barbados Travel Protocols include updates to the second COVID-19 test requirements for vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers as well as new protocols for countries of special interest including Brazil, India and South Africa.

The process for vaccinated travellers is as follows: • COVID-19 PCR test taken with negative result three days prior to arrival in Barbados, with results uploaded to the BIMSafe App or online at www. travelform.gov.bb. Visitors must travel with a copy of their results.

• Second COVID-19 PCR (or rapid test for vaccinated travellers) on arrival at either the airport or approved accommodations. Travellers must remain on property while awaiting results.

• Once a negative result is achieved from the second test (1-2 days later), visitors can enjoy Barbados freely.

Health and safety protocols like mask wearing and social distancing must be respected.

The process for unvaccinated travellers is as follows: • COVID-19 PCR test taken with negative result three days prior to arrival in Barbados, with results uploaded to the BIMSafe App or online at www. travelform.gov.bb. Visitors must travel with a copy of their results.

• Use designated transportation to approved accommodations and quarantine for five days. Unvaccinated guests are not permitted to leave their rooms/suites during this period.

• A second COVID-19 PCR test is required five days after arrival, those who refuse may be denied entry or be quarantined for 14 days.

• Once a negative result is achieved from the second test (1-2 days later), visitors can enjoy Barbados freely. Health and safety protocols like mask wearing and social distancing must be respected.

The process for travellers – vaccinated or unvaccinated – who have travelled to Brazil, India or South Africa within the last 21 days is as follows: • A negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 72 hours prior to arrival.

• COVID-19 PCR test conducted upon arrival at the airport, followed by a seven-day quarantine period.

• After the quarantine period, travellers are required to take a second

COVID-19 PCR test.

• Once a negative test result is received travellers can enjoy Barbados freely.

“The Barbados Travel Protocols are reviewed frequently and carefully so that we can make necessary updates swiftly to best prepare for the return of travel,” said Peter Mayers, Director of Canada, Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI). “We have been working hard to ready ourselves to welcome visitors when the time is right. Dialogue with our health and safety experts to expand our knowledge and understanding of the pandemic is ongoing and we look forward to the day when we can once again invite Canadians to join us to reconnect and rejuvenate in paradise.”

BTMI is encouraging all travel advisors to become a Barbados specialist and start earning rewards. To register for the Barbados Elite Club go to https:// us.barbadoseliteclub.com/register.

NEW LOOK, SAME TRUSTED SOURCE

Top Story

Your new Travelweek.ca has arrived

TORONTO — An informed, reliable and up-to-the-minute news source is crucial in these challenging times. Staying on top of the latest travel industry updates is more important than ever.

It’s all at Travelweek.ca...

Travelweek’s new-look website at Travelweek.ca delivers all the in-depth reporting that travel agents and the trade have relied on for close to 50 years, with a brand new high-impact, high-function design.

• From airline, cruise and tour operator updates, to travel retailer news

The redesigned Travelweek.ca is an ideal complement for Travelweek Daily, also sporting a new look, & Travelweek magazine, now in digital format.

“Travelweek is known for its print magazines. But we have invested heavily in our digital products too, for more than 20 years now. Between travelweek.ca and Travelweek Daily we’re a leader and an innovator as a digital news source for the Canadian travel industry,” says Devin Kinasz, Publisher of Travelweeek. “And now our beautiful new website showcases our digital offerings even more.”

• The top travel industry news coverage, original content and special series

• The latest government policies and their impact on the industry • Special series like ‘Industry Experts’ and our ‘Take 5’ series • Our Marketplace section with Job, FAM and Event listing • Educational offerings like webinars and e-learning • Deals, incentives and commission opportunities • And much more....

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WORLD NEWS Air Canada sends essential supplies to India

AIRLINES Air Canada is helping in India’s relief efforts by operating a cargo-only flight to Delhi as the country continues to struggle with record-breaking daily cases of COVID-19. In collaboration with the Toronto Business Development Centre (TBDC) and the Government of Ontario, an Air Canada Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner took off from Toronto on May 18 with 40 tonnes of essential supplies that included oxygen cylinders, oxygen generators and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Air Canada also carried 100 ventilators donated recently by the Saskatchewan Government. All medical equipment that have been donated by government agencies and partners are new and will be consigned to the Red Cross upon arrival in India.

MGM Grand reopened its Grand Buffet on May 26 after months of closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Featuring breakfast, lunch and weekend brunch offerings, guests have the option to choose from a variety of hot and cold stations. The buffet is open Thursday-Monday from 7 a.m.2 p.m., and is priced from U$25.99 per person (Monday, Thursday, Friday) and $29.99 per person (Saturday and Sunday) Children five and under eat complimentary at all meal periods. The buffet will adhere to MGM’s Seven-Point Safety Plan, which includes advanced cleaning protocols and multiple hand sanitizer stations in between stations.

Vaccinations in Cuba

DESTINATIONS TOURISM Following the news that all EU member states have given the green light for the EU Digital COVID Certificate, Virginia Messina, Senior Vice President of WTTC said that the new certificate could be the key to unlocking international travel and save thousands of businesses and millions of jobs across Europe and beyond. “It will see all 27 member states welcoming vaccinated travellers and those with proof of a negative test or a positive antibody test in time for the peak summer season, which will provide a massive and much-needed boost to economies,” she said. “We call on all member states to have the certificate up and running by July 1 with no extra restrictions.”

Margaritaville

HOTELS & RESORTS Bookings have opened for the new Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau in The Bahamas, which will make its grand debut on the eastern end of Junkanoo Beach this July. Rates start at US$325 per night. Located within walking distance to cruise ship terminals, the resort will anchor the highend waterfront development known as The Pointe, which features a 40-slip marina and is situated just steps from the historic city centre and famous markets. The resort features two separate towers totalling 300 rooms including 68 suites, the FlowRider Surf Simulator at Fins Up Water Park, a private movie theatre, the St. Somewhere Spa, 12 restaurants and lounges, and 40,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space.

24 | TRAVELWEEK | May 27, 2021

The vaccination process of all tourism workers has begun in Cuba, starting in Havana with tourist drivers followed by hotel and tourism workers in main destinations across the country. “This process will offer greater safety assurances to Canadians when visiting the island,” said Lessner Gomez, Director of the Cuba Tourist Board in Toronto. He added that tourism workers have been prioritized along with health personnel on the island, and that Cuba is working towards having 70% of its entire population vaccinated by August.

“Cuba is safe and ready to receive Canadians when flights resume,” added Lessner.

Costa Cruises

CRUISE LINES Costa Cruises’ Costa Luminosa set sail again on May 16 from the port of Trieste, becoming the company’s second ship in 2021 to resume operations and the first to resume cruises in the Adriatic Sea and Greece. Overall, Costa has a total of four ships scheduled to resume cruises this summer.

In addition to Trieste, Costa Luminosa’s one-week itinerary includes visits to Bari and four Greek destinations: Corfu, Athens, Mykonos and Katakolon/Olympia. It will be available throughout the summer and part of autumn until midNovember 2021 for a total of 27 cruises. Prior to Luminosa, the flagship Costa Smeralda departed from Savona on May 1. Costa Deliziosa will restart week-long Greece cruises on June 26, Costa Firenze will launch one-week cruises in Italy on July 4, and Costa Smeralda will begin sailing one-week cruises in Italy, France and Spain on July 3.

NEWS cruise credit (FCC) equivalent to 100% of the cruise fare paid plus an additional non-refundable bonus FCC equal to 10% of the cruise fare paid (minimum $25 USD) or a full refund to the original form of payment. Requests must be received by June 30, 2021, or guests will automatically receive the FCC option. FCCs can be used on any cruises booked by and sailing by Dec. 31, 2022.

Holland America Line

Princess, HAL announce summer 2021 Alaska sailings with no Canadian ports TORONTO — The first cruise ship itineraries to restart out of the U.S. for summer 2021 could be Alaska sailings that bypass Canadian ports, with news breaking on May 20 that the Alaska Tourism Restoration Act has been passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, followed hours later by word of new Alaska sailings announced by Princess and Holland America Line starting this July. U.S. President Biden then signed the Act on May 24.

While the Alaska Tourism Restoration Act is good news for U.S. cruise lines looking to salvage the summer 2021 Alaska cruise season, it's bad news for Canadian port cities and other Canadian tourism operations that rely on the Alaska cruise season.

Ships with non-U.S. registry can’t embark and disembark passengers at more than one U.S. port – unless the itinerary also includes a foreign port.

For Alaska cruises, the 'foreign ports' have always been Canadian. It’s all part of the U.S. Passenger Vessel Services Act (PVSA).

The Alaska Tourism Recovery Act allows for just a temporary exemption, until February 2022, when Canada's ban on cruise ships, extended in February 2021 by a year by Transport Minister Omar Alghabra, is set to expire.

That's the only glimmer of hope for Canadian port cities like Vancouver

and Victoria, and Canadian tourism operations large and small that rely heavily on the dollars brought in by the Alaska cruise season.

PRINCESS CRUISES AIMS FOR JULY 25 U.S. RESTART Princess announced on May 20 that following passage of the Alaska Tourism Restoration Act, work with Alaska government officials, and recent guidance from the CDC, the cruise line intends to return to service in the U.S. with a partial season of Alaska sailings from Seattle.

Departing July 25 through Sept. 26, 2021, roundtrip Seattle, seven-day cruises onboard Majestic Princess opened for sale on May 21, 2021. Ports of call include Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, as well as Glacier Bay National Park.

Princess says dining, entertainment and shore excursion details are currently being finalized and will be communicated in the coming weeks.

The sailings are available for passengers who have received their final dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to the beginning of the cruise and have proof of vaccination.

To accommodate the restart, all remaining roundtrip Seattle cruises on Emerald Princess, including Alaska Inside Passage and a Northern California Coast cruise will be cancelled. For guests booked on a cancelled Alaska voyage, Princess will offer to move and give priority for Majestic Princess cruises departing the next day in 2021. Alternatively, guests can choose a future

HOLLAND AMERICA’S ALASKA RESTART SET FOR JULY 24 Meanwhile, Holland America Line, another Carnival Corp. line, also plans to restart cruising to Alaska in July roundtrip from Seattle, aboard Nieuw Amsterdam.

Bookings are open for 10 Saturday departures that will operate from July 24 through Oct. 2. The seven-day 'Alaskan Explorer' itinerary calls at Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka and Ketchikan.

Quarantine measures extended until June 21, but “stay tuned” says Transport Minister Alghabra OTTAWA — The federal government has extended temporary travel restrictions, including Canada’s hotel quarantine, by another month, until June 21, 2021.

Citing an elevated risk of imported COVID-19 cases into Canada, the government is extending the temporary travel measures restricting entry into Canada by foreign nationals until June 21. It is also extending the following measures: mandatory pre-arrival, on-arrival and post-arrival testing requirements; mandatory hotel stopover for air travellers; and mandatory 14day quarantine for travellers.

Last week the government also extended the Canada-U.S. border closure, also to June 21. The extension dates have been coordinated for several months now.

In comments made at a federal ministers and health officials COVID-19 update on May 21, when asked about the potential for required vaccinations for airline flight crew, Transport Minister Omar Alghabra repeated the federal government's messaging that “now is not the time to travel.”

May 27, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 25

NEWS Then he added: “Stay tuned … we're going to have new announcements, new measures” as Canada begins to reopen to international travel.

INDIA & PAKISTAN FLIGHT BAN EXTENDED The federal government is also extending its flight restrictions and third country pre-departure testing requirements for India and Pakistan until June 21, 2021. Passengers who depart India or Pakistan to Canada, via an indirect route, must obtain a COVID-19 pre-departure test from a third country before continuing their journey to Canada.

Canada first announced a ban on flights from India and Pakistan on April 23, for 30 days, in response to record-breaking cases of COVID-19 in both countries.

“These ongoing measures are in place to help protect Canadians and manage the elevated risk of imported cases of COVID-19 and variants of concern into Canada during a time of increasing pressure on our healthcare system,” said Alghabra.

Air Canada to launch new Hawaii routes this winter MONTREAL — Air Canada is heading to the Aloha State this winter with nonstop service from Canada, including its first Montreal-Honolulu and Toronto-Maui flights.

These new flights complement the airline’s long-standing services from Calgary and Vancouver to the Hawaiian Islands and will enable convenient connections across Canada as well as from Europe.

According to Mark Galardo, Senior Vice President, Network Planning and Revenue Management, Air Canada is seeing “strong demand” in sun markets this winter.

“As we finalize our schedule to position Air Canada’s leadership in leisure travel this winter, we have added new nonstop flights to Hawaii from Montreal and Toronto in addition to our flights from Calgary and Vancouver, making it more convenient than ever for Canadians across the country to experience the Hawaiian Islands,” he said. “From Europe, customers will be able to easily connect to our Hawaii flights from our 26 | TRAVELWEEK | May 27, 2021

Hawaii

Montreal and Toronto gateways. We know people will be excited to travel this winter and we look forward to welcoming our customers onboard.”

Air Canada’s new Hawaii flights from Montreal and Toronto feature a choice of three cabins of service, including the airline’s premium travel experiences and Air Canada Signature Class featuring lie-flat Executive Pods. Seats are on sale now for next winter.

Montreal to Honolulu departs Wednesdays and Sundays and begins

“From Europe, customers will be able to easily connect to our Hawaii flights from our Montreal and Toronto gateways. We look forward to welcoming our customers onboard.”

Dec. 12, 2021, with connections to/ from Brussels, Frankfurt, intra-Quebec and Atlantic Canada.

Toronto to Maui departs Saturdays and starts Dec. 19, while Toronto to Honolulu departs Mondays, Fridays and Sundays beginning Dec. 17, with connections to/from London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Vienna, Atlantic Canada, intra-Ontario and Manitoba.

Calgary to Honolulu departs Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays starting Dec. 18, while Calgary to Maui departs Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays commencing Dec. 18, with connections to/from Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and other Canadian markets.

Vancouver to Honolulu departs up to daily in peak winter starting Sept.

14. Vancouver to Maui starts Sept. 10, also up to daily in peak winter, while Vancouver to Kona will start Dec. 19 on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays. Connections are seamless to/from B.C. and other Canadian markets.

To provide reassurance to customers, Air Canada’s new refund policy offers options of refunds, an Air Canada Travel Voucher or equivalent value in Aeroplan Points with a 65% bonus should the airline cancel or reschedule a flight by more than three hours. This policy is applicable to all tickets purchased.

New Tourism & Travel grant to provide Ontario businesses with one-time payments TORONTO — More aid is coming to travel agencies and small tourism businesses, courtesy of the Ontario government’s new $100 million grant.

NEWS Announced on May 14 by Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, the Ontario Tourism and Travel Small Business Support Grant will provide onetime payments of $10,000 to $20,000 to support eligible small tourism and travel businesses struggling to recover from the impact of the pandemic.

Small business owners can use the grant in whatever way makes the most sense for their business. Applications for the grant will close on June 25, 2021.

For information on eligibility and how to apply go to www.ontario.ca/covidsupport.

According to MacLeod, the grant will support businesses that did not receive the Ontario Small Business Support Grant (OSBSG), which include travel agents, hotels, motels, resorts and bed and breakfasts. To qualify, businesses must have fewer than 100 employees and demonstrate they have experienced a minimum 20 per cent revenue decline between 2019 and 2020.

“Prior to the pandemic, Ontario’s tourism generated more than $36 billion in economic activity and supported more than 400,000 jobs across the province,” said MacLeod. “Our government is working with small businesses to overcome the challenges of the past year – through programs like the Ontario Tourism and Travel Small Business Support Grant – and help the tourism industry reclaim its place as an economic powerhouse and key job creator in our province.”

As announced in the 2021 Budget, Ontario is investing more than $400 million over the next three years in new initiatives to support tourism, hospitality, culture, sport and recreation sectors. This builds on investments of $225 million announced earlier, bringing the total support for these sectors to more than $625 million since the pandemic began.

According to Lisa Thompson, Minister of Government and Consumer Services, the government will be ready to deliver payments to the tourism businesses that have faced revenue loss, which will complement fee relief already provided to travel agents and wholesalers earlier in the pandemic.

"This substantial grant will support their bottom line and help them keep Ontarians safe until we can once again enjoy travel with friends and family,” said Thompson.

Jean-Marc Eustache and Annick Guerard

Eustache retiring from Transat effective May 27 MONTREAL — Transat co-founder, president and CEO Jean-Marc Eustache is handing over the reins of the corporation to Annick Guérard, in keeping with the company’s succession plan put in place several years ago.

The change takes effect May 27 when Guérard, who has been Transat's Chief Operating Officer since November 2017, takes over as President and CEO. Eustache is also stepping down from his role on the board of directors. Raymond Bachand, the lead director of the corporation, will succeed Eustache as Chairman of the Board and Guérard will join the Board of Directors.

For decades Eustache has been a visionary in the travel industry. He co-founded Transat in 1987 with Lina De Cesare and Philippe Sureau, and steady growth and vertical integration followed.

Before the pandemic hit Transat was poised for acquisition by Air Canada for $720 million. That deal was announced in 2019. The deal foundered and both Air Canada and Transat have since announced financial assistance agreements with the federal government as they look to get back on solid footing post-pandemic.

"With the crisis resulting from the

COVID-19, we were most happy to have been able to rely on all of JeanMarc's experience and wisdom to face the worse storm in the history of Transat and the tourism industry, until the implementation of the critical $700 million financing announced on April 29, 2021 which will provide Transat with the funds it needs to relaunch its operations on solid grounds once it emerges from the pandemic-induced restrictions,” said Bachand.

"We are grateful to Jean-Marc for his contribution and his unwavering dedication throughout his tenure at Transat, and we now hope that he can fully enjoy his well-deserved retirement,” he added.

Eustache said this about his retirement from the company that he helped build from the ground up: ”I leave the company in the good hands of Annick Guérard, who has my full confidence as well as that of the rest of the management team and the Board of Directors.

“I have no doubt that, under her leadership, Transat will accomplish great things and once again become a formidable competitor admired by all.

“It is now time to make room for new decision-makers, as Transat will deploy the plan that will once again make it a solid, profitable company and, for a long time to come, the symbol of leisure travel in the eyes of its many customers, in Quebec and elsewhere.”

May 27, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 27

Viking to resume European river sailings in July LOS ANGELES — Viking has set its sights on a July restart for its European river operations, with select itineraries sailing in Portugal, France and along the Rhine.

Offered exclusively for vaccinated guests as part of Viking’s ‘Welcome Back’ collection, the first five European river itineraries now available in July are among the company’s most popular. These include the eight-day ‘Rhine Getaway’ sailing from Amsterdam to Basel; the 10-day ‘Portugal’s River of

“The response to our initial Welcome Back ocean voyages has been overwhelmingly positive.”

Gold’ from Lisbon to Porto; the eightday ‘Paris & the Heart of Normandy’, Paris roundtrip; the eight-day ‘Lyon & Provence’ sailing from Avignon to Lyon; and the 15-day ‘France’s Finest’, a journey that combines the northern and southern France itineraries.

The news comes on the heels of EU ambassadors agreeing on measures that will allow fully vaccinated visitors into the EU, quarantine free.

“The response to our initial Welcome Back ocean voyages has been overwhelmingly positive,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “We have been delighted to greet our first guests back onboard in England this week and we are looking forward to welcoming travellers back onboard some of our European river vessels in July.”

Viking previously launched its ‘Welcome Back’ voyages exclusively for vaccinated guests in England, Iceland, Bermuda and the Mediterranean. Last week, the cruise line also named its newest ocean ship, Viking Venus, in England, which is currently sailing its maiden voyage along the coast of England with the Chairman onboard.

Viking is working on developing additional ‘Welcome Back’ itineraries in other destinations, with the goal of announcing further 2021 sailings as soon as possible.

For a complete overview of Viking’s Health & Safety program go to www. viking.com/health-safety.

28 | TRAVELWEEK | May 27, 2021

Credit: Jay Dash Photography

NEWS

Ogden, Utah

Urban experiences in Utah are a perfect mix with the state's natural beauty Even in Utah’s cities and towns, you’re never far from nature.

In fact Utah’s top urban draws from the capital, Salt Lake City; to quirky, fun-loving Ogden; to Provo within Utah Valley; to the red rocks of St. George - all offer postcard-worthy skylines complete with spectacular mountain ranges and rock formations for backdrops.

A day of hiking with gorgeous views can be topped with great dining and a luxurious hotel stay downtown. Or shop ’til you drop in the city, then watch the sun set from a perfect mountain vantage point.

Utah’s urban experiences include …

SALT LAKE CITY: For many firsttime visitors Salt Lake City is best known for its star turn as host of the 2002 Winter Olympics (where both the Canadian men’s and women’s hockey teams took home Olympic gold!). Head 20 minutes into the mountains for Utah Olympic Park to experince Extreme Tubing, the Alpine Slide or even the Summer Bobsled.

Back downtown, there are restaurants and microbreweries galore, with an emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients. Favourite SLC neighbourhoods include the 9th and 9th District with its espresso bars and bakeries, the University of Utah campus district (home to Red Butte Garden and the state’s Natural History Museum), the historic Sugar House neighbourhood, The Avenues and Capitol Hill.

Best Salt Lake area hiking spots: Ensign Peak and Neff’s Canyon.

OGDEN: ‘Ogdenites’ love their city, and it shows. Ogden’s youthful, artistic vibe has made it a draw for

creatives, who infuse the city with a unique spark. There’s history here too, most evident in the lovingly preserved Art Deco architecture. Back in the late 1800s, in the days of the First Transcontinental Railroad, Ogden was a boom town with speakeasies aplenty. Now live music and brew pubs are the big draw, along with mountain biking, skiing and hiking trails right on the city’s doorstep (try Birdsong Trail, Bonneville Shoreline Trail or for the truly fit, Ben Lomond Peak).

PROVO: Provo is a museum lover’s dream, with several major venues including the BYU Museum of Paleontology, with its extensive collection of dinosaur fossils, and the BYU Museum of Art. Meanwhile downtown Provo is known for its Farmers Market, murals and global artisan restaurant scene. For outdoor pursuits, Provo Canyon is home to Bridal Veil Falls and the Provo River Parkway, plus a long list of adventure outfits offering everything from zip lining to horseback riding and more.

ST. GEORGE: St. George has plenty of charms in its own right, from superb dining to top destination spas like Red Mountain Resort and Spa. Family-friendly attractions include the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site and the St. George Children’s Museum. St. George also happens to be the gateway to Zion National Park, one of Utah’s ‘Mighty 5’. The city’s beautiful red rock plateaus are just the start of the spectacular scenery waiting for visitors at Zion, just over a 30-minute drive away.

For more information check out VisitUtah.com.

NEWS Sandals Royal Barbados

All Sandals and Beaches resorts now open and fully operational MONTEGO BAY — It’s been a long road to recovery but Sandals Resorts International (SRI) has finally done it. For the first time since the start of the pandemic, all Sandals and Beaches resorts are open and accepting guests.

The reopening of Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados prompted Executive Chairman Adam Stewart to call May 14 a “landmark day,” with all Sandals Resorts (with the exception of Sandals Royal Bahamian in Nassau, which is undergoing an extensive transformation before its Nov. 4 reopening) fully open and operational.

All three Beaches Resorts in Jamaica and Turks and Caicos are also open.

“Today is a landmark day for Sandals Resorts International, marking the first time since the start of the pandemic that we are operational in every Caribbean destination we serve,” said Stewart. “This is a testament to our incredible team, our loyal guests and travel advisors who trust our brands to deliver on our promises of putting the health and safety of their customers first.”

He added: “We are proud to have led the reopening efforts throughout the Caribbean and set a standard for how to safely and successfully welcome back travellers. It’s really a great day and just the beginning.”

Uniworld to resume cruises on June 20 TORONTO — Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has announced its long-awaited resumption of operations, with cruises returning to Europe’s rivers next month.

The cruise line, which has been on pause due to the global pandemic, will restart cruises in Italy on June 20, 2021 with its recently transformed Super Ship, S.S. La Venezia. Cruises will resume in France shortly thereafter, with first departures for S.S. Bon Voyage on June 27, S.S. Joie de Vivre on July 4, and S.S. Catherine on July 11.

Both Italy and France recently announced the reopening of borders to international travellers in June.

“We’ve been waiting for this moment and are beyond thrilled to be back on the rivers, welcoming back our loyal guests on four of our most beautiful Super Ships this summer,” says Ellen Bettridge, President & CEO of Uniworld. “Our guests are like family to us and their well-being is our main priority, which is why we’re taking all of the necessary precautions to ensure they’re comfortable when they’re ready to explore the rivers with us again.”

Uniworld’s ‘Milan, Venice & the Gems of Northern Italy’ itinerary, commencing June 18 in Milan, will be the line’s first cruise since the start of the pandemic in March 2020. Additionally, the first four sailings of the year are included in the ‘Cruise Back Into Travel’ offer, valid for bookings through May 31 that allows guests to save up to 30% off per person on select dates for a limited

time. Savings include: • ‘Venice & the Gems of Northern Italy’: Guests will sail 8 days roundtrip on the S.S. La Venezia, from Venice along Northern Italy’s coastline.

Highlights include a private evening opening and lighting ceremony at St. Mark’s Basilica and a trip further south to the fishing port of Chioggia.

• ‘Brillint Bordeaux’: Onboard S.S Bon Voyage, guests will sail throughout Southwest France for eight days along three rivers – the Garonne, Dordogne and Gironde.

• ‘Paris & Normand’: This eight-day sailing on the S.S. Joie de Vivre will sail roundtrip from Paris through Normandy’s countryside.

• ‘Burgundy & Provence’: Onboard the S.S. Catherine, guests will cruise the Rhône and Saône rivers to discover the medieval wonders of UNESCO-designated Avignon and Lyon’s lively riverbanks.

Bettridge adds that these first itineraries are the just “first step in getting all of our ships back on the rivers this year.” Launching in Egypt on Sept. 25 is the all-new S.S. Sphinx, plus Uniworld will begin sailing the Peruvian Amazon on Sept. 1 with two new itineraries aboard the Aria Amazon.

“We’ve been waiting for this moment and are thrilled to be back on the rivers, welcoming back our loyal guests on four of our most beautiful Super Ships this summer.”

“Demand for river cruising is at an all-time high and the support and excitement we are receiving from both new and old guests is outstanding,” says Bettridge.

All sailings are inclusive of all meals onboard, premium spirits and wines, riverview accommodations, offshore excursions, airport transfers and onboard gratuities and Wi-Fi. Click here for a complete list of cruises opening for travel. For more information go to uniworld.com or contact the reservations team at 1-800-257-2407.

May 27, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 29

NEWS

From Canada, with love: Rendez-vous Canada 2021 connects the industry this week TORONTO — More than 3,500 travel agents have become Canada Specialists since the start of 2021, thanks to Destination Canada.

Back at the start of summer 2020 Destination Canada launched its new landing page for agents, CanadaSpecialist.ca, as part of the Canada Specialist program. The French-language version is at specialistesducanada.ca.

Since that time the program has seen great success, ensuring that more and more agents are ready to sell Canada either for this summer - if interprovincial travel restrictions ease - or for later in the year.

Destination Canada shared the Canada Specialist metric at the kick-off to Rendez-vous Canada 2021, better known as RVC+.

The online event was held from May 17-20. Delegates were able to connect with tourism operators through oneon-one meetings, visit the Destination Canada virtual lounge and meet with DC team members.

It was the first RVC in two years after the 2020 event was cancelled due to the pandemic.

“With great challenges come the opportunity for renewal,” said Monique Gomal, Destination Canada, Interim Chair, Board of Directors, during introductory remarks at the ‘Inside Track’ session at RVC 2021.

VACCINATION CERTIFICATES Marsha Walden, President and CEO, Destination Canada, then took the virtual stage, providing more insight to the challenges facing Canada’s tourism sector throughout the pandemic.

While there are still plenty of uncertainties ahead, Walden said Canada “is making great progress,” noting that Canada has one of the highest rates of vaccine willingness in the world.

Walden and Beth Potter, President and CEO of TIAC, also spoke about vaccination certificates, an issue that Canada’s Health Minister Patty Hajdu and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau have indicated that Canada is onboard with for international travel. Discussions among the G7 countries are underway.

The outcome of those discussions “will impact our sector tremendously,” 30 | TRAVELWEEK | May 27, 2021

Destination Canada's Maureen Riley, VP, International (left) and Marsha Walden, President and CEO (right)

said Walden. Added Potter: “Our efforts at TIAC are to lead the conversation” to ensure “one seamless system across Canada” for vaccination certification.

The last thing Canada needs is a patchwork of different regional systems for vaccination certification that will make for more confusion than clarity, said Potter.

QUICK CLICKS TO SEND A POSTCARD TO FAMILY AND FRIENDS Also highlighted during RVC+’s Inside Track session is Destination Canada’s new partnership with MyPostcard.

Starting on May 25 - in celebration of National Tourism Week (May 23-30), Canadians looking to inspire friends and family in Canada with a real postcard celebrating Canadian tourism can do so in just four online steps.

1. Go to mypostcard.com and pick a postcard 2. Write a message 3. Address the card 4. Hit send MyPostcards will print and mail the postcard with delivery in approximately 3-6 business days. “It’s a real postcard, with a real stamp,” says Walden.

Postcards are available in English and French and can be sent anywhere in Canada. In the future Destination Canada hopes to be able to extend the invitation to friends and family further afield.

Destination Canada’s recent report suggests that 80% of Canadians are eager to get back out and explore. Destination Canada’s focus is on making sure they do that in Canada.

Sunwing heading back to Windsor, Waterloo & Hamilton with winter sun flights TORONTO — Sunwing is returning to three key Canadian gateways the 2021/2022 season with weekly flight service to popular sun destinations.

From Windsor International Airport, flights Cayo Santa Maria will begin Dec. 14, 2021 on Tuesdays and will run until April 5, 2022, while service to Varadero will commence Dec. 16, 2021 on Thursdays and will run until April 14, 2022.

From the Region of Waterloo International Airport, weekly flights to Cancun will operate on Mondays starting Dec. 13, 2021 and running until April 18, 2022.

From John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport, flights to Cancun, Punta Cana, Montego Bay, Varadero, Cayo Coco and Cayo Santa Maria will operate from early December 2021 through mid-April 2022.

Sunwing has also announced ramped up services in recent weeks from Ontario and Atlantic Canada. In addition to Windsor, Waterloo and Hamilton, it will be heading back to Sudbury and North Bay this winter with service to Cancun and Varadero; to London, ON with service to Cancun, Punta Cana and Varadero; and to Thunder Bay with vacation packages to Mexico, Cuba and the Dominican Republic. Last month also saw the release of Sunwing’s Atlantic Canada winter schedule featuring weekly flights from Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

NEWS

MONTREAL — Transat has launched a new online tool to help travel agents and travellers track their refund requests.

Transat first announced last month that it will now be offering refunds to travellers who were issued a travel credit due to COVID-19, while at the same time protecting agent commissions.

With the new tracker tool, users simply enter the Transat booking number and full name to check the status of their request. Refund requests will have one of the following statuses: Received, Processing, or Review has been completed.

The tool does not provide tracking for group or GDS bookings.

For more details agents are invited to visit transat.com or Transat Agent Direct.

Build your own bubble with Goway’s smallgroup vacations TORONTO — Goway is making it possible for travellers to stay within their group bubble with highly-customized ‘bubble’ vacations to some of the world’s most sought-after destinations.

Crafted in partnership with Goway’s trusted travel partners, these smallgroup vacations are based on a minimum of 10 passengers travelling together to destinations across Asia,

Credit:Goway

Transat unveils new refund tracking tool

Africa, the Middle East, Central & South America, Downunder, the Idyllic Islands as well as the U.K. and Europe.

Each itinerary offers easy movement and adheres to health and safety standards.

According to the company, these small group bubble vacations are an easy sell, perfect for multi-generational families, groups of friends and special interest groups.

Customized small-group vacations are available for 2022 and beyond in destinations like South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Bali and mainland Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. More countries will be available as borders continue to reopen.

“There’s really no better time to adopt the concept of the ‘bubble’ and apply it to group travel than right now,”

PEOPLE TICO welcomes new Board Chair TICO has announced a new Board Chair to take over the reins from Jean Hébert, who has successfully completed his five-plus-year tenure. Stepping into the role is Michael Levinson, who brings with him over 35 years of experience, largely in strategic roles including hotel development & operations, real estate, property management and software development. He previously served as President of the Ottawa Gatineau Hotel & Motel Association, and Vice President of the Ontario Hotel & Motel Association. He was also a board member of the Human Resources Executives of the Canadian Tourism Research Institute (CTRI), a division of the Conference Board of Canada.

Levinson was appointed as TICO’s new Chair of the Board of Directors by the Minister of Government and Consumer Services.

says Barbara Norton, VP of Groups at Goway. “Not only do our bubble itineraries allow travellers to see the world together and incorporate the best health and safety standards, but they’re also of great value.”

Small-group vacations are based on a minimum of 10 passengers travelling to destinations across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Central & South America, Downunder, the Idyllic Islands as well as the U.K. and Europe.

Norton notes that all bubble itineraries have special pre-costed, commissionable pricing based on select travel dates to the end of 2022, plus one tour leader for each group travels for free.

Travel agents are reminded that all group vacations are flexible; there are no set departure dates and nothing is pre-booked. “So everything can be customized to accommodate the specific interests of the group,” adds Norton.

Each vacation has enhanced Terms & Conditions and comes with Goway’s ‘Book with Confidence Commitment.’

For more information go to www.goway. com/group or contact the Groups Only team by email at groups@goway.com or telephone at 1-800-838-0618.

May 27, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 31

NEWS

Anguilla to reopen borders May 25 following recent outbreak THE VALLEY, ANGUILLA — After suffering a temporary setback that saw the re-closure of its borders, Anguilla once again reopened to visitors on May 25.

The island was forced to close to tourists for a month after a cluster of COVID-19 cases was identified on April 22. With the outbreak now successfully contained, coupled with ongoing vaccination efforts, The Government of Anguilla has reduced the quarantine period to seven days for visitors who are fully vaccinated. Fully vaccinated means having the last dose of vaccine administered at least three weeks before arrival on the island.

“We suffered a temporary setback when we had to close our borders on April 22,” said the Parliamentary Secretary Tourism, Quincia Gumbs-Marie.

“We acted swiftly and implemented a number of proactive measures to manage and contain this cluster of infections, along with an expanded vaccination outreach. The result is that we are confident we can now safely reopen while protecting the health of our residents and visitors.”

Anguilla’s previously released measures will remain in place. For more information on travel to Anguilla go to www.IvisitAnguilla.com/escape.

Anguilla

32 | TRAVELWEEK | May 27, 2021

Win a free Eurail pass Over 350 in with Rail Europe’s new attendance at TPI’s mid-year conference travel agent course PARIS — Rail Europe is inviting travel agents to take its new agent course for a chance to win a free Eurail pass.

Launched on the company’s e-learning platform, The Rail Agent Course is designed to help agents learn about the Eurail pass in all its forms. Those who complete the new module will be entered to win a Eurail pass, First Class, for unlimited travel in Europe.

In February, Rail Europe released a mobile version of the iconic Eurail passes on its API and agent website.

The mobile pass allows travellers to cross up to 33 countries on several railway networks using just one pass.

Travellers can download the app and enter their pass number and name to view their itineraries, plan journeys and keep all group of family passes in one convenience space.

A Eurail pass is an all-in-one train ticket giving flexible access to most trains across Europe. There are two versions of the pass: the Global pass, which allows pass holders to travel around 33 countries within a given time period, and the One Country pass for exploring a specific European country on Rail Europe’s national railway network.

To take the e-learning program go to raileurope.travpromobile.com.

TORONTO — TPI is calling its midyear conference a “great success,” with over 30 supplier partners and 350 attendants coming together virtually to discuss ways on building future success.

The two-day conference included partner networking sessions and featured presentations led by various suppliers, including: Nino Montagnese, Vice President, Air Canada Vacations; Gary Murphy, Co-Owner & Senior Vice President, Sales, AmaWaterways; Vicki Freed, Senior Vice President of Sales, Trade Support and Service, Royal Caribbean International; Rob McChlery, Partner, Senior Associate, Investors Groups; and keynote speaker Geraldine Ree.

“We will continue to introduce new programs that are purposely built to drive business for our advisors.”

Three Advisor Panel sessions also took place that included the topics ‘Advisor Efficiencies with Technology,’ ‘Leading forward to Groups’ and ‘Activate your Brand Story.’

Saying that the organization has “missed out on so much” over the past 15 months, TPI’s CEO, Zeina Gedeon, called for all members to take the lessons learned throughout the pandemic and apply them as they focus on moving forward.

“The Head Office support team is ensuring the needs of our existing and future advisors with every program launched and decision made,” said Gedeon. “We will continue to innovate and introduce new programs that are purposely built to drive business and efficiencies for our advisors.”

Gedeon added that while the conference was a success, nothing beats “in-person connection,” which is why TPI is planning on conducting in-person ‘Fall Connections’ with its advisors across the country in October.

TPI’s 2022 Conference will be held in person next year from May 1-5.

NEWS

Porter’s new restart date is July 20

AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways to resume Europe sailings on July 3 TORONTO — AmaWaterways has marked July 3, 2021 as its resumption date, with voyages onboard select ships setting sail in Portugal.

According to Executive Vice President and Co-Founder Kristin Karst, sailings will kick off the first week of July in Portugal, followed by other restart dates throughout the month on select ships on all the European rivers, including the ultra-luxe AmaMagna on the Danube on July 21.

“Being born in Germany, I could not be happier about the announcement that Europe will be opened this summer to safely welcome back tourists to assist with the much needed economic and social recovery,” said Karst.

Specific sailing dates are as follows: • July 3: AmaDoura will commence sailings through Portugal

• July 21: AmaMagna will commence sailings on the Danube River • July 22: AmaKristina will commence sailings in France on the Rhône River • July 22: AmaLyra will commence sailings in France on the Seine River • July 27: AmaVida will commence sailings in Portugal and Spain • July 29: AmaDolce will commence sailings through Bordeaux, France • July 29: AmaSiena will commence sailings on the Rhine River AmaWaterways will be providing information in the coming days with regards to specific documentation that will be required for passengers to sail.

Details will also be posted in the Travel Updates section of its website and will be sent to travel agents via email.

For more details or to book a river cruise for a client, agents can call 1-800-626-0126 or visit the Travel Advisor Portal at www.AmaWaterways.com

PEOPLE Industry veteran Barb Finn lands at TTI Travel Travel industry veteran Barb Finn has joined the team at TTI Travel (Canada) as its new VP Leisure, New Talent Development. Finn most recently served nearly three years as Director Canada for Travel Edge and prior to that was Operations Manager/GM at New Wave Travel. On the travel partner and supplier side, Finn also worked in destination management during which she acted as the Account Director for the Kenya Tourist Board.

Rocky Racco, CEO of TTI Travel, added: “As we look forward to the rebirth of travel and coming out of this better and stronger, we are thrilled that Barb has joined us, given her extensive experience, expertise, service ethos and desire to make a very positive difference for all stakeholders associated with TTI.” Finn can be reached at bfinn@tticanada.com or (416) 369-3264.

MIAMI — Porter is pushing back its tentative resumption date by another month, to July 20.

The airline, which had previously targeted June 21 as its restart date, has been on pause since March 21, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Though this latest setback means having to wait another month for flights to resume, Michael Deluce, Porter’s president and CEO, says he’s encouraged by the ongoing recovery of the aviation industry in the United States, a hopeful sign of what’s to come here in Canada.

“As vaccination rates in Canada increase, we are hopeful travel restrictions and public health measures will ease so we can recall our team members, welcome back our passengers and begin to rebuild the airline,” he said.

Downloading health app no longer required for travellers, says Belize BELIZE CITY — Belize continues to ease its entry requirements, first by eliminating the need for a negative COVID-19 test for vaccinated travellers, and now by allowing visitors to enter without downloading its previously required health app.

According to the Government of Belize, travellers entering the country are no longer required to download and complete the Belize Travel Health App prior to arrival.

The country does, however, still require that travellers provide one of the following: proof of full COVID-19 immunization received at least two weeks prior to arrival; a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 96 hours of travel; or a negative rapid test (Rapid Antigen, Sofia, SD Biosensor, and ABBOTT) taken within 48 hours of travel.

In addition, international visitors must book at a Gold Standard hotel and present confirmation at immigration.

For more information go to https:// www.travelbelize.org/health-safety.

May 27, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 33

NEWS Le Marché, Club Med Québec Charlevoix

Bookings open for spring, summer fall 2022 at Club Med Québec Charlevoix TORONTO — Club Med has opened the books for spring, summer and fall 2022 vacations at its highly anticipated Club Med Québec Charlevoix, debuting Dec. 3, 2021.

The company previously launched winter pre-sale rates for stays between Dec. 3, 2021 and April 10, 2022.

With this new sale, which runs from May 18-June 29, 2021, guests can take advantage of the best rates starting at $210 per night, per person. Spring, summer and fall 2022 dates are now available between April 2022 and December 2022.

The all-inclusive mountain resort, the first to open in North America in over 15 years and Club Med’s inaugural all-season resort in Canada, was designed with family and fun in mind.

Family-friendly amenities include accommodations with separate rooms for kids, indoor splash pools, a dedicated restaurant ideal for little ones, Children’s Clubs and Teen Programs that take care of children from four months to 17 years old.

As part of all-inclusive packages, guests can explore mountain bike trains (accessible for all levels) and take part in theme guided hikes. A host of activities both inside and out are available, including mini golfing, running trails, volleyball, fitness classes, golf, canyoning, rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, a circus school, dogsledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, ice canoeing and, of course, skiing, with classes for as young as four years old.

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Earn 5X STAR points with Sunwing on new bookings for select Dreams and Secrets resorts TORONTO — Sunwing is offering 5X the STAR Agent Reward Points for new bookings for select Dreams Resorts & Spas, and also for Secrets Resorts & Spas.

The promotion runs through June 4, 2021 for travel Nov. 1, 2021-April 30, 2022. Sunwing's STAR Agent Reward Points convert to cash.

Clients can also take advantage of flexible booking options, an Early Booking Bonus and complimentary Price Drop Cash Back at select resorts.

Participating properties include Dreams Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort in Riviera Nayarit, Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana and Dreams Puerto Aventuras Resort and Spa, as well as Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort, and Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana.

Sunwing has extended its Freedom 21/22 Sale to include Dreams and Secrets Resorts. Clients can get flexible booking options, take advantage of an Early Booking Bonus and receive complimentary Price Drop Cash Back of up to $800 per couple at select resorts for travel between Nov. 1, 2021 and April 30, 2022, for a total value of up to $1,000

per couple on applicable packages.

Group clients can also save with Instant Group Savings of up to $400 per couple on applicable packages booked

by June 1, 2021, for travel from Feb. 1, 2022 onwards.

Plus, for every room booked at participating Dreams properties, agents will be entered for the chance to win a seven-night resort stay at Dreams Bahia Mita or Dreams Puerto Aventuras, or a seven-night resort stay at Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana or Secrets Riviera Cancun for every room booked at participating Secrets properties.

Sunwing's agent webinars taking place over the next month will include information on new properties and recent renovations with Dreams Resorts & Spas and Secrets Resorts & Spas.

Sunwing extends its temporary suspension of operations to July 29 TORONTO — Sunwing has extended its temporary suspension of operations until July 29, 2021.

“In light of the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing travel restrictions, Sunwing is extending its temporary suspension of flights until July 29, 2021,” says the company.

“Customers or their travel agents impacted by cancelled flights are being contacted by Sunwing directly to review their options.

“For any questions or concerns about cancelled flights, customers can contact their travel agent or get in touch with the Sunwing Sales Centre at 1-877-786-9464.”

All four of Canada’s major carriers agreed to a request from the federal government in late January 2021 to suspend sun destination flights through April 30.

In the intervening weeks all four airlines have updated their suspension of operation timelines.

Transat, while initially targeting midJune, later adjusted that date to July 29.

Sunwing's original target was June 23, now updated to July 29. WestJet is so far sticking to its temporary suspension of operations until June 4. Air Canada had three sun destinations on its schedule in May (Bridgetown, Kingston and Mexico City) but those were primarily for essential workers and cargo.

NEWS

Royal Caribbean and NCL to resume Alaska cruises MIAMI — Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) are the latest cruise lines to announce their return to Alaska this summer following the signing of the Alaska Tourism Restoration Act by U.S. President Biden on May 24.

The new legislation allows U.S. cruise ships to temporarily sail to Alaska without having to stop in Canada, a longstanding requirement set out by the U.S. Passenger Vessel Services Act (PVSA).

The Senate unanimously passed the bill earlier this month and was approved by the House of Representatives last week. With President Biden’s signature, the bill is now made official, giving U.S. cruise lines the chance to salvage a portion of the all-important Alaska season.

“Today, I signed the Alaska Tourism Restoration Act into law,” tweeted President Biden. “Tourism is vital to the state of Alaska and this law will help revitalize the industry and support Alaskans by allowing large cruise ships to return to the state this summer.”

Royal Caribbean’s and NCL’s announcements came on the heels of last week’s news that both Princess Cruises and Holland America Line will be resuming Alaska cruises from Seattle on July 25 and July 24, respectively.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN LINE Now given the green light to sail, Royal Caribbean has announced the launch of its Alaska season with seven-night cruises sailing roundtrip from Seattle on the Serenade and Ovation of the Seas starting July 19 and Aug. 13, respectively. Bookings are now open.

Serenade’s week-long itinerary features calls at Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan and Icy Strait Point, as well as Endicott Arm fjord and Dawes Glacier.

Ovation will follow suit in August with stops in Glacier National Park, the Inside Passage, Juneau and Skagway. Onboard, guests can enjoy magnificent views from the North Star glass observation capsule and include heart-pumping activities like skydiving in the RipCord by iFly simulator.

All crew members and passengers 16 years old and older must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 in order to sail. As of Aug. 1, the vaccination requirement goes down to everyone 12

years old and older. Passengers underMar age will receive a test prior toBaha sailing.

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE NCL expects to resume cruise operations from the U.S. beginning Aug. 7, 2021 with week-long voyages from Seattle to Alaska aboard Norwegian Bliss. The ship will sail revised itineraries from Aug. 7 through Oct. 16, 2021, offering 7-13 hours of port time in Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and Icy Strait Point. On select sailings, guests will also have the chance to take in the views of Glacier Bay National Park or the Holkham Bay Glacier Fjord.

Guests will also benefit from the opening of the second cruise pier in Icy Strait Point, which NCL’s parent company, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., developed in partnership with Alaska Native-owned Huna Totem Corporation. Initially scheduled to open during the 2020 summer cruise season, the recently expanded Wilderness Landing on Icy Strait Point features upgraded retail and restaurants and the most accessible coastal brown bear viewing platforms in Southeast Alaska, as well as shore excursion offerings including the world’s largest ZipRider zip line, whale watching and fishing adventures. In 2022, the Mountain Top gondola will provide vehicle-free access through the treetops.

Carnival reflags new ship Mardi Gras to Bahamian registry MIAMI — Carnival Cruise Line says its new ship Mardi Gras will have Bahamas registry, not Panama as originally planned.

Mardi Gras is scheduled to enter service on June 4, 2021, sailing from Port Canaveral. The ship will be flying the Ba-

hamian flag to designate the new ship registry for the first Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) ship to operate in North America.

Mardi Gras' first originally scheduled sailings, along with sailings for other Carnival ships and for cruise line operations around the world, have been upended over the past 14 months due to COVID-19. Originally Mardi Gras was scheduled to launch in 2020, but delays at the shipyard and then the pandemic changed those plans.

“We are pleased to bring this new level of environmental sustainability to the many ports that the ship and our guests will be visiting.”

But in recent weeks, with indications from the CDC that operations from U.S. ports could begin by mid-July, Carnival is moving Mardi Gras to Port Canaveral in preparation for the potential restart.

Mardi Gras will sail from Barcelona on May 21 to start its transatlantic voyage and eventual arrival in Florida.

Carnival President Christine Duffy thanked the Panama Maritime Authority for their support during the ship’s construction and registration process but said that the move to the Bahamas Maritime Authority made more business sense, for a number of reasons.

Says Duffy: “The Bahamas will be a frequent destination for Mardi Gras, and we are pleased to bring this new level of environmental sustainability to the many ports in the Bahamas and the Caribbean that the ship and our guests and crew will be visiting.”

Carnival’s Mardi Gras

May 27, 2021 | TRAVELWEEK | 35

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