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In the news last week: CATSA apologized for chaos at Canadian airports; the CDC is urging travellers in the US to mask up, again; Carnival Cruise Line marked a pandemic milestone; TPI has a new name; and the trade celebrated Travel Agent Appreciation day with a host of incentives, many extending all month.

NEWS

With chaotic scenes at Toronto and Vancouver airports making news all week, the head of the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority apologized to air travellers for the inconvenience caused by recent increases in wait times at some major airports and insisted that CATSA is aggressively working to address the situation.

The United Nations General Assembly met last week for a first-ever dedicated session on tourism and its key role in inclusive recovery and growth. The May 4 meeting came at a critical juncture in history as the industry navigates its recent pandemic past while transitioning sustainably to the future – a future the assembly’s president warned is on a trajectory that “we cannot allow… to continue.”

United States health officials restated their recommendation that travellers in the US wear masks on planes, trains, and buses, despite a court ruling last month that struck down a national mask mandate on public transportation.

BORDERS

Greece’s civil aviation authority announced that it was lifting all COVID-19 rules for international and domestic flights except for the wearing of face masks during flights and at airports. Previously, air travellers were required to show proof of vaccination, a negative test, or a recent recovery from the disease. And visitors to Italy no longer have to fill out the EU passenger locator form, a complicated online ordeal required at airport check-in.

New Zealand welcomed tourists from Canada, the US, Britain, Japan and more than 50 other countries for the first time in more than two years last week after dropping most of its remaining pandemic border restrictions. “Today (May 2) is a day to celebrate and is a big moment in our reconnection with the world,” said Tourism Minister Stuart Nash.

AGENCIES

TPI is now TTG. Travel Professionals International (TPI) announced that it is changing its corporate brand name to Trevello Travel Group, featuring a new logo and identity, but retaining the same mandate of “helping our advisors succeed,” according to CEO Zeina Gedeon, who adds, “We’ve got big plans and we knew that to achieve these plans, we needed to make ourselves uncomfortable and ensure we were ideally situated to expand our position…” The name is meant to signify “natural leaders, independent, individualistic, extremely ambitious, original, courageous, explorers and innovators, which truly defines today’s travel advisor.

RE-OPENING/RE-START

With the departure of Carnival Splendor from the Port of Seattle last week, Carnival Cruise Line became the first major cruise line in the US to return its entire fleet of ships to operations. Carnival Splendor was the 23rd and final Carnival ship to welcome guests back on board after Carnival’s resumption of cruising from the US last July.

AIR

Flair Airlines and Super Channel have partnered to offer Flair passengers an extensive collection of Super Channel programming inflight, with over 200 hours of content available now on select routes.

Swoop launched its inaugural flight to Charlottetown Airport (YYG) from Hamilton International Airport on May 2.

Aeroplan members are now able to directly convert Aeroplan points to Starbucks Stars to redeem for Starbucks coffee, food items and more.

DEALS
The ‘Seize Your Sunshine by AMR Collection’ promotion offers up to 40% off in savings, as well as $200 in resort coupons for guests who book by July 12 for travel through Dec. 22 The promotion is applicable at all AMR Collection branded resorts, including Secrets Resorts & Spas, Dreams Resorts & Spas, Breathless Resorts & Spas, Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts, and Sunscape Resorts & Spas by AMR Collection.

The ‘Summer Vibes’ seat sale from Transat features flights to Europe from Toronto starting at $159, valid on new individual bookings made by May 23 for through Oct. 31. Some exceptions apply.

TOURS

The Lighthouse Project, the Globus family of brands’ initiative to help travellers come together to give generously for the globe’s greater good, has partnered with the Pathways Project, a coalition of leading travel organizations dedicated to broadening access to career paths in travel that lack diversity, from tour guides to entrepreneurship. Through this partnership, Globus will help the Pathways Project illuminate diverse, equitable and inclusive opportunities for people of colour to get trained and land tour director jobs across North America. Says Stéphanie Bishop, managing director for the GFOB in Canada, “We’re dedicated to being more thoughtful, inclusive, and whole as a travel community and can’t wait to train and hire new tour directors who provide a more complete representation of the world and the destinations we visit.”

HOTELS

The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority has launched a bespoke accommodations program to showcase 400-plus smaller accommodation properties in Saint Lucia. Collection de Pépites (“nuggets of gold”) features a broad range of one-of-a-kind island jewels, including local B&Bs, boutiques, inns, and luxury villas, all of which have 35 rooms or less and not be as well-known as the island’s larger hotels and resorts. The collection has a dedicated page on the Saint Lucia website, stlucia.org/collectiondepepites, where travellers can find detailed information on the types of accommodation and search by their specific criteria such as location, family-friendly or price.

Following the brand’s initial debut in Nashville several years ago, Cambria Hotels, an upscale brand franchised by Choice Hotels, has made an encore appearance with the grand opening of its second location: the Cambria Hotel Nashville Airport. The brand’s newest addition underscores Cambria’s continued quest to bring design-forward, approachable upscale accommodations with all the amenities travellers need.

BY THE NUMBERS

With Michelin’s latest guides unveiled recently, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts reports that it earned the most Michelin stars by a single luxury hospitality brand, with 28 stars across 21 restaurants in 16 hotels around the world.

RESORTS

Club Med has a unique job opening, open to any applicant with a “passion for sustainability.” Calling the position “the ultimate green job” the successful candidate for the role of Club Med’s first-ever Sustainability Coordinator for North America and the Caribbean includes 12 months fully hosted at Club Med Punta Cana; travel across eight Club Med resorts in Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean to support Club Med’s ongoing CSR efforts and make a positive impact on local communities through initiatives like the implementation of food waste management systems, overseeing environmental partnerships to protect native species; and developing guest activities like beach cleanups and turtle releases. Additional perks include a tropical office, unlimited opportunity for travel and adventure; and more. Apply HERE.

CRUISE

In honour of devoted educators across North America, Norwegian Cruise Line has relaunched of its “Norwegian’s Giving Joy” program, which invites the public to nominate 100 favourite educators for a chance to win free cruises, including on the inaugural departure of Norwegian Prima from Galveston, Texas, in October, and up to $25,000 for their schools. For information and to nominate/vote for someone, click HERE.

Starting in September, Celebrity Solstice will set sail on a series of new five-, seven-, and eight-night itineraries from its homeport in Los Angeles, making its way down the coast to visit some of the region’s most popular cities including Puerto Vallarta, Ensenada, and Mazatlán with select itineraries offering overnight stops in Cabo San Lucas. The Celebrity Cruises’ ship will also offer five Pacific Coastal itineraries that take guests up and down the West Coast from Ensenada, Mexico, to Vancouver including stops California cities like San Francisco, Catalina Island, and Monterey.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

WestJet is celebrating travel agents with its Travel Agent Appreciation Month Giveaway. Having kicked off on May 2, the incentive features exclusive discount rates for travel agents and weekly prize packages to destinations in Europe, Mexico, the US, and Canada. With a total of eight prize packages up for grabs, Weekly prize packages vary, with opportunities to win round-trip flights, hotel accommodations and as an added bonus, Silver status with WestJet Rewards. Silver status includes first and second checked bags free, advanced seat selection, airport lounge access and more. To enter, go to westjettravelagents.com/thank-you.

Through June 1, Canadian travel advisors are invited to participate every week in fun challenges on the dedicated Facebook group Club Med Samantha, Amazing you! The activities will be posted every Wednesday and agents will have until the following Tuesday to complete a mission that offers a chance to win weekly gift cards, Club Med goodies or free stays for two people. At the same time, a monthly challenge, a month-long challenge will provide the opportunity to win a four-night stay for two Exclusive Collection Space of the newest Québec Charlevoix resort with VIP experiences.

Expedia Group’s ‘Fuel Up with TAAP’ booking promotion is designed to help Travel Agent Affiliate Program (TAAP) members offset the rising gas prices. A total of CDN$4,500 of ESSO gift cards up for grabs (first prize $2,000). Eligible bookings include standalone hotel bookings made between May 1 and June 30 and used before Dec 31, 2022. The more agents book, the more chances they have to win. Five winners will be drawn. To enter, click HERE.

Virgin Voyages, one of the newest ocean cruise lines to hit the high seas, is celebrating its “First Mate” travel advisors in a month-long show of appreciation. Extended from one week in 2021 to an entire month for 2022, Virgin Voyages is offering weekly giveaways on SeaCiety, an exclusive online Facebook community for First Mates. Every week, agents will have the opportunity to enter to win VV swag with the winners announced each Thursday. To sign up to be a First Mate, which includes other perks, click HERE.

Atout France Canada’s annual travel show Destination France is set to take place in person next week with four in-person events for travel counsellors across the country. Registration is now open for the May 16-19 trade show, which will feature over 30 French destinations and suppliers. Dates are as follows: Montréal – May 16; Quebec City – May 17; Toronto – May 18; and Vancouver – May 19.

For more information and to register, click HERE.

AMR Collection will host a webinar on May 26. Broadcasting live from Dreams Karibana Cartagena Golf & Spa Resort, the session will feature a site inspection of the first AMR Collection resort in Colombia and opportunities to win three-night stays for two. For details, sign in at AMRAgents.com.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Transat A.T. Inc. has announced the appointment of Karine Gagnon, currently Commercial Director, Transat, as General Manager of Transat Distribution Canada (TDC), effective July 1. This appointment follows the decision by Louise Fecteau, who has been at the helm of TDC for three years, to retire on June 30.

Julie Golding has joined Club Med team as Business Development Manager for Quebec, in cooperation with Ariane Brouillette (BDM for Quebec and Ottawa). Industry veteran Golding is an experienced BDM who has worked at Dorval airport, in Punta Cana, as a travel agent, and with hotels and tour operators in Quebec. She can be reached at Julie.golding@clubmed.com .

DESTINATIONS

Starting this week, Canadians and other out-of-state visitors will need reservations to visit one of Hawaii’s most recognizable natural sites. State land officials announced the new policy for Diamond Head State Monument will take effect on May 12. The iconic ancient volcanic crater stands at the end of Waikiki Beach on the island of Oahu. Diamond Head is the third state park to have such a rule. Non-residents must also make reservations for Haena State Park on Kauai and Waianapanapa State Park on Maui. Reservations are required at certain times to visit Haleakala National Park on Maui.

Niagara Falls Tourism reports that the Ontario city’s fireworks program will return this summer. Canada’s longest running fireworks series will take place every night from May 20 to Oct. 10 (144 consecutive nights). The spectacular fireworks series set over the Falls offers a stunning show against the backdrop of both the American Falls and Canadian Horseshoe Falls. The Falls are also illuminated every night of the year, making the destination among the world’s best places to see fireworks displays.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The United Nations General Assembly met this week for a first-ever dedicated session on tourism and its key role in inclusive recovery and growth. The meeting on Wednesday came at a critical juncture in history as the industry navigates its recent pandemic past while transitioning sustainably to the future – a future the assembly’s president warned is on a trajectory that “we cannot allow… to continue.”

The High-Level Thematic Debate was convened by the President of the General Assembly, Abdulla Shahid, in collaboration with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and included both government representatives and public and private stakeholders in recognizing tourism’s unique ability to drive positive change.

As the first-ever UNWTO Secretary-General to address the UN General Assembly, Zurab Pololikashvili stressed that “now is the time to build resilient and peaceful societies – and tourism can help make this happen. Tourism is a leading provider of opportunities because it is based on people, builds bridges, and helps create a better tomorrow for people everywhere.”

UN Deputy Secretary-General Chair Amina J. Mohammed, added, “Every part of the United Nations system, including the World Tourism Organization as its specialized agency for the sector, can leverage tourism to help us achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, from inclusive growth to gender empowerment and biodiversity protection.”

Shahid stressed the importance of tourism, particularly for small islands and developing states, but warned of its impact – from pollution (like plastics) to emissions and pressure on ecosystems and wildlife.

“We face a critical opportunity to not only reboot tourism, upon which so many are dependent for their jobs and livelihoods, but to transform it to make it more resilient, more sustainable and more responsible.”

With the UN’s “Green Economy Report” predicting triple-digit global increases in waste disposal, greenhouse gases and energy consumption by 2050, Shadid added, “We cannot allow this to continue. We must not reboot global tourism in a business-as-usual manner. We must be more ambitious than that, more responsible than that.”

People, planet and prosperity

A Fireside Chat, chaired by CNN International anchor Richard Quest, reflected the challenges faced through tourism’s recovery, addressing how best to reconcile potential trade-offs between the need for economic growth and creating jobs with advancing efforts for overall sustainability.

The high-level debate also featured a special roundtable discussion focused on tourism for people, with an emphasis on inclusivity. This was followed by a roundtable discussion on accelerating the climate-friendly transformation of tourism. The concluding third roundtable discussion focused on re-invigorating investments in tourism.

Placing tourism in the General Assembly

On the eve of the debate, Pololikashvili and Shahid met for discussions on tourism’s role in the wider work of the United Nations in which the latter commended UNWTO’s work in guiding tourism first through the biggest crisis in its history and now through the sector’s restart and recovery.

The high-level meeting also laid the foundations for the potential inclusion of tourism as a topic of annual debates or thematic sessions within the UN General Assembly.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

I have made Puerto Vallarta, my winter “home away from home” for the past 18 years, even during Covid. Why here? Let me count the ways. The weather is ideal. In all my years here, it has rained twice for a few hours. The average daily temperature is about 80F with a breeze. Nights are cool and balmy. The restaurants and markets provide fabulous food options—from Mexican to Italian to Thai. The service is terrific.

The Banderas Bay region appeals to all types: it is senior friendly, gay friendly, single women friendly, couples friendly, family friendly… even dog friendly. It’s a happy place. You don’t need a car because public transportation (buses, taxis and Ubers) is efficient and cheap. Free WIFI is available all over town.
Here’s my 2022 update of where to save, splurge and make the most of your visit to the Bay of Banderas. You won’t likely find most of these off-the beaten-path discoveries in your average guidebook. Rest assured, this one of the safest, friendliest towns you’ll ever visit. (All prices approximated in Canadian dollars.)

THE “CHEAP THRILLS” SAVE LIST

Taco Crawl
When I read about Vallarta Food Tours, “An Evening Taco Adventure,” I signed up. Who would know better then the Vallarta food experts about where to enjoy good street food? Our progressive dinner included five kinds of tacos, pozole (a stew of hominy and shredded pork) a shot of Mexcal and a last stop of churros (Mexican doughnuts). Tacos are arguably the best bargain in town and stopping at the various stands is a great opportunity to munch and mingle with locals.
www.vallartafoodtours.com

Java Jolts
My newest discovery in central Vallarta is Puerto Cafe, a funky little place that takes its beans very seriously. Dee’s Coffee Company, another favourite for a good java jolt and daily fresh home baking, is on Calle Francisca Rodríguez with views of Puerto Vallarta’s stunning pier. Her sticky buns are outrageously good; one is plenty for two. Just up the street from Dee’s, there’s a sweet senior gentleman who operates a juice stand and squeezes fresh oranges and grapefruits while you wait. Should you find yourself in the Versailles area near Costco, Elforoteo (Los Tules 168) won’t disappoint.

Asian Tapas off the Gringo Path
Located in the Colonia Fluvial (near Costco), Bonito Kitchen is a hidden gem. Owner Francie, who was born in Vietnam and lived the U.S. before settling in PV, offers a wondrous list of small plates. Everything on the menu is flavourful. On Saturdays she includes pho (Vietnamese soup) on the menu. Her cucumber salad with toasted sesame seeds is not to be missed. Other favourites include grilled zucchini with pesto, pork/shrimp pot stickers and slow-braised pork belly. You’ll want to pair these tapa-style dishes with creative cocktails garnished with edible flowers and herbs. Francie recently opened a larger version of Bonito in the Romantic Zone (V. Carranza 512) with an expanded menu and beautifully landscaped patio. Try the martini with smoked blue cheese stuffed olives and lobster dumplings.
www.bonitokitchen.com

Saturday is Market Day
The Old Town Farmers’ Market takes place in the Lazaro Cardenas Square in the Romantic Zone on Saturday mornings. It’s full of vendors selling everything from fresh bread and baked goods to organic vegetables to crafts. Plan to have breakfast as you graze from stall to stall.

Meet me on the Malecon
You must stroll along Puerto Vallarta’s lovely seaside promenade, the Malecon. When the sun goes down, watch a folkloric spectacle in the Los Arcos, the open-air amphitheatre. On Sunday nights a live band often plays in the zocalo. Join the locals, young and senior, in a sexy salsa number. On Tuesday mornings at 9:30, meet a guide at the Millennium statue near the Rosita Hotel for a free Malecon sculpture tour (tips accepted to help fund the Los Mangos Library).

Bountiful Botanical Gardens
Hop on the bus that says El Tuito at the corner of Carranza and Aguacate. The scenic ride takes you south along the coast to the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Wear walking shoes so you can explore the various trails and collections of palms, roses, ferns, agaves, orchids, wildflowers, coffee and vanilla trees. A fascinating variety of birds and butterflies call these gardens home too, so bring your camera and binoculars. Take a refreshing dip in the Rio Los Horcones (don’t forget to bring a towel), then head up to the Hacienda de Oro restaurant for an alfresco lunch. The gift shop is full of unique items, including vanilla beans grown on the property. We visit these gardens every year and each time we discover something new. This year the formerly white chapel has been painted pink on the outside and the interior walls and ceilings are festooned with vivid murals featuring tropical birds and flowers.
www.vbgardens.org

Wednesday Night Art Walk
From the end of October to the end of May you can participate in Art Walk every Wednesday evening. About 20 galleries and studios in the historic centre open from 6 to 10 p.m. Most serve snacks and drinks; often they’ll have an artist or two on the premises. Café des Artistes, one of Vallarta’s top restaurants, offers early-bird dinner specials (three courses for about $40) in a lush garden setting.
www.vallartaartwalk.com

Joe Jack’s Fish Shack
The atmosphere is funky and casual, but the cooking is superb. Joe Jack’s, located in the Romantic Zone on Basilio Badillo, is a fun spot for lunch or dinner. Shrimp and avocado tostados slide down extremely well with a gazpacho Bloody Mary or Ginger Mojito. On Fridays, they serve all-you-can-eat beer battered fish and chips. My husband and I always share the whole red snapper cooked with lime, chiles and garlic.
www.joejackspv.com

A Palapa in Yelapa
Accessible primarily by water taxi, Yelapa provides a taste of rustic Mexico with not an all-inclusive or high rise in sight. You’ll find plenty of aging hippies, artists and laid-back locals. Take a hike or ride a horse to the waterfall, then sprawl out on the golden beach. Buy a slice of pie from one of the lady vendors who balance the homemade goodies in plastic containers on their heads. Boats leave daily from Marina Vallarta, Boca de Tomatlan, and Los Muertos Pier.

THE “YOU ONLY LIVE ONCE” SPLURGE LIST

Designer Baubles
PV is full of stores carrying silver jewelry, but for something unique, head to Cassandra Shaw on Basilio Bandillo. Shaw’s mission is to display exquisite silver jewelry made in Mexico, featuring a variety of stones, fossils and materials. Many of the designs are one of a kind, designed by Cassandra herself. The store’s mascot chihuahuas also flaunt unique necklaces.
www.cassandrashaw.com

Tre Piatti
Everything from the rosemary breadsticks to the profiteroles is homemade by chef Chanan who really knows how to pack flavour into his Italian dishes. A huge mango tree makes an interesting centrepiece for the intimate candlelit dining room. This is a favourite with gourmands, so reservations are advised.
www.trepiatti.com

Spa Indulgence
Just a few steps off Olas Altas, in the heart of the Romantic Zone, Angie and her team of certified therapists offer fabulous massages for about $50 per hour at the Metamorfosis Day Spa. There are good reasons why her spa is rated number one in PV year after year.
www.metamorfosisdayspa.com

Say Si to Sergio
Perhaps the loveliest jewelry/art shop in Puerto Vallarta is that of Sergio Bustamente. The famous Mexican artist whose sculpture “Searching for Reason” graces the Malecon, also creates miniature sculptures in the forms of rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces. Bring back a trinket with one of his stylized suns for fond memories when in colder climes.
www.coleccionsergiobustamante.com.mx

Freshly Shucked
A welcome new addition to eateries on the Malecon, La Docena Oyster Grill, offers a variety of freshly shucked bivalves served on the half shell or “Rockefeller” style. The menu also includes lots of other fish and seafood options and a deliciously rich oyster chowder. Try to snag a table overlooking the Bay of Banderas.

Star Struck at the New Casa Kimberly
Before John Huston’s 1964 film, The Night of the Iguana, Puerto Vallarta was a sleepy fishing village. All that changed when Liz Taylor arrived to keep an eye on her lover, Richard Burton, while he was filming with the voluptuous Ava Gardner. The publicity buzz about Burton and Liz’s torrid affair, plus the success of the movie, put Vallarta on the tourist map.

During their romantic romp in PV, Richard Burton presented Casa Kimberly (named after the builder’s daughter) as a gift to Elizabeth for her 32nd birthday. The totally renovated and expanded Casa Kimberly opened in 2015 as a luxury boutique hotel.
Several evenings a week, a mariachi group serenades guests with everything from traditional Mexican favourites to classical tunes in The Iguana Restaurant & Tequila Bar.
www.casakimberly.com

D’Cortés, a Hidden Gem
You won’t likely find this tiny gem in the Colonia El Caloso during your wanders. But chef’s creative cuisine is well worth the cab ride. Start with the lobster bisque, continue with lamb osso bucco, braised for hours in a rich red wine sauce and finish with a sublime chocolate volcano cake.
www.dcortes.com

Olé
In 1987 chef William Carballo travelled to Spain to study the language as well as the local cuisine. He was immediately enthralled by the tapas. In 2000 he opened Barcelona Tapas with outstanding views of the Bay of Banderas. Wash down a fantastic array of hot and cold tapas with a pitcher of Sangria and enjoy a spectacular sunset.
www.barcelonatapas.net

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

You don’t have love beer to love Oktoberfest (although it helps), just as one doesn’t have to be religious to relish Oberammergau, or a gambler to venture to Vegas. My point: they are all bucket list experiences that exude cultural significance and colour that exceed the core philosophies.

It should be noted therefore – amongst the onslaught of returning events around the world as the pandemic fades – that Munich’s annual beer festival is on again this year following a two-year pause due to coronavirus.

Munich’s mayor announced this week that the popular fall festival, which is more broadly a celebration of Bavarian culture (and dubbed a volksfest, or “people’s festival”) will be held without restrictions from Sept. 17 to Oct. 3.

First held in 1810 in honour of the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria to Princess Therese, Oktoberfest has been cancelled dozens of times during its more than 200-year history due to wars and pandemics.

Some years, ago I had occasion to meet a descendent of said Prince Ludwig, a modern brewer (amongst other things) who lamented his inability, despite his lineage, to partake in what is considered the world’s largest beer festival and which in modern terms is a cash cow for select city breweries (others, even my acquaintance, are prohibited). Which to say that Oktoberfest is big business besides being big fun.

The six Munich breweries with the golden ticket are: Augustiner, Hacker-Pschor, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, Spaten, Hofbräuhaus.

At the heart of the experience, which can best be described as a carnival with beer, are 14 legendary “big” beer tents (festhall), each with their own personalities, including entertainment and food. Some are also known for being livelier, others suitable for families.

Capacity can range from 2,500 to 11,000 at the big tents, but there are also 21 smaller tents (note: most of the “tents” are colourfully designed wooden structures – one designed to look like a gingerbread house – constructed on a temporary basis).

However, to ensure that the festhalls aren’t free-for-alls, one has to be seated to be served. Also, until 6 p.m. music is limited to orchestras, giving way to ubiquitous dance pop for the evening party after that, though most tents close at 11 p.m. (a couple are open until 1 a.m.)

Beyond the festhalls, there are also scheduled events for families and seniors, plus traditional opening ceremony and beer tapping, parades about town, and a final closing gun salute – all signifying that Oktoberfest is more widely a celebration of Bavarian culture – plus actual carnival rides.

Then again, beer is an integral part of the culture of Bavaria – an enlightened land where brew isn’t only for breakfast.

At Oktoberfest, it is served in the famous German mass (1 litre) mugs by traditional lederhosen- and dirndl-clad servers who have the capacity to carry more glasses of suds than seems possible. In 2014, a record year, 7.7 million litres of suds were consumed – not a few of them chugged during the ubiquitous singing and swaying anthem, “Ein Prosit.”

So, Oktoberfest is back. Prost! Eins, zwei, drei, g’suffa! Wunderbar!

With glass purposefully in hand, we at Travel Industry Today continue our series on some of the planet’s best bars, patios and rooftop venues. For more articles in the series, click here:

PREVIOUS ARTICLES: https://travelindustrytoday.com/pub-patio/

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

I’ve always had a thing for Dolly Parton (musically, of course). I don’t have the albums, I confess, but always thought she had one of the best voices around, and I do (still) love the song “Jolene” – one of many hits that has now led the country music superstar to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

She was named to the Hall this week along with Eminem, Lionel Richie, Carly Simon, Eurythmics, Duran Duran, and Pat Benatar, though she had initially resisted the honour, having gone on social media to “respectfully bow out” of the process, saying she did not want to take votes away from the remaining nominees and had not “earned that right.”

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation responded by saying ballots had already been sent and it was up to the voters to decide if Parton was elected; she later said she was “honoured” and would “gracefully” accept induction, which will formally happen in the Fall.

Parton is most associated with country music and is in the Country Hall of Fame, but she has performed songs with a rock feel. Artists who have made both the Rock Hall and Country Hall of Fame include Brenda Lee, Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, Hank Williams, and the Everly Brothers.

Over the years, Parton has penned over 3,000 songs, of which 25 have reached No. 1 on the country charts (a record tied with Reba McEntire). There’s also been 44 top 10 country albums (another record) and 110 charted singles during her 50-plus year career.

As for my favourite, “Jolene,” the 1973 song was her second No. 1, including in Canada, and, according to Parton, her most-covered songs by other artists.

A fun fact: During the pandemic, New Zealand’s government told locked-down Kiwis that washing their hands with soap would only take about as long as singing the chorus to “Jolene.”

So, who was Jolene? We’ll let Dolly tell the story.

Lyrics

Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
I’m begging of you please don’t take my man
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Please don’t take him just because you can

Your beauty is beyond compare
With flaming locks of auburn hair
With ivory skin and eyes of emerald green
Your smile is like a breath of spring
Your voice is soft like summer rain
And I cannot compete with you, Jolene

He talks about you in his sleep
There’s nothing I can do to keep
From crying when he calls your name, Jolene

And I can easily understand
How you could easily take my man
But you don’t know what he means to me, Jolene

Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
I’m begging of you please don’t take my man
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Please don’t take him just because you can

You could have your choice of men
But I could never love again
Hes the only one for me, Jolene

I had to have this talk with you
My happiness depends on you
And whatever you decide to do, Jolene

Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
I’m begging of you please don’t take my man
Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene
Please don’t take him even though you can
Jolene, Jolene

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

The best thing about Travel Agent Appreciation Day (today, May 04) – besides the love and adulation – is the perks. From bonus loyalty points to extra commission, lots of suppliers aim to show their support for their retail partners, often extending rewards and incentives all month. Here are a few of the ones we’ve come across:

ACTA

After so much adversity as in the past 25 months, there’s never been more reason to celebrate travel agents as there is today, says ACTA. The association is celebrating Travel Agent Day with a social media contest with prizes including two system-wide, Air Canada economy class tickets; a four-night stay at any Sandals/Beaches resort; one complimentary Independent Travel Agent Membership; One complimentary enrollment to Travel Agent Essentials Course; and one complimentary enrollment into an ACTA’s Certified Travel Counsellor (CTC) Course. To qualify agents must:

• Follow @ACTACanada and/or @ACTAQuebec
• ‘Like’ the Travel Agent Day post
• Tag a fellow Travel Agent in the comments (Every comment = 1 entry)
• Share this in your story. You MUST tag @actacanada/@actaquebec for 5 extra entries

Check out ACTA social media (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn) or visit acta.ca/travelagentday for full details. The last day to enter the contest will be Wednesday, May 25th at 11:59 pm EST. The winner will be announced in ACTA’s member newsletter and on ACTA’s social feed on June 3.

Jamaica Tourist Board

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) is thanking loyal travel advisors for all of their hard work with a coffee break this week. Starting at 12 p.m. EST on May 4, agents are invited to sign up for a “Coffee on Jamaica” card at the JTB’s Maple Leaf Room Page (https://www.visitjamaica.com/canada/engage/). The first 200 applicants will receive a $10 Tim Hortons e-card. Additionally, any Jamaica Travel Specialist member that logs Jamaica bookings between May 4 through 10 will earn an automatic additional 3,000 bonus points.

WestJet

WestJet celebrates Travel Agent Appreciation Day with the month-long launch of its Travel Agent Appreciation Month Giveaway, which kicked off on May 2, 2022, featuring exclusive discount rates for travel agents and weekly prize packages to destinations in Europe, Mexico, the US and Canada.

With a total of eight prize packages up for grabs, travel agents are invited to enter for a chance to win an experience in a WestJet destination. Weekly prize packages vary, with opportunities to win round-trip flights, hotel accommodations and as an added bonus, Silver status with WestJet Rewards. Silver status includes first and second checked bags free, advanced seat selection, airport lounge access and more. The contest is open for entry until May 30, 2022. For more information visit https://www.westjettravelagents.com/thank-you.

Sandals/Beaches

In celebration of Travel Agent Day, Unique Vacations Canada Inc, representatives of Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts, has announced the following prizes, gifts, and incentives:

• Prize Trips to Sandals Royal Curaçao – A Canadian exclusive, advisors who register and attend an upcoming Masterclass online session throughout the entire month of May 2022 will have a chance to win a four-night, land-only stay at the brand-new Sandals Royal Curaçao (opening June 1). One prize trip will be awarded for each May Masterclass. Travel advisors can contact their local BDM to register.

• Red Lane Spa Credit – As a special gift to travel advisors during their next visit to a Sandals or Beaches resort, a one-time US$50 spa credit will be added to their booking. Travel advisors must contact their local BDM at least two weeks prior to travel in order to apply the spa credit and travel must be completed by Dec. 31, 2023.

• Additional Cash Incentive – For all new bookings of six nights or longer made with Unique Vacations Inc. between May 4 and 6, 2022 (for travel in 2023-24) travel advisors will be eligible to receive an additional cash incentive as follows: US$100 – Over-the-Water suites; US$75 – Butler suites; US$50 – Club Sandals/Concierge suites

In addition, Unique Vacations Canada Inc. has placed full-page newspaper ads in support and celebration of Canadian travel advisors in The Globe and Mail and Toronto Star on May 4, 2022.

AMR Collection

AMR Collection’s “Amazing May” celebration rewards agents for their dedication to their portfolio with a variety of incentives that include a one million AMRewards points giveaway, reduced rates on points stays, special Master Agent rates, tour operator incentives, and upskilling sessions featuring newly opened resorts (webinars will take place May 5 and 26, details on AMRAgents.com). This year, perks include:

• One million AMRewards Points Giveaway: Travel agent partners can earn points at AMR Collection Amazing May Webinars, events, in-person meetings and visits, and through participating tour operators. Points can be used to redeem free stays, purchase resort amenities for themselves or to surprise their clients, or receive a cash bonus!

• Master Agent Rates: Travel agents can book stays at participating AMR Collection resorts with discounted Master Agent rates and reduced points stays for AMR Collection, with the ability to save up to 4,050 points per night on their AMRewards points bookings and up to 25% off Master Agent rate bookings.

• Additionally, participating agents can register all bookings accumulated through May in AMRewards for the opportunity to attend the 2022 Amazing Agents Celebration, which will be held Dec. 1 -4, 2022 at Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana. To be considered for the event, all bookings from July 1, 2021, through July 11, 2022, for travel by Dec. 31, 2022, must be registered at AMRewards.com by July 11, 2022.

Collette

In honour of travel advisor appreciation month in May, agents will earn $50 toward Collette’s “Travel Advisor Appreciation Booking Incentive” program by securing two or more bookings for travel in 2022. The top three agents who secure the most bookings in May will also earn cash prizes: $1,000 for first place; $750 for second place; $500 for third place. All bookings must be for travel in 2022.

Also, Collette’s “Share Your Travel Moment” giveaway, which is open to all travel advisors, offers the chance to win a $1,000 travel voucher. To qualify, join Collette’s Travel Agent Network page on Facebook and post your favourite travel moment. And, Collette is offering 50% off advisory travel and 25% off companion travel. Bookings can be made beginning 180 days prior to departure.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages, one of the newest ocean cruise lines to hit the high seas, is celebrating its “First Mate” travel advisors in a month-long show of appreciation.
Extended from one week in 2021 to an entire month for 2022, Virgin Voyages is offering weekly giveaways on SeaCiety, an exclusive online Facebook community for First Mates. Every week, agents will have the opportunity to enter to win VV swag with the winners announced each Thursday. To sign up to be a First Mate, which includes other perks, visit https://www.FirstMates.com

Club Med

For the seventh year in a row Club Med is celebrating travel advisors throughout May with a host of gifts and free stays in its resorts. From May 4 through June 1, advisors are invited to participate every week in fun and exciting challenges on dedicated Facebook group for Canadian travel advisors, Club Med Samantha, Amazing you! The activities will be posted every Wednesday and agents will have until the following Tuesday to complete a mission that will take agents on a journey through the Club Med universe. Those participating in the challenge will have a chance to win weekly gift cards, Club Med goodies or free stays for two people. Every Wednesday, the winner from the previous week’s challenge will be announced.

In addition to the weekly challenge, a month-long challenge will also be announced, for which the winner will be rewarded with a Big Prize: Four nights for two people in the Exclusive Collection Space of the newest Québec Charlevoix resort with VIP experiences.

TravelBrands

For one day only, travel agents can earn up to 10X Loyalty Rewards points on all bookings made online on May 4. Travel agents will earn 10X Loyalty Rewards points on cruises, hotel only, additional land components, car rentals, Sunquest packages, and TravelGenie packages booked online with a minimum value of $100. The offer is also applicable to Exotik Journeys products booked by phone. Travel agents will also earn 5X Loyalty Rewards points on eligible flight-only products entitled to 100 Loyalty Rewards points booked online. To make eligible bookings, visit www.travelbrandsagent.com.

First published at Travel Industry Today

First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News