Travelweek - September 1st, 2022

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River cruise lines react to Europe’s record-breaking drought

By Cindy Sosroutomo

TORONTO — It’s hard to believe that the global travel industry could be hit with back-to-back crises, but here we are – at the tail end of a global pandemic that saw widespread travel restrictions and border closures for over two years, and now in the midst of a record-breaking drought in Europe, which is drying up the very same rivers that river cruise lines sail on.

According to the EU’s European Drought Observatory, approximately 63% of the land across the EU and the UK had either drought warnings or alerts in early August, up from 46% in July. Water levels along parts of the Rhine and Danube rivers, both extremely popular among river cruisers, have gotten too low for ships to pass, impacting the multi-billion-dollar river cruise industry that has only now started to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. And even worse news? Climate experts are predicting that droughts will be a regular occurrence in the coming years due to the worsening fallout from climate change.

So how are river cruise lines responding to the current drought, and which itineraries have been impacted? We check in with several companies to assess the situation.

AMAWATERWAYS

Rudi Schreiner, Co-Founder and President of AmaWaterways, which boasts a 25-ship fleet and sails on 10 rivers in Europe, tells Travelweek that as of today, all of its ships are once again sailing their original planned itineraries following an abundance of rain on the Rhine and Danube rivers in recent weeks.

“We are seeing water levels begin to return to normal,” says Schreiner. “With 20 years of river cruise experience, we have successfully managed

low water scenarios as an ongoing part of our business. From the decision on which rivers to sail and selection of ports of call, to the design of our ships and creation of our ship itineraries, these are all factors that come into play as we introduce new experiences and make adjustments to our existing offerings.”

Schreiner also notes that AmaWaterways’ ships have been designed with “some of the lowest drafts in the industry,” which allow the company to sail through lower waters than other cruise lines, and that itineraries have been constructed to either avoid certain critical points or facilitate ship swaps between sister ships on either side of these points. To raise its ships in the water, AmaWaterways’ captains are authorized to empty the ballast and fresh tanks “if those extra few inches will get us through safely.”

In the event that the situation changes and itineraries are affected by future droughts, Schreiner says that the company is always well prepared with alternative plans, should local authorities temporarily curtail river traffi c on any portions of the Rhine or Danube rivers. These plans may include alternative docking locations, modified shore excursions and ship swaps, if necessary.

“During the cruise, guests are kept

advised by the Captain and Cruise Manager of any last-minute modifications. If modifications to the cruise have been major and warrant a Future Cruise Credit, we follow up with written communication to travel advisors and their guests within 45 days of their return,” he says. “While modifications due to low water are completely outside of our control, if a guest’s river cruise has been subject to major modifications due to low water, we offer Future Cruise Credits in line with the extent of those modifications.”

VIKING

Viking, which sails on eight rivers in Europe and offers 26 different European itineraries, is currently sailing the vast majority of its river itineraries without interruptions. However, a Viking spokesperson tells Travelweek that water levels on the lower Danube, near Bulgaria, remain unusually low, and as such, select itineraries will be affected to varying degrees.

Guests and their travel advisors will continue to be notified directly by Viking Customer Relations should the company think their itinerary may be impacted.

The spokesperson notes that Viking has two key advantages with regard to handling water level disruptions.

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“First, we own and operate our ships. We have a Switzerland-based nautical team and a network of local partner and authorities that are focused on monitoring and adapting to current water levels so that our guests experience the least possible disruption,” they say.

“Second, we strategically launch sister ships on the same itinerary, but sailing in opposite directions. In the event of low (or high) water, this tactic allows us to implement a ship swap that is typically seamless for guests. Both they and their luggage are able to be transferred to their exact, identical stateroom on a sister ship that was purposefully sailing on the other half of the river in preparation for such a disruption.”

Their statement continues: “These advantages allow us to minimize the impact that water levels can have on an itinerary, which means our guests are better able to focus on enjoying themselves and having a great journey, rather than worrying about potential changes or cancellations.”

UNIWORLD

Part of The Travel Corporation umbrella, Uniworld has 12 ships sailing on 13 rivers in Europe, with 36 itineraries that include cruise & rail and holiday cruises. In a statement to Travelweek, Ellen Bettridge, President & CEO of Uniworld, says:

“The nature of rivers is that they ebb and flow with the seasons, and we have made adjustments as necessary with current low water levels caused by the staggering summer heat. Our guests are always our first priority, so while we may have to make changes

to some of our itineraries and have had to cancel a few voyages, impacted guests and travel partners have and will receive transparent updates and the opportunity to re-book onto another sailing. Guests can be assured that we will still provide the five-star Uniworld experience that they know and expect.”

AVALON WATERWAYS

With 14 ships in its fleet, Avalon Waterways, part of the Globus family of brands, sails all of Europe’s major rivers, on 39 itineraries and eight Specialty Cruises including its Storyteller Series. At present, thanks to recent rainfalls, all of its cruises are operating normally and all waterways that the company sails on in Europe are experiencing normal water levels.

However, the temporary low water conditions on the Rhine and Danube rivers did require Avalon to alter a handful of cruises, either by coordinating minor itinerary alterations or swapping ships. But according to Stephanie Bishop, managing director of the Globus family of brands, the company was built for this, with identical Suite Ships on Europe’s waterways.

“In the rare instances guests have had to undergo a ship swap, they maintained their ship experience including stateroom, down to the number, regardless of the ship’s name,” she tells Travelweek. “During that temporary period of low waters, three of the affected cruises required ship swaps. When we experienced the lowest waters, we made the decision to cancel a few cruises on the Rhine and lower Danube Rivers.”

Bishop assures guests that low water levels has been a very rare occurrence; the last time Avalon experienced low waters was back in 2018. But when asked whether predictions

of future droughts are especially worrisome, Bishop remains confident in Avalon’s ability to handle any situation.

“Avalon Waterways operates a new fleet of Suite Ships with the latest design specifications to allow for cruising in both the best and worst circumstances. In short, we were built for this. Our drafts are extremely low, with negligible differences to other new builds in the market,” she says.

To further reassure guests, Bishop adds: “The moment Avalon has confirmation that a cruise requires significant changes, we notify guests and travel advisors. We do this prior to departure, when it’s possible.

“Avalon Waterways does all we can to avoid departure cancellations, but when an itinerary requires significant changes, we will not ask a guest to compromise their vacation. And in those cases, we provide them options for a refund or rebooking. If a guest is already on a cruise that requires modifications, we offer them options as well, including the option to depart their cruise (refunding unused days) or to accept itinerary alterations (with compensation).

“Our goal is to always do the right thing for our guests, including maintaining the integrity of our cruises, despite changing conditions.”

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Exclusive: Interview with Intrepid Travel’s new GM for North America, Tom Smith

By Kathryn Folliott

TORONTO — Intrepid Travel’s brand new General Manager for North America, Tom Smith, starts his new position here in Toronto as bookings out of Canada and the U.S. continue to soar with post-pandemic demand.

If Smith has anything to say about it, those bookings will just keep going up, up, up.

Typically - and of course ‘typically’ means ‘pre-pandemic’ - bookings from North American markets would account for about 25% of Intrepid’s global mix. Another 25% normally comes from Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), and 50% from Australia, where the company was founded more than 30 years ago.

But during the pandemic, and coming out of it, Intrepid’s North American bookings have surged past 30% and recently hit 33% year-to-date.

“Historically we were focused on Australia,” Smith tells Travelweek. “But in recent years we’ve been over-investing in the North America region. It’s a good thing,” he says with a laugh, when questioned whether or not ‘over-investing’ is a positive or a negative. “All within budget. North America is getting more of the pie. Our North American customer base is growing the fastest of all our major

markets.”

Travelweek spoke exclusively with Smith as he takes the reins as the new GM.

“WE’RE COMMITTED TO CANADA”

The momentum from North American markets is perfect for Smith as he starts his new role.

He joins Intrepid’s Toronto-based North American team with seven years of Intrepid executive experience. He’s a newcomer to Canada, but not to the company.

He got his start at Intrepid as Marketing Director in the UK, then headed to South America to head up Intrepid’s DMC in Peru. From there he took on the role of Regional General Manager for Intrepid’s network of DMCs across EMEA. Prior to joining Intrepid, he worked in the tourism sector in Australia and Morocco.

Smith is now responsible for driving Intrepid’s commercial success in North America, implementing strategic plans, managing day-to-day business, and growing the Intrepid brand.

Smith reports to Intrepid’s North America President, Matt Berna, who since 2021 has overseen the company’s dedicated North American operations hub.

Berna says he’s excited to have Smith join the North American team. As Berna puts it: “Our old notion of regional offices being classified as an operating office (DMC) or a sales office, or even service centres, no longer fits our current business model. Tom’s role will support our global structure and vertically integrated operations.”

Smith can hit the ground running here, as Intrepid worldwide is already back to pre-pandemic sales levels.

And it’s clear from the Toronto HQ for the North America operations that Canada is a priority for Intrepid.

“The vast majority of our North American staff is based in Canada, and we’re committed to Canada and growing our business out of the Canadian market,” Smith tells Travelweek. One in five North American market bookings are from Canada.

What’s worked really well for Intrepid here in Canada is growing the company’s partnerships, says Smith.

Not surprisingly, given its mutual Australian roots, Intrepid works a lot with Flight Centre, here in Canada and around the world. Another partnership working well for Intrepid in this market is Adventure Canada, which sells Intrepid’s polar product.

Intrepid is also making big strides in the U.S. At the start of 2022 the company announced its acquisition of Wildland Trekking, an environmentally-conscious U.S.-based tour operator. It was just the latest step in Intrepid’s investment and growth within the U.S., which was accelerated by the pandemic as interest for unique domestic travel options in the country spiked following international border closures. The acquisition bolstered Intrepid’s U.S. tour range by over 400%.

Smith says Canadians have taken

“CANADIANS REALLY LIKE OUR STYLE OF TRAVEL”

CUSCO, PERU

INTREPID TRAVEL’S NEW GENERAL MANAGER FOR NORTH AMERICA, TOM SMITH

to the Intrepid ethos and travel style, outpacing other regions despite the relative smaller size of this market.

Globally renowned as a leader in responsible travel, in 2018 the carbon-neutral and sustainable travel-focused business became the world’s largest travel company to be certified B-Corp, with recertification in 2022. Intrepid has been carbon neutral since 2010. “We’re making sure we walk the walk and talk the talk,” says Smith.

It’s all part of Intrepid’s goal to grow with purpose and become the world’s first $1 billion adventure travel company. Bringing more senior leadership into North America will accelerate that goal.

The company's mission is to create positive change through the joy of travel, and to that end Intrepid offers 1,150+ trips on every continent, in 130+ countries, with each itinerary designed to engage local culture. Plus, the company’s not-for-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, has raised more than US$11 million for more than 130 charities around the world.

On the importance of travelling sustainably, Smith says “Canadians have picked that up sooner than other markets. And Canadians really like our style of travel.”

MORE PREMIUM TOURS ON THE WAY

Demand will no doubt surge even more with brand new Premium tours in Europe and beyond. The launch is

coming soon and the new tours will start in 2023, complementing existing Premium offerings in destinations including Africa and Asia.

The popular range of Premium itineraries, offering “a more sustainable choice for high-end adventures,” according to Intrepid, first launched in 2020. More tours were added in early 2021.

As with all Intrepid tours, the Premium range is 100% carbon offset and designed to have a low environmental footprint and a positive impact on local communities.

“People want adventure. They want to sit with the gorillas in Uganda and they want to explore the Inca Trail in Peru, but they don’t want to sacrifice comfort to do that,” says Smith. “So we’re expanding our Premium range into Europe and beyond for 2023.”

Premium tours have a different level of accommodation and transportation than other tours, but they’re still Intrepid trips, says Smith. “Luxury

can often mean a disconnect between travellers and locals,” he says. “That’s not Intrepid’s way. We emphasize meeting local people, and having unique experiences. That’s still at the core of what we do with every trip.”

TRAVELLING WITH FAMILY IN ICELAND

One of the perks of working for Intrepid is experiencing the trips firsthand. We asked Smith about his own favourite Intrepid experiences.

His very first trip with the company was an overland trip in southern Africa, and he’s never forgotten it. “I love wildlife and there’s nothing better than going on safari in Botswana and Namibia and South Africa and seeing all the animals you’ve only ever seen in documentaries.”

Another favourite was the Intrepid trip to Iceland he took with his mom, in her mid-60s at the time. “It was great to be able to take her on an Intrepid tour to Iceland and see the Northern Lights. There’s a real sense of community on our tours, and my mom really enjoyed that aspect, and I did too. We absolutely loved being able to meet people from other places around the world.”

We also asked Smith about his message for Canadian travel advisors. “We’ll be looking to grow and expand our trade relationships in Canada,” he says, adding: “We have a lot to offer travel advisors in Canada, both in terms of how we work with them, and the product we offer.”

SERENGETI SAFARI IN TANZANIA

LUXOR, EGYPT

HOTELS & RESORTS

Bahia Principe Grand Cayacoa is set to reopen its doors on Nov. 1, 2022. The all-inclusive resort enjoys a prime location in Samana in the Dominican Republic and offers 284 rooms, two pools, five restaurants, four bars and unlimited drinks at all hotel bars with a large selection of domestic liquors and beers. As part of the brand’s Grand category, guests can take advantage of unlimited Wi-Fi, three à la carte dinners in restaurants per week of stay, spacious rooms, lounge chairs, beach umbrellas and towel service for the beach, plus pools and one hour per day of free paddle surfing, kayaking or snorkelling. Nearby excursions include full-boat day adventures to Los Haitises National Park, the largest mangrove forest in twwhe Caribbean.

CRUISE LINES

Celebrity Cruises has officially begun construction on the fourth ship of its Edge Series – Celebrity Ascent. At a special ceremony at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard on Aug. 24, workers welded a ceremonial coin to a massive steel docking block forming the ship’s keel to mark the construction milestone. According to legend, the laying of the coin is thought to bless and bring good fortune to the ship. The ship is set to debut in Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades on Dec. 3, 2023 for its inaugural Caribbean season of alternating seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. Bookings are now open.

MSC Cruises has successfully completed sea trials for the new MSC Seascape, its fourth ship in the Seaside class and second Seaside EVO ship built by Fincantieri in Italy. Scheduled to be delivered in late November, the ship will come into service in December 2022, sailing year-round from Miami to the Caribbean. Two different seven-night itineraries will be available, stopping at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and Nassau in The Bahamas, San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, or calling at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Cozumel, Mexico, George Town in the Cayman Islands, and Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Onboard features include 2,270 cabins, 11 dining venues, 19 bars and lounges, six pools, the MSC Yacht Club, a waterfront promenade, a glass-floored Bridge of Sighs and 98 hours of live entertainment. Following MSC World Europa, MSC Seascape will become the second new MSC Cruises ship to launch this year.

DESTINATIONS

Israel’s main international gateway, Ben Gurion Airport, has unveiled plans to become a digital airport in the year 2023, in a bid to shorten lines for check-in and eliminate initial security checks.

Passengers will be able to weigh their suitcases at new kiosks, pay for excess weight and print baggage labels and stickers, which will be scanned next to conveyor belts.

Passengers will only go through a security check after completing the check-in process, either online or at independent kiosks in departures halls. Most of the process required to leave the country will be done online and through digital means. An estimated 18 million passengers will pass through the airport in 2022, rising to 24 million in 2023.

Puerto Rico has reported that its accommodations industry has generated US$1 billion during the first seven months of 2022. The industry achieved this milestone three months earlier than in 2021, a year that ended with $1.3 billion in accommodations revenue.

Accommodations reservations for the remaining two quarters of 2022 are projected to be above pre-pandemic levels, with Q4 hotel bookings trending 6% higher than in 2021.

BAHIA PRINCIPE GRAND CAYACOA

JASON LIBERTY (LEFT), PRESIDENT AND CEO OF ROYAL CARIBBEAN GROUP, AND LAURENT CASTAING, GM OF CHANTIERS DE L'ATLANTIQUE

Govt. fires back at airlines categorizing crew constraints as a safety-related issue and denying refunds

TORONTO — Are flight disruptions due to crew constraints a safety-related issue or not?

With the motion filed by WestJet with the Federal Court of Appeal last month, that question may finally get a definitive answer, one that could impact refund policies not just for WestJet but for other Canadian carriers as well.

WestJet filed the motion on Aug. 10 in a bid to quash a directive from the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) to pay a passenger $1,000 in compensation for a flight disruption caused by crew constraints. Air Canada has also come under fire for denying refund claims based on crew constraints.

Categorizing flight disruptions due to crew constraints as a safety-related issue has left many passengers looking to claim refunds out of pocket. Canada’s passenger rights charter, the Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR), mandates airlines to pay up to $1,000 in compensation for cancellations or significant delays that stem from reasons within the carrier’s control when the notification comes 14 days or less before departure. But airlines don’t have to pay if the change was required for safety purposes.

Air Canada has said it remains committed to continue fulfilling its

obligations under APPR. Air Canada also points to a study by the CTA, published November 2020, of airline handling of APPR cases. As Air Canada notes, it found that “there was no evidence gathered during the course of the inquiry that suggests that the respondent air carriers deliberately mischaracterized flight disruptions or miscommunicated to passengers with the purpose of relieving themselves of their obligations towards passengers.”

Broader APPR rules are set to come into effect Sept. 8, 2022, “to ensure passengers are compensated for flight delays, cancellations, and other incidents that may be out of an air carrier’s control,” according to Transport Canada.

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT FIRES BACK

At the Aug. 19 hearing into Canada’s airport chaos, Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra said he didn’t want to pre-judge individual claims now in the hands of the CTA. “But I don’t feel that labour issues can be used” to reject compensation claims, he said.

Meanwhile the federal government’s latest airport operations update, issued on Aug. 24, includes the most specific reference to date about airlines categorizing crew constraints as safety-related issues and therefore denying refund claims.

“In Canada, airlines must follow the requirements of the Air Passenger Protection Regulations, which outline compensation requirements for passengers for flight disruptions due to incidents within an airline’s control, including crew shortages if the airline could have prevented the flight disruption with proper planning,” says

the statement from the government, right off the top.

It adds: “New regulations taking effect on September 8, 2022, will also ensure that passengers are offered the option of a refund for flights that are cancelled, or where there is a lengthy delay due to reasons outside of an air carrier’s control.”

ACV unveils its first-ever, digital-only Sun Collection brochure

MONTREAL — Air Canada Vacations has launched its first-ever, digital-only Sun Collection brochure, completely replacing the need for a printed brochure.

Called ‘Dream of Sun,’ the interactive digital resource dives into the tour operator’s 2022-2023 Sun Collection, featuring over 600 mostly all-inclusive hotels across 38 destinations, including 67 new additions, three resorts exclusive to Air Canada Vacations, and 29 semi-exclusive resorts. Available at agents.dreamofsun. aircanadavacations.com, the brochure boasts an interactive design that includes images, video and editorial content like destination highlights, and allows viewers to search by hotel name, category or popular filters like hotels where kids stay free.

As a resource tool, travel advisors can guide their clients to bucket-list destinations by sharing links of each vacation package, allowing them to easily review the company’s new Sun Collection. Air Canada Vacations will be hosting a webinar session on Sept. 8, 2022, in both French and English, to demonstrate the brochure’s features. Click here to view the times of each session and to register.

I DON’T FEEL THAT LABOUR ISSUES CAN BE USED” TO REJECT COMPENSATION CLAIMS, SAID MINISTER ALGHABRA.

FULL-PAGE AD

TOP HIGHLIGHTS

Air Canada Vacations is once again highlighting LGBTQ+ friendly hotels in its Sun Collection, as well as an eco-friendly spotlight for resorts certified for their green policies and support of local communities. Travel advisors can easily tailor vacations with more than 96 Play Collection resorts and 20 Play hotels in the USA. And for those looking to set sail again, the tour operator also offers hundreds of cruises in its lineup.

2022 #ACVDREAMMAKERS

EVENT

Travel advisors are encouraged to attend this year’s #ACVDreamMakers event either virtually or in person. The event will take place at the Centre Mont-Royal in Montreal on Sept. 20, 2022 at 5 p.m. ET, with presentations on ACV’s new collections in both English and French. To register click here.

TRAVEL AGENT TOOLKIT

A Travel Agent Toolkit will be made available on Sept. 20 during the #ACVDreamMakers event, or by distribution through their Area Sales Manager. The toolkit includes relevant information to help agents book their customer’s next vacation, as well as a step-by-step guide to using the digital brochure, the most recent flight schedule for winter, an overview of available hotels and cruises as well as promotions and ACV offers.

EARLY BOOKINGS SAVINGS

Clients who book their 2022/2023 winter package to Mexico and the Caribbean at least four months in advance will enjoy significant savings with ACV’s Early Booking Bonus. Families can save $600 (family of four, or $150 per person) when booking their 2022/2023 winter holiday through their travel advisor.

CAREFLEX & CAREFREE

Travel advisors can earn up to 20% commission and give their clients peace of mind with ACV’s CareFree and CareFlex plans. For $69 (Canada & U.S.) and $99 (Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America & Europe) per person, the CareFlex travel protection plan allows clients to transfer their package, change their departure date, destination or hotel, and cancel with a full refund up to 21 days prior to departure, or cancel with an inhouse credit up to three days prior to departure. For $69, the CareFree travel protection plan includes free seat selection and a Price Drop Guarantee.

WestJet steps up calls to drop mask mandate for air travel, citing safety issues for flight crews

CALGARY — WestJet is calling for the removal of the mask mandate for air travel, saying that mask compliance continues to be a major factor in disruptive behaviour onboard its aircraft.

“We are emerging into a post-pandemic travel reality, and we recognize that many of our guests have experienced travel-related challenges and we understand how frustrating it can be when travel does not go as planned. Yet, as the overwhelming majority of our guests continue to do an exceptional job navigating travel, it only takes one instance of disruptive behaviour onboard our aircraft to create stress and uncertainty for all guests and crew,” says WestJet in its statement.

“While disruptive incidents are rare, unfortunately, mask compliance continues to be a common motivator of unruly behaviour onboard our aircraft,” says the carrier.

WestJet adds: “In alignment with our promise to prioritize the safety

and well-being of everyone in WestJet’s world, we continue to advocate for the removal of legacy pandemic measures that are no longer backed by science and require our crew members to uphold measures that have been lifted in every other sector within our country.”

The statement notes that WestJetters have been committed to safety ever since the airline took flight more than 26 years ago. “Many aspects of air travel have changed over the last two and half years; our unwavering commitment to safety has not.”

CLEARER SKIES AHEAD

Meanwhile both WestJet and Air Canada are seeing clearer skies ahead, based on the latest operational stats and outlooks.

WestJet’s latest update, for the week Aug. 15 - 22, shows the carrier continued to improve on its completion factor from the week prior, completing 99% of all scheduled flights throughout the week.

WestJet also says 64.9% of all of its scheduled and operated flights arrived within 15 minutes of their scheduled arrival time. The airline says it continues to lead amongst major Canadian air carriers for its on-time performance.

Over at Air Canada, the carrier’s chief financial officer, Amos Kazzaz,

told an investors conference on Aug. 23 that the airline expects the airport chaos at Canada’s biggest gateways to ebb in the coming months as more hires come onboard.

“As time goes by, we certainly don’t expect to see this sort of disruption into 2023. I think it will continue to improve,” said Kazzaz, as reported in The Globe and Mail.

Last month Air Canada released its latest operational stats, including a 48% reduction in delays for the week of Aug. 8 versus the week of June 27, and for the same time period, a 77% reduction in the number of cancelled flights.

Canada Jetlines will take flight with

TorontoCalgary route

TORONTO — Canada Jetlines has confirmed its first scheduled flight from Toronto to Calgary departing next month.

Set for its grand debut on Sept. 22, 2022 as Canada’s newest leisure airline, Canada Jetlines will begin operations with biweekly flights operating Thursdays and Sundays out of Toronto Pearson (YYZ) to Calgary International

People

Jane Clementino joins TRAVELSAVERS Canada team

Jane Clementino is making the jump to TRAVELSAVERS Canada, where she will take on the role as Senior Vice President and General Manager Canada, effective Sept. 6. The well-known Canadian travel industry veteran, who most recently served as Managing Director for Discover the World, will oversee business development, sales and the day-today operations of the TRAVELSAVERS’ Canadian team in addition to managing the strategic partnership duties from Cathie Lewis Hardy, who is retiring after 20 years within the company.

With over 30 years of experience in the travel industry, Clementino is credited with increasing sales and growing Discover the World’s partner base by 60% in the last year. Prior to that, she held senior roles at WestJet and WestJet Vacations, growing sales by over 35% and managing a sales portfolio of $1.6 billion.

(YYC) at 7:55 a.m., and returning from Calgary to Toronto at 11:40 a.m. Frequency will increase to 3x/week, Thursdays through Sundays, starting Oct. 13.

The new route will be the first operated by Canada Jetlines, with more routes to other destinations to be announced soon.

“Canada Jetlines is proud to launch our initial flights between Toronto to Calgary, two vibrant Canadian cities with numerous tourist destinations including Niagara Falls, Lakes of Ontario, and the CN Tower in the East, and Banff, Kananaskis, Canmore, Lake Louise, Jasper and the Rocky Mountains in the West,” said Eddy Doyle, CEO of Canada Jetlines. “The two cities represent cultural diversity, economic trade and significant investment opportunities. We are encouraged to continue expanding our reach, with the goal of serving as Toronto’s preferred airline.”

Bob Sartor, President and CEO of The Calgary Airport Authority, added: “The launch of Canada Jetlines is yet another milestone marking recovery in the travel and tourism sector. YYC is eager to welcome Canada Jetlines’ guests by showcasing the effortless and memorable experiences that reflect our region and Calgary’s legendary hospitality.”

Travellers can book reservations and vacation packages with preferred travel agents, who earn up to 10% commission on all base fares when contracted directly with the airline.

THE LAUNCH IS YET ANOTHER MILESTONE MARKING RECOVERY IN THE TRAVEL AND TOURISM SECTOR."

Carnival updates pre-cruise testing protocols

MIAMI — Carnival is informing passengers and travel agents of additional updates to its pre-cruise testing protocols for unvaccinated guests for voyages departing September 6, 2022, and later.

The changes are consistent with what local destinations have advised will be acceptable for arriving cruise guests, and Carnival will continue to work closely with local destinations to protect the health of its guests, crew and the communities the cruise line visits.

The updated protocols are:

• In addition to lab administered tests, self-testing is accepted for unvaccinated guests on cruises 15 nights and shorter.

• Certain destinations do not accept unsupervised pre-cruise self-testing, including Bermuda, Canada, Greece, and Spain. If used for visiting these destinations, self-testing must be supervised by a medical professional.

• Regardless of the type of test taken, unvaccinated guests will be required to present their negative test results via VeriFLY or as part of the embarkation process.

Carnival also says travel insurance is no longer a requirement for unvaccinated guests unless it is required by a destination, such as Bermuda. Irrespective of vaccination status, travel insurance is required for all guests visiting Fiji.

Carnival announced eased booking measures on Aug. 12, which sent bookings soaring. The cruise line said booking levels in 2022 versus 2019 doubled on Aug. 15, just days after the announcement.

Details on guidelines for submitting proof of testing and other COVID-related protocols are available on Carnival’s Have Fun. Be Safe. information portal.

Three reasons to visit St. Kitts this winter

At just 37 kilometres long, St. Kitts is a tiny island – the smallest country in the Western hemisphere in fact. But despite its diminutive size, this fascinating place packs a punch, promising exhilarating adventures, a dual island experience and a dynamic culinary scene that will enthrall even the most discriminating foodies.

Often referred to as ‘the best-kept secret of the Caribbean’, St. Kitts is a place you want to keep all to yourself. A perfect combination of untamed beauty and sophisticated surroundings, it offers an authentic island experience without feeling overdeveloped, but with all the modern amenities you want, and expect, from your beach holiday.

EMBRACE ESCAPISM

While there are delightfully secluded beaches and plenty of luxurious hotels with picturesque pools at which to laze away your days, an inviting backdrop of verdant peaks, clear waters and lush rainforest beckons with heart-thumping diversions for those seeking something more.

Activities like zip-lining through the rainforest, hiking to the edge of a dormant volcano or getting offroad with an ATV will deliver the adrenaline hit you seek.

And if you’re a history buff, climb to the top of Brimstone Hill Fortress (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), ride the scenic ‘sugar train’ that winds its way through old plantations, or take in a rum tasting at Old Road Rum, on the site of the oldest surviving rum distillery in the Caribbean.

DOUBLE YOUR FUN

No trip to St. Kitts would be complete without a day trip to its sister island, Nevis. Grab a water taxi for a quick trip to this serene island that boasts hiking on Nevis Peak, lush botanical gardens, relaxing hot springs, a charming downtown and Hamilton House, the birthplace of the renowned Alexander Hamilton. Whatever your itinerary, no visit is complete without a visit to Sunshine’s Beach Bar for a world famous Killer Bee cocktail – it packs a sting!

SAVOUR ST. KITTS

While there are endless ways to work up an appetite here, there are equally endless ways to satisfy it.

Naturally the island has an abundance of charming toes-in-the-sand spots serving the freshest sea-tofork fare, but every visitor in search of local flavour must visit The Strip, the undisputed beachside hangout for tasty cocktails, delicious food and dancing under the stars.

Discerning diners in search of their next brag-worthy experience will find it here too – whether its indulging in a curated tasting menu surrounded by waterfall, feasting on an ‘edible landscape’ at a harvest table in the rainforest, or dining by candlelight inside a 300-year old sugar mill, St. Kitts is a destination that serves up something special.

For more information on planning a visit to St. Kitts, visit stkitts tourism.kn.

A winning team: Wyndham Hotels & Resorts & Palladium Hotel Group

TORONTO — Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Palladium Hotel Group announced have signed a commercial alliance that will add more than 6,500 rooms to Wyndham’s Registry Collection. The 14 all-inclusive TRS Hotels and Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts managed by Palladium Hotel Group are located in Mexico, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Brazil and will join Wyndham’s portfolio under a long-term agreement, bringing Wyndham’s all-inclusive resort portfolio to 26 hotels.

As part of the agreement, Palladium Hotel Group’s two all-inclusive luxury brands – Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts and TRS Hotels – will join Wyndham’s leading luxury Registry Collection brand. These include:

• Family All-Inclusive Vacations with Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts: The hotels offer an all-inclusive experience with a wide array of sports and leisure activities, entertainment, excellent dining options and extensive services and facilities for families,

couples, and business groups.

• Adults Only All-Inclusive Luxury Resorts with TRS Hotels: A great adults-only experience with exclusive butler service and personalized attention for couples and single travellers.

The first four properties to join Registry Collection Hotels under this alliance include:

• Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa, Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort & Spa and Grand Palladium White Sand Resort & Spa in Riviera Maya (Mexico): Situated along the coast of the Riviera Maya, the resort complex is located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum. The property features 1,100 fully-equipped rooms as well six freshwater pools and the Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness.

• TRS Yucatan Hotel in Riviera Maya (Mexico): This 5-star luxury hotel features butler and 24-hour room service, an infinity pool, a VIP adults-only beach, and the Chic Cabaret & Restaurant, a three-hour gastro show with over 20 artists and a varied gourmet menu.

Additional Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts and TRS Hotels properties that joined the Registry Collection in August and September include:

• Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa (Cancun-Costa Mujeres, Mexico)

• Grand Palladium Vallarta Resort & Spa (Riviera Nayarit, Mexico)

• Grand Palladium Palace Resort Spa & Casino, Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & Spa, and Grand Palladium Bávaro Suites Resort & Spa (Playa Bávaro-Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)

• TRS Turquesa Hotel (Playa Bávaro-Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)

• TRS Cap Cana Hotel (Cap Cana-Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)

• Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa and Grand Palladium Lady Hamilton Resort & Spa (Montego Bay, Jamaica)

• Grand Palladium Imbassaí Resort & Spa (Imbassaí, Brazil)

Additionally, the 271-room Dominican Fiesta Hotel & Casino, also managed by Palladium Hotel Group, will be joining Trademark Collection by Wyndham. The resort six restaurants and bars, a swimming pool, a sports centre with seven tennis courts and a well-equipped spa.

All 15 properties will become part of the award-winning Wyndham Rewards loyalty program, which offers its approximately 94 million enrolled members the opportunity to redeem points at thousands of hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals globally.

For more information, visit www.wyndhamhotels.com and www.palladiumhotelgroup.com.

Credit: Palladium Hotel Group

Palladium Hotel Group invites guests to enjoy its D.R. properties

Palladium Hotel Group continues to position itself as the safe and flexible choice for the ultimate vacation getaway with its properties in the Dominican Republic.

These include Grand Palladium Palace Resort, Spa & Casino, Grand Palladium Bávaro Suites Resort & Spa, Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & Spa and TRS Turquesa Hotel in Punta Cana and the adult-exclusive TRS Cap Cana Hotel.

With an ambitious vaccination campaign in place, the D.R. strives to be one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean, and with an array of offers ideal for a spring getaway, Palladium Hotel Group says it remains the number one choice for a fun and safe vacation.

The D.R. also has a Responsible Recovery of Tourism plan and is the only country providing an international tourist medical assistance plan covered 100% by the government.

Recently named one of Conde Nast Traveler’s ‘Prettiest Countries in the World’, the D.R. is home to five of Palladium Hotel Group’s premier properties located on the destinations most secluded beaches.

TRS Cap Cana Hotel offers an exclusive stay in an adults-only seafront hotel. Grand Palladium Palace Resort, Spa & Casino, Grand Palladium Bávaro Suites Resort & Spa and Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & Spa offer world-class services and thrilling entertainment for couples, friends and families. TRS Turquesa Hotel is perfect for those looking to visit Punta Cana and stay at an adults-only beachfront hotel, offering couples

seeking a romantic vacation or groups of friends looking to enjoy a relaxing getaway the privacy and personalized service of an exclusive VIP getaway.

LEADERS IN ALL-INCLUSIVE

There's an array of packages and activities offered at the all-inclusive Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts and TRS hotels. An evolution of the all-inclusive hotel concept, ‘Infinite Indulgence’ offers excellent cuisine and beverage options without guests having to worry about escalating costs. Services include 24-hour butler service and complimentary access to on-property facilities.

The Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts brand offers guests a wide range of services for families, couples, and groups, as well as services designed for events, business meetings, incentive travel, and weddings.

The resorts - all located by the sea - offer luxurious facilities for both adults and children, with personal attention guaranteed. The TRS Hotels brand offers a luxury getaway where guests can enjoy freedom and comfort in an exclusive setting.

Plus, Palladium Hotel Group continues to provide guests with a worry-free experience. The hotel group’s health and safety protocols are certified by SGS, the world's leading inspection, verification, testing, and certification services company.

For more information visit palladiumhotelgroup.com.

TRS CAP CANA HOTEL

CAP CANA - DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Transcend Extraordinary

Coming Oct. 1: Secrets Impression Moxché

The countdown is on for the grand opening of Secrets Impression Moxché on Oct. 1, 2022.

Situated on the shores of Playa del Carmen, Mexico, the all-new, all-suite, all-adult romantic boutique experience thoughtfully crafted to impress will mark the introduction of the Impression concept to the Secrets portfolio.

All guests enjoy: personal butler service; no checkin or check-out times; 24-hour concierge and laundry services; a complimentary 20-minute wellness experience; fully stocked in-room wine refrigerator; twice-daily refreshed minibar customized to personal preferences; and free-flow access to adjoining Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen. The luxury resort features oversized oceanfront villas and suites, masterful artisanal cuisine, and an awe-inspiring rooftop restaurant, lounge, and infinity pool with 360-degree views, seven heated pools and three manmade cenotes.

Other high-end amenities include a welcome bottle of local liquor, a bottle of sparkling wine and fresh

fruit, premium bed and bath linens, complimentary WiFi, welcome gifts and more. Guests will also enjoy fine dining at Teodoro, an Author’s Choice signature restaurant featuring a rotating menu designed by its Master Chef, as well as a premier dedicated beach area and the Spa by Pevonia featuring 16 treatment rooms, five VIP double treatment rooms, a hammam bed and an outdoor pool with pressure jets and waterfalls.

As for activities, Secrets Impression Moxché Playa del Carmen offers an array of entertainment options both day and night. Guests can enjoy live musical performances and spectacular shows, or head down to the water for beach volleyball and windsurfing. They can also sign up for full- and half-day tours and excursions that highlight ancient Mayan culture, plus take advantage of discounted green fees at Gran Coyote, El Camaleon at Mayakoba and El Tinto Golf Courses.

To learn more about all ‘Endless Privileges’ inclusions, go to SecretsResorts.com/ImpressionMoxche.

Royal Caribbean to drop testing for vaccinated travellers, allows unvaccinated guests to sail

MIAMI — Royal Caribbean International has announced new eased protocols for passengers at this point in the pandemic.

Starting Sept. 5, the cruise line will welcome all guests – unvaccinated and vaccinated – to sail.

The new guidelines are:

• Unvaccinated guests can cruise with negative results from any commercially available test, including self-tests.

• No testing is required for vaccinated guests sailing on cruises that are nine nights or less.

• For all sailings, guests 5 years old and younger have no vaccine or testing requirements.

• On sailings of 10-plus nights, guests – vaccinated or unvaccinated – must provide a negative test within three days of their sailing date.

As RCI notes, due to local regulations, sailings to or from Australia, Bermuda, Canada or Singapore still require guests to be vaccinated.

More information on Royal Caribbean’s current measures are available at royalcaribbean.com/ the-healthy-sail-center.

Uniworld dropping vaccination requirement for 2023 sailings

TORONTO — Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has announced eased COVID-19 protocols taking effect next year.

A statement from Uniworld says the cruise line will drop COVID-19 vaccination requirements for passengers sailing with the cruise line in 2023.

Passengers are cautioned however that they must still follow COVID-19 rules, if applicable, for countries on their itineraries.

Here is Uniworld’s statement in full:

“While we will continue to require our guests to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 through 2022, we have made the careful and informed decision to not require COVID vaccinations for guests traveling with Uniworld in 2023.

“However, guests will be required to follow the entry requirements specified by each country visited along their itinerary—by river, land or rail.

“Entry guidelines for travel to each destination can be found on our Travel Requirements page and guests are responsible for ensuring they meet the travel entry requirements of each country visited during their river cruise.”

GUESTS WILL STILL BE REQUIRED TO FOLLOW THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS SPECIFIED BY EACH COUNTRY.

MSC announces changes to Winter 2022/23 program

GENEVA — MSC Cruises has announced several updates to its Winter 2022/23 program.

The cruise line is alerting travel advisors and their clients of the following:

• MSC Virtuosa will replace MSC Preziosa in Northern Europe, offering the planned ‘Northern Pearl’ sailings, a new winter itinerary in 2021. The seven-night cruises will call in Hamburg, Germany; Bruges and Brussels in Belgium; Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Paris, France; and London, UK.

• MSC Preziosa will now be based in Santos, Brazil, offering a range of mini sailings and seven-night voyages that include Uruguay and Argentina,

UNIWORLD'S S.S. LA VENEZIA

as well as cruises calling at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for New Year’s and Carnival in February. MSC Preziosa’s local season will finish with a 22-night Grand Voyage from Santos and Rio de Janeiro to Northern Europe for summer 2023.

• MSC Bellissima will replace its sister ship, MSC Virtuosa, in the Mediterranean where it will offer planned seven-night sailings calling at the Italian ports of Genoa, La Spezia and Naples before heading to Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona and Marseille.

For more information go to www. msccruises.ca.

Hurtigruten Americas adds 3 industry veterans to its Canadian sales team

TORONTO — Hurtigruten Americas says it has significantly increased its presence in the Canadian travel trade market with greater support and outreach.

Hurtigruten Americas, which handles both Hurtigruten Expeditions and Hurtigruten Norway, has more than doubled its Canadian sales team with three new additions.

Émilie Giguère, Jake Rogers, and

Carmen Wakileh recently joined the Canadian sales team alongside Kristin Erz, Sales Director (Canada) and Carly Biggart, VP Sales (Americas).

Says Erz: “We are so excited to have these three amazing talents join Hurtigruten as we will truly be able to focus much more on the Canadian small-ship cruise and adventure travel market. Their expertise and background will make us stronger and more competitive in this important market where we see nothing but mutual sales growth opportunities with our partners.”

She adds: “We know our Canadian guests love the Hurtigruten experience and brand, and we cannot wait to bring that to more Canadian travellers through our travel advisor partners. And for our French Canadian partners, we have almost 50 French-escort sailings through 2024 across a variety of destinations that you can offer your clients.”

Here’a look at the new additions:

Jake Rogers, BDM, Western Canada

Based in Kelowna, Rogers supports

B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Yukon, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. He got his start in the tourism industry in his native Australia, and brings more than a decade of experience in travel and tourism, most recently working with Rezgo and Air New Zealand. His first experience with Hurtigruten Expeditions was Alaska. He can be reached at (604) 817-9717 and jake.rogers@ hurtigruten.com.

Émilie Giguère, BDM, Eastern Canada

Giguère is based just outside of Montreal supporting Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, Newfoundland & Labrador. She comes with 20 years of experience in the travel industry, most recently working with Tahiti Tourisme North America and Princess Cruises, and Cunard Line. Her first experience with Hurtigruten Expeditions is the Galapagos Islands. She can be reached at (514) 212-4762 and emilie.giguere@ hurtigruten.com.

Carmen Wakileh, Inside Sales Representative, Canada

Wakileh is based in Toronto supporting the Canadian sales team. She brings 18 years of travel industry experience to the table, including inside sales roles at Transat and ACV. Her first experience with Hurtigruten Expeditions will be an itinerary including Iceland, Greenland and Canada. She can be reached at carmen.wakileh@ hurtigruten.com.

HURTIGRUTEN'S MS FRIDTJOF NANSEN

WE WILL TRULY BE ABLE TO FOCUS MUCH MORE ON THE CANADIAN SMALL-SHIP AND ADVENTURE MARKET."

Trevello (TPI) is Uplift’s top agent partner for Q3

TORONTO — Trevello (TPI) network has been named ‘Top Agent Partner - Q3’ by Uplift.

Zeina Gedeon, President and CEO of Trevello Travel Group, says travel advisors Josephine Cruz and Jonathan Miguel took 1st and 4th place, respectively.

Midway into the quarter, Trevello is seeing exponential growth in the Canadian market, adds Gedeon.

“We believe that innovation and personalization are the keys to travel recovery. Our travel advisors are some of the best in the industry. We have also been actively training our Travel Advisors, so the company has a growth ecosystem. With our new brand strategy and partners like Uplift, there is more to come at Trevello,” she said.

The partnership between Trevello and Uplift means Trevello travel advisors can offer flexible payment options to consumers. Gedeon says clients using Uplift find upgrades and add-ons more doable, and because Uplift pays for the file in full at the time of booking, it reduces the burden on advisors to track deposits and final payments. Gedeon says this option also helps keep Trevello’s advisors competitive as the Buy Now Pay Later concept gains traction. “The excellent

performance is a testament to how effectively this program has worked for us,” says Gedeon.

Denise Heffron, Managing Director, Commercial of Uplift, had this to say: “Installment payments are a proven way to increase conversion and drive higher booking values. Our partnership with Trevello is important to us and we are thrilled with the agent engagement thus far for Q3. We are looking forward to doing even more business together.”

Carnival Luminosa now open for sale

MIAMI — Bookings have opened for the inaugural season of Carnival Cruise Line’s newest ship, Carnival Luminosa.

Scheduled to arrive in Australia in three months’ time, the new ship will debut in Brisbane on Nov. 6, 2022 before repositioning for seasonal service from Seattle to Alaska next May.

Carnival Luminosa will be the latest Carnival ship to be adorned with the brand’s new livery, which was first introduced on Mardi Gras in 2021 and has since been added to half the Carnival fleet. The ship will also boast a vintage funnel design reminiscent of the funnels on Carnival’s original ships like Mardi Gras, Carnivale and Festivale, as well as guest favourites

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Gosling takes over as Director, Canada for Discover the World

Justin Gosling has joined the leadership team of Discover the World as Director Canada. Gosling takes over the position previously held by Jane Clementino, as the newly appointed Director of Discover the World.

Gosling’s extensive travel industry experience, more than 30 years, includes stints as Canadian Director for SkyBird Travel & Tours, Canada Country Manager for Alitalia, Regional Manager for Etihad Airways in Canada, Great Britain, Scotland and the Seychelles Islands, and USA Director of Leisure Sales for Lufthansa

like Playlist Productions, The Punchliner Comedy Club, Limelight Lounge, Piano Bar 88, Alchemy Bar, RedFrog Rum Bar, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Chef’s Table, Bonsai Sushi Express, Seaday Brunch, Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, and Cloud 9 Spa.

Carnival Luminosa will sail a variety of seasonal itineraries from Brisbane from Nov. 6, 2022 to April 13, 2023, including 3- and 4-day cruises to popular Australian ports; 6- and 7-day Great Barrier Reef and South Pacific sailings; longer 8- to 11-day voyages to destinations like Noumea an Lifou Isle in New Caledonia, Port Vila an Mystery Island in Vanuatu, and Papua New Guinea, Fiji and New Zealand; as well as a Carnival Journeys transpacific voyage as it repositions to Seattle, stopping in Tahiti, Polynesia among other destinations.

From Seattle, the ship will sail a four-month Alaska schedule with 17 seven-day sailings as well as 6- and 8-day sailings to port favourites like Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, Skagway, Icy Strait Point and the scenic cruising of Tracy Arm Fjord. Completing its Alaska season, Carnival Luminosa will operate another transpacific voyage back to Brisbane, stopping in first-time-forCarnival destinations like Kushiro, Aomori, Tokyo, Hiroshima and Nagasaki in Japan, as well as Puerto Princesa, Philippines and Bitung, Indonesia.

Itineraries include the following:

• 7-day Alaska sailing from Seattle (7/20/2023): Juneau, Alaska; Haines, Alaska; Tracy Arm Fjord, Alaska; and Victoria, BC, Canada.

• 11-day Carnival Journeys Papua New Guinea sailing from Brisbane (11/19/2023): Conflict Islands; Alotau, Papua New Guinea; Rabaul, Papua New Guinea; and Kiriwina Island.

• 22-day Carnival Journeys Transpacific sailing to Seattle from Brisbane (4/13/2023): Noumea, New Caledonia; Suva, Fiji Islands; Papeete (Tahiti), Polynesia; Moorea (Tahiti), Polynesia; and Honolulu, Hawaii.

• 30-day Carnival Journeys Transpacific sailing to Brisbane from Seattle (9/14/2023): Ketchikan, Alaska; Icy Strait Point, Alaska; Hubbard Glacier, Alaska; Kushiro, Japan; Aomori, Japan; Tokyo, Japan; Hiroshima, Japan; Nagasaki, Japan; Puerto Princesa, Philippines; and Bitung, Indonesia.

Bookings open for Silver Endeavour’s inaugural season

MONACO — Silversea Cruises has opened general sales for the inaugural season of its new ship, Silver Endeavour.

The new luxury expedition vessel will embark on 12 voyages to Antarctica from Nov. 21, 2022 to March 14, 2023. Voyages range from five to 20 days and include Silversea’s Antarctica Bridge fly-cruise sailings, as well as an extended ‘Deep South’ expedition and a new 10-day Antarctic Peninsula voyage.

The 12 voyages include the following:

• 10 Antarctica Bridge Fly-Cruise Voyages (including maiden voyage on Nov. 21): Offering the fastest,

most direct route to the White Continent, Silversea’s Antarctica Bridge enables guests to skip the Drake Passage, flying directly to King George Island in European business-class comfort. Guests will journey deep into Antarctica on voyages between five and nine days, exploring destinations like the Antarctic Peninsula, the Antarctic Sound, and the South Shetland Islands.

• Deep South Antarctic Expedition: Departing roundtrip from Puerto Williams on Feb. 12, 2023, Silver Endeavour will journey to the South Shetland Islands, the Antarctic Sound, and the Antarctic Peninsula before attempting to cross the 69th parallel south on Silversea’s first ever 20day ‘Deep South’ expedition. Guests will access some of the world’s most

remote and extreme destinations and witness rare wildlife and unique landscapes.

• New 10-day Antarctic Peninsula Voyage: Concluding Silver Endeavour’s inaugural season in Antarctica, guests will set sail on a brand new 10-day voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula, departing roundtrip from Puerto Williams on March 4, 2023. They’ll spend six days exploring the peninsula, viewing penguin colonies and other marine life.

Silver Endeavour offers an industry-high crew-to-guest ratio of 1:1 and some of the most spacious all-balcony suites in expedition cruising. Silversea has also unveiled seven suite categories onboard the ship, including the Owner’s Suite, Grand Suite, Silver Suite, and Premium, Deluxe, Superior and Classic Veranda Suites.

OWNER SUITE, BALCONY, SILVER ENDEAVOUR

Here’s what’s on the schedule for fall at Walt Disney World Resort

LAKE BUNEA VISTA, FL — What’s going on at Walt Disney World Resort this fall? A whole lot.

This year, the resort destination in Florida has planned an array of events and festivities to celebrate the spooky season. Here is an overview of festive fall offerings:

MICKEY’S NOT-SO-SCARY HALLOWEEN PARTY

The return of Mickey’s Halloween Party kicks off the fall season at Magic Kingdom Park. Scheduled on select

nights from now until Oct. 31, after normal park hours from 7 p.m to midnight, the party includes the following:

• Entertainment abounds in ‘Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade,’ the ‘Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular’ stage show, and ‘Disney’s Not-SoSpooky Spectacular’ nighttime extravaganza hosted by Jack Skellington and featuring fireworks, projections and Disney characters.

• New for 2022, guests awaiting ‘Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade,’ can ‘Stand Out’ and dance their way onto Main Street U.S.A. with a 90s crew led by Max Goof cosplaying as Powerline.

• Also new this year, guests can join zombies and cheerleaders at the ZOM-BEATZ BASH!

• Several Magic Kingdom attractions will be costumed for Halloween, including Mad Tea Party, Space Mountain, Haunted Mansion, and Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor.

• Guests can trick-or-treat their way

through the park for sweet treats.

• Guests can enjoy an event-exclusive, step-in photo experience, plus a reusable trick-or-treat bag and commemorative print.

FALL-FESTIVE DÉCOR

Festive fall décor at Magic Kingdom Park includes pumpkins and scarecrows along Main Street, U.S.A., fall foliage and garlands that will adorn shops, and pumpkin-spiced treats throughout the park. Guests can enjoy fall décor through Oct. 31 and other autumn-themed offerings at select locations throughout Walt Disney World resort.

GLOBAL FLAVOURS

Now through Nov. 19, guests can sip and savour flavours across six continents at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by

CORKCICLE. Part of ‘The World’s Most Magical Celebration’ honouring Walt Disney World Resort’s 50th anniversary, the festival includes the following:

• More than 25 festival food and wine marketplaces will take place throughout EPCOT.

• Disney culinary teams have dreamed up unique dishes as nearly one-third of the menu offerings are new.

• Live musical performances will take place at the America Gardens Theatre as part of the Eat to the Beat Concert series presented by Florida Blue Medicare. Internationally recognized artists perform Friday through Monday, while local bands will rock out Tuesday through Thursday.

• New this year, from Sept. 29-Oct. 31 (or while supplies last) is Pluto’s Pumpkin. Pursuit. With the purchase of a map and stickers, guests can search around EPCOT for hidden

People

decorative pumpkins themed to Disney characters. Guests can return their maps to redemption locations in the park to receive a festival keepsake.

WINE & DINE

The 2022-23 runDisney race season kicks off Nov. 3-6 with the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend presented by Shokz. The popular race weekend features a 5K, 10K and half marathon, as well as the Disney Two Course Challenge (10K and half marathon) and Post-Race Party. Other highlights include:

• The weekend features a ‘Coco’-themed 5K, a ‘Raya and the Last Dragon’-themed 10K, and a half marathon celebrating the music of ‘Soul.’

• Guests can experience therunDisney Health & Fitness Expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex,

including the chance to buy merchandise and gadgets for runners.

• Olympic track and field champion Sanya Richards-Ross will be among the thousands of competitors at this year’s race weekend.

• The weekend will be capped off with a Post-Race Party at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. Half Marathon and Challenge registration includes entry to this after-hours event. Friends and family can purchase Post-Race Party tickets.

• The Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend is the first of four race weekends during the 2022-23 runDisney season. Next is the 30th anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend (Jan. 4-8), the 15th anniversary Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend (Feb. 23-26), and the runDisney Sprintime Surprise Weekend (April 13-16).

For more information go to www. DisneyWorld.com and www.Disney ParksBlog.com.

Windstar to sail to Arabia in 2023-2024

MIAMI — For the first time ever, Windstar Cruises is heading to the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf.

Lira joins Crystal Cruises’ executive team

Matias Lira has joined Crystal Cruises as its new Senior Vice President, Global Sales & Guest Services. Lira has an extensive career in the cruise industry, most recently with Silversea Cruises as VP Passenger Services and Customer Sales. Before his eight years with Silversea, he spent four years with NCL. Says Lira: “I have long admired the innovative leadership and vision of Geoffrey Kent and Manfredi Lefebvre. Under their ownership, Crystal Cruises is beginning a new and very exciting chapter. I am personally committed to rebuilding the travel partner relationships that made Crystal an industry leader and a favourite of guests and travel advisors alike with best in industry support.”

The luxury cruise line, which operates a fleet of six all-suite sailing yachts, has unveiled its latest brochure featuring cruises to the Red Sea and Persian Gulf, a first for the company. Cruises begin November 2023 on the all-suite, 312-guest Star Legend.

“With impressive UNESCO sights, beautiful beaches and wildlife, top-rated golf courses, amazing snorkelling and diving and, of course, great shopping, Windstar is excited to introduce our guests to the Red Sea and Persian Gulf with new itineraries in Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Qatar,” said Windstar Cruises

MICKEY'S BOO-TO-YOU HALLOWEEN PARADE

For information about the Seychelles Islands, please visit: www.seychelles.com

Most major airlines flies to Seychelles, from Europe, Middle East, the Americas and Africa.

The Seychelles Islands: Another World

Scattered across their secret corner of the western Indian Ocean are the 115 islands of the Seychelles Archipelago, acting as a natural gateway to the many treasures of the continent.

Set in a universe of azure water, these islands are like stepping stones to the east coast of Africa, and have blessed the destination with a unique beauty for travellers to experience.

On offer is an amazing degree of diversity which takes in the contrast between 41 towering granite isles and the 74 shimmering sand cays, reef islands and atolls of the Outer Islands while the multi-ethnic roots of its relatively young society lend themselves to a varied and vibrant culture with all its people and major religions living beside one another in perfect harmony.

All the islands of Seychelles have been blessed with many natural assets and attributes including possessing a near-perfect and disease-free climate; an endless list of world-beating beaches, a sanctuary for some of the world’s rarest species of flora and fauna and an enviable conservation record whereby almost half of the

455 square kilometre landmass has been set aside as natural parks and reserves.

Seychelles is a perfect location for a variety of activities ready for lovers of the ocean with day trip packages and different excursions available. In addition, there are spas, golf trips, a vibrant nightlife, and several exciting events that visitors can enjoy during their stay.

For those looking for the unspoilt nature, powder-soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, the beaches of Seychelles are a top reason to visit. Each island has its own signature shores, from the liveliest to most secluded romantic coves protected from the prevailing winds.

Regardless of which one clients visit, they will never miss the chance to find their perfect beach.

With a unique island beauty and a place where harmony, tranquility, and nature are at their very best, The Seychelles will leave clients with incredible memories that will last a lifetime.

For more information on things to do, what to see and where to stay visit Seychelles.com.

President, Christopher Prelog. Voyages in 2023 include the following:

• The 18-day ‘Wonders of Arabia’ sails from Athens to Dubai, transits the Suez Canal and spends five days in Egypt and Jordan. The itinerary also includes an overnight in Luxor to take in the majestic Karnak and Luxor temples, followed by two days in Oman.

• The 10-day ‘Sparkling Sands & Cities of the Persian Gulf’ will sail on 11 dates from Dubai to Muscat, Oman (and the reverse). Highlights include overnights in Doha and Abu Dhabi, a late night in Ras Al-Khaimah, stops in quieter cities like Fujairah or Khasab, as well as time on Sir Bani Yas, an island known for its pristine nature and wildlife conservation.

• The 9-day ‘Arabian Nights & Egyptian Days’ will sail on two dates (one in each direction) from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia to Aqaba, Jordan (and the reverse). Highlights include overnights in Sharm el-Sheikh and Safaga with the chance to visit Luxor and the resort ports of Ain Sokhna and Hurghada.

• There is only one ‘Red Sea Revelries via the Suez Canal,’ a 12-day voyage from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia to Athens. Highlights include an overnight in Luxor, a later night in Ain Sokhna, Egypt, a transit through the Suez Canal, and a day in Heraklion, Crete.

For more information go to www.windstarcruises.com.

Viking unveils the name of its newest ship

LOS ANGELES — Viking has unveiled the name of its newest river ship at a special celebration in Luxor, Egypt earlier last week.

Designed specifically to navigate the Nile, the state-of-the-art ship, built at Massara shipyard in Cairo, will sail under the name Viking Osiris. The company’s first ceremonial godfather, George Herbert, the 8th Earl of

Carnarvon, offered a blessing of good fortune for the ship on Aug. 22 at the naming ceremony, before it sets sail on Viking’s best-selling ‘Pharaohs & Pyramids’ itinerary.

“Egypt has always drawn curious explorers for its rich history and ancient antiquities, and ever since we first began operating on the Nile River in 2004, our guests continue to be amazed by the country’s many cultural treasures,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “Today, we are pleased to officially welcome the Viking Osiris to our growing fleet on the Nile River, which allows us to welcome even more curious explorers to this incredible destination.”

The naming of the Viking Osiris comes as Egypt marks several key events in 2022, including the highly anticipated opening of the new Grand Egyptian Museum outside of Cairo on the Giza Plateau, and the 100th anniversary of the discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb by the world’s most famous Egyptologist, Howard Carter, and his benefactor and co-explorer, the 5th Earl of Carnarvon.

Hosting 82 guests in 41 staterooms, Viking Osiris boasts an elegant Scandinavian design for which Viking is known and features several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow and an indoor/

outdoor Aquavit Terrace. The ship joins the Viking Ra, which launched in 2018, and precedes the Viking Aton, an identical sister ship that will join the fleet in 2023. At the naming ceremony, Hagen also announced that two more sister ships – the Viking Hathor and the Viking Sobek – are already under construction and will be delivered in 2024 and 2025, respectively.

During the 12-day ‘Pharaohs & Pyramids’ itinerary, guests will enjoy a three-night stay at a first-class hotel in Cairo where they can visit such iconic sites as the Great Pyramids of Giza, the necropolis of Sakkara and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Beginning in late 2022, they’ll be able to visit the new Grand Egyptian Museum before flying to Luxor where they will visit the Temples of Luxor and Karnak before boarding the Viking river ship for an eight-day, roundtrip voyage on the Nile River. Highlights include Privileged Access to the tomb of Nefertari in the Valley of the Queens and the tom of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings, as well as excursions to the Temple of Khnum in Esna, the Dendera Temple complex in Qena, the temples at Abu Simbel and the High Dam in Aswan. Guests will also visit a Nubian village where they can experience a traditional elementary school.

For more information go to www. viking.com.

VIKING OSIRIS

Germany tightens COVID rules for travel during fall, winter

Source: The Associated Press

BERLIN — German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Cabinet approved legislation on Aug. 24 that ensures basic protective measures against the coronavirus pandemic are continued during the fall and winter when more virus cases are expected.

The presentation of the ruleswhich also include the new obligation to wear N95-type face masks during all long-distance travel by train and bus as well as on planes - coincided with the publication of photos showing the chancellor and German Economy Minister Robert Habeck flying to Canada earlier last week without wearing masks.

The pictures triggered strong public criticism of an alleged double standard for politicians and regular people. Currently, medical face masks are mandatory on planes and public transport though N95-style masks are

People

Scenic Group enhances senior leadership team

recommended.

Justice Minister Marco Buschmann and Health Minister Karl Lauterbach told reporters that the specific pandemic rules that apply to the German air force, which operates government flights, were met and that everyone on the flight, which also included German business leaders and reporters, took a PCR test before boarding the plane.

Still, the justice minister conceded that “politically, I would recommend to us as a federal government that we apply the same rules everywhere that apply elsewhere.”

“Because otherwise, of course, the feeling arises that you’re willing to impose something on the citizens that you don’t want to impose on yourself,” Buschmann added. “And that’s why I can also understand to some extent that there’s so much talk about it.”

In addition to the mandatory use of N95-type masks during long-distance

travel, the new measures, which will apply from Oct. 1 to April 7, will also include a nationwide obligation to wear masks in and test before accessing hospitals, nursing homes and similar institutions with vulnerable people.

Beyond that, Germany’s 16 states will have the authority to adopt their own rules depending on how severely the virus affects their areas. State governments could decide to require masks on local public transportation, in schools for students in the fifth grade and up, and at public indoor events. If the virus spreads widely again, the number of people at public events can be limited and testing can be demanded.

The new regulations still need to go to Germany’s lower and upper house of parliament for approval, but they are expected to pass.

New key hires and promotions have been announced by Scenic Group, which comprises Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours and Emerald Cruises. Claudius Docekal has joined the global senior leadership team as Vice President of Product-Ocean. Docekal most recently served as vice president, deployment at Crystal Cruises where he oversaw the Crystal Yacht & Expedition cruises brands.

Bert Goebel has been named Vice President of Hotel Operations-Ocean. He joins the company from Crown & Champa Resort Hotel Group in the Maldives.

Elisabeth Sadler has been promoted to Vice President of Product-Rivers. Having joined the group back in 2014 as part of the initial Emerald Cruises start up team, Sadler will move to oversee all river product on behalf of both Emerald Cruises and Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours.

THE RULES INCLUDE N95-TYPE FACE MASKS ON ALL LONG-DISTANCE TRAVEL BY TRAIN, BUS AND PLANES.

C LAUDIU

DOCEKAL

BERT G O E LEB

ELISABETH DLER

BERLIN