Destinations
WestJet Celebrates 15 Years in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil joined WestJet President and CEO Ed Sims at WestJet's Calgary campus Friday (Oct. 26) to celebrate 15 years of investment in the province, creating jobs, driving economic growth and furthering the region's strategic business and tourism objectives. “WestJet's presence in Nova Scotia has made a significant, positive impact regionally, nationally and internationally,” said Premier McNeil. “That commitment to our province enhances trade, investment and business growth while helping attract more students, immigrants, and visitors. We congratulate...
Sunwing Adds Grenada To Sun Lineup
Sunwing has added The Spice Island – Grenada – to its list of Sun destinations for the upcoming winter season. Seasonal direct flights from Toronto to Grenada will operate on Sundays starting Dec. 16 and run through April 21. Known as the island of spice, Grenada is home to lush mountains, rainforests and waterfalls. Andrew Dawson, president of Tour Operations for Sunwing, commented, “We pride ourselves on seeking out the best destinations for our customers to experience each year. The island of Grenada is a welcome addition to our ever-expanding roster as it offers...
MSC Divina Back in the US
MSC Cruises’ MSC Divina has officially returned to the US after sailing the past season in the Mediterranean. Divina was in New York and is now making its way to Miami, completing its transatlantic journey. Through March 2019, MSC Divina will offer longer 10- and 11-night Caribbean itineraries out of Miami, as well as several shorter three-night sailings, ideal for those looking for a quick getaway as well as groups. Some longer itineraries include a stop in Cartagnea, Colombia. Nov. 19 and Dec. 9 cruises feature a baseball-themed sailing with former Major League pitcher Stan...
Hitting The Slopes In Vermont
Mike Chait thinks going downhill can be uplifting for toddlers. Chait, spokesman for Vermont's Smugglers' Notch resort, says its Snow Sport University begins familiarizing some children with snowboarding before they even reach standard kindergarten age. “The idea is to get them to fall in love with snowboarding. It's teaching them to love it,” Chait said during a Thursday Ski Vermont event in Toronto. “They're never too young to learn. If they can stand, they can learn that snowboarding is fun.” Smugglers' Notch – which bills itself as America's Family Resort and was...
Puerto Vallarta Reports No Major Hurricane Damage
Puerto Vallarta officials are reporting that after an extensive evaluation of the city after the passage of Hurricane Willa, no significant damage is being reported and operations are normal. Puerto Vallarta’s tourism infrastructure – including Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, which has remained open, trans-national roads and the marina, cruise port and Pier Los Muertos – are operating normal. According to Adrian Bobadilla, head of Civil Protection and Puerto Vallarta’s Fire Department, a total of 587 tourists and 62 locals were housed in city shelters...
In a Texas State of Mind
A group of Texas tourism officials are in Toronto this week to help keep the Lone Star State and all of its unique offerings front of mind with Canadian travel agents. One key message for agents and their clients is just how close Texas is, something most Canadians are probably not aware of. For instance, new direct flights aboard Air Canada to San Antonio can get travellers from Toronto to the famous River Walk in just 3.5 hours, perfect, say officials, for a long weekend getaway. Texas is growing in popularity with Canadians and last year surpassed the 500,000 visitor mark for the...
Spotlight on Costa Rica
Costa Rica is great for nature enthusiasts wanting to indulge in a little monkey business. The Central American country, a pioneer in the ecotourism movement, is home to different types of monkeys, a Toronto audience was told Wednesday. And, Costa Rican tour guide Michel Aranda continued, Costa Rica also provides a haven for some 922 bird species that include different types of toucans and macaws. “All of Europe doesn't have this amount of birds,” he said. Other exotic creatures that Aranda noted are found in Costa Rica include the red-eyed tree fog, which has green skin and...
Silversea Launches 2019 Cuba Collection
Silversea has launched a new collection of voyages to Cuba, now available to book. Departing for Cuba from the United States for the first time in the cruise line’s history, the 17 voyages will “unlock authentic experiences for Silversea’s guests, showcasing the best of the country through immersive land excursions in various destinations.” Silver Wind will inaugurate the collection of voyages to Cuba when it sets sail on Feb. 14, 2019, on a seven-night voyage from San Juan to Fort Lauderdale. The itinerary will include visits to the Cuban cities of Havana and Santiago de...