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“Prepare, don’t scare”: One travel risk management expert’s go-to tips for travel
advisors with booking-hesitant clients
BY KATHRYN FOLLIOTT
TORONTO — Helping clients book and travel without fear or hesitation can be a tall order these days.
One day, everything is fine. The next day, it’s another round of chaos for the travel industry, and travellers. Take your pick: war, Ebola, hantavirus, jet fuel shortages, ongoing crossborder rhetoric, geopolitical tensions. And that’s just the last few months.
Economic concerns loom large too. “I have more and more clients interested in Europe and Med sailings over Caribbean, but prices are around three times to Europe vs. flying to the U.S. to catch a Caribbean cruise. It definitely hits the pocketbook a little more and flights become one of the biggest concerns for the budget,” says cruise specialist Dylan Shaw with H2O Escapes.
Canadians have always ‘valued value’ – an understatement for many – and we’re used to punitive exchange rates and budget worries.
General unease, on the other hand, can be tricky to talk through. “I had one senior couple cancel a trip for 2027 ‘due to the world’s unrest’,” says Michelle Whalen with The Travel Agent Next Door.
Canadian are famously intrepid when it comes to travel, but some are just about done with it. They want to book a vacation but with so many uncertainties, they just don’t know
where to go, and a staycation – that 10-letter word that’s more like a fourletter word for the travel industry –looks increasingly appealing.
REASSURANCE IN TIMES OF INFO OVERLOAD
We wanted to know how travel advisors can help clients distinguish between anxiety vs. legitimate warning signs about travelling beyond their own backyards.
So we talked to TravRisk Institute Inc.’s Stephen Pike. Pike founded TravRisk as a global training and advisory platform focused on travel risk management and preparedness, open to travel advisors, corporations and just regular travellers. The program teaches advisors how to think about travel risk in a practical, balanced and non-alarmist way, he says. “It’s not about fear. It’s about preparedness, situational awareness and helping clients make informed decisions.”
The first tip for travel advisors: reassure clients in these times of information overload. “People are consuming global headlines in real time, but they often lack context for what those events actually mean operationally for their specific trip. A major headline somewhere in the world does not automatically mean travel is unsafe everywhere. At the same time, ignoring genuine warning signs can also create problems.”
RATIONAL VS. DISPROPORTIONATE
Tip #2: when it comes to international travel, some fears are rational, and others are disproportionate. “Some fears are absolutely rational,” says Pike. “Infrastructure instability, civil unrest, severe weather disruption, medical system limitations, cybercrime and transportation interruptions are all legitimate considerations because they can directly affect a traveller’s ability
to move, communicate or receive assistance. But many travellers tend to focus disproportionately on highly visible or heavily publicized threats while overlooking the more common disruptions that actually affect people every day.”
protests, transportation failures, cyber incidents, labour disruptions, public health events, or regional conflicts can alter conditions in hours or days,” says Pike.
“We’ve seen this repeatedly over the last decade. A destination
THE WORLD CHANGED FASTER THAN TRAVEL PREPAREDNESS DID
For example, clients often worry about dramatic low-probability events while underestimating things like phone theft, transportation strikes, fraud, lost documents, medication issues “or poor decisionmaking caused by fatigue and unfamiliar environments.” Every traveller knows that feeling.
“Most travel problems are not cinematic events,” says Pike. “They’re operational problems.”
How quickly can a ‘stable’ destination or region deteriorate? “Very quickly — and that’s one of the defining realities of modern travel,” he adds.
Over these past few tumultuous months some travel advisors have described finding a great getaway for their client as a game of Whac-aMole. “Travellers sometimes think of destinations as permanently ‘safe’ or ‘unsafe,’ but risk environments are dynamic. Weather events, political
can appear completely stable until a triggering event suddenly changes the operational picture. That doesn’t mean people should stop travelling. It means travellers and the industry need to think more in terms of adaptability and situational awareness.
GAP BETWEEN BOOKING TRAVEL & THE EXPERIENCE OF TRAVEL
One of Pike’s go-to phrases: “‘The world changed faster than travel preparedness did.’” He says the travel industry has become “incredibly efficient” at booking movement, but the preparedness side of travel has not evolved at the same pace.
He says he spent decades travelling internationally in industrial safety and risk management roles and over time, he noticed what he calls a growing disconnect between how
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complex the world was becoming and how casually many people still approach travel preparedness. “The modern travel environment changed dramatically … yet much of the travel conversation still revolved around bookings, upgrades and itineraries. I realized there was a major gap between the booking itself and the lived experience of travel.”
That’s where travel preparedness comes in. “The goal is not to make people fearful. The goal is to help them become more resilient and adaptable when things don’t go according to plan.”
And that brings us to tip #3. Travel advisors help clients separate anxiety from actionable risk, and that adds to their value proposition, says Pike. “They can help travellers ask better questions.”
Here’s a checklist for advisors counselling travel- and bookinghesitant clients: Is this event localized or widespread? Is infrastructure still functioning normally? Are flights operating normally? Are governments changing advisories? Is the concern emotional, or is it operational?
Good travel planning today “is no longer just about finding the best price or itinerary,” says Pike. “It’s increasingly about preparedness, context and informed decisionmaking. My philosophy is very simple: prepare, don’t scare.”
Tales from the passenger seat on Travel Nevada’s Sell Your Way to the USA FAM
BY WAHEEDA HARRIS
LAS VEGAS – Four strangers, one luxurious Lincoln Navigator SUV and a seven-day itinerary to dots on a map across Nevada.
This was the roadtrip of a lifetime for the Canadian winners of the Sell Your Way to the USA FAM, hosted by Travel Nevada.
Travel advisors Nicole Braga with Direct Travel in Cambridge, ON, Maria Karagioules of Voyage International ITA in Montreal and Callan Thompson with Sportscorp Travel based in Bolton, ON, with this Travelweek writer in tow, navigated miles and miles of Nevada highways over one memorable week.
The trip started in Las Vegas, for an exploration of the city beyond the Strip with a Taste Buzz food
tour, a performance of Cirque du Soleil’s Michael Jackson ONE and an after-dark visit to the famous Neon Museum.
Along the Great Basin Highway, Highway 50, Lake Tahoe Loop and Free-Range Art Highway, with a dash of Death Valley and returning to Las Vegas, we then set out on this roadtripping FAM. There were endless desert landscapes, crystalclear lakes, snow-capped mountains, winding roads, ghost towns, weird art installations and – hilarious, crazy or a bit spooky, depending on your perspective – a clown-themed motel.
PART 1: GREAT BASIN HIGHWAY
Leaving behind scorching Las Vegas, driving north gave us our first glimpse of the stunning formations of Cathedral Gorge State Park,
notable for 1,800 acres of eroded clay creating dramatic cathedral-like spires and formations.
Basing ourselves in Ely, NV, known for high-speed open-road car racing and proximity to Great Basin National Park, we completed a stunning drive to see Wheeler’s Peak at 10,000 feet above sea level.
There are several trails for hiking and mountain biking, and we spotted an antelope at Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park.
In the evening, we wandered along Ely’s Aultman Street for a visual town history told through murals before a tasty dinner at JT’s Steakhouse.
“From winding roads through the mountains, to long straight aways with no civilization in sight, I was surprised at the altitude in the ‘high desert’ - Travel advisor Callan Thompson
PART 2: THE LONELIEST ROAD IN AMERICA
With our ‘Loneliest Road in America’ passports in hand, we programmed the GPS, stocked snacks and water and headed west.
Sagebrush-covered hills, rising elevation and very few cars: Highway 50 was desolate but not disappointing. Passport stamps were happily acquired at disparate places and the quirky shoe tree was a reward after vast arid valleys led to delightful Fallon, NV, four hours later. This oasis boasts several farms, a historic shopping area, many restaurants and the Oats Park Art
Ely, Nevada’s Aultman Street is rich with murals depicting the town’s history
Center with a gallery and theatre. Fallon is also home to the US Navy’s Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor program, aka Top Gun, and where Top Gun Maverick was filmed.
“I was surprised by the variety of culinary offerings — from local coffee shops and steakhouses to diners and food trucks. The food was incredible. I also really enjoyed all the conversations, stories and history shared by the many Nevadans I had the chance to meet.” - Travel advisor Nicole Braga
PART 3: LAKE TAHOE LOOP
Into the Carson Mountain range we were greeted with the stunning sight of crystal-clear Lake Tahoe, North America’s largest alpine lake located in Nevada and California. The Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino features spacious rooms, several dining options and an outdoor pool area with hot tubs, with easy access to explore nearby attractions such as Sand Harbor State Park for watersports or Tahoe City, CA.
Lush forest led to the mining town of Tonopah, where the Historic Mining Park offers a memorable tour of how mineral discoveries sparked the town’s creation. This wee town also has a trio of scary sites: the Old Tonopah Cemetery with stories of lives lost during the boom; the 1907 Victorian Mizpah Hotel, with its ghostly floors; and the contemporary Clown Motel, dubbed America’s scariest motel with over 6,500 donated clown images, paintings and figurines.
“I was surprised at the diverse terrain and spectacular views from one town to the other and that there is lots to do regardless of your budget with many of the attractions completely free!” - Maria Karagioules
PART 4: FREE RANGE ART HIGHWAY
A dirt road leads to the International Car Forest of the Last Church, an open-air art gallery created by three artists with over 40 spray-painted vehicles partially buried. The largest auto art display in America is an Insta-worthy stop.
The final moments of this Nevada road trip were spent around a campfire swapping stories at Tarantula Ranch, a camping, glamping and vineyard in Nevada’s Amargosa Valley.
INSPIRING VISITORS TO ‘GET A LITTLE OUT THERE’
“Canada remains one of Nevada’s most important international markets, and programs like Sell Your Way to the USA play a key role in strengthening our relationships with the travel trade,” says Travel Nevada’s Nicole Orsua. “This itinerary
highlighted the many sides of Nevada, from world-class entertainment and iconic road trips to breathtaking outdoor adventures and welcoming small-town communities.” Travel Nevada has curated 10 road trips across the state designed to inspire visitors to ‘Get a Little Out There.’
As we toasted our seven days of exploration under the star-studded night sky at Tarantula Ranch, we left as friends – and with a deeper understanding of Nevada’s wealth of attractions beyond the bright lights of Las Vegas.
Information to help travel advisors and clients explore Nevada can be found at TravelNevada.com, and for Travel Nevada’s Trailblazer Specialist Program, click here.
Sell Your Way to the USA’s winning Canadian travel advisors Nicole Braga, Maria Karagioules and Callan Thompson with Fallon, Nevada’s Jane Moon and Robyn Jordan
DISRUPTIONS
Blue Diamond Resorts Cuba has ceased operations in Cuba after a months-long wind-down, and Iberostar and Melia have cut their ties with Gaviota as well, impacting the Spain-based hotel companies’ management of a long list of resorts in Cuba. The news comes ahead of the U.S. administration’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC)’s June 5 deadline for companies to cease operations in Cuba or face sanctions. Canada’s airlines suspended flights to Cuba months ago, and the travel advisory from Global Affairs Canada remains at orange (avoid nonessential travel).
AIR TRAFFIC
Global air passenger demand has dropped as ongoing conflict in the Middle East sharply impacted regional carriers and weighed on worldwide traffic figures. Excluding the Middle East, however, global demand would have increased 1.2%. According to IATA, total global demand fell 3.4% year over year in April, while total capacity declined 2.9%. International demand declined 5.3%, while domestic demand remained flat. “Forward schedule data is showing a reduced offering in the coming months, indicating that airlines are balancing high fuel costs and weaker demand,” said IATA’s Willie Walsh.
AIRPORT TAKEOVERS
Ontario aims to designate Toronto’s island airport as a socalled special economic zone in an effort to fast track its expansion now that the province has taken over the land, said Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria. The province passed into law a bill that allows it to take over all the land on the Toronto Islands where Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is located. The province has said it will not take over the entirety of the Toronto Islands despite the language in the legislation, and will work with the city to only use the land needed to make the airport bigger.
DATA BREACH
Carnival Corporation says it is taking steps to further safeguard its systems, in the wake of a data breach reportedly impacting some six million passenger accounts. So far the impacted data is known to include passenger names, their address, email address, phone number, date of birth, and government-issued identification numbers (including driver’s license number and passport number). According to reports, the breached data came from Holland America Line’s Mariner Society past-passenger loyalty program. Carnival Corp. is send out notification letters via email, “as required and where available.”
Overseas travel still gaining ground
as Canadians continue to rethink the U.S., says Signal49’s Hendry
TORONTO — Canadians’ appetite for travel remains remarkably resilient, but where they’re choosing to go is changing rapidly, according to new research from Signal49 Research.
Speaking at the recent Discover America Canada meet-up, Jennifer Hendry, Senior Research Associate at Signal49 (known for decades as the Conference Board of Canada), outlined how geopolitical tensions, economic considerations and evolving traveller preferences continue to reshape Canadian outbound travel patterns, particularly when it comes to the United States.
“I’ve been analyzing travel data for 25 years and while a lot has changed over that time, one thing remains the same: tourism’s ability to endure,” Hendry said. “No matter what shock is thrown at the sector, Canadians have a deep and lasting passion for travel and that makes the industry very resilient.”
OVERSEAS TRAVEL GAINS MARKET SHARE
Canadian outbound travel fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels in 2024, reaching 33 million overnight outbound trips, matching 2019 volumes.
However, the composition of that travel has shifted significantly.
While outbound travel totalled 30 million overnight trips in 2025, down 9% overall year over year, the decline was concentrated entirely within the transborder market.
U.S.-bound overnight travel dropped 21% last year, while overseas travel increased 10%.
“The important thing to note is that Canadians are still travelling in very large numbers,” said Hendry. “What changed is where they went.”
As a result, overseas destinations accounted for 47% of total outbound travel in 2025, up sharply from 39% the previous year.
Hendry noted that December 2025 marked a particularly significant milestone. “For the first time ever outside of the pandemic period, the share of overseas travel exceeded transborder travel in a single month,” she said. “The shift is real and it’s significant.”
DESTINATIONS THAT ARE SURGING
The strongest gains in overseas demand were seen across Europe, Asia Pacific and alternative sun destinations.
According to Hendry, Canadians increasingly sought out emerging European destinations such as Cyprus, Norway and Finland, while Japan, the Philippines and Hong Kong recorded strong growth in the Asia Pacific region.
Even amid operational and geopolitical challenges affecting some traditional winter destinations, Canadians continued travelling abroad.
“Despite the fuel crisis in Cuba, violence concerns in Mexico and unrest affecting parts of the
Costa Rica, Belize, Thailand and Indonesia all benefitted from shifting demand as travellers looked beyond more traditional vacation markets.
First-quarter data from 2026 continued to reinforce the trend. Overnight U.S. travel declined 14% year over year, with auto travel down 18% and non-auto travel falling 12%. At the same time, overnight travel to non-U.S. destinations increased 7%.
ECONOMIC CONFIDENCE IMPROVES
While affordability concerns and global uncertainty continue to influence travel planning, Hendry said Canadian consumer confidence has begun stabilizing.
According to Signal49’s latest survey data, 68% of Canadians reported their finances were the same or better than six months ago, while 75% expected to remain financially stable or improve over the next six months.
“Global uncertainty and economic conditions are increasingly becoming more of a background concern,” Hendry said. “Canadians are beginning to feel more financially stable again.”
Travel intent also remains consistently strong. Seventy per cent of Canadians surveyed said they plan to take a leisure trip this summer, while outbound travel intent rose to 29%, up from 25% last year.
CANADIANS ARE STILL TRAVELLING IN VERY LARGE NUMBERS
Safe, culture-rich and welcoming: Hawaii is still winning Canadian hearts
BY KIM PEMBERTON
While Canadian visitation to Hawaii has declined, the 50th state has fared better than the continental U.S., a difference many tourism experts attribute to Hawaii’s unique appeal. While Canadian travel to the continental U.S. is down 20-25% amid crossborder tensions, travel to Hawaii fell only 11.6% in 2025, according to data from the Hawai’i Tourism Authority.
In Kauai, for instance, visits from Canadians numbered 43,222 for 2025, down slightly from the year previously at 46,091. And in Maui in 2025 there were 155,324 Canadians who visited, down from 166,125 in 2024.
Canada is the second-largest international market for the Hawaiian Islands.
Possible reasons for the drop in Canadian visitation include a boycott by some Canadians in response to U.S. tariffs and threats to Canada’s sovereignty, but other factors include the two KONA low storms
that brought heavy, flooding rains to some parts of the Hawaiian Islands in March, and a perception by some after the 2023 tragic Lahaina fire that Maui was closed.
“We’ve gone through a lot. First COVID, then the fire, then they hear Maui is under flood waters because of all the heavy rains,” said Sherry Duong, executive director of the Maui Visitors and Convention Bureau. “But the storm is over and the positive is everything is so green and lush looking right now. It’s ready for everyone to come back and enjoy that beauty.”
Regarding the Lahaina fires, Duong said the town is starting to rebuild residences and the port has now reopened. However, she said, it could be another five to seven years before the town’s downtown is rebuilt.
“The town is still closed and there will be a discussion for the community to have as to what they see is their vision to having it rebuilt. For now, many of the businesses that were there have relocated to other parts of the island.”
Kauai Visitor’s Bureau island director Samira Siale said winter continues to be the most popular time for Canadians to visit Hawaii as a winter getaway.
The Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort has experienced “a small decline in Canadian visitation,” said Ana Macario, Waimea Canyon director of leisure sales. She attributes the drop to the “current political climate” but she also agrees there’s something about Hawaii that keeps most visitors coming back.
“Hawaii sets itself apart from the other states. We value the environment, are family oriented and want to make memorable experiences for our guests while they are here.”
Travelweek joined a week-long Maui and Kauai FAM trip, hosted by Hawai’i Tourism Canada (represented in Canada by VoX International), with a group of Western Canada-based travel advisors. For trade resources, the Hawaii Destination Specialist program and more check out agents.GoHawaii.com.
Polynesian storytelling, live music and hula dancing are all part of The Feast at Mokapu Luau at Andaz Maui Resort
Ready for a coffee tasting at Kauai Coffee Plantation
WestJet consolidates flights, cuts capacity by 3% for July and August
CALGARY — WestJet Group has announced additional updates to its network and operational procedures as it navigates the global jet fuel supply crisis.
WestJet continues to consolidate flights on lower demand routes, and will reduce flying by approximately 3% in July and August.
The company says impacted guests will be provided with alternate flight options, often within the same day.
Travel periods for seasonal offerings throughout the summer will be adjusted.
Global supply challenges continue to influence fuel pricing, and WestJet says it remains focused on balancing these cost pressures, while managing near- and longer-term impacts, with cost management and network optimization.
WestJet is also implementing fuel efficiency procedures with Required Navigation Performance (RNP) adjustments, taxiing on the ground
WestJet recently touched down in Cardiff, Wales with its inaugural flight to the UK city from Toronto. After the WestJet Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft landed at Cardiff Airport, it was showered with the traditional water cannon salute to add to the show. Seen here at arrival are (l-r) Wayne Harvey, Chair of Cardiff Airport; Adam Price MS, Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy; Chris White-DeVries, WestJet’s Senior Manager Hub Strategy and Airport Affairs; Jon Bridge, Chief Executive Officer of Cardiff Airport (photo credit Nick Morrish)
using a single engine versus two, if conditions permit and when safe to do so; and increased use of more efficient ground power and ground air units while parked at serviceable airport bridges, reducing the use of the Aircraft Power Unit.
“WestJet is sincerely grateful to its guests during these challenging cost pressures and remains focused on providing friendly and reliable air travel,” says the company.
Airlines in Canada and around the world are cutting capacity, adding fuel surcharges and hiking baggage fees amid the crisis. Earlier this spring WestJet announced capacity reductions by 1% in April, 3% in May and nearly 6% in June, as well as a surcharge for select bookings, and increased baggage fees.
Air Transat’s nonstop Montreal-Istanbul service starts Oct. 29
MONTREAL — Air Transat is launching a new nonstop route between Montreal and Istanbul, starting Oct. 29.
Operated year-round on an Airbus A330, the service will run twice weekly, on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Flights are now available for booking.
Combined with Air Transat’s three weekly flights to Istanbul from Toronto, travellers from across Canada will now have access to up to five weekly flights to Istanbul.
“Expanding our program from our hometown is great news for Quebecers and the local business community,” said Sebastian Ponce, Chief Revenue Officer at Transat.
“Through our partnership with Turkish Airlines, Istanbul becomes much more than a destination, it’s a gateway to one of the most diverse global networks, spanning the Middle East, Asia, Africa and the Caucasus. Our customers can book a single ticket to dozens of destinations beyond Istanbul, all while enjoying Air Transat’s quality of service.”
Launched in 2025, the TorontoIstanbul route quickly demonstrated strong Canadian demand for travel to Türkiye and beyond, added Ponce.
TIME FOR SOMETHING UTTERLY UNIQUE.
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Silversea unveils revitalized Silver Spirit with expanded S.A.L.T. experience
Silversea has completed a major revitalization of Silver Spirit, introducing the cruise line’s awardwinning S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program onboard alongside a new lifestyle-focused poolside concept and refreshed public spaces.
The enhancements follow the ship’s recent dry dock and are designed to further position Silver Spirit as a destination-driven luxury cruise option for travellers sailing in Northern Europe and beyond.
At the centre of the refurbishment is the debut of Silversea’s S.A.L.T. programme onboard Silver Spirit. Designed to connect guests more deeply with the destinations they visit through food and drink, the concept incorporates regional storytelling and immersive culinary experiences throughout the voyage.
Guests can explore destination-inspired menus at S.A.L.T. Kitchen, sample local spirits and cocktails at S.A.L.T. Bar and participate in hands-on culinary workshops at S.A.L.T. Lab, where classes focus on regional traditions and techniques.
“The completion of Silver Spirit’s revitalization marks an important milestone for our fleet,” said Bert Hernandez, president, Silversea. “We’ve thoughtfully reimagined the onboard experience to blend relaxed sophistication with immersive dining and destination-led discovery, creating meaningful moments for our guests from morning through evening.”
Alongside the culinary enhancements, Silversea has introduced Riviera, a new Mediterranean-inspired
poolside venue designed to evolve throughout the day from wellness-focused mornings to more social evening experiences. The new concept features all-day casual dining, lighter fare and international dishes, paired with a beverage program that includes spritzes, curated wines, Champagne and low- and no-alcohol options.
Silver Spirit’s outdoor spaces have also been upgraded with new loungers, daybeds and shaded seating areas. Additional features include expanded wellness and fitness programming, a golf putting green and simulation experiences aimed at travellers seeking more active onboard offerings.
Elsewhere onboard, the Venetian Lounge has been refreshed with updated design elements and a new LED wall intended to enhance entertainment programming.
Now sailing through Northern Europe, Silver Spirit is operating itineraries featuring the Norwegian fjords, British Isles and Western Europe. According to the cruise line, the voyages combine marquee destinations with lesser-visited ports, cultural experiences and extended stays.
Later this year, the ship is scheduled to embark on a 50day Grand Voyage Mediterranean itinerary visiting 40 destinations across 12 countries. Planned experiences include private cultural events and behind-the-scenes access to historic landmarks.
For more information, go to silversea.com.
The Bahamas tests digital arrival card as cruise investment accelerates
TORONTO — The Bahamas is moving forward with a series of tourism initiatives this season, including the pilot launch of a new digital arrival system for international visitors.
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation has begun testing its new Bahamas Digital Arrival Card (BDAC), the first phase in what officials describe as a transition toward a fully digital arrival process for visitors entering the country.
Currently being piloted on select flights, the platform enables travellers to complete immigration and customs forms online before arrival, reducing the need for paper documentation and helping streamline airport processing.
“This pilot reflects years of deliberate planning and collaboration across the government,” said Latia Duncombe, Director General of The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. “Our goal is to ensure that this platform enhances the
visitor journey from the very first touchpoint.”
The rollout comes as The Bahamas reports continued tourism growth, welcoming nearly 12.5 million international visitors in 2025, the highest annual total in the destination’s history.
CRUISE INVESTMENT
In addition to the BDAC, The Bahamas is also investing heavily in the cruise sector, expanding infrastructure across several islands.
Among the largest projects announced is a planned US$450 million cruise terminal development from MSC Cruises in Freeport, Grand Bahama. The project will include new cruise berths as well as retail, dining and entertainment facilities.
Meanwhile, Royal Caribbean continues to expand its beach club offerings in Nassau through Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, which opened in late 2025. The development includes pools, beaches, dining venues and entertainment spaces.
Norwegian Cruise Line has also introduced new features at Great Stirrup Cay, including the 1.4-acre Great Life Lagoon.
Porter Airlines removes YHU-YQB from its schedule
TORONTO — Porter Airlines has removed one of its new Montreal Metropolitan Airport routes from its schedule.
Known as MET, but officially YHU, Montreal Metropolitan Airport will offer more than 10 new routes with launch carrier Porter starting June 15. Located in Longueuil, MET (formerly Saint-Hubert Airport, and debuted to media and industry partners in mid-March) will become the cornerstone of Porter’s development in Eastern Canada.
Porter has removed the mid-June launch of its Quebec City flights from YHU. The flights were scheduled to operate once daily.
Brad Cicero, Porter’s Director, Communications and Public Affairs, confirmed the change to Travelweek.
“That’s correct. We simply decided to serve this route via our Pascan partnership for now. They already fly YQB-YHU and passengers can purchase tickets, including connecting flights, through our interline agreement,” he said.
Cicero added: “We will reconsider introducing dedicated Porter flights in the future. Overall, a substantial amount of new service starts this June at MET, with 11 routes coming online. We are also evaluating additional routes at the airport.”
With the update Porter’s 11 routes launching this month from YHU are: St. John’s (seasonal), Toronto City, Toronto Pearson and Vancouver (all launching June 15), Edmonton (June 16), Calgary and Halifax (June 17), Charlottetown and Winnipeg (June 18, both seasonal), Moncton (June 19, seasonal) and Hamilton (June 22).
Nassau Cruise Port
Travel advisors drive Collette’s growth in Canada, say Leibl-Côté
& Lonsdale
BURLINGTON — Collette doubled down on its commitment to the Canadian travel trade at its Travel Advisor Appreciation Party, where company executives highlighted the growing importance of advisors, evolving touring trends and the strength of the Canadian market.
The evening brought together travel advisors for cocktails, networking and conversations with senior leadership, including Christian LeiblCôté, EVP, Global Sales, and Ron Lonsdale, VP, Canada.
Leibl-Côté emphasized that the trade remains central to Collette’s business model and long-term strategy.
“Travel advisors, they’re such a key part of our business and our future,” said Leibl-Côté. “This is all about celebrating agents and everything they do.”
He credited Lonsdale and the Canadian team for building strong advisor relationships across the country, adding that Canada continues to outperform other markets for agency-driven business.
“The majority of our business is through travel advisors. It’s not even close,” he said. “And Canada is probably the highest of all our markets.”
FASTEST-GROWING MARKET FOR THREE YEARS RUNNING
According to Leibl-Côté, Canada has been Collette’s fastest-growing market for three consecutive years, fuelled by strong advisor partnerships and changes in consumer travel preferences following the pandemic.
“Prior to COVID it was all about, let me be in five or six countries
in 10 days,” he said. “Now it’s all about slowing the pace, being with the locals.”
Leibl-Côté said Collette has reimagined its itineraries to focus on immersive experiences and more efficient transportation. He pointed to England as an example, where highspeed rail has replaced long coach journeys between destinations such as York and London.
“Those are the kinds of things we’re always looking for,” he said. “And those are the things travel advisors are noticing.”
He also highlighted the company’s investment in destination-based product designers who seek out unique local experiences for travellers.
SOARING DEMAND FOR SMALL-GROUP TOURS
Small-group touring has become one of the company’s fastest-growing segments, according to Leibl-Côté. Collette’s Small Group Explorations product line has expanded significantly, growing from 19 tours in 2019 to a projected 63 tours for 2027.
“Small group touring is extremely hot,” he said. “It continues to grow for us, in very high double-digit numbers.”
Collette is also investing heavily in advisor education and first-hand
product experience. In 2025, the company hosted a record 1,100 travel advisors on its tours through deeply discounted travel advisor rates.
ADVISOR TRAINING & TOOLS
Lonsdale said supporting advisors with training, sales tools and transparency remains a top priority for the company.
“The advisor is looking at their book of business and thinking about how touring fits their clients’ needs,” said Lonsdale. “We’re providing more efficient tools and resources to help overcome the stereotypes and misperceptions.”
Those resources include Collette’s educational modules and marketing tools designed to help advisors confidently sell guided touring.
Lonsdale also pointed to Collette’s loyalty program as a key go-to. “We have a robust loyalty program where 5% of the land cost is a future travel credit. So travel advisors can go on our agent portal, create a message and send it to their client. We’re helping them create sales. Everything is agent friendly and very transparent. And any communication to guests, the agent is well aware of what we’re doing. We’re in it together. And I think that’s how we’ve built that trust and confidence with travel advisors.”
Collette’s Ron Lonsdale, VP, Canada and Christian Leibl-Côté, EVP, Global Sales
The Caribbean’s best-value all-inclusive vacation is closer than they think. Sandals® Resorts was born in Jamaica over forty years ago. Since then, we’ve pioneered the region’s allinclusive experience, raising the bar throughout the decades and building our reputation as all-inclusive experts. Across every stage of growth, we’ve stayed true to our founder’s vision: looking after each other, our guests, and the islands we call home.
Here, all-inclusive means your clients can go all in on the best the Caribbean has to offer. When it comes to dining, that covers every savory style. Buccan brings the fire with meats and island ingredients cooked slowly over open flames. And our famous Jerk Shack brings the heat with authentic island spice. From top-shelf spirits to freshly brewed Blūm Coffee out of Jamaica’s Blue Mountains, it’s all included — and always authentically Caribbean.
With eighteen resorts across eight destinations, there’s a Sandals to fit every travel style. Jamaica’s lush north coast, Saint Lucia’s soaring mountains, Antigua’s tranquil coves, Curaçao’s vibrant reefs, and the unspoiled shores of Saint Vincent and The Grenadines — each location has been handselected for its natural beauty.
We give your clients the best of everything to choose from — pickleball at sunrise, Hobie Cat adventures, even earning a PADI® scuba diving certification before unwinding with a cocktail at sunset. Or they can simply do nothing at all. Maybe that’s relaxing in a Vincy Two-Story Overwater Villa or in a Tufa Terrace Skypool Suite at Sandals Dunn’s River, where a private infinity-edge pool invites a late-night swim. Rondoval Suites, butler service, and outdoor soaking tubs for two redefine what all-inclusive luxury really means.
Most of all, our difference lies in our people. Over 18,000 Caribbean Insiders welcome every guest with warmth and make every stay feel like home. For four decades, their spirit has defined who we are and why guests return year after year. Because when everything’s included, your clients are free to sink into island time — completely. Plan your client’s escape and discover the best value in the Caribbean.
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HKTB’s new director, Canada has her own Hong Kong favourites
TORONTO — The Hong Kong Tourism Board’s new Director for Canada, Beverly Cheng, is ready to take visitation from this market from strength to strength.
She’s got a great foundation to go on, with 360,000 Canadians heading to Hong Kong in 2025. That’s a 13% year over year increase.
Introduced to trade media and partners recently at a beautifully presented dim sum afternoon tea at Lee Wah Heen in downtown Toronto, Cheng said her new role at the HKTB is “deeply meaningful” for her.
Born in Hong Kong, she emigrated to Toronto when she was four years old, and grew up here. “My family is from Hong Kong and I’ve developed my own connection to the city, living and working there for 10 years,” she said.
In her new role, first announced last month, Cheng will focus on strengthening partnerships and delivering campaigns that inspire Canadians to experience Hong Kong.
Her professional background includes senior communications roles with global hospitality brands including Marriott International, where she led communications for a portfolio of 16 hotel brands across Asia Pacific.
Most recently, she served as Head of Marketing, Communications and Visitor Experience at The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery in Toronto.
Her connection to the arts explains why one of her own personal favourite spots in Hong Kong, as she shared with Travelweek, is M+, Hong Kong’s Museum of Contemporary Art. “It’s in West Kowloon, and it’s outstanding,” she said. “And it’s part of WestK, the West Kowloon Cultural District redevelopment with parks, shops, dining and more.”
Another of Cheng’s hidden gems in the city? The green space, calm and serene beauty of Chi Lin Nunnery. “The nunnery dates back to the Tang Dynasty, and it’s literally smack dab in the middle of busy Kowloon,” she says.
She’s also a fan of the Tai Tau Chau Coastal Trail, the main beach trail head at Shek O.
Jorge Lee, Sr. Manager, Marketing and PR for the HKTB, said the Toronto office is “very excited to have Beverly onboard. She brings a lot of experience in destination branding, arts and culture.”
Hong Kong is currently one of the top three destinations in Asia for growth from Canada, he noted.
Cheng and Lee were joined by Yuen Kan Wong, Sr. Manager, Trade Marketing, and Carol Lam, Manager, Marketing & PR at the event.
“Having seasoned team members who are so passionate about their work is a gift,” said Cheng.
The HKTB’s Jorge Lee, Sr. Manager, Marketing and PR; Beverly Cheng, Director for Canada; Carol Lam, Manager, Marketing & PR; Yuen Kan Wong, Sr. Manager, Trade Marketing at Lee Wan Heen in Toronto
Celestyal cancels Arabian Gulf season, expands Med deployment
TORONTO — Celestyal is cancelling its Arabian Gulf season for winter 2026-27 as the cruise line shifts its focus toward an expanded Med deployment, including additional Eastern Med sailings and a new Western Med program.
The company confirmed that instead of operating in the Arabian Gulf next winter, it will extend its existing Mediterranean season across its two-ship fleet.
Under the revised deployment, the 1,360-guest Celestyal Discovery will operate two additional ‘Iconic Greek Islands’ sailings in November 2026, followed by four more departures in March 2027.
Meanwhile, the 1,260-guest Celestyal Journey will add four sailings in March 2027, including two ‘Heavenly Greece, Italy and Croatia’ itineraries and two ‘Idyllic Greece’ departures focused on both well-known and lesser-visited Greek islands.
The line also revealed plans to introduce a new Western Mediterranean itinerary aboard Celestyal Discovery for both the winter 2026-27 and winter 202728 seasons. Additional itinerary details and pricing are expected to be announced soon, with bookings scheduled to open June 15.
Further information regarding winter 2027-28 plans for Celestyal Journey will also be released at a later date.
“Following a review of our winter deployment, we have decided to focus on strengthening our authentically Mediterranean offering.
TRAVEL ADVISORS HAVE RECEIVED UPDATED INFO TO ASSIST WITH CELESTYAL REBOOKINGS
Executives with Air Canada, WestJet, Air Transat and Iberia were granted a royal audience recently with His Majesty King Felipe VI of Spain –appropriately enough, at the Fairmont Royal York. Spain’s Isabel Martín Benítez, Consul for Tourism Affairs in Canada (Spain Tourism Office in Canada) organized the meet-up, aimed at highlighting the increased connectivity between Spain and Canada.
As a brand rooted in the region, these updates allow us to add more choice across some of our most popular itineraries and introduce brand new Western Mediterranean sailings for the first time,” said Lee Haslett, Chief Commercial Officer at Celestyal.
The cruise line said travel advisors have already been notified of the changes and provided with updated information to assist with guest rebooking options. Celestyal is also promoting its Iconic Sale, available through June 30, designed to help off-set increased fares as demand grows.
ACTA unveils 2026-2027 Board
of Directors
TORONTO — ACTA has announced its 2026-2027 Board of Directors following its Annual General Meeting. The newly appointed Board includes representatives from across Canada, reflecting ACTA’s continued focus on national representation and industry leadership.
The 2026-2027 ACTA Board of Directors includes: Gary Gaudry, Atlantic Region – Treasurer; Serge H. Malaison, Québec – Secretary; Monica Johnstone, CTC, Ontario –Chair; Melanie Carter, CTM, Manitoba and Nunavut – Vice-Chair; Heather Calvert, Saskatchewan; Peter Keyter, Alberta and Northwest Territories; Mark Greenwood, British Columbia and Yukon; Brian Robertson, Director at Large; Zeina Gedeon, Director at Large; Rocky Racco, ACTA Appointed Director; Michael Johnson, ACTA Appointed Director; and Lyne Côté, ACTA Appointed Director.
The Board also elected its Executive Committee for the 2026-2027 term, consisting of Monica Johnstone as Chair, Melanie Carter as Vice-Chair, Gary Gaudry as Treasurer and Serge H. Malaison as Secretary.
Looking ahead, the Board of Directors is scheduled to meet in June 2026 for strategic planning discussions focused on establishing ACTA’s 2027-2029 priorities, organizational objectives and future initiatives aimed at supporting ACTA members and advancing the travel advisor community across Canada.
Jordan Tourism Board appoints North American representation partner
NEW YORK — The Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) has appointed Trove Tourism Development Advisors as its market-based representation partner across the United States, Canada and Mexico, marking a new unified approach to its North American tourism strategy.
Under the mandate, Trove Tourism Development Advisors will lead travel
trade engagement, media relations and market development efforts across all three markets, working in close collaboration with TM Americas.
Headquartered in New York City, Trove Tourism Development Advisors is a tourism marketing agency focused exclusively on destination marketing organizations, with experience in destination promotion and trade representation across North America.
The agency will oversee trade, consumer and media relations as part of its new role representing Jordan.
The partnership will also see Trove work alongside TM Americas, which operates offices in Orlando, Toronto and Mexico City. According to the two agencies, the collaboration builds on an established track record of joint destination representation and is designed to strengthen distribution while expanding access to new trade channels and consumer segments.
Together, the partners will support Jordan Tourism Board’s objective of positioning the destination as a yearround standalone travel experience for North American travellers.
Activities will include travel trade engagement, media relations, press trips, co-operative campaigns with tour operators and airline partners, FAM trips, travel agent training and ongoing market intelligence across the region.
“Jordan is a place of extraordinary history, culture, and natural beauty, and we are excited to further grow the brand across North America,” said Danny Cohanpour, CEO and Founder of Trove Tourism Development Advisors. “We are honored to take on this mandate, to work alongside our partner TM Americas, and to drive real results for the Jordan Tourism Board and its trade and media partners across the region.”
Petra, Jordan
Seoul to Jeju: KTO highlights luxury travel experiences
TORONTO — The Korea Tourism Organization’s ‘Luxury Korea’ destination lunch seminar at JOEY Eaton Centre in Toronto showcased the country’s growing appeal as a high-end travel destination.
Travel advisors and industry guests heard about Korea’s blend of luxury hospitality, cultural heritage, wellness experiences and contemporary art, with presentations focusing on upscale accommodations and immersive travel experiences across Seoul, Busan, Jeju Island and Incheon.
Presenters included the KTO’s Toronto office’s Hillary Nguyen, Marketing Manager, and Lainey Lee, Marketing Coordinator.
Among the featured properties, The Shilla Seoul was described as one of Korea’s flagship luxury hotels, and a longtime favourite for international visitors. The hotel’s outdoor pool overlooks Seoul’s iconic Namsan Tower, making a dip here one of the city’s signature experiences.
THE
through traditional architecture and hospitality.
In Busan, Paradise Hotel Busan was showcased as one of the city’s leading beachfront luxury resorts, known for its ocean views, premium spa facilities and resort-style atmosphere.
SHILLA SEOUL IS A HIGH-END FAVOURITE FOR INTERNATIONAL VISITORS
For travellers seeking a more traditional stay, there’s Rakkojae Seoul, an intimate hanok-style property located in Seoul’s Bukchon neighbourhood. The boutique hotel offers guests a private and authentic Korean cultural experience
The seminar also spotlighted emerging luxury destinations beyond Seoul. Jeju Island can be an ideal retreat for travellers seeking rest and relaxation, and Podo Hotel, a remote luxury property, is known far and wide by fans of PINX golf club.
Meanwhile demand for Incheon, less than an hour outside of Seoul, is on the rise thanks to INSPIRE, a newly developed resort complex featuring luxury accommodation, shopping, a casino and large-scale K-pop concert events.
In addition to hospitality offerings, the event emphasized Korea’s vibrant arts and cultural scene. Changdeokgung Palace in Seoul has its famed Secret Garden, while the Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a modern creative hub featuring art installations, fashion programming and popular night markets.
Further south, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Busan is famous for its exterior living art installation, ‘Vertical Garden’, by French botanist and artist Patrick Blanc, as well as for its extensive collection of modern works.
See VisitKorea.or.kr for more information.
The KTO’s Toronto office’s Hillary Nguyen, Marketing Manager, and Lainey Lee, Marketing Coordinator
WestJet adds HTS’ Cancel
For
Any Reason
to boost flexibility
MONTREAL — WestJet has introduced a new flexible booking option through a partnership with Hopper Technology Solutions (HTS), launching the company’s Cancel For Any Reason ancillary product across WestJet.com and the WestJet app.
The product allows guests to cancel their flight up to 24 hours prior to departure and receive a refund percentage of their trip cost back to their original form of payment, with no questions asked. At the time of booking, travellers can opt in for either an 80% or 100%refund, with
the add-on integrated directly into the WestJet booking flow.
“We know travel plans can change, and we want guests to have the option to make those changes with total confidence, no matter the reason,” said Jorge Rozo, WestJet Deputy Chief Commercial Officer and Senior Vice-President, Revenue and Distribution.
HTS positioned the product as part of its broader travel fintech offering aimed at addressing common pain points in air travel, particularly around flexibility and disruption management.
“We developed HTS’ travel fintech products to help airlines tackle travellers’ biggest pain points, like flexibility and disruptions,”
said Ella Alkalay Schreiber, SVP & GM of Fintech at HTS. “Cancel for Any Reason is one of our most powerful products – it increases booking conversion, drives ancillary revenue, and builds lasting trust with travellers.”
For WestJet, the product will be available for purchase at the time of booking on Econo and EconoFlex fares. Pricing will vary depending on fare type, origin, destination, travel dates and number of guests on the booking.
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