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EXPLORA I, the first of up to six luxury ships to join the Explora Journeys (EJ) fleet, will debut this summer in Northern Europe as the luxury lifestyle brand of the MSC Group sets sail for the first time.

EJ will offer eight individual sailings as part of the Northern European Inaugural Journeys Collection, showcasing a balanced blend of well-known destinations, such as Copenhagen or Edinburgh, discovered through a different lens and lesser known, rarely visited ports, such as Leknes in Norway’s Lofoten Islands and Ísafjörður in Iceland.

EXPLORA I will be officially named on July 8 in Civitavecchia near Rome, Italy before heading to Southampton, UK, to depart for her maiden journey on July 17, 2023. Cruises are open for bookings and guests can enhance their journeys with pre- and post-luxury hotel stays, offered in the journey enrichment program.

Meanwhile, the newly announced “Experiences” for the cruises are tailored to small, intimate groups, from two to 25 guests; always with an emphasis on exclusive, off-the-beaten-path encounters and focused on a slower pace of travel to allow guests to fully immerse themselves in each destination, while not leaving their footprint on the places they explore.

“When creating our experiences, we first need to understand the very essence of each destination and then focus on unique ways to offer our guests the chance to immerse themselves into the local culture, taste authentic food and discover truly hidden gems,” says Explora Journeys exec Sacha Rougier. “Our selected tour operators have been hand-picked and quickly realized that we want to clearly differentiate ourselves, by offering our guests an extremely wide range of experiences that go to the root of each destination.

Inaugural destinations and experiences include:Norway: Guests will have the chance to discover some of Europe’s most dramatic coastlines, as EXPLORA I will sail deep into the Norwegian fjords (photo). Crossing the Arctic Circle, an array of nature-focused adventures awaits in Leknes on the Lofoten Islands. In Geiranger, a guided Nordic-walking tour will combine exhilarating sportive adventure with breath-taking vistas overlooking cliffs and waterfalls. From the port of Molde, a Viking ship will bring guests to an 18th century fishing village, while other experiences include a gourmet dinner paired with the finest Norwegian spirits in Trondheim or a tour on the iconic Flåm Line in Flåm.

Denmark: Where iconic design meets peaceful nature, Denmark will enchant travellers with its diversity. Taking city sightseeing to a new level, guests can embark on a kayak tour of Copenhagen, while nature takes centre stage in Skagen, with highlights including a visit to the magnificent migrating dune in Grenen. In the Faroe Islands, experiences such as open-air yoga sessions or a magnificent hike to the floating lake in Leitisvatn await.

Iceland: The land of fire and ice is a paradise for all active travellers. Once-in-a-lifetime adventures can be experienced in Reykjavik, during a helicopter flight over dozens of volcanic craters or a swim in the famous blue lagoon, while in Ísafjörður guests can enjoy a thrilling whale watching. From the port of Akureyri, guests will have the chance to embark on a journey to the remote Grimsey Island, known for its rich wildlife and spectacular landscape, with other destination highlights in Akureyri including a visit to the waterfall of gods or a unique Icelandic horse experience.

Sweden: This northern kingdom, will captivate guests with its focus on mindfulness and the unique balance between calm nature and glittering city lights. During a mindful forest hike and meditation session in Goteborg, guests will have the chance to reconnect with nature in an ancient nature reserve in Sweden’s lush countryside, followed by a healthy lunch in the woods. A dreamy day of remote spa experiences and the finest seaside cuisine on one of Sweden’s most windswept places awaits on Hamneskar Island, a private island paradise to relax and unwind.

Netherlands: In Rotterdam, guests can indulge in the cosmopolitan flair of the city and admire the diversity of architecture or join a unique soul tram ride pairing sight-seeing with unique musical experiences. For all art lovers, Explora Journeys has curated a private after-hours visit to the Mauritshuis in Rotterdam, where an expert curator is guiding guests through the museum that houses some of the world’s most acclaimed masterpieces, such as the Girl with a Pearl Earring, the most famous oil painting by Dutch Golden Age painter Johannes Vermeer. In the magnificent Golden Room, a three-course gourmet dinner will be served, while admiring paintings of Pellegrini and listening to exquisite live classical music.

United Kingdom: Guests can embark on a series of unique adventures and experiences as diverse as the country itself. In the United Kingdom lush landscapes, a proud royal heritage and unique musical discoveries await. Guests can enjoy VIP access to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, one of the most significant celebrations of musical performance in the world. Other experiences include a private visit to one of the premier Scottish Whisky distilleries, a cooking class in Lerwick in the Shetland Islands, using some of the finest local seafood or a private visit of Strawberry Field in Liverpool, John Lennon’s childhood playground.

Greenland: Truly off the beaten path, Greenland offers guests the chance to immerse themselves into the stillness of vast landscapes, while embarking on thrilling adventures from the port of Qaqortoq, such as a helicopter tour with a landing on a glacier or a trip to the Uunartoq Hot Springs for a dip in the sumptuously warm waters. In Nuuk, travellers can interact with the locals by attending one of their traditional Kaffemik gatherings. Every golf aficionado’s dream will come true during a round of golf on the world’s only arctic grass course.

Agents can book cruises at www.explorajourneys.com/traveladvisors, or the Explora Journeys website www.explorajourneys.com with a team of multilingual Explora Experience Ambassadors available to personally assist.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Nine islands in the middle of the Atlantic making up the archipelago known as the Azores have a year-round, pleasant temperature which, when combined with the islands’ unparalleled nature, cover the two basic must-haves for a safe, fun family vacation or for those looking to relax and re-charge in isolation with nature.

Recognized and awarded as the “leading adventure tourism destination in Europe” and as “the world’s first leading sustainable tourism destination,” it’s no surprise that the Azores will become an off-the-beaten European destination on many Canadians’ bucket list this year.

Easy to reach in a bit over five hours flight time, nonstop flights from Toronto and Montreal bring Canadian travellers to Terceira and São Miguel with access to neighbouring islands by inter-island flights, ferries or private taxi. Flights are operated by SATA Azores Airlines using new Airbus A330 aircraft.

Travelling in the Azores is easy. Renting a car allows you to explore the island on your own timetable and make stops along the way to swim in volcanic craters, explore caves and lagoons, learn about the history and culture of the islands or take part in a pre-arranged sport activity.

The ocean around the islands are a permanent home and stop-off destination for more than 20 different types of whales and dolphin species which makes the Azores one of the world’s largest whale sanctuaries and fastest-growing whale watching destination.

A tour for whale watching is highly recommended for family fun. Cave tours are also popular attractions with families as they are safe, educational and spooky fun. There are even tours that offer the unique experience of exploring inside an ancient lava cave, swimming in a volcanic crater or hot thermal springs. There’s a wide choice of aquatic sports available in the Azores, ranging from paddleboarding, surfing, bathing, whale- and dolphin-watching tours to sailing and thrilling scuba diving.

The fun continues on land where the islands offer a total of 83 official hiking trails that range in difficulty from easy strolls, horse- and bike-riding trails to extreme hiking and canyoneering with harness, helmet and appropriate rope systems. These ancient trails are definitely one of the most popular activities in the island that offers peace and tranquility. They are the home of unspoiled nature, valleys, lakes, forests and volcanic craters.

Senior travellers, even those with wheelchairs, can find themselves on a trail at a viewing point looking over the ocean, into dormant volcanic craters or onto charming, small villages. The viewpoints are easy to access for incredible views of the island. In the background, the only noise you hear is the sound of cows at a nearby farm or one of thousands of migrating birds that make the islands a favourite for bird lovers. Alone, but safe; isolated in pure, clean nature. Many call it “communing with nature” or “forest bathing.”

Unwinding in the Azores also means enjoying an organic volcanic massage, a day of golf or at a spa resort, swimming in the natural hot springs found inland or along the rocky coasts and enjoying the culture and food.

Nature is not the only draw of the Azores. Ponta Delgada, the main city on the island of São Miguel, reminds one of charming European villages with cobblestoned streets, picturesque, colorful plazas and street cafes, botanical gardens, museums, year-round street festivals and a booming culinary scene. The city also offers a unique tourist attraction nearby: Cozido das Furnas, a volcano-cooked meat stew buried underground and cooked using natural heat.

On the island of Terceira, the city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site with must-see sites and beautiful promenades. Housed in a former Franciscan monastery, the museum of Angra do Heroísmo is a beautiful historical complex with informative exhibits that educate visitors on the rich history of the Azores due to its strategic geographical location and where NATO has placed a military airport. The Museu do Vinho (wine museum) is on the southern coast of the island in a gorgeous city with a beautiful vineyard landscape.

Ending a day of exploration, food is a main concern for families with picky eaters or health-conscious travellers. Rest assured, the kids will be asking for seconds. The Azores Islands are an epicurean delight for foodies. The archipelago’s many unique microclimates, an abundant supply of clean water and the volcanic nature make it possible to offer a variety of culinary experiences. Nearby farmers and local fishermen provide the salads, meat and fish you’ll enjoy in restaurants. Arrangements can also be made to enjoy an authentic, farm-to-table dining experience or visit the only tea plantation in Europe. There’s mouth-watering cheeses, delicious Portuguese-style pastries and local, organic wines to complete the meals.

The Azores are beautiful throughout the year but summer is the most popular time to visit. For those looking to explore natural beauty, and engage in many types of sports while enjoying excellent food, wine and culture, the Azores islands offer a vacation that’s sure to create extraordinary memories and epic Instagram posts.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

About eight million years ago, the first signs of the Azores islands started to appear in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean as a result of volcanic eruptions. Eventually, nine major islands were created about 1,2000 kilometres (800 miles) west of mainland Portugal. These islands make up the Azores archipelago and are Mother Nature’s gift from the centre of earth for us to enjoy.

Lava creates interesting underwater architecture from water arches, swim-through caves and tunnels which can be viewed along the coast. On land, it creates craters and geothermal springs and land with nutrient rich soil for plant life. The islands are truly a destination for water sports enthusiasts of all levels – from those who wish to swim in a a volcanic crater or soak in a volcanic hot spring to those who want to dive with the sharks and use hyperbaric chambers.

Here is where you can explore the inside of a volcano, one of the rarest experiences on earth – Algar do Carvão. Descending 90 meters (300 feet) down an ancient lava tube formed over 3,000 years ago with the world’s highest concentration of silica stalactites leads you to an incredibly rare and beautiful sight that will take your breath away. Imagine, you can even arrange to get married inside the volcano and it’s the only place in the world for such a hot spot wedding, or perhaps a special concert.

Another unique experience no other destination can offer is the geothermal dining experience known as Furnas. The ultimate foodie experience is a traditional Azorean dish that involves burying meats and vegetables in volcanic soil that is then cooked with volcanic heat. Volcanic rock eventually breaks down and forms some of the most fertile soils which can be reflected in the flavours of the Azorean cuisine that uses ingredients from local farmers and fishermen.

Descending into a volcano and eating volcano-cooked food is just the beginning of this jaw-dropping vacation. Lava also creates interesting underwater architecture in the form of water arches, swim-through tunnels and caves that can be easily viewed along the coastline by bathers, boaters and divers. On land, the lava left its mark with huge craters and thermal bathing pools. The Azores islands are definitely a water sports enthusiast’s paradise both in water and on land.

The Azores’ location and convergence of currents here makes these islands a haven for spotting amazing sea creatures. With sightings possible all year round, the waters surrounding the Azores islands are one of the largest sanctuaries for whales in the world and, therefore, one of the best places for whale watching. In addition to whales, visitors will be able to spot dolphins, sea turtles and birds in their natural environment. Scuba diving in the Azores offers world-class views of some incredible species, including blue sharks, whale sharks, mako sharks, mobula rays and manta rays.

Hiking is another wonderful way to explore the Azores Islands – with over 80 trails to choose from there is something to suit every hiker from a gentle walk to challenging hikes. Bicycles and horses are also available for exploring the island along trails that lead to beautiful landscapes of the ocean or the whole island, with some of them going through thick laurel forests and others leading to hidden waterfalls, volcanic craters and ancient ruins.

Along these ancient and mysterious trails, the only sounds you’re likely to hear is a cow from a nearby farm or some of the numerous migratory birds that, like the whales, pick the Azores as a resting spot during their long intercontinental trips. They know a good resting spot when they see it.

For more relaxing activities, the Azores Islands offer a vibrant culture and history, internationally recognized wine and cuisine, spa resorts with yoga and volcanic massages, UNESCO World Heritage city of Terceira’s Angra do Heroismo, the only tea plantation in Europe, natural thermal pools, fascinating caves and botanical gardens. Eating in the Azores means enjoying food that was nurtured by the special nutrients of volcanic soil and guarantees healthy meals with great flavour.

When it comes to relaxing, many believe that volcanic rock, also known as lava stone, is a grounding stone that gives one strength and courage. Supposedly, a calming stone, but then the entire Azores are a calming experience with its charming villages reminding one of the picturesque cobblestoned streets of Europe without the mass tourism. The Azores welcomes its visitors as a safe destination which is ideal for solo or senior travellers who want an off-the-beaten tourist track experience and who like to explore in isolation with nature but are concerned about safety.

Considered one of the world’s top 10 most sustainable destinations, the Azores were again voted Europe’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination, by World Travel Awards. Known for natural wonders like stunning waterfalls and lagoons, impossibly blue lakes, hot springs, hydrangeas, and volcanic craters, the nine islands of the Azores have been likened to “the Hawaii of the East” with their combination of lush forests, pristine beaches, and volcanic coastline.

Yet, despite its popularity and awards, the Azoreans have a long history of protecting its natural environment and are keen on sustaining their natural beauty. They’ve learned how to harness geothermal energy and geothermal powerplants supply a significant share of the archipelago’s electricity. Renewable generation technologies are installed on all nine islands.

As of December 2019, the Azores has been officially recognized as the world’s first island archipelago to be certified under the EarthCheck Sustainable Destination program, making it one of the most sustainable tourism destinations in the whole world. This tremendous honor is one currently shared by only 13 regions across the entire globe.

Both Terceira and São Miguel islands are closer than you think. SATA Azores Airlines operates non-stop service to the islands of Terceira and Sāo Miguel, a bit over 5 hours flight time. Both Terceira and São Miguel act as gateways to the other islands. One can fly between the islands, take ferries or arrange a private water taxi depending on your island-hopping desires.

With year-round pleasant temperature and the myriad of enticing outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, diving, snorkeling, whale watching, swimming with dolphins, canyoning, golfing, and kayaking/paddle boarding, it’s no wonder the islands are one of the favourite locations for nature and adventure tourism in the world.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Ensemble has launched a new familiarization program for members and Flight Centre is “fizzing with inspo” in a cheeky, new promotional series on YouTube this week’s retail round-up. Also, well-earned acknowledgements for Trevello and The Travel Agent Next Door.

Ensemble

Ensemble has announced a new familiarization (FAM) program for members. ‘Further Your World; Exclusive Educational Trips,’ is designed to provide members with firsthand in-destination experiences to build greater knowledge of and relationships with the consortium’s partners.

Through the program, advisors will gain direct access to in-demand destinations, emerging themes, and new products, along with the opportunity to engage in networking, and participate in educational programs to elevate their performance and help grow sales.

For members, specific goals and benefits include advancing the ability to:

• Effectively market and promote destinations and experiences to current and potential customers.

• Develop and enhance relationships with Ensemble’s partners including hotel staff, DMC’s, cruise lines, shuttle drivers, tour guides, restaurant owners, airlines, etc. that inspire trust and loyalty.

• Attend educational learning sessions and gain access to concrete sales and marketing tools that highlight the unique features of each destination.

For partners, benefits include being able to:

• Showcase their products and offerings while equipping agents with the tools, information, and resources to better sell them as a result of firsthand in-destination experience and personal testimonials.

• Grow their social media exposure and content creation for destination/experience

The FAM program debuts with five trips in the remainder of 2023 with partners including:

• Silversea (July) – A cruise aboard the Silver Moon to Reykjavik
• AMA Waterways (Sept.) – This trip features a cruise along the Mekong River through Cambodia and Vietnam
• Egypt & Beyond (Sept.) – The group will get an immersive experience to learn about ancient Egypt
• G Adventures (Oct.) – An exploration of the culture, nature, and people of Ecuador
• Intrepid (Dec.) – An Antarctica Adventure

“We are excited to add yet another new resource to the complement of programs we’ve launched in the past several months,” said Michael Johnson, President of Ensemble. “FAM programs are key to helping members have the firsthand experience they need to guide their clients about new products and emerging destinations. That knowledge and expertise then leads to more bookings and ultimately increased revenues for members and partners alike.”

Flight Centre

Partying with the Hiltons in Las Vegas, marvelling at Mongolian traders aboard the Trans-Siberian, meeting your future spouse in a supermarket in Ghana… Flight Centre that, as travellers, its people have a lot of stories to tell. And now they’re being shared in a series of one-minute videos in a series that can be seen on YouTube.

Dubbed ‘This One Time,’ the video series “straddles decades and continents, laughs and woah-moments, joys and outright face-palms to offer you the ultimate aperitif to travel,” says Flight Centre Global Head of Marketing Clinton Hearne.

“Everyone has travel stories they share with those they know, so we wanted to give this instantly identifiable form of storytelling a platform that we hope will resonate,” he adds. “The result is a series of punchy videos that are fizzing with inspo.”

“People are getting excited about travel again, and we want to catch some of that excitement by sharing our very own experiences. We’re dropping these videos as little reminder notes that now is as good a time as any to plan that next trip, whether you’re eyeing up a summer escape to Europe, cultural immersion in Asia or a raucous tour of the USA.”

Hearne said Flight Centre’s YouTube channel had been experiencing something of a golden patch off the back of the popularity of its Kids Talk travel series.

“YouTube has become an indispensable channel for people sourcing inspiration and information to shape their travel plans,” Hearne says. “With a bit of customary Flight Centre cheek, where we don’t take ourselves too seriously, we hope our ‘This One Time’ series will spark many more travel stories.”

The Travel Agent Next Door

The Travel Agent Next Door has won the Celebrity Ambassador award for the second year in a row.

“This award represents the heart of what Celebrity Cruises is all about,” said Brenda Yeomans, Key Account Manager, Canada. “It is about putting people first. Doing this through your communities, sharing, caring, partnership and mentorship.”

She added: “The Travel Agent Next Door‘s people, put all of these into action each and every day. You are all Celebrity ambassadors who truly care about the success of each other. You are all great supporters in your local communities and charities – but also overseas with the Pencils for Kids Charity. We are very honoured and proud to help you in your amazing fundraising efforts. Your hearts are huge! Congratulations.”

Antje Splettstoesser, TTAND’s marketing director, said a supportive community takes place every single day and the award “means a lot to us and our agents since we jointly believe in giving and making this world a better place. Every year our agents go above and beyond to support our charity of choice Pencils for Kids. Through the charity, we were able to build four new kindergartens in Niger, West Africa.”

Trevello

Trevello Travel Group has been included by Windstar Club 180, an exclusive group of travel agencies that have demonstrated exceptional knowledge of the Windstar product and outstanding sales performance. Club members receive special benefits, such as access to the cruise line’s most sought-after itineraries, dedicated support from Windstar’s sales team, and opportunities to participate in Windstar educational programs.

Andrea Mendelson, Windstar Regional Sales Manager in Canada, praised Trevello’s commitment to promoting the Windstar brand and delivering exceptional service to their clients, stating, “Trevello’s advisors and head office teams are engaged, and their business is thriving. We are excited to welcome Trevello to the Windstar Club 180 and eager to continued growth of our mutual sales.”

Caroline Hay, GM of the Cruise Division at Trevello, added, “We are thrilled to be named to the Windstar Club 180. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our advisors, who believe in the Windstar brand and are confident that Windstar consistently provides their clients with extraordinary experiences on board. We are grateful for the incredible support we receive from Windstar to support our significant sales growth.”

First published at Travel Industry Today

Source

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News