Destinations
Culture is the draw, but cost is a barrier according to ETC Report
It seems that international travellers are showing increased caution about planning trips to Europe between September and December this year. That’s the word according to the most recent Long-Haul Travel Barometer (LHTB) by the European Travel Commission (ETC) and Eurail BV, which explores the sentiment and preferences of travellers regarding long-haul travel to Europe. The report revealed that 58% of respondents plan to travel long-haul in the last four months of the year, with 40% anticipating a visit to Europe. This represents a 4% decline compared to the same period...
Hawaii reps provide Maui updates and more in Vancouver
Hawaii regional tourism chiefs and hotel/attraction reps were in Vancouver this week to provide the travel trade media with the latest updates and even a few hula lessons. While there was no formal presentations, there were plenty of opportunities to hobnob with the Hawaii reps who formed the quick cross-Canada mission, which kicked off in Vancouver. The mid-day rendezvous with the media at Riley’s Steak Lounge was followed by a dinner presentation event for about 100 travel advisors at a hotel ballroom on Vancouver’s waterfront. The group had made earlier stops in California,...
Taiwan unveils comprehensive sustainable tourism strategy
Taiwan has launched a comprehensive new tourism strategy with a focus on "Sustainable X Digital" transformation. The forward-thinking approach aims to enhance visitor experiences while safeguarding the island's rich natural and cultural heritage, in line with its 2030 vision. As global trends shift towards sustainability, Taiwan is embracing green, innovative, and community-focused travel experiences. This approach not only helps preserve the island’s resources but also channels tourism revenue back into local communities, supporting a sustainable industry. The core of Taiwan’s...
Ensemble, New Zealand partners host Hobbit Party in Toronto
Ensemble Travel Group welcomed about 25 of its travel advisors and agency owners to its offices in downtown Toronto earlier this week for a Hobbit Party. And, for those of you who don’t know, hobbits are those fine creatures who inhabit the pages of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings trilogy and its story of the triumph of good over evil. Were there hobbits at Ensemble’s party? Good question. Yes, there were although they seemed a little bit taller than the hobbits seen in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings films. All this to say, that everyone got in the spirit of the...
St. Kitts Tourism rolls out St. Kitts Trav Pros
The St. Kitts Tourism Authority has launched the St. Kitts Trav Pros Training & Sales Companion, developed in collaboration with TravPRO Mobile. The comprehensive platform is designed to equip travel advisors with the tools and knowledge needed to effectively promote and sell the destination. The program includes two multi-modal chapters that provide an in-depth look at St. Kitts’ history, landmarks, attractions, and accommodations through curated images, videos, and product information. Travel advisors will also benefit from peer insights and sales tips, enhancing their...
An update from the Cuba Tourist Board
The Cuba Tourist Board in Canada reports that power has been restored in the Cayo Coco area -- Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo, Cayo Cruz & Cayo Paredon| -- Cayo Santa Maria and Holguin. According to Lessner Gomez, director of the Cuba Tourism Board in Canada, there are some parts of Havana and Varadero that still are not totally recovered, but clients in these zones have been moved to hotels in the same area that have their own generators. Excursions and tours are running; all the airports are open and operational. The full recovery of the tourist areas is expected to be concluded...
GNTB launches AI influencer for Destination Germany
The German National Tourist Board (GNTB) has launched an AI influencer project that will use artificial intelligence to promote Germany as a travel destination on an international scale. With the launch of ‘Emma’ – an AI-generated influencer – the GNTB has created an innovative, interactive brand ambassador who virtually inspires potential travellers 24/7 for real vacation experiences. Emma will act as an addition to, rather than a replacement for, real-life influencers in the GNTB's digital strategy. Destination Germany will continue to rely on its strong partnerships...
Jamaica says ‘thanks’ to its Canadian partners and friends
“My heart is full tonight,” observed Angella Bennett, regional director Canada for the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) as she welcomed the destination’s partners and friends for an evening of appreciation at the Hazelton Hotel in Toronto’s Yorkville district. Of the 60 travel trade partners and members of the diaspora, Bennett said that “you are my favourite people in Canada,” noting that the evening was a celebration of the “remarkable success of Brand Jamaica” and a heartfelt “thank you” to the people who have helped elevate the brand globally. Praising Bennett and...