Destinations
‘We’re Not There Yet, But We’re Getting Closer’
During an announcement and briefing in Coquitlam, B.C., yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was asked about reopening Canada’s borders to international travellers and the roll that vaccination rates would play in the planning of such a reopening. Responding to a question on vaccination rates and the reopening of Canada's borders, the Prime Minister said: “First of all, all of our conversations right now are about what support we can give and what ease we can offer to vaccinated travellers. We know that if you continue to be not fully vaccinated you still have to do a...
Vrbo’s Premier Host Makes Its Debut In Canada
Vrbo has now made its Premier Host program available in Canada. The Expedia Group company refined the Premier status program back in April of this year to better serve rental owners and property managers at an account level across all listings, and to provide enhanced benefits and is now live for Vrbo rental vacations in the Canadian market. Vrbo's Premier Host program recognizes and rewards partners who consistently go above and beyond for guests. The program name is rebranded ‘Premier Host’ from ‘Premier Partner’ to help vacation rental partners unlock new business...
Flair Takes Off To New Brunswick
Flair Airlines continues to expand its network in Canada with the inauguration of service out of Saint John Airport (YSJ) in New Brunswick. Commenting on the new flights, Flair Airlines president and CEO, Stephen Jones said that: “New Brunswick deserves more choices and competition for air travel. The only way we are going to restart the travel and tourism sector and contribute to the economic recovery is by ensuring affordable options exist now and in the future.” Jones continued: “Residents of the Saint John area have been paying way too much for way too long. Flair is...
Air Canada Launches Coast-To-Coast Flight Pass
Air Canada has launched the Coast-to-Coast Flight Pass, a prepaid package of one-way flights – which is available for purchase until July 27, 2021. Flight Pass packages available for purchase include four, eight or twenty credit passes valid for one, two or five travellers, respectively. The pass is good for travel until July 27, 2022; and with Flight Pass, travellers are able to book, change, or cancel up to one hour prior to departure. Flight Pass can be used to traveller to any destination Air Canada flies to in Canada. And it should be noted that in order to use Air...
Bonaire Picks Mercera As Its New Director For Tourism
Miles Mercera has been named the new Director of Tourism Corporation Bonaire. His appointment is effective immediately. Mercera brings decades of experience in the global hospitality and tourism industry to his new role, having led programs in both the private and public sector, focusing on business strategy, marketing, and brand and destination development. Said Mercera: “It is a privilege to work alongside industry partners to continue to not only build on Bonaire’s reputation as a pristine, eco-conscious and welcoming destination, but to also enhance that image by showcasing...
Know Before You Go
Quarantine restrictions for fully vaccinated Canadians have been relaxed and many Canadians are eager to travel, however, Orion Travel Insurance reminds travellers, that a Level 3 Global Affairs travel advisory remains in effect, and Canadians need to understand the ongoing uncertainty associated with international travel. Kellee Irwin, Vice President, Orion Travel Insurance, points out that: “Entry requirements can vary by destination whether it be a different province, state or country. Travellers need to monitor those requirements closely and be prepared to carry additional...
Oystin Partners, Strataconnex Forge Strategic Partnership
Oystin Partners and Strataconnex are joining forces to bundle unparalleled full service global expertise in airline distribution strategy and negotiation support. With over 120 GDS contract negotiations for carriers of all sizes and on all continents, the combined unrivaled expertise and wealth of prior work will ensure airlines can avail themselves of the best-in-class experience base. Oystin Partners will expand its full set of strategy development, evaluations, quantification, and negotiation preparation services with the addition of Marc Rosenberg (Strataconnex) to the existing...
ACTA Warns: Agencies Will Fail Without Federal Supports
ACTA is warning the federal government that many travel agencies and independent travel agents could fail now that federal supports are being aggressively wound down this month. The association has been lobbying extensively for continued support for the travel sector, given that borders are still closed and travel advisories remain – and there is no clear plan for re-opening. There has been no agreement from the government to extend support to the sector, even with a provision in the budget for some support to be extended to November. Wendy Paradis, ACTA president, said: “We...