Global Travel News

JAMAICA COOKS UP TASTY AGENT INCENTIVE

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The Jamaica Tourist Board’s recently launched ‘Jamaica Cooking Challenge’ invites travel advisors to recreate a taste of the island at home. Each month, the JTB Canada sales team releases a new cooking video featuring an authentic Jamaican recipe prepared with step-by-step instructions by Chef Latoya Fagan. Agents are encouraged to prepare the recipe at home and share a photo of their finished dish for a chance to win monthly prizes.

Travel advisors will have the chance to learn how to cook a variety of traditional Jamaican dishes throughout the year and gain a new appreciation for the destination’s rich culinary heritage.

The Jamaica Cooking Challenge 2023 recipe lineup includes:

• April: Jamaican Curried Goat
• May: Salt Fish Callaloo Fritters
• June: Corned Beef
• July: Red Pea Soup
• August: Patty Supreme
• September: Escovitch Fish
• October: Coconut Cake
• November: Fish Sandwich
• December: Pepper Shrimp

Jamaica’s expert foodie panel will review the submissions and select one agent as the top chef for each month. The winner will receive a $100 dining card and The ‘Art of Cooking’ cookbook by local celebrity chef Selwyn Richards.

Agents can learn more about the Jamaica Cooking Challenge, watch each month’s featured recipe video, and submit their entries at visitjamaica.com/canada/cooking.

The March winner of the Jamaican Cooking Challenge was Sandra Williams Reid of TTI Travel in Ajax, Ont., She was presented with her prize by JTB’s Dan Hamilton and Selwyn Richards during the T.O. Food & Drink Fest on April 1.

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

RETAIL ROUND-UP: In praise of partnerships

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It’s all about partnerships in this week’s round-up of news from the world of retail travel, with dispatches from The Travel Agent Next Door, Ensemble, Virtuoso and redtag.ca.

TTAND

The Travel Agent Next Door has been awarded Outstanding Host Agency Partner for 2022 by TTC Tour Brands’ Insight & Luxury Gold in Canada. While the US has had this award for some years, it is the first of its kind from TTC Tour Brands in Canada.

“TTAND has an extremely involved, committed and responsive team which made them such a joy to work with in 2022,” said Jenni Berg, National Accounts Director, TTC Tour Brands. “Their marketing and communication strategy is so well laid out that their travel agents really have all the tools they need. Their agents are committed to achieving their sales goals. Their unique model and vision make us excited about our continued partnership with TTAND.”

TTAND’s Flemming Friisdahl expressed pride in receiving the award. “Insight and Luxury Gold are great partners for our agents and we look forward to continuing to grow sales,” he said.

Ensemble

Meanwhile, in recognition of its full re-branding following its acquisition by Navigatr Group, Ensemble was awarded TTC Tour Brands’ 2022 partner award for “Outstanding in Innovation” (banner photo).

“We are so happy to recognize Ensemble with this first award of its kind from TTC for ‘Outstanding in Innovation,’” said Jenni Berg, National Accounts Director, TTC Tour Brands. “As a long-lasting, strong partner, Ensemble stood out in this category for many reasons including the full re-branding of Ensemble in 2022 following the acquisition by Navigatr Group. We are excited to be working with Ensemble as they continue to evolve and innovate.”

“It is truly gratifying to receive this recognition from one of Ensemble’s key partners,” said Ensemble president Michael Johnson. “We have been working really hard over the past several months to both listen to what our partners need and want and to create programs that address their priorities so that we can all grow and increase bookings and revenues.”

Among the many new innovations has launched over the past months include new branding, series of new annual events; new print and digital publications including Range and Range Best featuring ideas and preferred partner offerings and promotions; new hotel and marketing programs, and a new FAM program – Further Your World. Ensemble has also focused on growing its team with several appointments across various disciplines including operations, partner and member solutions, technology, and marketing.

Ensemble’s Franca Iuele; Shahla Lalani, Navigatr Group; Jenni Berg, TTC Brands; Michael Johnson, President of Ensemble; and Jenn Kotacka and Annabelle Seow, Ensemble

Virtuoso

Crystal has been accepted into Virtuoso’s exclusive portfolio of travel partners, comprising over 2,300 preferred suppliers in 100 countries.

Crystal’s inclusion in Virtuoso will present new sales and marketing opportunities to the network’s more than 21,000 travel advisors and their high-end clientele. Virtuoso agencies worldwide sell an average of US$28–$32 billion annually.

“As a leader in the affluent travel category, Virtuoso is an ideal partner for Crystal as we look towards our return to service later this summer,” said A&K Travel Group CEO Cristina Levis. “The reputation Virtuoso member agencies have for outstanding dedication to their clients is a perfect fit with our own bespoke approach to service, and we… look forward to a long-term relationship.”

“With Crystal’s new ownership in place, we are confident that our relationship will only grow stronger,” said Virtuoso Sr. VP of Sales & Partnerships Cory Hagopian. “We look forward to being an integral part of Crystal’s relaunch strategy as they bring back the world-class experiences and offerings that loyal Crystal enthusiasts – from our advisors to their clients – know and love about the brand.”

Crystal Serenity’s inaugural sailing will depart July 31, 2023, from Marseille for a Mediterranean cruise, and Crystal Symphony will depart on Sept. 1, 2023, from Athens. Planned voyages will travel throughout the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Canada and New England, Alaska, the Caribbean, through the Panama Canal, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.

redtag.ca

redtag.ca has announced a new sports partnership with Alpine Canada as a Premier Partner and to serve as its Official Travel Agency. The multi-year partnership will have redtag.ca support Canada’s national ski team and their travel needs. Additionally, redtag.ca will play a prominent role with Canada’s Nations Cup winning ski cross team and will be involved in future World Cup ski cross races in Canada.

Alpine Canada is the national governing body for ski racing in Canada, responsible for selecting and managing the national team, supporting coaches from grassroots to elite level, and competing at international events like the Winter Olympics and World Cup races..

“We are thrilled to partner with such a fantastic organization dedicated to the advancement of Canadians,” says Frank DeMarinis, CEO of H.I.S.-Red Label Vacations Inc. “Preparing for a highly competitive sport like ski racing takes tremendous effort and our extensive portfolio of elite sports teams positions us perfectly to provide a seamless travel experience for the athletes and team members of Alpine Canada. Our mutual commitment to innovation and growth makes this partnership a natural fit, and we’re excited about the opportunities it presents.”

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

UNWTO and FAO Strengthen Partnership

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Rome, Italy, April 8, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The importance of tourism for the economic development and empowerment of rural communities was underscored as the leaders of UNWTO and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) met in Rome today.

At the start of his official visit to Italy, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili was welcomed to the FAO headquarters for a meeting with FAO Director-General Mr Qu Dongyu. Building on a Memorandum of Understanding signed between both UN agencies in September 2020, the high-level meeting focused on the importance of intensifying collaboration to scale up tourism’s contribution to rural development.

UNWTO is proud to work closely with FAO around a shared determination to drive inclusive development and to make tourism a source of employment and opportunity for rural areas

Both leaders recognized the common goals and methods of several key projects, most notably FAO’s Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Sites (GIAHS) and its Digital Villages Initiative, and UNWTO’s Best Tourism Villages, which recognizes those rural destinations that are harnessing the power of tourism as a source of development and opportunity. At the same time, the two Heads of Agency identified the need to boost development and roll-out of capacity-building programmes to improve the tourism potential of FAO GIAHS sites and pilot Digital Villages.

UNWTO and FAO: Stronger Together

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “UNWTO is proud to work closely with FAO around a shared determination to drive inclusive development and to make tourism a source of employment and opportunity for rural areas. I welcome FAO Director-General Mr Qu Dongyu’s recognition of the importance of tourism and look forward to further strengthening our partnership.”

FAO Director-General Mr Qu Dongyu commended UNWTO’s work, noting the sector’s importance for addressing rural poverty and providing empowerment to communities outside of cities. He said: “Sustainable rural tourism can help reduce poverty, support resilient agrifood systems and conserve cultural heritage and ecosystems for better production, better nutrition，a better environment and a better life. leaving no one behind. Let’s work together to promote sustainable rural agritourism  and  to empower youth and women in the rural communities through decent jobs.”

Tourism, gastronomy, development

Looking ahead, UNWTO Secretary-General Pololikashvili also emphasised the importance of gastronomy tourism for development, most notably in Africa, and the role of both local production value chains and heritage across the continent, and invited the FAO Director-General to key UNWTO events, including the 8th UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism (San Sebastian, Spain, 5-6 October 2023).

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Cuba, the island built for family vacations

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The breathtaking island of Cuba has been a top vacation destination for Canadians of all ages year after year, looking to head south to sunnier skies, warm weather and the iconic blue waters of the Caribbean. With Blue Diamond Resorts’ range of all inclusive properties in Cuba that cater to vacationers of every generation, families can say ‘Hola’ to the tropical vacation of their dreams in some of the island’s most sought-after destinations.

Families travelling with Sunwing can get more of the getaways they love with weekly flights to popular destinations in Cuba from multiple gateways across Canada.

An island getaway to write home about

Set within the Jardines del Rey island chain just north of Cuba, Cayo Coco is the quintessential island paradise that is sure to be a repeat destination for any who set foot on its white-sand shores. Families can experience the best the island has to offer when they stay at Memories Flamenco Beach Resort, set on a stunning stretch of white-sand beach overlooking the coast. There’s fun for the whole family to be found with exciting amenities like a Kids Club, kayaking and the Route 66 Sports Bar where parents can mingle and catch live sporting events. Families can also take advantage of special rates on up to two kids aged two to 12 when they share a room with two adults, plus Diamond Club™ rooms offering exclusive amenities like a private beach area with wait service.

Soak up history with a Havana vacation

Cuba’s capital is an iconic destination that stands out among the rest for its rustic beauty, incredible history and joyful people who always warmly welcome vacationers travelling through. Families can stay in the heart of Havana when they vacation at Memories Miramar Habana, a charming hotel that encapsulates the best of the capital. Days can be spent in the sun by the kids pool or adults only pool, with a poolside bar and dining options to keep them satisfied, like El Patio, led by some of the city’s best chefs serving up delectable dishes. Exploring Havana is easy with a variety of hotels located near the colonial highlight of Old Havana, including the brand-new Royalton Habana, the always charming Hotel Inglaterra and the boutique Mystique Habana by Royalton, all managed by Blue Diamond Resorts.

An iconic beach for a legendary vacation

Cuba is home to one of the most famous beaches in the world, Varadero Beach. With swaying palms, kilometres of white sand and a variety of resorts lining its shores, family getaways here are a no-brainer. Amongst all those hot properties, Starfish Varadero is an intimate resort that offers big fun for all ages. As part of Sunwing’s Boutique Collection, travellers can look forward to fun in the sun with resort-offered activities, including non-motorized water sports, a Kids Club and pool just for the little ones, dance lessons and more, away from the crowd. After a day spent enjoying paradise, guests can retire to bungalow-style accommodations with space for everyone to unwind comfortably, with the sparking shore within walking distance.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Dreamy beach vacations with Blue Diamond Resorts Cuba

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The island of Cuba is synonymous with beach vacations, with some of the most sensational stretches of shore found across the Caribbean and fantastic resorts for travellers of all persuasions to enjoy. To help narrow down the list of incredible beach options Cuba has to offer, travellers can start with three standout coastlines in Cayo Largo, Varadero and Cayo Santa Maria where they’ll find the beach that will keep them coming back for more.

Beach lovers can explore the stunning shores of Cuba with ease thanks to Sunwing’s convenient weekly flights to the island from gateways across Canada.

Everything’s brighter on Cuba’s sunshine coast

Along Cuba’s southern shores, vacationers will find Cayo Largo, appropriately named the sunshine coast and the island’s crown jewel. With warmer temperatures, more sun year-round and over 25 kilometres of pristine beaches, Cayo Largo has become a new Canadian favourite with family-friendly resorts to experience this paradise firsthand. Memories Cayo Largo is a charming resort bringing fun in the sun to guests of every age. Kids will have a blast at the Kids Club and kids pool while parents take in the views at the convenient beach bar. Vacationers can get more beach for their buck with direct train service to Paraiso Beach and Sirena Beach nearby before returning to comfortable accommodations fit for the whole family. Guests can also upgrade their stay to Diamond Club™ room categories offering exclusive amenities and services!

A world-famous beach means famously fun getaways

Easily Cuba’s most iconic beach, recognized around the world, Varadero Beach’s beauty attracts travellers from far and wide and is a particular favourite for Canadians escaping to the sun. Set right on these pristine shores, Grand Memories Varadero is a great choice for friends looking to reunite, celebrate or simply enjoy each other’s company in paradise. They can spend sunny days on white sands and keep cool with non-motorized water sports or in the pool under a waterfall! The resort also offers bachelor or bachelorette packages, complimentary with a minimum of 15 guests staying for six nights or ten guests staying for 12 nights, making celebrating the start of their happily ever easy as piña colada! Vacationers can also turn their beach getaway into an unforgettable stay with the Cuban Experience Package ($).

An adults only haven for regal escapes

Couples and friends can look forward to picturesque beach getaways at Sanctuary at Grand Memories Santa Maria, located on the beautiful island of Cayo Santa Maria in the King’s Garden Archipelago. This adults only resort makes relaxing in paradise an art form with thoughtful inclusions, including personalized check-in, convenient butler service, 24-hour room service, spa discounts and more. Set on a brilliant white-sand beach, travellers can unwind in style with dedicated bar service right on the shore or take a beat at the exclusive pool where they’ll always stay refreshed. Vacationers can also sample the menus at the neighbouring Grand Memories Santa Maria, including its delectable Italian and Mexican restaurants, before returning back to their adult oasis to comfortable accommodations with all the comforts of home.

 

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

TROUBLES ANNIVERSARY CASTS LIGHT ON NORTHERN IRELAND

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This week marks the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement (April 10, 1998), which ended the ‘Troubles’ in Northern Ireland. With this in mind, Tourism Ireland has produced a top 10 list designed to help visitors delve into the region’s fascinating if tumultuous history while at the same time discovering its regenerated present.

Across Northern Ireland there are reminders of its troubled past – captured on street walls, in museum exhibitions and in visitor attractions. Through them, visitors can delve into Northern Ireland’s story and begin to understand the complex history that manifested itself during a destructive 30-year period from 1968 to ’98 that pitted protestant unionists who wanted to stay part of the United Kingdom and Catholic separatists who want to join Ireland.

Here is the tourist board’s curated top 10 list, mixing past and present, and which is guaranteed to demonstrate how much things have changed in just 25 years:

1. Take a Black Taxi Tour

One of the best ways to see and learn about the history of Belfast is on a Black Taxi Tour. These tours are guided by people who lived through the Troubles and offer a unique insight into the city’s past. The tour stops at Belfast’s famous political murals that portray loyalty and faith, solidarity, revolution, but also violence, death, and grief. It also visits the city’s most prominent Peace Walls.

2. The Troubles and Beyond exhibition

Belfast’s award-winning museum is located in the beautiful Botanic Gardens and has a permanent exhibition that tells the history of Northern Ireland from the late 1960s to the present day. It covers not only Northern Ireland ’s political history but also its social, cultural, and economic history.

3. Museum Deep Dive

For those who want a deeper dive, the Linen Hall Library has a unique collection of over 350,000 items relating to the Northern Ireland Troubles. The historic city centre building dates to 1788 and has links to the United Irishmen movement of the 18th century.

4. Tour Parliament Buildings

The seat of Northern Ireland’s devolved Assembly is an imposing building made of white Portland Stone set atop a hill. Free tours of the building describe the details of its grand architecture and take visitors into the ornate Great Hall and the two chambers – the Senate and the Assembly. The tour also reveals intriguing details about the political history that has unfolded in the building.

5. Visit Crumlin Road Gaol

Crumlin Road GaolBelfast’s evocative prison (photo) has a history that stretches back to 1845. It was in use until 1996 but is now a top visitor attraction. A guided tour will take visitors through 150 years of history, exploring the building’s enthralling past and gaining a unique insight into the daily lives of prisoners and prison officers. A separate wing of the building is currently being developed into a whiskey distillery and visitor experience.

6. Discover Hillsborough Castle & Gardens

Hillsborough Castle is Northern Ireland’s royal residence and has been the location for countless political meetings. To mark the anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, special Politics Tours of the building (21–23 April) will explore its role in the peace negotiations. Drawing on recent interviews conducted with politicians, diplomats and those who were present at the talks, the tours will give an insight into what went on behind the scenes.

7. Relax in the Europa Hotel

Once famous as the world’s most bombed hotel, the Europa now stands as a symbol of peace and renaissance in Belfast. With its elegant piano lounge and fine dining, the four-star, city-centre hotel is popular with locals and visitors alike. It has welcomed many world-famous names, including US president Bill Clinton, who stayed there in 1995 when he took part in the peace talks. A great place for an indulgent afternoon tea or cocktail.

8. Explore the Museum of Free Derry

Telling the story of what happened in Derry-Londonderry from 1968 to 1972 (the Free Derry period) through the eyes of the community, the Museum of Free Derry features key events in Northern Ireland’s history. These include the civil rights marches, the Battle of the Bogside, internment, Bloody Sunday, and a notorious British Army operation called Operation Motorman.

Close to the museum is the famous wall announcing, “You are now entering Free Derry” – now a popular place to grab a selfie.

9. Get to know Derry-Londonderry’s famous sons and daughters

Visit the city’s historic Guildhall Building to see the Nobel Peace Prize that Derry man John Hume won for his role in Northern Ireland’s peace process. It’s on display alongside his other awards – the Martin Luther King Jr. Non-Violent Prize and the Mahatma Gandhi Peace Prize.

Derry-Londonderry’s most famous daughters are probably the Derry Girls (including the “wee English fella”). The TV sitcom phenomenon was a window into life in the city in the years running up to the Good Friday Agreement. A new exhibition about the program is planned for the Tower Museum, together with a new Derry Girls Trail, which will include a visit to the must-see mural.

10. Cross the Peace Bridge

Walk or cycle across the Peace Bridge, an elegant piece of architecture that joins Ebrington Square with the rest of Derry-Londonderry’s centre. The bridge is designed with two identical halves, each suspended from a single, inclined steel pylon, which overlaps at the centre of the river to form a ‘structural handshake.’ The design is a metaphor for reconciliation and hope and draws on the sculpture “Hands Across the Divide” by Maurice Harron which is nearby.

First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

Future of Environmental Sustainable Tourism in Albania with UNWTO

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Tirana, Albania, April 10, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The Ministry of Tourism and Environment of the Republic of Albania in collaboration with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) under the special care of the Prime Minister of Albania, Mr. Edi Rama, and Secretary – General of the UNWTO, Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, organized the International Tourism Forum “The Future of Environmental Sustainable Tourism in Albania (FESTA)” which was held from the 3rd to the 5th of April 2023, in Tirana, Albania.

UNWTO Secretary-General Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili urged the Balkan countries to join together an form a single tourism destination in order to more effectively compete with large markets such as China, the United States or the Gulf countries. UNWTO will continue to work closely with Albania to ensure the enormous potential is fully realized both here and across the wider region.

“We are not rivals. We are complimentary to each other,” said Albanian Tourism Minister Mirela Kumbaro.

With 450 kilometers (280 miles) of coastline and 300 days of sunshine per year Albania offers a diverse range of attractions ranging from beaches to mountain resorts, as well as great food and culture.

Tourism and agriculture are two main revenue resources for Albania, one of Europe’s poorest countries. Tourism generated 17% of GDP in 2021, with arrivals increasing 33% last year to 7.5 million people. Kumbaro said 59% more tourists have come in the first quarter this year compared to last year.

Albania enjoyed one of the strongest increases in international tourist arrivals in the region, outperforming all the European Union countries in 2022 with a 19% rise in visitors.

On his first official visit to Albania, Secretary-General Pololikashvili reaffirmed his vision for a tourism transformed around the priorities of jobs, education and investments, and met both Prime Minister Rama and from Minister of Tourism Mirela Kumbaro to explore common goals and potential areas of greater collaboration. In the area of investments, the two parties identified the possibility of producing a new set of Investment Guidelines for Albania with the aim of supporting tourism projects focused on sustainability.

In the framework of the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region (EUSAIR), together with the Albanian Agency for the Strategic Program and Aid Coordination (SASPAC), the forum included the most important topics within the strategic policies of the Albanian Government and UNWTO.

The high-level UNWTO delegation joined tourism leaders from across the region for the Future of Environmental and Sustainable Tourism in Albania (FESTA, Tirana, 3-5 April). Themed “Harnessing the power of South Eastern Europe through regional cooperation in tourism”, UNWTO will emphasize the vital importance of jobs, education and investment to build a more sustainable and inclusive tourism sector.

FESTA is platform for a range of panels and discussions amongst policymakers, entrepreneurs, operators of hospitality and all those who contribute to the shaping of this vital industry.

The Forum thematics was focused on the current trends of sustainable travel, using insights, while exploring the transformational power of the travel industry and jointly strategise how to move forward in the road ahead.

Being among important actors who are at the forefront of the profession, was also a great networking experience among all attendees, against a background of Albanian food, culture, music, and hospitality.

The forum explored the transformational power of the travel industry and jointly strategized how to move forward in the road ahead. Attendees had the opportunity to participate in discussions and panels on the future of tourism and gain insights into where the industry is headed. This was valuable for all professionals who want to stay informed and adapt their strategies accordingly.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

ROUND-UP: April 3-10, 2023

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A new agreement between Canada and the UAE last week promised more flights between the destinations; Canada Jetlines refocussed attention on sun routes; El Al delivered “not the best news” to Canadian agents, and a TD survey revealed Canadian habits when it comes to travel insurance.

NEWS

Canada and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have announced the conclusion of an expanded air transport agreement that allows 21 flights per week for each country – 50% more flights than the maximum number previously possible. The new rights under the expanded agreement are available for use by airlines immediately. Currently Air Canada, Emirates and Etihad serve the market directly.

As part of a new brand identity, NYC & Company, New York’s official destination marketing organization and convention and visitors bureau is now known as New York City Tourism + Conventions. The destination’s new brand system is aimed at travellers from around the world and includes a new brand strategy and comprehensive visual identity system comprising a new logo, color standards, typography, art direction and graphic elements.

BORDERS

The Aruba Tourism Authority has announced the implementation of seamless travel to Aruba through the use of verifiable digital credential technology (DTC). The innovation will soon allow travellers to fulfill government immigration requirements before boarding their flight using a simplified process that eliminates the need to manually enter information from paper travel documents. Using a DTC, passengers can consent to share any of their relevant data directly from their digital wallet on their mobile device to multiple entities across journeys, from the government at the port of entry to other touchpoints such as hotels or car rental.

BY THE NUMBERS

A TD Insurance survey says the majority of Canadians (65%) plan on taking a trip in the near future, but only 36% of those planning to travel intend to purchase both medical and cancellation travel insurance. Among those likely to travel in the next year, younger Canadians between the ages of 18 and 34 appear least likely to purchase travel insurance with only 27% saying they intend to buy cancellation and travel medical coverage, compared to 39% of those over the age of 35.

AIR

Canada Jetlines has pressed pause on its domestic routes as the airline refocuses its efforts on sun destinations and leasing its planes, but says it plans to resume in-country flights come fall. The carrier quietly halted its twice-weekly return trips between Toronto and Vancouver and Toronto and Calgary in January after launching commercial operations in September. The carrier continues to offer two return flights per week from Toronto’s Pearson airport to Las Vegas and to Cancun, Mexico. Meanwhile, the carrier says it has signed a letter of intent for its third Airbus A320 aircraft, to be provided by a global aviation lessor with delivery expected by July.

 Porter Airlines is adding flight frequency on its new Ottawa-Charlottetown route. Service begins on May 17, but the initial seven weekly round trip flights increase to 11 times weekly during the spring and fall, plus 14 flights per week during the peak summer travel season.

El Al Israel Airlines would like to return to Canada, but there is “no date circled on the calendar” for that to happen, the carrier’s Sr. VP Sales for North America, Marc Cavaliere told an audience of travel agents at the Israeli Consulate in Toronto, and that though he was delivering “not the best news” he would not “perpetuate unrealistic expectations” out of respect. He added that the carrier will continue to work in Canada and is promoting connections through its US gateways. El Al mothballed its Canadian service last October.

DEALS

Continuing through April 14 for travel between May 24 and Oct. 31, Swoop’s Easter Sale is offering 30% off select scheduled routes. Use the promo code BUNNY30 when booking.
Until April 11, Club Med Flash Sale is offering up to 50% off on stays at selected properties. Participating properties include Club Med Punta Cana, Club Med Cancun, Club Med Turkoise, Club Med La Caravelle, Club Med Les Boucaniers, Club Med Ixtapa Pacific, Club Med Miches Playa Esmeralda, Club Med Columbus, and Club Med Quebec Charlevoix. Travel must be between April 29 and Oct. 20, 2023.

TOURS

Karibu adventures, a new Edmonton-based tour specialist has three curated itineraries to unique destinations in Canada and Italy designed for “curious, active adventurers seeking raw and real experiences in amazing wild places.” The intimate small-group adventures include a five-day fly-in to Temagami, Ont., featuring back-country canoe trip and wilderness lodge; a seven-day tour on the northeast coast of Vancouver Island that based on sea kayaking, wildlife encounters and Indigenous culture; and seven days of hiking, food and culture in the hidden gem of Alta Valsesia, Italy.

HOTELS

Following Bellagio’s recent remodelling of more than 2,500 guest rooms in its main tower, the Las Vegas hotel and casino will redesign the Spa Tower in a similar Lake Como, Italy, motif across 819 guest rooms and 104 suites. The reno is slated for completion in October, with the first collection of rooms available for guest stays beginning in July.

Scheduled to open in July, the W Budapest will be housed in the heart of the city in the impressive neo-renaissance style Drechsler Palace, which will be fully renovated. The hotel will feature 151 stylish guest rooms, including 45 suites and one Extreme WOW, the brand’s lux-take on the Presidential Suite. Amenities include a restaurant, a bar, a W Lounge, three meeting and event spaces, an Away Spa, FIT fitness centre, and WET pool.

RESORTS

Calling it “a new chapter” in its storied history as a pioneer of the beach and mountain all-inclusive resort concepts, Club Med has unveiled a new refreshed and modernized brand identity. The popular lifestyle brand says it is evolving into a more premium, family-friendly, and eco-conscious experience. As part of the brand evolution, Club Med is enhancing all consumer communication touchpoints with refreshed logos, iconography, and colour palette from its website and emails to the ‘My Club Med’ app and in-resort signage in order to reflect its new identity both in the resorts and outside.

CRUISE

Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth‘s 2024 summer program in Alaska will sail 10 roundtrip voyages out of Vancouver, ranging from nine to 11 nights. The ship will visit the immense Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay National Park along with calls at Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, and more. She will also make two maiden calls at Misty Fjords and Wrangell.

Disney Cruise Line will unveil a new island destination in summer 2024 celebrating the unique culture of The Bahamas. Located on Eleuthera, Lighthouse Point is being designed in close collaboration with local artists and advisors to provide an experience that “combines breathtaking natural beauty with the magic of Bahamian hospitality, storytelling and artistry.”

ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS

Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park welcomed its newest attraction, TRON Lightcycle/Run, which enables guests to feel as if they’ve been digitized and transported into the popular film’s grid for a special Lightcycle race. The attraction will be one of the fastest coasters at any Disney theme park in the world.

EVENTS

A collection of trade representatives including Tourism Australia, Jamaica Tourist Board, Globus family of brands, Carnival Cruise Line, and Couples Resorts is continuing its series of “Coffee Time Travel Chats,” having attracted close to 100 agents at previous Ontario events in St. Catharines, London, and Burlington. The mini trade shows allow advisors to pop in for a coffee between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Upcoming shows will take place in Brantford on April 11; Kitchener, April 26; and Woodbridge, May 2, with more shows being planned throughout Ontario and BC in the months to come. To attend, RSVP HERE.

Registration is now open for the annual ACTA travel industry golf tournament, set to the take place on Thursday, July 13 at the Royal Ontario Golf Course in Milton. The event is open to both ACTA members and non-members, individuals and teams, and non-golfers can join post-golf for the cocktail reception and dinner. Tee-off is 10 a.m., with a call to carts at 9:45. Click HERE for the registration form.

CONTEST

To celebrate its first anniversary, Lynx launched a contest for Canadians to win free flights for a year. Two grand prize winners will each win one roundtrip per month for 12 months to fly anywhere on Lynx’s North American network. Five additional winners will each receive one return flight to anywhere on Lynx’s network. The contest runs until today (April 11) and winners will be contacted via email. To enter, visit flylynx.com.

FAMS & INCENTIVES

Lujure is offering travel agents 12% commission on new bookings made by June 1 for travel until Dec.  31. The Canadian travel company specializes in global destinations and premier accommodations that are “perfect little hideaways… ideal for relaxing and restorative getaways.” The organization also offers concierge services, event planning, and other tailor-made services. Contact reservations@lujurevillas.com.

PEOPLE/APPOINTMENTS

Canadian travel industry veteran Susan Lawson has joined Trevello Travel Group as National Director of Sales & Training. Most recently a business development manager at Allianz insurance, Lawson has also served a lengthy term with Club Med and Air Canada Vacations in western Canada during her career.

Willie Montano has been promoted to VP of global marketing at Collette. In his new role, Montano will oversee global marketing, including production and marketing in the US, Canada, and Australia.

DESTINATIONS

Charlotte Motor Speedway

Coinciding with NASCAR’s 75th anniversary this year, North Carolina’s new ‘Moonshine and Motorsports Trail’ connects travellers with the storied history of the sport in destinations across the state. The trail features a pair of modern signatures (the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte and Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord) along with museums and legacy tracks, including Hillsborough’s Occoneechee Speedway, Rockingham Speedway and North Wilkesboro Speedway, a NASCAR original located in the “moonshine capital of the world.” Special exhibits will illuminate moonshine history from the mountains to the coast and highlight the connection between bootleggers running from revenue agents and stock car drivers on speedway tracks.

 2023 is a year of anniversaries in San Francisco. The city is celebrating 150 years of cable cars traversing its steep hills, the 125th anniversary of the Ferry Building, the 90th season of SF Ballet, and the 60th anniversary of Alcatraz prison closing, with festivities planned to commemorate the milestones.

LAST WEEK IN TRAVEL HISTORY

In 1960, Canada entered the jet age when Trans-Canada Air Lines (now Air Canada) began service between Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal.

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First published at Travel Industry Today

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

IATA Focus Africa to Strengthen Aviation Contribution to African Development

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IATA Focus Africa to Strengthen Aviation Contribution to African Development - TRAVELINDEX - AIRLINEHUB.comGeneva, Switzerland, April 7, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is launching “Focus Africa” to strengthen aviation’s contribution to Africa’s economic and social development and improve connectivity, safety and reliability for passengers and shippers. This initiative will align private and public stakeholders to deliver measurable progress in six areas.

“Africa accounts for 18% of the global population, but just 2.1% of air transport activities (combined cargo and passenger). Closing that gap, so that Africa can benefit from the connectivity, jobs and growth that aviation enables, is what Focus Africa is all about,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Infrastructure constraints, high costs, lack of connectivity, regulatory impediments, slow adoption of global standards and skills shortages affect the customer experience and are all contributory factors to African airlines’ viability and sustainability. The continent’s carriers suffered cumulative losses of $3.5 billion for 2020-2022. Moreover, IATA estimates further losses of $213 million in 2023.

Delivering on Africa’s Opportunities

Sustainably connecting the African continent internally and to global markets with air transport is critical for bringing people together and creating economic and social development opportunities. It will also support the realization of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) for Africa of lifting 50 million people out of poverty by 2030. In particular, trade and tourism rely on aviation and have immense unrealized potential to create jobs, alleviate poverty, and generate prosperity across the continent.

Africa has a solid foundation to support the case for improving aviation’s contribution to its development. Pre-COVID aviation supported 7.7 million jobs and $63 billion in economic activity in Africa. Projections are for demand to triple over the next two decades.

“Africa stands out as the region with the greatest potential and opportunity for aviation. The Focus Africa initiative renews IATA’s commitment to supporting aviation on the continent. As the incoming Chair of the IATA Board of Governors, and the first from Africa since 1993, I look forward to ensuring that this initiative gets off to a great start and delivers benefits that are measurable,” said Yvonne Makolo, CEO of RwandAir and first female Chair of the IATA Board of Governors (2023-2024).

Six Critical Areas

“The limiting factors on Africa’s aviation sector are fixable. The potential for growth is clear. And the economic boost that a more successful African aviation sector will deliver has been witnessed in many economies already. With Focus Africa, stakeholders are uniting to deliver on six critical focus areas that will make a positive difference. We’ll measure success and will need to hold each other accountable for the results,” said Walsh.

The six focus areas are:

Safety: Improve operational safety through a data driven, collaborative program to reduce safety incidents and accidents, in the air and on the ground.

Infrastructure: Facilitate the growth of efficient, secure, and cost-effective aviation infrastructure to improve customer experience and operational efficiency.

Connectivity: Promote the liberalization of intra-African market access through the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

Finance and Distribution: Accelerate the implementation of secure, effective and cost-efficient financial services and adoption of modern retailing standards.

Sustainability: Assist Africa’s air transport industry to achieve the “Net Zero by 2050” emissions targets agreed to by industry and the UN’s International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) member states.

Future Skills: Promote aviation-related career paths and ensure a steady supply of diverse and suitably skilled talent to meet the industry’s future needs.

The Power of Partnerships

“Partnerships will differentiate the outcome of Focus Africa from previous efforts to stimulate Africa’s development with air transport. By partnering, stakeholders will effectively pool their resources, research, expertise, time and funding to support the common goals of the six work areas,” said Kamil Al Awadhi, IATA Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East.

The partners will be announced and join forces in Addis Ababa on 20-21 June to officially launch the Focus Africa initiative with more details for each task area.

The Timing is Right

Africa continues the path to recovery from the COVID-19 crisis. Air cargo is 31.4% over 2019 levels and air travel is 93% of 2019 levels. Full recovery for air travel is expected in 2024.

“The tasks for Focus Africa are not new. Work is already underway as part of the work of IATA and other stakeholders in Africa. But after the financial trauma that the pandemic brought to African aviation, we are at a unique time of rebuilding. By launching Focus Africa now, we can ensure that the recovery from COVID-19 moves aviation to an even better place than we were in 2019,” said Al Awadhi.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News

JW Marriott Makes its Debut in Luxury Safari Segment

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JW Marriott Makes its Debut in Luxury Safari Segment - TRAVELINDEX - VISITKENYA.comMasai Mara, Kenya, April 7, 2023 / TRAVELINDEX / Transformative Experiences and Meaningful Connections Await at JW Marriott’s Haven of Luxury in the Heart of the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. JW Marriott announced the opening of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge, marking the company’s highly anticipated debut in the luxury safari segment.

Sitting within the Masai Mara National Reserve in Southwestern Kenya, one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife and wilderness conservation regions, the lodge is a sophisticated and thoughtful sanctuary from which to discover nature and breathtaking vistas in harmony. Exhilarating guided game drives offer guests the opportunity to observe the “Big Five” that Masai Mara is home to, including lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinoceros, and elephants. Between June and September, the reserve is host to the annual great wildebeest migration, which sees more than 10 million animals travel a distance of 1,800 miles from the Serengeti in neighbouring Tanzania.

“Fostering meaningful connections and nourishing the soul is at the heart of the JW Marriott brand, so entering the luxury safari segment is a natural next step,” said Bruce Rohr, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “Offering our guests once-in-a-lifetime experiences and a deep connection to place, JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge balances the thrill of a game drive with thoughtful opportunities to switch off and take it all in. We are excited to welcome travellers to a transformative and wellness-forward stay delivered with JW Marriott’s legacy of extraordinary hospitality.”

Inspired Design

The lodge’s elegant interiors, designed by Kristina Zanic Consultants, seamlessly blend the savannah inwards, drawing inspiration from the elements with soft, warm tones, natural materials and textures, and native colours thread through its design. Each of the lodge’s 20 private tents provide a peaceful sanctuary to recharge and reset, and feature terraces overlooking the River Talek, a water source and habitat for many wildlife. The tented honeymoon suite offers a private plunge pool, while two interconnecting king and twin suites are ideal for families with children over the age of six (the minimum age of guests at the lodge).

Wellbeing and Mindful Practices

In keeping with JW Marriott’s ethos of mindfulness, the lodge is home to a number of thoughtfully designed spaces from the cosy Adventure Lounge full of books to get lost in and a space for young adults to take time for themselves, to the Cultural Deck where guests can gather around the fire pit to share tales of the day’s exploration.

Capturing the essence of rejuvenation, the Spa by JW emulates the serenity of the reserve and offers tailored experiences and signature treatments which blend locally inspired techniques and therapies. These are complemented by natural and organic products by renowned African skincare brand, Healing Earth, also available as in-room amenities. Guests can enjoy spa treatments from the comfort of their tented suite, accompanied by the sounds of the wilderness. Extending beyond body to mind and spirit with guided yoga, treatments include a ‘Masai Celebration’ incorporating local botanicals and therapies.

Nourishing Culinary Journeys

At the heart of the camp is the JW Garden, an outdoor space for guests to spend time discovering home-grown, organic ingredients, including the lodge’s signature rosemary. The garden’s produce is used by the lodge’s chefs to craft personalised dishes, cocktails, and mocktails. The garden will host daily programming, including live cooking, interactive cocktail mixology, and chef-led talks for a true farm-to-table experience. A relaxing gathering place, Fig Tree Lounge offers panoramic views of the surrounding plains from the indoor and outdoor bar and serves refreshing cocktails and mocktails infused with seasonal ingredients from the lodge’s garden. An indoor and alfresco dining experience at Sarabi Restaurant takes guests on a nourishing epicurean experience guided by JW Garden ingredients and local culinary heritage. Guests can venture out into the reserve with the lodge’s guides to enjoy a freshly prepared ‘Bush Breakfast’ or dinner while sipping sundowners and soaking in the breathtaking savannah vistas.

Connection to the Locale

The lodge’s community programming provides an authentic insight into meaningful local projects, including The Maa Trust, an organisation empowering local people by promoting small business start-ups. The lodge donates a percentage of the nightly rate per person to the organisation and provides a space for craftspeople to retail Maa Beadwork and produce. Guests can visit The Maa Trust to meet with local artisans and forge a deeper connection to the people in the area.

Currently, 60 percent of the lodge’s team are locals, with plans to reach 70 percent, ensuring the hotel’s contribution to the socio-economic development of the region. As an ongoing initiative, JW Marriott Masai Mara’s Apprenticeship Programme invites young women from the community to diversify their skills and broaden their experience to kick-start their careers in the hospitality industry. Partnership with the community began during the early development process of the lodge. Developed on land committed to a tourism project so as not to unduly disturb the surrounding environment, much of the construction was undertaken by local experts overseen by technical specialists, with build materials sourced from sustainable suppliers. The lodge has rehabilitated access roads to the property, installed power to the area, and provided access to clean drinking water for locals through a water treatment plant.

Emphasis on waste reduction and recycling is integral to daily operations. The lodge’s water treatment plant provides recycled and sanitised water; food waste is placed at the lodge’s compost site; and water wells are dotted around the lodge for animals to quench their thirst throughout the day.

By supporting local organisations such as The Mara Elephant Project and The Mara Protector Conservation Programme, JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge contributes to protecting animals and their habitat across the greater Mara ecosystem. Bringing a passion for the surrounding wildlife and nature to guests, the lodge’s Head Guide is a lifelong conservationist who holds talks about local culture at the lodge as well as guided walking tours. With an abundance of meaningful moments to experience at the lodge, guests can delve into photography and learn new skills at the lodge’s very own studio.

JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is a 30-minute drive from Keekorok Airstrip and a 25-minute drive from Sekenani Main Gate.

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First published at TravelNewsHub.com – Global Travel News