Travelweek Magazine NOVEMBER 30 2023

Canada’s Travel Trade News

November 30, 2023

SHORT-TERM RENTAL SCRUTINY Page 3 JOINT VENTURE FOR AIR TRANSAT, PORTER Page 4 BRAND USA'S MEGAFAM Page 12

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Short-term rentals like Airbnb are back in the hot seat, and that could be good news for travel advisors

By Kathryn Folliott

TORONTO — Many years after the

popularity and proliferation of shortterm rentals began to hit the hotel industry’s bottom line, these platforms are back in the hot seat.

This time, measures to rein in shortterm rentals are all about enforcing the rules and potentially easing Canada’s affordable housing shortage.

But traditional hotels - and the travel advisors who book them - could benefit too.

In its 2023 Fall Economic Statement, released last week, the Canadian government said it intends to deny income tax deductions for expenses incurred to earn short-term rental income - in provinces and municipalities where short-term rentals are prohibited - and to do the same when short-term rental operators don’t play by the rules, in provinces and municipalities where short-term rentals are allowed.

The federal government also wants to support municipalities that are cracking down on non-compliant short-term rentals.

Simply put, the government wants short-term rentals back on the longterm housing market. As Housing Minister Sean Fraser told CBC: “If there’s tens of thousands of units we can turn into not a competitor for a hotel for a few nights but a home for a family in a community, it’s incumbent on us to do everything we can to use those properties for homes.”

In Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver alone, there were an estimated 18,900 homes being used as shortterm rental properties in 2020, according to the government’s number crunching: “These are not spare

bedrooms in someone’s home - they are entire houses and apartments that are being used for tourists to rent - in many cases, only for a few days a week.”

This move, at a federal level, follows short-term rental crackdown measures at lower levels of government across Canada, including B.C. and Quebec.

And it’s not just here at home that short-term rental sites are under the microscope. The long list of cities around the world looking at or passing regulations to limit or restrict short-term rental opportunities includes New York City, where Local Law 18, also known as the ‘Airbnb ban’, garnered plenty of headlines when it went into effect this past September.

So what does all of this have to do with travel advisors? While there’s nothing stopping a travel agent from booking short-term rental stays for their clients - and there can be ways to make money going that route - the DIY vibe promoted by platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo and the like lends itself to B2C consumer-led bookings, not travel agent bookings. Fewer short-term rentals on the market mean more travellers will be booking traditional

hotels and resorts, industry partners with a long history of working with (and paying) travel advisors.

Hotel companies have been speaking out about short-term rental platforms and the lack of a level playing field for years.

“I have never objected to the idea of a private homeowner renting out a room in their principle residence to make some extra income,” Robert C. Housez, General Manager, Chelsea Hotel, Toronto, tells Travelweek. “I do object to the idea that an individual can operate multiple residential units as a ‘ghost hotel’. This allows them to operate at an unfair advantage to a traditional hotel by avoiding commercial taxes and industry regulations.”

Officially, Toronto allows residents to short-term rent up to three bedrooms in their principal residence, in any housing type (house, apartment or condo), for an unlimited number of nights per year or the entire home for a maximum of 180 nights per year.

The dwelling must be their principal residence.

Toronto also has a mandatory Municipal Accommodation Tax for hotels and short-term rental operators. The MAT, which provides funding for Destination Toronto, increased from 4 to November 30, 2023 | TRAVELWEEK | 3

TOP NEWS 6% effective May 2023.

Housez says that while he doesn’t feel Toronto needs to follow what New York City has done with outright bans, “I think that the City of Toronto needs to be more aggressive in enforcing their short-term rental regulations and toughen the penalties for non-compliance. Consistent enforcement should solve most of the problem.”

Sara Anghel, President and CEO of the Greater Toronto Hotel Association (GTHA), tells Travelweek how she recently outlined research for the Mayor and her executive committee showing the untapped potential in collecting MAT from short-term rentals. “The City we believe has underestimated the number of units that are being rented out,” says Anghel.

The GTHA notes that recent statistics from Inside Airbnb, a third-party website that tracks Airbnb listings, estimate that over half (53.6%) of Toronto’s listings are unregistered. “This creates an unfair environment where hotels are paying 100% of MAT, while a portion of [short-term rentals] are evading this requirement.”

The GTHA has called on the City of Toronto to invest more resources in compliance and enforcement, levy meaningful fines on short-term rental platforms for illegal listings and look at density-based caps on the number of listings per neighbourhood.

Travelweek reached out to Airbnb - just one of many short-term rental platforms, but no doubt the most visible - for its take.

Nathan Rotman, Policy Lead, Canada, Airbnb, says Airbnb has worked

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Write to Kathryn Folliott at kfolliott@travelweek.ca TRAVELWEEK

with lawmakers to address community concerns across Canada. “However, home-sharing regulations are not the solution to Canada’s housing crisis,” he says. “The reality is the majority of Airbnb Hosts in Canada [83%] share one home to supplement their income, and listings represent less than 1% of the country’s housing stock. Many Canadians earn extra income through home sharing to make ends meet at a time of increasing inflation, interest rates and cost of living.”

Rotman also noted that Airbnb is driving tourism outside tourism hubs, with nearly 50% of Canada home to Airbnb listings in areas that have no hotels.

He added: “Hosts pay taxes on the income they earn. Airbnb collected and remitted over Cdn$177 million in 2022 on behalf of Hosts, including nearly $70 million in GST in the last six months of the year. In Toronto, we collected over Cdn$7 million, an increase of approximately 170% from 2021.”

While hotels are pushing back against myriad rule-dodgers on the short-term rental front, some of the biggest names in the hospitality industry are at the same time taking an ‘if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em’ approach.

That increases an agent’s chances for commissionable opportunities.

Marriott, the biggest hotel company in the world, offers Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy. Another big player in the traditional hotel space, Accor, owns onefinestay.

And earlier this fall, Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced the launch of its brand new short-term vacation rental platform, Homes & Hideaways

by World of Hyatt, that will feature private homes and remote hideaways in the U.S.

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4 | TRAVELWEEK | November 30, 2023

Air Transat, Porter expand alliance with joint venture TORONTO — New alliances are taking shape in Canada’s increasingly competitive airline industry.

Air Transat and Porter Airlines have announced an expansion of their existing codesharing agreement, with the creation of a joint venture, “transforming the current Canadian aviation competitive landscape.”

The alliance expands services between North, Central and South America, Europe, North Africa, Mexico and the Caribbean, integrating what the carriers say are their highly complementary and non-overlapping networks at Toronto Pearson and Montreal Trudeau.

The feeder network strategy is designed to facilitate the acceleration of both airlines’ expansion in their respective markets: domestic and transborder short- and medium-haul for Porter, and international medium- and long-haul for Air Transat.

It will also foster stronger network optimization through collaboration on scheduling and route planning.

The carriers say their alliance will be gradually implemented throughout 2024.

“This historic agreement constitutes a significant step forward in executing Transat’s strategic plan and an important milestone in developing a more sustainable competitive network,” said Annick Guérard, President and CEO of Transat.

“As we continue receiving deliveries of up to 100 new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft, our options for deploying this fleet are even greater based on this collaboration with Air Transat,” said Michael Deluce, President and CEO of Porter.

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TOP NEWS

“We’re just getting started”: Interview with Porter Airlines EVP & CCO, Kevin Jackson

By Chris Kinasz

TORONTO — Porter Airlines is making the most of what it sees as a big opportunity in the market: travellers who are dissatisfied with economy class air travel.

Travelweek had the opportunity to sit down with Kevin Jackson, EVP & Chief Commercial Officer, to find out more.

Travelweek: Porter has been growing exponentially. Will that continue full throttle through 2024?

Jackson: “We currently have 23 Embraer E195-E2 jets and expect 50 by the end of 2024, so we’re just getting started. This year, 2023, was about launching an updated version of the Porter experience into the market and challenging the definition of economy air travel. Next year, 2024, is about building our network by increasing frequencies into existing markets in the west, building out the U.S. and adding more routes overall from places like Ottawa, Montreal and Halifax in the east.”

Travelweek: The fact that Porter’s ‘Actually Enjoy Economy’ approach is resonating with passengers, does that mean there was unmet demand for the kind of experience Porter offers?

Jackson: “We know from extensive market research that there’s a high level of dissatisfaction when travelling

in economy with other carriers. We also know Canadian economy travellers are eager for an alternative. What Porter offers is far superior to any other airline in North America. We are confident that when passengers have a choice, our reputation for service and the quality of our product will be key deciding factors for many economy travellers.”

Travelweek: How are bookings looking moving forward for the new Canada routes; Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton and Winnipeg?

Jackson: We’ve seen great demand and revenue records on the west coast markets. In the summer, we had 70 and 80% load factors. So far, we’re really pleased with what we’re seeing for fall and winter bookings.”

Travelweek: How is the outlook in Florida so far after the initial launch on the Tampa & Fort Myers routes?

Jackson: “We’re seeing very strong bookings across all of the Florida markets, and especially those from Ottawa. We have strong load factors from Canada to Florida during the holiday season and we’re working really hard to fill nonpeak flying. Canadians will always travel to Florida, and now they can choose to fly in an entirely new way with Porter.”

Travelweek: Why was Las Vegas the next logical destination for Porter?

TRAVEL AGENCIES ARE GROWING IN IMPORTANCE FOR PORTER 6 | TRAVELWEEK | November 30, 2023

KEVIN JACKSON, EVP AND CCO, PORTER AIRLINES

Jackson: “The next batch of destinations that we’ve announced are all in the western U.S. - Los Angeles, San Francisco and Las Vegas - and start in the first quarter of 2024. Overall, we’re prioritizing the top transborder markets and these cities all fall within this category.”

Travelweek: Can you remind us of what you do for travel agents who book their clients with Porter?

Jackson: “Travel agencies are growing in importance for Porter, as we enter markets beyond our traditional regional network in Eastern Canada and the U.S. They are often the first ones to tell potential customers about us in new markets and the share of travel agency revenue has increased by 10 points to 45% over the course of 2023. They also have a big role in key leisure markets like Florida and Vegas.

“We have a variety of commissionable products for registered Canadian agents. We offer 4% for the Flexible/ Freedom, 8% on Navigate and Ultimate fare classes, and 5% on the Porter Pass product, which is a bundled package of one-way pre-paid flights.

You can purchase 10 to 100 flights at a time, targeted to a route or region.

We also offer travel agents 5% commission on Porter Escapes packaged products.”

TOP NEWS

Cuba Tourist Board’s trade appreciation night shows why “unique is better than best”

By Chris Kinasz

TORONTO — At the Cuba Tourist

Board ‘Cuba Unica’ Trade Appreciation Night at Toronto’s Palais Royale event space, some 250 guests were in attendance for an evening of dinner and dancing.

Tour operators, hotel partners, travel advisors and media were also on hand as the destination recognized those who have gone above and beyond promoting the island.

Cuba is ‘Unica’ and, as Nieves Ricardo of the Cuba Tourist Board put it, “Cuba prefers to be unique and be different and stand out from the crowd.”

Lessner Gomez, director of the Cuba Tourist Board, explained, “Canadians are drawn by Cuba’s laidback charm, the friendliness of its people and its pristine beaches.”

Gomez reported that total arrivals to Cuba, this year up until October, reached 1,973,083 tourists from around the world, while the total number of Canadians was 748,976, representing 38% of the total arrivals to the country.

The goal for the Canadian market to end the year is to get close to one million visitors, which will mean an increase of almost 200% year over year.

The air capacity for this winter season has seen growth of 12%, with more than 5,000 flights to Cuba from 21 Canadian getaways, flying to the most popular destinations. Of note, Sunwing has new flights to Manzanillo and Cienfuegos.

Flights from Montreal to Havana are available with Transat. Discussions are underway with Canada Jetlines and WestJet in hopes of filling the desire to establish a Toronto-Havana flight.

There’s a slew of recent hotel openings across Cuba. In Cayo Paredon, there’s Gran Aston Cayo Paredon Hotel and, also, Vila Gale which is managed by a Portuguese hotel chain that’s new to Cuba.

In Cayo Cruz, clients can find Marina Plaza and Spa Hotel, which is not an all-inclusive hotel, but is ideal for long stays.

In Cayo Santa Maria, the One Gallery hotel aims to promote Cuban arts and culture, plus it boasts a strong entertainment program and facilities. The property is located next to the main stage in Cayo Santa Maria where nightlife activities and several major festivals take place.

In Holguin, Sol Turquesa Beach Hotel saw major renovations and is under new management by Melia Hotels.

In Havana, the Sevilla Hotel,

A STRONG TURNOUT AS TRAVEL ADVISORS GET ALL THE UPDATES FROM THE CUBA TOURIST BOARD

WELCOMING SMILES AT THE CUBA 'UNICA' INDUSTRY EVENT

affiliated to Melia Hotels, was completely upgraded.

In Trinidad, the most recent opening is the Melia Peninsula Trinidad hotel, an all-inclusive hotel located at Ancon Beach, just 20 minutes from the city of Trinidad, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most charming colonial towns in Cuba.

Additionally, Blue Diamond Resorts has added a new property to their portfolio in the Jibacoa area called Starfish Jibacoa. There’s a plethora of new hotel offerings for clients to discover while they unwind on a classic Cuban getaway.

To learn more about this unique destination, visit GoCuba.ca.

CUBA PREFERS TO BE DIFFERENT AND STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD November 30, 2023 | TRAVELWEEK | 7

WORLD NEWS

CRUISE

CELEBRATING THE COMPLETION OF ROYAL CARIBBEAN'S ICON OF THE SEAS

After seven years of planning and 900 days of design and construction, Royal Caribbean International has welcomed Icon of the Seas to its fleet. During a celebration at the Meyer Turku shipyard, Royal Caribbean representatives signed on the dotted line just two months before the new ship makes its January 2024 debut in Miami. During its construction, the Icon of the Seas celebrated several never-before-seen feats, including the installation of the AquaDome, the single-largest glass and steel structure to be lifted onto a cruise ship. It also engineered more water on board than ever before across seven pools, six record-breaking waterslides and more.

AIRLINES WestJet is celebrating a return to profit share, for the first time since the pandemic. WestJet Group CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech noted that profit share has been synonymous with the WestJet culture for 27 years. “The first three quarters of this year outpaced our earnings from pre-pandemic 2019 and I could not be prouder to celebrate and congratulate the team for the great work that led to a return to profit,” he said.

He remains “cautiously optimistic” on 2024: “The same uniquely Canadian cost challenges will continue, while the economy is weakening and higher interest rates are catching up to all of us, but we built considerable momentum as we head into the new year.”

LABOUR The union representing 2,100 flight attendants at Air Transat says workers have voted to approve a strike if they cannot reach a new contract with the airline. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) says the flight attendants voted 99.8% in favour of backing the mandate. Marie-Christine Pouliot, Transat’s Senior Advisor, Public Relations and Marketing Content, said negotiations with the flight attendants began last April and the parties have been in conciliation since October. “Obtaining a strike mandate by the union is a normal process when the parties are in conciliation and it does not necessarily mean that a strike will actually be declared,” said Pouliot. “We are hopeful of reaching an agreement.”

DESTINATIONS Florida has set a new record for number of visitors in the third quarter of a year. Between July and September 2023, the Sunshine State welcomed an estimated total of 35.1 million visitors. Visitation

included 32.2 million domestic visitors. 2.2 million overseas visitors, and 666,000 Canadian visitors.

In addition, Florida continues to beat overall annual visitation records with 105.2 million visitors so far in 2023, 724,000 more visitors than the first nine months of 2022. “VISIT FLORIDA’s efforts, in conjunction with local tourism partners, do more than spotlight the unparalleled beauty of the Sunshine State but have also fuelled a growth in visitation from global travellers,” said Dana Young, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA.

RETAILERS Flight Centre Travel Group recorded $6 billion in total transaction value in the company’s first quarter of 2023 (July - September 2023). “We’ve experienced unprecedented success in the first quarter, of FY24 at the Flight Centre Travel Group, with an incredible increase in profits compared to the same period last year,” said Chris Lynes, MD, Canada, FCTG. “This growth is undeniable proof of our resilience, vision, and dominant position within the Canadian corporate travel sector, particularly among startups and midsized enterprises (SMEs).”

NEWS

Canada Jetlines showcases winter routes at industry Open House

Copa Airlines to ramp up service to Panama from YYZ and YUL

MISSISSAUGA — More than two doz-

en destinations are under consideration for future flying, according to the team at Canada Jetlines.

Recently the airline hosted an Open House event at its new location on Airport Road to celebrate the airline’s winter schedule as well as answer questions, familiarize attendees with Canada Jetlines’ routes, and showcase the airline’s hospitality as a key differentiator as Canada Jetlines looks to soar above the competition.

Of course, there were prizes too.

“We’re not a low-cost carrier, we’re a leisure carrier, so service quality is pretty high and fares are super affordable,” explained Charlie McKee, Canada Jetlines’ Chief Commercial Officer.

Earlier this month Canada Jetlines launched Jetlines Vacations. “We’re understanding and reacting to where the market is going for travellers in general with this product, which is back to leisure market based. The venture into this area is meant to be very travel agent-friendly,” said Julie Rempel, Marketing Director.

The Jetlines Vacations product is launching with packages to Cancun and Montego Bay, with the inaugural flight to MoBay taking place Dec. 9. “We have our eye on a few destinations moving forward,” added Rempel.

Until Dec. 15, any travel agent who books a Jetlines Vacations product through Canada Jetlines will receive a $25 gift card of their choosing. This is in addition to the currently heightened 10% commission, which is available to agents until Jan. 31.

Jetlines also flies to Orlando and Las Vegas.

“We had a really strong summer with Cancun, which gives me encouragement to continue Montego Bay

CANADA JETLINES' CHARLIE MCKEE, CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER AND SANJAY KOPALKAR, DIRECTOR OF SALES & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

throughout the year. We have a list of 25 destinations that we’re considering for the future that we’re working through methodically to plan the network. When we get the Airbus A321s, which is our eventual plan, we’ll be able to go further afield. I’d like to be the first airline to fly from Toronto to the Canary Islands,” said McKee. “Momentum has been so positive.

There seems to be a desire to have and embrace a new carrier. We’re happy to be another opportunity for travellers and I cannot tell you how many positive comments we’ve received about our customer service experience onboard the flights, which shows our deep commitment to the customer,” said Rempel.

I CAN' T TELL YOU HOW MANY POSITIVE COMMENTS WE’ VE RECEIVED ABOUT OUR CUSTOMER SERVICE

TORONTO — Copa Airlines is increasing service from Montreal and Toronto to Panama.

The additional capacity builds upon the recent expansion of the international air transport agreement between Canada and Panama, contributing to the development and commercial exchange that will benefit both countries.

With the expanded agreement, passengers will enjoy more flight options and seamless connections to more than 60 destinations in Central America, South America and the Caribbean through Copa’s hub in Panama City.

Starting in March 2024, there’ll be additional weekly frequencies, which will increase again to daily service starting on May 20, 2024.

“Copa airlines is proud to be the leading Latin American carrier providing daily flights as we continue to fulfill our commitment to expanding flight options and enhancing travel experiences for our passengers,” said Laura Marin, Sales Manager of Copa Airlines in Canada.

“The daily service will allow our passengers to take advantage of the best connections to Latin America and the Caribbean. When visiting Panama, passengers can also enjoy two amazing destinations without incurring any additional airfare, through our Stopover Program in Panama,” added Marin.

Starting May 20, 2024, daily flights will depart from Toronto (YYZ) at 8:58 a.m., arriving in Panama at 1:38 p.m.

Return flight will depart Panama at 6:42 p.m. and arrive in Toronto at 1:17 a.m. the following day.

And starting May 21, 2024, daily flights will depart from Montreal (YUL) at 8:30 a.m., arriving in Panama at 1:24 p.m. The return flight will depart Panama at 5:56 a.m. and arrive in Montreal at 12:40 a.m. the following day.

November 30, 2023 | TRAVELWEEK | 9

NEWS

Three more TDC agencies now under the Marlin Travel banner MONTREAL — Three agency members of Transat Distribution Canada (TDC) are now under the Marlin Travel banner.

TDC says the experienced travel agency owners - Anita Spier, Yogesh Anand and John Fraser - “have witnessed the exceptional appeal of the Marlin Travel brand within the Canadian travel landscape.”

Spier says she was astounded by the sudden uptick in response from customers when she transitioned from her long-standing banner to the Marlin Travel brand. “Upon seeing the Marlin Travel banner, people would walk in and inquire if our agency had been there for a long time. It was as if they hadn’t noticed the presence of a travel agency all along. Notably, our previous banner attracted primarily local customers, but now, I’m noticing a growing influx of customers from beyond our immediate region.

To me, this is irrefutable evidence that the Marlin Travel brand is etched in

THE NEW MARLIN TRAVEL IN ST. ALBERT, AB

people’s minds; it’s a brand they recognize and, most importantly, trust, as it has been a steadfast presence for many years.”

Spier added: “This heightened visibility is not only evident on the streets but also online: since our brand change, website traffic, and bookings have been steadily increasing.” Spier introduced a second Marlin Travel branch in Fonthill, ON, last summer.

Anand, a 20-year agency owner with four travel agencies in Ontario, said the transition to the Marlin Travel brand was “exceptionally positive”.

“The Marlin Travel brand is a national symbol of recognition, and its physical and online presence distinguishes

AIR CANADA SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT ITS RAMPED UP ASIA ROUTES FROM VANCOUVER, BEGINNING MID-DECEMBER THROUGH TO THE END OF SUMMER 2024, WITH POP-UP FLOWER STANDS AT VANCOUVER’S PACIFIC CENTRE AND WATERFRONT STATION. THE AIRLINE INVITED PASSERSBY TO PICK UP A BOUQUET OF FRESH BLOOMS INSPIRED BY THE DESTINATIONS LAUNCHING FROM YVR NEXT SUMMER, INCLUDING HONG KONG, BANGKOK, SHANGHAI, SINGAPORE, OSAKA AND NARITA.

10 | TRAVELWEEK | November 30, 2023

us from other agency networks,” said Anand.

Meanwhile the proprietor of 11 Marlin Travel agencies in B.C., John Fraser, recently opened his 12th Marlin agency in St. Albert, AB, just outside of Edmonton. “I have been with Marlin Travel as a franchisee my entire 39 years in the travel industry. I have watched the company change and evolve over the years. To me, the people I have worked with and who have taught and supported our group are the backbone of our relationship with the Marlin Travel brand,” said Fraser.

TDC’s recently appointed Director of Franchisees and Affiliate Members for English Canada, Dianne Jackson, said: “As a franchisor, TDC is committed to providing unwavering support to its Marlin Travel agency owners on both B2B and B2C fronts. This includes exclusive and lucrative programs, as well as a multitude of impactful marketing initiatives, such as our recent campaign highlighting our 5-star advisors, all designed to ensure agency owners are well-equipped to run their businesses effectively and to maintain high consumer awareness.”

I HAVE WATCHED THE COMPANY EVOLVE

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NEWS

Wyndham Alltra Vallarta completes renovations FORT LAUDERDALE — Playa Hotels

& Resorts has completed renovations at the newly renamed Wyndham Alltra Vallarta in Nuevo Vallarta.

Formerly Wyndham Alltra Riviera Nayarit, the resort has upgraded 159 rooms including all Junior Suite Ocean View and Club Junior Suite Ocean View categories. Club level guests will also appreciate the new and improved Alltra VIP Club, which offers semi-private check-in and check-out service, concierge assistance, personalized cocktail service and more. In addition to access to Alltra VIP Club, club level guests can also expect upgraded minibars, in-suite Nespresso coffee makers and a complimentary hydrotherapy spa experience.

In addition to room upgrades, Wyndham Alltra Vallarta has enhanced its culinary offerings with five revamped dining venues ranging from local to international cuisine, all including in the room rate. For an authentic taste of Mexico, guests can visit Agave Bar, a brand new concept for the hotel and the first Mezcaleria in the Playa Hotels & Resorts portfolio.

Other enhancements were made to the hotel’s ballroom, ideal for weddings, conferences and other special occasions.

WYNDHAM ALLTRA VALLARTA

I AM PROUD TO INTRODUCE GUESTS TO A VARIETY OF UPGRADED AREAS “The enhancements of Wyndham Alltra Vallarta capture the vivid spirit of Mexico as well as the Wyndham Alltra brand. I am proud to introduce guests to a variety of upgraded areas to enjoy their vacations in the most carefree manner,” said Marco Guerrero, Wyndham Alltra Vallarta General Manager.

To celebrate the completed renovations, Wyndham Alltra Vallarta is offering an exclusive promotion that includes a 40% discount on bookings.

The offer is valid for stays through Dec. 20, 2024.

G Adventures “delighted” with India’s tourist visa news for Canadians

As reported last week, the electronic visa process is back in order, according to an Indian foreign ministry official.

“G Adventures is delighted to see the news that tourist visas for Canadians travelling to India have been restored,” said Green.

He added that while India “still has a long way to go to get back to pre-pandemic travel numbers, [it has] made great strides over the past year, with numbers in 2023 surpassing 2022 by 131%.

Green said G Adventures is “excited to be changing more lives through travel with our agency partners in this stunning and colourful destination once again.”

G Adventures’ Cyber Sale, announced earlier this month and running through Nov. 30, is the company’s biggest sale of the year. Travellers can save up to 30% off hundreds of trips, and Green said the “vast majority” of G Adventures’ India trips offer discounts as part of the sale.

TORONTO — David Green, Managing

Director for Canada, G Adventures, says G Adventures is “delighted” that e-visa services for Canadian nationals travelling to India have been restored.

Register now for Brand USA’s first-ever Canada MegaFam TORONTO — Brand USA is inviting Canadian travel advisors to sign up for its first-ever Canada MegaFam. Launched in partnership with Air Canada and United Airlines, the 2024 Brand USA Canada MegaFam will host 60 qualified advisors on six itineraries across the United States. The trips will depart on April 12, 2024 and arrive back in Canada on April 19, 2024.

12 | TRAVELWEEK | November 30, 2023

NEWS For a chance to participate, advisors will need to log their Air Canada bookings from Canada to the U.S. between now and Dec. 4, 2023, for travel between Oct. 22, 2023 and March 30, 2024. Additionally, they will need to complete key regional and specialist badges on Brand USA’s travel agent training tool, the USA Discovery Program.

To start logging your bookings and to complete an application, go to https://usadiscoveryprogram.com/ user/login.

Royal Caribbean unveils new Caribbean sailings for 2025-26 season

ROYAL CARIBBEAN'S ICON OF THE SEAS

The lineup’s highlights also include voyages in the western Caribbean on Harmony of the Seas, which will return to Royal Caribbean’s net-zero cruise terminal in Galveston, as well as Oasis in Fort Lauderdale, visiting the eastern, western and southern Caribbean. Adventure of the Seas from Orlando (Port Canaveral),

Independence of the Seas from Miami, Rhapsody from both Tampa and San Juan, and Grandeur of the Seas from Tampa round out the newly revealed vacations.

Six of the seven ships will visit Royal Caribbean’s private destinations, Perfect Day at CocoCay, The Bahamas and Labadee, Haiti.

MIAMI — Royal Caribbean has

opened its 2025-2026 Caribbean vacations, featuring a lineup of seven ships sailing from Florida, Texas and Puerto Rico to the tropics.

Cruisers can escape to the Caribbean and The Bahamas from six popular points throughout the year, including Miami where Icon of the Seas will return with 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean vacations.

CRUISERS CAN ESCAPE TO THE CARIBBEAN AND THE BAHAMAS FROM SIX POPULAR POINTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR WITH ROYAL CARIBBEAN

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November 30, 2023 | TRAVELWEEK | 13

NEWS

Direct Travel Canada hosts first Corporate Travel Symposium

AT DIRECT TRAVEL CANADA'S CORPORATE TRAVEL SYMPOSIUM, A TEAM-BUILDING EXERCISE CREATING A BEEHIVE FOR IMPACT4GOOD

TORONTO — Direct Travel Canada’s

corporate travel division’s first-ever corporate travel symposium took place recently in Fort Lauderdale.

Aimed at senior executives, managers and advisors, the event was designed as an opportunity to connect and learn about developments in corporate travel.

Direct Travel President Canada West, Brian Robertson, said: “Corporate client travel managers were also invited to partake in select sessions, giving them the chance to meet our team – in person for many for the first time.”

Direct, which has been in business for over 60 years in Canada, works with corporations of all sizes to develop a travel policy, provide reporting and analytics on their travel spend, and ensure risk management.

For year-end 2023, Direct Travel

Canada will once again surpass $1 billion in corporate, meetings and leisure sales.

A number of preferred partners took part in the symposium, including Air Canada, United Airlines, Hilton Worldwide, Enterprise Mobility, WestJet and Choice Hotels. Total attendance was 160+.

Joel Ostrov, President of les Services Direct Travel in Eastern Canada, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the company’s team members, corporate customers and preferred suppliers “who all made this such a milestone event.”

Topics up for discussion included elevating the customer experience,

VISIT FLORIDA HOSTED A GROUP OF CANADIAN TRAVEL ADVISORS DURING A RECENT FAM THAT INCLUDED SOME OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA’S TOP ATTRACTIONS. THE SIX-DAY TRIP WAS LED BY VISIT FLORIDA’S KELLI GODWIN AND LEA-ANN GOLTZ WHO WELCOMED ADVISORS FROM AMA, CAA, CENTRE HOLIDAYS, EXPEDIA CRUISES AND TRIPCENTRAL. CA. ACCOMMODATIONS WERE PROVIDED BY THE INN ON FIFTH NAPLES, LAPLAYA BEACH & GOLF RESORT NAPLES, WESTIN CAPE CORAL RESORT POSTCARD 14 |(PICTURED) TRAVELWEEK AND | November 30, 2023INN ON ST. PETE BEACH.

innovative technologies, AI and sustainability initiatives. Plus, as Robertson puts it, “what makes Direct Travel the TMC of choice for our corporate clients.”

MSC Cruises Canada launches new bilingual website TORONTO — MSC Cruises’ Canadian

website, msccruises.ca, is now available in both English and French.

The French site is designed to make booking a cruise onboard one of MSC Cruises’ ships more convenient for French-speaking Canadians across the country, with ship features, amenities, pricing, itineraries and more now available in French, says Ian Patterson, Country Manager, MSC Cruises Canada.

“As the only major cruise line with an office in Canada, making www. msccruises.ca/fr bilingual is part of our commitment to exceed guest expectations,” said Patterson. “As we continue to solidify our presence in the French speaking market, [this] announcement brings us one step closer to achieving that goal.”

MSC Cruises Canada also operates a bilingual call centre, groups and sales support for passengers and travel agents, to better serve both English- and French-speaking guests.

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WITH THIS WDW OFFER, CANADA RESIDENTS CAN BUY MORE DAYS FOR LESS

Walt Disney World launches Canada Resident offer ORLANDO — Walt Disney World has

launched a new Canada Resident offer that includes 20% off on 5-day or longer theme park tickets.

With this offer, Canada residents can buy more days for less – even during Canadian March Breaks. A 5-day base ticket is less than the price of a 4-day Non-discounted base ticket

during the offer period.

The offer is valid for ticket start dates as early as Jan. 11, 2024, and until Sept.

28, 2024. This is a date-based ticket that requires visitors to select a start date at purchase. The ticket is valid for admission beginning on the selected start date and must be used within a limited number of days, depending on ticket length and type.

Savings are based on the non-discounted price that a non-Canada resident pays for the same ticket. All ticket options are non-transferable and non-refundable, and exclude activities/events that are separately priced or not open to the general public. All

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16 | TRAVELWEEK | November 30, 2023

adults will need to show proof of Canada residency at Walt Disney World Resort theme park ticket windows prior to first use.

Guests can also choose a theme park ticket that includes the following options: Park Hopper Option; Water Park and Sports Option; and Park Hopper Plus Option.

Celebrity Cruises’ 2025-2026 includes Japan, Montenegro and more MIAMI — Celebrity Cruises has unveiled its 2025-2026 season of sailings, its most ambitious ever with more than 800 voyages to over 290

NEWS destinations in 72 countries.

The new summer and winter program includes the debut Caribbean season for Celebrity’s fifth Edge Series ship, Celebrity Xcel, along with new ports in Europe, year-round offerings in the Caribbean, and new experiences in 29 cities with single and double overnights.

“We’ve placed our incredible ships in every corner of the world for guests to experience iconic places, take a short break to rejuvenate or explore stunning cultural and historic landmarks. Our 2025-2026 season is filled with opportunities to experience multiple countries through our Caribbean and European programs, visit bucket list destinations with sailings like our immersive Japan program and more. Celebrity’s future vacation options are endless,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises.

Meanwhile Celebrity’s new Europe offerings feature six ships, including two Edge Series ships – Celebrity Ascent and Celebrity Apex – that will visit nearly 100 destinations with 48 overnight stays.

Plus, Celebrity will return to the Caribbean’s top destinations including Antigua, Bahamas and the ABC Islands. For Winter 2025-2026, the line will offer nine ships in the

region across four Florida ports. For the 2025-2026 Summer season, it will offer three ships in the region.

With the resurgence of Asia, guests have the opportunity to explore mustsee destinations with overnight stays in 11 different cities in the region, paired with elevated offerings onboard Celebrity’s two ships in the region – Celebrity Millennium and Celebrity Solstice.

And in Alaska, Celebrity will have three ships for the 2025-26 season with Celebrity Edge sailing from Seattle for its second summer season and joined in the region by Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Summit, both sailing from either Vancouver, Canada or Seward, Alaska.

Celebrity is also offering guests a unique way to explore Alaska, with a land-based Cruisetour experience, led by resident guides who are chosen for their connections to the local communities. Through the land tours, guests stay in authentic lodges and travel remote roads and railways in deluxe motor coaches and on a train with domed glass ceiling.

The tours offer guests the chance to experience Alaska’s diverse interior, including destinations like Anchorage, Talkeetna and Denali.

Back again for another year, Celebrity Edge will return to Australia

AIR CANADA AND ITS PARTNERS RECENTLY ATTENDED THE CANADIAN GAY & LESBIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (CGLCC) GALA, RECOGNIZING GRASSROOTS LGBTQ+ BUSINESSES. PICTURED HERE ARE MEMBERS OF THE AIR CANADA TEAM INCLUDING ERIC LAUZON AND THE VIENNA TOURIST BOARD /AMPM CANADA, HEADED UP BY ARMANDO MENDONCA.

and New Zealand with iconic sailings through Sydney Harbour or the majestic Fjords of New Zealand.

Returning to South America in 2025-26, Celebrity Equinox will sail from Buenos Aires, Argentina where guests can explore must-see destinations like Antarctica, Chile, Uruguay, and Falkland Islands.

Visit Orlando unveils online training platform in French ORLANDO — Visit Orlando has added French as a language on its e-learning platform for travel advisors.

The Orlando Travel Academy, the destination’s premier online training resource, launched in French on web and mobile devices, offering travel advisors more accessibility to hightech sales planning resources, including in-depth modules, webinars and training videos.

“This is the first time the Orlando Travel Academy has been available in French Canadian, signifying the importance of the Quebec province in our marketing and trade efforts,” said Casandra Matej, president & CEO of Visit Orlando. “Our one-stop online training tool allows travel advisors to learn more about all aspects of Orlando, from theme parks and water parks to our award-winning dining scene and unique local neighbourhoods.”

Orlando Travel Academy graduates also gain access to exclusive offers upon completion of the program.

Designated Certified Orlando Experts can take advantage of up to 20 offers ranging from complimentary attractions tickets to airline perks.

To access the platform go to orlando travelacademy.com.

November 30, 2023 | TRAVELWEEK | 17

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Turks and Caicos welcomes over one million visitors so far in 2023 TORONTO — The Turks and Caicos Islands is having a stellar year, welcoming over a million visitors by air and cruise.

From January to October 2023, the destination saw 535,893 visitors arrive by air and 677,943 via cruise.

The air arrivals for January to October 2023 represent a 4.8% increase over 2022, which saw 511,132 air arrivals in the same period. The air arrivals also represent an 18% increase over the 2019 figure of 450,443 arrivals for the same period. The cruise arrivals of 677,943 mark a 30.5 percent increase over the period in 2022

which saw 519,418 cruise passengers.

The U.S. remains the leading source market with 434,343 arrivals from January to October. There were 35,606 arrivals from Canada. There were 8,541 arrivals from the UK, versus 2022 for the same period January to August 2023. The addition of Virgin Atlantic Airways, from London, Heathrow, increases the ease of travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands from the UK and Europe, with twice weekly, nonstop flights.

“We are very pleased to see the increased number of visitors to the Turks and Caicos Islands by air and cruise for 2023,” said Minister of Tourism Josephine Connolly. “The Turks

and Caicos Islands is renowned for its pristine turquoise waters and white sand beaches, world-class resorts and villas, culinary diversity, cultural experiences and natural beauty, ‘Beauty

By Nature.’ The increased visitation demonstrates the Turks and Caicos Islands’ appeal for barefoot luxury and unique experiences.”

The Minister also noted that the destination is diversifying the product experience and “encouraging our visitors to experience the culture, heritage and activities for day tours and/ or overnight stay beyond Providenciales in the Turks and Caicos.”

THERE WERE 35,606 ARRIVALS FROM CANADA TO TURKS & CAICOS

November 30, 2023 | TRAVELWEEK | 19

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Key renovation updates from Palladium Hotel Group for 2024 TORONTO — Palladium Hotel Group

has several renovation updates for 2023-2024 that promise to make the guest experience all the more immersive and enchanting for guests.

Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort & Spa, which is reopening in December 2023, will debut Family Selection in Riviera Maya. Upon opening, there will be three Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts featuring Family Selection, an exclusive accommodation concept for families with personal stewardship, which until now was only available at Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa and Grand Palladium Vallarta Resort & Spa. With this new opening in Riviera Maya, Family Selection will add 169 suites to the 95 already existing in Vallarta and the 180 in Costa Mujeres, for a total of 471 suites operated under the Family Selection concept. These unique spaces are designed with families in mind, with special amenities, exclusive areas, personalized attention and activities for adults and children.

Coming soon to Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts, the Bravo Dinner & Dance Experience is an immersive

event that includes delectable cuisine and entertainment for families. From stunning dance routines to impressive displays of acrobatics and aerial artistry, the entertainment lineup will leave spectators in awe. Kids can also enjoy Le Petit Chef, an interactive dining experience at Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa that stars an animated character, a seven-yearold cook hailing from Marseille.

These new updates come on the heels of a multi-million-dollar refurbishment of Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa in Montego Bay earlier this year. An investment valued at US$27.5 million, the project included the refurbishment of 537 suites as well as various common areas like the lobby, the MoBay show-cooking restaurant, which boasts two new food stations, and the Infinity Saloon

Bar, now featuring elegant awnings and lounge-style furniture.

Among the newly refurbished suites are two new categories: 40 Superior Junior Suite Private Pool Ocean View rooms, and 8 Superior Suite Private Pool Oceanfront View rooms. Surrounded by vegetation, these swimup suites offer a private pool and terrace, which are fully equipped with seating and a wooden pergola. Inside each of the 537 suites, guests can enjoy new modern furniture and bathrooms with a hydromassage bathtub and shower, with some rooms featuring open bathrooms centered by the bathtub.

For more information about Palladium Hotel Group go to palladiumhotelgroup.en.

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November 30, 2023 | TRAVELWEEK | 21

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