Travelweek AUGUST 01 2024

CANADA’S TRAVEL TRADE NEWS www.travelweek.ca AUGUST 1, 2024

Travel insurance is still a must despite APPR

Industries pen open letter for YTZ

New developments in Cuba

PAGE 3

PAGE 9

PAGE 12

ARE APPR

ENOUGH?

F UL L-PAGE AD Unwind, explore and experience it all Discover Destination Inclusive® Off-site Experiences at Paradisus by Meliá hotels The Reserve and Family Concierge Superior Room Categories at Paradisus by Meliá, unlock a whole new holiday experience. Guests have exclusive access to carefully curated off-site adventures led by expert local guides, allowing them to fully immerse themselves into the culture and surroundings of their destination. At once an exceptional and grounding experience, this is just one of many ways that the luxurious resort exceeds expectations and creates an elevated stay that will want to be relived again and again.

Transat Tours Canada Inc., registered as a travel wholesaler in Quebec (reg. #754241) with offices at 300 Léo-Pariseau Street, Suite 200, Montreal (QC) H2X 4C2; in Ontario (reg. #50009486) with offices at 5915 Airport Road, Suite 910 Mississauga (ON) L4V 1T1; and in British Columbia (reg. #2454) with offices at 11900 Haney Place, Unit 151, Maple Ridge (BC) V2X 8R9.

TRAVELWEEK | August 1, 2024

TOP NEWS

With the amended APPR, is there still a need for travel insurance? regulations are still providing peace of mind for travellers, particularly in recent weeks during which the travel industry was impacted by both a WestJet mechanics’ strike and a global tech outage.

But if travellers are being compensated or accommodated as a result of APPR, why, then, is there still a need for travel insurance, which often includes flight delay/ cancellation coverage?

BY CINDY SOSROUTOMO TORONTO We can all agree that travel insurance is a must when travelling, especially nowadays with COVID-19 being a permanent fixture and flight delays and cancellations a regular occurrence. But with the 2022 broadening of the Airlines Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR), has travel insurance become a nonessential add-on?

Implemented on Sept. 8, 2022 in response to a backlog of thousands of air passenger complaints amid the restart of post-pandemic travel, the Canadian Transportation Agency’s Regulations Amending the Air Passenger Protection Regulations require airlines to provide passengers with either a refund or rebooking (at the passenger’s choice) when there is a flight cancellation or lengthy

delay due to a situation outside the airline’s control.

Before this date, the AAPR required refunds to be provided for flight disruptions only within the control of airlines. Now, if there’s a delay of three hours or more or a cancellation outside the airline’s control, and the airline cannot provide the passenger with a confirmed reservation leaving within 48 hours of the departure time on the original ticket, the airline must provide a refund or make alternative travel arrangements for the passenger, free of charge.

According to then-Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra, the COVID-19 pandemic revealed a gap in Canada’s air passenger protection network, hence the amended APPR. And while the worst of the pandemic is thankfully behind us, the broadened

APPR ONLY APPLY TO FLIGHTS THAT ARE CANCELLED OR DELAYED BY THE AIRLINE.

Speaking with Travelweek, Sheila Burns, Director of Health and Disability Policy at Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association (CLHIA), says that APPR only apply to flights that are cancelled or delayed by the airline, whether the matter is within their control or not. Trip cancellation insurance, on the other hand, can provide coverage for a wider variety of problems that may result in a trip being cancelled.

“These will vary by policy so it’s important to read the contract, but some examples include an unexpected medical emergency or death of the insured, a person they’re travelling with or an immediate family member, a legal obligation like jury duty, or cancellation of a business meeting,” says Burns.

“Other examples include being called to service in case of reservists, active military, police, essential medical and fire personnel, or an unforeseeable, involuntary termination from your permanent employment without cause.”

3

4

August 1, 2024 | TRAVELWEEK

TOP NEWS

Also noteworthy, adds Burns, is the fact that trip cancellation insurance can cover more than the cost of a flight.

“Many policies will reimburse, up to the covered dollar amount, prepaid portions of the trip that are nonrefundable or non-transferable to another date where these are cancelled due to a covered reason.

These can include, for example, prepaid, non-refundable expenses for accommodation, car rental, a cruise or excursions,” she says.

Dan Keon, VP, Marketing & Insights, Allianz Global Assistance, also touts the added perks of travel insurance when compared to the APPR. Noting how “it’s great to see that the Canadian Transportation Agency is strengthening the APPR,” Keon tells Travelweek that despite their protections, there continues to be value in obtaining travel insurance for a number of situations that aren’t covered by CTA’s regulations.

a variety of covered reasons within travel insurance that may include (but are not limited to) unexpected injury or illness of the primary traveller or travelling companion, employment changes, and travel advisories issued by the Canadian government; trip interruption coverage in the event that a traveller needs to come home earlier or later than planned; lost/ stolen baggage and baggage delay; and unexpected/unforeseen medical emergencies,” says Keon, who adds that the Government of Canada also recommends that Canadians buy travel insurance if they plan to travel outside Canada – even when crossing the border for just a day.

All this is well and good, but with the amended APPR garnering much press since their launch, has travel insurance been pushed out of the spotlight? Has there been a decline in travel insurance bookings in the two years since the amended APPR were implemented?

WE HAVEN’T HEARD ANY SUGGESTION THAT PEOPLE ARE PURCHASING LESS TRAVEL INSURANCE. “These include pre-paid travel arrangements outside of flight bookings; trip cancellations due to

“We haven’t heard any suggestion that people are purchasing less travel insurance,” says Burns. “In fact, the

experience of the pandemic appears to have made people more aware and appreciative of the value of travel insurance.”

But if clients are considering opting out of travel insurance, thinking that APPR are enough to cover the unexpected, Burns has this piece of advice for travel advisors: “The most important piece of advice for all insurance, including travel insurance, is to make sure that you know what you’re covered for, including dollar amounts, so you can be sure to purchase the right amount of protection. For example, you may assume that coverage associated with your credit card is enough, but it may not cover everything you expect, and will only cover those parts of the trip paid for using that credit card.”

Keon also concurs, adding: “When booking travel arrangements, Canadians rely on their trusted travel agent for the best advice. It’s important for agents to educate their clients on travel protection and clearly explain the different types of coverage available, along with what is not covered. Agents are encouraged to emphasize the peace of mind and financial protection travel insurance provides when unexpected events arise, so that their clients can relax and enjoy their vacation to the fullest.”

To learn more about how trip cancellation and trip interruption work, click here.

Got a story idea? Questions or comments?

Write to Cindy Sosroutomo at cindys@travelweek.ca TRAVELWEEK TEL: 416.365.1500 TOLL-FREE: 1.855.392.8820 WEB: www.travelweek.ca For circulation inquiries please email circulation@travelweek.ca

SUBSCRIPTION RATES (PER YEAR)

CONTENTS COPYRIGHTED

Canada: $85 Canadian + $4.25 GST per year US & International: $100 US per year

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada.

SOCIAL MEDIA

SAVE MORE. EXPLORE MORE. DISCOVER JAMAICA.

F UL L-PAGE A D

Jamaica is home to a vibrant island culture and some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches and coastlines. With a range off all inclusive Jamaica resorts and adults only properties to choose from, there’s something for all ages and travel styles.

* Visit sunwingagents.ca for more details.

6

August 1, 2024 | TRAVELWEEK

TOP NEWS

Two familiar ships returning to Great Lakes itineraries with Waggoner and Victory Cruise Lines The size and maneuverability of these ships are perfectly suited for coastal cruising in this region, says Waggoner. Cruising connoisseurs can celebrate the christening celebrations of Victory I in Toronto on April 27 and Victory II at Chicago’s Navy Pier on May 12.

Victory I

BY KATHRYN FOLLIOTT NEW ALBANY, IN It’s a victory lap for cruise industry veteran John Waggoner, who’s bringing two ships back to Great Lakes itineraries with ports including Toronto and Montreal.

Waggoner, who founded American Queen Voyages (AQV), bought Victory I and Victory II from auction in early 2024 after the ships were put up for sale in the wake of AQV’s bankruptcy proceedings. AQV had acquired Victory Cruise Lines in 2019.

AQV meanwhile was acquired by Hornblower Group and “run into the ground” by Hornblower, as agents told Travelweek in February 2024, when Hornblower announced AQV’s bankruptcy and its own acquisition.

AQV had been in operation since 2011, with a focus on river sailings in the U.S. (and later in Costa Rica).

AQV had carved out a strong niche, with its beautiful and historic fleet of paddlewheelers.

In early 2019, when AQV acquired Victory Cruise Lines, the M/V Victory I and M/V Victory II ships were renamed to Ocean Voyager and Ocean Navigator in 2021.

AQV sold Ocean Navigator and Ocean Voyager in June 2023. And then everything came to a halt in February 2024 when Hornblower announced bankruptcy proceedings for AQV and the immediate end of its cruises.

RESERVATIONS NOW OPEN Victory Cruise Lines is focused on allinclusive, small ship cruising.

Reservations for the 2025 inaugural season are now open.

Comprised of the 190-guest Victory I and Victory II, these ships were purpose-built in Jacksonville, FL, to cruise on all five Great Lakes, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and the FrenchCanadian Maritimes.

“As long-time enthusiasts of maritime adventures, my wife Claudette and I are thrilled for the team to open reservations of the inaugural season and we prepare to sail these magnificent waters,” says Waggoner, Victory Cruise Lines Chairman and founder. “Our cruise experience will offer many special touches, including being the only cruise line to dock at Chicago’s Navy Pier, and most of all, our ships will be a home away from home exploring all five Great Lakes.”

Victory Cruise Lines will mark the inaugural season with a special New England & Canada 2025 Reunion Cruise Portland to Toronto departing April 16, 2025.

Hosted by the Waggoners, the 10-night cruise through the St. Lawrence Seaway and Canadian Maritimes will reunite friends from past voyages featuring notable guest entertainers, Phil Westbrook, and Greg and Lindy Pendzick.

Waggoner notes that Victory Cruise Lines is the only coastal cruising product on the Great Lakes that docks at Navy Pier in Chicago.

TRAVELWEEK | August 1, 2024

Victory Cruise Lines will offer 36 voyages on the Great Lakes in a single season, and the most coastal cruises in a single season that hit all 5 Great Lakes in one cruise, 33 voyages.

Victory Cruise Lines is also the only coastal cruising product that includes a 1-night pre-cruise hotel at a premium property plus ground transfers to the ships for all voyages.

FIRST LOOK AT ITINERARIES Here’s a look at the Great Lakes itineraries feature the following voyages for the 2025 season: • ULTIMATE GREAT LAKES (all 5 Great Lakes): Sailing from Chicago to Toronto, this nine- or 10-night cruise plus pre-cruise hotel visits: Chicago, Illinois; Lake Michigan; Escanaba, Michigan; Mackinac Island, Michigan; Sault Ste. Marie (Soo Locks), Michigan; Lake Superior and Lake Huron; Detroit, Michigan; Lake Erie; Cleveland, Ohio; Niagara Falls (Port Colborne), Ontario; Lake Ontario; and Toronto, Ontario. A total of 25 voyages run from April through September 2025.

• ULTIMATE GREAT LAKES (all 5 Great Lakes): Sailing from Milwaukee to Toronto, this itinerary version includes either a nine- or 10-night cruise plus pre-cruise hotel in Chicago. Six voyages are available from May through August 2025, visiting: Chicago, Illinois; Transfer to Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Lake Michigan; Escanaba, Michigan; Mackinac Island, Michigan; Sault Ste. Marie (Soo Locks), Michigan; Lake Superior and Lake Huron; Detroit, Michigan; Lake Erie; Cleveland, Ohio; Niagara Falls (Port Colborne), Ontario; Lake Ontario; and Toronto, Ontario.

TOP NEWS

• ULTIMATE GREAT LAKES & ST. LAWRENCE SEAWAY (all 5 Great Lakes): Sailing from Chicago to Montreal, this 11- or 12-night cruise plus pre-cruise hotel sails to: Chicago, Illinois; Lake Michigan; Escanaba, Michigan; Mackinac Island, Michigan; Sault Ste Marie (Soo Locks), Michigan; Lake Superior and Lake Huron; Detroit, Michigan; Lake Erie; Cleveland, Ohio; Niagara Falls (Port Colborne), Ontario; Toronto, Ontario; Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence Seaway; and Montreal, Quebec.

Three voyages are available in September and October 2025.

• GREAT LAKES & THUNDER BAY (2 Great Lakes + Mackinac Island Overnight): Sailing roundtrip from Chicago, this 14- or 15-night cruise plus pre-cruise hotel will have two departures in May and June 2025. Destinations include: Chicago, Illinois; Lake Michigan, Mackinac Island, Michigan (Overnight); Marquette, Michigan; Houghton, Michigan; Duluth, Michigan; Thunder Bay, Ontario; Lake Superior; Sault Saint Marie (Soo Locks), Michigan; Lake Michigan; Green Bay, Wisconsin (Overnight); Muskegon, Michigan; and Chicago, Illinois.

Onboard, guests will enjoy the Victory Cruise Lines’ own LakeLorian lecture program including engaging, destination-oriented historians and naturalists who share their vast knowledge and expertise of the history, ecology, and culture of each port of call.

Victory I and Victory II feature a home-away-from-home atmosphere with gathering spots including the Compass Lounge, home to a grand piano and a favourite locale for old fashioned sing-alongs.

The English-style Tavern is another favourite onboard venue to share stories and laughter with friends and fellow travellers.

The Coastal Dining Room serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily from the chef’s menu of regionally inspired dishes. The Grill serves buffet breakfast, lunch, and seated dinner. Guests will also find a variety of healthy dining alternatives that meet their dining needs.

Each Victory Cruise Lines voyage includes one-night pre-cruise hotel stay with complimentary ground transfers between the hotel and vessel; all oceanview accommodations, some with veranda; an included shore excursion in every port from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland to the Henry Ford Museum in Detroit; acclaimed cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner served in multiple venues plus culinary events throughout each cruise; gourmet selections including freshly prepared lobster and regionallyinspired dishes; unlimited beverages including an extensive wine list, choice spirits, local craft beers and specialty coffees; open bars and lounges throughout the vessel; unlimited Wi-Fi; live, daily onboard entertainment and more.

Victory Cruise Lines fares are allinclusive and based on double occupancy from US$5,799 per guest.

Fares include Inaugural Season Savings of $1,000 per guest.

Travellers are asked to contact their travel advisor or call 1-855-556-7193.

Visit www.VictoryCruiseLines.com.

7

August 1, 2024 | TRAVELWEEK

8

WORLD NEWS

Southwest Airlines Carnival Paradise at the Port of Tampa

CRUISE LINES

Photo Credit: (top) Credit Virgin Voyages; (bottom) Tyson Mayr.

Carnival Corporation has ordered three new ships from Fincantieri for Carnival Cruise Line, set for delivery in the summers of 2029, 2031 and 2033, respectively. With over 3,000 guest staterooms, the new ships will be the largest in the Carnival Corporation global fleet, carrying almost 8,000 guests at full capacity. Once delivered in 2033, Carnival Corporation will have a total of 16 LNG-powered ships – including eight Carnival Cruise Line ships – making up almost 30% of Carnival Corporation’s global capacity and delivering immediate greenhouse gas emission reductions.

Ahead of its 2024-25 Antarctic season, Aurora Expeditions has announced a new maximum passenger capacity for its voyages to the polar regions. Effective immediately, the company will now travel with no more than 130 passengers across its fleet of small ships visiting Antarctica and the Arctic, including the Greg Mortimer, Sylvia Earle and the new Douglas Mawson, sailing in December 2025.

The 2024-25 season runs from October to early April 2025. Season highlights include new departures to East Antarctica and the Ross Sea from Hobart, Australia and Dunedin, New Zealand.

Virgin Voyages is opening its gangways to ‘kids’ ages 18-26, allowing them to sail for free with their parents, guardians and caregivers. “If you’re old enough to vote, you’re old enough to sail” was the thinking behind the new offer. While on board, multigen families can enjoy activities like bracelet making, dodgeball and dancing in the pool during Scarlet Night. These activities can be paired with family-friendly ‘Shore Things,’ like swimming with sharks in Bimini and cooking in the Mediterranean. The ‘kids’ sail free offer is valid for sailings now through Dec. 15, 2024.

Aurora Expeditions’ Greg Mortimer in Antarctica

AIRLINES Southwest Airlines is planning to drop the open-boarding system it’s used for more than 50 years and will start assigning passengers to seats.

Southwest discovered that the vast majority of travellers now want to know where they are sitting before they get to the airport. The move comes on the heels of Southwest’s Q2 results, which showed that profit fell 46% from a year earlier, to $367 million. Airlines are struggling with higher costs and reduced pricing power, especially on flights within the United States, as the industry adds flights faster than the growth in travel demand.

TRAVELWEEK | August 1, 2024

NEWS

WestJet announces new daily service between Kelowna and Seattle CALGARY WestJet’s new daily service connecting Kelowna and Seattle is set to take off in January 2025.

The route will unlock more seamless connectivity to a network of U.S. destinations through Seattle and beyond, through the airline’s longstanding partnership with Delta Air Lines.

“As we continue to strengthen our service across Western Canada, we are proud to connect Kelowna with new daily WestJet service to Seattle as part of our expanded winter schedule,” said WestJet EVP and CCO, John Weatherill. “This route will provide guests in the Okanagan and across the Pacific Northwest regions with new convenient and affordable options to easily connect between both popular regions for business and leisure year-round.”

Flights from Kelowna to Seattle will depart at 9 a.m. local time, aligning with business travel schedules and allowing for connections to 24 codeshare destinations throughout the western U.S., including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland, San Diego, Phoenix and many others.

The returning 11:30 a.m. departure from Seattle will arrive in Kelowna at 12:37 p.m.

Last week, WestJet debuted its 2024/2025 domestic winter schedule, outlining growth across the country, including Kelowna.

This winter WestJet will serve a total of 12 destinations from Kelowna with up to 20 daily departures out of YLW during peak winter travel.

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport

Industry leaders pen open letter in support of YTZ TORONTO Top industry leaders have banded together to help ensure the future of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ).

More than 45 leaders from industries including travel and tourism, aviation, business, healthcare, manufacturing, the arts, retail and education have signed an open letter to advocate YTZ’s sustained operation and development.

As per the letter, 82% of Torontonians believe Billy Bishop Airport is a good use of land, and 87% believe it makes sense for the city to have an airport downtown. As the ninth busiest airport in Canada and the fifth busiest Canada-U.S. air crossing and future home of U.S. preclearance, YTZ offers 20 direct and 80+ indirect connections, with $2.1 billion in economic output growing to $5.3 billion.

The entirety of the open letter reads: “We have come together through this open letter to express our collective support for the long-term future of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.

Recognizing the critical role that Billy Bishop Airport plays in facilitating travel, supporting economic growth, supporting life-saving medical access

and connecting communities, we believe it is essential to advocate for its sustained operation and development.

“Billy Bishop Airport is a vital asset for businesses and travelers. Its strategic location in downtown Toronto not only provides convenient access to the city’s financial, business, visitor and cultural districts, but also serves as a gateway for regional and international travel.

The airport’s unique proximity to key economic centers and its efficient operations contribute significantly to the competitiveness and productivity of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, the businesses that operate here and their employees.

“Representing a diverse range of industries, sectors, and communities, the importance of this reliable and efficient transportation hub cannot be understated. The time is now for all levels of government to collaborate and agree to a long-term future for Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.”

Among the 45 industry leaders to sign the letter are Andrew Weir, President & CEO of Destination Toronto; Michael Deluce, CEO of Porter Airlines; Andrew Siegwart, President & CEO of Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO); and Lisa Raitt, Former Minister of Transport.

9

F UL L-PAGE A D

TRAVELWEEK | August 1, 2024

NEWS

Exoticca secures $67 million in funding amid strong sales BARCELONA Exoticca has secured $67 million in funding to accelerate its growth and innovation in the travel industry.

The company is on a mission to level up tech capability, enabling travel agencies to offer real-time pricing and availability.

Air Canada Vacations’ incentive trip

ACV partners with Azamara and Expedia Cruise Ship Center for incentive trip MONTREAL Air Canada has hosted a landmark incentive trip in partnership with Azamara, becoming the first tour operator to organize such an event.

Visiting Nice, Monte Carlo, Marseille, St. Tropez and Sete, the exclusive trip brought together 14 key managers from the Friesen Travel Group, which owns and operates 13 franchise units under the Expedia Cruises banner. Led by franchise owner Shawn Friesen, the weeklong trip focused on professional and personal development, with Friesen also sharing important business updates and his vision for growth through 2027.

Coordinated by Air Canada Vacations’ Elish Tait, Manager-National Accounts, and Bruce Parkinson, Area Sales Manager, the event welcomed attendees to participate in three presentations by Air Canada Vacations, which covered essential topics such as business building and marketing opportunities, product diversity and cruise offerings.

“We are incredibly proud to have pioneered this initiative,” said Tait. “This trip not only allowed us to strengthen our professional relationships but also provided a platform for our partners to gain new insights and strategies that will help drive their business forward.”

Other highlights of the trip include cocktail receptions and specialty dinners, full-day training sessions, themed events like a ‘White Night,’ and guided tours and wine tastings that showcased the culinary offerings of the regions visited.

WE ARE INCREDIBLY PROUD TO HAVE PIONEERED THIS INITIATIVE.

“While the rest of the travel industry has become digitized, the multiday tour space has remained stagnant, with customers stuck with inconsistent, time-consuming booking experiences. Exoticca’s mission is to bring multi-day tour packages into the digital age, making dream trips accessible and affordable to everyone. The new funding will accelerate our vision and allow us to substantially increase our investment in technology, product and growth,” says Exoticca CEO Pere Vallès.

Exoticca’s bespoke technology connects the different services (i.e. flights, hotels, meals, transfers, transportation and activities) required to book multi-day tours, connecting local companies at destination with travel agencies and other online players.

Vallès says that by digitizing all parts of the booking process, Exoticca has cut the process of booking complex long-haul trips down to minutes and can guarantee customers the best prices.

Vallès adds that this latest injection of funding will allow Exoticca to develop its platform, leveraging AI to improve product offering, customer experience and boost its partners’ profitability.

11

12

August 1, 2024 | TRAVELWEEK

NEWS

The company is focused on building a leading global brand and opening in new markets, accelerating the adoption of the platform by both traditional travel agencies, as well as other online travel partners.

Exoticca has doubled its sales yearon-year since 2015, selling trips to 70+ destinations worldwide to travellers in eight markets – Canada, the U.S., UK, France, Germany, Spain, Mexico and Colombia.

PEOPLE

Barbara Biffi

Silversea promotes Biffi to Senior Vice President, Global Sales Silversea has named Barbara Biffi as its new SVP, Global Sales, effective immediately.

Set to relocate to Miami, Biffi takes responsibility for Silversea’s global sales strategy across all channels from Massimo Brancaleoni who has departed to pursue other opportunities. Biffi first joined Silversea in 2007, left in 2009 to work at various luxury brands and returned in 2017. Said Biffi: “Prioritizing our partnerships with our valued travel advisors, I will work to enhance the seamlessness of our trade business operations.

I am committed to consolidating Silversea’s position as the ultra-luxury and expedition travel brand of choice for our travel advisor community.”

Roberto Diaz, Gaviota BDM Canada; Frank Oltuski, Marketing VP, Gaviota Group; Lessner Gomez, Director, Cuba Tourist Board; Carlos Latuff, President, Gaviota Group; and Karen Puebla, Executive Assistant, Cuba Tourist Board (photo courtesy Chris Kinasz)

Gaviota Group delivers news of its latest developments from Cuba

BY CHRIS KINASZ TORONTO Canada is Cuba’s most important market, so it’s key for this industry to stay up to date on the latest news and developments.

With that in mind, Gaviota Group, Cuba’s largest hotel group, held a press conference on July 25, 2024 at the Cuba Tourist Board’s office on Bay Street in Toronto.

Gaviota Group has been hard at work doing many renovations and upgrades on its properties throughout Cuba, primarily in Havana, Varadero, Cayo Santa Maria and Holguin.

The Cuban group is working with foreign companies to improve product and service at its hotels across the island, with negotiations in progress to bring even more investors into the mix. Gaviota Group is working with 16 foreign hotel chains.

This means that 80% of rooms in Gaviota hotels are being managed by foreign hotel companies.

Gaviota’s main goal is to develop new products at its properties, specifically for its brand ‘Playa.’

It will be implementing new modules for families with kids, with special rooms geared for them, plus premium levels.

First up will be Playa Cayo Santa Maria. This is something that was needed, as Cuba has been experiencing an increase in requests for accommodations for large families.

To attract the younger market, Gaviota is working together with Blue Diamond Hotels by offering specialty music festivals and opening a new hotel brand called ‘Resonance,’ which will have music and entertainment for the younger generation in one section, and relaxation and wellness in the other.

The group is open for investments and is interested in making the tourist plazas near the all-inclusive hotels an attraction for travellers visiting the island. Specifically, each plaza will have its own theme and attraction to welcome tourists visiting these venues.

New hotel openings will be primarily in Havana and Holguin. By the end of this year, the Kempinskimanaged Metropolis will open in Havana. With 219 rooms, it will be the second Kempinski property in the city, following Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana.

TRAVELWEEK | August 1, 2024

The Hotel Corona in Havana, administered by Turkish hotel chain ATG, is expected to open the beginning of next year. It will be a five-star property with 147 rooms.

The 594-room Iberostar will open in the tallest building in Havana on Nov. 20, four days after the city’s 505th anniversary.

At Aduana del Puerto, for the start of next year, a new hotel called Real Aduana is coming in the new cruise port, at the site where Cuban customs used to be in the old port.

And in Holguin, a yet-to-benamed hotel at Ramon de Antillas is expected to open by the end of next year.

To improve customer service and offerings, Gaviota is planning to open training schools all over Cuba to train its employees with the best teachers on the island.

CUBA TOURIST BOARD UPDATE As of Aug. 1, it will be possible to pay for everything in Cuba with Canadian currency, or with debit and credit cards from Canadian banks.

Year to date, Cuba has received 600,000 visitors from Canada, and one million worldwide visitors overall.

The goal for the year is one million Canadian visitors.

For more, visit Gaviota-Grupo.com and GoCuba.ca.

13

A world of wonder awaits under the Jamaican sun From pristine white-sand beaches and lush jungles to a colourful, vibrant culture with a renowned music scene, Jamaica offers Sunwing Vacations travellers all-encompassing, unforgettable vacation experiences in the tropics.

On the Northen coast sits Montego Bay, the birthplace of Bob Marley and home of the Hip Strip, a hot spot for lively nightlife. The city boasts live reggae music, authentic Jamaican cuisine like jerk chicken, and the Montego Bay Cultural Centre, where travellers will learn about the island’s history. A tour of Nine Mile, the village where Bob Marley was born, raised and laid to rest, showcases his legacy along with his impact on Jamaican culture.

A little over 100 kilometres away is the port town of Ocho Rios, featuring some of Jamaica’s most picturesque landscapes. The hidden waterfall of Blue Hole can be discovered while hiking along scenic jungle trails, while a chairlift ride to the summit of Mystic Mountain offers some of the best views of the island’s natural beauty.

No vacation to Jamaica is complete without a visit to the iconic Dunn’s River Falls, where visitors can climb up the cascades that form a natural staircase before cooling off in the pool at the base of the falls.

Vacationers in search of a relaxing getaway on soft sands and calm waters should look no further than Negril. Located on the island’s west coast, Negril’s famous beaches like Seven Mile Beach, Booby Cay and Bloody Bay Beach provide tranquility and an opportunity to disconnect from the excitement of the island. Travellers can set sail on a Cool Runnings Cruise along the Jamaican coast to admire the shoreline, take in the views of some of the island’s most beautiful beaches from the deck of a luxury catamaran and more when they book an excursion with NexusTours.

With a wide range of all inclusive resorts to choose from offering luxury amenities, onsite activities and day and night entertainment in Jamaica’s top destinations, travellers can easily find the family-friendly or adults only oasis of their dreams with Sunwing Vacations.

Photo Credit: Sunwing

Before the end of this year, the second section at Muthu Havana will also open. With 515 rooms, the new section will be called Muthu Tower.

NEWS

Experience the perfect getaway for the entire family in Kissimmee, the Big, Bold Heart of Florida. Explore larger-than-life attractions, outdoor adventures, and unique places to stay.

20%

Save up to when booked

by July 30th for travel through to December 19, 2024.* CLC Regal Oaks Resort Vacation Townhomes Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort Disney’s All-Star Music Resort Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort Encantada Resort Vacation Townhomes Grand Hotel Kissimmee at Celebration Magic Village Views Maingate Lakeside Resort

F UL L-PAGE A D BOOK NOW https://access.travelbrandsagent.com/login *Savings and availability are subject to change without prior notification. Offers are valid on new bookings made between July 1-31, 2024 for travel by December 19, 2024 with the exception of the 3 Disney properties where travel period ends October 3, 2024. Hotel taxes are included in the accommodation only pricing. For all offers, availability and pricing are subject to change at any time without prior notice. Blackout dates and restrictions apply. Surcharges and Resort fees may apply and are to be paid locally upon check-in. Conditions and minimum length of stays may apply, offers and discounts may vary depending on room categories booked.

SUN DESTINATIONS

SPOTLIGHT15

TRAVELWEEK | August 1, 2024

TOP NEWS

Whether seeking a family vacation or a getaway with friends, Sunscape Resorts makes for the perfect choice

Photo Credit: Sunscape Resorts

16SPOTLIGHT TOP NEWS

August 1, 2024 | TRAVELWEEK

Sunscape Resorts offers plenty of sun and fun for all ages For those searching for sun and fun, look no further than Sunscape Coco Punta Cana and Sunscape Dominicus La Romana.

Located on Bavaro Beach at Cabeza de Toro, just 20 minutes from the Punta Cana International Airport, Sunscape Coco Punta Cana celebrated its grand opening in November 2023 with 1,059 guestrooms including junior and family suites.

Families can take advantage of both family-friendly areas and adults-only sections, including separate private lounges, exclusive pool and beach areas and private restaurants.

the Explorer’s Club for kids ages 3-12, a soccer court and tennis courts, and ‘Unlimited-Fun’ inclusions with no wristbands required. Extensive renovations have been completed to common areas like the lobby, theatre, spa, fitness centre and the pier. All guestrooms have also been updated, while the main buffet has added capacity.

For more information go to sunscaperesorts.com.

Main pool, Sunscape Coco Punta Cana

New at the resort is a gastronomic experience with 12 dining options, including Amazonian cuisine, a pizzeria and food truck, all with refreshed design and décor, as well as a new un-wine cellar and beach bar.

Other new developments include splash pool and kids splash pad, an international buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner plus an exclusive beach area for all ages at the Sun Club, and the Core Zone for teens and the Explorer’s Club for kids ages 3-12. Extensive renovations have also been made to the lobby, à la carte restaurants, the fitness centre, spa, casino, nightclub, conference rooms, the main pool and bar, and tennis courts.

Situated along the golden beaches of Playa Dominicus, Bayahibe, Sunscape Dominicus La Romana celebrated its opening in December 2023 with 854 rooms, Junior Suites and Family Villas. Featuring both family-friendly and adults-only sections, the resort was formally announced in 2023 as a multi-collaboration between Hyatt and Globalia, which converted two Be Live resorts in the Dominican Republic to Sunscape Resorts & Spas.

New developments at Sunscape Dominicus include a new culinary experience at 21 dining options with no reservations required, a splash park with slides and children’s area, a reimagined Core Zone for teens and

Sunscape Dominicus La Romana

ENDLESS FUN IN THE SUN AWAITS AT SUNSCAPE® COCO PUNTA CANA! Nestled on Bavaro Beach and just 20 minutes from Punta Cana International Airport, this newly renovated all-inclusive resort offers Unlimited-Fun® inclusions for the whole family. Kids will love the new splash pad and waterslides, adults can relax in peaceful pools and everyone can enjoy beautifully crafted drinks and delectable cuisine from 12 dining options. With endless entertainment, supervised activities for kids and exclusive perks for Sun Club level suites, it’s the perfect getaway for families, couples and groups.

DISCOVER

F UL L-PAGE A D

Sunscape® Coco Punta Cana: www.sunscaperesorts.com/cocopuntacana

BOOK DIRECT • EARN MORE

Advisors, your loyalty deserves to be recognized. Earn all the latest advisor incentives directly from Inclusive Collection.

© 2024 Hyatt Corporation

07/24

18

August 1, 2024 | TRAVELWEEK

NEWS

Four down, more to go: Virtuoso to continue Cruise Ship Tours program VANCOUVER Virtuoso’s ‘Cruise Ship Tours’ were a resounding success, so much so that the network has set its sights on continuing the program throughout 2024 and beyond.

Designed exclusively for Virtuoso’s Canadian travel advisors, Cruise Ship Tours provide a first-hand look at preferred partners cruise lines, which is then passed along to clients as prospective passengers. Four events have already taken place in Vancouver in partnership with Viking, Silversea, Seabourn and Cunard, with future events slated around Canada’s various ports, including Halifax, Toronto, Montreal and Quebec City.

“Experiencing a luxury cruise line firsthand provides a deeper understanding than one can get from a brochure or online,” said Virtuoso General Manager, Canada Úna O’Leary. “By offering Virtuoso advisors exclusive access to our preferred cruise lines, they can learn, explore and gather invaluable information that can then be shared with their clients. We sincerely appreciate working with Viking, Silversea, Seabourn and Cunard to create these private, memorable experiences that will ensure our advisors are matching their clients with the best possible cruise experience for them.”

This past May, 20 Virtuoso advisors met with Kim Tobias, Viking’s sales director for Western Canada, aboard the Viking Orion ship. “It was a pleasure hosting the first Virtuoso dedicated ship inspection post-Covid in Vancouver,” said Tobias.

Virtuoso’s Silversea Cruise Ship Tour

“It was a great opportunity to showcase the Orion while she begins her Alaska season sailing the inside passage from Vancouver to Seaward.

We were happy to share the modern Scandinavian design of the small ship that can host 930 guests onboard.”

In June, another 23 Virtuoso advisors, agency owners and managers were joined by Virtuoso Chairman and CEO Matthew D. Upchurch and Senior Vice President, Global Member & Partner Sales Cory Hagopian aboard the Silversea Silver Nova. The group met with Jose Santiago, Silversea’s senior manager of national accounts, who said: “Since the Silver Nova is a new ship, most of the advisors were seeing it for the first time. We consider these types of site inspections very valuable to us, as well as to the advisor. Through these tours they can learn about the brand, the on-board experience, the suites each vessel has to offer and more.”

This month, advisors stepped foot aboard the Cunard Queen Elizabeth and Seabourn Odyssey ships.

Kallie Biggs, Manager, National and Strategic Accounts, Cunard, said, “We recognize that one of the most powerful tools for advisors in selling Cunard is seeing the ships and understanding our iconic brand and the experience guests will have when

they sail with us. The intention is to continue offering as many of these opportunities as possible.”

Seabourn’s Business Development Manager, Western Canada, Fiona Schonewille, added, “Connecting with advisors is crucial to our business, and having them on board emphasizes the importance of investing in their education about the products they offer to their clients. The hands-on experience these advisors gained on the Seabourn Odyssey is invaluable.

It allows them to fully understand the exceptional quality and luxury that our cruises provide, making it a perfect addition to the luxury portfolio they already booked.”

The Ship Tours have provided an advantage to the network’s advisors, too. Jessyca Georgison of Renshaw Travel said, “As part of the Virtuoso network, these opportunities to view the ships firsthand is an invaluable experience for us as advisors. To be able to share with clients that we have seen the ship in person, our own photos, small details about the cabins and amenities, as well as our experience with dining, really helps set us apart. It also ensures our clients know we are able to confidently recommend a cruise line in a way we wouldn’t be able to otherwise.”

TRAVELWEEK | August 1, 2024

PEOPLE

NEWS

Nico Buchholz

BermudAir names Buchholz as President & Deputy CEO BermudAir has named Nico Buchholz as President and Deputy CEO of the company, effective August 2024.

Buchholz started his 30+ year aviation career at Airbus in Toulouse in product marketing and sales. He later moved to the engine manufacturer Rolls-Royce Deutschland. This was followed by running the entire fleet management for all airlines in the Lufthansa Group. He shaped the development of Lufthansa Group’s fleets for 15 years, and followed that stint with various leadership positions and global assignments within a portfolio of airlines, lessors and OEMs.

WestJet, Accelya sign multi-year FLX Platform agreement for NDC

He added that Accelya’s NDC offering, a core enabler of airline-retail agency connectivity, has servicing at its core and links airlines with over 70,000 travel agents.

ATLANTA Accelya and WestJet have signed a new multi-year FLX Platform agreement, to facilitate WestJet’s NDC offering.

WestJet’s VP, Pricing, Revenue & Distribution, Jorge Rozo, said: “WestJet’s partnership with Accelya will allow us to deliver on our distribution vision, aligning WestJet’s value proposition across our wide range of channels. WestJet is focused on delivering an exceptional guest experience grounded on servicing standards and flexibility and the Accelya FLX Platform will be instrumental in achieving this goal. We are excited to partner with Accelya and leverage their expertise in driving real NDC adoption that translates into benefits for all of our guests and partners.”

The tech provider says that the Accelya FLX Platform enabled more than half of all global NDC transactions in 2023 according to data from T2RL, and generating more than 350,000 offers per second.

The FLX Platform strengthens WestJet’s ability to drive personalized offers to improve the passengers experience through all channels, says Accelya CEO Sam Gilliland.

Virtuoso will continue to offer Ship Tours exclusively for the network’s Canadian advisors in Eastern Canada over the course of the next few months. For more information on Virtuoso’s global network of luxury travel’s best, please visit www.virtuoso.com.

“Accelya’s FLX Platform is generating more than 350K offers each second to power the retailing of the world’s leading airlines. We are delighted to add WestJet as a partner enabling them to take control of their distribution and retailing future. Accelya are focused on delivering an innovative and scalable modern retailing experience for airlines moving on the Offer and Order transformation journey,” said Gilliland.

ACCELYA’S FLX PLATFORM IS GENERATING MORE THAN 350K OFFERS EACH SECOND.

19

August 1, 2024 | TRAVELWEEK

20

Luxury vacations at Majestic Elegance Punta Cana with Transat For the ultimate, five-star, all-inclusive luxury experience, clients need look no further than the Majestic Elegance Punta Cana, part of Transat’s extensive sun portfolio.

Located on the D.R.’s famed Bavaro Beach, Majestic Elegance Punta Cana offers exclusive services and a perfect combination of comfort and pristine beach fun.

Surrounded by lush flora, this elegant and sophisticated resort offers a 24-hour high-quality, personalized experience well suited for families, couples and groups.

Dining options include seven restaurants, from the Italian flavours of Il Bottaccio, to 9 Doors and its Japanese influence and Teppanyaki tables, seafood at See & Sea, and steaks at El Asadito. Other options include The Limited Gourmand, and Mcjestic for fast-food offerings. Flavors is the international buffet venue. Bars are plentiful and there’s nightly entertainment too.

Clients can upgrade to the chic, adults-only Elegance Club, which offers a surprise gift in each room, private pool areas, butler service, aromatherapy and a bottle of champagne in each suite upon arrival.

Everyone relaxes in their own way on vacation.

For some, that means a spa treatment, and at the Majestic Spa, located in a separate building between Majestic Elegance Punta Cana and Majestic Mirage, guests can pamper themselves in the massage area, the humid area and the beauty parlour.

Golf anyone? The incredible Punta Blanca Golf Course is just 200 metres from the resort.

Meanwhile the beautiful pool and private beach areas are equipped with sun-loungers and Bali beds.

Elegance Club guests have access to their own adults-only pool.

For families, Majestic Elegance Punta Cana provides family guests with a vast array of services and amenities such as unlimited snacks and drinks on a 24/7 basis, guided activities, games areas, Splash Kids area and more. There’s a kids’ club, and a games area for teens with pool tables, table football and other diversions. There are also tennis courts, a pickleball court and more.

And for wedding clients, Majestic Elegance Punta Cana offers couples the wedding of their dreams.

The resort’s professional team of Wedding Planners is ready to make all wedding wishes come true, at beautiful venues for ceremonies, receptions and banquets.

For more information see Transat.com.

F UL L-PAGE A D Majestic celebrations of love Majestic Resorts in Costa Mujeres is where romantic escapes for wedding couples, newlyweds and sweethearts become reality. With breathtaking beachfront venues, adults-only sections, 24/7 high-touch service, complimentary wedding and honeymoon packages, and more, it’s the Majestic way to wed and celebrate love in style.

Transat Tours Canada Inc., registered as a travel wholesaler in Quebec (reg. #754241) with offices at 300 Léo-Pariseau Street, Suite 200, Montreal (QC) H2X 4C2; in Ontario (reg. #50009486) with offices at 5915 Airport Road, Suite 910 Mississauga (ON) L4V 1T1; and in British Columbia (reg. #2454) with offices at 11900 Haney Place, Unit 151, Maple Ridge (BC) V2X 8R9.

22

August 1, 2024 | TRAVELWEEK

NEWS

Tauck Sapphire

Tauck unveils new technology to boost travel advisors’ river cruise group sales WILTON, CT Tauck has rolled out new technology to help travel advisors enhance their group sales.

Building on its existing partnership with Approach Guides, the new technology allows travel advisors to add custom sales messages, group pricing and other trip details. As part of a wide array of ‘Content Experiences,’ pre-built marketing pages that advisors can easily cobrand and share with clients and prospective clients via social media, email and other methods.

Tauck’s existing Content Experiences cover a range of topics, from the recent relaunch of Tauck’s trips to Cuba, to its new Smaller Groups tours and offerings in Japan.

In this latest effort with Approach Guides, Tauck has developed a feature-enhanced Content Experience dedicated exclusively to promoting group sales of its river cruises, with an even higher degree of customization available to advisors, allowing them to build in details

specific to a particular sailing including itinerary information, departure dates, pricing and more.

The service is available immediately for advisors selling groups on Tauck’s river cruises and will be rolled out to all group departures over the coming year. Getting started is easy and only requires advisors to enter their email address to create a custom marketing page. Advisors should contact their Tauck Groups Sales executive for their exclusive invitation.

“We’re seeing unprecedented demand for groups travel, especially for our river cruises,” said Steve Spivak, Tauck Vice President, Global Sales and Reservations.

“Our new technology is poised to revolutionize how our valued travel advisor partners sell this hot category, allowing them to be far more efficient, deliver an elevated class of service to their clients, and earn more.”

Tauck is the first river cruise line to partner with Approach Guides, and the first Approach Guides client employing Content Experiences with enhanced levels of advisor customization.

Triple savings for Canadians on select Nov. 2024 AmaWaterways sailings CALABASAS AmaWaterways has special savings just for Canadians this November.

The river cruise line is offering Canadian passengers savings of Cdn$3,600 per stateroom, a complimentary stateroom upgrade and prepaid gratuities on new bookings of select November 2024 European river cruise departures.

The booking deadline is Sept. 30.

The offer can be combined with AmaWaterways’ AirPlus rates, Combination Cruise Savings, Loyalty Benefits and Future Cruise Benefit Program.

Some 21 departures across 13 itineraries are included in the deal.

Five popular Christmas Market sailings are eligible for the offer.

AmaWaterways cites one example, the Nov. 7 ‘Colors of Provence ‘sailing, with savings of more than 30%.

Pricing for a twin balcony stateroom normally starts at $5,112 per person, double, but lowers to $3,312 when the $1,800 is deducted. There’s also the complimentary stateroom upgrade and included gratuities.

F UL L-PAGE A D

24

August 1, 2024 | TRAVELWEEK

NEWS

Quark Expeditions

AmaWaterways’ AirPlus Promotion offers travellers from all Canadian gateways Economy airfare to Europe at $1,099, Premium Economy airfare at $2,999 or Business Class airfare at $4,999.

Plus, the cruise line’s Combination Cruise Savings allows guests to enjoy a 10% discount on all subsequent cruises after the first one when two or more cruises are booked to run consecutively. AmaWaterways’ Future Cruise Benefit Program allows clients to purchase a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) while on board a cruise or within 30 days of disembarking, saving 5% on a future sailing. And for repeat AmaWaterways’ guests, the Loyalty Benefits Program has perks that include $100 cruise price discounts, complimentary airport transfers and stateroom upgrades, depending on the Loyalty Level.

Additional details can be found at www.amawaterways.ca/savings.

Win an Arctic fam with Quark Expeditions’ summer sweepstakes TORONTO Quark Expeditions is awarding 10 lucky travel advisors with an Arctic fam of a lifetime as part of its new ‘Ultimate Summer in The Arctic Sweepstakes.’

The exclusive, points-based contest gives travel advisors the chance to win one of 10 spots on the 13-day ‘Ultimate Arctic Voyage from Svalbard to Jan Mayen to Iceland’ voyage, departing in July 2025 and hosted by one of Quark Expeditions’ Business Development Managers. The itinerary begins in the wildlife-rich Spitsbergen, then travels to Jan Mayen and ends under the midnight sun in Reykjavik.

To enter the contest, travel advisors can register at the sign-up page and collect points between July 24 and Sept. 30, 2024.

They can earn points in a variety of ways, including: making an Arctic booking (3 points); attending or watching one of Quark’s five Arctic educational webinars (1 point); sharing Arctic content on social media (1 point); or subscribing to the Q Travel Advisor newsletter (1 point).

Polar bear in Svalbard

The more points advisors collect, the greater chances of winning.

Winners will be selected at random and will be notified within two weeks of their incentive period ending by their local BDM. The Ultimate Summer in the Arctic Sweepstakes coincides with other initiatives by Quark Expeditions, including the launch of the Partner Portal and, most recently, the introduction of the comprehensive Brand Folder. This user-friendly tool offers extensive sales toolkits for promotions and season launches, providing travel advisors with assets like images, videos, flyers, social media assets, and pre-recorded webinars. The Brand Folder also features advanced search functionality, download options, image resizing, and white-labelled content, ensuring users can efficiently find the materials they need to promote Quark’s polar voyages.

For more information go to www. quarkexpeditions.com.

UP TO UP TO

85 CASH BONUS 3 % ADDITIONAL COMMISSION

$

PER B O O K I N G

Redesigned Car Wrap Program

+ Dedicated Online Training

Let your guests find their island rhythm and melt into the blues of the Caribbean. Get to know Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, Curaçao, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, or Antigua. They might find a favorite or love them all the same. Each destination is waiting to be discovered. Book now through August 4, 2024, and your guests will enjoy up to $1000 in air credit on 7+ night stays and a $175 resort credit on 5-night stays at select resorts.

Join our force of Travel Advisors today and grow your business, knowing the world’s most powerful sales team is with you every step of the way.

F UL L-PAGE A D

TAPORTAL.SANDALS.COM | 1.800.545.8283 OR CALL YOUR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER *Visit www.sandals.com/disclaimers/rhythmandblues for important terms and conditions. Sandals® is a registered trademark.

Unique Vacations, Inc. is an affiliate of Unique Travel Corp., the worldwide representative of Sandals Resorts. 8723/0724

26

August 1, 2024 | TRAVELWEEK

NEWS

Portugal’s Douro River Valley with AmaWaterways

Niche Travel Group has space on its chartered Oct. 2024 Douro sailing TORONTO Niche Travel Group is inviting other travel agencies to book into its fall 2024 AmaWaterways sailing featuring Canadian musicians Matt Andersen and Cory Tetford.

This isn’t the first time the Dartmouth, NS-based agency has opened up a full-charter sailing to other retailers. As owner Faith Sproule tells Travelweek: “It’s a winwin situation: their clients enjoy special savings and the chance to experience these fantastic cruises, the advisors earn a nice commission, and we fill our cabins.”

Commissions can range from $500 to $1,000 per cabin, she adds.

Sailing AmaWaterways’ ‘Enticing Douro’ itinerary onboard AmaWaterways’ AmaDouro in Portugal Oct. 26 - Nov. 2, the cruise will feature three exclusive shipboard concerts with Matt Andersen and Cory Tetford, both Atlantic Canadians.

Anderson (from New Brunswick) and Tetford (from Newfoundland) now reside in Nova Scotia and tour

extensively across North America and Europe. Andersen recently headlined the Halifax Jazz Festival.

Sproule says a handful of cabins are still available.

“Travel advisors from various agencies in the US and Canada have booked their clients on this sailing, and we truly appreciate the teamwork,” she says. “All payments go directly to AmaWaterways, ensuring that Niche Travel Group is not involved in payments and invoicing, and all client communication remains with the original advisor.”

She adds: “Collaboration among owners and advisors across different companies can be a new roadmap for success. By teaming up, we can share customized group travel experiences, creating amazing travel experiences for clients. This collaboration leads to unique opportunities, better savings, and higher commissions for everyone.

Plus, it helps improve the overall quality of service in the industry, making it a win-win for all involved.”

Click here for more information.

Lisbon, Portugal

TAP Air Portugal sale offers deals from YUL, YYZ TORONTO TAP Air Portugal’s summer seat sale continues, with discounted fares to Europe.

The sale kicked off last month month with lead-in one-way fares from $233.

The savings continue through Sept.

15, with deals available from both Montreal and Toronto.

“Summer is peak season for travel to Europe so it’s amazing to see such great deals in July and August,” said Carlos Antunes, Director for the Americas, TAP Air Portugal.

“There’s never been a better time to plan a summer getaway to Portugal and beyond.”

For more details click here.

TRAVELWEEK | August 1, 2024

NEWS

Los Cabos

Siren Communications named Agency of Record for Los Cabos TORONTO The Los Cabos Tourism Board has appointed Siren Communications as its official Agency of Record.

The news comes ahead of the launch of the destination’s fall campaign in Canada, which will include a visiting-media program, live on-site broadcasts from a national television show, support for a Canadian LGBTQ+ charity, and high profile influencer content. Managed by Siren Communications, the campaign will extend beyond the beach to highlight the destination’s wellness, gastronomy, sustainability and adventure offerings.

“For our campaign, we will be seeking out local content creators, the very best Canadian journalists,

homegrown trade publications and national TV shows. We will be supporting a respected charity in the LGBTQ+ space, will work in both official languages and include activations from east to west. We want to show all Canadians how important they are to us,” said Rodrigo Esponda, Managing Director of the Los Cabos Tourism Board.

Adding that the destination holds strong appeal for Canadians, Esponda added: “Research underscores safety and security as paramount concerns for Canadian travellers when choosing a holiday destination.

Located on its secluded peninsula,

Los Cabos offers exceptional safety, distinguishing it from other destinations in the country.

Additionally, with direct flights available from major Canadian cities throughout the winter season, accessibility is seamless.”

Located in the state of Baja California Sur, Los Cabos is Mexicos’s fastest growing destination, welcoming more than 3.8 million tourists in 2023, nearly 10% more than in 2022. It boasts 350 sunny days a year as well as 13 restaurants featured in the inaugural Michelin Guide to Mexico.

For more information about Los Cabos go to visitloscabos.travel.

THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO PLAN A SUMMER GETAWAY.

27

UP TO UP TO

85 CASH BONUS 3 % ADDITIONAL COMMISSION

$

PER B O O K I N G

Redesigned Car Wrap Program

+ Dedicated Online Training

Let your guests find their island rhythm and melt into the blues of the Caribbean. Get to know Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, Curaçao, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, or Antigua. They might find a favorite or love them all the same. Each destination is waiting to be discovered. Book now through August 4, 2024, and your guests will enjoy up to $1000 in air credit on 7+ night stays and a $175 resort credit on 5-night stays at select resorts.

Join our force of Travel Advisors today and grow your business, knowing the world’s most powerful sales team is with you every step of the way.

F UL L-PAGE A D

TAPORTAL.SANDALS.COM | 1.800.545.8283 OR CALL YOUR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER *Visit www.sandals.com/disclaimers/rhythmandblues for important terms and conditions. Sandals® is a registered trademark.

Unique Vacations, Inc. is an affiliate of Unique Travel Corp., the worldwide representative of Sandals Resorts. 8723/0724

TRAVELWEEK | August 1, 2024

NEWS

On behalf of St. Vincent and The Grenadines, Shelley John, Director of Sales, Canada accepts generous donations from The Bob Family Travel Team at TravelOnly, lead by Pat Probert and Mary de Almeida

Bob Family Travel Team at TravelOnly steps up with aid in wake of Beryl TORONTO The Bob Family Travel Team at TravelOnly, lead by Pat Probert and Mary de Almeida, elevated their annual summer trade event at Mimico Cruising Club with a show of support for those impacted

by Hurricane Beryl.

Accepting donations on behalf of St. Vincent and The Grenadines was Director of Sales, Canada, Shelley John.

Turnout from the Bob Family Travel Team included Probert and de Almeida, Rob Pittelli, Wendy Sedore and Sandy and Terry Declare as well as 100+ TravelOnly advisors, plus many supplier partners.

Hurricane Beryl, the earliest and strongest hurricane ever recorded in the Atlantic, devastated Grenada’s two sister islands Carriacou and Petite Martinique, as well as five islands in St. Vincent and the Grenadines: Union Island, Canouan, Palm Island, Mayreau and Petit St. Vincent.

“All of these islands. as of today, still do not have power and they do not know when they may get power or clean drinking water,” said Probert.

“We are one big family in this travel business and when one of us hurts, everyone helps.

In fact, they have nothing, as all their belongings were taken by Beryl. We are grateful beyond measure to Pat and Mary, for organizing this event – and to each TravelOnly advisor and supplier who brought items so desperately needed,” said John.

We sent out a message asking everyone to bring something to aid these countries – and we were overwhelmed by the response.”

Many in attendance asked about making financial contributions.

Filling two vehicles with everything from tarps and blankets to baby diapers and wipes, to toothpaste and many more items, the travel industry in Toronto showed their love for the Caribbean.

“Although some people have left their homes for the bigger island of St. Vincent, still others have chosen to remain in their homes and vow to rebuild. But they have no roofs.

One Caribbean Canada has created a page on its website of approved and registered charities or approved government disaster relief funds to aid those countries most impacted by Beryl.

One Caribbean Canada founder Nancy Drolet notes that Global Medic is recognized as a preferred charity where Canadians can either volunteer in person or make financial contributions.

WE ARE ONE BIG FAMILY AND WHEN ONE OF US HURTS, EVERYONE HELPS.

29

CURRENT COURSES www.travelweeklearning.com

UP TO UP TO

Welcome to Seacademy

85 3 % ADDITIONAL COMMISSION

$

PER B O O K I N G CASH BONUS eLearning program

Level up and begin your learning journey with Seacademy: Selling Virgin Voyages.

Redesigned Car Wrap Program

Online Training Like it or knot, you’ll complete tiers of lessons to learn + Dedicated

everything about selling our sailings, while earning valuable

earns you Let your guests find their island rhythm and melt intorewards. the bluesEvery of the tier Caribbean.

Get atoknot, knowand your level of knot-

inessorspeaks toThey yourmight mastery Virgin Voyages.

Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, Curaçao, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Antigua. find of a favorite or love

them all the same. Each destination is waiting to be discovered. Book now through August 4, 2024, and your guests will enjoy up to $1000 in air credit on 7+ night stays and a $175 resort credit on 5-night stays at select resorts.

LEARN MORE

EVERY SECOND WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH VISIT TRAVELWEEK.AI

Join our force of Travel Advisors today and grow your business, knowing the world’s most powerful sales team is with you every step of the way.

Level up with GFOB University eLearning program In today’s ever-changing travel landscape, education isn’t just a tool—it’s the cornerstone of exceptional service and continuous business growth. At Globus family of brands, we recognize that for Advisors to excel, staying informed is essential.

LEARN MORE

FEELING OVERWHELMED • Instantly generate engaging social F UL L-PAGE A D Travel Pro Program media content VISIT FLORIDA WITH THE NEVER ENDING • Simplify your marketing efforts program TASKS OF MARKETING, • eLearning Streamline administrative tasks • Boost your sales funnel SOCIAL MEDIA, AND • Learn Elevate brandto presence all your you need know about selling Florida, from our • And so much more!

ADMINISTRATIVE WORK? wonderful beaches to everything in between!

Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize becoming certified Florida Travel Introducing 'Unleashing the Potential for AI theBy way you workawith AI. Register now and Pro, you’ll be able to provide clients with informed recommendations, create Travel Agents' – a comprehensive monthly take the first step towards transforming tailored travel experiences, and ultimately boost your sales webinar series designed to navigate you your agency's future! through the world tools T AofP AI OR T A Lthat . S Ayou N Dcan A L S . C O M by | showcasing 1 . 8 0 0 . 5 4 the 5 . 8best 2 8 3of what Florida has to offer. start using in your agency today.

Agents can win TravelBrands points O R C A L L Y O U R B U S I N E S S D E V E L O P M E N T M A N A G Eloyalty R Dive into the transformative power of AI and more prizes! Plus early registrants get technology and discover how to: freeand A.I.conditions.

Manual for Travel Agents. *Visit www.sandals.com/disclaimers/rhythmandblues for importantaterms Sandals is a registered trademark.

LEARN MORE

®

Unique Vacations, Inc. is an affiliate of Unique Travel Corp., the worldwide representative of Sandals Resorts. 8723/0724

TRAVELWEEK | August 1, 2024

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex launches new travel agent portal CAPE CANAVERAL, FL Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has launched a dedicated travel agent portal aimed at providing travel agents with a seamless booking experience and lucrative commission opportunities, with e-tickets straight to the turnstile.

Travel advisors can now access the portal to book a wide range of products, from admission tickets to exclusive experiences like Chat With An Astronaut, KSC Explore Tour, Go Beyond NASA’s Gates, and the Astronaut Training Experience.

A generous 10% commission is offered, along with different reward tiers for performance at the commission level, said Frank Da

NEWS

Costa, Global Sales Manager at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

“We are delighted to offer our community of travel agents the ability to book directly with Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex,” said Da Costa. “This portal streamlines the booking process and ensures that travel agents have access to our full range of offerings.”

To start booking and earning commissions, travel agents can log on to www.kennedyspacecenterta. com and register their agency.

Or check out the same site for more information about the portal as well as the experiences offered at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.

Air Transat launches Premium Cabin promotion MONTREAL Air Transat has launched new deals on its Club Class flights to Europe and South destinations.

Roundtrip flights start at $1,087 from Toronto and $1,057 from Montreal.

The promotion applies to individual flight bookings made by Aug. 7, 2024, for travel between Aug. 1 and Oct. 31, 2024.

Club Class comes with several perks, including: a dedicated cabin with more room; among the widest seats in its class; up to six gourmet meal options; priority services for an accelerated and simplified process; and two checked bags included (23 kg each).

31

CANADA’S TRAVEL TRADE NEWS

Canada’s Travel Trade News

FULL-PAGE AD

Canada’s Travel Trade News

Canada’s Travel Trade News

February 15, 2024

FEBRUARY 29, 2024

Arctic and Antarctic EXPEDITIONS

TRAVELWEEK, TRAVELBRANDS TEAM UP FOR A.I. INITIATIVES Page 6 NEW A.I. WEBINAR SERIES GOES ALL YEAR Page 7 SERVICE FEES: HOW MUCH TO CHARGE? Page 3 LYNX AIR AND ACV CEASE OPERATIONS Page 9, 10 AIR CANADA'S MOTORCOACH SERVICE Page 13

THE A.I.

EVERY SECONDADVANTAGE WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH

TAKING CHARGE

VISIT TRAVELWEEK.AI Canada’s Travel Trade News

Canada’s Travel Trade News

Canada’s Travel Trade News

March 28, 2024

March 14, 2024

ONVIGO OPENS AS NEW HOST AGENCY Page 6

TRANSCEND CRUISES' B2B OPTION FOR RIVER CRUISE GROUPS Page 3

ARIZONA RECONNECTS WITH THE TRADE Page 6

April 11, 2024

RETAIL GROUPS TAKE ON SKILLS GAP, LABOUR SHORTAGE Page 3 TRAVELBRANDS' NEW INCENTIVE FOR AGENTS Page 6

AVIATION EXPERT ANALYZES LYNX SHUTDOWN Page 3

AVALON ALEGRIA SETS SAIL Page 22

ACV'S NEW AUSTRALIA PACKAGES Page 9

NEW IN TOWN

FULL-PAGE A D

HAVE GROUP, WILL

RIVER CRUISE

MORE LEARNING, MORE

EARNING

FU LL- PAGE AD

Canada’s Travel Trade News

Canada’s Travel Trade News

FEELING OVERWHELMED • Instantly generate engaging social F UL L-PAGE AD media content WITH THE NEVER ENDING • Simplify your marketing THE BESTefforts RESORTS TASKS OF MARKETING, IN THEtasks • Streamline administrative BEST LOCATIONS • Boost your sales funnel SOCIAL MEDIA, AND • Elevate your brand presence • And so much more!

ADMINISTRATIVE WORK? November 30, 2023

SHORT-TERM RENTAL SCRUTINY Page 3 JOINT VENTURE FOR AIR TRANSAT, PORTER Page 4 BRAND USA'S MEGAFAM Page 12

HOME Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize

the way you work with AI. Register now and TURF take the first step towards transforming

Introducing 'Unleashing the Potential for AI Travel Agents' – a comprehensive monthly webinar series designed to navigate you through the world of AI tools that you can start using in your agency today.

Dive into the transformative power of AI technology and discover how to:

Read more in www.travelweek.ca

your agency's future!

Agents can win TravelBrands loyalty points and more prizes! Plus early registrants get a free A.I. Manual for Travel Agents.