Travelweek - April 13, 2023

TRAVELWEEK'S EDITORS ON HEADLINES & DEADLINES

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SIX DECADES OF MEMORIES, FROM 1970s TO 2020s

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PLUS WELL-WISHES FROM AIRLINES, TOUR OPS, RESORTS

TRAVELWEEK'S

50TH ANNIVERSARY

By Kathryn Folliott

TORONTO — For the past 50 years

Travelweek has had the privilege of covering travel industry news for Canadian travel agents.

From the very beginning of Travelweek’s 50-year long history - going all the way back to 1973, when it was still called CTM Weekly Bulletin - founder and first editor Wayne Lahtinen made it his mission to keep Canada’s travel trade informed with the latest industry news (and industry rumours too, to the delight of readers).

Back then, Travelweek was sometimes little more than a few pages, but those pages were packed with all the latest happenings, from airlines, tour operators, tourism boards and retailers (and later, fams and jobs at the back). Lahtinen’s editorial style was succinct, with quick-hit news items that didn’t waste a busy travel agent’s time. That style became Travelweek’s hallmark through the years.

“WE WERE ON A MISSION”

For Jill Wykes, who served as Travelweek’s second editor, from 19831988, the focus was getting the scoop before anyone else.

“We were on a mission not to miss a story,” says Wykes.

Wykes, who went on to join CATO and later Sunquest after she left Travelweek, worked the phones to get the stories. “Every week I would call the regional heads of ACTA as well as leaders of major retail, wholesale and airline sectors just fishing for news,” she says. “Most of the time we did uncover something. But more

importantly, we rarely missed anything or got scooped.”

The one must-have? “It had to be news. If we didn’t have a good news story we had ways of creating one by getting reaction to questions we would pose from somebody willing to speak. It usually worked!”

The 1980s were high times for retail travel agents. “Back then most people used a travel agent to book travel,” notes Wykes. “This was before the Internet became prominent. The big concern back then was discounters who were seen as the enemy of traditional travel agencies.”

The 1980s was also a good decade for travel trade media. Asked about her favourite trips during her time at Travelweek, Wykes says: “Probably my trip to China on a CP Air inaugural flight to Shanghai – we went on to Beijing and saw all the incredible sights. The other trips that were a lot of fun were covering the ACTA conferences which used to be in international destinations in those days. Travelweek would produce the ACTA conference Daily newspaper which [Travelweek’s managing editor] Paul Vickers and I would put together. I remember going to the printers in places like Athens and Hong Kong. It was a lot of work but fun!”

Then as now, the pace was relentless. In the late 1970s, when competitors were publishing every two

weeks or monthly, Travelweek made the move to twice weekly, on a Monday and Thursday schedule. The frequency meant Travelweek could break more stories, and follow them up quickly just days later. The pace kept up in the 1980s and into the late 1990s. And now with Travelweek Daily, Travelweek’s up-to-the-minute industry coverage is emailed to readers five days a week, in addition to digital editions of Travelweek magazine, Travel Professional and more.

Travelweek’s ramped-up frequency starting in the 1970s and 1980s was a game-changer. “First we went to twice a week for parts of the year and then three times a week for a while,” says Wykes. “That seems like nothing now with digital publications, but we are talking print editions and distribution three times a week across Canada. It was a relentless schedule and a lot of pressure to come up with a good lead story.”

“WE WERE THE FIRST TO HIT AGENCY DESKS”

Patrick Dineen, Travelweek’s third editor, rose to these challenges just as Wykes had.

Dineen’s vantage point as he took over the top editorial job at Travelweek in 1988 included his 18 years at Canadian Travel Courier, then owned by Maclean Hunter.

50 years strong, and many more to come: Travelweek celebrates half a century of covering Canada’s travel industry

EVERY WEEK I WOULD MAKE CALLS. IT HAD TO BE NEWS. WE RARELY MISSED ANYTHING OR GOT SCOOPED.

Says Dineen: “I joined Maclean Hunter and was there for 18 years at Canadian Travel Courier. In the 1970s we were the top publication as we published every two weeks and tended to break many stories. It took Travelweek a few years to get going but being weekly meant they now had an advantage over us, as it took up to two weeks after deadline for Courier to be printed and mailed to our readers. I think it was 1979 when Travelweek went twice weekly and I knew that was trouble for us.”

Dineen pushed for weekly, to no avail. In 1988 he left Maclean Hunter and joined Travelweek. At the helm of the ‘Blue Rag’ for more than a quarter century, Dineen covered everything from the airline commission cuts and caps in the mid-1990s, to the Internet and OTAs in the late 1990s, to 9/11, low-cost carriers, tour operator consolidation and more.

“With 86 issues a year, we were the first to hit agency desks. I could write ‘Airlines cut commissions’ for the Monday issue and save ‘Agents slam cuts’ for the next issue and still beat everyone,” he says, adding that Travelweek’s greatest strength “was respecting our readers and looking at every story through the lens of what does this mean for a travel agent in Toronto or Flin Flon or Halifax or Kelowna.”

Dineen’s favourite trips during his time in the travel industry? “I had so many wonderful trips over the years but if I had to pick two that stand out: In 1984, when I was at Maclean Hunter, I went to the Galapagos in a 100-passenger ship. In 1994, I

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returned and sailed among the islands on a private yacht named for the Queen of Sweden and carrying just six passengers and a guide. It was like we had the place to ourselves. The other was a trip to Jordan where history was everywhere including crusader forts, Roman ruins, the Nabatean city of Petra, the Dead Sea and landscapes described by Lawrence of Arabia.”

Watching the evolution of the retail travel industry since the 1970s, Dineen says he’s struck by the staying power of travel agents. “When I started at Maclean Hunter in 1970 suppliers really relied on agents, as an airline or tour operator couldn’t open ticket offices in every town and village. This changed with the emergence of the Internet allowing suppliers to reach customers far more easily.”

He well remembers the late 1990s, “when people were calling travel agents the blacksmiths of the 21st century. I have really been struck by the resilience of travel counsellors and how they seem to have gained more respect from consumer media and the travelling public as travel becomes increasingly complicated with flight delays, cruise ship sicknesses, and so on. People booking online often have no one to call for help but someone who books through their trusted advisor has someone on their side. Rather than becoming irrelevant, travel counsellors are more valuable than ever.”

"LEARNED FROM THE BEST"

In its 50 years, Travelweek has been through more than a few changes, transitioning from a print publication to a digital edition, and maintaining up-to-the-minute industry news reporting with Travelweek.ca and Travelweek Daily. Travelweek has also evolved from one magazine to the core product of The Travelweek Group’s ever-growing portfolio of successful ventures.

When I took over as Travelweek’s fourth editor in 2016, I knew I had learned from the best. Working alongside Patrick Dineen since I joined Travelweek in 1995 as staff writer, I benefitted from his knowledge of the industry, and his keen interest in a good story, past and present.

These days I cover industry news alongside Travelweek’s deputy editor, Cindy Sosroutomo, who joined Travelweek in 2007. Our editorial coverage of the pandemic from 2020 to 2023, and in particular the pandemic’s impact on travel retailers and suppliers, is something we take immense pride in. Together with the rest of the Travelweek team, we’re working hard deliver the best and most relevant travel industry coverage to our readers. For now, and for years to come!

Check out our special 50th anniversary section in this issue of Travelweek, plus watch for interviews, memories and our ‘It Happened This Week’ contest in Travelweek Daily, running throughout 2023.

I'VE BEEN STRUCK BY THE RESILIENCE OF AGENTS AND HOW THEY'VE GAINED MORE RESPECT FROM CONSUMER MEDIA

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At Iberostar Selection Playa Mita, Wixárika cultural elements make for the perfect Mexico mix

all of them focused on this culture.” The resort also sells their handicrafts.

The family-focused Iberostar’s 451 rooms in three sections offer views of the Pacific, the mountains or the gardens, and are accessed by a wristband chip, a new-to-Iberostar technology that eliminates carrying a key (loved it!).

By Theresa Storm

RIVIERA NAYARIT — Classy. Secluded. Spacious. Tranquil. These were my impressions of the Iberostar Selection Playa Mita. The all-inclusive five-star on the Riviera Nayarit near Punta Mita, 30 kilometres north of Puerto Vallarta and 20 minutes south of Sayulita, is the sole Iberostar in Pacific Mexico and part of the brand’s Beachfront Resorts collection.

I was the only guest checking in Sunday evening after a 45-minute drive from the Puerto Vallarta airport. I was offered lavender-infused cloths and a refreshing Tajin-rimmed red hibiscus drink, which I sipped while riveted by an enormous multi-coloured jaguar head protruding above the front desk. Scanning the QR code, I learned the one-of-a-kind jaguar took six Wixárika artists 2.5 months and more than three-million beads, one of the largest pieces ever. The ancestral territory of the indigenous Wixárika (or Huichol) is the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains, which run through northeast Nayarit.

Later, I discovered more art peppering the sprawling 7.6-hectare resort, a mix of Balinese and local pieces (a self-guided art tour would be a great addition). The Iberostar is incorporating Wixárika art and cultural elements, while phasing out the almost 10-year-old property’s original Indonesian theme.

“We are the first Iberostar Beachfront hotel to have storytelling,” explains Daniel Llinás, the resort’s GM. “We have decoration details starting with our magnificent Jaguar’s Head, services like our new Wixárika tasting menu at our Pacific Express restaurant ($75 USD), activities like artisans coming to the hotel to teach bracelet-making, and shows like the sunset ritual dance at our Wirikuta Bar,

My oceanfront junior suite looked down to the pristine golden beach with bathtub warm waters, which the Iberostar shares with just one resort. Next year, construction is slated for an Iberostar Grand nearby, an adults-only premium product with 305 rooms, Llinás says. Renovation plans here include room redecorating.

Although spring break was in full swing, it wasn’t crowded or too noisy; no lounge chair saving was required. Occupancy is about 60%, which, compared to pre-COVID, is “back to normality,” says Llinás. Most winter guests hail from Canada and the U.S., particularly westerners, with Canadians comprising up to 60%.

In addition to families, the resort is a good fit for groups, meetings and conventions (five meeting rooms), and couples seeking a romantic, idyllic retreat. Destination weddings are back, says Llinás.

I witnessed no nuptials in the wedding gazebo, but the rooftop lounge terrace overlooking the ocean provides a spectacular sunset backdrop

ALTHOUGH SPRING BREAK WAS IN FULL SWING, IT WASN’T CROWDED OR TOO NOISY; NO LOUNGE CHAIR SAVING WAS REQUIRED

for dinner and dancing. It certainly did for the lively weekly Mexican Fiesta. That’s just one of the myriad activities guests will find with free WiFi on the Iberostar app (a paperless initiative that needs some tweaking). It includes scheduled activities offered by the Star Friends entertainment team, things to do, tours, bars, restaurants and menus, etc.

I enjoyed morning yoga, aqua aerobics in the huge freeform pool, a body scrub and massage at SPA Sensations, an aguachile cooking class, and a tour with Dressel Divers, the onsite PADI-certified diving centre, to the Islas Marietas National Park in Banderas Bay.

Breaching humpback whales and leaping mobula rays elicited “oohs” before the boat circled the uninhabited islands for views of the 90+ species of nesting seabirds, including blue-footed boobies. Divemaster Bruno then guided a group snorkel to look at colourful reef fish. For divers, four sites are conveniently located near the Iberostar. Dressel also offers PADI courses, jet skis, sport fishing, whale watching (winter), and surf classes and excursions.

Back at Iberostar, those with energy can hit two tennis courts, Technogym equipment in the fitness centre, the activity pool for games like waterpolo, or play pingpong or billiards. Within the grounds is the 18-hole, Par 72

Higuera Golf Club designed by Greg Norman, with oceanfront holes and a peninsula green. Shuttles to Sayulita and Puerto Vallarta are also available (extra cost).

For youngsters (4 - 17), Star Camp focuses on local culture and caring for the planet, plus outdoor play on Aquafun’s waterslides and in the splash pool. Lifeguards are on duty at the beach and the pool. Other family-friendly services include kids’ menus and a babysitting service.

When the sun begins to drop, the oceanfront rooftop Wirikuta Bar is the ideal place to witness it set behind Punta Mita. Don’t miss the Monday Sunset Circus on the adjacent lounge terrace, a high-calibre show, as was much of the entertainment.

In addition to a buffet for dinner, four international restaurants include Asian, Mexican, a steakhouse, and a train-themed gourmet. At the new El Agave Mezcalería, guests can enjoy a sommelier-led tasting of Mexican spirits (US$45). And the 24-hour Starcafé is always popular.

As part of Iberostar’s Wave of Change commitment to responsible tourism, the hotel eliminated single-use plastics. By 2025, it will be waste-free and use 100% sustainable seafood, and by 2030 will be carbon neutral. The resort has earned LEED Gold and EarthCheck certifications.

For more information visit Iberostar’s site at https://www.iberostar. com/en-ca/hotels/riviera-nayarit/ iberostar-playa-mita.

CRUISING

Holland America Line is getting ready to celebrate a day 150 years in the making. The cruise line’s sesquicentennial birthday is April 18, 2023, and on that date, Rotterdam VII will arrive at its namesake city of Rotterdam, the Netherlands, to revel with local dignitaries, port officials and guests. Zuiderdam will be at Amsterdam that day and will host an evening gala party on board for Grand World Voyage guests. Holland America Line’s President, Gus Antorcha, will lead the celebrations. Also scheduled to attend the events are Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands, Rotterdam’s godmother; Ahmed Aboutaleb, Mayor of Rotterdam; and descendants from two families of Holland America Line’s original founders.

Princess Cruises has announced its longest voyage ever, set to depart in 2025. The epic 116-day World Cruise onboard Island Princess will traverse over 33,500 nautical miles and visit 51 destinations in 26 countries and six continents. Destinations include Australia, New Zealand/South Pacific, the Mediterranean, Central America, Africa and Asia. Plus, the cruise will include Princess’ first-ever visit to Bar, Montenegro and Taranto, Italy, along with inaugural World Cruise calls to the Greek island of Patmos and Volos. Two roundtrip options with departures from Ft. Lauderdale will be available, both embarking Jan. 5, 2025, and well as from Los Angeles on Jan. 20, 2025.

TECH

Air Canada and Amadeus have expanded their long-standing partnership. Air Canada will enable access to its full range of New Distribution Capability (NDC)-sourced content through the Amadeus Travel Platform by leveraging Altéa NDC, Amadeus’ IT solution that enables airlines to provide enhanced travel retail experiences by distributing personalized and tailored offers. Additionally, the airline’s traditionally sourced content (EDIFACT) will be available worldwide to travel sellers and corporations that utilize the Amadeus Travel Platform. As an Amadeus Altéa customer for its passenger service system, Air Canada will benefit from a single passenger name record (PNR) for managing the end-to-end passenger experience. Advantages also include increased efficiency and seamless integration of Altéa NDC with the Amadeus Travel Platform, enabling travel sellers to efficiently shop, book and manage NDCsourced travel content.

AIRLINES

Emirates is stepping up its frequency with two additional flights per week between Dubai and Toronto. Starting April 20, Emirates will offer daily flights on the popular route. The move follows the expanded air transport agreement between the United Arab Emirates and Canada, announced last week. Emirates has been serving customers between Toronto and Dubai since 2007. The carrier’s flagship A380 aircraft on the Dubai-Toronto route has capacity for 491 passengers across three service classes. With the two additional flights per week, Emirates will offer close to 2,000 additional seats on the route.

SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL

Planeterra, the world’s leading non-profit dedicated to uplifting communities through travel, has announced the launch of the second round of the Global Community Tourism Fund, a grant program that fosters entrepreneurship and innovation for community tourism enterprises worldwide. Through this fund, Planeterra provides grants up to US$3,000, as well as community specific training and mentorship to help local entrepreneurs and communities scale up and improve existing experiences. The aim of this initiative is to create opportunities for local people to reap the benefits of tourism.

TRAVELWEEK'S

50TH ANNIVERSARY

Travelweek’s incredible history spans 50 years - and six decades. From the very first issues in 1973 - and through a half century of the travel industry’s high points and unthinkable challengesTravelweek has been there, and we’re still going strong in 2023. Take a look at those six memorable decades in this special ‘Decades’ spotlight section commemorating Travelweek’s 50th anniversary.

And remember to also check out Travelweek Daily and Travelweek.ca throughout 2023 for special executive interviews, travel advisor memories and the ‘It Happened This Week’ contest, all to celebrate our milestone year!

With all our best wishes for a wonderful year ahead! The Travelweek Team

The 1970s

Deregulation of the airline industry in the U.S. in 1978 changed travel forever. As airlines battled it out for market share, fares began to inch down, and route networks grew. Many in the Canadian airline industry wanted deregulation too, but it wouldn’t come for a few more years. However Canadian travellers were soon enamoured of the charter holiday concept brought over by enterprising Brits, laying the foundation for tour operators like Sunflight and later, Carousel. Consortiums like GIANTS were on the rise. American Airlines introduced SABRE, the first CRS, in the 1960s and more followed, and by the mid-1970s travel agents got CRS access. And ACTA debuted after ASTA-Canada folded.

Laker Airways pioneered low-cost air travel and its ‘Skytrain’ flights between London and NYC were a big hit. Travelweek’s own Sue Winiecki was a Laker Airways flight attendant! Meanwhile the first major discount airline in U.S., Southwest Airlines, started in 1971.

On the high seas, some of the biggest players in the cruise industry, including Carnival and Royal Caribbean, first set sail in the early 1970s (Princess Cruises and NCL had a head start, launching in the late 1960s). Walt Disney World opened in 1971. And after successful hotel openings in Toronto in the 1960s, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts founder Isadore (Issy) Sharp took his company international with the 1970 opening of the first Four Seasons property overseas: Inn on the Park London (later Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane).

TRAVELWEEK WAS THERE: Travelweek’s founder and first editor and publisher Wayne Lahtinen, soon joined by associate publisher, managing editor and Ryerson buddy Paul Vickers, kept their new publication (CTM Weekly Bulletin) going in the lean early years thanks in part to a generous offer of free office space from Goway founder Bruce Hodge. The Circulation Dept. was managed by Paul’s wife Pat, who kept track of subscriptions on index cards stored in shoeboxes.

1 NCL (Norwegian Caribbean Lines) cabins, 1974 2 Onboard experience with NCL (Norwegian Caribbean Lines), 1974

3 Carnival Cruise Line's original Mardi Gras (1972), and Carnivale (1975)

4 CTM Weekly Bulletin, October 1976

5 Air Canada DC-9 in the 1970s 6 Lowcost airline pioneer Freddie Laker (and Travelweek's Sue Winiecki next to Freddie on the right) 7 Roy O. Disney and Mickey Mouse, October 1971

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The 1980s

Many regulations governing the Canadian airline industry finally loosened in 1987, and Air Canada and CP Air / Canadian Airlines went head to head for market share. Meanwhile Wardair, offering holiday charter flights since 1962 and beloved for its personalized service, came into its own in the 1970s and 1980s. The decade ended with the sale of Wardair to PWA Corp., and it was absorbed into Canadian Airlines.

On the tour operator side, Sunflight was Canada’s largest tour op, and ITC package holidays were selling like hotcakes. And more and more travellers got their feet wet with cruising, popularized by TV’s The Love Boat. The show, which debuted in 1977 and ran until 1986, has often been called ‘the greatest product placement ever’, and sent thousands of travellers to their travel agents for cruise bookings.

In Jamaica, a charismatic entrepreneur named Gordon ‘Butch’ Stewart took the all-inclusive concept (pioneered in the 1950s by Club Med) to new heights with Sandals Resorts, starting in 1981 with Sandals Montego Bay.

The big threat to retailers? Not the Internet - not yet. For now it was tollfree 1-800 numbers and ‘going direct’ that raised the ire of travel agents. Consortiums thrived and so did retail chains, including American Express, Thomas Cook and Sears Travel.

TRAVELWEEK WAS THERE: Travelweek’s first full decade was one of growth and new direction, with editor Jill Wykes taking over the reins from Wayne Lahtinen in 1983. Lahtinen remained as publisher, with associate publisher and managing editor, Paul Vickers. Jill left Travelweek in 1988 for CATO and later, Sunquest. Patrick Dineen was named Travelweek’s editor in 1988.

1 CP Air 747 2 One of Wardair's five 747s from 1978 - 1986 3 Air Canada ad, 1987

4 Sandals Montego Bay accommodation, 1981 5 Sandals Montego Bay, 1981

6 Travelweek Bulletin, April 1987

7 NCL's Norway, 1985

The 1990s

Riding high on the retail travel industry’s boom times in the 1970s and 1980s, and 10% airline commissions, no one was prepared for what the 1990s would bring - namely, commission caps and cuts, and the Internet.

The caps and cuts were bad enough. Delta got the ball rolling in 1994 and 1995, and over the next few years airline after airline followed suit, decimating agency revenues. Travel advisors fought back, and lawsuits were filed. Many travel agents walked away from air-only bookings and never looked back.

As if that wasn’t enough, in the midto-late 1990s the Internet started to hit the retail travel sector with full force. Expedia and Travelocity both launched in 1996, and these two OTAs came to dominate online travel bookings. Traditional bricks-and-mortar agencies worked feverishly to compete, stay relevant and launch websites of their own. When the dust settled, the days of the so-called ‘ticket taker’ agency business model was waning, and the era of service fees had begun.

Also in the 1990s, cruise ships got bigger and bigger and ultimately passed the 100,000 gross tonnage mark, an unheard-of size … for a while at least. On land, all-inclusive resorts were king. There was no shortage of major tour operators, including ACV, Transat Holidays, Signature Vacations, Sunquest, Conquest Vacations, Regent Holidays, World of Vacations and more. Much-loved midsize players included Red Seal Tours and Holiday House. Both WestJet and Royal Airlines took to the skies. And a 22-year old Bruce Poon Tip, with two maxed-out credit cards, founded G Adventures in 1990.

TRAVELWEEK WAS THERE: Travelweek continued to thrive in the 1990s under editor Patrick Dineen. There was a new look for the magazine, and soon a website, and new owners Gerry Kinasz and his business partner.

ENVOY, launched in 1998 as Hippo Express, got its start handling fulfillment and distribution for

1 Canadian Airlines 747 2 WestJet's early days 3 Travelweek Bulletin, January 1991

4 ALBATours fam to Italy with Amex Travel, 1996 5 Regent Holidays ad, 1991 (Travelweek's Kathryn Folliott is 3rd from left) 6 WestJet 7 Sandals Resorts' Tour Operator Sports Day, Toronto, 1999 8 Holiday House ad, 1997

The 2000s

The travel industry, and the world, changed forever on Sept. 11, 2001. The events of 9/11, as shocking now as they were then, brought in a wave of security measures as travel slowly recovered. Canada 3000 pulled off a triple merger with CanJet and Royal Airlines but couldn’t make it through the turbulent months following 9/11. With 90+ destinations and 4,500 employees, C3 abruptly ceased operations in November 2001. Other low-cost airlines came and went in the 2000s, including Jetsgo and the very short-lived Roots Air. Meanwhile Canadian Airlines was acquired by Air Canada in 2000, which filed for bankruptcy protection in 2003 and emerged a year later. The decade also saw the debut of a strong new entrant: Sunwing, founded in 2005. Just as travel was finally fully recovering from the impact of 9/11, along came SARS. The SARS epidemic in 2003, and the H1N1 pandemic in 2009 (and later Zika in 2016), proved to be a foreshadowing of things to come.

Despite the many challenges in the 2000s, including rapidly growing competition from OTAs, retail travel agents pushed on. Cruise bookings were stronger than ever and a new way to see the world by ship - river cruising - picked up momentum in the North American market. More and more travel advisors were going home-based, mirroring trends in the U.S. On the supplier side, there was consolidation. In 2007 Thomas Cook merged with MyTravel, formerly Airtours. That brought Sunquest under the Thomas Cook umbrella. And after First Choice PLC merged with TUI, also in 2007, a strategic venture created by TUI and Sunwing Travel Group brought together Sunwing Vacations and Signature Vacations, starting in 2010.

TRAVELWEEK WAS THERE: Building on the decades-long success of its core product, The Travelweek Group’s expanding portfolio in the 2000s included a new monthly e-newsletter for homebased travel agents (now called Sphere), and The Learning Centre, an online platform for agent specialist courses. Our website, Travelweek.ca, started the decade primarily as a company info source. But big changes were coming.

1 Canada 3000 2 AmaWaterways' first ship, AmaCello, debuted in 2008 3 Roots Air logo, 2001 4 Travelweek's Annie Cicvaric (front row centre) with Sears Travel colleagues, 2005 5 Sunwing

6 Travelweek, Nov. 15, 2001 7 Jetsgo logo, 2002 8 National Car Rental ad, 2001

9 Travelweek.ca home page, 2003

The 2010s

No one could pronounce it, but for a few days it was all the travel industry could talk about: Eyjafjallajokull. When the Iceland volcano erupted in April 2010, flights were grounded over large swaths of Europe, impacting the travel plans of some 10 million travellers. It wasn’t the best start to the decade, but things quickly got back on track, leading to some incredibly profitable years for many travel suppliers and retailers. With the 2008 Great Recession in the rearview mirror, people were ready to travel. And thanks to social media platforms, from Facebook to Instagram, they were posting envy-inducing travel pics, stoking even more wanderlust.

One major travel retailer didn’t make it to the end of the ‘10s. When Sears Canada filed for creditor protection in June 2017, the future of one of the best-known brands in the retail travel industry – Sears Travel – was up in the air. Later that year TravelBrands, which managed Sears Travel, rebranded it as The Travel Experts.

TravelBrands’ parent company, Red Label Vacations, made headlines earlier in the decade when along with Thomas Cook North America’s senior management it acquired Thomas Cook’s North American assets, including Sunquest, Holiday House, FunSun Vacations, Encore CruiseEscapes and ALBATours. Speaking of Thomas Cook, that legendary travel brand was no more by the end of the ‘10s. In 2019 Thomas Cook filed for liquidation, stranding some 600,000 passengers worldwide.

There was more airline news: the grounding of Boeing’s 737 MAX took effect in March 2019, and finally lifted in Canada in early 2021. The rush to launch low-cost carriers continued unabated, including Air Canada’s Rouge and WestJet’s Swoop. In May 2019 Air Canada and Transat stunned the industry with news of their proposed merger. Two years later, as the pandemic raged on, the agreement was officially terminated.

TRAVELWEEK WAS THERE: After an incredible 27 years at the helm of Travelweek, Patrick Dineen retired at the end of 2015. Kathryn Folliott, who joined Travelweek in 1995, took over as editor, and Cindy Sosroutomo, with Travelweek since 2007, was named deputy editor. Meanwhile Travelweek Group owner Gerry Kinasz took the title of chairman, and Devin Kinasz was named publisher. Travelweek Group’s initiatives in the 2010s included the must-read Travelweek Daily, a completely revamped Travelweek.ca, the French-language industry news site Profession Voyages, and a new title - Travel Professional.

1 Air Canada and Transat, 2019

2 Central Park onboard Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas 3 Thomas Cook

4 Travelweek's Cindy Sosroutomo (centre) on a Goway South Africa fam, 2010

5 Travelweek, May 2017 6 Boeing

7 Travelweek's Devin Kinasz (2nd from right) with PropelTO, 2019

8 Travel Professional, June 2018

The 2020s

For travel industry veterans who thought they’d seen it all, the start of the 2020s was the ultimate eye-opener. The decade was just underway when passengers onboard cruise ships, notably Princess Cruises’ Diamond Princess in early February 2020, began facing coronavirus quarantine orders. By March 11 the WHO declared COVID-19 a global pandemic, and on March 16 the ‘come home now’ order went out to Canadians, thousands of whom had just left for March Break getaways.

Over the next two years, travel advisors and the travel industry faced a cascading situation that was truly unprecedented, from travel bans and border closures, to myriad testing requirements, months of sun flight suspensions, the fight for commission protection and more. When the announcement finally came in spring 2022 that the last major hurdle - the pre-arrival COVID test - was finally dropping, the news set off a demand for travel the likes of which the industry had never seen. Airlines and airports struggled to keep up, and delays and cancellations were rampant. The deal was sealed in September 2022: all remaining restrictions would be eliminated. Since then ‘revenge travel’ has surged and travel advisors are doing everything they can to manage historic levels of inquiries and bookings.

The pandemic saw the failure of one major cruise line, and ultimately its triumphant return under new owners: Crystal Cruises is back and ready to start sailing again this July. Another surprise announcement - WestJet acquiring Sunwing Airlines and Sunwing Vacations - came in March 2022. The deal was ultimately given the green light by the Canadian government just a few weeks ago.

TRAVELWEEK WAS THERE: Within weeks of the start of the pandemic, Travelweek publisher Devin Kinasz along with Travelweek’s Sales team had organized the first ‘Future of Travel’ virtual conference, providing a much-needed online forum where travel advisors and the trade could tune in to hear upto-the-minute updates and supportive words from suppliers and tourism boards. That first Future of Travel took place June 3, 2020 and since then the team has organized and presented half a dozen more. The latest edition, ‘Future of Travel: Agent Appreciation’ is scheduled for May 31, 2023

1 WestJet acquiring Sunwing Airlines and Sunwing Vacations 2 Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, coming back July 2023

3 Travelweek, September 2022

4 Travelweek, March 2020 5 Travel is back!

6 Princess Cruises' Diamond Princess made headlines in February 2020

7 Travelweek's 'Future of Travel - Agent Appreciation', coming up in May 2023

Canada Jetlines signs letter of intent for third A320 aircraft

TORONTO — Canada Jetlines has signed a letter of intent for its third Airbus A320 aircraft, expected to be delivered by July 2023.

Provided by a global aviation lessor, the new aircraft will be equipped with two CFM56-5B4/3 engines and configured with the new Recaro 3530 seats, in-seat usb power and personal electronic device holder. Canada Jetlines will also be installing the Flymingo Box system, which offers an enhanced passenger experience through its wireless inflight entertainment.

“I am pleased that we have identified our third aircraft,” stated Canada Jetlines CEO, Eddy Doyle. “We are seeing significant demand for the summer season and the addition of this aircraft will help support our existing customers and continue the Company’s growth plans.”

The delivery of the aircraft remains subject to customary conditions, including the execution of a definitive aircraft lease agreement and satisfactory inspection of the aircraft by Canada Jetlines.

Earlier this month Canada Jetlines confirmed that it has paused its domestic routes while it refocuses on sun destinations and leasing additional planes. Temporarily halted routes include twice-weekly service between Toronto and Vancouver, as well as Toronto-Calgary, with an eye to resuming service on these routes potentially in the fall.

Celebrity’s LutoffPerlo transitions to Vice Chair, External Affairs for Royal Caribbean Group

MIAMI — After heading up Celebrity Cruises, Lisa Lutoff-Perlo will transition to Vice Chair, External Affairs for Royal Caribbean Group, effective May 1.

In her new role, Lutoff-Perlo will continue reporting to Royal Caribbean Group President and CEO Jason Liberty.

Laura Hodges Bethge, currently Executive VP, Shared Services Operations, will become the next brand President of Celebrity Cruises.

“Lisa has been instrumental in transforming the Celebrity Cruises brand to what it is today,” said Jason Liberty, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “From helping us introduce the revolutionary Edge Series of ships to advancing the role of women in maritime careers, Lisa has

had an incredible career during her time leading Celebrity Cruises, and multiple parts of our Royal Caribbean International brand. I have had the pleasure of working with Lisa for almost 18 years, and I know her expertise will be invaluable as she transitions to serve as my Vice Chair, External Affairs.”

“It has always been difficult for me to imagine leaving the incredible Celebrity brand, but the time is right for me to start an exciting new chapter and turn the helm over to a new leader,” said Lutoff-Perlo. “It has been my great honour to lead this brand and work alongside the phenomenal Celebrity shoreside team and crew. Together, our accomplishments have been extraordinary. I’m excited to now work closely with Jason on broader initiatives as we sail toward an even brighter future.”

Lutoff-Perlo’s career with Royal Caribbean Group began in 1985 with her first role as a district sales manager. She went on to trailblaze a legacy of firsts and lead Celebrity Cruises to record growth, revenue and profit. Under her leadership, Celebrity Cruises welcomed four new ships, and underwent the Celebrity Revolution, one of the largest fleet revitalization projects in the industry.

In 2005, Lutoff-Perlo became Celebrity’s first female Senior VP of Hotel Operations. In 2012, she was named Executive VP of Operations for Royal Caribbean International, the first woman in the industry to oversee both hotel and marine operations.

IT HAS BEEN MY GREAT HONOUR TO LEAD THIS BRAND AND WORK ALONGSIDE THE PHENOMENAL CELEBRITY TEAM

Two short years later, she was the first woman appointed to President and CEO of one of Royal Caribbean Group’s brands.

Lutoff-Perlo’s successor, Laura Hodges Bethge, has been with the company more than 23 years. Previously, she was senior vice president of product development for Royal Caribbean International, and led the teams conceptualizing their ships, private island destinations, and new experiences introduced throughout the fleet, including the first island in Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day Island Collection – Perfect Day at CocoCay.

“Now 15 ships strong, this is an exciting time for Celebrity Cruises,” said Hodges Bethge. “This year alone, we’ll be welcoming Celebrity Ascent, and reaching key construction milestones in the yet-to-be-named fifth ship in the revolutionary Edge Series. I look forward to building on the incredible achievements of Lisa and this world class team, as we continue to break boundaries and chart new courses in the industry.”

MSC Cruises opens bookings for mega-ship

MSC World America

GENEVA — MSC Cruises has opened bookings for MSC World America.

The LNG-powered ship will be the second in the cruise line’s World Class when it launches in April 2025, offering sustainable cruising with new, immersive and unique experiences at sea.

MSC World America will sail from MSC Cruises’ new terminal at PortMiami, exclusively on seven-night Caribbean itineraries during its inaugural season. All sailings will include visits to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC Cruises’ private destination in The Bahamas.

For Eastern Caribbean sailings, MSC World America will visit Puerto Plata, San Juan and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. For Western Caribbean itineraries, ports of call are Costa Maya

People Lawson joins Trevello Travel Group as National Director of Sales & Training

Trevello Travel Group has named Susan Lawson as National Director of Sales & Training.

The industry veteran joins Trevello after eight years at Allianz Global Assistance. Lawson was also General Manager, Central and Western Canada for Air Canada Vacations, and before that she was Director of Sales for Club Med.

In her new role at Trevello Travel Group, Lawson is responsible for Sales & Training, with a primary focus on helping Trevello advisors achieve sales and deliver memorable experiences to their clients.

Trevello CEO Zeina Gedeon said Lawson’s wealth of experience and expertise will be an invaluable asset as Trevello continues to grow its business. “We are thrilled to welcome Susan to our team,” said Gedeon. “We are confident that Susan’s skills and experience will help us to achieve our goals and take our business to the next level. Susan has a wide of knowledge in dealing with advisors and has a proven track record of success.”

Lawson added: “I am thrilled to be part of this dynamic team is the perfect match for my skills and passion. I am excited to bring my enthusiasm for sales and training to the table and work together toward even greater heights.”

and Cozumel, Roatan and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

Gianni Onorato, CEO, MSC Cruises, said: “MSC World America will become the fourth of our new ships that we have deployed in the Caribbean for her inaugural season. This is not only part of our commitment to growth in the North American market but also to bring our newest and most innovative ships to the region for our international guests from around the world. This exciting new ship will definitely deliver the ultimate cruise experience in the Caribbean when she comes into service.”

The cruise line has ‘optimized’ MSC World America for North American cruising with new restaurants, bars, public spaces and experiences. MSC describes the onboard experience as ‘elegant European design meets American comfort.’

One of the new experiences on MSC World America is The Harbor, a brandnew outdoor destination located on deck 20, specially designed for kids and families to gather, play and relax together. The Harbor includes activities such as the aquapark, interactive water features and inviting areas to relax with delicious bites and cool beverages.

MSC Voyager’s Club members who book by April 12, 2023 will receive an onboard credit of 50 euros. They will also benefit from their usual Voyager’s Exclusives benefits when booking more than 12 months ahead of their departure, including a 5%+5% discount, double membership points for the type of experience chosen and a further €50 onboard credit.

MSC World America spans 22 decks, and measures more than 154 feet wide. The ship has 2,626 cabins, more than 430,556 square feet of public space, and offer top-of-the-line modern features and facilities, including 13 restaurants, 20 diverse bars, lounges and cafes, six pools and 14 hot tubs, three entertainment venues with all-new live entertainment and theatre shows, and more. A 11-deckhigh dry slide made of stainless steel gives guests a fun way to reach the lower decks in style.

Meanwhile the MSC Yacht Club features spacious suites, dedicated lounge and restaurant, private pool and sun deck facilities, and 24-hour concierge and butler service as well as spacious, luxurious suites.

The new ship will also feature systems to maximize efficiency as well as an advanced wastewater treatment systems and an underwater radiated noise management system with hull and engine room designs that minimizes acoustic sound impact, reducing potential effects on marine life.

IPW 2023 on track to return to pre-pandemic levels

WASHINGTON — It’s going to be an IPW to remember this year, with attendance on track to surpass 2019 levels.

Set to take place in first-time host city San Antonio from May 20-24, IPW, the United States’ leading inbound travel trade show, is showing strong buyer registration numbers from around the world, says the U.S. Travel Association. Canada and Mexico, for example, are presently 34% above 2019 levels, while Brazil and South America overall are 33% and 19% above 2019 levels, respectively. Australia is also trending 17% above 2019 levels.

More than 500 domestic and international media are also registered to attend.

“Given the incredible early interest and confirmed registrations from our key global inbound buyers and media, IPW will be the main arena for building back international travel to the United States,” said Malcolm Smith, IPW’s GM and U.S. Travel Association’s Senior VP of Business Development. “This can’t-miss event, coming to firsttime host city San Antonio, unites the global travel industry under one roof to conduct business face to face - a key opportunity to ensure travellers from around the world choose the U.S. when planning their trips.”

U.S. exhibitors may still add up to four partners per booth to meet this year’s strong demand.

“We encourage exhibitors to be well resourced to maximize business productivity on the show floor,” Smith added.

“IPW’s new format is unique in that it allows delegates to create the experience that works best for their objectives,” said Smith. “These opportunities add deep value to an already action-packed show.”

THIS CAN’T-MISS EVENT,

TO FIRST-TIME HOST CITY SAN ANTONIO, UNITES THE GLOBAL TRAVEL INDUSTRY

TICO names Dorian Werda as Registrar

MISSISSAUGA — TICO has appointed Dorian Werda as Registrar, Travel Industry Act, 2002.

Werda, who has been with TICO since its inception in 1997, will now oversee all regulatory functions for Ontario’s travel agencies, booking websites and tour operators.

Richard Smart, who has served the dual role of President/chief Executive Officer and Registrar since 2014, will continue as President/ CEO, focusing on overall strategic direction and stakeholder relationship management.

On Werda’s new role, Smart said: “As TICO continues its journey towards an end-to-end, digital and risk-based regulator, there was an opportunity to refine our organizational structure and how roles are aligned. Ms. Werda has been a valued member of TICO since its inception and brings a wealth of experience in the areas of compliance and enforcement to the Registrar role.

“As we evolve as an organization, we continuously strive to enhance TICO’s value proposition for both travel consumers and Ontario’s travel industry.”

COMING

IPW 2023 WILL TAKE PLACE IN SAN ANTONIO, TX

Four Canadian Direct Travel advisors named to Condé Nast list

TORONTO — Congratulations are in order for four of Direct Travel’s independent travel advisors in Canada who’ve been named to the prestigious Condé Nast Travel Specialists list.

The list, which features some 400 travel advisors and niche tour operators around the world, recognizes top advisors for their experience, expertise, resourcefulness and customer care. As Condé Nast puts it, “They’ll pull off the impossible and spare you the logistics.”

This year, Direct Travel, which recently rebranded from Vision Travel, is celebrating four Canadian additions to the list: Ariane Henry of White-Rock, B.C., who’s making her third appearance on the list; sisters Lisa and Nancy Zupancic of Toronto, who also appeared on the list last year; and Kathryn Velan of Montreal.

On making the list for the third time, Henry said: “Travel is my passion and I love helping clients really experience a new destination or a familiar place with a different lens. Helping create amazing memories for my clients brings me so much joy.”

PASSENGERS CAN COMBINE THE ANNIVERSARY SALE WITH ‘HAVE IT ALL’ PREMIUM CRUISE FARES

Holland America celebrates 150th anniversary with limited-time sale

SEATTLE — Celebrations continue for Holland America Line’s 150th anniversary, with a newly launched sale featuring cruise fare discounts, onboard spending credits and reduced deposits.

Launched ahead of the cruise line’s sesquicentennial birthday on April 18, 2023, the sale applies to most summer 2023 through spring 2024 departures. Guests who book eligible cruises will receive up to 45% off cruise-only fares, along with up to US$150 onboard spending money per guest (depending on stateroom category and length of sailing), and $150 reduced deposits.

Bookings must be made by May 4, 2023 to take advantage of the offer.

“Holland America Line’s 150th anniversary is an opportunity to show our guests how much we appreciate them, whether it’s through special

onboard activities or amazing offers like the Anniversary Sale that make cruising with us an even more valuable vacation,” said Beth Bodensteiner, chief commercial officer, Holland America Line. “Our milestone birthday this month is one that few companies ever reach, and we’re taking the year to celebrate Holland America Line and the historical significance of the brand.”

The up to $150 per person onboard spending money for the first and second guests in a stateroom can be put toward a variety of experiences and amenities, including specialty dining, spa treatments, shore excursions, beverages, photographs, souvenirs and more.

With the Anniversary Sale, travellers can explore Alaska (Alaska Cruisetours are included), the Caribbean, Mexico, Northern Europe, Mediterranean, Panama Canal, Canada/New England, Hawaii, South Pacific, South America and Antarctica, Australia and New Zealand. The Anniversary Sale is not valid on Grand Voyages and itineraries four days or less.

Guests can combine the Anniversary Sale with ‘Have It All’ premium cruise fares, which include four high-value amenities: shore excursions, a Signature Beverage Package, specialty dining in Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto or Tamarind (depending on ship), and a WiFi Surf Package to stay connected throughout the cruise.

The Anniversary Sale also is combinable with Holland America Line’s Kids Cruise Free offer where kids aged 18 and under cruise for free when traveling as the third and fourth guests in the same stateroom.

Hurtigruten Expeditions celebrates Travel Agent Day early with new promo

TORONTO — Hurtigruten Expeditions is celebrating Travel Agent Day early this year with its most extensive promotion to date.

The two-month campaign, which is not available directly to consumers, includes both a ‘Buy One, Get One’ and ‘Sell Three, Sail Free’ deal, marking the company’s most significant trade incentive ever.

Between April 3 and May 31, 2023, travel advisors can offer clients a ‘Buy One, Get One’ deal on some of Hurtigruten Expeditions’ most popular destinations. The offer is available for select Alaska, Greenland, Iceland and Galapagos itineraries departing April 18 through Dec. 30, 2023, as well as West Africa (Hurtigruten’s newest itinerary launching this fall), the Canary

People

Islands and Antarctica itineraries departing Dec. 1, 2023 through March 31, 2024.

Solo travellers, which make up nearly a quarter of Hurtigruten Expeditions’ guests, won’t be missing out either, receiving 50% off a full single-occupancy cruise fare.

Travel advisors can also earn a free Hurtigruten Expeditions cruise of their own if they sell three cabins, with free sailings available on most expedition cruises before Dec. 31, 2024.

Collette promotes Montano to VP Global Marketing

Willie Montano has been promoted to Vice President of Global Marketing for Collette. Jaclyn Leibl-Cote, Collette’s President and Chief Customer Experience Officer, says Montano’s promotion comes after a year of incredible growth and a successful brand refresh driven by marketing campaigns under his leadership.

“This past year has been such a key time in our company’s history and Willie has done a tremendous job leading the global marketing operations organization in a way that truly reflects Collette’s values and culture,” said Leibl-Cote. “Since joining our team in 2022, he has brought so much value, collaborating with every area of the business to develop a ‘metrics-first’ marketing department culture.”

In his new role, Montano will oversee global marketing, including production, and marketing in Canada, the U.S. and Australia. He will continue to align to the strategic plan and company goals, supporting all creative, product, and sales activities to maintain Collette’s growth trajectory.

Prior to joining Collette, Montano worked as VP Marketing for The Travel Corporation’s Insight Vacations and Luxury Gold USA. Before that, he was VP Marketing at CIE Tours USA.

“Our trusted advisors play such an integral role in Hurtigruten’s business. We want to express our gratitude with a promotion that benefits not only their clients but also our partners directly as well,” said Jeffrey Oar, President, Hurtigruten Americas. “During this period, advisors can even combine both promotions, saving their clients a lot of money while earning themselves an unforgettable expedition adventure and experiencing our product first-hand.”

All information can be found on Hurtigruten’s travel advisor portal, https://agentportal.hurtigruten.com/. The one-stop portal includes training modules, information on sustainability initiatives and downloadable brochures. Travel advisors who are not already registered can easily do so to gain immediate access.

Travel Agent Day takes place each year on the first Wednesday of May. This year it will be recognized on May 3.

OUR TRUSTED ADVISORS PLAY SUCH AN INTEGRAL ROLE IN HURTIGRUTEN’S BUSINESS

ANTARCTICA WITH HURTIGRUTEN EXPEDITIONS ON THE MS ROALD AMUNDSEN

Photo Credit: Dan Avila

JUST

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Santa Monica brings the sunshine to Toronto with industry events

TORONTO — Santa Monica Travel & Tourism brought sunshine to Toronto recentlywith two events and a chance for the trade to get updated on all that’s new and noteworthy in this favourite California destination.

Santa Monica and its partners - Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, Air Canada, Hotel Casa del Mar and Shutters on the Beach - hosted a wellness-themed event at Sweat + Tonic, featuring the sights, sounds, tastes and scents of the California sun spot. And then travel advisors gathered at Toronto’s Second Floor Events venue for networking and destination updates.

Santa Monica offers “laid-back beach town vibes with big city sophistication,” says Pulse Communications’ Sana Keller, Director of Public Relations, Santa Monica Travel & Tourism - Canada Office.

Travelweek caught up with several of the team members inbetween yesterday’s events, to get all the latest news…

Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows

Danielle Gambardella, Director of Leisure Sales, Fairmont Miramar Hotel and Bungalows, says the property is positioned as an “urban resort with boutique hotel ambiance.” She adds: “We’re all about the celebration traveller, from honeymoons and weddings, to MICE, to anniversary and milestone travel.” The luxury property celebrated its own milestone, its 100th anniversary, in 2021 with renovations including lobby spaces and the new Soko. For summer 2023, new activations include a Night Market every Thursday, and movies by the pool every Saturday.

Casa Del Mar & Shutters On The Beach

Casa del Mar and Shutters on the Beach are both privately-owned hotels in Santa Monica, says Melissa Perez, Director of East Coast Leisure Sales. She describes Shutters on the Beach as “cozy, intimate, with a Cape Cod vibe”, whereas Casa del Mar “is like a Mediterranean villa experience.” Both properties will bring back F&B service on the beach for summer 2023.

Regent Santa Monica Beach

A renowned name in hospitality is coming to Santa Monica. Currently undergoing renovations and a rebranding, the Regent Santa Monica Beach will be unveiled with a grand opening in late November / early December 2023, says Angel DeLara, Director of Sales and Business Development for the hotel. Already world-famous for its many luxury properties in Asia, with a handful of hotels in Europe, Regent Hotels & Resorts in partnership with IHG will make Regent Santa Monica Beach the only Regent-branded property in North America, says DeLara. The property is currently 347-keys, but will emerge later this year with fewer than 200 keys, with less of a focus on conferences and more on family getaways.

VISITOR STATS FOR SANTA MONICA TRAVEL & TOURISM

Michael Gurrieri, Chief Marketing Officer for Santa Monica Travel & Tourism,

says Santa Monica has more than 40 hotels and close to 500 dining venues in its 21.5 square kilometres. “It’s a very walkable city,” he adds. Santa Monica is just 13 kilometres from LAX, with plenty for families, and an increasingly important wellness market. It also boasts a 5.6 kilometre stretch of coastline.

In 2019, Santa Monica clocked more than 460,000 visits from the Canadian market. The number of Canadian visitors dropped during the pandemic, not surprisingly - just 53,000 in 2021 - but has been rebounding well with 127,000 visits in 2022. Pre-pandemic, 51% of Santa Monica’s visitors were from international markets. “And 10 - 12% of that was from Canada,” says Gurrieri. “We’re definitely seeing Canadians coming back.”

Air Canada’s flights to LAX operate out of no fewer than four Canadian gateways: Toronto, Calgary (starting May 1), Vancouver and Montreal.

Ensemble recognized for innovation by TTC Tour Brands

TORONTO — TTC Tour Brands has awarded Ensemble with its 2022 partner award for ‘Outstanding in Innovation.

The award, said Jenni Berg, National Accounts Director for TTC Tour

LIVING THE GOOD LIFE WITH SANTA MONICA TRAVEL & TOURISM

Brands, was given in recognition of Ensemble’s re-branding following its acquisition by Navigatr Group in 2022.

Describing Ensemble as a “long-lasting, strong partner,” Berg said the team is excited to be working with the organization “as they continue to evolve and innovate.”

Michael Johnson, President of

Ensemble, added: “It is truly gratifying to receive this recognition from one of Ensemble’s key partners. We have been working really hard over the past several months to both listen to what our partners need and want and to create programs that address their priorities so that we can all grow and increase bookings and revenues.”

Among the many new innovations that Ensemble has launched over the past months include new branding, a series of new annual events, new print and digital publications, new hotel and marketing programs, as well as a new fam program called ‘Further Your World.’ Ensemble has also focused on growing its team with several appointments across various disciplines including operations, partner and member solutions, technology and marketing.

Spain Specialist Program now live on Travelweek’s Learning Centre

TORONTO — The Spain Specialist Program is now live on Travelweek’s Learning Centre.

The comprehensive online training program aims to educate the trade on all things Spain, to help travel advisors promote and sell this incredibly popular destination.

Designed by Turespaña, the course is geared to travel professionals who want to broaden their knowledge about Spain and obtain the Spain Specialist Certificate. Agents who complete the course will be allowed to use of the ‘Spain Specialist’ logo for online communication and promotional materials, and will also be

ENSEMBLE HONOURED BY TTC TOUR BRANDS

considered for future FAM trips and invitations to activities organized by the Tourist Office of Spain.

Agents completing a basic or advanced course before July 1, 2023 will be entered into a draw for a $500 Visa card.

Visit Seattle lands in Toronto with news of airlift and new offerings

TORONTO — Visit Seattle touched down in Toronto recently to celebrate Air Canada’s seasonal service from Toronto and Montreal.

Hosted in partnership with Air Canada, the event welcomed

approximately 40 travel advisors to the W Toronto for a training presentation that showcased Seattle’s iconic sites and attractions, neighbourhoods, pre- and post-cruise ideas, new hotels and upcoming festivals.

Advisors also welcomed the news that starting May 1, Air Canada will be increasing its nonstop service from Toronto to Seattle to twice daily, until the end of September.

On May 15, the carrier will also be resuming nonstop service from

Montreal to Seattle, starting with 6x/ weekly then increasing to daily in the summer. Service in winter will decrease to 4x/weekly.

Both routes will be served by B737 Max8 until June, after which it will be operated by Airbus A220-300.

The event also included a prize draw for a trip to Seattle, including airfare with Air Canada. Marjorie Calvin of Aspire Travel took home the grand prize.

For more information about travel to Seattle go to www.visitseattle.org.

CAITLYN SHEARER, VISIT SEATTLE AND BRADLEY SUTHERLAND, AIR CANADA WITH MARJORIE CALVIN OF ASPIRE TRAVEL

People

Goway hires new VP Marketing as it eyes global expansion

Goway Travel has named Mitchell Fawcett as the company’s new VP Marketing. Fawcett will lead Goway’s marketing and brand transformation - the first since Goway’s founding in 1970 - as the travel company eyes global expansion.

Key to the brand transformation will be the launch of Goway’s new website, powered by a cutting-edge reservation system. The new site is set to launch later this year.

Fawcett will also grow the marketing team at Goway and offer a new editorial vision for the company’s wide-reaching media properties. In his new role, Fawcett will also serve as Editor-in-Chief for Globetrotting, Goway’s print magazine.

Says Bruce Hodge, Goway’s founder and President: “Mitchell is an experienced and thoughtful marketer and we’re thrilled to begin a total brand transformation with him. He is a proven leader with a vision to expand on our half century of success. He also has the track record to help us grow as a company, while reinforcing our position as the first choice for Globetrotters to realize a lifetime of travel.”

With Fawcett leading the marketing transformation at Goway, current Marketing VP Adam Hodge will transition to a new high-level role.

Iberostar Cuba Hotels & Resorts launching new campaign: ‘Welcome’

HAVANA

— Iberostar Cuba

Hotels & Resorts will debut its brand new campaign at FITCUBA, taking place May 1 - 5 in Havana.

Iberostar says the campaign’s simple yet heartfelt and effective message - ‘Welcome’ - seeks to convey not only the essence of the charisma of Cuba and its people, but also to encourage travellers to enjoy the island’s unique offering. Cuba is home to cities with 500+ years of history, and, of course, beautiful beaches.

“Although it is an everyday word, colloquial, gentle, and full of good vibes in all languages, in its simplicity is impregnated the essence of good service and kindness that visitors receive in each of the 18 Iberostar Cuba hotels throughout the island,” says the company.

Born in Mallorca, Iberostar has now had a presence in Cuba for 30 years, and the ‘Welcome’ campaign celebrates that milestone as well. Iberostar is also drawing attention to its Agenda 2030 initiative, which has not only managed to eliminate single-use plastics in all rooms, but also works closely with coastal health projects.

This year’s FITCUBA is the 41st edition of Cuba’s international tourism fair.

THE CAMPAIGN ENCOURAGES TRAVELLERS TO ENJOY CUBA'S UNIQUE OFFERING

IBEROSTAR CUBA HOTELS & RESORTS' WELCOME CAMPAIGN