Destinations
Toronto celebrates the true spirit of Barbados
Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. enabled Torontonians to party hearty Barbados-style Friday night. The tourist board decided to "bring the true spirit of Barbados to the heart of Toronto" by recreating its "iconic Oistins Fish Fry," a lively weekly celebration on the island. The downtown Toronto event featured live musical performances of Caribbean talent, including Alison Hinds, known as the Soca Queen; authentic Barbados eats; and samplings of Barbados rum. Also on hand were stiltwalkers and people sporting the types of colorful costumes seen in Barbados' Carifesta...
New JTB campaign features Usain Bolt as its global tourism ambassador
The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) has launched its new advertising campaign featuring legendary sprinter Hon. Usain Bolt, who was recently appointed Jamaica’s Global Tourism Ambassador. In celebration of Jamaica’s Independence Day, the campaign debuted on Aug. 6, with a 30-second video spot that is now airing across digital platforms. In the spot, the world-renowned sprinter reflects on how his upbringing in Jamaica –from the hills of Trelawny to global stardom – has shaped every step of his journey. He highlights the country’s energy, resilience, and rhythm, inviting...
Milano Cortina 2026 Meets the World
Milano and Cortina, Italy were Toronto last week hosting travel trade type at Toronto’s Distillery District and promote the upcoming Winter Olympics and Paralympics that will take place in the region beginning in early February 2026. The evening featured a cocktail party, a presentation by the Milano Cortina Olympic organizers and a panel of Canadian Olympians and executives from the Canadian Olympic and Paralympic associations. An outdoor screening of the Italian movie, “The Blue Avalanche” – which celebrated Italy's world dominating Men’s Ski Team during the 1970s...
North Rim of Grand Canyon closed for the season due to fire
The visitor season for North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park was cut short by destruction from the Dragon Bravo Fire, which destroyed the historic Grand Canyon Lodge and its nearby cabins. Fortunately, due to swift actions by emergency personnel, all guests and staff were safely evacuated, resulting in no reported injuries or loss of life. “Our hearts go out to the entire Grand Canyon North Rim community, thankfully everyone evacuated quickly and safely,” said Arizona Office of Tourism Interim Director Alix Skelpsa Ridgway. “Our thoughts remain with the firefighters who are...
Baja California Sur introduces mandatory tourist tax
The Government of the State of Baja California Sur has implemented a new tax for foreign visitors who stay in the state for more than 24 hours. Called the EMBRACE IT tax, this measure aims to generate funds to strengthen natural environmental conservation, community development, and local tourism infrastructure. The established amount is $470 MXN per person (approx. $25 USD). Payment must be made exclusively online through the Travelkore platform, and travellers must present their proof of payment at the state’s entry and exit points. The new tax will be implemented in...
Madeira looks to grow its Canadian business
Travel trade types in Toronto had a chance to learn more about Madeira -- an autonomous region of Portugal, that’s an archipelago comprising 4 islands off the northwest coast of Africa. Known for its Madeira wine as well as its warm, subtropical climate, the main island of Madeira is volcanic, green and rugged, with high cliffs, pebbly beaches and settlements on deltas of the Fajã River. Funchal is the capital, and is known for its harbour, as well as its botanic gardens and New Year's fireworks show. While Bernardo Goncalves of the Madeira Promotion Board, told the group,...
St. Kitts introduces electronic travel authorization, effective immediately
The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has launched a new Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system, effective May 26, 2025. This innovative digital system will modernize the way visitors enter our beautiful twin-island nation, ensuring a seamless, efficient, and secure travel experience. Additionally, the eTA will help Saint Kitts and Nevis remain an open and welcoming destination while ensuring safer borders, reinforcing security for both citizens and visitors. How to apply for an eTA Every visitor must present an approved eTA before departing their country of origin and on arrival...
One Caribbean Canada invites Canadians to discover history, culture & more
An organization formed to promote travel to the Caribbean says that part of the world isn't on our doorstep but it isn't difficult for most Canadians to reach either. One Caribbean Canada, which appeared on the scene about a year ago, held a Tuesday Toronto event that promoted the accessibility of the Caribbean to the majority of Canadians, thanks to non-stop flights from several airline partners. "We really are a direct flight away," Erica Jackman told her audience. "The Caribbean is closer than you think....you leave (this country for the Caribbean) at breakfast, arrive at lunch and...