Changing travel plans bring challenges for Canada’s airlines
Virtuoso advisors report strong demand from high-end clientele
U.S.-based host agency Fora Travel launches in Ontario
Trade war turbulence has aviation expert talking price war, capacity redeployment for Canada’s airlines
BY KATHRYN FOLLIOTT
TORONTO Aircraft can’t turn on a dime - and neither can an airline.
And yet that’s essentially what Canada’s carriers are having to do these days, as declining demand for U.S. destinations impacts long-planned spring and summer schedules.
Earlier this month Air Canada said its drop in cross-border flight bookings for the next six months was comparable to an industry-wide drop of about 10%. On its Q4 and FY 2024 earnings call, the airline noted “redeployment opportunity, if required” in sun markets. Last month came reports of reduced service from YVR on three U.S. routes: IAD, IAH and MIA.
WestJet has cut back on its KelownaSeattle flights, and cut short its Kelowna-Las Vegas service. Other carriers (like Porter) have said
they’re reining in marketing for U.S. destinations. A report in The New York Times, citing data from Visual Approach Analytics, notes that seat reductions on cross-border routes range from 7% by Air Canada to 25% by Flair Airlines.
Looking ahead to winter 20252026, Flair has said cross-border trips will comprise 12% of its network, down from 20%.
“MAINTAINING A BRAVE FACE”
Amid the trade war turbulence, and with high season on the horizon, Canada’s airlines are working hard to stay on course, so far with just minor adjustments. But what’s
next? It’s no COVID-19, but these are unprecedented times nevertheless.
“Uncertainty in the air travel market is definitely hampering the decision-making process of Canadian commercial air carriers,” aviation industry analyst John Gradek told Travelweek. “We’ve read snippets of information from reputable sources about the softening of U.S. transborder demand over the past several weeks, and how such drops have yet to permeate carrier capacity plans through the spring and summer months. Pundits have observed a limited number of sources of forward-looking travel data, resulting in lingering questioning of carriers’ transborder capacity and the lack of initiatives reflective of this demand drop-off.”
So far carriers have pulled back on the fringes of transborder capacity, said Gradek, “closing down the tagends of select winter programs in secondary markets as well as reducing frequencies on off-peak travel days. Low-cost carriers have even gone so far as to remove U.S. destinations from the operating plan, deciding to refocus their spring / summer initiatives on the Canadian domestic market.”
MARGINAL ROUTE SUSPENSIONS, AIRCRAFT DOWNGAUGING, REDUCED FREQUENCIES –ALL ARE OPTIONS ON THE TABLE
He added: “We have Canadian carriers such as Porter continuing to expand their North American fleet and maintaining their launch of new U.S. city-pair services. Air Canada and WestJet have maintained a brave face despite the shouts of gloom and doom on transborder routes.”
The latest cross-border travel data highlights the downward slide, with Canadian-resident return trips by car down 32% YOY, and air travel down 13.5%, according to StatCan’s numbers.
How easy is it for airlines to make sudden changes to capacity? Gradek said that for airlines the size of Air Canada and WestJet, “it’s relatively easy on their established routes. On new services, it’s a little more difficult as you would have to consider route startup costs and the costs of suspending such services.”
PRICE WAR SPURRED BY MORE DOMESTIC CAPACITY?
Gradek said the real question is what airlines would do with all the capacity freed up by transborder route / frequency reductions. “Many such routes are being flown by narrowbodied aircraft which have very little alternate use other than on other North American services. So, if not the U.S., then it’s a Canadian redeployment, increasing capacity in a already saturated market, putting pressure on airport slot availabilities in Toronto and Montreal, and creating
a higher probability of significant pricing action to fill this new capacity,” he said.
In other words, a price war, one that Canadians would no doubt welcome for sky-high domestic fares.
Already airlines are making moves. On April 22 WestJet announced an expansion of its domestic network, with new nonstop service between Halifax and three Canadian cities for the summer: Saskatoon, Regina and Vancouver. WestJet also announced new flights between Winnipeg and St. John’s for summer, plus increased frequency on Halifax routes from Winnipeg and Edmonton, as well as between Calgary and Deer Lake.
Gradek predicts a transborder traffic demand drop in the 20% to 30% range over the next few months, “possibly reaching 30% to 40% in the peak summer travel months. And that ought to bring the financial considerations into play, with further capacity cuts becoming inevitable. Marginal route suspensions, aircraft downgauging, reducing day-of-week frequencies – all are options on the table.”
“CANCELLATIONS AREN’T LOVED BY THE REGULATORS”
As Gradek noted, carriers don’t like to disclose future booking levels. “And flight cancellations are not loved by the regulators, with the APPRs (Air Passenger Protection
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Regulations) kicking in penalties if these cancellations are declared close to departure times. Carriers will be walking a fine line in adjusting capacity, but they cannot afford to operate flights much under their breakeven load factors for too long.”
The dilemma is one that faces any carrier making unexpected cuts: “If capacity reductions are announced too quickly, could that be interpreted as a sign of brand weakness, or a true market drop? If the reductions are delayed, how are the existing advanced bookings to be handled?”
As bookings for summer travel kick into high gear, airlines could find themselves between a rock and a hard place. “The risk of publishing an operating schedule that hasn’t got much chance of being flown is not acceptable,” said Gradek. “Do the [airlines] have the aircraft capacity to continue on the published transborder schedules as well as increase their domestic services? I’m guessing that they do not.”
He said that while domestic tourism is forecast to increase as transborder demand drops, “there are major infrastructure limits at Canadian airports that will come into play.”
Gradek added: “I’m thinking carriers are betting on a significant drop in fuel prices to help them through this summer’s operations. Time will tell.”
FUTURE OF TRAVEL: PROUDLY CANADIAN
MAY 7th
1-3 PM EST
On Travel Agent Appreciation Day, let's celebrate our gratitude both for travel advisors and the beautiful country of Canada. Discover the latest trends, products, and destinations while gaining valuable insights from industry executives. Plus, agents will have the chance to win exciting prizes!
Wendy Paradis & Avery Campbell ACTA
Bruce Poon Tip CEO and Founder, G Adventures
Colin C. James Chief Executive Officer, Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority
Christian Leibl Cote EVP of Global Sales, Collette Stephen Cotter Managing Director, CIE Tours
Armando Mendonca AMpm Canada President, Vienna Tourist Board
Updates from Globus, G Adventures, Visit Atlantic City, Quark Expeditions, Myrtle Beach, Railbookers, Riverside Luxury Cruises, Jamaica, Nassau Paradise Island & Spectacular NWT.
“We’re busier than ever”:
Trade war’s impact on luxury travel demand waning, say Virtuoso advisors
BY KATHRYN FOLLIOTT
TORONTO — When high-end clients want to travel, they’re going to travel – no matter the political situation, or even economic concerns.
According to a panel of luxury travel retailers taking part in a recent Virtuoso press conference, while sales may have dipped for a brief time after a roaring start to the year, bookings are back, big time.
“They’re continuing to prioritize travel. They’re going. I haven’t even really seen a slowdown. As a company we’re busier than ever,” said Catherine Davis with Zebrano Travel.
She added: “The ultra-luxe traveller is maybe better with uncertainty. They’re also less price sensitive.”
Susan Lawson, Director of Engagement, Trevello Travel Group, estimates a 10% jump in sales year over year. “Clients are shifting [destinations] rather than cancelling.
The trade war’s impact on travel was top of mind for yesterday’s panel discussion, addressed right off the bat as “the elephant in the
room,” in the words of moderator Ùna O’Leary, Virtuoso’s GM, Canada. The event took place at The RitzCarlton, Toronto.
Meredith Burbidge, Leisure Client Engagement, Direct Travel, said all the trade war and tariff talk did cause bookings to plateau for a bit, “but that’s already starting to wane. Clients are still travelling, they’re just making different choices.”
Karen Marquardt Wyers, a travel advisor with TTI Travel, said the
THEY’RE CONTINUING TO PRIORITIZE TRAVEL. THEY’RE GOING. I HAVEN’T EVEN REALLY SEEN A SLOWDOWN
importance of those choices has put travel advisors in the spotlight now more than ever: “You really become that advisor and collaborator. It’s a partnership.”
As Davis put it, when asked for her words of wisdom when navigating travel decisions in these roller coaster times, “it’s vital to use a travel agent. That’s our job, we love it, and we’re good at it.”
Davis added that she’s booking more travel insurance than ever, a widespread trend in the industry these days.
The panel also had advice for travel advisors tempted to vent their trade war frustration with inflammatory rhetoric on social media. “This is all going to end and we’re all going to
Direct Travel’s Meredith Burbidge; Catherine Davis with Zebrano Travel; Trevello’s Susan Lawson; and Karen Marquardt Wyers with TTI Travel
come out the other side. We need to maintain those relationships with our friends and neighbours on the other side of the border.”
Top choices for trending travel destinations, according to the panel, include Switzerland, Tasmania and Bhutan.
CANADA’S BOOKING WINDOW: 105 DAYS, ACCORDING TO VIRTUOSO DATA
Ahead of yesterday’s panel discussion, O’Leary shared more trending destinations gathered from Virtuoso’s network-wide analytics.
The luxury travel network is seeing a “huge return” to Asia, with Tokyo up 116%, and Bhutan up 196%. Cooler vacation spots are still going strong, like Courchevel (up 132%) and Vald’Isere (up 457%).
Bookings for the UK countryside, no doubt fuelled by screen tourism for shows like Bridgerton and Downton Abbey, is up 173%. Other big winners include the Athenian Riviera (up 132%), Sicily (up 135%) and Malta (up 140%).
From the Canadian market specifically, O’Leary cited trends including Ice-olated Escapes, Sailing Solo, Born to be Mild (for the very
soft adventure crowd), You Tell Me Travel (word of mouth is as influential as ever), and Palate & Place for the foodies.
The top motivator for Canada’s highend travel centres on milestone celebrations, with escaping winter weather, exploring new destinations, spending time with loved ones and good ol’ R&R rounding out the top five.
Also specific to the Canadian market, destinations on the rise include Portugal, Antarctica, Costa Rica, Iceland and Colombia. Top city picks are Lisbon, Barcelona, Paris, Rome and Tokyo.
Panelist Marquardt Wyers noted that before all the trade war talk put a crimp in travel’s momentum, her clients were looking at spring 2025 travel plans back in fall 2024. Many of the panelists spoke of trip planning as akin to investment planning, suggesting that some clients do best with multi-year future travel plans. Clients looking to avoid the hubbub of Rome’s Jubilee celebrations this year, for example, might decide to save that city for 2026, and travel somewhere else this year.
Virtuoso’s data shows that Canada’s average booking window is 105 days. That’s a bit shorter than the global average of 125 days in 2024 (up from 118 days in 2023).
Global sales for Virtuoso were up 22.4% in 2024, and global future leisure sales were up 33%. Future cruise bookings were up 49% YOY in 2024, with a 26% increase for ocean cruising, 31% for river, 76% for yacht cruising and 35% for expedition cruising.
Virtuosos’s Canadian footprint has grown to 27 agencies with a total of 1,435 travel advisors (54% ICs, 46% full-time employees).
Ùna O’Leary, Virtuoso’s GM, Canada and Ryan Fraser, Sr. Marketing Manager, Virtuoso Canada
Virtuoso’s Toronto press conference featured a panel of luxury travel advisors and agency reps
AIRLINES
Air Canada will become the launch customer for the new Airbus Airspace cabin on the A220 family of aircraft, providing customers with increased overhead storage space. The first aircraft featuring the new cabin are expected to be delivered in early 2026. The A220 Airspace cabin introduces new XL bins, boosting overhead bag capacity by more than 15%. It also includes redesigned ceiling and upgraded lighting. The debut of the new cabin coincides with other enhancements to Air Canada’s A220s, including refreshed cabin interiors.
Delta Air Lines pulled its guidance for 2025 as the trade war scrambles expectations for business and household spending. “With broad economic uncertainty around global trade, growth has largely stalled,” said CEO Ed Bastian. “In this slower-growth environment, we are protecting margins and cash flow by focusing on what we can control. This includes reducing planned capacity growth in the second half of the year to flat over last year while actively managing costs and capital expenditures.”
THEME PARKS
Universal has chosen the homeland of Harry Potter to build its first theme park and resort in Europe. The studio and theme park operator that has drawn millions to its Potterthemed wizarding worlds and other attractions said it would begin construction next year just beyond the outskirts of London. Construction on the park is expected to be completed by 2031, about 80 kilometres north of London. The Universal resort, initially expected to include a 500-room hotel, will be near a major rail line and Luton Airport.
CRUISE
Carnival Cruise Line has marked the official start of construction on its newest ship, Carnival Festivale. Once completed, the ship will become the fourth in Carnival’s Excel class, powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). Weighing in at 180,000 gross tons, the ship will accommodate up to 6,400 guests. A new outdoor area, Sunsation Point, will span the top three decks with family entertainment. The highlight of Sunsation Point will be Carnival Waterworks Ultra, promoted as the most family-friendly water park at sea.
Delta Air Lines A330 aircraft
Air Canada’s new A220 Airspace cabin with XL bins
Host agency Fora Travel enters Ontario market
TORONTO U.S.-based host agency Fora Travel has entered the Ontario market, with plans to expand across Canada in the coming weeks.
The company issued an update noting that it is now TICO-registered to operate in Ontario.
Fora was founded in 2021 in New York City. Since its launch the host agency says it has more than one million room nights at 170,000+ hotels.
The annual membership fee is $399. Agents get access to Fora’s Advisor Portal, training programs, content and marketing tools, commission payments and an online forum.
The host agency also says it will soon offer a free prep program to “streamline the process” of completing TICO’s Education Standards Exam.
“At its core, Fora was built to fix what’s broken in travel advising –outdated systems, high barriers to entry, and poor advisor support,” says Henley Vazquez, co-founder and CEO of Fora Travel. “We created a model where technology amplifies human expertise, not replaces it. With our Canadian launch, we’re excited to open the door for more entrepreneurs to thrive in this incredible industry and help grow more small Canadian businesses.”
Vazquez adds that Fora has been recognized as a top growth agency by Virtuoso, IHG, Small Luxury Hotels of the World and more.
AmaWaterways makes history with new sailings in Colombia
CALABASAS AmaWaterways has officially launched AmaMagdalena, the first luxury river cruise ship to navigate Colombia’s Magdalena River.
The historic sailing marked a milestone for the company and a major development for tourism in the region.
The addition also expands AmaWaterways’ global offerings beyond Europe, Asia and Africa.
“Our expansion into Colombia represents a new chapter for AmaWaterways and for the world of river cruising,” said Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and CEO of AmaWaterways.
“We are proud to be the first major river cruise line to explore the Magdalena River, a region that until now has been largely inaccessible. AmaMagdalena opens the door to a culturally rich destination, and we’ve worked closely with local communities to ensure our presence benefits everyone involved – from our guests to the people who call this river home.”
Carrying just 60 guests, AmaMagdalena features a Sun Deck pool, a spacious fitness room, a Main Restaurant featuring regionally inspired Latin American cuisine alongside Western favourites, and an intimate al fresco specialty dining venue.
Stateroom interiors range from 237 to 516 square feet and feature the company’s signature twin-balcony design.
Two immersive seven-night itineraries – ‘Magic of Colombia’ and ‘Wonders of Colombia’ – sail between Cartagena and Barranquilla, offering experiences such as a private celebration of the Barranquilla Carnival, a guided heritage tour and exclusive jazz performance in UNESCOdesignated Mompox, birdwatching excursions and a musical and historical exploration of Palenque, the first free town in the Americas.
Optional pre-and post-cruise land packages are available in Medellín, Cartagena, and Panama City.
Later this year AmaWaterways is set to launch a second ship on the Magdalena River, AmaMelodia, further expanding its presence in Colombia.
AmaMagdalena sets sail on Colombia’s Magdalena River
“Nothing short of remarkable”: JTB celebrates 70 years
TORONTO The Jamaica Tourist Board recently marked a milestone: 70 years of showcasing Jamaica’s beauty and long-standing success to the world.
Angella Bennett, the JTB’s Regional Director for Canada, extended “a taste of Jamaican warmth and hospitality” to the recent Toronto festivities. She shared some interesting insights, including stopover arrivals of around 100,000 per year in the 1950s, to the current tally of several million arrivals annually.
”Our evolution has been nothing short of remarkable,” said Bennett.
CANADA TOPS THE MARKET
Over the years, Canada has consistently ranked among the top three markets for Jamaica, holding “a special place in this journey,” as Bennett pointed out. She’s been at the helm in Canada since 2019.
Toronto has been part of that journey, as one of the original three JTB offices alongside New York and Miami.
In 2024, Canadian arrivals topped 400,000, an increase of over 6%. Ontario continues to drive the most significant numbers in the Canadian market, with over 277,000 annually.
Also worth noting is the outstanding growth from the Quebec market, which saw an increase of 23% in the past year alone, bringing nearly 60,000 visitors to the island. More exciting developments are on the horizon as Sunwing plans to expand its route from Quebec City to Montego Bay next winter, enhancing connectivity with the francophone market.
Donovan White, Director of Tourism for the JTB, travelled from Kingston, Jamaica for the Toronto event.
According to White, Canadian visitors have “consistently been among the most loyal travellers to Jamaica,” delivering a 42% return rate.
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
Jamaica’s tourism sector has been the fastest-growing industry and the largest employer in the country for the past 33 years. In fact, over 26% of the population is employed in this sector.
“The numbers don’t lie,” White emphasized, highlighting
CANADIAN VISITORS
HAVE CONSISTENTLY BEEN AMONG THE MOST
LOYAL
TRAVELLERS TO JAMAICA
record-breaking figures and annual earnings exceeding $4.3 billion.
White also acknowledged that Jamaica’s success would not have been possible without the dedicated professionals and visionaries at the Ministry of Tourism, who attributed and shaped their legacy through the years and the 200 members of the JTB team spread globally.
“It’s an incredible team that I am fortunate to lead, and I take this role very seriously,” said White.
As Jamaica continues its quest to “move up the ladder,” the country remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainability that will benefit both visitors and locals, and looks to grow in innovation and inclusivity.
The focus will expand beyond Jamaica’s renowned beaches to showcase the rich culture, heritage, diverse landscapes, and authentic experiences that flourish on the tropical island.
Looking ahead, White expressed confidence in Canada and the JTB’s plans, including expanding connectivity between the two countries and aiming to increase visitor numbers to 500,000 by winter 2027.
Jamaica has grown from 100,000 annual arrivals in the 1950s, to the current tally of several million
Travel agencies, advisors eligible for tax relief: ACTA
TORONTO Travel agencies and independent travel advisors are among those eligible for temporary financial relief amid the tariff war, says ACTA.
The association has confirmed that effective from April 2 until June 30, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will defer GST/HST remittances and corporate income tax payments as part of new measures designed to assist workers and businesses – including travel agencies and independent travel advisors –impacted by recent tariffs.
In addition, the CRA will waive interest on GST/HST and corporate income tax (T2) instalments and arrears payments scheduled between April 2 and June 30, and provide interest relief on existing GST/HST and T2 balances for this same period.
Interest charges will resume on July 1.
Travel agencies and advisors are being reminded that they must continue to file their GST/HST and T2 returns by the established deadlines to ensure compliance with all filing requirements.
St. Kitts extends SKY agent program for 2025
BASSETTERE The St. Kitts Tourism Authority has announced the continuation of its St. Kitts Yourway (SKY) Travel Agent Program, running from May 1 to Dec. 15.
Designed exclusively for travel agents, the SKY program offers special discounts and rates on accommodations and experiences across the island.
Agents participating in the program have the opportunity to earn quarterly rewards, with a US$1,000 prize awarded to the agent who secures the highest number of bookings each quarter.
In addition to rewards, the program encourages agents to experience St. Kitts firsthand, enhancing their ability to promote the destination to clients.
T2
“We are thrilled to continue the SKY Travel Agent Program, reinforcing our commitment to strong partnerships with travel agents,” said Minister of Tourism Marsha T. Henderson.
“This program offers more than just exclusive rates and benefits –it provides agents with firsthand experiences that allow them to truly connect with the beauty and culture of St. Kitts. By immersing themselves in the destination, agents will be better equipped and inspired to share its unique charm with their clients.”
During the ‘Kittitian Explorer’ months, agents can book directly with participating properties to access the following special rates:
Travel agents taking part in the SKY program will also have access to: site inspections and island tours (available upon request through a form on
the St. Kitts Tourism Authority’s website, subject to availability); and a Value Card offering discounts on gift shops, restaurants, and more.
To participate in the SKY program, North American travel agents must complete the destination specialist program at visitstkitts.com/ travel-professionals/us-canadaagents and log their bookings at visitstkitts.com/travel-professionals/ log-your-bookings at time of booking.
Discover Airlines launches direct Calgary-Munich flights
CALGARY Discover Airlines has added Calgary to its growing longhaul network from Munich Airport.
The airline, a subsidiary of Lufthansa, will operate flights from Munich to Calgary three times weekly, departing at 1:25 p.m.
Calgary joins Orlando and Windhoek as part of a trio of recent longhaul route launches from Discover Airlines’ Munich hub. All three routes are served by Airbus A330 aircraft.
The airline’s fleet of eight aircraft now services 32 holiday destinations, with a total of 80 weekly departures across short-, medium- and long-haul routes.
Streamlined entry, exit system for Antigua and Barbuda
ST. JOHN’S Antigua and Barbuda has launched a new and modern arrival and departure system designed for travellers using V.C. Bird International Airport.
The launch of ArriveAntigua.com was developed by the Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation, and Investment, in collaboration with the Antigua Department of Immigration and the Antigua and Barbuda Customs and Excise Division.
No app download is required. Travellers can quickly complete the online form using their mobile or tablet devices. By simply taking a photo of their passport, visitors allow the system to automatically populate personal details, simplifying the process.
Within 72 hours of their scheduled flight, travellers answer a few brief questions about their stay and customs declarations. Upon completion, travellers receive a QR code, which can be saved via screenshot, added to an iPhone Wallet, or accessed through email confirmation. This QR code expedites processing at Immigration and Customs.
THE LUFTHANSA SUBSIDIARY
“We are committed to continuously improving the visitor experience in Antigua and Barbuda. The launch of ArriveAntigua.com is a major step in creating a smooth and seamless experience from the moment visitors arrive, allowing travellers to spend less time in the terminal and more time enjoying our 365 stunning beaches,” said Charles Fernandez, Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Transportation.
The fully integrated, electronic system significantly enhances convenience and efficiency for visitors, he added.
The new system will soon expand to include seaport arrivals and private jet passengers at Fixed Base Operators (FBO) across Antigua and Barbuda.
Travellers to Antigua and Barbuda are encouraged to complete the online form at ArriveAntigua.com. Take note, the form can only be accessed on personal mobile devices or tablets (i.e. not on desktop computers).
G Adventures rolls out new Rail Collection
TORONTO G Adventures has launched its Rail Collection, a curated lineup of 60 train-based adventures across 20 countries.
Designed to showcase the journey as much as the destination, the Rail Collection blends iconic rail routes with off-the-beaten-path experiences.
The new trips span a variety of G Adventures’ travel styles, from Soloish to Geluxe, catering to travellers looking for either affordability or upgraded comfort – all while enjoying the slower, more connected pace of rail travel.
“Rail travel can be so much more than just a mode of transportation; it’s a gateway into responsible cultural exploration, where the journey is just as enjoyable as the destination,” said Yves Marceau, VP Product, G Adventures.
“Travellers want the thrill of adventure without the stress of
planning every detail, the freedom to explore without the hassle of airports, and a journey that feels as immersive as the places they visit.
We’ve picked 60 fantastic trips from across G Adventures’ travel styles that really celebrate the different experiences available through train travel; from high-tech commuter trains in Japan, to sleeper trains in Vietnam,” he added.
The small-group trips are designed to cut down on carbon emissions by reducing flights, while opening doors to communities often bypassed by traditional travel routes. Trains stop at smaller stations and hubs, giving travellers the chance to support local vendors and soak up life in lessvisited regions.
The Rail Collection is now available to book.
Apply now for ACTA’s Destination Experience in Jamaica
TORONTO ACTA has partnered with the Jamaica Tourist Board, Air Canada and Sandals Resorts to launch a new Destination Experience in Jamaica.
Taking place Aug. 23-27, the event includes return air from Toronto, single
accommodation at Sandals
Dunn’s River Jamaica, destination presentations, product updates, offsite excursions with Sandals Resort International, an optional sunrise hike and birdwatching, and a farewell reception and dinner.
The cost to participate is $849.99. The deadline to apply is May 16.
“The Jamaica Tourist Board is celebrating its 70 th anniversary in Canada this year and we cannot think of a better way to celebrate with them than to offer this ACTA Immersive Destination Experience in Jamaica,” said Wendy Paradis, ACTA President.
Destination Experiences are accredited under ACTA’s Continuing Education (CE) program. Travel advisors who attend the Destination Experience will be eligible to receive CE credits, which can be applied to obtaining or maintaining the professional designation of Certified Travel Consultant (CTC) or Certified Travel Manager (CTM).
IT’S THE FREEDOM TO EXPLORE WITHOUT THE HASSLE OF AIRPORTS. IT’S AN IMMERSIVE JOURNEY
The Jamaica event is in addition to ACTA’s sold-out Christmas Market River Cruise Summit, hosted in partnership with Avalon Waterways and taking place this November.
Travelling by rail with G Adventures in Cinque Terre, Italy
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SLH kicks off 2025 with 25 new luxury properties worldwide
TORONTO Small Luxury Hotels of the World is off to a strong start this year, adding 25 new boutique properties to its curated global portfolio in Q1 alone.
The new signings build on the brand’s record-breaking momentum from 2024, when it welcomed 82 new hotels. SLH now boasts over 620 properties in 90+ countries, each with its own distinct personality and independently minded charm.
“The demand for authentic, intimate luxury experiences continues to soar,” said Richard Hyde, Chief Operating Officer, SLH. “We are excited to build on the successes of a recordbreaking 2024 and are committed to introducing thoughtfully selected luxury boutique properties to our discerning guests.”
From heritage hideaways in Europe to beachside escapes in Asia, here’s a look at some of the standout additions for travel advisors to have on their radar …
NEW OPENINGS: FROM MUNICH TO THE MALDIVES
This year’s highlights include Münchner Kindl – House of Hütter,
SLH’s first property in Munich. This bold 18th-century townhouse blends Bavarian elegance with flamboyant interiors and offers 10 apartmentstyle suites and six luxury rooms.
In Rome, the striking ROMEO Roma, designed by Zaha Hadid, opened in January just steps from the Piazza del Popolo. Meanwhile, May will see the debut of Villa Haven Resort Maldives, a nature-inspired retreat offering 73 keys in a serene, tropical setting.
NEW DESTINATIONS ON THE MAP
SLH continues to break new ground with entries in Latvia, the U.S., and Spain.
The Grand Palace Hotel in Riga, housed in a 19th-century bank, combines heritage luxury with Michelin-recognized cuisine.
In Massachusetts, SLH adds its first Cape Cod property: The Mansion at Ocean Edge Resort, a beachfront resort with pools, spa, private oyster tastings and more.
Spain’s Hotel Palau Fugit in Girona also joins the roster—a restored 18th-century palace in the heart of the Old Quarter.
UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE HIGHLIGHTS
Several new properties are set within UNESCO-designated locations. Hotel Urban Madrid is a modern culinary
hub, home to Michelin-starred CEBO. In Warsaw, Nobu Hotel Warsaw merges minimalist design with the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Other standouts include Schlossle Hotel in Tallinn’s Old Town, Bordeaux’s YNDO Hotel in a 19thcentury mansion, and Sant’Angelo Matera – a deeply immersive stay in one of Italy’s most historic cities.
COASTAL ESCAPES: BEACH BLISS FROM THAILAND TO TULUM
SLH’s beach additions include The Retreat Koh Chang in Thailand, part of the Considerate Collection, focused on mindful luxury. In Greece, Eagles Palace offers a private beach, yacht excursions, and an organic garden-totable experience.
Sicily’s Le Calette N°5 delivers Mediterranean charm, while BESPOKE Tulum in Mexico offers breezy beachfront design that blends nature and architecture seamlessly.
URBAN GETAWAYS & SPA RETREATS
City lovers can look forward to Dublin’s Dylan Hotel, known for its stylish rooms and the Ruby Room cocktail bar. For wellness travellers, new spa-focused properties like La Butte aux Bois in Belgium and Twinpalms Bangtao Phuket Tented Resort in Thailand offer high-end relaxation in scenic natural surroundings.
In Guatemala, Bolontiku Boutique Hotel and Spa brings a spiritual dimension to wellness travel, sitting on the mystical shores of Lake Petén Itzá.
For travel advisors, SLH’s expanding footprint offers more choice and flexibility for clients seeking boutique, luxury travel experiences rooted in authenticity.
Le Calette Nº5, Sicily, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World
B&R shares 2026 luxury travel trends
TORONTO Bespoke travel specialist
Butterfield & Robinson is sharing insights about the luxury travel trends it’s already seeing for 2026.
The trends come courtesy of B&R’s Experience Designers, “the experts who seek out the newest and very best for travellers and plan every trip that B&R offers,” says the travel company.
Here’s a look …
MICROEXPERIENCES MAKE THE TRIP
“To truly understand a destination, travellers want to connect with locals in meaningful—and memorable— ways, particularly if it indulges their passions. These personalized experiences are unique to each traveller and offer first-hand access to communities and their traditions.”
LUXURY TRAVELLER IS AGING DOWN
“Young Gen X and Millennials –the under 50 crowd – are seeking experiential, ‘wow-factor’ trips. The wow isn’t just about the price tag, but connectivity, slowing down their pace of travel and prioritizing authenticity.”
At its recent AGM, Discover America Canada announced its new executive board: Susan Webb, VoX International (President), Raina Williams, Expedia Group Media Solutions – Canada (Vice President); Viktor Spysak, Manager, Sales and Tourism Partnerships, Air Canada ((Vice President); Stephen Fine, Snowbird Advisor (Secretary/Treasurer); Sana Keller, Pulse Communications (Director); Greg Marshall, Genesee Journeys (Director); and Colin Wood, VoX International (Director).
OFF-SEASON ADVENTURES FOR AUTHENTICITY
“Luxury travellers are well aware of overtourism and the importance of sustainable travel and they’re changing their travel patterns to respect the destinations they visit. They want to avoid crowds and access the places they visit at their most authentic.”
IT’S TIME TO BREAK OUT OF COMFORT ZONE
“Travellers are itching to try new things and stretch themselves physically and mentally, whether that’s by exploring a new destination, staying at an off-the-radar hotel or using their vacation time to learn a new (sometimes very niche) skill.”
A RENEWED FOCUS ON ARTS AND CULTURE
“Travellers are in search of cerebral experiences that enrich knowledge they may already have or teach them something entirely new. It’s a niche wellness trend that’s being explored foremost through the arts.”
Anguilla reports record-breaking arrivals
THE VALLEY Anguilla’s justreleased visitor arrival stats show a strong upswing especially for the final weeks of 2024.
Last December Anguilla welcomed 23,871 visitors, reflecting a 24.5% increase year over year. It was also the highest number of December arrivals since 1993.
In 2024, visitor arrivals for March and December marked Anguilla’s best-performing months, mirroring the strong performance seen in 2019. Additionally, June and October marked Anguilla’s best-performing months over the previous year’s visitor arrivals.
While the northeastern U.S. remains the island’s top source market, emerging markets including Canada and Latin America are displaying notable growth, underscoring Anguilla’s expanding appeal to visitors from a broader range of international regions, according to Anguilla’s Director of Tourism, Stacey Liburd.
“These impressive figures showcase Anguilla’s growing appeal to travellers, confirming our status as a preferred choice in the
Caribbean, particularly within the luxury sector,” said Liburd. “This accomplishment is the result of strategic collaborations with our public and private stakeholders, along with regional partners, as well as the Anguilla Tourist Board’s (ATB) successful marketing efforts. Furthermore, Anguilla’s distinctive charm, pristine beaches, excellent dive sites, exceptional cuisine, and authentic experiences continue to captivate visitors.”
The ATB’s Deputy Director, Chantelle Richardson, added that the tourism board is optimistic that the positive trend in visitor arrivals will persist. “Our marketing efforts will prioritize enhancing the Anguillian experience by showcasing our vibrant array of cultural events.
We remain committed to welcoming travellers from our established markets in the U.S., Canada, and the UK, while simultaneously exploring new markets to invite potential visitors to experience Anguilla’s unparalleled beauty and hospitality,” she said.
Multimillion dollar refresh planned for two Regent ships
MIAMI Regent Seven Seas Cruises is offering new details about renovations planned for two of its ships.
The work on Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Voyager is scheduled to take place in late 2025 and spring 2026.
ANGUILLA’S
PRISTINE BEACHES, CUISINE AND MORE CAPTIVATE VISITORS
The multi-million-dollar investment will transform the two ships, with refreshed suites, revitalized public spaces and an enhanced Pool Grill.
“We are excited to upgrade Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Voyager as we continue in our Pursuit
2025 survey shows
Home-based agents are younger and newer to the industry.
of Perfection, elevating the standard of ultra-luxury cruising,” said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “Following the resounding success of our Explorer-Class ships and in preparation to welcome our PrestigeClass ships, enhancing Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Voyager is the natural next step as we move into an exciting new era for the brand.”
The cruise line notes that Seven Seas Mariner will begin its refurbishment when the ship enters dry dock in Marseille on Nov. 3, 2025. Upgrades will be complete by Nov. 26, 2025 before the vessel embarks on a 14-night transoceanic Serenity at Sea voyage from Barcelona to Miami.
From there, Seven Seas Mariner will sail a series of Miami round trip itineraries, before embarking on the iconic 2026 World Cruise.
Meanwhile Seven Seas Voyager will enter dry dock on April 26, 2026, with a forecast completion date of May 21, 2026. That’s just ahead of the ship’s 12-night Eastern Mediterranean Gems sailing from Barcelona to Athens with calls to Croatia, Montenegro, and the Greek islands.
Seven Seas Voyager will then embark on several Western and Eastern Mediterranean journeys across Italy, Portugal, Turkey and Greece, before debuting its renovations to guests sailing the British Isles.
UnCruise Adventures introduces onboard WiFi
JUNEAU UnCruise Adventures has launched WiFi across much of its fleet.
The cruise line said the move comes in response to guest feedback.
In an interesting twist, when it’s time to enter national parks and remote wildlife zones, the signal intentionally fades, making space for quiet moments, wild encounters and true digital detox, according to the cruise line.
“We set out to create a connection that works where it matters most –without taking away from what makes an UnCruise special,” said Morris Lowitz, Solutions Engineer and lead on the WiFi rollout. “It took careful planning to bring WiFi to such remote places, but our goal was always clear: give guests the option to connect, while preserving the chance to truly disconnect when it counts.”
Guests sailing aboard the Wilderness Adventurer, Wilderness Discoverer, Safari Endeavour, Wilderness Legacy, and Safari Quest will now have access to onboard WiFi. The connectivity rollout is also on the horizon for Safari Explorer and Safari Voyager.
offerings?
FITs and custom tours
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RSSC’s reimagined Signature Suite
As UnCruise Adventures owner and CEO, Captain Dan Blanchard, put it:
“Our guests are adventurers, but they’re also parents, business owners, caretakers, and eager to share their experiences in real time. We heard their call for occasional connection, and we answered with care. At the same time, we’ve safeguarded the core of the UnCruise experience: uninterrupted immersion in nature. By turning off WiFi in protected areas, we ensure that the wilderness remains a place of wonder, not just another place to scroll.”
Earn a spot on AAT Kings’ mystery trip to Australia or NZ
TORONTO Travel advisors can solve the mystery of a lifetime with AAT Kings’ new Top Achiever’s incentive.
Called ‘A-LISTERS ON LOCATION
Top Achiever’s Tour,’ the incentive includes a five-day AAT Kings/ Inspiring Journeys trip to a mystery destination in either Australia or New Zealand, departing in September.
The destination will be revealed across AAT Kings’ social channels in May.
holidays departing in 2025 will qualify for the tour.
Retail partners with the highest number of deposited passengers will be selected to participate. These retail partners may combine sales from all advisors and, if selected, choose one advisor to attend the tour.
“We’re thrilled to offer our trade partners this exclusive opportunity to experience the incredible destinations that AAT Kings and Inspiring Journeys are known for,” said Ben Hall, CEO
WE HEARD THEIR CALL FOR OCCASIONAL CONNECTION
The incentive is available to travel advisors who achieve exceptional results, covering all 2025 departure bookings made up to July 25. All booked and deposited AAT Kings and Inspiring Journeys guided
AAT Kings Group. “The A-LISTERS ON LOCATION Top Achiever’s Tour is our way of saying thank you for the ongoing support and dedication our partners show in delivering extraordinary travele xperiences to their clients.”
