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Travel & Autism: Planning and booking tips from a single mom
BY CINDY SOSROUTOMO
TORONTO Celeste Hamilton has always loved travelling with her eightyear-old son, Kaylan. As a single mother, the Central California-based meditation teacher and scientist-bytraining credits their many travels for their close bond, starting with their very first overseas trip to Japan when Kaylan was just 13 months old.
Over the years, a new ritual was born: one big trip, just the two of them, every summer for about 10 days. From Colombia to Portugal to most recently Croatia, Celeste and Kaylan are determined to explore the world — together. And not even an autism diagnosis will stop them.
“We discovered Kaylan had Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) when he was around four years old,” Hamilton tells Travelweek. “He can get overstimulated and have difficulty self-regulating in a busy or hectic environment with a lot of people.”
Of course, “busy” and “hectic” often go hand in hand with travel, but that hasn’t stopped Hamilton or her son from venturing abroad. It just means having to cut back on certain activities and taking a few extra steps to accommodate Kaylan’s needs.
“I usually stick to one site or activity or tour per day and leave the rest of the day open. This allows for a good mix of rest and activity each day so we don’t feel rushed or tired during the trip. I know my son likes to look forward to some quiet video game time after a busy day, and I also enjoy space for my meditation so it balances out well,” says Hamilton.
But given that autism is a neurodevelopmental condition, there’s bound to be a few challenges that arise during their travels, most of which, says Hamilton, center around food.
“My son is very picky about food so I always bring snacks that he likes from home in our suitcase and stop by grocery stores while travelling for some staples. But it’s tricky to get enough ‘real food’ in sometimes,” she adds, noting that the trick is to simply go with the flow and to allow herself plenty of flexibility and grace.
What Hamilton says makes a world of difference is booking private personalized tours, transfers and guides, or small group tours that can allow for extra time for Kaylan to rest and eat. To give herself some much-needed alone time – and Kaylan the chance to interact with other kids – she also recommends taking
advantage of kids clubs, like the one offered at the hotel they stayed at in Croatia.
“The kids club was great because my son was eager to play with peers and engage in fun activities for a few hours,” she says. “If I had been more intentional with my planning, I could have booked a massage with that solo time!”
Of course, kids clubs have been the norm at all-inclusive resorts for years, offering a wide range of activities and amenities for young guests, from arts and crafts and video games, to movie nights and water sports. But for families like Hamilton’s that include members with autism, there are certain resorts, like Beaches Resorts, that offer the added benefit of being Certified Autism Centers.
Part of Sandals Resorts International (SRI), Beaches Resorts became the first resort company to be designated as a Certified Autism Center (CAC) in 2017. Just a few years later in 2019, it also became the first to attain the Advanced Certified Autism Center (ACAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). Today, all three Beaches properties – Beaches Turks & Caicos, Beaches Negril and Beaches Ocho Rios – are home to the Caribbean’s first autism-friendly Kids Camps, run by team members who’ve completed a minimum 40 hours of autism sensitivity training, in addition to the minimum 2,000 hours of childcare training through Beaches’
Celeste Hamilton and her son, Kaylan in Dubrovnik, Croatia
membership in the International Nanny Association.
According to Heather Effs, Corporate Manager, Entertainment at Beaches Resorts, the feedback from parents has been “incredible” over the past seven years since Beaches first introduced its autism-friendly programs and services.
“They especially appreciate that everything is tailored to their child’s specific needs. Dining habits can be customized at any of the up to 20 restaurants per Beaches resort by speaking to a team member at the on-site Beaches Culinary Concierge desk. Even our watersports program can offer an autism-friendly scuba diving program for people on the spectrum,” says Effs.
“There’s nothing more rewarding than watching a guest on the spectrum –whether it’s a toddler, tween or even a young adult – try something new during their time with us. To some, it may seem like a small thing, for example, trying a new food that they normally don’t eat or even jumping in the pool for the first time. But we know that it really is a huge thing! These are the moments that are truly unforgettable, for the families and for our team members,” she adds.
It’s these monumental ‘firsts’ that Hamilton also cherishes, knowing just how much new experiences mean to her son.
“On our latest trip to Croatia, we went on our first boating trip around the Solta and Brac islands and our private guide taught my son how to drive the boat. I love seeing his eyes light up when he learns something new about a country, culture or people, like taking our first helicopter ride, discovering how coffee is made on a coffee farm, or seeing the old buildings and cobblestone streets of Europe,” says Hamilton.
1 IN 50 CHILDREN AND YOUTH
According to Autism Speaks Canada, 1 in 50 children and youth are diagnosed with autism, representing a significant travel market. In recent years, Canada’s travel industry has taken several steps to accommodate persons with autism and other diverse needs. Toronto Pearson, for example, has partnered with Autism Ontario and Magnusmode to provide autism- and neurodiverse-friendly resources, including ‘Card Decks’ that provide step-by-step instructions for all airport activities, and the Sunflower Program, which offers a discreet way to identify passengers with invisible disabilities who may need extra assistance. Air Canada
Got a story idea? Questions or comments? Write to Cindy Sosroutomo at cindys@travelweek.ca
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adopted the program, which first launched at Gatwick Airport in 2016, back in January.
But the road to smooth travels for families with autistic children begins long before their arrival at the airport, as Hamilton can attest. During the booking stage, she says it’s important to find a travel agent who’s both intuitive and proactive.
“I think it’s good practice for the agent to ask questions – not assume – and be open to listening to client requests and preferences. I also like when travel agents give a head’s up to local guides about my son’s needs so that they know what to expect and that everyone is on the same page. Open communication is key,” says Hamilton.
And so what’s next for Hamilton and her son? Where are they headed in 2025? Morocco!
“After our Colombia trip, I discovered how special this time is for us to bond and spend quality, uninterrupted time together,” she says. “Our trips are our special mommy and son time. I just love having that dedicated time together.”.
Celeste Hamilton and her son Kaylan in Medellín, Colombia
11 good reasons to cruise with CroisiEurope
BY GARY LAWRENCE
MONTREAL Last March, I sailed with CroisiEurope on the Moldau and Elbe rivers aboard the Elbe Princesse II, a river cruise ship that took me from Prague to Berlin. It was an exciting journey for anyone who enjoys art, culture, fine dining, history and unique natural scenery, such as the ancient extinct volcanoes of the Czech Republic or the sandstone cliffs of the Elbe.
Point by point, here are the essential elements that make this cruise a sure thing and a fantastic way to traverse Central Europe, visiting splendid sites and cities while relaxing and dining well.
THE ONBOARD SETTING
The Elbe Princesse II features pleasant public areas that are open and airy, and includes a wellwindowed dining room (lower deck) and a lounge with even larger windows, along with comfortable armchairs and sofas. Nearly the entire roof of the ship is a vast terrace, the Sun Deck, which is partly covered and where you can lie on loungers and watch the scenery pass by slowly.
Everything is included on board (meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, etc.), except for excursions, which can be purchased à la carte or as a package.
THE CABINS
The cabins are modest in size but those on the upper deck feature
large, sliding, patio-style windows (almost the size of the cabin wall) that open to the outside. You can stretch out in your bed to admire the landscape or deploy the retractable TV at the touch of a button.
A complete bathroom (with a very efficient shower), a small desk and a wardrobe with a safe complete the setup.
DINING
The dining is always very good, even excellent. The fixed menu (unless a special request is made) changes daily, and the chef takes pride in varying the dishes while staying within the realm of French gastronomy, with or without a local touch. You are never disappointed: cod fillet with white butter sauce, venison steak with lingonberries, quails in red wine, flambéed Norwegian omelet served with flair — all complemented by unlimited white
or red wine (with a wider selection available for an additional fee).
In the morning, each table is provided with a basket of (very good) pastries, while the buffet offers traditional breakfast items (eggs, cheeses, cold cuts, cereals, yogurts, etc.). You can also request à la carte items (omelets, poached eggs, etc.).
Outside of the plentiful meals, there are only light snacks available. However, the bar is open and you can request refreshments, alcoholic or non-alcoholic, at any time.
THE SERVICE
This is one of the great strengths of this ship and, according to several loyal passengers, of CroisiEurope. The staff is extremely attentive and always smiling, especially at tables where it is particularly warm and efficient. The staff is proficient in both French and English.
A telling anecdote: upon learning that I was a fan of one of the servers, Tokaji, who was Hungarian, went to his cabin to fetch a bottle of delicious Hungarian wine to offer me a glass. Get the idea?
Generally, all the staff (housekeepers and sailors included) are friendly and very nice to the passengers.
THE MAINTENANCE
The cleanliness of the Elbe Princesse II is impeccable, inside and out. The large windows are always spotless and regularly maintained, and even the ship’s sides are cleaned during lock passages, demonstrating the high level of care given to the ship’s condition.
THE PORTS OF CALL
All the ports of call are very interesting, even impressive, and there is always something exciting to discover, see and learn.
Good to know: Although several guided tours are offered on board for Prague and Berlin, it is better to plan a few additional days, before and after the cruise, as there is much to see and do in these two cities.
THE GUIDED TOURS
At each port of call, guided excursions are offered, in French and English whenever there are Englishspeaking passengers on board. In some cases, cruisers are free to explore the destination on their own (e.g., Prague, Berlin, Meissen, Bad Schandau, and Dresden). But sometimes there is no choice but to join the excursion, as the destination visited is located between two ports of call (ie. Wittenberg, where the ship continues its route while you visit) or is too far from the port (ie. Königstein).
In Dresden, the guided coach tour takes a long detour around the city, so it is better to go on your own if you wish to focus on the old town. In any case, it is better to purchase the package that includes all excursions upfront: at the price of individual excursions, you quickly get your money’s worth. Otherwise, the total cost becomes higher after a few excursions, and there may be no more available spots.
Finally, depending on the week you take the cruise, some excursions may be added or removed for various reasons (for example, the former concentration camp at Terezin in the Czech Republic).
LIFE ONBOARD WHILE SAILING
Just as you see private backyards when traveling by train, you do the same on a river cruise. You watch the scenery pass by slowly, get a glimpse into people’s lives, see farmers at work, and discover the behind-thescenes of the cities you pass through. Each day, you can lounge on a Sun Deck chair or relax in your cabin bed while watching the images of the shore pass by: the towering spires, deserted hamlets, a farmer fishing, a flock of herons, a cyclist overtaking us on the beautiful Elbe bike paths. Even with the wind at its back, the paddle wheels of the Elbe Princesse II never manage to propel it faster than 18 km/hr.
Between all the stops, life continues on board. Some knit, others chat, some dive into a novel or their travel guide while waiting for the next call from Erika, the vibrant and multilingual cruise director. She invites passengers to rush to the windows or the Sun Deck as the harpshaped bridge of Ústí nad Labem, one of the many locks passed, or
the charming town of Litomě ice approaches, where you can see the surprising extinct volcanoes of the Czech Republic in the distance.
ONBOARD ENTERTAINMENT
Entertainment ranges from presentations on Czech beer (with tasting) to a French-style soirée with dancing and berets, as well as an excellent performance by a Czech trio presenting traditional folk music, including a cimbalom player (a type of ancient piano-xylophone). In any case, you are free to go to the Sun Deck or your cabin if you are not interested.
THE PASSENGERS
During our stay, the vast majority of the 89 cruisers were Francophone (French, Belgians, Swiss, and one Québécois – yours truly), and eight passengers (Americans) were Anglophone. In the lounge or at the table, conviviality is encouraged but not required: you can easily request a separate table if you’re not in the mood for conversation, or ask to join an English-speaking group.
Also during our stay, the average age of passengers was around 70, but there were some in their fifties plus a family with two teenagers. Almost everyone was in good physical condition, and the group’s pace was never slowed during excursions.
A WEALTH OF CRUISES TO EXPLORE
Finally, once you get hooked, there is no shortage of options for a repeat experience: CroisiEurope offers a multitude of river (and also sea) cruises in Europe as well as in Asia and the Middle East.
For more information go to www. croisieurope.travel/en.
DESTINATIONS
Turks and Caicos Islands welcomed close to a million air arrivals and cruise visitors between January and June 2024. In total, the destination recorded 998,854 passengers in the first six months of the year, with 408,749 arriving by air (+13.64%). Cruise arrivals are also up, with 590,105 cruise passengers recorded (+19.45%). June saw 72,009 air arrivals, an increase of 28.4% compared to the same period in 2023. Cruise passenger numbers for June were the highest for the year so far, with 110,504 passengers from 24 cruise calls, a whopping 82.65% increase from the same period in 2023.
Dubai welcomed 9.31 million international overnight visitors from January to June 2024, a 9% increase over the 8.55 million arrivals in the first half of 2023. This puts the city on track for a record performance in 2024, following a landmark 2023 when it hosted 17.15 million international overnight visitors. The Americas saw a rise in visitation from January to June, at 617,000 (7%). H1 saw a number of high-profile hotel openings including The Lana, Dorchester Collection’s first Middle East property, SIRO One Za’abeel, Dubai’s first fitness hotel, and Hilton Dubai Creek Hotel & Residences.
AIRLINES
Spirit Airlines is moving farther away from its history as a feehappy budget airline and will start selling tickets that include some of its most popular extras in bundles. The Florida-based airline said the top ticket will be a “Go Big” package that includes priority check-in, a roomier seat, snacks and drinks, a checked bag, a carry-on bag and free WiFi. It said customers will be able to book any of the four new ticket bundles starting Aug. 16. That means they won’t be available during the height of summer-vacation travel but will be in use over the busy Labor Day holiday.
Turkish Airlines carried a total of 22.1 million passengers in the second quarter of the year. While global passenger capacity in Q2 has just reached pre-pandemic levels, says IATA, Turkish Airlines exceeded 2019 passenger capacity by 38%. In the April-June period, the airline’s total revenues rose by 10% year-on-year to US$5.7 billion. Accounting for 81% of the total, passenger revenues increased to $4.6 billion. The airline aims to expand its fleet to 800 aircraft by 2033 as part of its 100th Anniversary Strategy. It increased its number of aircraft by 9% in the first half of 2024 to 458.
Turkish Airlines Grand Turk Island
Charles Krupa
Air Canada
Vacations launches new Colombia program
MONTREAL Air Canada Vacations has unveiled its brand new Colombia guided tours program featuring yearround tours and packages.
Key destinations include Bogotá, Cartagena de Indias, Medellín, Salento, Mesetas, Múcura Island, Barichara, Guasca, Villa de Leyva, and Islas del Rosario. Featuring a variety of hand-picked durations and activities, the program’s seven year-round packages include private airport transportation, breakfast, entrance fees when visiting monuments, connecting flights (where applicable) and 3to 5-star accommodations in key areas. Sightseeing transportation is also included and can be either shared or private; boat transfers are always shared.
Accessing Colombia has become much easier for Canadians thanks to three year-round weekly flights from Toronto, and four weekly flights from Montreal, available until Dec. 8, 2024. These are followed by daily flights from Dec. 9, 2024 until March 28, 2025. Connecting flights are available from over 60 Canadian airports.
Featured tours in the Colombia program include:
• Andrean Discovery, a Couple’s Expedition (11 days/10 nights): This romantic adventure begins in Bogotá where guests will visit Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. They’ll also explore the colonial towns of Villa de Leyva and Barichara and participate in a painting experience using local earth pigments.
• Cartagena de Indias and Múcara Island, and R&R Getaway (11 days/10 nights): This tour begins in Cartagena de Indias with a walking tour, followed by visits to Getsemani and Mucura Island where guests can enjoy delicious meals, leisure activities and pool time.
• City Sights and Natural Delights, a Family Journey (11 days/10 nights): This family getaway begins and ends in Bogotá and includes visits to Cartagena de Indias and Islas del Rosario, hiking in Chicaque Park, a stop at the National Aviary in Baru, beach time in Cartagena de Indias and a walking tour of Bogotá featuring the Gold Museum and Paloquemao Market.
• Colombian Gems, a Golden Adventure (11 days/10 nights): Guests will explore Bogotá, Salento and Medellín on this itinerary that starts and ends in Bogotá. Highlights include Salento’s wax palm forest, learning about
Colombian coffee at a hacienda and discovering Medellín’s vibrant art scene.
• Colombian Thrills, an Adrenaline Escapade (11 days/10 nights): Packed with adventure, this itinerary begins and ends in Bogotá and includes visits to Mesetas and Medellín. Guests can enjoy tandem paragliding in Bogotá, hiking and whitewater rafting in Güejar River Canyon, and biking down Boquerón Mountain.
• Heritage Exploration, a Colombian Cultural Insight (11 days/10 nights): guests will explore Colombia’s rich heritage and diverse landscapes on this well-crafted itinerary that starts and ends in Bogotá and visits Medellín and Cartagena. Highlights include learning crafts, exploring Matarredonda Ecological Park, experiencing Medellín’s Comuna 13, touring San Felipe Castle in Cartagena and visiting San Basillio de Palenque.
• The Best of Bogota (8 days/7 nights): Designed for the first-time traveller to Colombia, this tour provides an ideal introduction, featuring a hike to La Chorrera waterfall, a visit to El Paraíso farm to learn about Colombia’s coffee heritage, and indulging in local flavours at Paloquemao Market.
Cartagena
Maximize sales with Transat’s two major sales
Travel agents can get a leg up on fall and winter bookings with Transat, which is offering not one, but two major sales.
First, Transat is offering deep discounts on select all-inclusive packages to Cuba, with prices starting at $759 from Toronto and $1,189 from Halifax. All-inclusive resorts are available in top Cuban destinations like Cayo Coco, Cayo Santa Maria, Holguín and Varadero. This offer is valid for travel between Aug. 6, 2024 and April 30, 2025. Plus travel agents can earn 3X BONBONS on new bookings of valid packages (minimum seven-night stay, double occupancy) made with Transat Tours Canada.
For those who prefer to explore on their own, Air Transat has launched its End of Summer Sale, featuring discounts on 250,000 seats to Europe, Florida and the South. These discounted fares are available for bookings made before Aug. 30, 2024, for selected flights and travel between Oct. 31, 2024.
“Such significant promotions are a crucial time for agents to be proactive,” says Nicole Bursey, Commercial Director at Transat.
“My advice is to approach customers directly with specific products in mind to increase your chances of closing a sale, build a trusting relationship by tailoring your offer, and ultimately build loyalty.”
Bursey also suggests developing a strategy to attract new prospects, such as targeting those who have shown in interest in similar destinations.
“Personalized communication can significantly increase engagement and conversion. Being proactive and strategic will certainly help agents maximize their sales during Transat’s promotions,” she says.
“These promotions are a great opportunity for agents to showcase Transat’s diverse offerings. Whether your clients are looking for a relaxing allinclusive beach holiday in Cuba or an independent adventure in Europe, Florida or the South, there is something for everyone,” Bursey adds.
For more details go to transat.com or airtransat.com.
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Air Transat updates fare classes for domestic and U.S. flights
BY GARY LAWRENCE
MONTREAL Air Transat has made changes to its fare classes for new bookings.
As of Aug. 8, the airline’s Eco Standard fare class no longer includes checked baggage for domestic flights and flights to the United States. Other changes to fare classes are also being implemented.
The new policy affects only domestic flights within Canada and flights to the United States.
According to the airline’s new policy, only the Eco Flex, Club Standard, and Club Flex fare classes still include checked baggage, with one bag included for Eco Flex and two bags included for Club Standard and Club Flex.
A STRICTLY NORTH AMERICAN POLICY
“It is not our plan to extend these new conditions to our international routes at this time,”
Air Transat spokesperson tells Profession Voyages, Travelweek’s French publication.
“The goal of these changes is to offer the products our customers are looking for at the best price by aligning with market conditions,” they added.
NEW FLEXIBILITY CONDITIONS
The Eco Standard fare class no longer includes a checked bag in the ticket price, similar to the existing Eco Budget fare class.
For example, passengers will need to pay $42 per bag per flight segment (or $53 if purchased 24 hours before departure) for a Montreal-Miami flight, unless they purchase Option Plus, which includes checked baggage.
If a change is made to the initial booking after Aug. 8, 2024, the new sales conditions in effect at the time of the change will apply.
EXCLUSIONS FOR PACKAGES AND GROUPS
The changes do not apply to packages or groups, as the former includes a checked bag, and group conditions naturally differ from individual booking conditions.
Each passenger will still be entitled to one cabin bag, as is currently the case.
THE CHANGES DO NOT APPLY TO PACKAGES OR GROUPS.
In line with these changes, Air Transat is also announcing updates to its flexibility conditions:
• Removal of change fees for Club and Club Standard: henceforth, only the fare difference will be charged, if applicable. No changes will be permitted within 24 hours of departure.
• Cancellation fees will now be calculated per person, per direction: – Economy and Eco Standard: $125 per person per direction – Club and Club Standard: $50 per person per direction
• No refunds will be given within 24 hours of departure. Refunds will be made according to the payment method on file if the cancellation is made by the customer, even in cases of force majeure. If a change is made to the initial booking after August 8, 2024, the new sales conditions in effect at the time of the change will apply.
Brand new Beaches resort coming to The Bahamas
MONTEGO BAY Sandals Resorts International (SRI) has announced its fourth Beaches Resorts property, set to debut in The Bahamas as Beaches Exuma.
As the first Beaches in The Bahamas, Beaches Exuma will take over Sandals Emerald Bay, which will close on Aug. 15, 2024 to undergo a transformation that will begin in fall 2024. Originally developed as a family-oriented resort when it opened over two decades ago, the existing Sandals property maintains an ideal layout of beaches, pools and areas for families.
The new Beaches Exuma will include an evolved configuration of rooms with multi-bedroom villas, suites and connecting rooms, as well as undergo upgrades to its 12 restaurants and culinary offerings. New developments will include a Kids Camp, splash deck and more, complementing popular amenities like the full-service Red Lane Spa and access to the Greg Norman-designed 18-hole Emerald Bay golf course.
“Exuma was made for families and with more than 6,000 feet of shoreline, the new Beaches Exuma will be a gateway to discovering the incomparable beauty of this part of The Bahamas,” stated Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of Sandals Resorts International. “At the core of every great family vacation is the creation of memories so magical they last a lifetime. For more than two decades, I’ve cherished every moment I’ve spent together with my family along the lively shores of Exuma, where my own children have grown up among one of nature’s most inspiring playgrounds — from
swimming pigs, majestic sea turtles, sandbars and so much more,” Stewart continued.
The Bahamas’ Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism and Aviation, Chester Cooper, welcomed the expansion and said he is greatly anticipating the redevelopment of the property.
“Sandals has been a trusted partner with The Bahamas for many years,” said Cooper, who is also from Exuma and is the parliamentary representative for the area. “As we saw with the redevelopment of Sandals Royal Bahamian on New Providence nearly three years ago, when they invest in a property it flourishes. We will miss the Sandals Emerald Bay, but we welcome Beaches Exuma, which will be an expanded endeavor that caters to more visitors and employs more Bahamians. Exuma is my home and I’ll be with her every step of this journey.”
The news about Beaches Exuma comes on the heels of the recent opening of Sandals Dunn’s River in Jamaica, Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Sandals Royal Curaçao.
Crystal launches new booking engine for travel advisors
TORONTO Crystal has launched a new state-of-the-art booking engine for travel advisors designed to streamline and enhance the booking experience.
Launched Aug. 1, 2024, the new tool seamlessly integrates into crystalcruises.com, making it simpler and more efficient for travel advisors to manage their cruise bookings.
Said Marett Taylor, Chief Sales Officer of parent company A&K Travel Group: “Travel advisors are at the heart of our business, and we are committed to providing them with the best tools and resources available. Our new booking engine is a testament to our dedication to innovation and excellence. We believe it will significantly enhance the efficiency of our valued travel partners, enabling them to deliver exceptional service to their clients.”
Key features of the booking engine include:
• Intuitive user interface: A clean, easy-to-navigate design simplifies the search and booking proces
The site of the future Beaches Exuma
• Real-time availability: Travel advisors can access up-to-date information on cruise availability, suite categories and pricing.
• Personalized recommendations: The platform leverages advanced algorithms to provide cruise recommendations based on clients’ preferences and optional back-toback voyage combinations.
• Enhanced support: A dedicated support team and comprehensive training resources ensure travel advisors can make the most of the new system.
• Exclusive promotions: Travel advisors can access special deals and promotions through the new booking engine.
To ensure a smooth transition, Crystal has developed training resources, including webinars, video tutorials and step-by-step guides. Travel advisors will also have access to a dedicated support team to assist with any issues that may arise.
A&K Travel Group bought Crystal Cruises in June 2022 after the cruise line ran into financial difficulties. Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony made their triumphant return this summer under a reimagined name: Crystal – Exceptional at Sea. Crystal will offer 2023 and 2024 voyages aboard both ships that sail throughout the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Canada and New England, Alaska, the Caribbean, through the Panama Canal, the Middle East, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.
For more information about the new travel agent booking engine, go to www.crystalcruises.com/ travel-advisors or contact salessupport@crystalcruises.com.
Global travel provider Europ Assistance enters Canadian market
TORONTO Europ Assistance (EA), a subsidiary of the Generali Group, has officially launched operations in Canada with the introduction of a comprehensive new travel insurance platform.
This expansion marks EA’s 36th operational market, its 2nd in North America, joining Generali Global Assistance in the United States.
Founded in 1963, EA enters the Canadian market with a network of more than 750,000 approved providers, offering assistance and insurance options in the travel, mobility, home & family, health, and concierge services fields.
“We are excited to expand our travel insurance offerings into Canada, marking another step in our North American growth,”
says Antoine Parisi, CEO of Europ Assistance Group.
“This expansion enables us to deliver top-quality service to Canadians, furthering our mission to support travellers worldwide by providing peace of mind and exceptional care for both people and their belongings.”
The Canadian leadership team will be led by CEO Robert Iafrate, who brings over 30 years of leadership experience from the travel insurance and living benefits industries.
“I am delighted to lead the Europ Assistance group into Canada as we pair our vast worldwide care network with local solutions for Canadians across the country, addressing the unique needs of the market and enhancing the Canadian travel insurance landscape,” says Iafrate.
Starting in 2024, EA will introduce robust travel insurance offerings through global and domestic partnerships with travel providers, financial institutions, the retail sector and other distribution. In addition, EA aims to partner with over 300 local entities, including hospitals, clinics, air ambulances and other providers to ensure service experiences for domestic and inbound travel.
For more information go to www.europ-assistance.ca.
THIS EXPANSION ENABLES US TO DELIVER TOP-QUALITY SERVICE TO CANADIANS.
Rob Iafrate
Advocacy group concerned about Air Canada’s bid for rail services
TORONTO An advocacy group is raising concerns about Air Canada’s participation in a bid for rail services.
Transport Action Canada, which advocates for passengers and sustainable transport, has contacted Public Services and Procurement Canada following news that Air Canada has joined a High Frequency Rail (HFR) bid for a multi-decade operating concession for all VIA Rail’s Quebec-Windsor train services.
The bid was made by Cadence consortium, led by CDPQinfra. Along with Air Canada, French governmentowned SNCF Voyageurs also joined by the bid ahead of the July 24 deadline.
According to Transport Action Canada, if Cadence is selected as the winning consortium and becomes the “Private Development Partner” for HFR by the end of the year, the handover of train and HFR services to the private sector would happen some time during the multi-year period.
The group contacted Public Services and Procurement Canada about the following concerns:
• Rail-air codeshares should be available equally to all airlines flying into Canada’s international airports. If one airline owns part of the rail service, safeguards would be needed to ensure fairness.
• The government may have given Air Canada access to HFR project data that provides competitive advantages over other airlines and VIA Rail.
• Allowing one of three shortlisted consortia to reveal major changes in its composition only when it
was too late for the others to respond was unfair.
• Various requests for information about High Frequency Rail –including taxpayer-funded studies that would have enabled wellinformed public discussion – were rebuffed or heavily redacted over the past decade on the grounds of commercial sensitivity. Either the previous redactions were spurious, or sensitive information has now been made available to a current competitor.
Transport Action Canada says it received a response from Public Services and Procurement Canada on Aug. 2, which stated that “an analysis conducted by Transport Canada and Public Services and Procurement Canada concluded that the addition of Air Canada meets the requirements specified in the procurement documents.” The response also provided assurances that the government intends to carefully scrutinise the agreements drafted in the co-development process to “ensure that the project interacts with different modes of transportation in a manner structured to ensure fair, open and level competition among the entities in other transportation sectors.”
However, as Transport Action Canada notes, the response did not address concerns about lack of transparency or access to competitive information. Air Canada and Cadence were unable to offer further clarification, citing procurement rules, it added.
“It is crucial that Public Services and Procurement Canada ensure that the process is fully transparent and beyond reproach, especially important for the procurement of a project of this scale and that is vitally important to Canada’s future productivity and sustainable
prosperity,” said Transport Action Canada on its website.
“We urge Air Canada to avoid any further perception of conflict of interest by stepping back from directly competing in the procurement and indicating its willingness to work with VIA Rail and the future High Frequency Rail service whatever the outcome,” the group added.
LaDonna Allen is Costa’s new head of sales, North America
Costa Cruises has appointed LaDonna Allen as head of sales for North America. In this role, Allen will oversee strategic and national accounts, charter and incentives, and field sales, working closely with Costa’s team of business development managers to expand the company’s footprint in North America.
Allen comes to Costa Cruises with 35 years of experience in the travel industry, most recently serving as director of travel advisor partnerships at NaviStone, a digital and direct marketing company. Prior to that, she was with Princess Cruises and Cunard for nearly 10 years where she held the roles of national account manager and business development manager, respectively. She began her career in 1989 as a travel advisor for 18 years.
LaDonna Allen PEOPLE
Transcend Cruises signs contract for first new-build river ship
TORONTO Transcend Cruises, the first global charter-only river cruise company, has signed a construction contract for its initial new-build river cruise ship.
Set for delivery in Q4 of 2025, the new ship – built by Den Breejen Shipyard – will be followed by a second new-build in 2026, subject to additional financing. Both 135-metre ships will offer spaces and services designed exclusively for the group market, with 120-guest capacity in 60 identical staterooms that convert in pairs to suites.
Transcend covers the affinity market, tour operators, travel advisors and meeting and incentive planners with innovative alternatives to landbased conferences and events on the rivers of Europe. As a B2B-focused platform, its ships will be outfitted with a wide range of technologies that allow charter clients to amplify their brands for their guests, through cutting edge digital signage, custom lighting, sound and imagery.
“These sectors of the industry are hungry for something new, viable and cost-effective that delivers a level of service they would expect from a five-star hotel on land. This is truly a gamechanger for these market segments,” said Hans Rood, CEO of Transcend Cruises.
Sustainability is a key pillar of Transcend’s culture and strategy, embedded in elements of the ship build, onboard experiences, product inclusions and eco-inspired design. These include stage-five, low-emission engines, an electric thruster system for emissions-free, last-mile maneuvering, food waste minimization technology, and staffing and sourcing locally.
For more information go to https://www.transcend.cruises/.
THE NEW SHIP WILL BE FOLLOWED BY A SECOND NEW-BUILD IN 2026.
Porter expands Las Vegas service, adds Southern California routes
TORONTO Porter Airlines is ramping up its winter program with new routes to popular sun destinations in the United States.
Starting Nov. 1, the airline will begin operating nonstop service between Ottawa International Airport (YOW) and Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) 4x/weekly. Porter will be the only carrier operating the OttawaLas Vegas route.
Service between Las Vegas and Montréal-Trudeau (YUL) will start Nov. 2, with flights operating 3x/weekly.
The new routes complement Porter’s existing twice-daily service between Las Vegas and Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ).
Connections are available through Porter and its partner network. This includes Alaska Airlines flights for travel across the Western U.S. via LAS, while Porter’s extensive Eastern Canada network provides multiple options through YOW and YUL. Transatlantic itineraries are also available with Air Transat via YUL.
Porter has also announced new nonstop flights this winter season from Toronto to Southern California. Starting Dec. 9, year-round service from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) will fly four times a week, on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
Also new this winter from YYZ is Palm Springs winter seasonal service, starting Dec. 12 with three weekly flights on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
Transcend Cruises
Both routes will be operated with the brand new Embraer E195-E2 featuring a two-by-two configuration. Passengers can also enjoy seamless connections with Porter’s airline partners. They can travel onwards to Europe through YYZ with Air Transat, or explore the Western U.S. through San Diego and Palm Springs by connecting on Alaska Airlines.
Porter now serves four California cities nonstop from Toronto Pearson: Los Angeles, Palm Springs, San Diego and San Francisco.
BOTH ROUTES WILL BE OPERATED WITH THE NEW EMBRAER E195-E2.
Viking launches new Travel Advisor Portal
LOS ANGELES Viking has launched its new and improved Travel Advisor Portal, designed to provide the right tools and resources to sell its products.
The updated platform offers a suite of features to enhance the booking experience and streamline the marketing process, including marketing content, assets for building co-branded websites, and Viking’s popular Travel Advisor Academy.
The Travel Advisor Portal features several enhancements that allow advisors to do the following:
• Search multiple cruise types with intuitive filters to find itineraries by city, port, month or date range
• Find and book qualifying sailings with a new offer code search feature
• Sort bookings by upcoming payment deadlines with the new booking dashboard
• Search for a booking by guest name and filter by booking status
• Select from all stateroom categories with an interactive room selection
• Avoid calling the Viking Air Department to add Air Plus earlier in the booking process
• Download a PDF or print a quote for clients
“For 27 years, curious travellers have explored the world in comfort with Viking, and one of the reasons we have enjoyed success is because of our relationships with travel advisors,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “We have always had some of the most trade-friendly policies, including our history as the first and only major cruise line with no NCFs. This new and improved portal is the latest step in our effort to be the best business partner for travel advisors.”
Viking Octantis in Antarctica
Azores Airlines extends Montreal-Ponta Delgada service
TORONTO Azores Airlines has extended nonstop service between Montreal and Ponta Delgada (Azores) throughout the winter season.
From Oct. 27, 2024, flights between the two cities will operate twice a week, on Monday and Saturday, until March 29, 2025.
In addition, the airline is extending direct flights between Ponta Delgada and Faro, and Ponta Delgada and Milan, also from Oct. 27, 2024 and March 29, 2025. Flights between Faro and Ponta Delgada will run on Thursday and Sunday, while flights between Ponta Delgada and Milan will be carried out weekly on Mondays.
According to the airline, these three routes, which began in April (Montreal) and June (Milan and Faro), allow the carrier to consolidate its presence in markets with huge growth potential. All three routes are now available on bookings systems.
Register now for Cuba’s TURNAT 2024 fam trip
TORONTO The Cuba Tourist Board is inviting all travel advisors to register for an upcoming fam trip to attend TURNAT 2024.
Taking place from Sept. 20-27, 2024 in Marea del Portillo, Manzanillo, the conference will focus on eco-tourism and adventure, with visits to Cuba’s national parks in Holguin, Granma and Santiago de Cuba provinces, plus unique sites and historical places along the way.
“This is an exceptional opportunity for travel advisors who would like to expand their Cuba portfolio and discover the Cuba beyond the allinclusives and enjoy the natural wonders of Sierra Maestra, tranquil beaches and lush forests,” said Lessner Gomez, Director of the Cuba Tourist Board in Toronto.
Travel advisors joining the group should be physically fit to take part in soft adventure activities, must be TICO registered and actively sell Cuba.
To register, email nieves@gocuba.ca by Aug. 23, 2024. Space is limited.
Celestyal launches new trade portal for cruise and land packages
TORONTO Celestyal has launched a new booking portal for travel agents that allows them to easily book cruise and land packages for their clients.
Available via Celestyal’s trade agent booking system, the new tool gives agents the ability to book preand post-cruise hotel stays with transfers included.
All hotels offered are four-star and above. Private transfers to/from the airport, hotel and port are available.
The service is currently included on a number of 2024 and 2025 sailings departing from Athens, including the three- and four-night ‘Iconic Aegean,’ the seven-night ‘Idyllic Aegean,’ the seven-night ‘Steps of Paul,’ and the upcoming seven-night ‘Heavenly Adriatic.’ Plans are in place to eventually expand the offering to the Arabian Gulf.
“We’re thrilled to introduce this new tool allowing our trade partners to offer even more comprehensive and personalized experiences for their clients,” said Brandon Townsley, Celestyal Vice President and Managing Director North America.
“By allowing agents to seamlessly book cruise and land packages, including high-quality hotel stays and private transfers, we’re enhancing the overall value and convenience of the Celestyal experience.”
For more information visit the Celestyal trade portal.
Sao Miguel Island, Azores
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Travel Leaders Network (TLN) toasted to the success of its members while on its annual Elite event, held this year aboard Princess Cruises’ Diamond Princess. The cruise, which sailed through Japan and South Korea, welcomed 24 high-performing Affiliate members and their guests in the United States and Canada.
Coming in 2025:
Pearl Cove Beach Club
Carnival’s 18+ retreat on Celebration Key
MIAMI Carnival Cruise Line has unveiled new details about Pearl Cove Beach Club, an exclusive retreat on Celebration Key, the cruise line’s new exclusive port destination opening in The Bahamas in summer 2025.
Nestled in the westernmost point of the destination, Pearl Cove Beach Club will offer a premium experience for guests 18 and older complete with a secluded entry opening to views of an 11,000 square-foot private infinity pool with a large sun-shelf, water loungers and a swim-up bar. Pink-striped sun umbrellas atop sun loungers and daybeds will line the pool area, while a DJ will play tropical lounge music to encourage lounging and socializing. Just past the pool will be a dedicated, private beach with sun loungers and food and drink service. Pearl Cove Beach Club will also boast a full-service restaurant, bar and lounge with indoor and outdoor seating.
Reservations for Pearl Cove Beach Club are now available through Jan. 2, 2026, and include three options: club access plus a welcome drink;
club access plus open bar (maximum of 10 drinks); club access, all inclusive (open bar – maximum 10 drinks – and food from the Pearl Cove restaurant).
For all guests spending the day at Celebration Key, Carnival is also opening reservations for eight types of villas, cabanas and daybeds, located in 14 zones across the destination, available for booking through Jan. 2, 2026.
The options include:
• Daybeds and Water Daybeds: Located at Calypso Lagoon and Starfish Lagoon, daybeds provide plush lounging for two, with pillows, a canopy for shade and privacy curtains. Water daybeds include “cool” lounging for two on the sun-shelf at Calypso Lagoon.
• Cabanas: Available at several locations surrounding Celebration Key’s freshwater lagoons that cater to adults or families, some close to the splash pad for easy supervision of the kids at play, cabanas provide comfortable seating for four guests, including a sofa, armchairs and two sun loungers, as well as a cooler with chilled water bottles, private locking cabinet and privacy curtains. Fresh fruit and snacks available upon arrival.
• Over-the-Lagoon Cabanas: These cabanas are located on peninsulas that are over the Calypso and Starfish Lagoons. They feature the same functionality and features of the regular cabanas and add a private sun-shelf and ceiling fan.
• Large Cabanas: Located around Calypso and Starfish Lagoons, the large cabanas accommodate groups of six. Amenities include four sun loungers with umbrellas, mini fridge stocked with water and soft drinks, locking cabinet, comfortable sofa, dining table with four seats, privacy curtains, ceiling fan, fresh fruit and snacks upon arrival, as well as lunch delivery.
• AquaBanas: Comfortable and sturdy floating cabanas that are fun for all ages, in the family-friendly Starfish Lagoon, Aquabanas offer seating for eight people to relax around a table, with their feet in the water, under a shady canopy. Steps provide easy access to the freshwater lagoon.
• Over-the-Lagoon Supervillas: The destination’s largest cabana offering, Supervillas accommodate 10 guests with plenty of comfortable sofa and armchair seating under shade. Amenities also include locking cabinets, dining table with eight chairs, mini fridge stocked with water and soft drinks, ceiling fans,
hammocks, swing chairs, sun loungers, fresh fruit and snacks upon arrival as well as lunch delivery. These Supervillas also feature a dedicated sun-shelf with water loungers and a water slide into the lagoon. There are four Supervillas – two over the Calypso Lagoon (adult-friendly and adults only areas near the DJ booth and swim-up bar), and two located over the Starfish Lagoon for families.
• Beach Supervillas: Two Beach Supervillas are located at the family-friendly beach and two at the adults-only beach. Ten guests can enjoy a memorable beach day with a sofa, armchairs, hammocks and sun loungers. Amenities also include locking cabinets, dining table for eight, mini fridge stocked with water and soft drinks and
cooling ceiling fans, along with fresh fruit and snacks upon arrival, as well as lunch delivery.
Guests looking to spend their day beyond Celebration Key can also choose from a variety of Carnival Adventures shore excursions now available for booking through May 2026. Various experiences allow guests to venture to other areas of Grand Bahama and offer a wide range of family, cultural and adventure activities, including a kayaking quest, a snorkeling safari, a tour of Grand Bahama by Jeep and a glass bottom boat experience. Additional shore excursion offerings will be added in the coming months.
For more information go to www.carnival.com.
Jacinda Lowry named Associate VP of Club Med
Club Med has named Jacinda Lowry as its new Associate Vice President as part of the brand’s continued expansion in North America and worldwide. Based in Toronto, Lowry will be responsible for gaining market share in the English Canada market, specifically Ontario. She will step into her new role in September 2024. She first joined Club Med in 2010 as Meetings and Events Director for the Canadian market. In her latest position as Sales Director, she led ambitious objectives to increase Club Med’s market share in Canada for groups and individual travels.
Nathan Scarazzati will join Lowry’s team as Regional Sales Director for the Quebec market starting Oct. 1, 2024. Scarazzati has been working for Club Med for six year, most recently as Data Business Intelligence Manager.
Jacinda Lowry PEOPLE
Pearl Cove Beach Club
Fall dates announced for Granite Travel Trade Expos
OAKVILLE Fall dates have dropped for the Granite Travel Trade Expos following two successful seasons of shows across Canada.
Taking place in smaller markets, the fall expos, as with previous seasons, are designed to connect industry suppliers and top-producing travel agents and facilitate in-person consultations and presentations. Each show will focus on training and networking and include a presentation series featuring 15-minute segments by suppliers, followed by a trade show, dinner and prize giveaways.
The fall 2024 schedule is as follows:
WESTERN CANADA
• Winnipeg, MB: Oct. 7, 2024
• Victoria, BC: Oct. 9, 2024
• Langley, BC: Oct. 10, 2024
ONTARIO
• Ottawa: Nov. 4, 2024 (sold out – waiting list)
• Richmond Hill/ Vaughan: Nov. 5, 2024
• London: Nov. 6, 2024
• Hamilton/Burlington: Nov. 7, 2024
“We’ve seen incredible growth with the last two seasons of our shows, and many suppliers are already committed to return this year,” says Bradley Dean, Oakville Toronto Partner, Granite Productions. “We
designed the Granite Travel Trade Expos to be an intimate and engaging experience for both vendors and travel agent attendees. To maintain this experience, capacity and vendor space are limited. We don’t want to be the biggest, just the most effective.”
Returning title sponsors are Bahia Principe Hotels and Resorts and St. Kitts Tourism. Sensira Resorts & Spa is the Food Sponsor, while Catalonia Hotels and Resorts is once again providing $20 pre-paid Mastercards to the first 50 agents who arrive at each event.
There are more than 50 suppliers confirmed to attend the various expos, including: Amstar DMC; Bahamas Tourism; BlueBay Hotels; Princess Hotels and Resorts Jamaica and Dominican Republic; Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya; Majestic Resorts; Nassau & Paradise Island; Riverside Cruises; The Palace Resorts; Cuba Tourist Board; Jamaica Tourist Board; Palladium Hotel Group; Oasis Hotels; Expedia TAAP; Carnival Cruise Line; and WestJet Vacations.
Dean is urging vendors to register now. Multi-show vendor discounts of up to 15% are available. Contact Dean directly at brad@graniteproductions. ca for details.
Registration for travel agents does not open until one month prior to each expo. Agents can register at https:// granitetravelexpos.com/agents/.
The Granite Travel Trade Expos are set to expand in 2025 with 21 locations, including for the first time, Atlantic Canada.
Holland America and Seabourn combine sales teams, Seabourn’s Smotrys to depart in September
SEATTLE Holland America Line and Seabourn are consolidating their respective sales teams into a singular force for the North America and Australia trade regions.
The cruise lines, both of which are two divisions of Carnival Corporation and plc, will have a combined sales team led by Rob Coleman, who was promoted to senior vice president of North America and Australia sales. Coleman continues to report to Beth Bodensteiner, chief commercial officer for Holland America Line.
Most recently, Coleman served as Holland America Line’s vice president of North America Sales. Prior to that role, he was vice president, charter, incentive and series partnership. He joined Holland America Line in 1999 as an inside sales representative.
Said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line: “Over the past 25 years, Rob has been an invaluable asset to Holland America Line’s sales team. With his expertise, he is poised to lead Holland American Line and Seabourn in an exciting opportunity to further build and expand trade alliances.”
Coleman added: “Our field sales team already is experienced in representing both Holland America Line and Seabourn, and combining forces makes us a powerhouse. This will be highly beneficial for travel advisors who already work with both brands, providing consistency, focus and enhanced support for their business.”
Granite Travel Trade Expo, Spring 2024
Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn, also noted that “combining the two sales teams enables us to leverage and integrate industry-leading reporting, analytics and commercial trade programs for both brands.”
With the new structure, Tara Schreiner was promoted to vice president of national and strategic partnerships for Holland America and Seabourn. Steve Smotrys, Seabourn’s vice president, sales and trade relations, will be leaving the company in September.
“Steve’s leadership has been invaluable in his roles at Cunard, Princess and Seabourn over the years and we wish him the best,” said Leahy.
Travel advisors can connect with their BDM and the sales team through OneSourceCruises.com or by emailing sales@hollandamerica. com. For more information, call 1-800-426-0327.
Rocky Mountaineer celebrates 25,000th guest on U.S. route
VANCOUVER Rocky Mountaineer is celebrating a major milestone with a new limited-time offer on one of its most popular routes.
The iconic rail company has welcomed its 25,000th guest on its ‘Rockies to the Red Rocks’ route, which launched in 2021 as Rocky Mountaineer’s first-ever U.S. route. Travelling between Denver, Glenwood Springs and Moab, the route allows guests to experience the best of the U.S. Southwest, known for its red rock formations, canyons and mountain vistas.
To celebrate the milestone, now through Oct. 20, Rocky Mountaineer is offering special discounts on 2024 ‘Rockies to the Red Rocks’ two-day rail journeys with its Southwest Season Finale promotion, available on SilverLeaf Service and SilverLeaf Plus Service. Details are as follows:
CroisiEurope launches Canadian B2B website
TORONTO CroisiEurope has launched a new Canadian B2B website amid growing demand for river cruises from travel advisor partners.
Available in French and English, the website offers privileged access to a member space that includes:
• Prices in Canadian dollars
• Overview of all cruises proposed worldwide plus its fleet of ships
• Management, information and booking tools
• Access to exclusive resources like photos and videos
• Access to company brochures
• Personalized and up-todate information
According to the family-owned French company, the new website “is part of a growth and development strategy in the Canadian market. “Our partners are our intermediaries with consumers, and we want to provide them with the maximum information, efficiency and support to help them grow their river cruise sales with CroisiEurope,” says the company.
THIS WILL BE HIGHLY BENEFICIAL FOR TRAVEL ADVISORS WHO ALREADY WORK WITH BOTH BRANDS.
• RAIL ONLY: US$500 off per couple / US$1,000 off per person
– Can$1,400 off per couple / Can$700 off per person
– Book by Oct. 20, 2024
• PACKAGES: US$1,500 off per couple / US$750 off per person
– Can$2,100 off per couple / Can$1,050 off per person
– Book by Oct. 13, 2024
For more information click here.
Established in 1976, CroisiEurope owns 50 vessels including canal barges, river and ocean ships, with capacities ranging from 8-100 cabins. These intimate-sized ships offer a casual atmosphere in a French and European environment. Both French and English are spoken onboard all ships.
To view the new website go to https: //pro-ca.croisieurope.com/en/login.
Rocky Mountaineer’s 25,000 guests, Shirley and Don
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