Destinations
Lindblad, Island Conservation Helping The Galapagos
Lindblad Expeditions and Island Conservation have launched the Galápagos Island Relief Fund to provide immediate financial relief for the people of the Galápagos Islands, who have been devastated by the socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tourism accounts for more than 80% of the Galápagos economy, so in March, when travel restrictions suddenly halted the tourism industry, it caused profound hardship for families, businesses, and the community at large. In the first two months of the pandemic alone, the islands’ economy lost $50 million, almost a quarter of the...
72 Hour Ban On Flights From The UK
In a statement, the Government of Canada indicated that it is closely monitoring the genetic variant of the virus that causes COVID-19 identified in the United Kingdom and is working with international partners, including the World Health Organization, to better understand this variant and its impacts. Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau convened a meeting of the Incident Response Group to discuss the new variant of COVID-19 identified in the United Kingdom. Minister of Health Patty Hajdu, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Bill Blair, Minister of Transport Marc Garneau,...
St. Vincent and the Grenadines Enters New Phase
Responding to the continued increase of COVID-19 cases in the United States and Canada, among others, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is continuing to enforce entry protocols for travellers, with the latest phase (#8) now in place. St. Vincent and the Grenadines never officially shut its borders to tourists and remains open for business, poised to welcome visitors once they are permitted to travel from their respective countries. The destination has taken strict measures to slow the spread of COVID-19 and currently has 17 active cases. During Phase #8 – in effect as of Dec....
Air Canada, Qatar Airways Sign Deal
Air Canada has the start of a strategic cooperation agreement with Qatar Airways allowing both airlines to expand their relationship, in conjunction with the launch of Air Canada's non-stop service between Toronto and Doha. The new agreement will provide customers access to a multitude of connections across the Middle East, Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, through Qatar Airways' Doha hub. Calin Rovinescu, President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Canada, said: “I am delighted to strengthen our relationship with Qatar Airways, one of the world's best airlines, which will...
EU Council Updates Its List
After a review under the recommendation on the gradual lifting of the temporary restrictions on non-essential travel into the EU, the Council has updated the list of countries for which travel restrictions should be lifted. In making the announcement, it noted that as stipulated in the Council recommendation, this list will continue to be reviewed regularly and, as the case may be, updated. In a release, the Council indicated that based on the criteria and conditions set out in the recommendation, as from Dec. 16, 2020 member states should gradually lift the travel restrictions at...
WestJet Adds Sun, Dreamliner In January
WestJet has released its updated January schedule that features Dreamliner service to Mexico, along with more flights to sun destinations in the Caribbean, the United States (including Hawaii), Mexico and Central America. Arved von zur Muehlen, chief commercial officer for WestJet, said: “WestJet continues to welcome the introduction of new COVID-19 testing programs and pilots to ensure that our guests can confidently and safely travel abroad," said "With new destinations and the introduction of our Dreamliner service to Cancun and Puerto Vallarta, guests can book with additional...
2020: Worst Year Ever
New data from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) reveals that international arrivals fell by 72% over the first 10 months of 2020. Restrictions on travel, low consumer confidence and a global battle to contain COVID-19 all contributed to what the WTO describes as the “worst year on record in the history of tourism.” According to the WTOs data, destinations welcomed 900 million fewer international tourists between January and October when compared with the same period of 2019. This translates into a loss of US$935 billion in export revenues from international tourism, more...
VISIT FLORIDA Opens Huddle 2021 Registration
VISIT FLORIDA has opened registration for Florida Huddle which will take place virtually Feb. 8 to Feb. 12, 2021. Dana Young, president and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, said: “We are looking forward to showcasing all the Sunshine State has to offer for domestic and international buyers, wholesalers and product managers at Florida Huddle 2021. This event is imperative to ensuring Florida is top-of-mind as the demand for travel increases.” The week-long virtual event will feature a mix of virtual networking opportunities, educational sessions and interactive experiences. In...