Destinations
Record Setting
Israel has set an all-time record for tourist arrivals with 3.6 million people visiting in 2017 – up 25% over 2016. According to the Central Bureau of Statistics, the final tourism statistics for 2017 are as follows: 3,611,800 million tourist entries were recorded, 25% increase on 2016 and 29% on 2015; 290,000 tourist entries were recorded in December 2017, about 17% more than December 2016 and 47% more than December 2015. The United States remains the largest source country for incoming tourists, with 778,800 tourist entries in 2017, 20% more than 2016. The second largest source...
Montreal Expects 4% Increase in Tourist Numbers
Montreal is proving popular with tourists. According to Tourisme Montréal projections, the city will receive 11.6 million visitors – a 4% annual increase – this year and approximately $4.3 billion in tourist spending. This growth will be primarily attributable to the overseas market, which is expected to grow by 6.1%. Increased interest in the city will be sustained following Montreal's 375th anniversary celebrations thanks to new direct flights, tourism sector development, buzz surrounding the destination and investments in various marketing campaigns. “Our destination...
Universal Orlando Set For Mardi Gras Fun
Universal Orlando Resort has announced the headlining acts of its 2018 Mardi Gras celebration – described as the most authentic Mardi Gras event outside of New Orleans, complete with Cajun-style cuisine, dazzling costumed performers and a parade with countless beads. From Feb. 3 through April 7, Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras 2018 will offer more opportunities than ever before for your clients to experience Florida’s “Biggest Party.” On 13 select nights, fans can sing along to popular hits as some of the biggest names in music take the stage, including Grammy Award-winning...
New Embassy Suites Opens in Houston
Embassy Suites by Hilton has expanded in Houston, Texas with the opening of the 208-suite Embassy Suites by Hilton Houston West – Katy. The all-suite hotel is situated about 30 miles from both of Houston's main airports and is located near the Park 10 Business District on the west side of Houston's Energy Corridor District, near Katy Town Center, the Merrell Center, Baseball USA, Typhoon Texas, Katy Mills' Mall and The Memorial City Mall. Featuring two-room suites, the property provides free, cooked-to-order breakfast, complimentary WiFi and an evening reception with drinks and...
NĀRAT Hosting ‘Ultimate Egypt’ Fam
NĀRAT is inviting agents on an exclusive educational fam to Egypt, May 22-29. Participating agents will learn about Egypt’s selling highlights with all major sites visited, including the Great Pyramids, the Sphinx, the Valley of the Kings and the historic locations of Luxor, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Philae and Karnak. Agents also have the opportunity to visit Abu Simbel, the historic Port City of Alexandria and have the ability to extend their fam program with an extension to Egypt’s Red Sea. The Ultimate Egypt Deluxe Fam also includes a sail down the iconic Nile. The fam...
Turkey Tourism Numbers On The Rise
Turkey tourist numbers continue to rise. Turkey, home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, continues to attract visitors with its rich culture, history, stunning landscapes and gastronomical delights. Turkey attracted 30.7 million foreign visitors in the first 11 months of 2017, the Culture and Tourism Ministry announced on Dec. 29. The ministry said the figure rose by over 27.7% on a yearly basis, compared to 24 million in January-November 2016. The number of foreign arrivals saw a 22.13% year-on-year increase in November, hitting 1.65 million. Russian nationals made up the...
Ottawa Set For Winterlude 2018
Let the fun begin! The nation's capital is preparing for the upcoming 40th edition of the popular winter festival, Winterlude, running from Feb. 2-19. With most activities concentrated on weekends, official sites include: Confederation Park (aka Crystal Garden) in downtown Ottawa: magnificent ice sculptures and some fun evening DJ events. Gatineau’s Jacques Cartier Park (aka Snowflake Kingdom): a big hit with families (and the young at heart) with snow and ice slides, kids’ entertainment, and an introduction to winter sports. The Rideau Canal Skateway: everything from...
Think Pink, Escape to Bermuda
If you have clients looking to escape the frigid temperatures in Canada, Bermuda may have the answer – with its Bermuda’s Pink Sale, offering savings of up to 50% off on hotels. The special offer must be booked by Jan. 23 for travel through April 30 or Sept. 5 to Dec. 31. Hotel rates start at $117.50. Participating partners include the Coco Reef Resort, Coral Beach and Tennis Club (a private members-only club), Fairmont Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort and Spa, Grotto Bay Beach Resort & Spa, Rosedon Hotel, Royal Palms Hotel, Fairmont...