Global Travel News

With Seabourn marking a major construction milestone for its second purpose-built expedition vessel Seabourn Pursuit with a traditional coin ceremony at Italian shipyard this month, there was no better time for the company to call in Canada for sessions with the trade to highlight the cruise line’s growing expedition travel segment.

Seabourn execs visited Vancouver earlier this month and Toronto a week later as part of a 12-date North American roadshow that attracted over 600 agents for training sessions and evening sales events during which they could bring clients. It was the first in-person events hosted by the company in Canada since the pandemic.

On the agenda for agents was an introduction to Seabourn Expedition ships; product/ experience/ expedition team/ destinations; booking in Polar Online; and packages and pricing courtesy of Seabourn presenters Mark Spillane, director of expedition sales; Jen Martin, director of expedition product development; and Maxine Gundermann, sr. manager of strategic accounts.

Attending agents also received exclusive booking incentives and offers, including shipboard credits, savings, and reduced deposits.

Underlining the presentations was Seabourn’s now 12-year history in expedition history, which has opened doors beyond the cruise line’s mainline ultra-luxury offerings:

• In 2011, Seabourn announced its entrance into expedition cruising, culminating in the maiden voyage in Antarctica in 2013 of Seabourn Quest (capacity 450 guests).

• In 2015 expedition-style cruising was extended into other regions of the world on multiple ships through the special curated program Ventures by Seabourn, offering optional exploration via Zodiac and kayak lead by expedition guides in Alaska, Australia, Norwegian Fjords and more on select voyages.

• In 2018 Seabourn announced the order of two purpose-built ships, with a capacity of 264 guests, for launch in 2022 (Seabourn Venture) and 2023 (Seabourn Pursuit) respectively.

Spillane explained the characteristics of Seabourn’s “expedition cruising” style: smaller vessels sailing adventurous itineraries to bucket destinations in remote regions. But mostly, they are expeditions certain to provide “life-changing moments,” he said.

He noted that while ships follow set itineraries, flexibility is the key, with captains able to alter course to take advantage wildlife encounters, for example, or mitigate sea or weather conditions for the comfort of passengers.

All the while, doing it in “uncompromised ultra luxury,” he added, giving the example that passengers can come back from excursions from “the wild” to a hot cup of hot chocolate or liqueur, and a soak in a hot tub.

Guests are also provided with appropriate amenities, ranging from binoculars to parkas, backpacks, and water bottles.

“Expedition cruising really is a really special kind of thing,” Jen Martin told the audience, noting that passengers get the chance to see things “they would otherwise never have a chance to see.”

And to that end, she adds, the difference between traditional and expedition cruising is that the focus is on the destination, more so than the ship, no matter how beautiful a platform it is.

“People don’t choose an expedition just for the ship, they choose it because they want to see Antarctica, or the Arctic, or a different view of the British Isles, or the South Pacific and Papua New Guinea,” she said. “And the expedition team is a big part of that experience.”

To that end, Seabourn ships, offer a wide range of expedition activities led by an expert 24-person team of scientists, scholars, naturalists, and more. Complimentary offerings such as Zodiac cruises, hikes, nature walks, scuba diving, and snorkeling highlight every itinerary, as do curated complimentary excursions.

In addition, the ships offer optional shore excursions and optional Seabourn Expeditions with kayaking and two custom-built submersibles at select destinations, providing close-up views of wildlife and natural scenery, as well as unique intimacy beneath the waves.

And while Seabourn’s expedition cruising is “anchored” by the Arctic and Antarctic, it also offers “everything in between,” says Martin.

Seabourn Pursuit

The next programming evolution for the cruise line will be the introduction at the end of July of Seabourn Pursuit, which is currently in its outfitting dock and is undergoing final construction at the Mariotti shipyard in Genoa.

At the recent coin ceremony, Marco Ghiglione, managing director of T. Mariotti, enthused, “Seabourn Pursuit is so beautiful. At a time when the expedition cruise market is experiencing strong growth, with several players preparing to launch new products, I can proudly say that this ship is the best in terms of aesthetics and cutting-edge performance.”

Beginning Aug. 12, Seabourn Pursuit will sail five voyages in the Mediterranean before embarking on two voyages across the Atlantic and through the Caribbean. On Oct. 10, the ship will arrive in Barbados from where it will begin its expedition journeys, exploring coastal South America, the Amazon, and Antarctica into late March 2024.

Following its inaugural Antarctic season, the ship will head to the South Pacific and Australia, which will include the line’s first exploration of the Kimberley region in northern Australia between June and August 2024.

In addition to the Kimberley, Seabourn Pursuit will visit Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and sail to the South Pacific from Chile to Melanesia between March and October 2024.

The second of Seabourn’s two new expedition ships to debut in the past two years, the 170 m. vessel is purpose-built for diverse environments to PC6 Polar Class standards and equipped with state-of-the-art hardware and technology to extend its global employment and capabilities. The ship has close to 287 sq. m. of deck space and special touches at every turn. Those include indoor and outdoor guest areas with nearly 270-degree views, and a 4K GSS Cineflex Camera mounted on the mast of the Constellation Lounge capable of broadcasting imagery from up to 8 km away on monitors located throughout the ship.

In summary, Spillane said Seabourn combines “true luxury on board and true expedition on shore” for guests, making for the “best of both worlds.” And that, he says, “is our big differentiator.”

It used to be that people had to sacrifice luxury in the expedition segment. “Now,” he says, “they no longer have to.”

Maxine Gundermann advised that Seabourn provides extensive tools for the travel trade to help sell its cruises, including expeditions. That includes a promotional tool kit and images, online booking capabilities, and travel agent academy. For details, visit goseabourn.com.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Whether you’re going to the London for the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla on May 6, or just happen to be toddling through town at the time, the historic event is guaranteed to be an all-encompassing experience for both residents and visitors, with both pleasures and annoyances certain to reveal themselves in the days leading up to, and during, Coronation Weekend.

I was living in London for the summer when Charles and Diana tied the knot on July 29, 1981 – perhaps the most comparable event in the UK in recent memory. And what I remember most is crowds like I had never seen before.

Indeed, for the upcoming Coronation – less than a fortnight away – authorities are warning with typical British understatement: “Please be aware that large crowds are expected!”

Additionally, there will be road closures in place to ensure the event is delivered safely and public transport services are likely to be very busy with some station closures and bus diversions, especially around the Westminster and Hyde Park areas.

Nevertheless, for those who are there, the spectacle should be embraced, not feared, and with a little prep, will be remembered fondly and forever.

After all, the Coronation will mark the crowning of Britain’s 62nd monarch and continues the tradition of every event having taken place at Westminster Abbey since 1066, with the first being William the Conqueror. And with 1,200 years of history behind them, the royal family knows a few things about celebrating tradition and hosting spectacular events.

Here’s what you need to know:

Where and when: May 6

The first procession will begin on the morning of May 6. Their Majesties will travel in procession in the Diamond Jubilee State Coach, drawn by six Windsor Grey horses, from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey. This is known as ‘The King’s Procession.’ The Household Cavalry will provide the Sovereign’s Escort.

The King’s Procession will travel along The Mall, through Admiralty Arch, passing to the south of the King Charles Island statue in Trafalgar Square before turning onto Whitehall. The procession will continue down Whitehall and along the east and south sides of Parliament Square, arriving at Westminster Abbey.The Coronation service will begin at 11 a.m. at Westminster Abbey.

After the Coronation service, their Majesties will return to Buckingham Palace as part of a larger ceremonial procession, known as ‘The Coronation Procession.’ They will travel in the Gold State Coach, drawn by eight Windsor Grey horses.

The procession will arrive at Buckingham Palace in the afternoon where they will receive a salute from the United Kingdom and Commonwealth Armed Forces in the Buckingham Palace Gardens, and appear on the Buckingham Palace balcony. There will then be a ceremonial flypast.

How to watch

In person

People can watch the Coronation processions in person at viewing areas on both sides of The Mall and Whitehall along the procession route in London (note: there are no screens along the route to watch the Coronation).

* Be aware that, like royal wedding of 1981, people may arrive the night before (if not days) before to secure the best viewing spots along the route.

On screen

The processions and service will be shown on screening sites around the country; and other local celebrations, street parties, and events will be held.

In London there will the screening sites at Hyde Park (four screens), Green Park, and St James’s Park – open from 6 a.m. on Saturday May 6. Authorities note the latter two parks are smaller than Hyde Park and will reach capacity quickly and will be closed when filled.

For those who don’t want to camp out or fight the crowds, both processions and the Coronation service will be broadcast live on national television, radio and online.

The afternoon after

After the Coronation Procession has passed down The Mall, police will open the route to allow people to move onto the road. People will be able to walk down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace, to watch the balcony appearance. The police will monitor crowd numbers and gradually open the viewing areas, to ensure that everyone stays safe and secure.

What to bring

• Suitable clothing for the weather conditions. You may want to bring warm, protective clothing or an umbrella in cold or wet weather, or sunscreen and a hat if it is likely to be sunny.

• A water bottle. There will be water refill stations at the viewing areas and screening sites where you can refill bottles. There will also be concession kiosks available where you can buy food and drinks, but you may want to bring your own refreshments (particularly if you have specific dietary requirements).

• Appropriate footwear. You will be required to stand outdoors for long periods, so you are advised to wear comfortable shoes.

• If you are visiting the screening sites at Hyde Park, St James’s Park, or The Green Park, you may want to bring a blanket, stool, or folding chair to sit on as the viewing screens are located in grassy areas (but note there may not be space to use or store them). Do not bring stools or folding chairs to the procession route viewing areas.

(And not to bring)

• Barbecues and equipment for fires.
• Glass items. Broken glass is a hazard to other visitors and wildlife and can be difficult to remove. If you bring your own refreshments, please use paper or plastic cups for your drinks.
• If you are visiting the procession route viewing areas, do not bring stools or folding chairs.
• Oh, and, of course, no drones!

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

MSC Cruises’ summer 2023 itineraries include an expansive list of 140 destinations, including renowned hotspots and options off-the-beaten-path destinations. Featuring 22 ships, the cruise line will post more vessels than ever in the Eastern Mediterranean, plus three vessels in the Caribbean with New York as a new embarkation point.

Here are seven summer highlights from the industry’s third largest and fastest-growing cruise line.

1. Copenhagen, Denmark: Known as one of Northern Europe’s trendiest capitals and the 2023 UNESCO World Capital of Architecture, Copenhagen is the perfect destination to explore aboard MSC Cruises’ newest ship MSC Euribia – launching in June. The historic city offers an abundance of awe-inspiring landmarks for visitors to explore, from the renowned Christiansborg Palace on the island of Slotsholmen to the cutting-edge architecture of Christiania. Guests can also take advantage of MSC Cruises’ long list of shore excursions, including a visit to Dragør, known for its picturesque alleyways, cobbled streets and traditional brightly painted Danish houses.

Beyond Copenhagen, MSC Euribia’s seven-night Northern Europe itineraries offer guests a chance to discover the captivating cities of Kiel, Germany; Hellesylt, Alesund, and Flaam, Norway.

2. Svalbard, Norway: Only available for four sailings in summer 2023, Svalbard is an exclusive destination on MSC Preziosa’s itineraries for adventurous guests wishing to explore the Arctic Circle. The Svalbard islands form the most remote province of Northern Europe, a mere 800 km. from the North Pole. MSC Cruises’ PROTECTOURS sustainable tour program offers a unique experience to discover fjords by a hybrid-electric catamaran, allowing guests to enjoy views of the spectacular Svalbard landscapes while keeping their eyes peeled for seals. Guests can also take advantage of the many other adventurous excursions available to explore this unique destination, discovering the Arctic on a hybrid-electric speedboat to visit a walrus colony or e-biking through polar bear country – home to more than 3,000 polar bears.

Svaldbard (port name – Longyearbyen) is included on four sailings this summer aboard MSC Preziosa, with itineraries available for 14- or 15-night sailings from Hamburg, Germany.

3. Zakynthos, Greece: The spectacular Greek Island of Zakynthos is a brand-new destination for MSC Cruises. Here, white pebbled shorelines meet turquoise-blue waters, and rugged clifftops, such as Kampi, offer breath-taking views of the sea. Soak up the island’s atmosphere of local traditions or explore its ancient culture. Among the many hotspots to discover, guests can take in the limestone cliffs, historical monasteries, and the iconic Shipwreck Beach, one of Greece’s most stunning sites.

Zakynthos is included on all weekly seven-night summer itineraries for MSC Lirica beginning in May.

4. Istanbul and Kusadasi, Turkey: A witness to some of the world’s most powerful empires, including Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman, Turkey is abundant with ancient relics and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Renowned for its sweeping ocean vistas, bustling bazaars, archaeological wonders, and stunning landscapes, Turkey has something to suit every type of guest.

Guests will also have the opportunity to explore Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, reaching across the Bosphorous, from Europe to Asia. Filled with incredible historic landmarks, vibrant culture, delicious cuisine and marvellous architecture, the options are plenty. Excursion options include visiting the world-famous sites such as the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace. For added convenience, Fly, Stay & Cruise packages will be available for Istanbul through Turkish Airlines. Depending on the departure airport, guests can arrive one, two or three nights before the cruise to enjoy the city to its fullest. Flights will depart from many of the major European airports including the United Kingdom, Germany and Switzerland, among others.

Kusadasi is a glamorous beach resort overlooking the glittering Aegean Sea, from where guests can visit the magnificent city of Ephesus, acclaimed for its well-preserved ancient ruins. Both cities are included as part of MSC Splendida’s eight-, nine- and 10-night Eastern Mediterranean cruises.5. Messina, Sicily: MSC World Europa, the line’s new flagship, which launched in November 2022, will offer sailings to the ever-popular Western Mediterranean this summer, sailing seven-night cruises to Genoa, Naples and Messina (Italy), Valletta (Malta), Barcelona (Spain) and Marseille (France). Messina offers the first sight of Sicily, with the glittering town spread up the hillside beyond its sickle-shaped Mediterranean harbour.

The first liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered vessel in MSC Cruises’ fleet and the most environmentally advanced to date, is an ultramodern urban metropolis at sea designed to offer a world of new and exciting experience to guests, defining the future of cruising.

6. Japan: This summer, MSC Cruises is offering six sailings from Yokohama, Japan. These carefully crafted itineraries allow guests to journey through ancient cultures, discovering Japanese art, history, and traditions, as well as the country’s vibrant and modern present. Depending on the itinerary, one destination highlight of the eight- and nine-night cruises is Kyushu, recently featured as one of Architectural Digest’s 23 Places to Travel in 2023. MSC Cruises offers two stops on this island at Kagoshima, a seaside city best known for Sakurajima, an active volcano that faces Kinko Bay; and Fukoaka, a city considered to be one of Japan’s hidden gems.

Other highlights include Naha, from Okinawa – the capital of the Okinawa Prefecture, the tropical island group south of mainland Japan. It’s known for Shuri Castle, the restored royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom, which flourished from the 1400s–1800s and invented karate. MSC Bellisima offers sailings beginning in June departing from Yokohama, conveniently located just south of Tokyo.

7. Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve: Since first welcoming guests in 2019, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve has become a highlight for all MSC Cruises’ Caribbean itineraries. This private island destination was founded on a strong commitment to the conservation of marine life, including habitats and species present in the area, and exists in harmony with the local ecosystem.

Thanks to a number of initiatives, including the MSC Foundation’s Supercoral Program, which aims to restore endangered corals, and the implementation of other conservation and educational programs, the island has been transformed into a lush paradise that offers more than two miles of white sandy beaches, surrounded by endless sweeping vistas of crystal blue waters, where guests can soak up the vibrant spirit of The Bahamas.

Guests can reach Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve on MSC Seascape, which offers seven- or 14-night sailings from Miami, MSC Meraviglia from New York and MSC Seaside from Port Canaveral/Orlando.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Strike news affecting travel abounded last week – including news that flights at Berlin Brandenburg are cancelled today (April 24); there was also big news from Air Canada, Sunwing deals, a Holland America Line milestone, and ACTA revealing Travel Agent Day plans in a couple of weeks.

NEWS

Berlin Brandenburg airport reports no departures will take place today (Monday) due to a strike by security workers. The German airport warns that arriving flights may be affected as well. The job action follows walkouts in Duesseldorf, Hamburg, Cologne-Bonn, and Stuttgart late last week, which resulted in 700 cancelled departures.

Less than a week before the end of conciliation, WestJet pilots sent “a strong message” to WestJet management with an overwhelming vote of support for a strike, should a negotiated settlement not be reached by May 16. The union representing WestJet pilots, the Air Line Pilots Association, says 95% of its members voted and 93% voted to strike if needed. WestJet said, “A strike authorization vote is a common step by unions in context of the overall labour negotiation process and does not mean a strike will occur.”

Canadian passport renewals were largely halted (except emergencies) when federal public service workers went on strike Wednesday. Employment and Social Development Canada said essential services such as employment insurance and social insurance numbers will be maintained, but passport services are not deemed essential.

A parliamentary committee has recommended sweeping changes to Canada’s air passenger rights framework, stressing tougher enforcement and compensation rules around flight delays. The report comes after chaotic travel seasons over the summer and winter holidays brought on by soaring demand, labour shortages and poor weather. Its 21 recommendations include bigger monetary penalties, smoother processing of compensation claims and automatic payout offers after cancellations, significant delays, or denial of boarding.

Consumers who purchased Interjet Airlines travel services from an Ontario registered travel agency or booking website and did not receive their travel services due to the closure of the airline, may file a claim from the Compensation Fund for reimbursement, reports TICO. The airline ceased operations on Dec. 11, 2020, and was declared bankrupt on April 10, 2023.

BY THE NUMBERS

At US$1.2 trillion, direct spending on travel in the United States in 2022 was on par with pre-pandemic figures, according to new data released by the US Travel Association. Travel accounted for $1.2 trillion in direct spending in 2022, which produced an economic footprint of $2.6 trillion and supported nearly 15 million American workers – 8 million directly employed by the travel industry. Travel-generated tax revenue alleviated an average of $1,270 in taxes per US household.

AIR

Air Canada has announced its New Distribution Capabilities (NDC) program, featuring new benefits, expanded content and additional trade support for agencies and travel buyers. The airline says the program will provide a competitive alternative to legacy distribution, giving agents access to Air Canada inventory, fares, ancillary services, ticketing, and digital products.

Porter Airlines is extending a special offer to all frequent WestJet travellers that provides immediate access to its VIPorter loyalty program Avid Traveller membership. The Avid Traveller level granted will be based on the current WestJet rewards level. Travellers interested in matching their status will receive a trial VIPorter Avid Traveller membership for 120 days with the ability to maintain that level through Dec. 31, 2024, based on achieving a reduced qualifying spend threshold. Every dollar spent on Porter, excluding taxes and fees, is applied to the spend goal. The offer expires May 31; details on Porter’s website.

Officials with Vancouver International Airport are promising new real-time weather monitoring equipment, gate protocols and better communication after releasing a review of the travel chaos caused by snow last December. The review, which also took into account direct feedback from over 1,500 passengers and members of the public identified 25 actions that the airport says will be addressed in a $40-million action plan.

DEALS

New York City Tourism + Conventions has announced the return of ‘It’s Time for Culture’ with offerings at nearly 100 cultural organizations across all five boroughs, available May 9-21. The program, comprising seasonal events, concerts, tours, classes, family-friendly programs and more, kicks off the unofficial start of the New York City summer cultural season. A full list of organizations and offerings are available at nyctourism.com/timeforculture.

TOURS

Quark Expeditions has announced a brand-new cutting-edge Greenland itinerary constructed around Ultramarine’s two twin-engine helicopters – and brought to life with local Greenlandic partners, enabling guests to experience what Quark is calling the most innovative itinerary in its 32-year history. The 11-day ‘Greenland Explorer: Sail and Soar the Alpine Arctic’ will launch in 2024 and feature such activities as an Inuit culinary experience, camping along the Tasemiut Fjord, northern lights and cultural immersion, and plenty of helicopter flights and activities such as heli-hiking (photo).

Sunwing is aiming to bring the “feel good spirit of summer” to life with new deals, giveaways, as well as social media via content creators Clive Felice and Anthony Tran. “Through thoughtful questions and sharp wit, Clive and Antho will help Sunwing bring feel-good moments from the city streets to paradise in a variety of fun and dynamic ways,” says the tour operator. Check out their first videos at https://www.instagram.com/p/CrONoXLxNiL/ and https://www.instagram.com/p/CrOUNJeA0c3/. Sunwing will also feature a lineup of promotions and hot deals to hotter destinations, including deals under $999 deals on packages to Cuba during the tour operator’s ‘Summer Starts Now Sale.’

HOTELS

Going on a Beatles or football pilgrimage to Liverpool? IHG Hotels & Resorts is introducing its Vignette Collection to the UK with the signing of The Halyard at Ropewalks Liverpool in partnership with Molo Hotels. Opening later this year, the 133-key luxury hotel is set in the historic Ropewalks district in the heart of the city, boasting a restaurant, on-site gym, and roof top terrace that will further boost the area’s reputation as a gastronomic hub.

To kick off the 2023 baseball season, the InterContinental Toronto Centre, located beside Rogers Centre, is offering a ‘Stay and Dine’ package to get sports fans fueled for the game. The package offers guests a $100 credit for food and beverages.

RESORTS

St. James’s Club Morgan Bay St. Lucia has closed for extensive enhancements. During this full closure, the resort will undergo a brand change to Secrets St. Lucia Resort & Spa, with a planned reopening date in the fourth quarter of 2023.

Renovations and additions to the Club Med Punta Cana resort will begin in August. Built in 1978, the resort will see 90 newly renovated family rooms, including 48 brand-new Family Superior rooms and 36 Family Deluxe rooms, as well as a complete transformation of the resort’s main oceanfront restaurant, Hispaniola, into a venue that resembles a Caribbean Beach Bistro inspired by Punta Cana’s vibrant art, music, and culture. Additionally, the resort will welcome a new on-site wedding venue that can accommodate up to 250 guests and will feature a covered outdoor terrace ideal for tropical cocktail hours, receptions, and ceremonies.

CRUISE

The MSC Meraviglia arrived at her new homeport in New York City at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. The arrival of the ship marks the first time MSC Cruises has deployed a ship in New York operating year-round sailings with a mix of itineraries, ranging from six-to 11-nights, that were strategically designed to take advantage of New York’s geographic flexibility, so that guests can soak up the sun in the Caribbean during the spring and winter seasons, head to Bermuda during the summer, or go north to see Canada’s natural beauty in the autumn.

Holland America Line’s flagship Rotterdam arrived at the Port of Rotterdam, the Netherlands, April 18, following a 150th Anniversary crossing from Fort Lauderdale. The ship’s arrival on the exact date of Holland America Line’s 150th birthday kicked off all-day celebrations that included royalty, local dignitaries, port officials and guests who commemorated the special day. “The celebration of 150 years is about more than our history, it’s about how we are building on the legacy of a great brand to make it relevant for the next 150 years,” said HAL President Gus Antorcha.

ATTRACTIONS

The Global Tourism Film Festival 2023 kicks off this week (April 27-30) in North Bay, Ont. with organizers noting that special programming will take place that recognizes film, accomplishment, and advancement of Indigenous Peoples, People of Colour, and Women in film and tourism. Notable will be the presentation of the the award-winning indigenous feature film ‘Monkey Beach’ by filmmaker L. Sarah Todd. For full details and other festival information, visit HERE.

The Ontario Science Centre will be moving to a revamped Ontario Place on Toronto’s waterfront. Premier Doug Ford unveiled plans for the next stage of a redeveloped Ontario Place that includes the new location for the science centre, an expanded amphitheatre, a public beach, bars, restaurants, a new marina, and a massive spa. Construction on the new science centre will begin in 2025 with its opening scheduled for 2028, the science centre said.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

With its ‘Spring into ’24 Groups Only’ incentive, Goway is offering travel agents a $100 bonus cash on all group bookings for travel in 2024 in addition to regular rewards on group bookings with the GowayPro Loyalty Program. The incentive is available on all group bookings (excluding air only) deposited through May 13, 2023, for travel in 2024.

Agents who book their clients a Blue Diamond Resorts vacation package with Sunwing at participating properties with Royalton Luxury Resorts, Mystique by Royalton, Grand Memories Resorts & Spa, Memories Resorts & Spa and Starfish Resorts in Cuba by April 30, for departures between through Oct. 31, will be automatically entered for a chance to win a free seven-night stay at Memories Jibacoa in Varadero or Villa Caprice in Cayo Largo. Clients are also eligible for special perks during the promotion.

EVENTS

As part of Travel Agent Day events, ACTA is inviting all agents to take part in a session with trained trauma expert and educator Dr. Erin Watson, who has over 20 year’s experience developing and leading psycho-educational programs to support mental, emotional, and inter-personal health of individuals, families, and communities. Those who participate will be eligible to win a four-night stay for two at the new Sandals Dunn’s River Resort, Jamaica courtesy of Sandals Resorts including air for two courtesy of Air Canada. The event takes place May 3 from 3 to 4 p.m. EDT. Register HERE.

Ensemble Summit will take place from June 4-7 at the Forbes Five-Star Stein Eriksen Lodge in Utah. As a high-level executive getaway, the event will host

Ensemble agency management and senior partner leaders to focus on business building, fuel collaboration, and harness the collective knowledge of the participants to support and foster growth within the participants’ respective companies.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Airline and travel industry veteran Adam Wilcox has been appointed Commercial Director Canada and the United States for Plaza Premium Group, responsible for planning, developing, and implementing the commercial strategies in Canada and the US the Group’s portfolio brands, which includes Plaza Premium Lounges.

DESTINATIONS

The glittering world of the Georgian court comes head-to-head with the high glamour of the modern-day red carpet in a new exhibition at Kensington Palace – famously a stage set for historic fashion – in London (photo). ‘Crown to Couture’ sees contemporary couture worn by high profile celebrities including Lizzo and Lady Gaga, displayed alongside historic costume – drawing fascinating parallels between the world of the red carpet and the world of the Royal Court in the eighteenth century. The largest exhibition ever staged at the palace, over 200 fascinating objects are on display across the glittering State Apartments and intimate exhibition spaces. The exhibition runs until Oct. 29.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1912, the British luxury liner “RMS Titanic” sank in the North Atlantic off Newfoundland at 2:20 a.m. ship’s time, more than 2 1/2 hours after striking an iceberg; 1,514 people died, while less than half as many survived.

Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News