Travelweek - March 31st, 2022

Broome, Western Australia

Great Ocean Road, Victoria

Trip Giveaway For Travel

About TourRadar

TourRadar, the leading Adventure Booking Platform with more than 50,000 organized adventures across the globe and a network of 2,500+ reputable operators, recently launched its Partner Portal for travel advisors. Now, you can easily search, compare, and book multi-day adventures for your clients while earning a competitive commission. What’s not to love? Hurry, and sign up with TourRadar before April 29, 2022 and you’ll also get entered to win a trip for two to Egypt!

Amid rising prices, war worries and staff shortages, here’s how agents and tour ops are riding the recovery wave

By Kathryn Folliott

TORONTO — Travel’s recovery in the wake of COVID-19 has its share of new challenges but travel advisors and tour operators say they’ll take them after two years of pandemic restrictions, worry and hardship.

Prices are on the rise, and the Ukraine situation remains a concern. There’s under-staffing and long turnaround times for quotes. And the inquiry-to-close ratio is still high for many.

And yet the trade is handling it all with characteristic determination and finesse. “FINALLY there’s some real momentum,” says Gateways International’s Director, Marketing & Operations, Talia May, adding that overall “people are truly eager to travel.”

The old saying ‘the devil you know is better than the devil you don’t’ certainly doesn’t apply to the travel industry right now, as the industry works to meet the new challenges head-on.

Here’s a look at what agents and tour ops are grappling with right now.

HIGHER PRICES

There’s a lot of talk about high prices, from cost-of-living concerns and inflation, to airfares heading skyward because of rising fuel prices and strong demand.

“People really need to act fast. Flight costs are high indeed,” says May. Space is dwindling too, with availability already slim for popular destinations like Italy for the summertime, she adds.

While the travel industry is all too aware of the rising prices, some say

they’re not hearing those worries from their clients yet.

Laurielle Penny, Managing Director, Worldwide Quest says traveller concerns right now are not so much about rising prices and availability, “although they should be concerned because prices are rising and availability is very tight everywhere. It’s more around safety related to the Ukraine situation. There is starting to be some concern about rising airfares due to the fuel prices increasing, so [there’s] pressure on folks to book flights now and then get the land arrangements in place.”

Sandra McLeod of Red Door Travel in LaSalle, ON says so far pushback on pricing is rare. But she has an effective response ready for when the subject does come up. “I remind them of the prices we see at the gas pump and grocery store and that companies have been suffering for 2+ years. Reality quickly kicks in.”

Sandy Willett with Vision Travel in Waterloo, ON says many of her

clients are in fact making the most of their pandemic savings:“Prices do not seem to be a concern for most people – they are just so happy to be travelling again that they figure they’ve been nowhere for two years and are willing to pay more now.”

Agents and tour operators alike are still seeing much shorter than usual booking windows too. “I had some last minute March Break trips - within a week of departure,” says McLeod. And Willett reports a lot of people are booking last-minute, even for trips to Europe and beyond. On March 23, she had an inquiry for Egypt in April.

WAR & COVID WORRIES

Willett also notes that her bookings to Europe are starting to pick up, “although some clients have expressed a concern about the war in Ukraine.”

In the first days Russia’s invasion of Ukraine sparked a flurry of port changes for cruise companies ahead

of spring and summer departure dates. Now the industry is waiting to see what impact the invasion will have on European land bookings.

McLeod says she’s only hearing hesitation from clients who were planning to go to Russia. “No one is hesitant about going to Europe,” she says. “Most want to go and they’re not feeling especially concerned.”

Gateways’ May says she’s hearing more war than COVID concerns at this point, however most of her clients are proceeding with their long-awaited getaway plans.

Over at Collette, GM Brett Walker says bookings from Collette’s U.S. operations are doing well, and Canada is recovering too, slowly. “The invasion and war in Ukraine is stifling things, but no one really knows how much. I would suggest if there is any reprieve from the war, we will see a big surge in bookings.”

Looking at Collette’s booking trends from the U.S. and Canadian markets, Walker says: “The U.S. market is faring well. In the U.S. we are trending about 87% compared to 2019. Some of this is bolstered by Oberammergau bookings. Obviously, event bookings or once-in-a-lifetime events are much more sticky. Most bookings for Oberammergau were booked for 2020 and rebooked for 2022. In Canada, however, we only trending at about 49% (2022 compared to 2019). The market is much more sluggish and that’s I think because the market is only now recovering. Canada has been opened and closed in fits

and starts which made consumers both weary from the last two years and wary about the future.”

Collette’s Travel Protection, with its cancel for any reason waiver, has been an extremely effective closing tool, he adds. “Consumers want control and this plan gives them everything. On top of the cancel for any reason waiver there is also the out-of-country travel insurance that is one price for all – regardless of age. I’ve been told by agents that, without the waiver, many customers wouldn’t have had the confidence to book.”

The buy rate for Collette’s Travel Protection Plan has skyrocketed to about 85% of all bookings, says Walker.

STAFF SHORTAGES & SLOW TURNAROUNDS

Two years of travel’s fits and starts have agents eager to close sales, and complete bookings. But there are challenges on those scores too.

Gilbert Manza, Owner, Executive Travel Services Inc., Woodbridge, ON, says his inquiry-to-closing is still higher than he would like. He attributes that to client hesitancy. “My clients are keen on travelling but there seems to be this sense of uneasiness that has been prevalent in almost all my conversations, because of [the war and COVID concerns], plus the economic impact of higher costs for fuel, food etc. I really think this has put a bit of a damper on people. The pentup demand is there and people do want to travel. A lot of people take the quotes, thank me for the info and basically just ponder if they should or should not commit. I have closed a number of sales, however the ratio from inquiries to

closing sales should be better.”

And when clients are finally ready to book, that process can be slow too. Part of the problem has been the sudden surge in demand, and staffing shortages.

Says Manza: “Getting group quotes, etc is taking longer than usual and this is most likely attributed to the shortage in trained staff, it’s across all industries and ours is no exception.”

The frustration isn’t just felt by travel agents. “The booking situation now is chaotic!” says Worldwide Quest’s Penny. “The biggest challenge is that everyone is understaffed – hotels, tour operators overseas, etc. – and overwhelmed with last minute bookings. I think it’s going to take a while before the industry is back to effective staffing levels. Everyone is concerned about when to staff up, particularly with the terrible situation in Ukraine following right after COVID, and no one knowing how that will impact.”

THE ROAD AHEAD

The retail travel sector, and independent agents in particular, is also still watching for any sign of further government aid. The federal budget will be unveiled on April 7.

In the meantime travel advisors are making the best of a still-unprecedented situation. “Simply stated – we are OVERWHELMED with inquiries – there are not enough hours in a day. But most clients are patient knowing that,” says Willett.

As Manza puts it, “we will keep grinding away because we believe and love this business, but it has been a challenge keeping positive with all these obstacles that we have to navigate”.

TRAVELWEEK

130 Queens Quay East, Suite 512, Toronto, Ontario M5A 0P6

Tel: 416.365.1500 Fax: 416.365.1504 Toll-free: 1.855.392.8820 Web: www.travelweek.ca

SUBSCRIPTION RATES (PER YEAR)

Canada: $85 Canadian + $4.25 GST per year

United States & International: $100 US per year

SOCIAL MEDIA

CONTENTS COPYRIGHTED

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada.

circulation inquiries please email circulation@travelweek.ca

The resort boasts newly-revamped beach clubs, an adults-only section with daily activities, including a DJ and foam parties, redesigned areas for kids and teens, as well as a holistic wellness program for 3,5 and 7 night stays to fully restore the mind, body and soul.

Discover The Fives' new sensorial activities that cater to all travellers

We asked 3 insurance providers how Canada’s lowered travel advisory impacts travel insurance

By Cindy Sosroutomo

TORONTO — Few things highlight the importance of travel insurance like a pandemic. But in a Catch-22, a pandemic can also make it really difficult to purchase travel insurance.

This is why when the federal government finally lowered Canada’s travel advisory on Feb. 28, 2022 from Level 3 to Level 2, travellers across the country breathed a collective sigh of relief. The Level 3 advisory, which had been re-instated on Dec. 15 due to the Omicron variant, was met with frustration across the travel industry and resulted in a wave of cancelled bookings for many travel agents. But now, with Level 2 and the government no longer recommending that Canadians avoid travel for non-essential purposes, Canadians have not only been given the green light to travel, but have gained greater access to a wider variety of travel insurance options.

“Insurers were unlikely to issue new trip cancellation or travel health policies for destinations under a Level 3 travel advisory,” says Joan Weir, Vice President, Group Benefits, Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association (CLHIA). “But with the lowered Level 2 advisory, those planning to travel are able to get all types of travel insurance, including trip cancellation and travel health for most destinations.”

Weir does note that COVID-19 and its variants should still be treated as a concern for travellers, and recommends going to the Government of Canada’s travel website for the latest travel advice and advisories.

“While all types of travel insurance are now available, travellers should be aware of the requirements to enter any particular country and the availability of healthcare should there be a need,” she says. “It’s also very important to realize that the situation and restrictions at destination can change at any time, and to be prepared for that.”

Though travellers are still being advised to travel with caution as part of the Level 2 advisory, given the spread of Omicron, the fact that restrictions are finally easing and travel insurance is now readily available are worth celebrating. We asked Manulife, Allianz Global Assistance Canada and TuGo what travel agents should know about travel insurance at this stage of the pandemic, particularly now that the travel advisory has been lowered. Here’s what they had to say:

Travelweek: How has the lowered travel advisory impacted your existing travel insurance policies?

Manulife: Prior to the advisory being lowered, individuals required our COVID-19 Pandemic Travel Plan to be covered for COVID-19 related illness while in destination. This is due to our core medical policies having a travel advisory exclusion, which limits coverage in destinations where there is an “Avoid non-essential travel (Level 3) or “Avoid all travel” (Level 4) advisory. With the advisory level lowered, Emergency Medical Insurance within our core plans now covers COVID-19 related illness.

Julia Deanne Koene, Corporate Communications, Allianz Global Assistance Canada: While it’s important to choose coverage based on individual needs, with the lifting of the Level 3 global travel advisory, emergency medical expenses related to COVID-19 are now eligible under our standard plans as long as on the policy effective date, there is no Level 3 or Level 4 travel advisory related to COVID-19 in effect at the destination.

Brad Dance, Chief Customer Officer, TuGo and Travel Health Insurance Association (THIA) past president: The travel advisory level change doesn’t impact our vaccinated customers who had Emergency Medical Insurance, since TuGo began offering coverage for COVID-19 regardless of travel advisory level back in November 2021. We have been insuring Canadians for travel outside of Canada, including cruise travel, since then. Our customers have been able to travel knowing they have coverage if/when they need it.

With the lowering of travel advisory, TuGo has seen a further uptick in travel insurance purchases, for travellers of all ages. Traveller confidence has continued to increase with the Government of Canada lowering the advisory level, suggesting it’s safer to travel now. We anticipate even more uptake now, with the testing requirements ending April 1.

Travelweek: Would you say it’s easier for travellers to obtain travel insurance now?

Manulife: There are now more plan options available to customers who are looking for complete package coverage. With the advisory being lowered, our Premium Protection Plan and All-Inclusive Plan both include Emergency Medical coverage for COVID-19, as well as Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption Insurance benefits.  It’s important not to lose sight of insuring the cost of the trip prior to departure, as 70% of claims traditionally occur prior to departure.

Koene (Allianz): The same terms and conditions apply and clients must meet all eligibility requirements to obtain travel insurance coverage.

Dance (TuGo): Yes, it will be easier; some providers aren’t in the position to offer coverage when the travel advisory is a level 3 or 4. But, it’s still essential for travellers to review the policy before they purchase it and again before departure, so they’re well aware of how the policy covers or excludes travel advisories.

Travelweek: What stipulations, if any, are still in place when obtaining travel insurance with a Level 2 travel advisory? What should travel agents know?

Manulife: As recommended by the Government of Canada, insureds need to be fully vaccinated for at least 14 days before departing on their trip in order to be covered for COVID-19 on our core medical plans. The pandemic has certainly highlighted the importance of travel insurance. With Canadians longing to travel again, we feel strongly that our travel agency partners are feeling more comfortable and confident than even before in selling our products.  Through all of our targeted training over the past 24 months, thousands of travel professionals attended numerous

training sessions to better educate themselves on travel insurance options during the pandemic and moving forward.

Koene (Allianz): COVID-19 remains a known event for Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption. For policies with Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption benefits that were purchased on or after March 11, 2020, any Trip Cancellation or Trip Interruption claims related to previous or future Government of Canada travel advisories connected to COVID-19 will continue to not be payable.

As the situation with COVID-19 continues to evolve, we recommend everyone follow Government of Canada travel advisories and regularly review COVID-19 requirements for their departure, arrival at their destination, and return to Canada.

Dance (TuGo): The Canadian Government provides advice to help travellers make informed decisions about whether the destination is safe to travel to or not. There will always be some level of risk in travel; travellers should do their due diligence to prepare for the unexpected.

One thing I think is always a good reminder is to follow THIA’s Travel Insurance Bill of Rights & Responsibilities, which acknowledge that the traveller has a responsibility to understand their policy; and if they don’t, to seek assistance.

In terms of travel agents, it’s important to know the value of offering Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance, particularly during uncertain times.

Trip Cancellation covers the non-refundable costs of a trip if something happens before the departure date, causing the traveller to cancel the trip. Trip Interruption covers events that happen after departure, causing the traveller to interrupt the trip, or to return earlier or later than their original return date.

Plus, TuGo offers an add-on option called ‘Cancel For Any Reason.’ The traveller can cancel their trip for any reason (that isn’t already listed as a covered risk in the policy), and be reimbursed up to 50% of pre-paid travel costs that are non-refundable, and non-transferable, if they cancel more than 5 days before the scheduled departure date. What’s often misunderstood with this coverage is that it must be purchased in the 5 days of paying for, or making a deposit on, the booking or any time before a cancellation penalty from the travel supplier applies.

Lastly, it’s always essential to ensure that the traveller is adequately eligible for coverage; reviewing eligibility requirements, confirming pre-existing medical conditions and accurately completing a Medical Questionnaire are all applicable factors. None of these variables have changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

CRUISES

Swan Hellenic has announced a series of changes to its 202223 cultural expedition cruises. The cruise line says the move is in response to the situation in Ukraine, and also to ongoing COVID-related restrictions across the Far East. SH Minerva will set a new course with additional UK Celtic discovery sailings. Meanwhile SH Vega is now due to launch in September 2022 and will join SH Minerva for the 2022-23 Antarctica season. “We’ve moved fast in response to the tragic situation in Ukraine,” said Andrea Zito, CEO, Swan Hellenic. “While apologizing to our guests for the disappointment this has caused and grateful for their understanding, we’re very proud of the exciting new itineraries and opportunities we’ve created for them to continue seeing what others don't.”

HOTELS

Marriott International has signed an agreement to enter the safari segment in Africa. The move is part of a new deal with Baraka Lodges. JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge will be located within the Mara National Reserve, and is expected to open its doors in 2023. Marriott International currently operates more than 120 properties in Africa across its portfolio. JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge will join Marriott Bonvoy’s growing portfolio of 8,000 hotels globally. Conservation of the land and its inhabitants will be at the heart of JW Marriott Masai Mara. The safari lodge aims to employ up to 50 locals from the Masai community.

POLICIES

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with George Brown College to establish a satellite office in Toronto for the Global Tourism Resilience Centre. The GTRCMC is an initiative by the Jamaican government and the UNWTO, established in 2018 by Minister Bartlett and Dr. Taleb Rafai, the former Secretary General of the UNWTO. The GTRCMC is a global think tank that focuses exclusively on building resilience and managing crises that disrupt tourism. The main GTRCMC is based at the University of the West Indies’ Mona Campus in Jamaica. The satellite centre at Toronto’s George Brown College is the first Canadian partner of the GTRCMC. Minister Bartlett says the partnership comes at a critical time for the travel and tourism industry, as it recovers from the pandemic and deals with economic fallout from the ongoing war in Eastern Europe.

UKRAINE RELIEF

More travel companies are showing their support for

Ukraine. Transat is launching a fundraising campaign to assist SOS Children’s Villages, its long-time partner, that has rapidly scaled up its response in Ukraine to meet the critical needs of some 500,000 children and families affected by the conflict. Air Transat passengers can also make a donation onboard flights, a collection made possible by the engagement of its crews. Meanwhile AmaWaterways has made available a river cruise vessel to provide temporary accommodations for refugees arriving into Amsterdam. The first families, made up primarily of women and children, arrived on March 21.

AIRLINES

Lynx Air takes off from Calgary to Vancouver on April 7. The ULCC will be flying to destinations including: Victoria; Vancouver; Kelowna; Edmonton; Calgary; Winnipeg; Toronto; Hamilton; Halifax and St. John's. Upon launch, the airline will have a fleet of three new B737s, which will expand to a total of 36 over the next 7 years. Crew uniforms include a red and white colour scheme and a Lynx paw print in sky blue.

are very focused on the travel trade”: Canada Jetlines readies for launch

TORONTO — The runway has been long but Canada Jetlines is finally ready for takeoff, and poised to reap the rewards of two years’ worth of pent-up demand for travel.

The carrier’s first flights are scheduled to start in July 2022, at the peak of the summer when many Canadians will be eager to say so long to the pandemic’s travel restrictions, and hello to their first real getaway in more than 24 months.

In some ways, the timing couldn’t be better for the airline. Start-up plans came and went over the past several years, under different executive teams. The executive team in place now – including Eddy Doyle as CEO, and another industry veteran, Duncan Bureau, as Chief Commercial Officer – has shown momentum from the get-go.

EAGER TO WORK WITH AGENTS

Doyle, Bureau and other Canada Jetlines executives and board members were on hand at a recent industry briefing at Region of Waterloo International Airport, showcasing

the company’s very first A320. The airline has received its stage 1 licensing approval from the CTA.

There’s no word yet on what specific destinations Canada Jetlines will be serving with its first flights in July, but indications are Florida and/or the Caribbean.

What is certain is that Canada Jetlines is eager to work with travel agents.

“We are very focused on our relationship with the travel trade. We believe you are going to help us make this a very successful airline. And we thank all travel agents for the work that they’re doing,” said Bureau.

“When you look at how we’re going to strategically align with travel agency partners, we want them to start seeing revenue right away,” he said.

“Our economic model will be very different from what’s in the marketplace today and we’re willing and excited to work with our travel agency partners.”

Bureau added that he and his commercial team at Canada Jetlines are “looking forward to dropping by your offices and getting those commercial agreements in place, and those partnerships.”

Bureau will be a familiar face and friend to many at those agency meetings. Bureau is well-known in the Canadian travel industry from his early days at Canadian

Airlines and WestJet, to Malaysia Airlines, and then to Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge.

In October 2021 Canada Jetlines announced its partnership with Softvoyage. The tech provider will provide the airline with distribution via the group’s network, both on a B2B and B2C basis. Softvoyage’s SIREV is used by more than 90% of Canada’s travel advisors.

“MUCH BETTER DAYS ARE AHEAD”

Doyle spoke to the industry’s pandemic-era challenges over the past two years, and counting.

“To all our friends in the travel industry, the past two years have been extremely difficult,” said Doyle.

“But with the recent lifting of the travel restrictions by the Canadian government, and the tremendous pent-up demand for travel out there, much better days are ahead. And we are looking forward to working with all of you, to provide Canadians with a great travel product. We are quite excited about the future here, as we are about to launch.”

KEEPING AN EYE ON OVERCAPACITY

The verdict is still out on what the months ahead will look like, and whether the industry will see overcapacity and price wars.

“We

WE BELIEVE YOU ARE GOING TO HELP US MAKE THIS A VERY SUCCESSFUL AIRLINE.

Along with Canada Jetlines’ arrival this summer, there’s Lynx Airlines, and expansions from Flair Airlines, and soon from Porter Airlines too. That’s in addition to restored networks from Air Canada, Air Canada Rouge, Swoop and WestJet, still set to buy Sunwing.

Bureau had this to say: “We are not in a position where our competitors are, where they have had a tough couple of years in terms of their balance sheet. We’re starting with a fresh balance sheet. And as we’re reaching out to the travel community across Canada, the U.S., the Caribbean, what we’re getting is a really amazing response.”

15 AIRCRAFT BY 2025

At last count, Canada Jetlines had three more A320s scheduled to come into service this July. The fleet will increase to seven by summer 2023, 12 by summer 2024 and 15 by summer 2025.

The aircraft will offer economy class seating, plus extra-comfort seats available at a premium. At least at its December 2021 overview, the goal for 2023 is growth out of Toronto and new direct flights to the Caribbean from Atlantic Canada. By 2024 the airline

People

wants to enter the Western Canadian market, and continue to expand through 2025 with more U.S. and Caribbean destinations from gateways across Canada.

U.S. Travel urges White House to eliminate pre-departure testing for inbound travellers

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Travel Association is urging the U.S. government to lift travel restrictions including pre-departure COVID testing requirements, for all fully vaccinated inbound international travellers.

A letter from Roger Dow, U.S. Travel’s chief executive, to the White House, said: “It makes little sense to keep the pre-departure testing requirement in place for inbound air travellers when the U.S. government does not require negative

tests at U.S.-Canada and U.S.-Mexico land border points of entry.”

U.S. Travel is calling for an immediate end to the pre-departure test requirement. The group is also urging the U.S. government to wind down the masking mandate for air travel and other modes of transportation, by April 18. That’s the day the mandate could lift, after it was renewed in March 2022.

It’s also asking the Biden administration to end travel bans for fully vaccinated travellers.

Canada’s pre-arrival test requirement is set to end April 1, for fully vaccinated travellers. Canada still requires masks on planes and other modes of transportation, and also requires all air, rail and ship travellers to be fully vaccinated.

Tourism gets strong start in

UNWTO

MADRID — International tourism gained incredible momentum at the start of the year, says UNWTO, however, the Russian invasion of Ukraine could hamper recovery.

Skinner now

VP,

Leisure Sales and Operations at Vision

Vision Travel has promoted Julie Skinner to the role of Vice President, Leisure Sales and Operations for the Canada West region, including all provinces from B.C. to Ontario. In her new role, Skinner will be responsible for every aspect of the leisure travel experience for clients and for the expansion of the company’s Independent Travel Advisor program, which currently includes nearly 300 advisors. She began her career as a travel advisor in 1989 and joined the company in 2010, and is also known in the sporting world for her accomplishments as a curler: a four-time Canadian champion, two-time World Champion and two-time Olympic Bronze Medalist.

In conjunction with Skinner’s promotion, Vision Travel will be hiring multiple regional managers in the Western provinces. Skinner, who is based in Victoria, can be reached at (250) 412-1871, 1-877-412-1887, ext. 8871, or at julie. skinner@visiontravel.ca.

Based on the latest available data, global international tourist arrivals more than doubled (+130%) in January 2022 compared to 2021. These 18 million more visitors recorded worldwide in the first month of this year equals the total increase for the whole of 2021. However, following the 71% decline of 2021, international arrivals in January 2022 remained 67% below pre-pandemic levels.

All regions recorded a significant rebound in January 2022, though from low levels seen at the start of 2021. Europe (+199%) and the Americas (+97%) continued to

2022 but faces new challenges:

post the strongest results, with international arrivals still around half pre-pandemic levels (-53% and -52%, respectively).

As of last week, 12 destinations had no COVID-19-related restrictions in place, while an increasing number of destinations were easing or lifting travel restrictions.

THE UKRAINE FACTOR

The war in Ukraine poses new challenges to the global economic environment and risks hampering the return of confidence in global travel. The U.S. and the Asian source markets, which have begun to open up, could be particularly impacted, especially regarding travel to Europe, as these markets are historically more risk averse.

The shutdown of Ukrainian and Russian airspace, as well as the ban on Russian carriers by many European countries is affecting intra-European travel. It is also causing detours in long-haul flights between Europe and East Asia, which translates into longer flights and higher costs.

Russia and Ukraine accounted for a combined 3% of global spending on international tourism in 2020 and at least US$14 billion in global tourism receipts could be lost if the conflict is prolonged. The importance of both markets is

significant for neighbouring countries, but also for European sun and sea destinations.

THE FORECAST

Even though UNWTO says it’s too early to assess the impact, air travel searches and bookings across various channels showed a slowdown the week after the invasion but started to rebound in early March. It is certain that the war will add further pressure to already challenging economic conditions, says UNWTO, undermining consumer confidence.

The recent spike in oil prices and rising inflation are making accommodation and transport services more expensive, adding extra pressure on businesses, consumer purchasing power and savings, UNWTO notes.

Air Canada to acquire 26 new A321XLR aircraft by 2027

MONTREAL — Air Canada has announced plans to enhance its fleet with 26 extra-long range (XLR) versions of the Airbus A321neo aircraft.

Featuring sufficient range to serve all North American and select transatlantic markets, deliveries of the new aircraft are to begin in the first quarter of 2024, with the final aircraft to arrive in the first quarter of 2027.

“Air Canada is committed to further strengthen its market-leading position, especially through investments in new technology. The acquisition of the state-ofthe-art Airbus A321XLR is an important element of this strategy and will drive our core priorities of elevating the customer experience, advancing our environmental goals, network expansion, and

increasing our overall cost efficiency,” says Michael Rousseau, Air Canada’s President and CEO.

“This order also shows that Air Canada is emerging strongly from the pandemic and is ideally positioned to grow, compete and thrive in a reshaped global aviation industry,” he adds.

The new aircraft will be replacing older, less-efficient aircraft that are expected to exit the fleet. They will accommodate 182 passengers in a configuration of 14 lie-flat Air Canada Signature Class seats and 168 Economy Class seats. With a range of approximately 8,700 kilometres and an ability to fly up to 11 hours, the A321XLR can operate nonstop anywhere across North America and, pending Transport Canada approval for overseas operations, also fly transatlantic routes. Air Canada is in the process of selecting an engine manufacturer the new aircraft.

Among the amenities onboard will be next-generation seatback entertainment, access to inflight WiFi and a spacious cabin design featuring generous overhead baggage storage bins.

With the more efficient aircraft, Air Canada projects it will have up to 17% lower fuel burn per seat than the previous generation narrow-body on a typical transcontinental flight, and a projected reduction of up to 23% versus previous generation wide-body

THIS AIRCRAFT ORDER SHOWS THAT AIR CANADA IS EMERGING STRONGLY FROM THE PANDEMIC

Luxury is in the details at these spectacular resorts, where world-class service and upscale amenities meet

All new Sandals Royal Curaçao opening June 1

TORONTO —  The brand-new Sandals Royal Curaçao, opening June 1, 2022, marks Sandals Resorts’ entry into the sun-soaked island. Available for booking now, this highly-anticipated resort comes with all the comforts of home, not to mention over-the-top luxurious details that will make any stay a dream come true:

Dos Awas Pool: Sandals’ first two-level infinity pool offers expansive views from both the upper and lower decks.

Location, location, location: Sandals Royal Curaçao is set on 44 oceanfront acres all set within the desirable Santa Barbara 3-000 acre estate, 15 miles from the airport.

Nice ride: A first for Sandals, a convertible MINI Cooper is complimentary for guests staying in the Kurason Island Suites and Awa Seaside Bungalows, to explore every inch of the island.

Pool time: Sandals Royal Curaçao is home to an incredible natural salt-water, ocean-fed pool featuring a sandy bottom.

Unique Dining: Guests have a selection of eight restaurants on site, seven of which are exclusive to Sandals Royal Curaçao.

• Vincent: European fusion presented on a sleek, minimalist canvas

• Pietra: Italian eatery serving Southern Italian dishes

• Gatsu gatsu: Exotic sushi creations using the most delectable seafood

• Aolos: An authentic open-air Mediterranean dining experience

• Kanaal: Dutch cafe by day, wine and cheese bar by night

• Strand Seafood House: The freshest fish and seafood just steps from the sandy shore

• Zuka: Culinary traditions and flavours of Central and South America

• Butch’s: Serving up the highest quality grain-fed Midwestern beef

Meals on wheels: There are also three new beachside food trucks that offer incredible eats right by the water: Toteki (Curaçao fare), La Palma (Spanish tapas) and Kishi (Asian fusion & bao buns).

13 bars: Unlimited premium liquors are included 24/7 and served throughout the resort.

Ultimate receptions: The resort boasts the largest reception space on the island, totalling 38,000 square feet. Whether guests are hosting business meetings or a glamourous wedding, the perfect venue exists at Sandals Royal Curaçao.

Additional highlight at Sandals Royal Curaçao include PADI-certified scuba diving, unlimited land and water sports, direct roundtrip airport transfers, Dutch bicycles for guest use, and much more.

For more information go to sandals.com/royal-curacao.

AMR Collection to debut two new resorts in Playa del Carmen

TORONTO — The countdown is on for the debut of two new properties for AMR Collection: Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen and Secrets Impression Moxché, both in Mexico.

Opening April 18, 2022, Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen will offer 485 rooms, nine dining options including seven à la carte restaurants, one buffet, a Barefoot Grill and Coco Café, as well as a wide variety of spaces for gatherings of all kinds. Luxury suites come equipped with rain showers, Nespresso machines and large terraces that feature exquisite architecture and ample space that allow for private celebrations, cocktails and events.

Opening just weeks later, on June 1, 2022, is Secrets Impression Moxché. This 198-suite, contemporary oasis offers high-end services and amenities, with most suites offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the island of Cozumel on the horizon. All guests staying at Secrets Impression Moxché will be granted free-flow access to Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen, including the Preferred Club areas. Those who reserve a Master Suite, OceanFront Panoramic Suite, Two-Story Penthouse Suite or Presidential Villa will also be treated to elevated concierge service and butler service.

In addition to nine unique dining options at Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen, Secrets Impression

Moxché boasts three exclusive Impression restaurants, including a rooftop eatery, a beachfront restaurant and complimentary access to the author’s signature restaurant featuring a daily rotating menu and wine pairing. Impressions guests also enjoy complimentary access to exclusive dining experiences at the 12-seat sushi bar located within the Japanese restaurant and a taco tasting at Mezcal & Tequila bar.

Rounding out the Impressions highlights are a rooftop terrace with amazing views of Cozumel, a private lounge, an infinity pool with 360-degree views, and a premier dedicated beach area with exclusive wait service.

Together, these two resorts will offer a variety of amenities, including gourmet cuisine by world renowned chefs, three man-made cenotes, seven heated pools including one interior beach-inspired pool designed for intimate gatherings, a rooftop sky wedding gazebo, state-of-the-art meeting rooms, and the expansive Spa by Pevonia. The resorts will also be in close proximity to snorkelling, diving, and the famous 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen, a fivemile, pedestrian-only walkway dedicated to tourists. Guests can find entertainment all around,

For more information go to amrcollection.com.

Turning

moments into memories for 40 years What creates the perfect moment? It’s pristine white-sand beaches enveloped by the bluest waters, where couples can play, or chill. It’s luxurious sanctuaries made for romance at water’s edge, or directly over the water. It’s a mouthwatering gourmet creation and a creatively crafted cocktail. But, most of all, the perfect moment is found in the details, an art that we’ve perfected with our Luxury Included ® Vacation. Sandals ® Resorts has been turning moments into memories for 40 years—and we couldn’t have done it without you.

aircraft on a transatlantic flight. This, says the airline, will reduce greenhouse gas emissions to help Air Canada fulfill its environmental commitments, which include the achievement of net carbon neutrality by 2050. The A321XLR is also expected to be quieter for passengers and airports than the aircraft being replaced.

As of Dec. 31, 2021, Air Canada had a combined 214 aircraft in its mainline and Air Canada Rouge fleets, including 136 single-aisle, narrow-body aircraft.

Last month, the airline unveiled its restored summer 2022 network, both internationally and in North America. Its Q4 operating revenues in 2021, which totalled $2.73 billion, more than triple the $827 million recorded in the same period of 2020, showed encouraging indicators as the airline continues to recover from the pandemic.

New Zealand to reopen to Canadians on May 1

AUCKLAND — After two years of tight border measures, New Zealand is finally reopening to fully vaccinated international travellers, including Canadians.

According to the New Zealand Government, the country’s borders will reopen on May 1, 2022 at 11:59 p.m. to international visitors from visa waiver countries, including Canada, without needing to self-isolate on arrival, on provision of a negative pre-departure COVID-19 test.

The reopening comes two months earlier than planned. Last month, New Zealand announced its five-step reopening plan, which included fully vaccinated travellers from visa waiver countries, including Canada, being welcomed back

starting July 2022. The initial plan also required travellers to self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival.

“We look forward to welcoming manuhiri (visitors), family and friends back in May,” said Tourism New Zealand’s Chief Executive, René de Monchy. “New Zealand has plenty to offer international visitors, from breathtaking landscapes, rare and remarkable wildlife, to our rich culture and heritage. Our people and place are what make us unique, and we look forward to sharing this with the world again.”

All travellers entering New Zealand must be fully vaccinated in line with New Zealand government entry requirements.

A negative pre-departure test (PCR, LAMP or Rapid Antigen) in line with New Zealand government requirements is required for all travellers.

There is no compulsory requirement for all arriving travellers to either self-isolate or enter a government managed isolation hotel. All forms of isolation for arriving travellers (including foreign nationals) are removed at all border reopening steps except for unvaccinated New Zealand citizens and residents returning to the country.

All travellers will be provided with two rapid antigen tests at no charge on arrival at Auckland Airport, which are self-administered

after exit from the airport.

Travellers will be asked to undertake the first test on day of arrival and then a second test on day 5/6 after arrival. This can be done once travellers have left the airport (ie. at home or hotel).

Travellers who test positive from either their arrival day or day 5/6 RAT test will be required to take a PCR test to confirm positive status. If positive they will then be asked to self-isolate in line with the requirements that apply to all community COVID-19 cases in New Zealand.

Canadians can get to New Zealand via a nonstop, 14-hour overnight flight. Air New Zealand resumed service between Vancouver-Auckland in February 2022.

OUR PEOPLE AND PLACES ARE WHAT MAKE US UNIQUE, AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO SHARING THIS WITH THE WORLD AGAIN

MT. TARANAKI, NEW ZEALAND

CDC finally drops Cruise Ship Travel Health Notice, to industry cheers

ATLANTA — After a long two years, the CDC has dropped its Cruise Ship Travel Health Notice.

While the CDC’s guidance technically applies only to U.S. citizens and companies operating out of the U.S., its decisions carry enormous weight globally. And this latest announcement is another major and positive development in the cruise industry’s recovery in the wake of the pandemic.

CDC spokesperson Dave Daigle said: “Travellers will make their own risk assessment when choosing to travel on a cruise ship, much like they do in all other travel settings.”

In response here’s what CLIA had to say: “Today’s decision by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to altogether remove the Travel Health Notice for cruising recognizes the effective public health measures in place on cruise ships and begins to level the playing field, between cruise and similarly situated venues on land, for the first time since March 2020.”

Virgin Voyages was one of the first out of the blocks with its own statement, in the wake of the CDC’s announcement.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to see that the CDC recognizes that it’s time to remove the Travel Health

Notice website,” said Virgin Voyages CEO, Tom McAlpin. “While we feel this was a long time coming, we recognize this move as a demonstration of all of the hard work this industry has done to ensure that we’re offering the safest way to travel. It’s refreshing to see them meet us where we’re at, and clearly where our consumers are at considering the major uptick in demand we’ve seen.”

McAlpin adds that Virgin Voyages, which officially launched in 2021 after a pandemic delay, is seeing “unprecedented demand” with bookings up nearly 120% from January to March 2022. Virgin Voyages now has two ships: Scarlet Lady with sailings in the Caribbean and Valiant Lady with sailings in the UK and launching from Barcelona this May. Virgin Voyages’ third ship, Resilient Lady, will debut in Athens this summer. The brand’s fourth ship will debut in 2023.

Holland America Line also weighed in with a statement.

“The CDC’s removal of its health notice related to cruise travel is an important step forward in recognizing the work we have done to protect our guests. At Holland America Line, we continue to operate vaccinated cruises and have created a safe and healthy environment for our guests, our teams, and the communities we serve, helping to ensure cruising is among the safest forms of socializing and travel,” said

Gus Antorcha, President, Holland America Line.

“With the remainder of our ships set to return to service in the coming weeks, Holland America Line is looking forward to safely welcoming more guests back to cruising this spring and summer as we explore Alaska, Canada, New England, and Europe,” he added.

Holland America recently extended its Worry-Free Promise to allow flexible cancelation for cruise bookings made by May 31 and embarking by Sept. 30, 2022.

Earlier this month the Canadian government downgraded Canada’s ban against cruise travel for Canadian travellers, instead advising cruise travellers to exercise a high level of caution.

WE’RE OFFERING THE SAFEST WAY TO TRAVEL. IT’S REFRESHING TO SEE THEM MEET US WHERE WE’RE AT, AND CLEARLY WHERE OUR CONSUMERS ARE AT CONSIDERING THE MAJOR UPTICK IN DEMAND WE’VE SEEN.

TDC signs partnership with top luxury player Virtuoso

MONTREAL — Patience is a virtue, or so the saying goes, and it could apply to just about the entire travel industry for the past two years.

It’s also an apt descriptor for Transat Distribution Canada’s journey to put together its LuxeXpert program, and ultimately collaborate with Virtuoso, the global retail travel network that has all but become synonymous with luxury travel.

As TDC General Manager Louise Fecteau tells it, TDC flagged the ever-growing luxury market as a top-tier focus for growth for TDC, all the way back in fall 2019. It would be TDC’s last in-person regional conference for quite a while, although no one knew it then.

By summer 2021, after more than a year of the pandemic, TDC was able to launch its new LuxeXpert program.

And just last month came word that certified LuxeXpert advisors would be invited to join Virtuoso.

The partnership was worth the wait, says Fecteau. “We’re very proud,” she said in an interview

with Travelweek. “Some of our members have asked to be part of Virtuoso for a long time.”

A travel advisor who’s part of the TDC network who wants to take the LuxeXpert program receives plenty of training, not so much on luxury product, “but on how to market that kind of trip, to know how to reach those luxury clients, and to know who’s a luxury client and who’s not,” Fecteau tells Travelweek.

Once the agent has received their LuxeXpert certification, they can apply to join Virtuoso. TDC notes in a release that selected certified LuxeXpert travel professionals in the TDC network who are members of Virtuoso will now have access to everything from complimentary hotel upgrades, to airport transfers, unique dining experiences, exclusive shore excursions and custom itineraries.

As TDC notes, benefits from Virtuoso’s hotel program alone are worth more than US$500 per stay.

And Úna O’Leary, Virtuoso’s general manager, Canada, said: “We are delighted to expand our presence in Canada by inviting LuxeXperts into the Virtuoso network. Their commitment to meeting the demands and expectations of the luxury consumer mirrors our own, and we look

forward to helping LuxeXperts further develop this side of their business through our partnership programs, marketing vehicles and professional development.”

Britain is “truly open for business”: ExploreGB Virtual 2022

TORONTO — As far as timing goes, ExploreGB Virtual 2022 couldn’t have been more perfectly timed, taking place less than a week after the United Kingdom removed all remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions.

VisitBritain’s five-day annual flagship travel trade event, which ran virtually from March 21-25, kicked off with plenty of excitement over the elimination of international travel restrictions, which came into effect on March 18. All travellers are no longer required to complete a passenger locator form to enter the U.K., or take a COVID-19 test. This change, therefore, removes the need for unvaccinated passengers to take a pre-departure test and a day-two post-arrival test.

sales team

Princess Cruises has ramped up its executive sales team with two new appointments: Cal Almaguer and Carmen Roig. Almaguer, a 38-year veteran of the cruise and travel industry, is the line’s new senior vice president, sales and service strategy and operations, while Roig joins the team as vice president of sales.

Prior to joining Princess, Almaguer spent 20+ years with Disney Destinations. He also held sales roles with NCL and Windstar Cruises. And as VP sales, Roig is tasked with directing Princess’ trade relationships, leading business development teams, and serving as the sales authority across all Princess sales modalities including web, contact centres and onboard.

“Britain is, therefore, truly open for business and our tourism businesses are ready to safely welcome people back and to provide a standout experience,” said Sally Balcombe, VisitBritain/VisitEngland CEO. “This is a great time to book a trip, and we are so pleased that people are feeling a renewed confidence about taking international holidays.

Gavin Landry, VisitBritain Americas – Director, also celebrated the news, noting how the timing will certainly help boost inbound tourism this summer season.

“The travel industry is incredibly important to Great Britain; in 2019, we had over 41 million visits that supported over 200,000 small- to medium-sized enterprises,” said Landry. “Tourism and the visitor

Princess welcomes two new executives to

economy drives the prosperity of Great Britain. In 2019, it represented over 10% of the gross domestic product, and supported around 3.1 million jobs. Together, we hope to restore those levels and certainly go beyond in future years.”

Like most destinations around the world, Britain saw tremendous losses as a result of the global pandemic. According to Richard Nicholls, Head of Research and Forecasting, VisitBritain, the destination has seen a total loss of over £50 billion in inbound tourism in the past two years.

But things are looking up, especially from the North America market.

“North America is a region where we’ve seen some really strong bookings,” says Nicholls. “We’re only about 1/6 below normal levels in terms of the bookings that are made from North Americans, especially from the U.S. So we’ve been thinking for some time that this is a market that’s likely to lead the recovery, and the numbers that we’ve seen in the last several weeks demonstrate that this is still the case.”

Nicholls noted, however, that it will take some time for Britain to return to 2019 tourism levels. According to “partners at tourism economics,” it will take until 2025 for visitor and spending levels to surpass 2019 pre-COVID levels.

A LANDMARK YEAR

Both Balcombe and Landry agreed that this year will be a landmark one for tourism, thanks to several high-profile events, most notably Her Majesty the Queen’s

Platinum Jubilee. On Feb. 6, the Queen became the first British Monarch to mark 70 years on the throne, and as such, celebrations will take place throughout the year, culminating in a four-day holiday weekend on June 2-5 that will include public events and community activities.

In Canada particularly, Landry says marketing efforts have focused on the Commonwealth Games, taking place in Birmingham from July 28-Aug. 8. This international multi-sport event for members of the Commonwealth will immediately follow the Queen’s Baton Relay (“think of it as a lighting of the Olympic torch,” says Landry), which is scheduled to arrive in Canada this May.

Also notable this year is Unboxed 2022, taking place across the U.K. from March to October. Dubbed a celebration of creativity, Unboxed will include free, large-scale events, installations and globally accessible digital experiences.

In preparation of these events, Balcombe says that VisitBritain is working on proposals to improve transport and accessibility for more rural destinations, allow more people to access the full range of destinations and festivities across the country. Examples include a new low-cost, low-carbon train service between London and Edinburgh, and the LNER international site, which will make bookings in local language easy.

On a personal note, Balcombe added that this year’s ExploreGB has been particularly poignant as it marked her final time as CEO of VisitBritain.

Thanking all those in attendance and tuning in, she said: “I know that this year we will go from strength to strength raising visitor numbers once again. I am confident that we’ll be able to drive back demand whilst also encouraging people to stay longer and travel further afield across our nations and regions, creating lasting memories for visitors.”

Thailand to lift pre-travel testing requirement on April 1

NEW YORK — Thailand will be eliminating its pre-travel testing requirement for international travellers on April 1, 2022.

As part of the relaxed measures, travellers will be able to enter the destination, without the need to provide proof of a negative RT-PCR test within 72 hours prior to travel, under the following three entry schemes: TEST & GO, Sandbox, and Alternative Quarantine (AQ).

LONDON, ENGLAND

NORTH AMERICA IS A REGION WHERE WE’VE SEEN SOME REALLY STRONG BOOKINGS. THIS IS A MARKET THAT’S LIKELY TO LEAD THE RECOVERY

Only two tests will remain necessary for TEST & GO and Sandbox travellers: RT-PCR test upon arrival (day zero), and an antigen self-test on day 5.

Additionally, the Sandbox staying period will be reduced from 7 to 5 days. After completing five days within the Sandbox destinations, travellers will be permitted to travel domestically within Thailand.

Lastly, the Alternative Quarantine (AQ) requirement will also be reduced from 7 to 5 days an an RTPCR test on day 4 or 5.

“We are excited that we’re able to reduce travel requirements for international visitors, creating a simpler process for all to enjoy Thailand’s wonders. The country’s tourism industry has been working tirelessly to provide a safe and fulfilling experience for travellers,” said Santi Sawangcharoen, Director of the TAT New York Office and Acting Director of the TAT Toronto Office.

“As we continue to lift requirements of TEST & GO, Sandbox and Alternative Quarantine entry schemes, travellers will have an easier time visiting popular destinations throughout Thailand and experiencing the country’s warm hospitality, rich culture and natural beauty,” Sawangcharoen added.

For more information on Thailand’s entry requirements go to https://www.tatnews.org/thailand-reopening. Travellers are

recommended to inquire at their nearest Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate for the latest updates.

AmaWaterways reports strong demand for 2022 Europe season

CALABASAS, CA — Strong booking volumes and eased travel requirements have bolstered the start of AmaWaterways’ 2022 Europe sailing season.

The river cruise company’s first 2022 Europe departure onboard AmaMagna departed March 6 from Budapest. This season AmaWaterways will offer five ships dedicated to the popular Tulip Time cruises, five ships cruising the scenic rivers of France and another 10 ships on the Rhine, Moselle, Danube and Douro.

Says Kristin Karst, Executive Vice President and co-founder of AmaWaterways: “After missing many celebrations with family and friends over the past two years, there is incredible pent-up demand, with travellers anxious to pack their bags and start fulfilling their travel ‘must do’ list. A desire to step away from the day-to-day and reconnect with the world is

driving demand for longer cruises, itineraries that include exclusive events and those that take guests to more exotic  destinations like on our 11-night Secrets of Egypt & The Nile cruise and land itinerary, our Mekong River cruises or our Africa Safaris & Wildlife cruises.”

The once-in-a-decade horticultural event, Holland’s Floride Expo, will be featured as a free shore excursions on several itineraries April 14 - Oct. 9, 2022, including: Best of Holland & Belgium; Tulip Time; Captivating Rhine and Enchanting Rhine; Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps; Rhine & Moselle Fairytales and Rhine & Moselle Delights; Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle; and Treasures of the Main & Rhine.

Of special note for 2022, AmaKristina, the only twin-balcony ship in France, is cruising its first full season on the Rhône between Lyon and Avignon.  Also extremely popular are Portugal cruises on board AmaDouro and sister ship AmaVida, which kick off the Douro River sailings on March 26. And in Egypt, AmaDahlia is offering Secrets of Egypt & The Nile.

“Whether travelling solo, as a couple or with a group of family and friends, our crew can hardly wait to welcome new and returning guests on board this year as we mark our 20 years on the rivers,” says Karst. “An AmaWaterways

OUR CREW CAN HARDLY WAIT TO WELCOME NEW AND RETURNING GUESTS ONBOARD THIS YEAR AS WE MARK 20 YEARS ON THE RIVERS.

river cruise offers endless opportunities for guests to re-connect while exploring dream destinations with convenience and peace of mind.”

ULCC Lynx Air announces new routes, destinations

TORONTO — New ultra-low cost Canadian airline Lynx Air has announced major expansion plans for Canada, adding five new routes and four new destinations to its network out of the Toronto region.

At an event at The Drake Hotel in Toronto, Lynx CEO Merren McArthur gathered with travel media to discuss and share the new details of upcoming Inaugural flights and expansion plans at Lynx.

“We are excited to be announcing this major expansion of our network, providing Toronto residents with more choice and competition as they seek to reconnect with loved ones and to rediscover this beautiful country. By the end of July, we will be flying 92 flights per week in and out of the Toronto area, which is more than 17,000 seats per week,” she McArthur.

“We see opportunity here in this market and we want to make sure travellers feel safe and optimistic about flying. We hope our fares will attract our customers and our great customer experience will earn their loyalty,” she added.

Like many ULCCs, Lynx Air does not pay commission to travel agents. “We are an ultra low-cost carrier with very low fares,” Lynx CCO, Vijay Bathija, told Travelweek. “We do not pay commissions, but we are happy to work with agents in innovative ways like offering a block of seats at the lowest fares. We also offer a groups desk that anyone can contact to secure seats at a great price.”

Lynx flights will operate out of both Toronto Pearson Airport and John C. Munro Hamilton International

Airport, using B737s, to six destinations: Halifax, St. John’s, Winnipeg, Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver.

From June 28, 2022, Lynx will also be increasing its frequencies between Toronto Pearson and Calgary from seven flights per week to 12 flights per week.

Lynx’s inaugural flight from Calgary to Vancouver on April 7 comes perfectly timed to the federal government’s announcement of removing the pre-arrival COVID testing requirement for fully vaccinated travellers arriving in Canada effective April 1, 2022.

South Africa announces further easing of COVID-19 restrictions

NEW YORK — The South African government has announced eased COVID-19 restrictions for international travellers.

South Africa will remain on Adjusted Alert Level One, with some further relaxation of COVID-19 regulations, according to an update issued by South African Tourism.

South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa said the further changes to Adjusted Alert Level One mean that international travellers entering South Africa through the various ports of entry will require proof of vaccination OR a negative PCR test not older than 72 hours.

Furthermore, all travellers entering South Africa will be offered vaccination on arrival, where requested or required.

The capacity of gatherings will be increased to 50% for all venues, for both indoor and outdoor gatherings. This is significant for the tourism industry, as it will impact positively on the business events sector, notes South African Tourism.

WE ARE HAPPY TO WORK WITH AGENTS IN INNOVATIVE WAYS LIKE OFFERING A BLOCK OF SEATS AT THE LOWEST FARES.

LYNX CEO MERREN MCARTHUR AND CCO VIJAY BATHIJA

Also, the wearing of masks will no longer be required when one is outdoors in a public area. However, wearing of masks is required when one is indoors such as at a mall, gallery or restaurant, and in public transport etc.

“We welcome the further easing of COVID-19 restrictions, as this presents great news for the tourism sector’s outlook towards recovery,” said South African Tourism Acting CEO, Themba Khumalo.

“Providing international travellers with a choice between producing proof of vaccination or a negative PCR test no older than 72 hours adds to South Africa’s accessibility, as a competitive and attractive tourism destination,” he added.

Khumalo noted that the MICE sector is a major contributor to South Africa’s economy and the easing of restrictions on gatherings will allow the sector to host events with more delegates.

“After a two-year absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic, South African Tourism’s flagship leisure tradeshow, Africa’s Travel Indaba, is back and will take place May 2 - 5, 2022,” said Khumalo. “We look forward to hosting the world on our shores once again to showcase all that Africa has to offer travellers from around the world.”

Holland America enhances embarkation process with mBark, VeriFLY

SEATTLE — Holland America Line is making embarkation easier for guests by implementing facial recognition technology and a digital health app in all U.S., Canadian and European homeports.

mBark is a mobile system that allows guests to check in for their cruise in less than 10 seconds, while the VeriFLY digital walled for COVID-19 credentials offers a proven solution for proof of vaccination and test results.

On the new technology, Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line, said: “Holland America lIne continues to look for ways that make the cruising experience better for our guests as we navigate protocols and best practices for today’s travellers. We recently completed testing with VeriFLY and mBark on a few sailings and the most common comment from guests was, ‘That’s it?’ because it’s so fast and efficient.”

With mBark facial recognition, guests who load their photo and all necessary pre-travel information to Holland America’s website prior to

embarkation will be able to use the touchless system. Following a quick face scan, guests can move through the check-in process in about 10 seconds, significantly reducing embarkation time. London-based SKO Systems designed and implemented mBark for Holland America.

VeriFLY, available for download at Google Play and the Apple App Store, gives guests the option to upload the required information to the app, including proof of vaccination and test results, allowing them to go through the screening process prior to arrival at the terminal. Once registration is complete, guests simply need to show the VeriFLY QR code or ‘pass’ (digital or printed) to the check-in agent.

Carnival Cruise Line, also part of Carnival Corporation, rolled out the VeriFLY app earlier this month across its fleet, for all ships in U.S. homeports.

VeriFLY launched on Holland America’s Rotterdam in March and will now roll out to other ships in the fleet by the end of March and begin with the remaining ships as they return to cruising. mBark will also launch with ships as they return to service and will begin in other embarkation ports as the ships move to new cruising regions.

For Travelweek’s recent coverage of Holland America’s Attitude of Gratitude travel agent FAM onboard the new Rotterdam, see Travelweek.ca.

GUESTS ASKED 'THAT’S IT?’ BECAUSE IT’S SO FAST AND EFFICIENT

Korea ready to resume visa-free entry for Canadians

TORONTO — Canada has been added to Korea’s visa-free entry list, effective April 1, 2022.

According to a special announcement issued yesterday by the Korea Tourism Organization, Canadian passport holders entering for leisure purposes will be granted entry to Korea for up to 180 days. This is the same system that was in place before the pandemic.

Canadians entering Korea visa-free will still need to complete a K-ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) prior to departure.

In related news, Korea’s 7-day quarantine requirement for overseas arrivals has been waived for travellers who are fully vaccinated.

However Korea will requires PCR test results before arrival (i.e. negative PCR test results taken within 48 hours from the date of departure). There’s also a PCR test requirement on the first day after arrival. The 6th - 7th day test requirement can be satisfied by rapid antigen test results (either self-test or taken at a medical institution).

Based on these new developments, the KTO Canada Office says it will be restarting FAM trips, co-promotions, webinars “and much more in support of your Korea products.”

KTO Canada invites all industry partners to contact its Canada office with any questions in regards

to travel to Korea, entry, attractions, support and more, and adds: “We look forward to working with all our valued partners in the near future.”

U.S. to its base in Smiths Falls, ON.

“We are so delighted to start our 2022 season with a much more positive outlook than we’ve had in previous years and the addition of the new Horizon Plus boats shows the amazing growth and continued interest we have had,” said Brown.

“With the worst of the pandemic hopefully behind us, travel confidence is steadily returning and bookings are flooding in once more. It feels so good to be preparing our boats and bases to open with more certainty,” she added.

SMITHS FALLS, ON — With the delivery of six new Horizon Cruisers, Le Boat now has 30 vessels ready to set sail this spring and summer 2022 season on the Rideau Canal.

Le Boat’s 2022 season on the UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal kicks off May 20, the Victoria Day long weekend, with expectations for another very busy season.

Le Boat’s Managing Director, Cheryl Brown, says the company is looking forward to welcoming many guests from across Canada and the

Le Boat’s 2022 launch on May 20 coincides with the company’s fifth anniversary sailing the Rideau Canal.

Brown says the Horizon Plus models are identical in build, layout and quality to the standard Horizon fleet, however, they have a few additional features to elevate the customer experience, including hotel-quality mattresses with memory foam, premium cushions on the sun deck, and smart TVs capable of handling all the top streaming services.

BOAT-SHARING PROGRAM

The brand new Horizon Plus boats join the expansion of Le Boat’s ownership program into Canada. The program allows committed cruisers to enjoy boating season in nine different cruising regions in Canada and Europe, while offering savings and making owning a boat

Le Boat anticipates busy 2022 on the Rideau Canal, with fleet now at 30

TRAVEL CONFIDENCE IS STEADILY RETURNING. IT FEELS SO GOOD TO BE PREPARING OUR BOATS AND BASES TO OPEN WITH MORE CERTAINTY

A STOP ALONG THE RIDEAU CANAL, WITH LE BOAT

simple and worry-free. Le Boat’s ownership program is similar to time-share or boat-share programs and is an affordable alternative for travellers who go boating more than once a year.

With the program, Le Boat covers all the cost of boat maintenance, dockage, off-season storage and provides onngoing maintenance, at no extra cost to boat owners. Owners get 10 weeks of cruising in both Canada and Europe each year and receive a return of 6% of the boat’s purchase value per month. Le Boat offers a guaranteed buyback of 50% of the initial cost after a seven-year period.

TRAVEL WITH CONFIDENCE

For anyone taking a Le Boat holiday, no boat license or previous boating experience is required. Le Boat teaches travellers everything they need to know to captain their own vessel. Boat rentals start at $3,016 for seven nights onboard a Horizon 1 (that sleep up to five people).

Le Boat’s COVID Safety Charter was implemented last year and applies to all of the company’s destinations at home and abroad. Travellers are also protected by the operator’s Go Boating with Confidence flexible booking policy,

which allows customers to make one date change to their booking free of charge up to 14 days before their departure or get a full refund if they need to cancel their trip due to COVID-19.

More information about Le Boat can be found at leboat.com or call 1-800-734-5491 to reach Le Boat’s sales team.

DATE 2022 returns to Punta Cana as in-person event

SANTO DOMINGO — For the first time in two years, the Dominican Republic’s premier travel and tourism event will be held in person from May 11-13, 2022.

The 22nd edition of the Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange (DATE), hosted by the Hotel and Tourism Association of the Dominican Republic (ASONAHORES), will return this year with more than 160 suppliers and buyers from 20 countries at the Barceló Bávaro Convention Center in Punta Cana.

“As a result of our sector’s hard work and strong commitment,

and the attractive diversity of our Dominican product, we have seen consistent growth in occupation in our destination in the last year,” said Rafael Blanco Tejera, President of ASONAHORES. “This success demonstrates the effectiveness of our response to the global pandemic and enables us to proudly hold this key event in person, so we can continue to reinforce our strong foundation with the tourism sector and its stakeholders.”

Palardy joins JTB as BDM, Quebec and Eastern Canada

Anne Palardy has been named BDM, Quebec and Eastern Canada for the Jamaica Tourist Board. The Montreal-based Palardy has 30+ years of experience in the travel industry. Prior to joining the JTB Canada team, she was a Business Development Representative for Sandos Hotels & Resorts in eastern Canada. She has also worked in roles with Transat, Air Canada, Tourisme Montérégie in Québec, and CAA Québec.

Angella Bennett, Regional Director, Jamaica Tourist Board Canada, says: “Anne is a great fit for this role as she is armed with a wealth of experience and holds deep knowledge of Canada’s Quebec and Atlantic markets, hospitality and the tourist industry.”

The event will serve as the main platform for business meetings between international travel agents and tour operators, and the DR’s main tourism suppliers. Although business exchanges will be the main focus, there will also be special attention to promoting the destination’s cultural attractions through on-site art exhibits, musical entertainment and artistic performances.

This year’s edition will also emphasize the use of digital technology to reduce the use of paper, in line with the sector’s goals of promoting sustainability. A system of pre-booked meetings and automated agencies will be in place to facilitate interaction and time management among participants. More information can be found at date.com.do.

PUNTA CANA, D.R.

CURRENT COURSES & WEBINARS

www.travelweeklearningcentre.com

New to Selling Australia? Become an

Join

webinar for an introduction to selling Australia

learn how you can become an expert in selling Australia. Here’s your opportunity to make more money and have repeat clients.

Costa Rica Specialist Program

Available in English and French

Discover the best of Costa Rica, where it’s easy to discover life’s essentials. This course provides key details on what makes Costa Rica attractive to travellers and offers a wealth of knowledge about this country’s extensive tourism assets, resulting in endless possibilities for vacation packages for clients.

Aussie Specialist Program

G’day! Tourism Australia is excited to announce that Australia is preparing to welcome you and your clients back to our sunny shores. The Aussie Specialist Program is designed to provide international travel sellers with the knowledge and skills to promote and sell Australia as a destination.

Imagine Your Korea Specialist Program

Take the Imagine your Korea Specialist course today and learn about one of the world’ s most dynamic destinations – beautiful, high-tech, friendly and cultured. This course will teach you about getting to Korea, general information, transport, accommodation, activities, events and more.