Destinations
Canadian travellers drive record visits to Cayman Islands in 2024
The Cayman Islands ended 2024 on a high note welcoming 437,842 stayover visitors between January and December 2024 representing a two per cent increase over 2023’s numbers. March 2024 saw the second highest number of arrivals ever for the destination with 57,040 stayover visitors. December was also a standout month with 52,046 stayover visitors – the second highest number of visitors for December in recorded history and an increase of 4.3 per cent year over year. Canadian visitation played a significant role in year over year results thanks to six months of record arrivals from...
Here’s what’s new in Chicago for 2025
Following a banner year for Chicago’s tourism, hospitality, and events community, Chicago has a series of exciting things planned for 2025. In addition to a wide variety of signature events, festivals and openings, this year Chicago is proud to host the 2025 edition of IPW (June 14-18, 2025), the travel industry’s premier international marketplace, welcoming hundreds of national and international journalists to see for themselves the best of the Midwest. New accommodations In summer 2024, the 28-floor, boutique-style Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago opened, overlooking Michigan Avenue...
National Geographic Expeditions returns to South Africa in 2026
National Geographic Expeditions will return to Southern Africa in 2026 with a brand-new itinerary – Southern Africa: Living History and Legendary Species. This newest addition to the company's Signature Land portfolio will explore South Africa and Zambia, welcoming travellers into the wonders of the region with an expertly planned itinerary focused on connecting with the beauty of each destination. This carefully crafted exploration of Southern Africa brings to life the vast history, culture and wildlife of the region through the authentic storytelling of National...
NYC Tourism + Conventions introduces AI platform for business pros
New York City Tourism + Conventions, the official destination marketing organization and convention and visitors bureau for the five boroughs of New York City, has launched the first-ever meetings and conventions planning artificial intelligence chat platform created for business event professionals. In partnership with GuideGeek—Matador Network's award-winning artificial intelligence travel genius—Ellis provides expert guidance and resources for meeting planners in 45 languages, available at nyctourism.com/meetings and via WhatsApp. This launch comes as members of NYC...
Orlando welcomes first new theme park in 25 years
Orlando is set to welcome more than 25 experiences for 2025, including its first new theme park in over 25 years. “For the first time in 25 years, Orlando is on the brink of welcoming an entirely new theme park — a milestone that underscores our position as a top destination this year for travellers worldwide,” said Casandra Matej, president and CEO of Visit Orlando. “If it’s your first time or you haven’t visited in over a year, consider this your invitation to plan an unforgettable Orlando vacation, creating memories with our world-class theme parks, award-winning...
Atlas Ocean Voyages offering free airfare on Antarctica expeditions
Atlas Ocean Voyages is offering a limited-time offer for its Antarctica expeditions departing February and March 2025. For the first time ever, guests can enjoy free roundtrip air from select U.S. gateways to Buenos Aires, paired with a one-night pre-expedition hotel stay and up to $600 onboard credit for an all-encompassing experience. “This is the first time we’ve included complimentary roundtrip air as part of our expeditions,” said James A. Rodriguez, president and CEO of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “This offering provides incredible value and convenience for guests who are eager to...
U.S.V.I. posts record arrivals for 2024
The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism recently announced new record-breaking passenger arrival numbers, which highlight the continued growth of St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John as a leading tourism destination. Closing out the year on a high, December 28 recorded 4,606 passenger arrivals, surpassing the single-day arrival record set earlier in March 2024. This achievement also led to a new weekly passenger arrival record, with over 24,000 arrivals, marking a 5.92% increase over the previous record. "As a destination, we continue to explore, elevate, and improve, which...
Loire Valley partners highlight product in Toronto, Montreal & Vancouver
The Loire Valley in France offers more than enough reasons to schedule a holiday visit, but some anniversaries happening in 2025 provide additional motivation if need be. This UNESCO-graded region of France spans about 800 sq. km. and is well known for its lush agriculture, its vineyards and especially its cultural landscapes and architecture. French tour and attractions operators came to Canada recently to spread the good word about the Loire Valley, at functions held in Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver. In Vancouver, the Atout France cocktail reception took place at the...