Destinations
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...
Barbados Resort A Safe Haven For Canadians
Barbados is becoming the destination of choice for visitors looking for a safe haven this winter. On island, The Crane Resort - an historic property that began as a Victorian health spa because of its remarkable warm breezes – took an early leadership role with its meticulously organized and science-based quarantine program. The Crane Resort today announced expansion of their program to include provisions for asymptomatic visitors who may get a positive test result after landing. According to Crane owner, Canadian Paul Doyle, isolating guests – albeit in luxury – is just...
Laying The Foundation For The Future
According to a new report by PATA, orderly and strategic tourism policy responses can mitigate the worst negative impacts of COVID-19 and, in some cases, lay a foundation for healthier, more sustainable post-pandemic growth. The research was conducted by Clickable Impact Consulting Group and supported by the Global Initiative on Disaster Risk Management (GIDRM), a project implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The COVID-19 pandemic...
An Optimistic Outlook From CHTA
While COVID-19 continues to impact global tourism, top Caribbean private sector tourism leaders are asserting that tourism is the region’s best hope for recovery and renewal and that the successful revival of the sector relies on its ability to enhance its strengths while simultaneously reshaping itself to adapt to a changing global environment. During recent presentations to travel and tourism stakeholders, Pablo Jose Torres Sojo, the recently appointed president of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), and Frank Comito, CEO and Director General of CHTA, expressed the...
Extended Getaways From Air Canada Vacations
Air Canada Vacations is bringing back a selection of all-inclusive, long stay vacation packages. Coupled with Air Canada CleanCare+ and Air Canada Vacations’ health and safety standards, these options are ideal for Canadian travellers looking to enjoy a well-deserved and worry-free break by spending some extra time under the sun this winter. Nino Montagnese, managing director at Air Canada Vacations, said: “Our strategy at Air Canada Vacations is to continuously respond to the changing needs of our customers.” Montagnese continued: “With travellers looking to take a...
Sunwing Takes Off To Cuba
Sunwing resumed service to Cuba this past weekend (Dec. 13), launching weekly flights departing from Toronto and Montreal to Varadero on Sundays. Samantha Taylor, chief marketing officer at Sunwing Travel Group, said of the new service that: “Our customers have been eagerly awaiting our return to Cuba and we’re excited to be bringing them back to this popular island under our wing,” said “Cuba has been a favourite vacation destination of Canadian travellers for over 50 years. We have brought many Canadians to this beautiful destination in the past and we’re happy to help...