Destinations
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...
Authenticity bringing success to St. Kitts & Nevis
Things seem to be going pretty well these days for St. Kitts & Nevis as Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, International Transport, Employment and Urban Development, the Honourable Marsha Tamika Henderson will tell you. “For the first quarter of 2025, we’ve welcomed 46,641 visitors to St. Kitts … which represents a 15% increase year over year,” Minister Henderson told Travel Press Today. “For us,” Minister Henderson continued, “that significantly surpasses pre-pandemic figures which are our benchmark,” and noting further that “in the 2024-2025 peak season, we...
Bahamas gets summer, fall boost in flights from Canada
The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation has announced new and expanded airlift options from Canada that will make it easier for Canadian travellers to experience the beauty and culture of the islands. Air Canada is introducing new, nonstop flights from Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) and Halifax-Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) to Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) this winter, with the addition of weekly flights starting Friday, 5 Dec. 2025 through 10 Apr. 2026. Commencing on June 20 through Aug. 29, Air Canada will...
Travel to Europe: Momentum Continues In Early 2025 Despite Uncertainty
The European Travel Commission (ETC) is reporting that European tourism maintained strong momentum into early 2025, demonstrating remarkable resilience despite a backdrop of economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions. According to the latest “European Tourism: Trends & Prospects" report for Q1, international tourist arrivals increased by 4.9% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with nights up 2.2%. The ETC said that following a robust 2024 -- when arrivals exceeded pre-pandemic levels by 6.2% and nights by 6.4% -- the sector has continued to...
“An open-hearted welcome awaits in NYC”: New York City wraps up 2025 reverse sales mission
Today marks the end of New York City Tourism + Conventions’ 2025 Canada-U.S. reverse sales mission and business expo, which brought nine Canadian and 15 American product buyers to New York City for supplier meetings and FAM experiences. Held from April 29 - May 2, the reverse sales mission highlighted the importance of connection and collaboration with cross-border partners amid challenging times. The group was greeted at a welcome presentation with an image of New York City Tourism + Conventions’ latest global campaign, “With Love + Liberty, New York City”, with the caption...