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Yes, you can sell Japan, and here’s why your clients will thank you for it
BY KATHRYN FOLLIOTT
TORONTO Think you can’t sell Japan? Two top-performing travel advisors say they’ve found success positioning Japan as a destination for just about every type of traveller.
Simply put, if you have clients, you almost certainly have Japan clients.
And that’s good news given the country’s value proposition for Canadian travellers – not to mention Canadians’ willingness to trying new destinations these days.
As for Japan’s soaring popularity – and reports of tour guide shortages and other challenges – the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) has tips about that and much more.
“YOU
CAN’T GO WRONG WITH A SMALL GROUP ADVENTURE TOUR”
Stephen Brunetta, an Envoyage travel advisor and travel manager in North Vancouver, says he typically gets two Japan enquiries every quarter, and sells 7-8 Japan trips per year, making it a high conversion destination.
Whether it’s seniors coach bus tours during cherry blossom season, solo female travellers on a foodie mission, families with grade schoolaged kids travelling to FIT over spring break, young couples on small group adventure tours, or guys’ ski trips, you name it, Brunetta has booked it to Japan.
“The world seems to get smaller and more connected with each passing year,” he tells Travelweek.
His sales tips for travel advisors new to selling Japan include seeing the destination for themselves. His first trip to Japan was on G Adventures’ 9-day ‘Japan Express’ with a group of agents. “Experiencing the destination firsthand is always the best way to sell with confidence.”
Brunetta says he leaned heavily on tours in his early days, until he felt resourceful enough to build customized holidays. “You can’t go wrong with a 10-14 day small group adventure style tour with a few extra nights in Tokyo to explore on your own,” he says. “Share your clients’ enthusiasm, ask fellow agents for recommendations and throw in a unique excursion for your travellers.”
“KNOW THE COUNTRY WELL AND STAY UP TO DATE”
Ivy Lam, who heads up a Nexion travel agency called Travel Gaga based in Oakville, ON, started selling Japan when she became a travel agent eight years ago. She tells Travelweek her goal has been the same all these years: “I want people in North America to go see this beautiful country because it’s unique, it’s different and it’s an eye opening experience, in a good way.”
Lam says she makes 40-50 Japan bookings per year. Some 80% of her Japan-bound clients are families, plus another 10% in their 20s and 30s, and 10% are retired couples.
While she’s found there’s no set age group among her Japan clients, she does skew more high-end. She charges “a more than average fee” to help her travellers put together a custom FIT trip, based on her own years of knowledge, and without the use of tour operators.
Like Brunetta, Lam tells new-to-Japan agents that seeing the destination for themselves is a must. “Go there at least once because Japan is a very different country. It’s very hard to understand the culture and what you are selling if you have never been there.”
She also recommends the JNTO’s webinars for new local knowledge, and the Japan Travel Specialist program. “You need to know the country well and stay up to date. Even with a tour operator’s help to sell tours or packages, the client will need your help to prep their trip. They might ask, do I need an IC card for taking public transit? You need to know what’s out there and give them the correct answer.”
“A MUCH GREATER VALUE THAN EVEN FIVE YEARS AGO”
Priscilla Portsmouth, Senior Assistant Manager with the JNTO, says the number of Canadian visitors to
Japan has been sharply increasing since the country reopened after the pandemic. “In 2024, we closed with a record 579,445 Canadian visitors, up 36% from the 425,874 Canadians in 2023. And 2025 is on track to exceed last year’s numbers yet again.”
As for Japan’s value for Canadian travellers, “these days 1CAD = 102JPY, a much greater value than what it was even 4-5 years ago. It’s around a 30% increase in value compared to the usual rate, every time you buy with yen,” she says.
She adds that hotels have always been well-priced in Japan, “and that’s even more true with the recent hikes in Canada. A business hotel or bedand-breakfast generally runs from JPY5,000 to 10,000 (CAD$50-$100) per night. Higher level hotels and ryokan (Japanese traditional inns) will of course go for more than this, but there are also even cheaper options in the form of hostels and capsule hotels which can be as little as JPY2,000-4,000 ($20$40) per night.”
Flying halfway around the world does come with a price tag. Says Portsmouth: “Flights are definitely one of the biggest costs when it comes to a Japan trip. Keep an eye out for airline promotions and travel off-season where possible. Winter is low season in Japan, but that doesn’t mean you need to trade in Canada’s blustery temperatures for more of the same.
Japan’s climate varies wildly by region, and is temperate to downright subtropical the farther south you go. July and August are the peak of the hot and humid summer, but are an excellent time to visit cooler destinations on the Japan Sea side.”
She notes that since last September JAL has been offering complimentary domestic flights when passengers book an international flight to Japan from Canada. “This is a great way to save if you’re planning to stray away from the traditional Golden Route (Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka).”
Travelweek asked Portsmouth about challenges travellers are facing finding private guides, due to such strong demand for Japan.
“The guide shortage is two-fold,” she says. “On top of the increased demand in recent years, Japan was closed for a long time during COVID, and many guides moved on to other jobs during that time. Sadly, many did not return to the profession when Japan re-opened.”
There is good news, however. “The requirements to become a licensed guide in Japan are very stringent, and in previous years all interpreter guides needed to be licensed. However due to high demand, the law was amended so that even those without the license are allowed to provide guiding services.”
Got a story idea? Questions or comments? Write to Kathryn Folliott at kfolliott@travelweek.ca
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Travel advisors are an integral part of promoting and selling Japan. The JNTO hosts seminars and works hard to foster connections between retailers and a variety of sellers including local governments, hotels, tour operators and transportation companies.
“As a fairly complex destination, Japan can come across as rather intimidating, especially to first-time visitors, and this is where advisors really shine. Helping make sense of the multitude of options available to them – where to visit, where to stay, which trains to take – gives travellers that extra little boost of confidence to take the leap and book the trip,” says Portsmouth.
Brunetta says he feels the same way about Japan as he does about travelling on the European continent: “I could return every three years for the rest of my life and never get bored.”
He adds: “Years ago I remember hearing about how expensive Japan was, but I honestly find it more economical than Canada. Value aside, the number one reason any country wins someone over is its people. I have found Japanese locals to be so welcoming and respectful, the world would be a better place if every country embraced their tourists the way Japan treats international travellers.”
JTB and travel community lace up for 16th annual Jam-Walk 2025
BY ANNIE CICVARIC
TORONTO — A dreary sky quickly transformed into a delightful burst of sunshine, welcoming participants to the 16th annual Jam-Walk in Toronto this past weekend.
Held at the Palais Royale on the city’s waterfront, this annual 5km walk and brunch event, organized by the Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation (HHJF), drew over 100 participants.
Among them was a strong turnout from the travel trade community, who laced up their shoes to support and collaborate with the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) and other contributors, including Travelweek.
How enthusiastic are the advisors about this annual event? Very, said Angella Bennett, Regional Director for Canada for the Jamaica Tourist Board.
“Advisors are eager to check if the event website is up, when registration
opens, and they are forming groups for donations while also involving clients to raise awareness,” Bennett told Travelweek.
Marlene Peters from Exclusive Travel is one of these enthusiastic agents. As part of this year’s JTB team, Peters has participated in the event for the past four years.
Speaking to Travelweek, she expressed her passion for supporting HHJF and making a positive impact as her motivation for returning along with her travel colleagues year after year.
Cecilia Russell, a TTAND advisor now completing her fifth year, told Travelweek how she has taken extra measures by donating to HHJF with every Jamaica booking and raising awareness among her client base.
What initially started with five advisors quickly grew to 50, with Bennett referring to the travel community as the event “superstars.” She added: “Ten agents also participated in the school build in St. James last year, further connecting them to the community and giving back to the destination.”
The JTB has been a Jam-Walk event sponsor and maintained a strong presence for several years,
Held at the Palais Royale on Toronto’s waterfront, the 5km Jam-Walk and brunch event drew 100+ participants this year
Enthusiasm was high at the 16th annual Jam-Walk, organized by the Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation (HHJF) with sponsorship from the Jamaica Tourist Board
supporting educational initiatives for young people in Jamaica. Bennett is also an active HHFJ board member.
“HHJF is impacting the community and the community that needs it most,” said Bennett. “Many of these children will become tourism ambassadors for Jamaica. We are always grateful to be a part of this association and the incredible work they do on the island.”
HHJF NEW INITIATIVES
The foundation is excited to announce its plan for its 28th new school build in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, scheduled for January 2026. This initiative also coincides with the HHJF’s milestone 20th anniversary.
Additionally, a restoration project will run concurrently at an existing school, Park Mountain, which HHJF built initially in 2014.
As HHJF celebrates 20 years of transforming communities across Jamaica, there is still some availability to join them on the landmark 20th Anniversary Voluntourism Trip in Treasure Beach from Jan. 5-11, 2026. This unique opportunity will bring together over 50 passionate donors and supporters from North America to build a new school and create lasting change.
MORE LIFT, MORE OPTIONS
JTB has much to celebrate these days aside from its 70th milestone year showcasing its long-standing success and, most recently, the signing of the fastest man in the world, Usain Bolt, as Jamaica’s global ambassador.
Notably, Jamaica is becoming more accessible for winter 2025-2026, thanks to the launch of two new direct routes and increased flight
AGENTS HELPED WITH THE SCHOOL BUILD IN ST. JAMES, FURTHER
frequency on existing services at Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport (SIA).
Air Canada is expanding its footprint in Jamaica by launching new nonstop flights from Ottawa and Halifax. This makes Jamaica more accessible for travellers from Canada’s capital region and Atlantic provinces.
“We are excited to share that this winter, we are already up 12% in airlift,” says Bennett. “We have close to 35,000 additional air seats to last year, and we’re still building.”
With new hotel builds underway and older hotels under renovation, “Jamaica is poised for what’s coming next. From Canada, we are on point to our goal of 500,000 visitors,” added Bennett.
Travel advisors interested in supporting HHJF can obtain information on donations, the annual Jamrock gala or how to participate in the 20th anniversary volunteerism trip by visiting helpinghandsjamaica.com.
The JTB’s Judy Nash and Angella Bennett with Travelweek’s Annie Cicvaric
AIRLINES
Air Transat is boosting its annual transatlantic network by extending its routes to Bordeaux (BOD) and Valencia (VLC) for the winter of 2025-2026. Previously offered only during the summer, these routes –both exclusive to Air Transat – will now operate from February with a weekly nonstop A321LR flight from Montreal. “By expanding our presence in France and Spain during the winter, we are taking another step toward making our transatlantic program available year-round,” said Transat’s Chief Revenue Officer, Sebastian Ponce. The winter service to Bordeaux joins Air Transat’s to Lyon, Marseille and Nantes.
WestJet is expanding its codeshare partnerships with Air France and KLM, providing travellers with easier connections through Amsterdam and Paris. Passengers flying WestJet’s new route from Halifax to Amsterdam can connect beyond AMS to 14 destinations throughout KLM’s European network. Plus, WestJet passengers departing from Calgary, Halifax and St. John’s can access four additional European destinations via CDG. “These expanded partnerships provide WestJet guests with more options to explore 59 soughtafter European destinations this summer,” said WestJet.
DISRUPTIONS
With warmer than normal ocean waters, forecasters are expecting yet another unusually busy hurricane season for the Atlantic. But they don’t think it will be as chaotic as 2024. The 2025 forecast calls for 13 to 19 named storms, with six to 10 becoming hurricanes and three to five reaching major status with winds of more than 177 kph, according to the NOAA in the U.S. A normal season has 14 named storms, seven of which strengthen to hurricanes and three power up further to major hurricanes. Ocean warmth is not quite as high as last year’s off-the-charts heat.
CRUISE
Two more ships are on the way for MSC Cruises. The two brand new vessels, part of MSC’s World Class series, are now on the books with French ship builder Chantiers de l’Atlantique. Once delivered, the two new ships will bring the number of World Class ships in MSC Cruises’ fleet to six. The new ships will join MSC World Europa and MSC World America (already in service) along with MSC World Asia (coming in 2026) and MSC World Atlantic (coming in 2027). The two new ordered vessels – currently referred to as World Class 5 and 6 –will be delivered in 2029 and 2030.
Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, MSC Cruises; Marc Ferracci, France’s Minister for Industry and Energy; Laurent Castaing, GM, Chantiers de l’Atlantique
Price, inflation on the radar: Expedia Group’s Traveller Value Index 2025
SEATTLE Expedia Group says its Traveller Value Index 2025 shows significant shifts in how travellers are planning and booking their trips compared to previous years.
The company says this year’s findings highlight the growing influence of social media and the critical role of trust in travel decisions.
Canadians are notably more price-sensitive than their global counterparts. When it comes to booking values, price is a bigger factor for Canadians across all travel types.
A significant 60% of Canadians report that inflation is impacting their travel plans for the next 12 months, compared to the global average of 44%.
Globally, the Traveller Value Index 2025 research shows that travel remains a top priority, with 88% of global consumers in global markets surveyed planning a leisure trip in the next year, and 68% aiming to book international travel — up 19% since 2022.
The study surveyed 11,000 nationally representative adults aged 18+ across 11 key markets – Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, the UK, and the U.S –via an online survey Feb. 14 - March 3.
Other global stats from the survey included: over 60% of travellers now turn to social media for inspiration; 73% say influencer recommendations have influenced their booking decisions; younger travellers, particularly under 40, are
more heavily swayed by social media, with 84% reporting that influencer recommendations have impacted their booking choices.
The Traveller Value Index 2025 also shows that while price remains a key factor globally, with 58% of consumers expecting to be more price-conscious in the next 12 months, trust is just as vital. Sone threequarters of travellers says they’re willing to pay more for lodging with better reviews.
“In today’s climate of economic and geopolitical uncertainty, understanding how travellers’ plans, preferences, and values are shifting has never been more important. What’s clear from this year’s data is that, despite these changes, the desire to travel remains a fundamental part of everyone’s lives,” said Expedia Group’s CCO, Greg Schulze.
Air Canada kicks off Montreal-Naples route
MONTREAL Air Canada’s first-ever service to Naples is officially underway.
The airline’s newest international flight marks Air Canada’s fourth nonstop connection between Canada and Italy. The seasonal service operates from Montreal to Naples four times per week through late October.
Flights are operated on Air Canada’s flagship aircraft, the B787 Dreamliner.
UNDERSTANDING SHIFTING
PREFERENCES HAS NEVER BEEN MORE IMPORTANT
“We are thrilled to inaugurate new, non-stop service between Canada and Naples, a scenic new destination in Air Canada’s global network and our fourth in the Italian market. With the beauty of the Amalfi Coast or the ruins of Pompeii not far away, this new service from our growing transatlantic hub in Montréal will make it even easier for our customers to explore all that Naples and Southern Italy has to offer. This new route not only unites two great cities, but also further connects two great countries,” said Mark Galardo, Air Canada’s EVP & CCO.
Air Canada has served the Italian market since 2005. This summer, the airline will offer up to 39 weekly flights and over 13,000 weekly seats from Canada into Naples, Rome, Milan and Venice.
Air Canada now offers B787 Dreamliner service between Montreal and Naples
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas readies for August debut
MIAMI Royal Caribbean’s next Icon Class ship, Star of the Seas, is undergoing sea trials in the Baltic Sea, marking a major step toward its debut this August from Port Canaveral.
The ship’s team assesses everything from manoeuvrability in open water to engine performance, covering hundreds of nautical miles before Star of the Seas returns to the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland, for final outfitting.
Star of the Seas will deliver more Icon Class features first introduced by Icon of the Seas, including eight distinct neighbourhoods, a wide variety of dining and entertainment options, and family-friendly attractions such as record-breaking waterslides, seven unique pools and over 40 ways to dine, drink and be entertained.
When it launches in August 2025, Star of the Seas will operate sevennight Eastern or Western Caribbean itineraries, including calls to Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.
Qantas’ YVR-SYD service gets boost for early 2026
SYDNEY Qantas is adding more flights to its nonstop Vancouver - Sydney route for Canada’s winter season.
The airline is boosting service from three per week to daily, from Jan. 1 - 24, 2026, before adjusting to five flights per week from Jan. 25 - Feb. 8, 2026 and then tapering to four flights per week from Feb. 9 through March 2026.
Cam Wallace, CEO, Qantas International, said the increased flying over the Canadian winter season will boost available seats by 68% from January through March. All services will be operated with B787-9 aircraft.
“Just as Australians head to Canada for its spectacular ski conditions, it’s the perfect opportunity for Canadians to swap the snow for sunshine and explore Australia’s summer,” said Wallace.
“With these additional flights between Vancouver and Sydney, we’re giving Canadian customers more opportunities to experience everything the city and New South Wales have to offer - whether it’s relaxing on Bondi Beach, exploring the wineries in Southern Highlands, or discovering the stunning landscapes of the Blue Mountains, there is something for everyone,” he added.
Canadian travellers can fly through Sydney and connect onto Qantas’ domestic network, with more than 60 destinations across Australia.
Australian customers flying through Vancouver can connect onward throughout Canada thanks to Qantas’ partnership with WestJet offering one-stop connections to Calgary, Montreal, Toronto, Victoria and more.
Average annual lead-in fares for nonstop roundtrip flights from Vancouver to Sydney start from Cdn$1,929.
Qantas flights between Canada and Australia included checked baggage, premium inflight food and beverage, Aussie hospitality and more than 2,500 hours of inflight entertainment included as standard with every booking.
CANADIANS HAVE MORE OPPORTUNITIES TO EXPERIENCE EVERYTHING SYDNEY AND NSW HAVE TO OFFER
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas
Air Transat announces Medellín route via Cartagena from YYZ
MONTREAL Air Transat is flying further afield with the launch of a brand new route between Toronto (YYZ) and Medellín (MDE), via Cartagena (CTG).
The new twice-weekly service will connect Canadians with one of Colombia’s most mountainous cities, while also improving access to the popular destination of Cartagena. It will also add a frequency to the flight schedule to Cartagena from Toronto.
“Adding Medellín to our network reflects our desire to expand our network while meeting a real demand from our clients for both leisure travel and family reunions,” said Sebastian Ponce, Transat’s Chief Revenue Officer. “This expansion is in line with our strategy of targeted growth from Toronto, focusing on high-potential markets such as Colombia.”
Details of Air Transat’s full winter 2025-2026 program, including the start date of operations and the opening of sales, will be announced soon.
Uniglobe Travel (Canada) wraps 2025 Owners Retreat
TORONTO Uniglobe Travel (Canada) recently gathered agency owners from across the country for its 2025 Owners Retreat in Cancun.
The gathering took place earlier this month at Secrets The Vine. After a hiatus during the pandemic, the retreat has been reinstated as an annual event.
Sonia McKeon, Director of Marketing & Supplier Relations, Uniglobe Travel (Canada), says the retreat strengthened relationships, fostered networking with supplier sponsors and created deeper connections through informal social events and group dinners.
“Secrets The Vine hosted our group of owners at their beautiful resort. The retreat provided not
Greater Miami and Miami Beach welcomed a group of top-tier travel advisors from Toronto and Montreal on a recent FAM trip, hosted by the Greater Miami CVB, Sunny Isles Beach Tourism Council and Air Canada. Seen here, the group enjoys a tasty stop at Miami’s Museum of Ice Cream.
just a getaway, but also an uplifting environment for growth and collaboration, to build connections and share innovative ideas,” McKeon tells Travelweek. “Attendees left with a revitalized sense of motivation and camaraderie especially after enjoying the outstanding rooftop dinner at Breathless Cancun Soul which left a lasting impression. The enthusiasm for the 2026 retreat is on the rise.”
Jamie Milton, owner of Uniglobe Carefree in Saskatoon, was among the attendees for this year’s retreat.
Says Milton: ”The Uniglobe Travel Canada owners had an amazing time at our recent retreat at Secrets The Vine Cancun. From the beautiful setting, great company, quality time with suppliers and colleagues, to an exceptional dinner at Breathless Soul Resort, it was the perfect mix of idea sharing, relaxation, and unforgettable moments!”
Uniglobe Travel (Canada)’s 2025 Owners Retreat at Secrets The Vine Cancun
WestJet ramps up domestic routes out of YEG
EDMONTON WestJet is enhancing its domestic network from Edmonton with the return of nonstop service to Kamloops and the introduction of allnew service to Prince George, B.C.
Beginning the first week of July, WestJet Encore will operate both routes from YEG twice per week throughout the peak summer travel season onboard Dash 8-400 aircraft.
Edmonton-Kamloops will fly twice weekly starting July 6, while Edmonton-Prince George will fly twice weekly starting July 5.
“Restoring service to Kamloops and introducing service to Prince George is a direct reflection of Canadians’ interest in exploring their own backyard this summer,” said John Weatherill, WestJet’s EVP and CCO. “With more flights and more seats in key Western Canadian markets, we’re giving Canadians better access to the destinations they rely on for business, leisure and visiting loved ones.”
In addition to the new seasonal routes, WestJet has increased capacity on two other domestic routes from Edmonton.
This summer, the airline will offer twice weekly to Nanaimo starting July 5 on the B737, more than doubling seat capacity. It’s also offering 4x/weekly service between Yellowknife and Edmonton starting July 6 on the B737. Historically, both routes only operated on the Q400.
Collette shines spotlight on travel advisors with appreciation event
TORONTO Collette sales are soaring – and since 90%+ of Collette’s bookings come from travel advisors, it’s clear that agents deserve a big round of applause for all their hard work.
And that’s exactly what they got at Collette’s Agent Appreciation event in Toronto recently, with cocktails, prizes and heartfelt words of gratitude from the Collette team.
“We wanted to take this on the road to show you literally how grateful we are for you,” Kelsie Marchetti told agents at the Hotel X reception. Marchetti is Collette’s Virtual Training & Events Manager and based at the company’s HQ in Pawtucket, RI.
“You all turn dreams into memories,” she added.
Collette BDM Heidi Schnitker was also on hand. She told the crowd she looks forward to working with Collette’s travel advisor partners, and to their continued success.
BOOKINGS UP 28% YEAR OVER YEAR
Bookings are solid for Collette. Ron Lonsdale, Collette’s VP Canada, told Travelweek that bookings are up 28% year over year. “I think a lot of that has to do with our investment in technology, and Collette University, and how we excel at small group travel,” he said.
In September 2024 Collette launched its Encompass campaign, highlighting the tour operator’s self-service and learning tools.
The Travel Advisor Portal is a hub of customizable content, links and tools to help advisors sell, network and serve their clients.
Collette University is a library of quick, self-paced courses designed to help advisors grow their business and serve their clients.
With MyCollette, agents can take advantage of a self-service platform where they can view and manage their bookings in one place. And the Travel Advisor Resource Guide is a 76-page guide designed exclusively for advisors with resources to educate and foster growth.
Travel advisors can create their account and access all the tools in the Travel Advisor Portal by going to gocollette.com/travel-advisors.
“We want to make sure advisors feel supported and we’re doing that with the Travel Advisor Portal,” said Marchetti.
Collette’s Travel Protection Plan is also extraordinarily popular, both with travellers and travel advisors. When booking seats on tour, travellers have the option to add on Collette’s trip insurance, which allows them to receive a full refund if they cancel more than 24 hours ahead of their scheduled departure.
WE HEARD FROM ADVISORS LOUD AND CLEAR THAT THEY WANTED US TO KEEP IT, SO WE DID
As popular as the Travel Protection Plan is, perhaps even more popular – especially with travel advisors – is Collette’s Advanced Commission Program.
Launched during the pandemic in 2020 and made permanent in 2021, the program allows advisors to receive a portion of their full commission, based on the type of booking.
“We made lasting friendships during the pandemic,” both with consumers, and the retail travel trade, said Lonsdale.
Added Marchetti: “We heard from advisors loud and clear that they wanted us to keep it, so we did.”
Collette’s value proposition also includes 5% commission on air, good commission on extensions and the company’s private sedan service, included on all air-inclusive Collette tours to anywhere in the world.
Earlier this year Collette reported its best year ever in 2024, surpassing 2023. Demand surged for destinations including Africa, Greece and Argentina, with a marked increase in requests for small-group travel.
The small-group Explorations tours are Collette’s most popular travel style, with a maximum group size of 24.
While business is booming, the Collette team didn’t host its agent appreciation event to shine the spotlight on the 107-year old company. The evening was all about travel agents.
“The whole focus of this Agent Appreciation event is travel advisors,” said Lonsdale. “Travel advisors are an extension of our family and they play an integral role in Collette’s growth and expansion.”
Bookings open for VIVA Boutique, coming May 2026
DUSSELDORF The countdown is on for the debut of VIVA Cruises’ new luxury sub-brand, VIVA Boutique, which is now open for bookings.
First announced in October 2024, VIVA Boutique will officially launch in May 2026 with its first vessel, VIVA BEYOND. Based in Paris, the custom-designed ship will offer three exclusive Seine itineraries, including ‘In the Footsteps of Impressionism,’ which will include a private excursion to Auvers-sur-Oise, a serene artists’ village just outside of Paris.
VIVA BEYOND is tapped to be a standout in river cruising, with nearly 50% of accommodations designed as luxurious suites. Among them are 10 uniquely crafted Master Suites featuring panoramic views.
On the upcoming launch, Andrea Kruse, CEO of VIVA Cruises, said: “VIVA Boutique represents a bold evolution of our brand, offering travellers a more personalized, artfully designed way to explore Europe by river. VIVA BEYOND, with its generous suites and handpicked cultural moments, promises an unforgettable journey for our guests.”
Ron Lonsdale, VP Canada, Collette; Tara Stringer, Marlin Travel, Peterborough; Judith Coates, Wired for Travel, Toronto; Kelsie Marchetti, Virtual Training & Events Manager, Collette
VIVA Beyond
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We offer an industry–leading guide–to–guest ratio of 1:6.
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OFF–SHIP ADVENTURES
We offer the most off-ship excursions, from heli hiking to kayaking.
More connectivity to Cincy Region with YUL-CVG flight
CINCINNATI New nonstop daily service between Montreal and Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) is now available, enhancing connectivity between Canada and the Cincy Region.
Operated by Air Canada, the service provides Canadian travellers convenient access to the region’s diverse cultural attractions, culinary offerings and signature Midwestern hospitality, said Julie Calvert, President and CEO of Visit Cincy.
Flights depart Montreal at 6:10 p.m., arriving at CVG at 8:30 p.m. On the return leg, flights depart CVG at 1:15 p.m., arriving in Montreal at 3:30 p.m.
“The launch of this nonstop flight from Montreal to Cincinnati strengthens the Cincy Region’s international connectivity and reinforces our position as a welcoming destination for global travellers,” said Calvert. “We look forward to introducing more Canadian visitors to our dynamic neighbourhoods, thriving culinary scene, and world-class attractions.”
Julie Kirkpatrick, President and CEO of meetNKY, added: “We are thrilled to welcome even more Canadian travellers to the vibrant and unexpected Cincy Region with Air Canada’s expanded service.”
The new service enhances Air Canada’s presence in the region, joining the airline’s existing twicedaily flights between Toronto and Cincinnati.
“We are delighted to launch our Cincinnati to Montreal flights,” said Alexandre Lefevre, Air Canada’s VP, Network Planning, North America & Scheduling. “These daily flights complement our twice daily flights to Toronto, and our flights offer even more opportunities for people in Greater Cincinnati to visit Canada for business or for leisure.”
Grand Palladium Bávaro to reopen this December
PUNTA CANA Grand Palladium Bávaro Suites & Spa in Punta Cana has completed a top-tobottom renovation, reopening its doors this December with two new premium concepts.
Upon reopening its doors on Dec. 15, the resort – part of Palladium Hotel Group – will debut the recently launched Grand Palladium Select Collection and Family Selection at Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts.
Grand Palladium Select Collection, the brand’s premium offering, debuted earlier this year at Grand Palladium Select Costa Mujeres and Grand Palladium Select Palace Ibiza. The concept will debut at Grand Palladium Bávaro Suites & Spa as Grand Palladium Select Bávaro this December, and will also be joined by Grand Palladium Select White Sand in Riviera Maya.
Thanks to an investment of US$61.5 million, Grand Palladium Select Bávaro will feature completely renovated spaces, including the lobby, villas, rooms, restaurants and pools. There will also be high-end culinary offerings. Entertainment will be revamped with a dynamic schedule outside the Sunset Theatre, featuring themed parties like neon nights, rock nights and beach parties.
As part of the Grand Palladium Select Collection philosophy, guests will also have access to the facilities of other resorts within the complex: Grand Palladium Punta Cana Resort & Spa and Grand Palladium Palace Resort & Spa.
Previously only available in Cancun, Riviera Maya and Vallarta, the exclusive Family Selection at Grand Palladium Hotels & Resorts concept will debut in Punta Cana at Grand Palladium Bávaro Suites & Spa this December.
Cincinnati / Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
Arden to join Scenic Eclipse II for 2026 Med voyage
VANCOUVER Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours has announced a special 2026 sailing featuring celebrated Canadian singer and author Jann Arden, marking her sixth collaboration with the line.
Set to depart from Barcelona on May 15, 2026, the seven-day Mediterranean itinerary aboard the Scenic Eclipse II will combine ultra-luxury travel with exclusive entertainment and immersive cultural experiences along the French and Italian Rivieras.
Following a private welcome cocktail reception, guests will enjoy stops at Pampelonne Beach, a serene stretch of coastline near Saint-Tropez, followed by an overnight dock in the iconic port town itself. The timing of the sailing coincides with the Cannes Film Festival.
From there, the journey continues to the Italian coast, with visits to Portofino and Santa Margherita. Guests can expect to explore cobblestone streets, dine on freshly caught seafood and shop at upscale boutiques, all while surrounded by the timeless beauty of Ligurian seaside towns.
Throughout the journey, Arden will perform private concerts with her band and host an interactive Q&A session, personal meet-and-greet and photo opportunity.
Said Arden: “I’m very excited to, once again, be sailing on the amazing Scenic Eclipse luxury yacht. We will be visiting ports in the French Riviera and Portofino. This all-inclusive, exquisite meal and food package will leave you speechless!”
Arden also praised the ship itself, known for its technological and sustainable advancements.
“I care deeply about the world and sustainable travel. Scenic’s efforts to minimize the impact on the environments they sail in and their ethos to ‘Cherish the Planet’ is something that I will always get behind. From advanced wastewater treatment to the kind of fuel they consume, to a GPS dynamic positioning system so they don’t need to drop anchor, and sourcing locally –nothing is overlooked.”
Known as one of ‘The World’s First Discovery Yachts,’ Scenic Eclipse II offers guests oceanview verandah suites that include personal butler service, complimentary fine wines and premium spirits, world-class dining options, a spa, yoga studio and vitality pools. A maximum of 228 guests can sail aboard, offering an intimate experience.
Pricing for the seven-day Mediterranean voyage starts at $8,945 per person; reduced single supplements are available.
MB agent takes top prize in Travel Nevada Trailblazers contest
TORONTO There’s a lucky winner in the Travel Nevada Trailblazers contest.
Brittany Uskoski, a travel advisor with BCD Travel in Winnipeg, has won an unforgettable road trip adventure to discover the wonders of the Silver State firsthand.
Travel Nevada invited Canadian travel advisors to take part in the contest, hosted by Travelweek, through the month of April. Participants who completed all four components of the contest, including completing the Travel Nevada Trailblazers Certification program, gained invaluable knowledge about Nevada’s unique attractions. They were also entered for a chance to win an exclusive fam trip. The winner was selected from those that completed all components.
As the grand prize winner from Canada, Uskoski is joining travel advisors from other markets May 2631 to explore Northern Nevada.
“I love the open highway when it seems like it’s only you and the road in the world, and it’s all yours to explore!” says Uskoski.
Nevada is known as the ‘Road Trip Capital of the U.S.’, offering everything from the ‘Cowboy Corridor’ along I-80, to ‘Death Valley Rally’, ‘Rubies Route’ and ‘The Loneliest Road in America.’
Uskoski says The Loneliest Road might be her favourite, “but there are about nine more very close second favourites right behind it.”
Scenic Eclipse
She adds: “On one road, to be able to explore historical innovations like the charcoal ovens, ancient old cave paintings and petroglyphs, old-time saloons and road houses, and to ATV in sand dunes and relax in hot springs – all with the most breathtaking views of the horizon and stars without the noise and light pollution that we’ve all gotten so accustomed to – seems unbelievable. But also like something that my soul needs to experience.”
Nevada is a road trip enthusiast’s dream. The state has vast open spaces, with over 60 million acres of public lands and more than 3,400 miles of scenic byways and highways.
Up for a ghost town adventure? Explore over 600+ fascinating ghost towns, each with its own
unique history. Or discover largerthan-life art exhibits and oneof-a-kind attractions scattered throughout the state. And for diverse experiences, “from mild to wild, we have encounters for everyone,” promises Travel Nevada.
Nevada is also home to some of the best stargazing and darkest skies in North America.
The Travel Nevada Trailblazers contest may have closed, but travel advisors are welcome to learn all about the state through the Travel Nevada Trailblazers Certification program.
Elephant Rock, Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada
Registration opens for ACTA’s Fall Summits
TORONTO Registration has opened for ACTA’s Fall Summits, a series of one-day, in-person events that will bring together travel advisors, suppliers and industry leaders in key markets across Canada.
In addition to a full day of networking, education and inspiration, the Summits will also include a trade show featuring over 120 suppliers. New this year will be Breakfast Boardrooms, intimate educational sessions that include a full breakfast and presentations from select supplier partners. Registration for Breakfast Boardrooms will be on a first come, first serve basis; space
is limited, with priority given to those with CTC or CTM designation. Full details will be revealed closer to event dates.
ACTA Summits are complimentary for ACTA members; non-members will be asked to contribute $50 towards the Advocacy Fund.
Those who register early, by June 30, will be entered into a draw for a $250 Visa gift card. One lucky winner will be selected at each Summit.
Dates and venues are: ACTA Eastern Canada Travel Industry Summit, Sept. 11 at the Congress Centre, Etobicoke, ON; ACTA Western Canada Travel Industry Summit: Sept. 18, River Rock Casino Resort, Richmond, B.C.; and ACTA Quebec Travel Industry Summit, Oct. 1, Marriott Hotel Dorval.
SUMMITS WILL INCLUDE TRADE SHOWS WITH 120+ SUPPLIERS
I L™VE CONFERENCE
I had very focused questions... I truly feel like I have set plans in motion that will help me grow my business.
Karen Desanti, TTAND Agent Partner
I loved spending time with the suppliers I am most interested in working with.
Alcindor Pierre, TTAND Agent Partner
My biggest takeaway was the feeling of family. I felt more appreciated than at the bricks & mortar that I came from.
Rita Lee, Agent Partner
TIME FOR SOMETHING UTTERLY UNIQUE.
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