Travelweek - August 4th, 2022

Let Life Flow...

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These are the top-searched destinations on Google by Canadians right now

By Cindy Sosroutomo

TORONTO — Travel is back – in a big way – with Canadians venturing across borders in record-breaking numbers.

For the week of July 18-24, Transport Canada recorded close to 1,144,000 air passenger departures across Canada, with a daily average of more than 163,000 passengers. This is close to 4,300 more passengers than the previous week, and represents nearly 83% of the level for the same week in 2019. That same week, Service Canada issued 51,418 passports, for a total of 665,532 passports since April 1, 2022.

But where are all these Canadians travelling to? With borders reopening around the world after nearly two years of travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the possibilities are endless for those ready and able to venture abroad.

In light of new data from market research firm IPSOS, which found that 60% of Canadians are thinking about, planning to or have already booked travel this year, Google Canada has released new search trends based on top-searched destinations in Google Flights over the past year.

The top-searched international destination among Canadians is Paris, followed by London, New York, Lisbon and Rome. Rounding out the top 10 are Las Vegas, Orlando, Los Angeles, Delhi and Athens.

As for sun destinations, Canadians are mostly searching for Orlando, Cancun, Honolulu, Fort Lauderdale and Miami on Google Flights. These top-five sunny locales are followed by Kahului, Punta Cana, Montego Bay, Aruba and Nassau.

“Canadians are particularly interested in getting back to exploring

some of the world’s most metropolitan cities for the first time in over two years,” says Marshall Self, Director of Finance & Travel, Google Canada, who adds that international travel searches in Canada have actually exceeded pre-pandemic levels. “And while sun destinations and holiday packages are typically planned to escape colder temperatures, Canadians are now looking for fast, affordable and convenient travel options, and many aren’t waiting for the cold. In fact, searches for ‘beach resorts’ and ‘all-inclusive resorts’ almost doubled in interest.”

Of course, Google searches don’t mean much to the travel industry’s recovery if they’re not followed by actual bookings. But according to Saj Hossain, Retail Operations Leader at Flight Centre Canada, Google’s top search results actually line up with recent booking trends.

Paris, London, New York, Lisbon and Rome – Google’s top five searched international destinations – are the same destinations that make up the majority of Flight Centre’s international summer bookings, says Hossain. Flights to New York City, for travel in late August to September, for example, range from $450-$600

from Toronto, while flights to London from Toronto for the same date range are going for anywhere from $1,000-$1,300.

Flight Centre’s top booked sun destinations are Cancun, Punta Cana and Puerto Vallarta, the first two also on Google’s list. Flight prices to Cancun from Toronto in November, says Hossain, range from $600-$800, while flights to Punta Cana from Toronto range from $600-$900.

ARE HIGH PRICES OF CONCERN?

When asked whether flight prices are higher now than prior to the pandemic, Hossain says the answer isn’t so clear cut, with several factors that need be taken into consideration.

“Flight pricing overall has increased since 2019 but, of course, this depends on multiple variables such as destination, seasonality and how early (or late) you are booking. Availability, increase in fuel surcharges and taxes also factor into price, which are anywhere from 10%-20% more,” he says.

“Airlines are operating fewer flights than they were in 2019 , so while there may have been daily flights on a route

pre-pandemic, currently we might be only seeing twice-weekly flights, which results in lower booking classes filling up quickly,” adds Hossain.

So how can travellers help minimize the impact of higher travel prices? Book early.

“Customers booking earlier are able to secure a better rate for their flight, which was true prior to the pandemic and is still the case today,” says Hossain. “The travel restrictions over the past two years have resulted in very big pent-up demand. Higher rates and challenges at the airports, while not ideal, ultimately will not stop our customers from getting out in the world. Our customers and our travel advisors are solution-driven and continue to find ways to overcome the evolving hurdles facing the industry.”

At Google Canada, Self also says pent-up demand is driving growth for travel within the country, despite inflation and higher prices.

“We have yet to see economic pressures slow demand. After more than two years of being stuck at home, it’s clear that people are excited about travel, whether that’s planning for trips abroad or at home in Canada,” says Self. “Right now, we’re definitely in a period where travel demand is back to pre-pandemic levels, but with uncertainty ahead we’ll have to see how the next few months pan out.”

DEALS & FLEXIBILITY

While Canadians aren’t letting higher prices deter them from planning or booking travel, it doesn’t mean that they’re not searching for best-available rates and deals to offset current

costs. According to Google Canada’s search results, 91% of Canadians are choosing the most cost-effective option, while 60% are choosing a travel provider with loyalty or rewards programs.

In addition, with so much uncertainty surrounding travel right now, Canadians are also going out of their way to book travel with more flexible options in order to be covered for any unforeseen changes.

“Searches for ‘travel cancellation policy’ went up 210% year over year in Canada, while travel insurance-related searches are up +100% year over year as travellers look to take extra precautions when planning their trips,” says Self.

HOW GOOGLE CAN HELP THE TRAVEL INDUSTRY

Google is more than just a search tool for consumers, says Self. It can be used as a valuable resource for travel professionals that can, in turn, help them build trips designed specifically for their client’s needs and interests.

“We created a tool called Travel Insights with Google that provides the travel industry with insights into real-time travel demand,” says Self. “The tool is based on global Google Search data so they can support travellers in their journeys, from where they want to travel, to where they want to stay.”

As an example, he adds, Destination Insights helps agents and providers understand where potential travellers may be coming from, allowing them to adjust marketing campaigns accordingly. And for hotels specifically, Hotel Insights helps identify where interest for their business and region is highest, and highlights booking trends and digital tools that can be used to attract new guests and grow their business.

Earn a spot on upcoming Utah fam

TORONTO — Air Canada, Utah Office of Tourism and Rocky Mountaineer are teaming up to offer Canadian travel agents the chance to ‘Sell Your Way to Utah!’

The promotional campaign, which kicked off Aug. 1, 2022, will allow four lucky agents to qualify to join a fam trip to Utah from Oct. 22-29, 2022. The trip includes six nights’ accommodation, Rocky Mountaineer’s ‘Rockies to the Red Rocks’ rail journey, activities, some meals and Air Canada airfare to and from Canada.

To sell their way to a spot on the fam, travel agents earn one point for every Rocky Mountaineer guest booked on the ‘Rockies to the Red Rocks’ rail journey for travel during the 2022 season; one point for every Air Canada return or open jaw ticket booked to either Denver, Las Vegas or Salt Lake City; and one additional point for any Utah land arrangements.

The selling period runs from Aug. 1 to September 30, 2022.

Agents must register to participate by Aug. 25, 2022 by emailing Lara Kamionka at lara@canuckiwi.com with their details. Full incentive details will be provided by return email.

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Travelweek’s Agent Survey 2022: Optimism for travel industry running high

By Kathryn Folliott

TORONTO — You can’t keep a good industry down, and that’s especially true for travel.

Even after an unprecedented two years that brought so many travel businesses to the brink, an overwhelming majority - 90% - of travel advisors taking part in Travelweek’s Travel Agent Survey say they’re either optimistic or cautiously optimistic about the future of travel.

Respondents were also strongly convinced - to the tune of 94% - that the pandemic has shown consumers the value of working with a travel agent.

Close to 400 travel advisors across Canada took part in the survey.

No doubt it helps that travel is finally taking off again after so long. And that’s giving the travel trade faith not just in their industry, but in their businesses too.

More than half (58%) of respondents say ramped-up booking levels mean their travel agencies will soon be financially stable.

However, solvency worries are still very top of mind for 7% of agents who said they’re not getting many bookings and they’re not sure their agency will make it. And just over a third (35%) of agents say clients are booking but they still have some solvency concerns.

Marsha Ramage, travel advisor and Aussie Specialist Ambassador for Canada for Blowes & Stewart Travel in Peterborough, ON, says her agency is back on track in regards to financial footing.

“But with a possible recession ahead, COVID, airport drama, etc., we are still being cautious,” says Ramage. “We operate several 737 charters from the Peterborough airport and they have all been selling well.”

Travelweek’s Agent Survey, conducted in June 2022, came several

months into travel’s resurgence and just before the summer travel season started in earnest.

BOOKINGS ROLLING IN

Asked about current booking levels, 39% reported bookings for 2022, and 8% said phones are ringing off the hook.

And 48% of agents say they think travel will return to pre-pandemic levels by 2023. A sizable percentage (38%) predict 2024, and 10% say 2025 and beyond. A determined 3% say 2022.

Sandra McLeod with RedDoorTravel in LaSalle, ON says: “My experience has been that all my clients are now booking this year, next year and 2024. Bookings are certainly at the 2019 level. I have a client base that spans Canada and the U.S. They are travelling in North America and beyond: Europe, South America, Arctic, Antarctica, Australia, New Zealand. The only area that most are still staying away from is Asia and obviously Russia.”

McLeod says that with the majority of countries now reopened with no testing required, her clients are feeling less stressed. “The only thing they don't like is the ArriveCan app.”

Even the long delays and congestion at the airports haven’t been a hurdle for McLeod’s clients. “I get more concerned about it than they do,” she says.

FLEXIBILITY IS KEY

It’s certainly a more travel-positive marketplace out there. Some 86% of respondents say their clients are more receptive to travel marketing efforts than they were six months ago. And 94% say they’re promoting international travel product for 2022.

Asked about the best ways to entice clients to travel again, 53% say flexible

rebooking and cancellation policies. Easy entry and testing requirements come in at 24%, low prices and sales at 19%, strong health and safety protocols, 3%, and new innovative products, 1%.

Flexibility is the name of the game at Collette. The tour op has had huge success with its Travel Protection Plan.

“Three reasons why Collette’s Travel Protection Plan has seen almost a 100% increase in percentage buy rates,” says Collette GM Brett Walker. “One: it’s the only waiver that offers change of mind for any reason up to the day before departure. Two: full cash refund, no questions asked. Three: same price for everyone regardless of age. This is almost unbelievable but believe it - it’s true! I repeat - one price for all and incredible value. Dare to compare!”

Walker adds a bonus point: “Four: the policy has a pre-existing condition exclusion waiver if purchased within seven days of the initial deposit. No other policy has a 7 day pre-existing waiver exclusion waiver. Not one. Only Collette’s. Our TPP is the real deal and can’t be beat or copied. In these times it’s no wonder sales are through the roof and agents have taken notice. Clients too.”

Collette was one of the first tour ops amid the pandemic to announce upfront commissions. When asked about upfront commission policies, 46% of agents surveyed said their sales strategies and bookings aren’t impacted by when they receive their commission, and 40% said they always book the product best suited to their client’s needs - but upfront commission was a big point in favour of some tour operators. And 14% said upfront commissions helped keep their agency afloat during the pandemic. These agents say they always sought out and booked with tour operators who went this route.

DESTINATIONS

Where are clients going? As travel returns, 50% of agents say Mexico and the Caribbean will be the top choice, followed by travel within Canada (15%) Europe (15%), cruising (10%). Travel to the U.S., and long-haul travel to Asia, Africa and beyond rounded out the destinations.

June 2022 was a turning point for inbound tourism to the U.S., as midmonth saw the lifting of the pre-departure testing requirement for international travellers.

The dropped requirement was a huge relief for anyone selling U.S. travel to Canadian clients. Close to half (45%) of respondents said they’ve seen interest from their clients in U.S. destinations, a figure that no doubt soared as word spread about the dropped testing requirement. Asked where in the U.S. clients are focusing their attention, 38% said the South, 35% said Hawaii and 19% said the West Coast.

As for long-haul destinations, Moira Smith, Goway’s VP Africa and Asia, says Goway is seeing strong numbers for several top spots. Smith’s department just had its quarterly review and she shared some stats. “It’s great news that we are all so busy again,” says Smith. “The Middle East is significantly up over the same period in 2019. Front runners being Dubai and Egypt. Southern Africa, after a very good November, was hit with cancellations because of Omicron. This June

was the first month that we’ve seen pre-pandemic booking levels to both the South Pacific and Africa.”

Agents are also seeing lots of interest in cruise bookings. Cruising was the first sector in the travel industry impacted by the pandemic, and defying all odds, it has come roaring back, with interest in cruise vacations stronger than ever.

Some 43% of agents say clients are asking about cruising again, with 26% saying they’re focusing their efforts more on cruising for 2023 and beyond. Close to one in five (17%) say they’re seeing a very high level of interest in cruise bookings for now and the future, while 14% say they’re still concerned about further negative impact on my cruise bookings, as they’re heavily invested in selling cruise product.

GETTING CLIENTS TRAVELLING AGAIN

Asked about the biggest impediments to getting clients travelling right now, agents cite reasons ranging from perceptions about travel restrictions, to nervousness about airports, airplanes and the like, to lack of awareness about how relatively open travel has become.

Sheila Gallant-Halloran with Lush Life Travel in Ottawa says she’s fortunate to have many clients already travelling – or about to. “I have a client’s family finally headed to Kenya today for a bucket list trip that was

cancelled twice before because of the pandemic; and have had multiple client couples and families do the Rocky Mountaineer, take Alaska cruises, go to Hawaii and Costa Rica; visit Newfoundland, Vancouver, California, and Florida; head off to Italy, France, Greece, Portugal, Monaco, and Ireland; and take different European river cruises and small ship ocean cruises. Several more river cruises and an Iceland cruise coming up. And even some world cruises.”

Gallant-Halloran adds: “I think most of my clients are aware they can travel now - at least I’ve been preaching that in my weekly newsletter throughout the pandemic, and have certainly shared with clients every time there’s been a lessening of rules and regulations impacting Canadians’ travelling.

For those clients still hesitating, or not yet ready to travel - “and yes, I have whole swaths still in this camp” - Gallant-Halloran says it’s a combination of factors, including fear, and hesitancy after two years at home, insurance worries, continually changing entry, exit, and vaccination rules, and of course airport delays and congestion worldwide.

“There are things I can’t really help with though – like the inordinate delays to get passports, and the lineups they will encounter everywhere. But I am very upfront with my clients about these complications, and while I can guide them and give advice and recommendations, I have to let their stress level guide them,” she says.

To check out Travelweek’s 2022 Agent and Consumer Surveys, click here.

THE ONLY THING THEY DON'T LIKE IS THE ARRIVECAN APP.

AIRLINES

Etihad Airways has posted a record-breaking core operating profit of US$296 million in the first half of 2022, despite fuel costs increasing by nearly 60% in comparison to the same period last year. The airline carried a total of 4.02 million passengers in H1 2022, over 3 million more than the same period last year (980,000), with an average seat load factor of 75%. Passenger loads increased consistently over the first six months, rising by 21.9 percentage points as travel demand recovered. Etihad also saw a strong boost in passenger volumes in February as Abu Dhabi further relaxed travel restrictions. H1 2022 saw Etihad launch five summer services, including new seasonal routes to Heraklion on the island of Crete as well as Nice, France.

Condor has set its sights on Edmonton where it will launch nonstop service to Frankfurt in May 26, 2023. Flying aboard a Boeing 767, flights will operate Tuesdays and Fridays throughout the summer season. Fares start at €359.99 per person. The new addition brings Condor’s Canada service to a total of five destinations: Toronto, Vancouver, Whitehorse, Halifax and now Edmonton. Many other destinations in Canada are also accessible via cooperation partner WestJet. Condor’s airline partners in Frankfurt, Canada and around the world will enable Edmontonians and regional travellers to also connect to many popular European destinations.

RESORTS

Blue Diamond Resorts is tapping into the latest technology to enhance the pre-arrival guest experience. A series of detailed videos that showcases the resorts will be released, allowing guests to explore properties prior to arrival and make more informed booking decisions. Forty videos featuring top-notch, first-person view camera technology will be published on Blue Diamond Resorts’ official channels under the name ‘Above & Beyond.’

“The name of this series of videos reflects Blue Diamond Resorts’ DNA,” said Alejandro Rodriguez del Peon, Director of Marketing and Public Relations for Blue Diamond Resorts. “The FPV technology provides a different perspective to see all our All-In Luxury properties. We can see them from above and beyond while we continuously give the extra mile.” Blue Diamond Resorts will be releasing one resort video per week over the following months. To view the series of videos click here.

DESTINATIONS

The Israel Ministry of Tourism has announced that tourism arrival numbers, for the first time in over two years, are approaching the same record-breaking numbers of summer 2019. This upward trend comes on the heels of the country reopening to international travellers, regardless of vaccination status, in March. During June 2022, Israel saw 112,700 North American tourists (excluding day visitors and cruise passengers), compared to 131,800 in June 2019. In the past six months, numerous hotels have opened, with more coming in 2022 and 2023 including the Six Senses Shaharut, The David Kempinski Tel Aviv, and Nobu Hotel Tel Aviv.

Effective Aug. 8, 2022, vaccinated travellers heading to Anguilla will no longer need to test for COVID-19 prior to arrival. Proof of vaccination status, however, must still be presented to the airlines upon check-in and upon arrival at ports of entry in St. Maarten and Anguilla. Also effective Aug. 8, unvaccinated visitors will be permitted to enter with a negative pre-arrival COVID-19 test result. There will be no quarantine or further testing required.

Transat secures additional $100 million LEEFF loan

MONTREAL — Transat has secured an additional $100 million in liquidity from the Canada Enterprise Emergency Funding Corporation (CEEFC).

The extra funds are in addition to initial financing that was secured on April 29, 2021, through the Large Employer Emergency Financing Facility (LEEFF), to help the airline overcome the effects of the pandemic. On March 10, 2022, Transat also received an additional $43.3 million for traveller refunds and negotiated favourable 20-month deferrals for certain terms of the unsecured LEEFF financing agreement.

In this final LEEFF loan, Transat will receive up to $150 million to protect Canadian jobs and ensure operations can continue, despite the company’s ongoing capital operating challenges as a result of the pandemic. The amount consists of $100 million up front in LEEFF loans, and another $50 million loan contingent on Transat raising third-party funding (matched dollar for dollar up to $50 million). As a further requirement to this loan, Transat must also follow the Air Passenger Bill of Rights.

In connection with the establishment of this latest additional funding, through the LEEFF, Transat has reached an agreement with all lenders

to defer the April 2023 maturities to April 2024, as well as to defer from October 2022 to October 2023 the date by which it must meet certain financial covenants.

“This complementary financing and the changes to the existing agreements strengthen our treasury position and reinforce our financial resilience,” says Annick Guérard, President and CEO. “This important financing milestone, combined with sales that have been doing well in recent months, will give us the financial flexibility to deploy our strategic plan with optimism and confidence.”

As of July 29, CEEFC has stopped accepting new LEEFF applications, reflecting Canada’s strong economic recovery from the pandemic. No new applications for LEEFF loans – except for Transat – have been received from Canadian companies over the last year.

As a result of the first LEEFF loan to Transat in April 2021, thousands of Canadian jobs have been protected and the company has been able to maintain its operations. In its Q2 results, Transat’s revenue reached $358.2 million compared with just $7.6 million in the same quarter in 2021. Its net loss for the quarter amounted to $98.3 million. In Q1 2022, Transat reported a total revenue of $202.4 million and a $114.3 million loss.

LEEFF recipients, including Transat, must commit to protecting jobs and sustaining their domestic business activities, and must demonstrate that

funding under LEEFF forms part of their overall plan to return to financial stability.

Service Canada makes changes to expedite passport applications

OTTAWA — Service Canada has implemented a new process for issuing passports that will help minimize long processing times.

According to Karina Gould, Minister of Children of Children, Families and Social Development who oversees passports as part of her portfolio, as of now, Canadians who provided a duly completed application by mail more than 20 business days ago, and are travelling within the next 20 business days, can visit any of over 300 Service Canada Centres to make a transfer request, in order to ensure their application is processed in time for their travel.

Previously, Canadians could only request transfers in person at one of 35 specialized passport sites (Service Canada Centre – Passport Services), or by contacting the call centre. This change gives Canadians an additional service option to make these requests.

“The recent increase in passport demand, combined with the longer processing times, have resulted in a growing number of Canadians requiring their passport applications be transferred to local passport offices for processing in order to get them in time to travel,” says Minister Gould. “This has been stressful for Canadians and a challenging way for them to get their documents.”

Depending on the date of travel, the application will either be expedited and the passport will be mailed to the client before the date required, or the file will be transferred to an office for

SUN DESTINATIONS

Asixth night in paradise for free? Dreams do come true at Dreams Riviera Cancun

Dreams Riviera Cancun offering free sixth night in paradise

Located close to the excitement of Cancun and Playa del Carmen, family-friendly Dreams Riviera Cancun provides the ultimate backdrop for unparalleled pampering, family fun and lasting memories set along a natural white-sand beach and surrounded by lush tropical gardens.

To entice guests to book, the resort has launched a 6th Night Free promotion, valid on new bookings made from now until Dec. 22, 2023, for travel from not to Dec. 22, 2022. The offer includes every sixth night free plus $200 in resort coupons when booking a minimum six nights in a Preferred Club room category at Dreams Riviera Cancun.

A minimum six-night stay in a Preferred Club room category is required to qualify. Free nights will be reflected directly in the published rate when selecting ‘6th Night Free’ during booking. There is no limit to the number of free nights that can be received. The promotion is not valid in all markets, is subject to availability and can be modified or closed out at any time. It is not combinable with Deal of the Day or Flash Sales and may not be combinable with other offers.

It is also not applicable on Deal of the Day or Presidential Suite room categories. No rebooks or rollbacks permitted.

RESORT COUPONS

The $200 resort coupons are per room, per stay, and are combinable unless otherwise indicated. They include four coupons worth $10 each, two coupons worth $20 each, and three coupons worth $40 each. Of these coupons, $100 can be used for a spa treatment, $60 for romantic dining, and $40 for wine purchases. Spa treatment coupons are broken down into one coupon worth $20 and two coupons worth $40. Romantic dining coupons are broken down into one coupon worth $20 and one coupon worth $40. Coupons for wine purchases are broken down into four $10 coupons.

Resort coupons for spa treatments are not combinable or valid for spa products at the Spa Boutique or 25-minute massages and treatments. Only one coupon can be redeemed per spa treatment. Coupons for romantic dining are combinable up to $60 per romantic dining experience, but not valid for bottles of wine. Romantic dinners are subject to availability and must be scheduled with concierge in advance. $10 coupons for wine can be used at any of the restaurant on property.

They are not combinable – only one $10 coupon can be applied toward one bottle of wine.

Resort coupons cannot be applied toward the following items: beauty salon services, spa product purchases, telephone charges, dolphin experiences, gift shop purchases, boutique purchases, Internet service (if applicable), marina services, dive shop, medical services, car rentals and travel agency services. They are not applicable for tips, taxes, private functions and/or special events such as Christmas and New Year’s Gala dinners.

Resort coupons must be redeemed at the time of reservation or service. They do not hold any cash or commercial value, are not refundable and non-transferable. They are not accumulative and cannot be combined with any other promotion or special offers including, but not limited to spa treatment discounts, unless otherwise indicated in the promotion. They are not combinable with Deal of the Day Rooms, and are only valid during the original stay and cannot be deducted upon check out. Resort coupons are not applicable to group bookings. Employees of tour operators and wholesalers do not qualify. They are not combinable with deal of the day rooms. This entire offer is based on availability and can be modified or closed out at any time.

For more information go to amrcollection.com.

printing and pickup. A proof of travel or need will be required.

If an application was submitted by mail less than 20 business days ago and a transfer is required due to imminent travel, transfer fees will apply. Additional fees may also apply.

“This change aims to reduce the number of urgent file transfers processed by passport offices and to minimize the burden on local printing facilities at those sites,” adds the Minister. “It will speed up the processing of passport applications when the service standard has not been met and a file transfer has been requested as a result. We should also see a further reduction of lineups associated with urgent requests at passport offices.”

According to Minister Gould, passport delays have been improving in different regions across Canada, especially outside large cities. In Ontario for example, Service Canada has expanded delivery of passport services to 20 scheduled outreach sites. For the week of July 18-24, Service Canada issued 51,418 passports and reported an average call centre wait time of 50 minutes.

“We are making progress on this challenge and we will continue to provide options to offer a better service experience to Canadians,” concluded the Minister.

Royal Caribbean, Celebrity update testing requirement for vaccinated guests

MIAMI — Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises are making it easier for vaccinated guests to board their ships.

Effective Aug. 8, 2022, vaccinated guests on both cruise lines, on sailings departing the U.S. that are five nights or less, are no longer required to test for COVID-19 prior to embarkation.

“We are currently developing

updated protocols that provide for the continued safety of our guests, crew and the communities we visit, better align with the travel and hospitality sector, and meet destination regulations. This means we’re transitioning to the point where everyone will be able to vacation with us,” reads a statement on Celebrity Cruises’ and Royal Caribbean’s websites.

Testing requirements are still in place for vaccinated guests on sailings that are six nights or longer, as well as for unvaccinated guests on all sailings. All crew will continue to be fully vaccinated and boosted when eligible, and tested regularly.

The eased measures follow the CDC’s decision earlier this month to drop its COVID-19 program for cruise ships. Since then, Azamara, Norwegian Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages and Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line have all announced the elimination of pre-departure COVID-19 testing.

Virgin Voyages & Margaritaville at Sea drop pre-embarkation COVID-19 testing

PALM BEACH — Virgin Voyages and Margaritaville at Sea (previously known as Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line) have announced the elimination of pre-embarkation testing requirements, following the CDC’s recent decision to drop its COVID-19 program for cruise ships.

According to the CDC’s website, with the elimination of the cruise

program, cruise ships now have “access to guidance and tools to manage their own COVID-19 mitigation programs,” and that “cruise travellers have access to recommendations that allow them to make informed decisions about cruise ship travel.”

Other cruise lines that have dropped pre-departure COVID-19 testing for passengers in recent weeks include Azamara and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL).

As of July 24, Virgin Voyages has removed pre-embarkation testing for sailings on EU sailings, and from July 27 on U.S. sailings. Vaccine requirements will remain in place for both Scarlet Lady, operating out of the U.S., and Valiant Lady in the EU. The cruise line is currently evaluating this policy and will announce further updates in the near future.

Margaritaville at Sea removed pre-embarkation testing for all sailings as of July 23 for vaccinated guests. Crew members are still required to maintain their fully vaccinated status as well as adhere to enhanced safety and hygiene protocols onboard.

In accordance with CDC guidance, unvaccinated guests will continue to

OTHER CRUISE LINES THAT HAVE DROPPED PRE-DEPARTURE TESTING FOR PASSENGERS INCLUDE AZAMARA AND NCL.

VIRGIN VOYAGES’ SCARLET LADY

be required to present a negative antigen COVID-19 prior to sailing, completed no more than one day before departure. The cruise line also recommends that vaccinated guests continue to complete testing in advance of departure.

Unifor members ratify new WestJet agreement

CALGARY — The first collective bargaining agreement between WestJet and Unifor was ratified by Unifor’s members on July 29, less than a week after a tentative labour deal was made that avoided a walkout of nearly 800 baggage and customer service staff at the Calgary and Vancouver airports.

The contract secures a minimum 13% wage increase for newly unionized WestJet workers, their first increase in five years. The agreement will come into effect Sept. 1, 2022 and remain in place until Dec. 31, 2026.

“WestJet is pleased to share that the agreement negotiated with Unifor has been ratified by its membership,” said Angela Avery, WestJet Executive Vice-President and Chief People, Corporate and Sustainability Officer. “This settlement demonstrates WestJet’s commitment to its employees, the long-term success of the airline and the communities we serve.”

Scott Doherty, Unifor’s Executive Assistant to the National President and lead on the airline sector, added: “After nine months of challenging bargaining, the Local 531 bargaining committee achieved long overdue and significant wage increases, improved benefits and better working conditions. Members starting out in the wage grid will see their wages rise as much as 40%, and members at the top of the scale will see increases between 13% and 17% over the life of the agreement.”

Unifor Local 531 represents nearly 800 baggage service agents, customer

service agents and priority service agents in Calgary and Vancouver airports after being certified in May 2021.

Bargaining began in October 2021 and Unifor Local 531 filed for conciliation with the Canadian government on April 26, 2022. A deal was reached on July 24, just days before baggage and service staff at both airports were set to walk off the job on July 27.

Holland America marks one year back to cruising

SEATTLE — Holland America Line is celebrating one full year of operations following its return to sailing last year.

After the cruise industry’s two-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Nieuw Amsterdam resumed cruising on July 24, 2021 in Seattle, Washington, Holland America’s first ship back to the water. The ship reached the one-year mark while in port in Whitter, Alaska.

“The emotions and excitement from a year ago still resonate today as destinations around the world open and we persist in fully getting back to cruising,” said Gus Antorcha, president of Holland America Line.

“We are grateful to our guests who returned to sail with us, to our team members who came back to sea, to the ports that welcomed us, to our partners who stood by us, and to all

THE EMOTIONS AND EXCITEMENT

of our shoreside employees who got us back in the water. Over the past year, we have operated more than 240 cruises and we look forward to continuing to offer more memorable vacations,” he added.

Since its restart, Holland America’s 10 remaining ships resumed operations in a variety of destinations as ports reopened to visitors. In addition to Alaska, the brand has resumed travel to Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Hawaii, Mediterranean, Mexico, Northern Europe, Pacific Coast, Panama Canal and South Pacific. Before the end of 2022, the ships will return to Australia/New Zealand and South America/Antarctica.

The highly anticipated 71-day Grand Africa Voyage sets sail in October 2022, while the 128-day Grand World and 74-day Grand South America and Antarctica voyages depart in January 2023. Asia itineraries will resume in February 2023.

FROM A YEAR AGO STILL RESONATE TODAY.

HOLLAND AMERICA'S NIEUW AMSTERDAM CELEBRATES ONE YEAR BACK TO CRUISING

Credit: Holland America Line

Hola Sun and OWG celebrate new partnership at Toronto Pearson

TORONTO — It was a flight to nowhere, with no flight plan, checked luggage or any of the hassles that come with flying nowadays. But the festive atmosphere onboard Hola Sun Holidays’ and OWG’s celebratory flight on July 27 from Toronto Pearson International Airport was still hard to beat.

To celebrate its new partnership with OWG, its dedicated carrier to Cuba, Hola Sun invited approximately 130 travel agents and travel partners to board a one-hour flight from Toronto last week, and participate in a fun-filled day of good food, entertainment and product updates. Several suppliers, including new hotels, handed out complimentary beach bags and goodies while a Cuban band serenaded guests. Several door prizes were also given away.

Each guest was given a personalized boarding pass before walking across the tarmac to board their flight experience. OWG’s flight crew greeted them with glasses of Prosecco and provided fresh food trays that would be typically served on its flights.

OWG’s flights to Cuba fly with Boeing 737-400 and include complimentary meals, 1-piece checked luggage(up to 23kg) and a carry-on (up to 9kg). Seat selection and Seat Class upgrades will be available up to 24 hours prior to departure, at an additional fee.

As Hola Sun’s exclusive carrier to Cuba, OWG, a subsidiary of Nolinor Aviation, a 100% Canadian company based in Quebec, will offer flights to four gateway cities: Varadero, Cayo Coco, Holguin and Santa Clara.

New hotels for Hola Sun Holidays include: Grand Sirenis Cayo Santa Maria; Iberostar Esmeralda Cayo Cruz; Grand Aston Cayo Paredon Beach Resort; Melia Trinidad Peninsula;

Gran Muthu Almirante Beach Hotel in Guardalavaca; Hotel Tesoro Del Atlantico in Holguin; and Grand Aston Cayo Las Brujas Beach Resort & Spa in Cayo Santa Maria.

Also new to Hola Sun’s product lineup are two LGBTQ properties: Telégrafo Axel Hotel Havana and Grand Muthu Rainbow Hotel in Cayo Guillermo.

Hola Sun is also debuting a brand new destination: Cayo Paredon, a tiny island located approximately 30 kilometres from Cayo Coco International Airport. It spans just 8.7 square kilometres and is located in the King’s Gardens archipelago.

“We are excited to share our news today introducing our new destination to Cayo Paredon and our new partnership with OWG Airlines,” says Hola Sun Holidays’ Sabrena Dayle, Sales & Marketing. “Agents will love the free onboard meals, check-in baggage and advance seat selection. With this new partnership, we will have much more flexibility over our Cuba program this winter season.”

To celebrate the upcoming season, Hola Sun will be offering a special ‘Deal of the Week’ each week on select product, available for booking over a three-day period. In addition, ‘Hola100’ will be available from time to time with a $100 savings per adult on select properties. Plus, Hola Safety Ring is still in place and more popular than ever in today’s travel climate. It allows passengers to cancel up to three days before departure with an in-house future travel credit valid for

up to 11 months.

Hola Sun’s Group policies have also proven popular/ These include a flexible deposit available with $100 per person and final payment due 25 days prior to departure.

Travel agents can also look for Hola Sun’s DIY – Do It Yourself fam rates, coming this fall.

G Adventures tapped to be first operator to return to Trans Bhutan Trail this September

TORONTO — After two years of extensive restoration and a delayed launch due to the pandemic, the Kingdom of Bhutan is set to reopen its historic and sacred Trans Bhutan Trail for the first time in 60 years this September.

The trail will be officially reopened in a formal ceremony in Bhutan on Sept. 28, 2022. Following the ceremony, G Adventures, the trail’s exclusive launch partner, will be the first group adventure operator to return, with its inaugural sold-out departure on Oct. 2, 2022.

“We’re honoured to be working with the Bhutan Canada Foundation and the Trans Bhutan Trail to launch this

HOLA SUN AND OWG TEAMS CELEBRATE AT TORONTO PEARSON

newly restored route in magical Bhutan, and we’re thrilled with how popular the new trips have been, even with the delay in reopening,” says Yves Marceau, vice president of product at G Adventures.

“It’s a country we’ve run tours in for more than a decade and have long admired for its commitment to the happiness of its people and sustainable way of life, both philosophies that align with our values as an organization. G Adventures is the pioneer of community tourism and being able to give travellers an exceptional travel experience and simultaneously provide much-needed economic benefits to local people is our mission as a business,” he adds.

Marceau notes that G Adventures’ new trips take travellers through forests, meadows and rural settlements around the Dzongs. Travellers can expect an average of 3-4 hours of hiking each day, plus local meals each

night, whether they are camping or staying in homestays, hotels or local guesthouses.

Two new Active trekking itineraries are available to book with G Adventures in Bhutan into 2023. The 11-day Camp the Trans Bhutan Trail will include camping and homestays, while the 12-day Highlights of the Trans Bhutan Trail will feature accommodations in homestays, locally-owned guesthouses and hotels. Both tours focus on trekking specially selected parts of the 403-kilometre trail.

In addition to Bhutan, other long-awaited destinations returning to G Adventures’ portfolio of more than 1,400 trips this September include Australia and New Zealand, both of which have reopened borders for international travel.

TRANS BHUTAN TRAIL

“A bona fide wonder”: Ace Hotel Toronto opens its doors

TORONTO — Toronto has welcomed a new ace of a property – the Ace Hotel Toronto, now open for booking.

Located in the city’s historic Garment District at 51 Camden Street, the 123-room, ground-up project designed by Shim-Sutcliffe Architects is within walking distance of famed music venues, galleries, bars and restaurants, at a nexus of neighbourhoods including Queen West, Downtown

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and Chinatown. It’s also anchored by Alder, a seasonal wood-fired restaurant from Chef Patrick Kriss, which will open for dinner service on Aug. 9.

Other highlights include The Lobby, featuring a menu of drinks and small plates and open-to-all arts, culture and music programming, a rooftop bar and lounge called Evangeline (opening soon) that will host DJs every weekend, original artworks by primarily Canadian artists, an in-room vinyl collection curated by independent Toronto record label Arts & Crafts, as well as three multi-functional event spaces.

“Toronto is a city that embraces originality and is rooted in the same open-to-all philosophy that founded

Ace,” said Brad Wilson, CEO, Atelier Ace / Ace Hotel Group. “We could not be more proud to open Ace Hotel Toronto. The architectural magnificence of Shim-Sutcliffe Architects’ work has created a bona fide wonder.”

Rates start at $399. For more information go to www.acehotel.com/ toronto.

Second guest sails free with Scenic and Emerald Cruises

HOLLYWOOD, FL — Scenic Group has launched its ‘Second Guest Sails Free’ offer on a variety of river and ocean cruises.

The offer applies to both Scenic and Emerald Cruises lines, and is good on all Europe and Asia river cruise departures between now and June 30, 2023.

For Emerald Cruises river sailings, the offer is for cabins on the Vista or Horizon decks. For Scenic, the offer is for all river cabins.

On the oceans, Emerald Cruises is extending the deal on all 2022 and 2023 Arabian Sea departures. Scenic is also extending the offer to all 2022 and 2023 Eclipse Americas departures, which includes cruises along both the east and west coasts of Canada and the United States, as well as a variety of sailings in Latin America.

Canadian Airports Council (CAC) has a new permanent president at its helm. Monette Pasher, who was named interim president on Jan. 24, 2022 while the CAC conducted a nationwide search for a permanent leader, began her new role on Aug. 1, 2022. Prior to her new role, she served as executive director of the Atlantic Canada Airports Association where she helped raise the profile of Atlantic Canada’s airport community, built strong relationships with federal and provincial government officials and Canadian air carriers, and successfully supported its members throughout the pandemic.

Her appointment was announced by the Airports Council International –North America (ACI-NA), the trade association representing commercial airports in Canada and the United States. The CAC is the Canadian division of ACI-NA, comprising 58 members that represent more than 100 airports across Canada.

The special offer is valid on new bookings made between July 25 and Aug. 14 on applicable 2022 and 2023 river and ocean cruises. Both guests must be in the same cabin and payment must be made in full within 72 hours of booking.

SAMPLE RIVER ITINERARIES

Emerald Cruises’ eight-day ‘Sensations of Lyon and Provence’ sails along the Rhône an Saône rivers and offers a mis of historic tours, visits to wineries and local markets and plenty of free time for guests to explore on

Monette Pasher is the new permanent president of the CAC

ACE HOTEL TORONTO

their own. As with all Emerald Cruises’ itineraries, price is inclusive of all meals, gratuities, tours and airport transfers to and from the ship.

Scenic is introducing a new eightday itinerary for 2023: Charming Castles & Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle. Sailing between Frankfurt and Basel, guests will sample the world-famous wines of the region and explore such majestic castles as Burg Eltz, which dates back 850 years, and Château du Haut- Kœnigsbourg that overlooks the Alsace plain.

SAMPLE OCEAN ITINERARIES

The ‘Gems of the Arabian Peninsula’ on the luxury yacht Emerald Azzurra explores the historic countries of Qatar, Oman and the United Arab Emirates, including Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Highlights of this eight-day itinerary include the desert island of Sir Baniyas Island and the Portuguese-influenced Khasab in Oman, nicknamed the ‘Norway of Arabia’ for its dramatic mountains, cliffs and fjords. Guests aboard the ultra-luxury Scenic Eclipse will sail from Lima, Peru to Santiago, Chile on the 11-day ‘Latin America Delights.’ While on this voyage, they’ll see many of South America’s best sites on the west coast, from waddling penguins to the world’s driest desert.

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Canopy by Hilton Toronto Yorkville Hotel on track for November opening

TORONTO — Canada’s very first Canopy by Hilton Hotel is one step closer to opening.

The new Canopy by Hilton Toronto Yorkville Hotel, owned and managed by Easton’s Group of Hotels and located at 387 Bloor Street East, has completed its structural framework, a milestone that was celebrated with an official ceremony on July 21 at the hotel’s construction site. The 184-room hotel is scheduled to open its doors in November 2022.

“Today is a significant milestone

for the construction of this property and a testament to the skill and diligence of all parties involved,” said Reetu Gupta, Chairwoman and Ambassadress of The Gupta Group and Easton’s Group of Hotels. “We’re excited to bring Canada’s very first Canopy by Hilton Hotel to Toronto. The hotel, with its premium location, will bring a unique blend of luxury, convenience and urban living, offering a new way for guests near and far to experience the city.”

NCL announces new VP, Strategic and National Accounts

NCL has appointed Brennan Quesnele as Vice President of Strategic and National Accounts. Quesnele, who succeeds Glen Rothe, will be responsible for driving National Account Sales in Canada and the U.S. and implementing new sales opportunities, channels and strategies. He brings with him more than 20 years of experience, most recently serving as Vice President of Sales at GOGO Vacations.

Moving on from his previous role, Rothe will be leading a new division within the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Charters, Meetings and Incentives group. Further details will be revealed shortly.

Upon completion in the heart of Toronto’s Yorkville neighbourhood, Canopy by Hilton Toronto Yorkville Hotel will feature a modern café with retail offerings on the main floor, a restaurant featuring views of Bloor Street and the Rosedale Valley, an indoor heated pool, yoga and fitness rooms and meeting spaces. Guestrooms, which are called ‘Just-Right Rooms’ for their intuitive comfort, will be situated from the second to ninth floors, while the remainder of the 55-storey building will comprise Gupta Group Developments’ Rosedale on Bloor residential units.

More information about the new hotel, including details about local attractions and a street-facing café with a retail boutique, will be revealed leading up to its grand opening in November.

For more information go to stories. hilton.com.

CANOPY BY HILTON TORONTO YORKVILLE HOTEL

Air Canada extends pause of Aeroplan points expiry to May 31,

2023

MONTREAL — Air Canada has announced an extension to its temporary pause of Aeroplan points expiry.

The inactivity policy was placed on hold during the pandemic to help members who were not necessarily earning points while at home. The inactivity policy was also made more flexible during the pandemic, increasing to 18 months in advance of the Aeroplan program relaunch in November 2020.

To cater to members who are not yet ready to travel, Air Canada is extending its pause on expiry of points until May 31, 2023. This means that between now and May 30, 2023, any Aeroplan points that would have expired will not.

Effective May 31, 2023, the normal expiration policy will once again apply, meaning points will expire if an eligible transaction has not been completed within the 18 months prior to this date.

want our members to remain active in the Aeroplan program and

Three ways to spend a day in Antigua and Barbuda

The twin islands of Antigua & Barbuda are home to some of the most beautiful beaches, breathtaking sights, and terrific cuisine in the Caribbean.

Voted the World Travel Awards 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018 Caribbean’s Most Romantic Destination, this dynamic paradise offers visitors two uniquely distinct locales with ideal temperatures year-round, a rich history, exhilarating excursions, and award-winning resorts shared between them.

The welcoming character of Antiguan & Barbudan culture draws many to its shores, while the incredible diversity of experiences keeps them coming back.

If you’re interested in spending some time on the sublime sister islands of the Caribbean, we’ve come up with a few highlights guaranteed to get you daydreaming about white sands and blue waters.

LEARN TO SAIL

Embrace the storied Antiguan sporting tradition by learning how to sail! Sailing and boat racing are an integral part of the Caribbean lifestyle, with March and April typically serving as the height of the sailing season.

Sailors from all over the world converge on Nelson’s Dockyard (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) during the last week of April to prepare for the fun and festivities of the renowned Antigua Sailing Week.

If you’re just looking to get your sea legs, NauticEd is a great organization

that offers courses for new hands and experienced sailors. If you'd like to get your feet wet with aquatic excursions of a different sort, you’ll find many kitesurfing, diving, and snorkelling opportunities at any of the island’s larger beaches.

EMBRACE BARBUDAN BLISS

Easily accessible from Antigua by both air and ferry, Barbuda nonetheless feels like its own, mystical little world.

The perfect day trip for lovers of nature and seekers of solitude, Barbuda offers the chance to escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet day on its famous pink sand beaches.

Journey to the lagoon at the island’s centre and visit its colony of red-throated Frigate birds, who dazzle with their vivid and energetic mating displays. Explore some of the coastal caves before heading to the internationally acclaimed Nobu Beach Inn for a curated sushi menu that pays delicious homage to the bounty of Barbuda’s reefs.

WELLNESS FOR THE SOUL … AND WALLET

Yoga on the beach represents the natural synthesis of two profoundly relaxing activities. Find your own sandy nirvana when you visit Antigua’s Energie, a beautiful studio with a panoramic view situated in English Harbour. Stretch your stress away with classes for all levels of yoga enthusiasts.

If you instead believe that shopping is the best therapy, make time to visit Heritage Quay. This duty-free outlet mall in St. John’s is the best place to grab locally made souvenirs, comfortable beachwear, and the latest designer fashion.

For more detail see VisitAntigua Barbuda.com

“We

WE WANT OUR MEMBERS TO HAVE SEVERAL WAYS TO CHECK TO MAKE SURE THEY’RE NOT AT RISK OF HAVING THEIR POINTS EXPIRE.

have several ways to check to make sure they’re not at risk of having their points expire,” says Air Canada. These include the following:

• At any time, members can view the date their points may expire by logging into their account dashboard.

• Aeroplan sends members reminders to customers at risk of their points expiring to encourage members to make a qualifying transaction such as: linking their Aeroplan account to their Starbucks and/or Uber/Uber Eats accounts and making a qualifying purchase, using an Aeroplan credit card, shopping online via the Aeroplan eStore at retailers like Amazon, The Bay, Sephora, Dyson, Lululemon, and the Gap, staying at one of our partner hotels like Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, or even donating points to Aeroplan charities.

For members who do end up expiring, after May 30, 2023, as part of the policy, Aeroplan will reinstate all their points if they fly with Air Canada, or if they get an Aeroplan co-brand credit card via one of its partners –TD, CIBC, American Express or Chase – within six months of the day the points expired.

Explora Journeys unveils sneak peek at Ocean Terrace Suites on new EXPLORA

I

GENEVA — Explora Journeys has provided a sneak peek of new Ocean Terrace Suites on its first ship, EXPLORA I, ahead of its grand debut in May 2023.

As the lead in category, Ocean Terrace Suites span 377 square feet and have been dubbed ‘Homes at Sea’ for their vibrant design and modern

European craftsmanship. Along with the 420 square-foot Ocean Grand Terrace Suites, they are among the largest rooms in the industry, featuring private terraces that range from 75 to 118 square feet.

Elevating the suites to a luxurious home, each ‘Home at Sea’ comprises a walk-in wardrobe with a seated vanity area, heated floors in the bathrooms, personal binoculars, wireless bedside charging, a personal minibar that’s replenished according to the guests’ preferences, an espresso machine with biodegradable pods, a kettle and teapot, and a complimentary personal refillable water bottle for each guest. All guests also benefit from 24-hour guest services.

Switzerland Tourism (ST) has appointed Oliver Weibel as its new Director for Canada. Weibel, who has worked at the national tourism board’s headquarters since 2017 as marketing manager, will take over the role from Pascal Prinz on Nov. 1, 2022. Prinz will be moving on as Switzerland Tourism’s new Director, Global Accounts and will be based out of Zurich.

Prior to his new role, Weibel held several positions in the international hotel industry, most recently working as Head of Sales & Marketing and Congresses & Events at the Hotel Einstein in St. Gallen, where he was responsible for the North American market. At ST, he has been part of the accommodation & hospitality marketing team in Zurich since 2017. As Director for Canada, Weibel will be responsible for tourism marketing for ST in Canada, and will be based in Toronto.

In addition to Ocean Terrace Suites and Ocean Grand Terrace Suites, EXPLORA I also offers Owners Residences that span 3,014 square feet. In total, there are 461 oceanfront suites, penthouses and residences, each featuring their own spacious private terrace, floor-to-ceiling windows and a neutral colour palette. Explora Journeys’ commitment to sustainability is also reflected in the ship’s responsible sourcing of materials, refillable bathroom amenities and no single-use plastic onboard policy.

Sales are now open for the Inaugural Journeys Collection for EXPLORA I from May 2023. In its first year, the ship will visit 132 ports in 40 different countries including two destinations – Kastellorizo, Greece and Saint Pierre, Martinique – that have rarely been visited by cruise ships before.

Oliver Weibel named as Pascal Prinz’s successor at Switzerland Tourism

PASCALPRINZ

EXPLORA

The itineraries include the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the UK, Iceland, Greenland, Canada, the U.S. East Coast, Caribbean, South America and Hawaii. Sailings start from six-night journeys and culminate in a 44-night Northern Europe and Grand Journey.

For more information go to www. explorajourneys.com/traveladvisors.

NARAT’s Ultimate Madagascar FAM set for Nov. 5-17, 2022

TORONTO — NĀRAT is inviting agents on a one-of-a-kind exclusive FAM to Madagascar, departing Nov. 5-17, 2022. Agents will learn selling highlights of the renowned Ranomafana rainforest, plus visit Madagascar’s capital Antananarivo, Andasibe and Analamazaotra.

The cost is US$2,750 per agent (plus flight taxes totalling US$650) and includes accommodation in deluxe hotels, wilderness and game lodges, guided safari drives and wildlife walks, meals, entrance fees to conservation areas, and a presentation on selling Madagascar. The price also includes airfare from Toronto and all domestic and internal flights in Africa. Agents have the opportunity to participate on a seven-day extension to South Africa’s iconic Kruger National Park and Johannesburg.

Seating is limited and subject to availability. Flights for agents travelling from other gateway cities are available on request. Agents are allowed one companion subject to availability. To apply call 1-877-By-NARAT (1-877-2962728), ext. 2 or email fams@narat.org.

Disney Cruise Line unveils new fall itineraries in 2023

CELEBRATION, FL Disney Cruise Line has unveiled new fall itineraries in 2023, including its first-ever departures from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Cruises from Florida, California and New York will allow guests to set sail aboard Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime Cruises, both opening to the public for bookings on July 28, 2022.

Halloween on the High Seas cruises will return from mid-September through October 2023 and feature favourite characters dressed in Halloween costumes, Mickey’s Mouse-querade party and trick-or-treating at sea.

From early November through December, Disney Cruise Line ships will be extra merry during Very Merrytime Cruises featuring characters dressed in festive garb, a special tree-lighting ceremony, holiday décor as well as Santa and Mrs. Claus.

NEW ADVENTURES ON DISNEY DREAM

Following its inaugural season in Europe, the Disney Dream will set sail from New York City for the first time. Families will enjoy four-, five- and sixnight sailings from the Big Apple to Bermuda. Plus, a special four-night voyage on the Disney Dream will transport guests to the Canadian seaport city of Saint John.

Starting in Nov. 20, 2023, Disney Cruise Line will find a new South Florida home in Port Everglades, its second year-round homeport, offering four- and five-night cruises aboard the Disney Dream to the western Caribbean and the Bahamas. Stops include Grand Cayman, Cozumel and Nassau, plus Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island oasis.

MEXICAN RIVIERA FROM CALIFORNIA

Beginning in mid-October 2023, the Disney Magic will find its home on the West Coast, setting sail form San Diego for voyages ranging from two to seven nights to Baja and the Mexican Riviera. Guests will experience the beauty of Santa Catalina Island, California, Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico. An exclusive seven-night Mexican Riviera sailing will feature the ports of Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan and Cabo San Lucas.

DISNEY CRUISE LINE

AGENTS WILL VISIT MADAGASCAR’S CAPITAL ANTANANARIVO, ANDASIBE AND ANALAMAZAOTRA.

VACATIONS FROM PORT CANAVERAL

In the fall of 2023, the Disney Wish and Disney Fantasy will continue sailing from Port Canaveral to tropical destinations in the Bahamas and Caribbean.

The Disney Wish will sail three- and four-night cruises to the Bahamas, including visits to Nassau and Castaway Cay.

The Disney Fantasy will offer families even more time to experience Disney Cruise Line’s world-class dining, Broadway-style shows and spaces designed for the entire family during seven-night cruises to destinations in the eastern and western Caribbean.

Seabourn Venture welcomes first guests onboard

SEATTLE – Seabourn has entered a new era of adventure with the launch of Seabourn Venture, the first of two new expedition ships for the cruise line.

The ultra-luxury vessel entered service and welcomed its first guests onboard on July 27, 2022, on a 12-day Northern Isles expedition departing from Tromsø, Norway for the Arctic and the Svalbard Archipelago.

In its inaugural season, Seabourn Venture will sail a series of 12- to 15-day voyages exploring the Arctic, Greenland and Iceland, as well as the Canadian Arctic Archipelago in Nunavut. Destination highlights include Scoresby Sound ,Greenland, home to the largest and longest fjord system in the world; Sermilik Fjord in southeastern Greenland; and Pond Inlet, Nunavut, the eastern entry to the Northwest Passage.

The ship will then make its way south in October 2022, stopping at various locales in the Caribbean, Central America, Columbia, Ecuador, Peru and Chile on a series of 10- to 14-day voyages. There will be opportunities for guests to explore in Zodiacs, visit ancient Incan sites and snorkel unspoiled Caribbean coral gardens, as well as transit the Panama Canal.

Between November 2022 and February 2023, Seabourn Venture will sail from Chile to Antarctica, and cross back to explore South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. It will sail on 11- to 22-day voyages to The Great White Continent that will

include the ‘Antarctic Experience,’ offering up-close encounters with wildlife. The voyages will include multiple daily operations using Zodiacs for landings and cruising along the Antarctic Peninsula. Optional excursions will also be available, like kayaking and using the ship’s submarines.

In March and April 2023, Seabourn Venture will embark on a series of 7to 12-day expedition voyages in Brazil and the Amazon.

ONBOARD HIGHLIGHTS

As on every vessel in the Seabourn fleet, the 132 oceanfront suites of Seabourn Venture have been thoughtfully crafted and include bespoke details and tactile materials. Among a dozen public spaces sure to be popular among guests are the Expedition Lounge on Deck 4, the adjacent Discovery Center where natural and cultural programming will take place, and the Bow Lounge, a prime setting for watching marine life.

The highest indoor viewing point onboard is the Constellation Lounge on the top deck, featuring stunning 270-degree views.

The ship is equipped with kayaks and enough Zodiacs to transport every guest on expeditions at once, as well as two custom-built submarines, each with capacity for six.

For more information go to www. seabourn.com.

SEABOURN VENTURE, EXPEDITION LOUNGE

PONANT to debut refitted sailing yacht next month

TORONTO — PONANT is set to debut its iconic three-masted sailing yacht, Le Ponant, this August following a complete refit.

The 88-metre sailing yacht will relaunch next month in the Mediterranean with 10 departures and three new itineraries, followed by winter 2022/23 in the Seychelles and summer 2023 in western Australia’s Kimberley region.

With just 16 staterooms and suites accommodating a maximum of 32 guests, Le Ponant offers a 1:1 staffto-guest ratio, making guests feel like they’re aboard a private yacht. Cabins are spread over three decks, each with large windows overlooking the sea. The intimate-sized vessel also features an outdoor bar, Le Diamont restaurant, a wellness space that offers Biologique Recherche treatments, daily yoga sessions on the deck, glass-bottomed kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, diving and snorkelling equipment and a saltwater pool.

SUMMER 2022 IN THE MEDITERRANEAN

The first voyage will depart on Aug. 14 with a seven-night itinerary along Croatia’s coastline, from Dubrovnik through the Bay of Kotor, then to the Adriatic islands of Mljet, Korčula, Vis,

Hvar, Brač, Šipan, and Lopud. Activities include wine tasting, traditional sword dance performances, visits with local artists, diving excursions to World War II shipwrecks, and a tour of the oldest fishing port in the Adriatic. Prices start at $10,890 per person.

In August, Le Ponant will depart on a seven-day island-hopping journey around Greece. Beginning in Dubrovnik, the yacht will set sail toward the Ionian and Aegean Seas, stopping in the islands of Paxos, which is only available to smaller ships; Kefalonia, home to limestone cliffs; the fortified peninsula of Monemvasia, in the southeastern Peloponnese; and Kythnos, one of the region’s lesser-known islands with over 100 beaches. Prices start at $9,980 per person.

In September, Le Ponant will circle around Greece’s Cycladic islands on an eight-day itinerary beginning and ending in Athens. PONANT guests will enjoy unique access to exclusive ports of

call on Tinos, Polyaigos, Folegandros, Monemvasia, Kythnos, and Spetses, due to the intimate size of Le Ponant. Prices start at $13,110 per person.

WINTER 2022-23 IN THE SEYCHELLES

New for this year is ‘The Seychelles Under the Trade Winds’ itinerary, with 11 departures on Le Ponant during the 2022-2023 season. Sailing roundtrip from Mahé, the nine-night itinerary explores a new island each day, including two new ports of call for PONANT: the African Banks north of the Amirante Islands, and Thérèse Island, both of which are uninhabited and will be available to PONANT guests for the day. An onboard expedition leader, a trio of naturalist guides, and a free dive instructor will be on hand to lead excursions. Activities include scuba diving, free diving initiation, sunrise and sunset yoga, meditation, paddle boarding, snorkelling, and outings in glass-bottomed kayaks. Rates start from $10,890 per person.

SUMMER 2023 IN AUSTRALIA

In summer 2023, Le Ponant will set sail for Australia’s northwest with 26 departures to Kimberley’s coast, which is often referred to as the “Antarctica of the tropics.” State-of-theart Zodiac boats will enable guests to reach hard-to-access points, while an exclusive partnership with the prestigious Paspaley Group will offer private scenic flights onboard one of

LE PONANT

LE PONANT

the brand’s vintage Grumman Mallard flying boats to transport guests to or from their embarkation or disembarkation point. Guests can opt to explore the Northern or Southern Kimberley Coast, with rates starting at $12,930 per person.

Here’s everywhere Princess will sail to in its 2023-24 Americas season

SANTA CLARITA — Princess Cruises’ 2023-24 Americas cruise season will be its most expansive ever, with 47 itineraries across 214 departures from seven North American homeports.

New for the season are Sapphire Princess’ two South Pacific Islands & Hawaii cruises sailing roundtrip from Los Angeles and featuring ‘More Ashore’ late-night stays in Honolulu and Tahiti and, for the first time ever, visiting Fiji. There are also a pair of Hawaii cruises with overnight stays in Honolulu on Discovery Princess, the ship’s fi rst-ever sailings to the Aloha State. Princess will also sail again from Galveston with a series of voyages in the Western Caribbean

on Regal Princess.

Princess’ 2023-24 destination highlights and deployments include:

HAWAII & TAHITI

• Sailing aboard Crown Princess, Diamond Princess, Discovery Princess, Emerald Princess, Ruby Princess, Sapphire Princess

• 17 destinations including four Hawaiian Islands and six South Pacific Islands

• 18 departures on five itineraries, ranging in length from 15-32 days, sailing from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle and Vancouver

• NEW: Discovery Princess sails two 15-day Hawaii cruises, its first ever to the state, featuring overnight stays in Honolulu

• NEW: Sapphire Princess offers a 32-day South Pacific Islands & Hawaii itinerary on two voyages roundtrip

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Andrew Ricketts rejoins VoX International to head up PR for Fort Myers

VoX International and Total Public Relations have teamed up to provide PR support for the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau in Canada. The new collaborative partnership will see Andrew Ricketts of Total PR rejoin the VoX International team. He will be responsible for executing the public relations strategy for the destination, which recently unveiled a fresh new look and tagline: Fort Myers’ Islands, Beaches and Neighborhoods.

Ricketts will work alongside Jeanette Faria, Account Manager, to lead media relations from the VoX Toronto office. For more information contact Ricketts at (416) 820-4310 or email him at andrew@voxinternational.com.

from Los Angeles, including Fiji for the first time ever and ‘More Ashore’ late-night stays in Honolulu and Tahiti

CARIBBEAN

• Sailing aboard Caribbean Princess, Emerald Princess, Enchanted Princess, Island Princess, Regal Princess, Ruby Princess, Sky Princess

• 126 departures on 18 itineraries, ranging in length from 5-21 days, sailing roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale and Galveston

• 25 Caribbean islands including Cozumel, Grand Cayman, St. Kitts, St. Thomas, Grand Turk and Princess Cays, the line’s private island resort

• ‘More Ashore’ late-night stays in Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, San Juan, St. Maarten and St. Thomas on select itineraries

MEXICO

• Sailing aboard Crown Princess, Diamond Princess, Discovery Princess

• 8 destinations including Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Manzanillo, La Paz and Loreto

• 24 departures on five itineraries, from 5 to 10 days, sailing from Los Angeles and San Francisco:

– Discovery Princess also returns to the west coast off ering 5- to 7-day Mexico cruises from Los Angeles and a special 10-day Mexican Riviera with Total Solar Eclipse, roundtrip from Los Angeles including a port call in Mazatlán on the day of the eclipse (April 8, 2024)

– Crown Princess sails 10-day Mexican Riviera cruises from San Francisco

– Diamond Princess sails a 10-day Baja Peninsula & Sea of Cortez cruise from Los Angeles

• ‘More Ashore’ overnight stays in Cabo San Lucas are featured on every 5-day Cabo San Lucas Getaway cruise

CALIFORNIA COAST

• Sailing aboard Crown Princess, Discovery Princess (newest ship), Grand Princess, Ruby Princess and Sapphire Princess

• 11 destinations in 3 countries, including 6 destinations in California (Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Monterey, Catalina Island, San Diego, Ensenada)

• 25 total departures on 13 itineraries from 3-11 days, sailing from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle and Vancouver:

– Discovery Princess returns for its west coast season sailing roundtrip California Coast voyages from Los Angeles

– Crown Princess returns, sailing the California and Pacific Northwest coasts with 5-day and 7-day sailings roundtrip from San Francisco

– Sapphire Princess offers one roundtrip 11-day California Coast cruise from Vancouver

• Select itineraries feature ‘More Ashore’ late-night stays in San Francisco, San Diego, Seattle, Victoria and Vancouver

PANAMA CANAL

• Sailing aboard Emerald Princess, Island Princess and Ruby Princess

• Two ways to see the Panama Canal: Roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale (partial transit) or ocean-to-ocean (full

transit) between Ft. Lauderdale and Los Angeles or San Francisco

• 18 destinations including Falmouth, Fuerte Amador (Panama), Cartagena and Puntarenas (Costa Rica)

• 23 departures on six itineraries ranging from 10-15 days.

Quark Expeditions offering 25% off select polar voyages

SEATTLE — Quark Expeditions has launched a new Summer 2022 promotion that includes 25% off select Arctic and Antarctic voyages.

The offer, valid until Sept. 30, 2022, represents significant savings for travellers who have always dreamed of exploring the Polar Regions, says Thomas Lennartz, Vice-President of Sales for Quark Expeditions.

“We’re thrilled to have resumed polar travel. We’ve already completed

numerous Arctic trips this season and have earned rave reviews and high satisfaction scores from our guests,” he says. “With the ever-diminishing impact of COVID-19 and the lessening – or outright termination – of travel restrictions around the globe, there has never been a better time to travel to the Arctic and Antarctic.”

Quark Expeditions’ Arctic and Antarctic 2022 season includes voyages that highlight the beauty of Greenland, the Canadian and the Norwegian Arctic and Antarctica.

Arctic 2022 voyages feature the company’s new polar ship, Ultramarine, as well as helicopter-supported adventure options, a unique Greenland Adventure Program, plus special itineraries that include the highly-anticipated return of the famous Northern Lights experience. There’s also a voyage dedicated to photography in Spitsbergen, as well as two exceptional Arctic voyages – Spitsbergen: Fjords, Glaciers and Wildlife of Svalbard, and Greenland Adventure: Explore by Sea, Land and Air.

Quark Expeditions’ Antarctic 2022 voyages include Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent and Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake, which is ideal for those with limited time. Quark Expeditions also operates voyages to the Falkland Islands and South Georgia.

For more information go to www. quarkexpeditions.com/offers.

WE’VE ALREADY COMPLETED NUMEROUS ARCTIC TRIPS THIS SEASON AND HAVE EARNED RAVE REVIEWS FROM OUR GUESTS.

CURRENT COURSES & WEBINARS

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Colombia Specialist Program

Newly launched on Travelweek’s Learning Centre is the Colombia Specialist Program, available in English and French. The course offers an opportunity for travel agents to learn about Colombia, the “most welcoming destination on earth.” A diverse South American country, Colombia features many regions to suit a wide range of travellers, including mountain ranges, vast plains, lush rainforests, and world-famous beaches.

Costa Rica Specialist Program

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.

Earn More with Delta and Agencia Global

Christine from Delta provides updates from Delta, Air France and KLM, and Jimmy from Agencia Global shows you how to earn more on your booking on one of the market’s most innovative booking platforms