Global Travel News

Excitement flew high on the Atlantic breeze as we stood on the top deck of Polaris, counting seconds for the meteorologist to untether the massive weather balloon. As the helium-filled bubble soared 30 kilometers into space and out of view, everyone cheered, thrilled to witness the scientific mission, synchronized with weather stations around the globe, to simultaneously launch balloons to gather crucial atmospheric data for predicting weather.

By now, we knew our Polaris cruise bestowed value beyond adventurous escapades and delicious meals. As one of Viking’s two 378-passenger expedition ships, Polaris and her identical twin, Octantis (launched months earlier in 2022), are purpose-built with Polar Class 6 technology and stabilizers to navigate through harsh icy waters in remote Arctic and Antarctic conditions. Meantime, both operate as fully equipped scientific research vessels with a 256-member crew, including about 30 scientists who happily engage passengers to participate in research along the way.

Arriving recently at Toronto Harbour to see Polaris’ jaunty prow facing the city skyline across sparkling Lake Ontario, my anticipation rose for the 16-day ‘Canada and Atlantic Coastline’ itinerary that would traverse the St. Lawrence Seaway enroute to Fort Lauderdale.

Mingling with passengers in the small cruise terminal, I was surprised to learn that several couples who hailed from Calgary, Mississauga, or Ontario towns – all who spend winters in Florida – had been inspired to book this itinerary by savvy travel advisors who recommended it as “a leisurely cruise alternative to flying south.” Two couples from New Zealand said their advisor suggested this as part of a North America tour – starting with flights to Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto “to see Niagara Falls” – that would continue inland from Fort Lauderdale.

Minutes after embarking, we were ushered to a safety briefing. An expedition crew member demonstrated the ease of donning the emergency life jacket. With its attached life preserver and protective, head-warming hood, the zip-up jacket is the most impressive emergency apparel afloat.

Home away from home at sea

On to my home at sea: Polaris staterooms run from 21 sq. m. to spacious 110. My minimalist room #3011 proved comfortable, cozy, and bright for the entire voyage. The corner seating area converts to a “Nordic balcony” with the press of a button that raises and lowers the window. A narrow observation shelf is handy for balancing a camera or supplied binoculars. Amenities include a stocked mini-fridge and Nespresso maker. The comfortable bed has fluffy goose down pillows, though hypo-allergenic bedding is available on request. The compact bathroom has heated floors and towel rail, double sink, stall shower, and Freyja toiletries.

A full-length drying closet holds expedition life preservers (lighter that emergency jackets) used for kayaks and Zodiac tours. On Arctic and Antarctic itineraries it conveniently airs out polar gear including the Viking-supplied keepsake parka, waterproof pants and loaner boots. I used it to dry small items rinsed in the sink. Incidentally, on this southern coastal route, I loved my starboard-facing location for landscape views.

Windows on the world

Exploring Viking Polaris’ six decks, it was evident the ship is architecturally crafted for viewing nature in any destination, any elements, as outdoor areas include protective. Facing forward on Deck 3, The Bow is perfect for viewing approaching ports, while The Shelter provides cover. Indoors, lofty views are visible from the panoramic Explorer’s Lounge. Overlooking the wake at aft or back-of ship, Finse Terrace seats are positioned around a lava stone fire pit. Aft views are also seen on Deck 5, from the al fresco Aquavit Terrace, or two small pools, including one with a retractable glass roof.

Interior spaces have vast windows, inviting the outdoors in. On Deck 5, Viking’s Nordic styling induces a sense of sumptuous comfort in The Living Room and The Library. Leather sofas draped with reindeer hides and Scandinavian wood chairs are artfully clustered with contemporary accents for congenial mingling. Cushy chaises piled with pillows in tactile fabrics invite serene repose for writing a journal, or reading one of Viking’s zillion books. Games tables with built-in technology promise endless fun. For all its restful environment, I imagine passengers jumping at the sight of breaching whales, grabbing cameras, and dashing to the outdoor promenade.

Lower decks showcase Viking’s dedication to enriching passengers’ environmental awareness with mindful experiential activities, and why the line is dubbed “the thinking person’s cruise.” Expedition Central has charts, maps, a model weather balloon, and computers to research the local biosphere. The Studio has life-size models of local birds to help identify species. The Lab – Polaris’ scientific research facility – is where passengers get hands-on experience analyzing specimens collected on tours.

Up on The Bow for the “Champagne sail-away” from Toronto Harbour, passengers raved about the city I take for granted. Mingling with people from Washington, New York, and Copenhagen, I learned they were among 33 who embarked in Duluth, Minnesota, for a Great Lakes cruise. Turns out, they’re on the second segment of Viking’s Longitudinal World Cruise, continuing beyond Fort Lauderdale, through the Panama Canal, along South America to the Galapagos and Chilean Fiords, enroute to Ushuaia for an Antarctica expedition.

Expedition briefing

After the CN Tower drifted from view, we headed to the first of daily briefings in The Aula. The beautiful, light-filled amphitheatre was inspired by the University of Oslo’s venue for the Nobel Peace Prize. Captain Xavier Mongin introduced the international crew including submarine pilots, kayak and Zodiac drivers, and mountain guides. They invited passengers to meet in The Hangar the next day.

Chief Scientist Dr. Brandi Revels gave our voyage environmental context when she said: “We are on the same journey as all the water in the Great Lakes that flows to the ocean. This cruise excites our scientists studying changes in the coastal biosphere. They are experts in marine biology, nuclear chemistry, meteorology, ornithology, whales, or Great Lakes ecology.”

Their ambitions include launching underwater video systems along the way to study fish migration and monitor the flow of microplastics; and gathering phytoplankton specimens to track changes in ecosystems. Interestingly, Viking partners with global research institutes, including NASA Global Cloud Watch, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) which receives atmospheric data from weather balloons. Dr. Revels said learning about nature and cultivating nature hobbies nurtures the mind.

Briefing over, passengers headed to dinner, most to buffets at World Café (for international dishes and seafood) or Mansen’s (for Scandinavian specialties). Polaris’ two restaurants require reservations. Manfredi’s serves Italian specialties, and The Restaurant, international cuisine. Tucked at a scenic window table in Manfredi’s, I relished every taste of my salad sprinkled with peanuts and pecorini cheese; fragrant porcini mushroom soup; tasty rack of lamb with truffle ragu polenta; and green tea sorbet. Dining solo, I appreciated the staff’s engaging attention, particularly the chef who greeted people at every table by name.

Thousand Islands cruising

Early next morning, beaming sunshine sparked a lively atmosphere as Polaris navigated eastward through the Thousand Islands. Passengers lining The Bow poised cameras and binoculars, ready to capture wildlife, eagles’ nests perched on trees, and flocks of sea birds nestling on shores of tiny islets. Others walked the promenade, exercised in the gym, indulged in the spa, or simply relaxed.

Along the way, a scientist detailed the importance of the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River as an historic artery for exploration and trade long before Canada or the US achieved nationhood. Completed in 1959, construction of the 306-km. stretch of St. Lawrence Seaway between Montreal and Canada was considered one of the world’s most challenging engineering feats. Seven locks were built to raise vessels 75 m. from sea level at Montreal as they transit to Lake Ontario’s elevation. At its eastern point, The Seaway officially starts at Lake Erie where it links to Lake Ontario via the Welland Canal locks built in 1932. On our eastward path, the locks would lower Polaris’ elevation, starting at the US-owned Eisenhower and Snell locks enroute to five Canadian locks.

Stopping for lunch in the World Café, I found abundant choices including filet of beef, lamb chops, lobster, sea bass, pastas, salads, and tempting desserts. Figuring on tempering my appetite, I vowed to take steps instead of elevators.

Yellow submarines

 That afternoon, I visited the enclosed marina called The Hangar, eager to see the two yellow submarines, which I’d been hesitant to pre-book for excursions. My confidence revved up as 2nd Officer Submarine, Nikola Marinovic explained the submarine’s 270-degree spherical bubble virtually “disappears” as it descends, giving the six passengers seated on swivel chairs the sensation of total immersion. Standing beside the duo – named Ringo and George – Marinovic showed the submersion level when passengers board it from a Zodiac. Inspired, I ran to the excursion desk, only to make the wait list. Space was available on the SOBs, the two military-grade Special Operations Boats that seat 12 for scenic tours.

Next morning, while Captain Mongin navigated toward Trois-Rivieres, expedition photographer Molly Wallis gave tips on iPhone photography. She promised to take photos along the way, and post images on the ship’s app that passengers could download.

Viking includes guided tours in every port where possible. When Polaris berthed alongside Terrace Turcotte, passengers had various options. Active types joined kayak safaris, SOB jaunts or a rural hike. Others toured Trois Rivieres’ historic Old Town. Established in 1634 as a settlement of New France, it was strategically positioned for fur traders and explorers. Sites included Notre-Dame-du-Cap Sanctuary, the cobbled street of Ursuline Nuns, the infamous Old Prison now linked to the modern POP Gallery, and lively Rue de Forges, lined with shops and cafés.

Back on Polaris, we snacked on bowls of French-Canadian pea soup at Mamsen’s. At the daily briefing, the marine ecologist described how passengers helped deploy equipment to measure the transition of Great Lakes waters to Trois Rivieres’ marine environment. Later that evening, a lecture on Quebec City prepared us for the next day.

In Quebec City, Viking offered premium (extra cost) excursions to Montmorency Falls & Ile d’Orleans, and Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area. The included walking tour of Old Quebec City provided an excellent overview of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, plus the Saint-Louis Forts and Chateaux excavations led by engaging Parks Canada guide, Gabrielle Baltan.

Along the way, I met two, different solo passengers who became lovely ship-board friends. Both heading to Antarctica, one was on her third world cruise, the other on her eighth.

Atlantic Canada

Cruising into the Gulf of St. Lawrence next morning, we spotted the first of the string of Canada’s iconic lighthouses that lit the way for early sailors and fishermen. Lectures focused on the St. Lawrence River, third largest in North America. Historically, on the First Nations people who originally inhabited its shores, explorer Samuel de Champlain, and the evolution New France and Quebec City. Science buffs were enthralled by details and images of the river’s diverse ecosystems, its species of plants, fish, and birds.

I dedicated my afternoon to wellness in the spa, vacillating between the hot steam room, frosty snow room, and swimming against waves in the long therapeutic pool. Loving the sensation, this became part of my sea day routine.

Brilliant skies the next day enhanced thrilling jaunts around Iles-de-la-Madeleine. Actives exploring by kayaks, Zodiacs or SOBs came close to playful seals and sea birds nestled along rugged red cliffs. Others tendered to Cap-aux-Meules for a culinary hike of Belle-Anse to taste local seafood and cheese. Or enjoyed oyster tasting on a scenic tour with stops at the L’Etang-du-Nord lighthouse, famed fishermen statue, and early Acadian settlements, including precious La Verniere Church, North America’s second-oldest wood church, circa 1872-1891.

Excitement was palpable for submarine dives when Polaris anchored near Cape Breton, NS, near Canada’s oldest lighthouse guarding Fortress Louisbourg. Hopes fizzled when the sub team decided the combo of northerly winds with 1.5-metre southerly swells made boarding too risky. Instead, sub participants boarded watercraft, and returned with amazing shots of hawks and cormorants.

Submarine excitement rose again when Polaris anchored near Lunenburg, NS. When the sub team started their trial descent, they found the water too murky for visibility. Meantime, watercraft were ready, as were Lunenburg’s delightful options. The historic Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, hailed as North America’s best surviving example of British colonial settlement. Eager to revisit Peggy’s Cove after many years, I joined the premium (extra cost) tour with lobster lunch. The lobster could have tasted better, but seeing the lighthouse perched on the stony cape was priceless, and I was pleased to see the new viewing platform for people with mobility issues.

Wildlife galore

Wildlife viewing was spectacular the next day, as we passed Halifax and entered the Atlantic Ocean. Pods of dolphins followed us for miles. Minke whales arched out of the ocean, and dove with flashing tails. Among flocks of seabirds, a pair of wide-winged Peregrine falcons followed Polaris. When the wide-winged male caught a small bird of prey, he perched on the ship’s rail, and squawked at nearby crew to stay away.

New York, New York

Everyone rose before dawn the next morning for the sensational approach to New York Harbour. Passengers lined The Bow in darkness – warmed by hot Baileys Cream coffees – as we passed the gleaming Statue of Liberty, entered the Hudson River, and cruised along the dazzling skyline to our Pier 88 berth in the heart of the city.

Viking’s included excursions included the 911 Memorial and Museum, the Museum of Natural History, plus an all-day complimentary shuttle. The premium “Evening City Lights” tour included a visit to the top of the Empire State Building.

Virginia and South Carolina

Leisurely sea days separated the next two ports of call. Norfolk, Virginia and Charleston, SC,  each gave wonderful opportunities for watercraft adventures, plus varieties of guided tours to historic and cultural sites, including pre-Civil War plantations.  As the world’s largest naval base and headquarters of the US Navy Atlantic fleet, Norfolk awed history buffs as we cruised past reams of massive battleships poised to deploy. Charleston charmed passengers with its elegant parks, wealth of meticulously preserved colonial architecture, and an intimate visit to a lavishly decorated antebellum mansion.

Bon voyage

By the last sea day enroute to Fort Lauderdale, Polaris’ atmosphere felt like a convivial community. As a solo cruiser, I’d met engaging couples along the way. On their first cruise, Americans Michel and Wayne Stuart – she an efficiency engineer professor, he an orthopaedic doctor who had set up medical school facilities in Peru, Tanzania, and India – told me they loved travelling to “dig deep into the culture of a place.” They “loved participating in Polaris’ science research” and “experiencing culture in places we can’t visit on our own.”

Charmian Kinner and Patrick O’Reilly – who’d met while travelling in Europe – were on their third world cruise together, this time to step on their fifth continent, Antarctica. Both active couples described “spectacular” submarine dives in the Great Lakes and planned future dives in Caribbean waters. As for the Polaris vessel itself, each couple described it as “perfect for us.” What they loved best? Polaris’ small size, casual ambience, abundant meals, and friendly crew. I agreed.

Details:

Viking’s “all inclusive” expedition cruises include dining in all buffets and restaurant; wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner only; use of all thermal spa facilities and fitness equipment; watercraft excursions by Zodiac, kayak and SOB (Special Operations Boat); and guided excursions in most ports. Submarine dives cost US$499 p.p..

Viking’s 16-day ‘Canada and Atlantic Coastline’ itinerary is a segment of the Longitudinal World Cruise that starts with a Great Lakes cruise and culminates in Ushuaia for an Antarctic expedition.

In 2024 and 2025, the 61-day Longitudinal World Cruise will depart from Milwaukee in the Great Lakes.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

There were a billion reasons that 2023 was a great year for travel and tourism (ed note: not all listed here!). Other round-up highlights over the holidays included the return of Mexicana airline (in unique fashion), ongoing Boxing Week sales from tour companies, and the return of Disney product to the Air Canada Vacations portfolio.

NEWS

With almost a billion tourists having already travelled internationally in the first three-quarters of the year, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) says international tourism has almost completely recovered from the unprecedented crisis of COVID-19. According to data an estimated 975 million tourists travelled internationally between January and September 2023, an increase of 38% on the same months of 2022.

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) has entered into agreements with several airlines for a new rebate program aimed at driving better performance and passenger experience at Canada’s busiest airport. Airlines representing approximately 90% of seats at Toronto Pearson are eligible to earn rebates by achieving certain passenger volume thresholds and meeting targets related to operational performance, including on-time departures and timely baggage delivery. The arrangement starts Jan. 1.

The US Department of Transportation is investigating possible deceptive practices in airline loyalty programs after federal lawmakers raised concerns about how companies are calculating points and rewards. DOT says it is planning “to carefully review complaints regarding loyalty programs and exercise our authority to investigate airlines for unfair and deceptive practices that hurt travellers as warranted.”

AIR

Mexico launched its army-run airline Dec. 26, when the first Mexicana airline flight took off from Mexico City bound for the Caribbean resort of Tulum. The airline’s military-run holding company now also operates about a dozen airports, hotels, trains, the country’s customs service and tourist parks.

On Dec. 21, Air Transat kicked off the 2023-2024 sun season from Moncton with its first direct flight from Moncton to Cancun. Service is weekly every Thursday, and with weekly flights to Punta Cana every Friday. In February, a weekly flight to Varadero will start, as well as flights to Orlando, now offered twice weekly. Air Transat departures to sun destinations from YQM will be offered until May 2024 this season.

An expanded international air agreement between Canada and Panama will enable Copa Airlines to increase frequencies between the countries in 2024, culminating in daily service between both Toronto and Montreal starting May 20 and 21 respectively. Increased service will to Panama City will begin in March with connections to more than 60 Central America, South America, and Caribbean destinations beyond the carrier’s hub.

Fares for new Maltese national carrier KM Malta Airlines are now on sale for flights commencing on March 31, 2024. Seventeen routes include 17 routes include Amsterdam, Berlin, Brussels, Catania, Dusseldorf, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Lyon, Madrid, Munich,

DEALS

Sunwing is continuing Boxing Day week deals into the New Year with savings on vacations to Mexico, the Caribbean (including Cuba), Central America and the United States available when booked by Jan. 7, 2024. Customers can get up to $1,500 off per couple on vacation packages at over 200 hotels and resorts.

TravelBrands New Year offers continue across its multiple brands as follows: Sunquest ­– 10X Loyalty Rewards Points on bookings made between by January 2, 2024. Valid on hotel-only, add-ons, as well as Sunquest and TravelGenie packages; Cars – 3X Loyalty Rewards Points, a $25 gas card for every three cars booked, and three chances to win your rental back (through Jan. 3); Exotik Journeys –$200 off per couple, valid through Jan. 8; Encore Cruises – For any sailing on select cruise lines departing on or before July 31, each child will receive a US$50 Fun credit and a CDN$100 air credit (for bookings by Jan. 8). Info on www.travelbrandsaccess.com.

Travellers can save up to CDN$750 when booking the Feb. 4, 2024, departure on Collette’s 22-day “Australia & New Zealand Uncovered” Explorations tour.

HOTELS

The Omni Homestead Resort in in Hot Springs, (southwestern) Virginia (photo), has celebrated its official Grand Reopening after completing a US$150-million property-wide renovation project. Situated in the Allegheny Mountains, the 930-hectacre property is America’s first resort, with a history spanning 250 years and has hosted many US president and other dignitaries over the years. The resort’s iconic Warm Springs Pools underwent a meticulous 14-month, $4.6 million rehabilitation, preserving historic structures dating back to 1761.  

Banff’s newest hotel, Moxy Banff, is slated to open in January. Marketed as “a playful hotel brand for the young at heart,” Moxy is part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 brands. Originating in Europe in 2014 with the launch of Moxy Milan, Moxy now has over 125 locations across the globe.

CRUISE

MSC Cruises continued to advance its commitment to environmental sustainability by successfully connecting MSC World Europa to shore power in the port of Valetta, Malta – the first operational shore power facility in the Mediterranean. The line says it is committed to the use of shore power wherever it is available as part of its goal of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emission operations by 2050

Margaritaville at Sea is introducing three-night weekend sails from Palm Beach, Fla. to the Bahamas, including new “Saturdays at Sea” experiences, for August through December. Departing Friday and returning Monday, the three-night itinerary includes a full Saturday at sea, which will feature new dining, entertainment, and other experiences, such as a “Bottoms Up Party Brunch” with live music, special menus, and drinks. Other Saturday programming will include “Tropic Like It’s Hot” island night with suggested themed attire for passengers; new, complimentary dinner menu at the Fins main dining room; a “Sail Yeah” deck party; pickleball competitions; spa specials; casino promotions; and more.

TOURS

Air Canada Vacations is again offering Disney vacation packages to its portfolio with a choice of 29 resorts in Florida, California, and Hawaii, and packages that include flight, hotel, and theme park tickets.

Due to the conflict in the Middle East, Collette has announced that all travellers who were booked on departures to Israel through the June 30 will be refunded in full. The price paid for the tour, flights, and insurance will be refunded to any traveller who was booked on tour travelling during that timeframe, at the time of cancelation. Any travel advisor who booked travellers during this period will keep all advanced commissions paid from those bookings.

RESORTS

 Set to open in April, the adults-only Royalton CHIC Antigua is located on the northwest coast of Antigua on Dickinson Bay Beach, 20 minutes from the airport. The brand-new resort will feature 235 rooms and suites, seven restaurants, five bars and dining entertainment, sports and fitness facilities and The Royal Spa. Royalton Chic Antigua offers guests 15% off their stay when booking (available now) before the opening.

In 2024, RIU Hotels & Resorts will add two new hotels to its portfolio with the opening of Riu Palace Aquarelle, its seventh hotel in Jamaica and first in the Trelawny area of Jamaica. The 24-hour, all inclusive resort will open to travellers with 753 rooms and a wide gastronomic offering with a main buffet and five specialty restaurants – “Krystal” for fusion cuisine, “Napoli” serving Italian food; Kyoto, a Japanese restaurant; a steakhouse; and a Jerk station. Chicago will also be added to the RIU Plaza roster of urban hotels.

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

The Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto will celebrate its official Grand Opening with Gwen Stefani performing on Friday, May 3 and Blake Shelton performing on Saturday, May 4. Both performances will take place in a new, 5,000-person theatre.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

During January, Riviera River Cruises will offer wave season discounts of up to $700 p.p. on 2024 and 2025 European river cruise departures, as well as a gift card incentive for travel advisors. A $400 p.p. discount will be available on eight-day cruises, including exclusive departures for solo travellers, and a $700 p.p. discount will be available on 11- to 15-day cruises. And for every cabin booked, travel advisors will receive a $100 gift card.

Travel Advisors who book groups on American Queen Voyages have the potential to earn 10% enhanced commission on premium shore excursions, pre- or post-stay city stays and travel insurance.

EVENTS

The Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) hosts free educational webinars for registrants to address common compliance questions. New webinar dates in 2024 have been added for sessions covering advertising, disclosure and invoicing, trust accounting, and preparing the verification statement. For information, click HERE.

US Travel has revealed its cities and dates for its signature IPW travel trade conference through to the end of the decade. Following previously announced Los Angeles (May 3-7, 2024) and Chicago (June 14-18, 2025), the next shows will be held in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – May 18-22, 2026; New Orleans – May 3-7, 2027; Detroit – June 10-14, 2028; Denver – May 19-23, 2029; and Anaheim, Ca. June 1-5, 2020.

DESTINATIONS

Canada’s largest food and drink celebration is returning with more restaurants than ever. Dine Out Vancouver Festival kicks off Jan. 17 for 19 days of feasting fun, showing over the city’s culinary scene through Feb. 4.

The twin-island destination of Antigua and Barbuda has revealed plans for Antigua and Barbuda Wellness Month with visitors and residents invited to immerse themselves in the destination’s enriching wellness experiences as they start anew in January. Hosted by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Antigua and Barbuda Wellness Month offers those seeking to enhance their quality of life a selection of carefully curated activities in resorts and in local communities, ranging from wellness retreats, spa experiences, hiking trail exploration, off-shore island excursions with yoga on secluded beaches, culturally immersive experiences and healthy eating options.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1986, the first non-stop flight around the world without refuelling was completed as the airplane “Voyager” landed safely in the Mojave Desert after nine days, three minutes and 44 seconds in the air. The pilot was US Air Force Col. Dick Ruton and the co-pilot was Jeana Yeager.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

We get hundreds of news notifications and press releases every day, which means thousands each week and, well, you get the idea… That means that all the news that’s fit to print (or post these days) doesn’t always make it. Here’s a wrap for 2023 of our inbox, with some worthy news bites that we missed the first time around – and maybe you did too!

CANADA

The Montreal Holocaust Museum has started construction of its new home at 3535 Saint-Laurent Boulevard in the Plateau Mont-Royal borough. Construction is expected to be completed in late 2025, followed by an official public opening of the museum by June 2026.

The relocation and expansion project addresses growing public interest in Holocaust history and human rights. In November 2023, the museum recorded the highest number of visitors in its history.

With the closing of the Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023, the flag for the next Games was handed over to Canada, which will host event in 2025. The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 will bring together more than 500 competitors from up to 25 nations to compete in adaptive sports, including the new winter sports: alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, skeleton, and wheelchair curling, in addition to the core sports of indoor rowing, sitting volleyball, swimming, wheelchair basketball and wheelchair rugby.

INTERNATIONAL

The Hawaii Tourism Authority will undertake a six-month action plan for 2024 to help address the aftermath of wildfire damage including increasing visibility and call-to-action for travel to Hawaii targeting high-potential travel markets in the US and Canada.

The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation announced a historic achievement in tourism, with the country welcoming a record-breaking eight million annual visitors in 2023.

AIR

 Air Canada announced a partnership with the new Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) ahead of its inaugural season opener on January 1, 2024. The deal sees Air Canada become an Inaugural Premier Partner of the PWHL and Official Airline for the league’s first six teams, reflecting its deep passion for hockey and sharing the best of Canada with the world.

In late November, Emirates became the world’s first airline to operate an A380 demonstration flight using 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Departing from Dubai International Airport, this historic flight underscores Emirates’ ongoing commitment to sustainable aviation practices.

Travelport launched Lufthansa Group airlines’ NDC content and servicing capabilities in the Travelport+ platform. Agents using Travelport+ will be able to easily search and compare NDC offers from the Lufthansa Group airlines, which include Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa, SWISS and Air Dolomiti. Travelport also announced a renewed agreement with Virgin Atlantic.

Travel agents will soon have more ways to access to Qantas’ New Distribution Capability (NDC) content through a new portal the airline is launching in 2024. From February, the portal will give agents who may not access Qantas NDC content via an Approved Technology Partner the ability to shop, book and service flights using the capabilities of the Qantas Distribution Platform.

TOUR COMPANIES

Transat A.T. Inc. entered into a sale and purchase agreement for its 50% equity interest in the Armony Luxury Resort & Spa, Marival Collection (previously known as Rancho Banderas All Suites Resort), located near Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific coast of Mexico (the “Hotel”), to its co-shareholder, the owner of the Marival Group. The transaction in the amount of US$15.5 million is expected to close during Transat’s 2024 first quarter. The divestiture of Transat in the hotel is aligned with the Corporation’s strategic plan to refocus on its airline activities.

Intrepid Travel reported that it achieved record sales month globally in November and recorded its highest sales day in company history thanks to its annual Cyber Sale. This year’s record numbers also included the biggest day for North American sales ever, topping the previous record by 32%. Top selling destinations for North Americans included Ecuador, Morocco, Peru, Vietnam and Croatia, with Ecuador climbing a notable six spots in the rankings from last year to claim the top booked in the 2023 sale.

CRUISE

On Dec. 4, Carnival Cruise Line welcomed Carnival Jubilee (photo), its third Excel-class ship and 26^th vessel in the fleet and immediately began departures from Galveston, Texas.

Royal Caribbean International’s revealed that sports “icon” Lionel Messi will be the official Icon of Icon of the Seas, which debuts in January. The most decorated football (soccer) player in history, Messi will welcome the new ship at an exclusive naming celebration in Miami.

Viking announced it’s bringing an additional 10 Viking Longships to its river fleet in the coming years. To meet strong demand for European river voyages, eight of the new vessels will sail Viking’s popular itineraries on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers, while two additional Viking Longships will join the fleet on the Seine River. The total order is also inclusive of one Viking Longship for the Seine River that was announced in February 2023. Five of the new vessels will be delivered in 2025, with the remaining five to be delivered in 2026.

Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle brand of the MSC Group, unveiled sailings for EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II through to April 2026. The carefully curated journeys offer an array of different length sailings ranging from shorter journeys of between six to eight nights, through to longer voyages of 19 to 21 nights and offer accessible homeports such as Barcelona, Civitavecchia/ Rome, Miami, or Bridgetown. The journeys are designed to allow for a slower pace of travel, and to give travellers the opportunity to spend more time in each destination with overnight stays.

A full summer season in French Polynesia will be a first for Silversea, which opened a pre-sale on 17 voyages between April and September 2026 aboard Silver Whisper.  The ultra-luxury travel brand will operate two itineraries in rotation, offering deep immersion into 11 of some of the world’s most remote destinations in three of the region’s five archipelagos — the Society, Tuamotu, and Marquesas Islands.

Also open for booking:

• Cunard’s Alaska 2025 season, featuring roundtrip sailings from Seattle ranging from 7 to 11 nights, from June 12 until Sept 25.
• Bookings are now open for Holland America Line‘s 2025-2026 South America and Antarctica season, featuring a series of longer cruises up to 22 days aboard the Oosterdam.
• MSC World Cruise 2026 on the MSC Magnifica will include embarkation options from four European ports – Civitavecchia for Rome, Genoa (Italy), Marseille (France), and Barcelona (Spain) on Jan. 4, 5, 6 and 7, 2026 respectively. The new 119-day route will visit 47 destinations in 32 countries, with seven overnight stays and full day stays in all other calls along the way.

HOTELS & RESORTS

The Sheraton Gateway, attached to Terminal 3 at Pearson Toronto International Airport, now has day passes for guest rooms and club lounge access. Day Passes are available from 9 am to 5 p.m. and cost from $225. Club Lounge Passes are available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and cost $129.

Warwick Hotels & Resorts opened its first property in Canada. Warwick Le Crystal – Montréal features 131 rooms and suites and follows WHR’s core strategy, namely, having hotels located in the centre of commercial, cultural, and gastronomic activities of international gateway cities.

Elite Island Resorts’ first-ever loyalty program offers discounted rates and value-added perks for its regular clientele at its eight properties located in Antigua, Barbados, the Grenadines and Panama. Highlights of the program include 15% off when booked nine months or more in advance; 10% off when booked six months or more in advance; 5% for less than six months in advance; plus, the privilege of extending VIP discounts to up to two additional rooms, accommodating friends or family traveling on the same dates. Discounts applicable year-round across all room categories and resorts.

The members of Relais & Châteaux‘s World Culinary Council voted to remove eel from their own menus and are sending a call to action to the rest of the group’s 580 hotels and restaurants to do the same. The European eel, which is featured in menus all over the world – and revered in certain French, Spanish, Belgian, Dutch and Japanese culinary cultures – is considered critically endangered and features on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.

Aqua-Aston Hospitality completed the shift to bulk bathroom amenities across its Hawaii properties, which has eliminated 5.5 million pieces of single-use plastic waste from its operations. The brand seeks to help further limit single-use plastic in Hawaii by providing complimentary tote bags and reusable water bottles to A-List subscribers.

The non-profit Iberostar Foundation and Planeterra have launched an ambitious program to promote community tourism initiatives by nearly a million potential travellers in 35 communities where the hotel group operates by 2030.The initiative has been piloted in Mexico and the Dominican Republic where Iberostar has 18 hotels and resorts.

Anticipated to open in 2027, the Four Seasons Hotel Shanghai will soar 44 storeys high with 160 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites in the Chinese city.

Margaritaville and Karisma Hotels & Resorts are planning an new resort under all-inclusive Island Reserve Inclusive Collection banner in Roatan, Honduras. The new-build is expected to completed in 2025.

DESTINATIONS

More than 30 years in the making, the new Louisiana Civil Rights Museum in New Orleans (image above) honours Louisiana’s unique place in the national Civil Rights movement as well as its heroes, demonstrating their impact and significance today. The museum is part of the ongoing Civil Rights Trail, which since spring 2021, has unveiled 13 markers around the state.

Located in Geneva, Switzerland, the renowned European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) inaugurated its groundbreaking Science Gateway, designed to be a visionary hub for science education and outreach. The state-of-the-art facility represents a significant milestone in scientific engagement and welcomes curious minds from the age of five and above. The attraction is open Tues-Thurs with with exhibitions and activities from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Better still, it’s free.

The tiny Caribbean island of Dominica is creating the world’s first marine protected area for one of earth’s largest animals: the endangered sperm whale. Nearly 800 sq. km. of royal blue waters on the western side of the island nation that serve as key nursing and feeding grounds will be designated as a reserve, the government announced.

Michelin recently recognized 26 Denver restaurants in their inaugural Colorado-based Guide. The famously anonymous MICHELIN Guide inspectors selected a diverse range of restaurants across the city that exude culinary excellence. More info about the venues is available on the Visit Denver website.

New York’s Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum has sent its Concorde supersonic jet away for a facelift. The British Airways Concorde that still holds the record for the fastest transatlantic crossing by a passenger aircraft: 2 hours, 52 minutes and 59 seconds from Heathrow to JFK. The plane will be out of commission until the spring of 2024.

More than 50 works by Hans Holbein the Younger from the Royal Collection, including drawings, paintings, and miniatures, are on display at The Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace in London in the largest UK exhibition of the artist’s work in over 15 years. Running through April, ‘Holbein at the Tudor Court’ brings together more than 100 objects to chart the career and legacy of the great Renaissance artist at Henry VIII’s court. At the heart of the exhibition are more than 40 of Holbein’s intimate portrait drawings of the royal family and the Tudor nobility, particularly Henry VIII.

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First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News