What you need to know about travel insurance in the event of airline strikes and labour disputes
BY CINDY SOSROUTOMO
TORONTO Recent headlines about airline strikes and labour disputes have put renewed focus on the importance of travel insurance.
With Air Canada issuing a lockout notice earlier this week after its flights attendants voted overwhelmingly in favour of a strike mandate, travel insurance experts are stressing the importance of purchasing travel insurance and reviewing policies, particularly since policies may have evolved since the pandemic.
Following the onset of COVID-19 five years ago, the travel insurance market in Canada has significantly expanded, with a 15% increase in policies purchased since 2020, according to HelloSafe’s latest travel insurance barometer. Yet only 46% of Canadian travellers currently have insurance for international trips, compared to 88% in Sweden and 78% in the United Kingdom. Average premiums in Canada stand at $210, ranking below the United States but above countries such as the U.K. and France.
Steven Harris, a licenced insurance broker and expert with LowestRates.ca, notes the gaps travellers face: “Travellers often rely on the travel protection offered by their credit cards, but there are often significant gaps and limitations in coverage that can present real challenges in
the event of a flight cancellation, medical emergency or other travel disruptions. This is especially true for those with pre-existing health conditions or complex travel plans over multiple destinations.”
Harris emphasizes the critical nature of travel disruption coverage in strike scenarios: “A strike could easily derail your plans, leading to substantial expenses for rescheduled flights, extra hotel nights or missed connections. Thankfully, most travel insurance policies are affordable, especially when you consider the potential costs of disruptions.
TIMING IS KEY
Timing is everything, particularly when it comes to travel insurance amid airline strike talks and labour disputes. Blue Cross tells Travelweek that cancellation or interruption coverage may apply only if the insurance and trip were purchased before the strike became public knowledge. “The event – or the risk of it occurring – is considered publicly known from the moment it is announced in the media. Therefore, Trip Cancellation or Interruption coverage will not apply if a new travel
insurance contract is purchased, or if a trip is paid for (fully or partially) on or after the date of the media announcement,” says the Blue Cross team, adding that its Cancel for Any Reason policy allows travellers to cancel their trip for reasons other than those covered by Trip Cancellation and Interruption and be eligible for a partial refund.
Dan Keon, Vice President of Marketing and Insights at Allianz Global Assistance Canada, echoes these points, telling Travelweek that travel insurance can provide coverage for travellers affected by an airline’s dispute or strike through benefits such as Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption and Travel Delay, when this type of event is listed as a covered reason under these benefits. He cautions travellers to purchase policies before strike risks become publicly known, using the example of Aug. 1, 2025, for Air Canada.
“For certain Allianz Global Assistance Canada travel insurance policies purchased through one of our travel agency partners on or prior to the date of a known event – Aug. 1, 2025, in this instance when news of the strike vote became public knowledge
A STRIKE COULD EASILY DERAIL YOUR PLANS, LEADING TO SUBSTANTIAL EXPENSES
– travellers may be eligible for reimbursement for prepaid and nonrefundable covered travel expenses, such as hotel costs, that are not covered by the airline or other travel suppliers. Additionally, if travellers make alternate arrangements to reach their destination, they may be covered for additional transportation costs and non-refundable prepaid accommodation expenses due to delayed arrival,” says Keon.
“If a policy is purchased after the date on which the strike became a known event – Aug. 1, 2025, in this instance – benefits associated with the strike as a covered reason may not be covered,” he adds.
COVERAGE VARIES
Jennifer Waver, AVP and Head of Travel Distribution at Manulife, tells Travelweek that most travel insurance plans do not cover labour disputes or airline strikes unless a traveller has Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage, and even then reimbursement may not cover the full trip cost. “At Manulife, we go further. Our Premium Protection Plan is specifically designed to help protect travellers from any event that is unforeseen at the time the policy was purchased, including labour dispute and airline strikes. This plan includes both trip cancellation and trip interruption benefits, offering clients peace of mind and financial protection.”
Waver adds that with the Premium Protection Plan, if a labour dispute or strike causes a trip to be cancelled or interrupted, travellers may be eligible for reimbursement of their prepaid, unused portion of their insured travel arrangements that are nonrefundable. “Beyond that, our plan also includes coverage for additional unplanned expenses such as hotels, meals, essential phone calls, internet usage, roaming and texting fees, and taxis - helping travellers manage the inconvenience of sudden changes,” she says.
Kathy Starko, President & CEO at TuGo, tells Travelweek that most insurance providers offer Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption insurance as part of their comprehensive travel insurance plans. These policies typically cover non-refundable airfare, hotel bookings, pre-paid excursions or tours, and meals and accommodation during unexpected delays. Those that offer CFAR coverage provide greater flexibility, allowing travellers to cancel for reasons not typically covered under standard policies – including fear of travel due to a strike.
Starko says TuGo’s All-Inclusive Holiday Package is an ideal option for travellers during these times of uncertainty: “It includes Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption in addition to Emergency Medical Insurance, offering coverage for unexpected labour disputes, as long as the policy was purchased before the risk became known. For those
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wanting coverage for maximum flexibility, optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage is also available for added protection.”
TRIP INTERRUPTION VS. TRIP CANCELLATION
All insurance providers will agree that reviewing an insurance policy is essential prior to travel. This would include understanding the difference between Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption, both of which may be relevant in the case of an airline strike.
According to TuGo’s Starko, Trip Cancellation coverage applies before departure: “If you need to cancel your trip due to a covered reason such as a strike disrupting your flight, this coverage can reimburse you for non-refundable costs.”
Trip Interruption coverage, on the other hand, applies after a client’s trip has started, or as soon as they leave their driveway to start the trip. “This coverage is an economical way to provide coverage if your trip is cut short, delayed or disrupted. This can cover costs like rebooking a flight home, extra accommodation or missed portions of your trip,” adds Starko.
When it comes to an airline strike, if it’s announced before a client leaves on their trip and it impacts their flight, Trip Cancellation would apply. If the strike occurs while they’re travelling and impacts their flight, Trip Interruption would come into play.
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Once you complete the four Essential Modules, you can expand your knowledge by exploring the distinctive Specialization Modules. By becoming a certified Florida Travel PRO, you’ll be able to provide clients with informed recommendations, create tailored travel experiences, and ultimately boost your sales by showcasing the best of what Florida has to offer.
“We’re focused
on removing the pain points”: Q&A with OpenNDC
BY KATHRYN FOLLIOTT
TORONTO When it first launched earlier this summer, OpenNDC was billed as the first allin-one travel commerce platform bridging airlines, sellers and tech providers with seamless NDC connectivity.
In the company’s words, OpenNDC replaces fragmented legacy systems, delivering real-time fares, dynamic offers, and direct airline content all through a single API, backed by global payment settlements, fraud protection, and 24/7 support.
When OpenNDC’s founder and CEO, Thava Tharmalingam told us OpenNDC is geared to TMCs, corporate travellers, CUGs, resellers and tech providers, we had just one question: Is OpenNDC also useful for travel advisors who sell mostly leisure?
“OpenNDC is absolutely accessible and valuable for leisure-focused travel advisors. While we do work closely with TMCs, CUGs, and tech providers, we also offer a wide range of products that directly support leisure travel: flights, hotels, flight + hotel packages, car rentals, airport transfers, tours, activities and even insurance,” says a company spokesperson.
“Advisors who specialize in leisure can definitely benefit from using OpenNDC — whether they’re working independently or as part of a host agency or consortium. They can sign up for a free trial and explore the
platform even if they are part of a host agency or larger consortia.”
Travelweek’s interview with Tharmalingam follows:
FOR ANYONE WHO MIGHT NOT KNOW, TELL US ABOUT OPENNDC.
“Built for airlines and direct travel suppliers to distribute directly to TMCs, corporate travellers, closed user groups (CUGs), resellers, and technology providers, OpenNDC eliminates barriers and unlocks new opportunities to scale faster, connect smarter, and operate seamlessly without replacing their existing tools.
“While some groups have proprietary NDC solutions, our platform integrates with both consortium systems and airline NDC APIs – acting as a universal bridge. Through a single login on OpenNDC’s unified agent desktop, buyers can access content from 800+ airlines and over 3 million properties worldwide — all available through a single, ready-toconsume API.
WHAT ARE OPENNDC’S SELLINGPOINTS?
“Here are 10 key features that make it helpful for agents:
• Real-Time Aggregation: Search and book flights and hotels in milliseconds — with live pricing and availability
• Centralized Dashboard: Manage
your bookings, inventory, and pricing strategies from one intuitive interface
• Intelligent Content Mapping: Our platform standardizes and enriches data for cleaner comparisons and faster decisions
• Complete Global Inventory: Access 800+ airlines (including NDC and LCC) and 3 million accommodations through one unified platform
• Real-Time Booking Engine: Search, compare, and confirm bookings in milliseconds – with dynamic pricing and live availability
• Built-in KYC & Compliance: Automated Know Your Customer (KYC) checks ensure secure onboarding and regulatory compliance, so you can focus on growing your business
• Multi-Currency Support: Transact
Thava Tharmalingam, Founder & CEO, OpenNDC
confidently in any currency — with localized pricing and tax handling built-in
• Direct Supplier Connections: Eliminate unnecessary middle layers, lower distribution costs, and boost your margins with direct API links to airlines and hotel
• Customizable API & Dashboard: Flexible integration options and an intuitive dashboard let you tailor the platform to your workflow
• Scalable & Reliable Architecture: Enterprise-level infrastructure designed for speed, uptime, and data security – even at high volumes
• Analytics & Insights: Get full visibility into bookings, customer behaviour, and revenue performance with built-in analytics
WHAT IMPACT HAS NDC HAD ON TRAVEL ADVISORS?
“NDC has brought both opportunities and challenges for travel advisors.
“On the positive side, it’s opened up richer content, more personalized offers, and direct access to airline inventory — which means advisors can provide better value and transparency to their clients.
“But the rollout hasn’t been without friction. Many advisors have faced technical hurdles, inconsistent access
across carriers and a lack of unified platforms to manage it all.
“Instead of simplifying workflows, NDC has sometimes added complexity — especially for those juggling multiple systems or booking tools.
“That’s exactly where OpenNDC comes in. We’re focused on removing the pain points and making NDC truly work for advisors — by giving them one powerful, streamlined platform to access content and book with ease.”
IS OPENNDC A CANADIAN COMPANY?
“Yes, OpenNDC is a Torontobased Canadian company with a global mission to modernize travel distribution. Founded by myself, Thava Tharmalingam, CEO, Clarity Travel Technology Solutions, OpenNDC is backed by a team with deep expertise in airline distribution, GDS, and travel retail systems.
“Many of our team members are familiar faces within the industry — bringing decades of handson experience working with both airlines and agencies. Canada was a natural first launch market, given its forward-thinking travel community and appetite for innovation. OpenNDC was built to meet realworld challenges — helping advisors
and sellers connect more efficiently with airline content through scalable, future-ready technology.”
HOW DO AGENTS SIGN UP TO USE OPENNDC?
“Advisors can use the free Sign-Up Process on the website to gain access to:
• Free trial: To get into the live environment and use the search booking tool.
• No upfront fees: Zero transaction fee when using our content. And, only $2 per ticket when you use your own content after becoming an OpenNDC’s client.
• Onboarding: Demonstrations can be scheduled and training provided
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE?
“At its core, OpenNDC is about making things easier for airlines and direct travel suppliers to distribute directly to TMCs, corporate travellers, closed user groups (CUGs), resellers, and technology providers by giving the freedom to focus on what they do best: selling and servicing, not struggling with fragmented systems.
“It’s the first truly end-to-end solution designed to simplify access to airline content through NDC, while creating real value for everyone involved — airlines, sellers, and tech partners alike.
“OpenNDC is transforming how the travel industry connects, transacts, and grows. We’ve built a platform that makes NDC access simple, scalable, and genuinely profitable — laying the groundwork for a smarter, more connected ecosystem where everyone can thrive.
More details can be found at OpenNDC.com.
DESTINATIONS
Dubai welcomed 9.88 million international overnight visitors from January to June 2025, marking a 6% increase over the same period in 2024. Growth was driven by public-private partnerships, global campaigns, and new hotel openings. Western Europe led source markets, followed by CIS, South Asia and the GCC. Hotel occupancy averaged 80.6%, with a 7% rise in revenue per available room. Dubai also gained global recognition, hosted major business events and expanded its MICHELIN-starred dining scene, reinforcing its position as a top destination for leisure, business and culinary travel.
Japan is expected to surpass 40 million international visitors in 2025, driven by global events like Expo 2025 Osaka, favourable exchange rates and growing demand for immersive travel. Over 28.5 million tourists arrived in the first half of the year, with June alone recording 3.3 million arrivals. China and South Korea led inbound markets, with strong growth from Canada and the US. Japan is attracting solo youth travellers, families and luxury clients, while demand for halal-friendly services is rising. Spending and stay lengths are up, making 2025 a recordbreaking year for Japanese tourism.
Disneyland Resort marked its 70th anniversary on July 17 with a special cast member celebration featuring live entertainment, photo ops and a flag-raising ceremony. Since opening in 1955, the resort has transformed from a single theme park into a multi-faceted destination with two parks, three hotels and the Downtown Disney District. Over 70 years, it has brought Disney, Pixar, Star Wars and Marvel stories to life through immersive attractions. Future expansions include new experiences inspired by Avengers, Avatar and Coco. A new ad campaign highlights real guest memories spanning generations.
CRUISE LINES
Carnival Vista became the first ship to call at Celebration Key last month, Carnival Cruise Line’s new exclusive destination in Grand Bahama. Nearly 5,000 guests explored the vibrant port, which features five distinct areas, including family-friendly lagoons, adults-only retreats, the world’s tallest sandcastle, and the largest swim-up bar in the world. The destination includes more than 30 dining and drink options, live Bahamian entertainment, sports courts and over a mile of beach.
Celebration Key is expected to bring over two million visitors annually to Grand Bahama, with future capacity to reach four million.
Palm Jumeirah Island, Dubai
Disneyland cast members
Christine Duffy, Shaquille O’Neal and Josh Weinstein open Carnival Cruise Line’s Celebration Key
Air Transat’s 2025-26 winter program includes new service to Rio de Janeiro
MONTREAL Air Transat’s winter 2025-2026 schedule includes a brand new destination for the airline: Rio de Janeiro.
In total Air Transat will operate a total of 14 new routes from its Canadian gateways, including several other new destinations plus the extension of some transatlantic services.
The new nonstop service to Rio de Janeiro from both Toronto and Montreal has been planned in coordination with Brazilian and Canadian authorities and remains subject to the required regulatory approvals.
The Rio flights will be operated with the Airbus A330 aircraft; twice weekly from Toronto (on Wednesdays and Saturdays) and once weekly from Montreal (on Thursdays), where Air Transat will be the only carrier offering a nonstop service.
From Montreal, travellers will enjoy nonstop access to Rio de Janeiro, Guadalajara, Valencia, Bordeaux and Madrid.
From Toronto, they will be able to fly to Georgetown (Guyana), Medellín, and Istanbul in partnership with Turkish Airlines, in addition to Rio de Janeiro.
This is the latest new destination in South America for Air Transat, following the introduction of Lima in 2023.
Air Transat’s winter program to the South also continues to diversify, with departures not only from major hubs, but also from new Canadian cities
such as Windsor, Fredericton and Charlottetown, he added.
• Toronto (YYZ) – Rio de Janeiro (GIG): 2 flights/week, starting Feb. 4, 2026
• Toronto (YYZ) – Istanbul (IST): 2 flights/week, starting Dec. 6, 2025
• Toronto (YYZ) – Georgetown (GEO): 2 flights/week, starting Dec. 16, 2025
• Toronto (YYZ) – Medellín (MDE) via Cartagena (CTG): 2 flights/week, starting Nov. 1, 2025
• Montreal (YUL) – Rio de Janeiro (GIG): 1 flight/week, starting Feb. 5, 2026
• Montreal (YUL) – Guadalajara (GDL): 2 flights/week, starting Dec. 13, 2025
• Montreal (YUL) – Bordeaux (BOD): 1 flight/week, starting Feb. 21, 2026
• Montreal (YUL) – Madrid (MAD): 2 flights/week, starting Feb. 18, 2026
• Montreal (YUL) – Valencia (VLC): 1 flight/week, starting Feb. 21, 2026
• Quebec City (YQB) – Fort-de-France (FDF): 1 flight/week, starting Dec. 14, 2025
• Quebec City (YQB) – Pointe-à-Pitre (PTP): 1 flight/week, starting Feb. 18, 2026
• Charlottetown (YYG) – Cancun (CUN): 1 flight/week, starting Feb. 18, 2026
• Fredericton (YFC) – Cancun (CUN): 1 flight/week, starting Feb. 18, 2026
• Windsor (YQG) – Punta Cana (PUJ): 1 flight/week, starting Dec. 19, 2025
Air Transat is also strengthening its overall winter offering by increasing capacity and adding frequencies on several existing routes to the south
and across the Atlantic. This year’s schedule represents a year over year capacity increase of about 6%.
• Montreal (YUL) – Lyon (LYS): 3 flights/week (+1)
• Montreal (YUL) – Marseille (MRS): 3 flights/week (+1)
• Quebec City (YQB) – Paris (CDG): 4 flights/week (+1)
• Halifax (YHZ) – Montego Bay (MBJ): Extended season starting in December and 2 flights/week (+1)
• Montreal (YUL) – Punta Cana (PUJ): 16 flights/week (+2)
• Montreal (YUL) – Holguin (HOG): 5 flights/week (+1)
• Montreal (YUL) – Puerto Vallarta (PVR): 6 flights/week (+1)
• Montreal (YUL) – Pointe-à-Pitre (PTP): 4 flights/week (+1)
• Toronto (YYZ) – Cayo Coco (CCC): 4 flights/week (+1)
• Toronto (YYZ) – Cartagena (CTG): 2 flights/week (+1)
• Toronto (YYZ) – Puerto Plata (POP): 5 flights/week (+1)
• Toronto (YYZ) – Saint Martin (SXM): 2 flights/week (+1)
• Toronto (YYZ) – Rio Hato (RIH): 3 flights/week (+1)
• Quebec City (YQB) – Cancun (CUN): 7 flights/week (+1)
• Quebec City (YQB) – Holguin (HOG): 3 flights/week (+1)
Air Transat’s growing network includes flights with joint venture partner Porter Airlines, which facilitate connections from Montreal, Toronto and Quebec City.
Big changes coming for Aeroplan in 2026: Air Canada
MONTREAL Effective for travel on or after Jan. 1, 2026, Aeroplan members will earn points on eligible Air Canada flights based on dollars spent rather than the distance they travel.
At the same time Air Canada will also introduce Status Qualifying Credits (SQC), a new single path for achieving Aeroplan Elite status, that will change how members qualify for status based on their activities from Jan. 1, 2026 onward.
Members will be able to get SQC through eligible flight purchases, Aeroplan credit card spending, and activity with the program’s travel and everyday partners.
According to Air Canada, these changes are designed to better recognize Aeroplan members who spend more and travel more with Air Canada and who actively engage across the program, while keeping Aeroplan Elite status ‘truly special’.
“Aeroplan has grown into one of the most rewarding and widely used travel loyalty programs,” said Scott O’Leary, Vice President, Loyalty & Product at Air Canada. “Our most engaged members do more than just fly with us—they earn with our partners, choose flexible fares, and carry Aeroplan credit cards. These changes help us better recognize their loyalty and keep improving the experience.”
Aeroplan Elite status qualification is unchanged for the remainder of 2025, including how members achieve status for 2026.
Here’s how members will earn Aeroplan points and qualify for Aeroplan Elite Status as of Jan. 1, 2026:
• Earn points based on spend. Members will earn a minimum of 1 Aeroplan point per $1 spent on an eligible Air Canada flight (base fare and carrier surcharges, excluding applicable taxes, fees, and thirdparty charges). For example: Spend $427 on base fare and carrier surcharges (excluding applicable taxes, fees and third-party charges), get 427 Aeroplan points.
• Frequent bonus points offers, enabling members to reach rewards faster.
• Aeroplan Elite status Members earn more on Air Canada flights. Depending on their status level at time of travel, Aeroplan Elite status members will earn 2x to 6x Aeroplan points per dollar spent on eligible Air Canada flights.
• Qualify for Elite Status with SQC. Get up to 4 SQC per dollar on eligible Air Canada fares (base fare and carrier surcharges, excluding applicable taxes, fees, and third-party charges) based on fare type, plus up to 25,000 SQC through eligible Aeroplan credit card spending and get an additional 25,000 SQC via eligible partner activity.
Along with the new SQC-based qualification path, Aeroplan Elite
status members will have more ways to unlock benefits:
• Core Benefits continue to be offered based on status, including complimentary checked bags and priority airport services
• Milestone Benefits unlocked every 10,000 SQC, offering perks like bonus SQC and Status Passes
• 10% Head Start. Beginning in 2027, primary Aeroplan premium credit cardholders who qualify for Aeroplan Elite status can receive a 10% SQC bonus based on their previous year’s earnings
The airline said that “while each member’s activity will determine their new status level, we expect many of our current Aeroplan Elite status Members will benefit from the expanded ways to accumulate SQC. These changes are designed to better recognize and reward Aeroplan’s most loyal and engaged members.”
More information about the changes is at aircanada.com/ acearn2026 and aircanada.com/ elite2026.
Intrepid launches
World Sale and travel advisor contest
TORONTO Intrepid Travel’s World Sale is in full swing, offering all travellers up to 20% off select 2025 departures.
Running Aug. 12–31, the World Sale applies to bucket-list favourites like Japan, Vietnam, Iceland, Morocco, and India.
At the same time Intrepid is inviting travel advisors to go head-to-head in a leaderboard-style competition to see who can book the most and walk away with the ultimate reward: a free Intrepid trip (valued at up to US$2,500), with either a free single supplement or a companion trip (also up to US$2,500).
The grand prize will be awarded to the top-selling advisor by total transaction value (TTV) during the incentive period.
There are also 10 secondary prizes up for grabs: 5x Urban Adventures (up to US$150); and 5x Intrepid List travel books. The 10 secondary prizes will be awarded via random draw to any agent who makes at least one eligible booking.
HOW TO COMPETE
Travel advisors can take part by making a new booking for 2025 travel Aug. 12-31, 2025 (confirmed once deposit is paid).
Then submit your booking number at the booking form here (the form will be activated when the contest starts). «Watch the leaderboard heat up in the Intrepid Advisor Facebook Community,» says the company. Winners will be announced Sept. 2 via email and social.
“Our travel advisors are absolute legends and this month, we’re putting their hustle in the spotlight,” said Intrepid’s Laura Hernandez, Head of USA Partnerships. “This incentive is designed for agents at every level. You don’t need to be the biggest player to win. Just focused, fast, and fired up. We’re excited to see who rises to the top.”
INTREPID’S WORLD SALE
The travel company’s World Sale, running Aug. 12–31, applies to eligible departures Sept. 1-Dec. 18, 2025. The sale offers discounts worth up to 20% off select trips (terms and conditions apply).
“The World Sale is one of the best opportunities of the year for advisors to deliver real value to their clients,” said Anthony Considine, Head of Sales for North America at Intrepid Travel.
“With up to 20% off some of our most in-demand destinations, it’s the perfect moment to convert interest into bookings and help travellers lock in unforgettable 2025 adventures at the best possible price,” he added.
Laura Blanco to head AIC Hotel Group’s new Host Agency Sales department
AIC Hotel Group has appointed Laura Blanco as Director of Host Agency Sales, a newly established department within its sales division. With over 25 years of experience in the travel industry, Blanco’s career began in New York as a Business Development Manager representing Sandals & Beaches Resorts and Costa Cruises. She credits her love of the industry to spending 15 years at Cruise Planners diversifying the business in land travel and working as the Supplier Relations Liaison.
On her new role, Blanco says: “Supporting entrepreneurs and growing businesses has always been my passion, along with a deep love for the travel industry and world-class resorts. With AIC Hotel Group, I’m fortunate to combine both –focusing on a vital segment of the distribution channel while doing what I truly love.”
Izamal, Mexico with Intrepid Travel (photo courtesy Ben McNamara for Intrepid Travel)
Laura Blanco PEOPLE
TravelBrands’ Loyalty Rewards Program offers enhanced tiers, perks
MISSISSAUGA TravelBrands has made significant enhancements to its Loyalty Rewards Program.
As of Aug. 1, the program now includes a new sales-based tier structure, expanded redemption options, and elevated benefits across all product lines.
As Nathalie Tanious, President & CEO of H.I.S. Canada Travel Inc., parent company of TravelBrands, notes, travel advisors have been big fans of the program for more than 10 years.
“We’re always listening to feedback from our travel agent partners and finding new ways to help them thrive,” says Tanious. “These enhancements were built with a clear purpose: to reward their loyalty, recognize their performance, and empower them with tools that grow alongside their business. And this is only the beginning
– we will continue to innovate and support their long-term success.”
The enhanced program introduces three new sales-based tiers – Pro, Plus, and Elite:
• PRO: $0–$49,999.99 in annual sales
• PLUS: $50,000–$149,999.99 in annual sales
• ELITE: $150,000+ in annual sales
Agents begin at Level 1 as of Aug. 1, with tier status recalculated annually every July 31 based on net sales
(excluding taxes, commission, and service fees).
Earned sales will be applied the day after client departure (or ticketing for air consolidations), consistent with existing PTS rules.
Tanious says the latest changes bring added value and richer redemption opportunities:
• New $25 travel certificate for 2,000 points
• Updated certificate values: $50 = 4,000 points, $200 = 16,000 points, $500 = 40,000 points
• Onboard credits (OBCs) and TA discounts now linked to tier status
• Exclusive perks and recognition at every tier, with incremental rewards as agents advance
Tanious says the updates underscore TravelBrands’ ongoing commitment to celebrating the success and dedication of the travel agent community with a program that evolves alongside their business.
Full program details, terms, and the complete list of rewards can be found at travelbrandsaccess.com.
WE’RE ALWAYS LISTENING
TO FEEDBACK FROM
OUR
TRAVEL AGENT PARTNERS
WestJet reports strong August long weekend stats
CALGARY WestJet is sharing what it calls significant operational milestones achieved throughout the August long weekend.
The airline is also marking a record number of passengers carried across the airline’s global network.
Between Friday, Aug. 1 and Monday, Aug. 4, WestJet successfully carried a total of 314,536 guests, reporting a strong completion factor of 98.7% and an A15 on-time performance of 69.2%.
Diederik Pen, President, WestJet Airlines and Group Chief Operating Officer, thanked WestJetters for their efforts.
“Once again, I want to express my gratitude to all the teams across our business who contributed to the weekend’s operational success,” said Pen.
“As we look forward to the second half of the summer, I want to commend our frontline WestJetters for their dedication to guest experience, while simultaneously delivering a safe, stable and reliable travel experience,” he added.
As the first half of the peak-summer travel period comes to a close, the airline is reaffirming its focus on operational resilience and guest experience.
Since July 1, WestJet has carried more than 2.2 million guests, maintaining an overall A15 on-time performance of 71.3% across all flights with a completion factor of 98.2%.
The airline notes that the results underscore WestJet’s continued commitment to safe, reliable and efficient air travel during the busy summer travel season.
Nathalie Tanious
Transat’s BonBon program suspended until further notice
MONTREAL — With Transat’s BonBon program suspended until further notice, it’s no longer possible to accumulate BonBon rewards for new bookings.
“We confirm that the BonBon rewards program, offered to our network of travel advisors, is suspended until further notice,” said Marie-Christine Pouliot, head of public relations and marketing content at Transat, after being contacted by Profession Voyages.
“This suspension is due to factors beyond our control, including the termination of the contract between the program’s banking services provider and the program manager, as well as ongoing technical issues,” said Pouliot.
“Participants have received instructions from the financial institution to access their accumulated funds,” she added. “We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused to our valued partners and
are committed to providing them with all relevant updates as they become available.”
For several months the program has experienced several failures and has given Transat and the advisors involved headaches.
On Facebook, several of them expressed concern about not knowing what will happen to their promised rewards, or about the discrepancy between the points they claim they have accumulated and the information held by DCBank, which manages them. DCBank has also issued a new card that would allow advisors to collect their due.
But other advisors are particularly concerned about having received a tax statement for these rewards, without having received them.
For now, BonBon program member advisors are advised to contact DCBank at clientsupport@dcbank.ca for more information.
Jacqueline Hider PEOPLE
Mississauga, ON agent wins Grenada trip
Travel consultant Jacqueline Hider with Marlin Travel in Mississauga is the lucky winner of a trip for two to Grenada. The prize, courtesy of the Grenada Tourism Authority’s latest contest for the Canadian travel trade, includes roundtrip airfare and a seven-night stay at Grenada’s True Blue Bay Boutique Resort.
Getting to Grenada is now more seamless than ever. With year-round direct service from Toronto, travellers can escape to the Caribbean without the hassle of long layovers. Air Canada increased its summer capacity, offering two weekly flights (Sundays and Mondays) June 2-Aug. 31. The additional lift opens even more opportunities for Canadian travellers to experience Grenada’s unforgettable charm.
Travel advisors wanting to learn more about Grenada’s latest news and promotions can check out expert. puregrenada.com.
Stay at 1, Play at 5 in Riviera Maya!
The all-suite, all-inclusive Barceló Maya Palace, set on almost 2km of white sandy beach, is brimming with family fun for all ages. With access to Barceló Maya Beach, Caribe, Colonial and Tropical, guests can enjoy up to 22 restaurants, 20 bars, a variety of spectacular pools, daily activities, a world-class spa, bowling alley, and more. And for a more elevated experience, Premium Level accommodations include perks like 24-hour room service, unlimited access to specialty restaurants and private check-in.
Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort &
Spa opens in the Dominican Republic
CHICAGO — Hyatt Hotels Corporation has officially opened Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa, an adultsonly, all-inclusive resort located on the untouched shores of Playa Esmeralda in the Miches region of the Dominican Republic.
Situated along a rare stretch of coastline where dense rainforest meets powder-soft beaches, Secrets Playa Esmeralda offers guests a unique opportunity to connect with one of the Caribbean’s most pristine natural environments. The location remains largely undiscovered, providing a tranquil retreat far from more developed tourist areas.
The resort features 500 elegantly appointed suites, each with a private terrace or balcony, many with ocean views and swim-out access. In-room details include spacious bathrooms with rain showers and double vanities while other resort offerings include 24-hour room and concierge service and a full calendar of entertainment and activities. Preferred Club accommodations provide additional perks such as personalised checkin and checkout, upgraded minibars, exclusive pools and beach areas, pillow menus and dedicated
butler service. The Preferred Club Presidential Suite offers expansive oceanfront luxury including a private kitchen and jet pool terrace.
Dining at Secrets Playa Esmeralda is curated by Executive Chef Carlos Quijano, with 11 restaurants and seven bars offering diverse culinary options. The signature restaurant, Doña Altagracia, celebrates Dominican culinary heritage with elevated dishes like risotto featuring stewed goat and mofongo.
The resort’s Secrets Spa offers treatments ranging from body renewal rituals to customised facials and vitamin-rich manicures and pedicures using locally sourced ingredients such as coconut powder and concentrated aloe vera. Facilities include a hydrotherapy circuit, sauna, whirlpool, cold plunge, bridal suite and a Master Spa Cabin with a terrace for fullservice treatments.
For active travellers, Secrets Playa Esmeralda provides a fitness centre, tennis courts, beach volleyball courts, water sports, aerobics, dance and Spanish classes, kayaking, snorkelling and introductory scuba lessons.
Guests can also explore the Miches region through excursions like a mountaintop swing at Montaña Redonda, mangrove kayaking in Los Haitises National Park, hiking to Salto La Jalda waterfall, seasonal whale watching and observing
sea turtle hatchlings on protected nesting beaches. The resort supports conservation efforts through collaboration with Promiches, a local organisation promoting sustainable development in Miches, including installing a protected sea turtle nest on the beachfront.
Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa offers more than leisure stays, providing over 15,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space ideal for destination weddings, executive retreats and private occasions. The resort features three wedding venues, including a beachfront gazebo, and a grand ballroom with dedicated planners to ensure flawless celebrations. Business groups benefit from eleven versatile meeting venues, including the 1,440-seat Miches Ballroom and breakout rooms, with onsite planners supporting personalised team-building and dining experiences.
A vibrant Public Square serves as a social hub shared with the adjacent family-friendly Dreams Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa. Guests of Secrets Playa Esmeralda have full access to Dreams’ dining, entertainment and amenities, creating a complementary experience across both resorts.
Dreams Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa is scheduled to open Sept. 1, 2025, offering 500 suites, a waterpark, kids and teen clubs, ten restaurants and seven bars. Designed for families and multigenerational travellers, it will also be a prime destination wedding venue.
For more information on Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa, go to hyattinclusivecollection.com.
Secrets Playa Esmeralda Resort & Spa
ASIA PACIFIC
The magic and wonders of Asia Pacific await
“Moving dreams forward”: Redefining travel with Trip Connoisseurs
As travel advisors well know, today’s travellers expect more than standard itineraries and cookie-cutter experiences.
They’re looking for trips that reflect who they are, journeys designed to reflect their passions, interests and values – all while meeting their budget.
At Trip Connoisseurs, that’s what they do. Personalization isn’t a luxury – it is their baseline.
Trip Connoisseurs is a boutique tour operator founded in 2016 by travel industry veterans Chris Wang, Kerry Ke and Mary Surbek.
Managing Director Chris Wang began his travel career in China before joining a leading Canadian tour operator in 1996. Over the years, he continued to grow within the industry, working with several respected travel wholesalers and playing an integral role in sales, products and operations.
Executive Director Kerry Ke left his career in the food and nutrition industry to pursue his passion for travel. What began as a personal journey soon sparked an unquenchable desire to explore the world—and eventually, to share it with others.
Sales Manager Mary Surbek has been in the travel industry for decades. After travelling to dozens of countries, Surbek collects hidden gems and lesspopular places.
“Travel is like fuel – it feeds the soul with a fresh view of the world,” says Wang. “Whether it’s a seasoned traveller seeking somewhere new or a first timer chasing iconic views, our itineraries strike the perfect balance between familiarity and the unexpected.”
Trip Connoisseurs has earned a strong reputation in the travel agency community for its inclusive and collaborative approach. The team treats every booking with equal care, says Wang. They never ‘cherry-pick’ based on size, volume or prestige. Big or small, every booking matters.
William Wang with Cathay Pacific, Kerry Ke with Trip Connoisseurs, Yuen Kan Wong with the HKTB and Chris Wang with Trip Connoisseurs
Trip Connoisseurs’ Chris Wang heads up a presentation at the Chinese Embassy in Ottawa
Trip Connoisseurs’ Kerry Ke, Mary Surbek and Chris Wang
Not only do they offer a full spectrum of private tours and charters, their portfolio also includes educational tours led by university professors, wine journeys hosted by vineyard owners and customized corporate incentive programs.
Trip Connoisseurs’ global portfolio is impressive, from Africa & the Middle East, to the Americas & Antarctic, to Asia & Pacific, to Europe and beyond.
With some 140 trips in Asia & Pacific, the wideranging offerings include Japan, China, Tibet & Himalayas, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Hong Kong & Macao, Thailand, Singapore, Bali & Indonesia, Mongolia, South Korea, Taiwan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Malaysia & Borneo, Philippines, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Myanmar.
As Trip Connoisseurs notes, Asia is one of the most fascinating regions of the world, dynamic, populated and rich in unique and aged cultures. This blessed region offers numerous must-to-see sites and many of them are amongst the designation of UNESCO World Heritage, making this region one of the most visited places on Earth.
Also on offer: Australia, New Zealand, Fiji & French Polynesia, Maldives and more.
The company is also adept with handling special requests, such as a 2020 study tour for the Canadian Association of Former Parliamentarians to explore the culture, history and cuisine of Vietnam, capped by a private meeting with senior government officials at the National Assembly of Vietnam.
More recently, Wang was invited by the Chinese Embassy in Ottawa to present and promote China’s UNESCO World Heritage – a significant honour recognizing the company’s commitment to meaningful, culturally rich travel.
‘Moving Your Dream Forward’ is more than a slogan for Trip Connoisseurs — it’s their mission. Let their Connoisseurs work with you to design a trip tailored to your client’s personal passions and style. With their global network and insider access they can plan their perfect journey.
For more information see TripConnoisseurs.com.
Expanded lift to Nassau for winter 2025-2026
TORONTO — Travellers and the travel industry can look forward to more lift to Nassau in The Bahamas this winter.
Nonstop service to Nassau is expanding significantly for winter 2025-2026 with new flights from Air Canada and WestJet.
All in all there is nonstop service from 43 markets in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and South America to Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS).
Flights from Canada are wellconnected year-round with service from Air Canada and WestJet operating all summer.
Here’s a closer look at the winter 2025-2026 highlights:
AIR CANADA
• Toronto: Daily year-round service, increasing to 12 flights per week in October (new)
• Montreal: 1 flight per week in summer, increasing to 4 flights per week in December
• Ottawa: New nonstop service launching in Dec., 1 flight per week on Fridays
• Halifax: New nonstop service launching in December, 1 flight per week on Fridays
WESTJET
• Toronto: 4 flights per week in summer, increasing to 7 flights per week in December
• Calgary: New nonstop service launching in December, 1 flight per week
Celestyal launches trade survey & incentive
TORONTO — Celestyal has launched a new travel advisor engagement survey and incentive offer.
The survey – which ran until Aug. 15 on the cruise line’s social media channels and open to all advisors – gathered feedback from the trade, with questions relating to brand awareness, booking tools, incentives and advisor engagement.
Travel advisors who completed the survey by this date will be entered into a prize drawing to win one of 10 $100 Amazon vouchers. Winners will be notified via email, beginning the week of Sept. 1.
John Diorio, Managing Director and VP of Business Development for North America at Celestyal, said the survey forms part of a wider trade-first strategy being introduced by Celestyal, with the results directly feeding
into the future advisor engagement strategy deployed by the cruise line.
Celestyal’s trade tools include its advisor portal, Celestyal Compass, which incorporates the learning platform, Celestyal Campus. This features training modules focusing on areas such as brand USPs, life onboard its two-ship fleet, key itinerary information, shore excursions and advice on how to grow sales.
“Travel advisors play a vital role in bringing our unique cruise experiences to life for guests, so it’s important that we understand their needs and preferred ways of working. Trade feedback is essential as we continue to evolve and this survey is more than a questionnaire; it’s a conversation starter that puts the advisor voice at the heart of our strategy,” said Diorio.
More information is at CelestyalCompass.com.
Carnival in The Bahamas (photo courtesy Nassau & Paradise Island, The Bahamas)
AKTG debuts global advisory board, enhanced agent portal
DOWNERS GROVE, IL Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group has created a new global advisory board, plus it’s strengthening its trade leadership brand focus.
AKTG’s Global Advisory Board is under the leadership of Marett Taylor, who will assume the new role as Chairman, Global AKTG Advisory Board & Trade Relations, as well as her appointment to the board for A&K Philanthropy (AKP).
The company says Taylor’s new strategic role represents AKTG’s “commitment to advisor-driven innovation from a global perspective.”
The multi-brand advisory board, a first for AKTG, will pull input from key source markets across the industry, bringing together the top travel agency leaders to shape future product development and trade initiatives for AKTG. The board will meet with key AKTG leadership multiple times a year to provide guidance on product development, market trends and trade initiatives.
The inaugural Global AKTG Advisory Board will include travel agency leaders from across the U.S., Canada, Latin America, U.K., Europe, and APAC regions.
AKTG notes that appointments are ongoing, however new notable appointments include, from Canada, travel specialist Aida Silva with Mississauga, ON’s Tully Luxury Travel and Stephen Smith, SVP, Leisure Strategy & Marketing for Direct Travel.
At the same time, AKTG’s Shawn Johnson and Matias Lira will continue to strengthen trade partnerships in North America and LATAM through key SVP roles. Each will lead trade sales teams for the Group’s flagship brands, Abercrombie & Kent and Crystal, with dedicated focus on their respective brands.
Johnson, who is SVP, Trade Sales, North America, will continue to lead all trade sales and strategy for Abercrombie & Kent in the U.S./Canada market, including for A&K DMC sales and A&K Sanctuary globally.
AKTG’s says its deepened brand commitment in the leadership structure coincides with unprecedented expansion across AKTG’s full portfolio.
Crystal continues its successful relaunch with two vessels now operational and robust forward bookings, while securing financing for two additional ships, with the first expected for delivery beginning May 2028.
Abercrombie & Kent continues its momentum with new DMCs and key new product launches from small group journeys to destinations such as Madagascar and Sri Lanka, alongside new Culinary Journeys, expedition cruises and new itineraries on the A&K private jet.
Under its A&K Sanctuary portfolio, the brand continues to expand with multiple openings in 2025, including Gorilla Forest Lodge in Uganda, Pure Amazon riverboat in Peru, and Baines’ Lodge in Botswana.
AKTG is also launching an enhanced digital Trade Portal featuring marketing assets, real-time inventory management and streamlined booking capabilities. The platform will provide advisors with instant access to high-res imagery, product specifications, selling tools and personalized client presentation materials.
The portal will also offer enhanced training modules, webinar scheduling, and direct communication channels with the expanded sales leadership team.
Shawn Johnson, SVP, Trade Sales, North / America, Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group
Air France-KLM and Groupe ADP launch Short Connection Pass at CDG
PARIS Air France-KLM and Groupe ADP have launched the first major initiative under their Connect France partnership, introduced at the 55th Paris Air Show.
The new program is aimed at streamlining the connecting experience for travellers at ParisCharles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), where nearly half of Air France’s 140,000 daily passengers transfer between flights.
Connect France’s debut feature is the Short Connection Pass, a system designed to prioritize passengers with limited time to make their onward connection. The service is being introduced during the busy summer travel period, offering an automatic solution for passengers navigating short transfer windows –without requiring any action on their part.
To support the program, Groupe ADP has implemented a dedicated route through the airport complete with newly redesigned multilingual signage to better direct passengers making connections. While Air France’s flight schedule is already optimized to facilitate efficient transfers, the system is intended to support passengers when unforeseen delays or short transfer times create added pressure between flights.
When a connecting itinerary meets certain thresholds – such as a 45-minute transfer from a flight arriving from Toulouse to an onward flight to New York JFK departing from a different terminal – the Short Connection Pass is triggered automatically.
Passengers are alerted by text message and email upon arrival at Paris-Charles de Gaulle. The communication notifies them that they are eligible for priority access at security and border control checkpoints due to their shortened connection window. This functionality will soon be expanded to include alerts via the Air France mobile app and WhatsApp.
At the checkpoints, boarding passes are scanned, and Groupe ADP’s service provider is automatically notified of the short connection. Travellers are then granted expedited access, allowing them to reach their gate faster and reduce the risk of missing their next flight.
The system is powered by real-time data sharing between Air France, Groupe ADP and its service provider. This includes estimated walking time through the airport, expected wait times at security screenings and the updated departure time of the passenger’s next flight.
TTC Tour Brands has a new Sales Manager
Intrepid Travel has named Anthony Considine as Head of Sales, North America. In his new role Considine will report to Christian Wolters, Intrepid’s North American GM. He brings more than a decade of travel sales experience across global markets, including senior roles at Flight Centre Australia and OPUS Hotel Group.
In his new role Considine will oversee Intrepid’s sales strategy across Canada and the U.S. Currently based in Vancouver, and relocating to the Toronto office, Considine is focused on scaling revenue, deepening trade relationships, and building a dynamic, unified sales culture aligned with Intrepid’s B Corp values.
Considine joined Intrepid in 2024 as Sales Manager for Tailor-Made. Under his watch, Tailor-Made sales are up 66% year-over-year, with a recordbreaking December 2024, along with strong representation at top industry events.
THE NEW PROGRAM IS AIMED AT STREAMLINING THE CONNECTING EXPERIENCE AT CDG
Anthony Considine PEOPLE
Alps2Adriatic showcased for Canadian travel advisors, tour ops thanks to New Deal Europe & ETC
TORONTO New Deal Europe, in partnership with Visit Europe (European Travel Commission), is kicking off a new campaign to introduce North American tour operators and travel advisors to the Alps2Adriatic region.
Not only that, the New Deal Europe team is also visiting 11 cities across Canada next month, and wants to meet with travel advisors and tour operators interested in promoting and selling this part of Europe.
The campaign’s focus is promoting travel to Friuli-Venezia Giulia in Italy, Slovenia’s Julian Alps, Vipava Valley and Karst, and Croatia’s resort destination of Umag, say organizers, and will run through December.
As noted by Robert Dee, co-founder of New Deal Europe, as long-standing promoters of South Europe, and with years of experience working with the North American market, New Deal Europe is well placed to achieve the goal of increasing awareness of this region among travel professionals in the U.S. and Canada who are looking to expand their European product offerings.
The New Deal Europe team is planning sales visits across North America and webinars for agents in a coordinated effort to strengthen the region’s position as a place worthy of deeper exploration.
Says Dee: “We are fully prepared for a busy and exciting few months ahead. This part of Europe has all the right ingredients for the North American market. It is already
recognized for its beautiful natural landscapes, award winning wine and world beating gastronomy, but there’s also fantastic architecture, a wealth of cultural attractions, and a rich history. What’s more, it is leading the way in activity and sustainable tourism opportunities. It’s a winning combination and we want to help the trade understand how to package all this and make it part of their regular sales portfolio.”
The region’s highlights include Lake Bohinj in Slovenia (widely recognized for its award winning sustainability efforts and community-first approach), the border towns of Nova Gorica and Gorizia (once separated by the ‘Iron Curtain’ and this year’s joint European Capital of Culture), the natural beauty of the Karst region with its Škocjan Caves (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Lipizzaner stud farm, the coastal beauty of
Umag, and Trieste, the major city in the region.
“This is the right time for this kind of campaign,” adds Tine Murn, cofounder, New Deal Europe. “Demand for Europe from the U.S. and Canada keeps growing. Recent reports point to a continued increase in bookings and a renewed interest in places that offer something different. The Alps2Adriatic region is full of history, character and real hospitality. It’s not overrun, and it rewards people who want to become fully immersed in all it has to offer.”
Eduardo Santander, Executive Director of the European Travel Commission, says the ETC is “proud to support initiatives like Alps2Adriatic that highlight the richness of Europe beyond the usual spots.”
WE ARE FULLY PREPARED FOR A BUSY AND EXCITING FEW MONTHS AHEAD
New Deal Europe co-founders Tine Murn (third from left) and Robert Dee (centre) with New Deal Europe’s Italian (FVG) and Slovenian (Vipava Valley and Nova Gorica) partners, at the ‘open border crossing’ between Slovenia and Italy
VISITS TO 11 CANADIAN CITIES START NEXT MONTH
Starting in September, New Deal Europe will visit 11 cities across Canada. The group wants travel advisors and tour operators to feel free to connect with New Deal Europe to find out more about the region.
“In recent months, our partners have been noticing increased interest from Canada, which is one of the key reasons we are planning a comprehensive sales trip this September,” says Murn.
The New Deal Europe team will be available in the following cities (all dates confirmed):
• Halifax (Sept. 11–12)
• Charlottetown (Sept. 13)
• Montreal (Sept. 14–16)
• Quebec City (Sept. 17)
• Toronto (Sept. 18–19)
• Yellowknife (Sept. 20)
• Calgary (Sept. 22)
• Edmonton (Sept. 23)
• Saskatoon (Sept. 24)
• Regina (Sept. 25)
• Winnipeg (Sept. 26)
The team will also be in Ottawa and the surrounding area Nov. 9–12 for the NTA Conference, during which time there will be the opportunity for additional sales visits.
New Deal Europe’s site is NewDealEurope.com. Agents and tour ops looking to meet with the New Deal Europe team in one of the 11 cities, click on the Alps2Adriatic heading (NewDealEurope.com/alps2-adriatic) to fill out the ‘Book Your Meeting’ form. The team notes that depending on interest levels in each city, workshop-style events will be organized, or one-on-one meetings.
Car rental prices in Canada projected to rise modestly, says Amex GBT
TORONTO Car rental rates in Canada are expected to see modest increases over the next year, according to the newly released Ground Monitor 2025–26 from American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT).
The report forecasts Canadian rental prices will rise by 2.5% to 3.0% in the year ahead, reflecting a stabilizing market following years of volatility.
While the Canadian market remains more balanced than many global counterparts, local factors continue to drive pricing trends. Amex notes that GBT Consulting Canada’s expected increases outpace those in the U.S., where rates are projected to rise by just 1.5% to 1.9%. However, the forecast suggests a slower rate of increase than the previous year, pointing to a gradual return to pricing stability.
“Strong supply in North America should keep a lid on rental price rises,” the report states, adding that “this forecast could be blown off course by the impacts of trade tariffs on the wider US economy and the car rental sector.”
The annual outlook, based on economic modelling and travel industry data, highlights a global trend toward stabilization. However, pricing remains variable
across regions. Countries like the Netherlands and the Nordics are expected to see little to no increase (up to 2.0%), while the UK, France and Australia face more significant pressure. Rates in the UK could climb 5.0% to 7.0%, France up to 5.0% and Australia as much as 7.0%, largely due to supply-demand imbalances and evolving fleet management strategies.
“After years of disruption, we’re now seeing car rental prices begin to stabilize across many countries,” said Sara Andell, Director of Consulting Strategy at Amex GBT Consulting. “But the picture isn’t uniform. Local conditions vary, and fastmoving geopolitical and economic developments still have the potential to shift pricing quickly.”
For Canadian businesses, the Ground Monitor 2025–26 report outlines several strategies to control costs and adapt to shifting traveller needs:
• Strengthening partnerships with car rental suppliers to secure availability during peak travel periods
• Aligning rental and fleet operations across departments to gain visibility and improve value
• Incorporating ride-share options to align with traveller preferences and improve data collection
• Preparing for the integration of autonomous vehicles and the resulting implications on policy, risk and insurance
FAST-MOVING GEOPOLITICAL AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENTS STILL HAVE THE POTENTIAL TO SHIFT PRICING QUICKLY
Celebrity Cruises
opens the books on first of its 2027-2028 itineraries
MIAMI Celebrity Cruises is offering a first look at its 2027-2028 season, featuring more than 175 sailings across Europe, Alaska, Hawaii, Australia, Japan, Canada and New England.
The cruise line’s portfolio for 20272028 includes 180+ destinations “from Sydney to Santorini.”
Key highlights include Celebrity Xcel returning to Europe for a second Mediterranean season, an extended
Alaska season for Celebrity Edge (now in its fourth year), and unique cultural experiences tied to Japan’s Gion and Nebuta festivals.
The season also features more than 60 overnight stays and over 115 port days of 12+ hours across European destinations.
Notable first and expansions include:
• Celebrity Millennium home-porting from Tokyo’s Narita terminal for a second season with overnight stays in four sought-after Japanese cities
• Year-round European sailings on Celebrity Infinity, including offseason departures to the Canary
Islands and Morocco
• Back-to-back Mediterranean sailings on Celebrity Xcel covering France, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Morocco, Greece and Turkey
The season is now on sale for Europe, Japan, Canada/New England and Spring Transatlantics, with Alaska and Hawaii following on Sept. 9. Australia sailings will open for bookings Sept. 30.
Plus, coming soon, says Celebrity, 2027-2028 bookings will open for Caribbean, Southeast Asia, Fall Transatlantics and Galapagos.
Celebrity Apex in Norway
TourRadar launches new fund to support travel creators, agents and guides
TORONTO TourRadar has unveiled RISE, a new US$1 million partner fund aimed at rewarding creators, agents, guides and travellers who drive discovery and booking of organized adventures.
The initiative reflects TourRadar’s evolving focus on social-led, mobilefirst travel planning and is designed to incentivize community-driven content and engagement.
“We’re shifting from relying just on marketing on traditional advertising platforms to driving people-powered momentum,” said Travis Pittman, CEO and Co-Founder of TourRadar. “RISE is about making sure the people driving inspiration every day are rewarded for it.”
RISE builds on the momentum of TourRadar Moments, the company’s new in-app feature where travellers and creators can upload shortform videos and reels from their adventures, all linked to bookable tours. Now, with the RISE fund, contributors can earn cash, travel credits and perks by inspiring bookings and engagement.
The program rewards the following travel ambassadors, creators and professionals:
• Ambassadors (travellers and creators) who sharing video and photo content from past tours (aka ‘TourRadar Moments’), and share promo codes or social visibility, earning passive income through affiliate links and landing paid collabs and free trips
• Advisors who recommend and help others book trips, earning extra income by turning their passion for travel into a rewarding side hustle
• Professional travel agents who book trips for clients while earning generous commission
• Guides can join RISE as an Ambassador or Advisor to grow their income and impact
The new program builds on the success of TourRadar Moments, a feature that allows travellers and creators to upload short-form videos linked to specific tours. RISE now extends this by introducing financial incentives and more structured support for contributors who drive traffic and bookings.
According to the company, RISE is already fuelling a growing community of contributors posting content from over 160 countries. It’s also seeing an increased interest in off-thebeaten-path and shoulder-season travel, as well as higher engagement from solo travellers and social adventurers seeking communitybased recommendations.
“We’ve seen how platforms like Shopify and Amazon have turned partner ecosystems into billiondollar engines,” added Pittman. “With RISE, we’re laying the foundation for something just as ambitious: a partner economy that can grow from $1 million today to $10 million and beyond. This is only the beginning.”
To further develop its community, TourRadar also plans to host its first-ever Partner Trip, an immersive experience designed to bring top contributors together for handson workshops and destination discovery. The trip will serve as both a networking event and a learning opportunity, highlighting how to turn content creation and client referrals into long-term revenue.
For more information, go to https:// www.tourradar.com/llp/rise.
Discover the World partners with iryo to promote Spain train travel
TORONTO Discover the World has signed a strategic partnership with iryo aimed at enhancing awareness of Spanish high-speed train travel among international audiences.
The collaboration will focus on promoting iryo’s extensive network and onboard offerings to travel trade partners around the globe.
“We are delighted to enter into this partnership and look forward to sharing this exceptional product with our trade partners. Spain is one of the most sought-after travel destinations worldwide, and iryo’s high-speed trains provide the most convenient and sustainable way to explore this beautiful country,” said Ian Murray, CEO, Discover the World.
As Spain’s leading private highspeed rail operator by number of frequencies and fleet volume, iryo is owned by partners Trenitalia, Air Nostrum and Globalvia. The company started operations in 2022.
Simone Gorini, CEO, iryo, said: “From iryo we always look for the best way to reach our customers based on a sustainable and highquality transport model. With this relationship we hope that our product will reach more and more people in the world who travel to Spain. This agreement reinforces our effort to internationalize the high-speed train as the form of transport of the future and we are confident that through having a reference product this will be the case.”
Blue Diamond Resorts rebrands
as Royalton Hotels & Resorts
ST. MICHAEL, BARBADOS Blue Diamond Resorts has rebranded as Royalton Hotels & Resorts, marking the next phase in the company’s evolution after 15 years in the allinclusive sector.
The change took effect Aug. 11 and consolidates the company’s brand identity under the Royalton name, which has become synonymous with its guest experience across the Caribbean.
The move aligns the company’s portfolio and visual identity while maintaining the same operations and brand essence. Royalton properties are located in seven sun destinations, and the rebrand aims to strengthen brand recognition and reinforce its position in the modern all-inclusive market.
“This is more than a name change. It is a strategic alignment of our brand portfolio that highlights the strength and recognition of Royalton,” said Jordi Pelfort, President of Royalton Hotels & Resorts.
As part of the rebrand, Hideaway at Royalton will now be known as Royalton Hideaway, A Resort Within a Resort, continuing to offer an
elevated adults-only experience under the Royalton umbrella. Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts will become Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts by Royalton, combining its cinematic concept with the strength of the Royalton brand.
Pelfort added: “With every brand now part of the Royalton family, our identity has never been more unified or more powerful. Royalton is no longer just a brand. It is a household name that guests remember and trust. As we celebrate 15 years of excellence, this evolution marks a defining moment in our history. Blue Diamond Resorts will always be part of our DNA. Its mission, vision and spirit remain at the core of who we are.”
The company’s portfolio will continue to include Royalton Luxury Resorts, Royalton CHIC Resorts, Royalton Vessence Resorts, the rebranded Royalton Hideaway Resorts, Planet Hollywood Hotels & Resorts by Royalton, Mystique by Royalton and Grand Lido Negril.
The rebrand follows a year of growth for the company, which launched Royalton Vessence Resorts, announced Royalton CHIC Jamaica Paradise Cove, and has new developments underway in the Caribbean.
For more information, visit www.royalton.com.
Royalton Hideaway
