Destinations
Grand Bahama Celebrates Return Of Grand Classica
Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line marked a major milestone in late-July, resuming commercial operations and welcoming passengers back onboard after an extended pause. The family-owned and operated cruise line’s flagship vessel, Grand Classica, sailed from the Port of Palm Beach to Grand Bahama Island, marking the return of the line’s popular two-night ‘micro-cation’ cruise vacations. To ensure the health and safety of all passengers and crew, Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line has implemented extensive cleanliness protocols, and is adhering to all policies outlined and required by the...
Over 80 Countries Sign Up To Buyers’ Club At WTM London
Representatives from over 80 countries have signed up to WTM London’s Buyers’ Club, ensuring they maximize opportunities and get the best access to like-minded partners as the world begins to open up for travel once again. All Buyers’ Club members have the opportunity to expand connections in the dedicated lounges during the WTM London physical show taking place at ExCeL London on Mon., Nov. 1 to Wed., Nov. 3, 2021. During the WTM Virtual – which takes place on Nov. 8 and Nov. 9 -- buyers will also have the opportunity to focus on meetings with key suppliers and...
Hungary Opens Its Doors Wider
Hungary is opening its doors to travellers from outside the European Union – including from the US and Canada as member states from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). The move marks the first time the country has been open to travellers from the US and Canada since March 2020. As of August 7, those non-EU travellers are able to enter Hungary by air without any further restrictions when they present a negative PCR certificate for a COVID-19 test in either in Hungarian or English. In order to be valid, the PCR test must have been taken within 72 hours prior to...
AC, WS, NACC Welcome Feds Mandatory Vaccination Plan
Both Air Canada and the WestJet Group have responded to today’s (Aug. 13) announcement by Transport Minister Omar Alghabra regarding mandatory vaccinations for federally regulated airline employees. WestJet’s Executive Vice-President, People and Culture, Mark Porter said: “We continue to be a strong partner in Canada's vaccination rollout and are working diligently to implement the government's policy on mandatory vaccines for airline employees.” Porter continued: “Vaccinations are the most effective way to ensure the safety of our guests and employees, while curbing the...
Feeling The Loss
After 17 months, the land border between the US and Mexico remains closed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and GlobalData indicates that this could have “devastating impacts” for Mexico’s tourism industry. The data and analytics company’s latest report, Tourism Source Market Insight – United States, reveals that in 2020, the US spent the most on outbound travel with average spend per resident totaling $3,505. Canada was the second highest spending source market with $1,576, followed by Colombia with $1,286. Commenting on the findings, Rheanna Norris, travel and tourism...
Indigenous Tourism Ontario Launches FEAST
FEAST: Growing Indigenous Food Tourism in Ontario (FEAST) is being launched by Indigenous Tourism Ontario (ITO) with a vision of establishing Indigenous foods and foodways as integral parts of Ontario's identity. Over a two-year period, ITO worked with partners across the province to develop FEAST, a 5-year plan to strategically advance the Indigenous food tourism sector. With Ontario being home to many diverse Indigenous cultures and unique foodways, Indigenous food tourism experiences serve as a catalyst for increased dialogue and cultural exchange, support Indigenous-owned...
France Has A Plan
Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne, Secretary of State to the Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, in charge of Tourism, French Nationals Living Abroad and Francophonie, has announced the implementation of a recognition system for vaccines given abroad for tourists wishing to travel to France. International travellers outside the EU who are already in France, as well as those who arrive before Aug. 15, will be prioritized in order to provide them with rapid access to the health pass. Already mandatory for travellers coming from or going to France and since July 21, 2021 in all places...
Curaçao Is Booming
Curaçao has seen a surge of new and re-branded hotel developments by top hospitality brands, as well as expanded flight routes recently. From a fully renovated Marriott, to upscale all-inclusive options like Dreams and Sandals, as well as newly flagged properties like Trademark by Wyndham and Curio by Hilton Collection, Curaçao continues to offer differentiated new accommodations that cater to an increased influx of North American travelers. It has been a strong year for the island’s expansion with brands like Sandals, Wyndham and Hilton all planting a flag in...