Destinations
WestJet Adds Mexico Flights From Vancouver
WestJet is expanding its winter schedule serving British Columbia's Lower Mainland, enhancing its sun and leisure connectivity from Vancouver International Airport to some of Mexico's most popular destinations. Additionally, as part of its connectivity to Mexico, WestJet has added weekly non-stop service between Vancouver and Ixtapa. Chris Avery, WestJet Vice-President, Network Planning, Alliances and Commercial Development, said: “We are thrilled to bring more opportunity for our guests across B.C.'s Lower Mainland to seamlessly connect to their favourite destinations...
U.S. Virgin Islands Showcased At Toronto Caribbean Carnival
The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) took part in the Toronto Caribbean Carnival as part of the Department of Tourism's ongoing cultural exchange partnerships to collaborate with various Caribbean and diaspora events. As one of North America's most celebrated Caribbean-themed events, Toronto Caribbean Carnival's grand parade serves as a spotlighted opportunity for members of the diaspora to showcase aspects of the collective cultures of the Greater and Lesser Antilles. Joseph Boschulte, Commissioner of Tourism for the U.S. Virgin Islands, said: “We are thrilled to be a part of this...
IGTOA Calls For Limits On Galapagos Tourism Following UNESCO Report
Following the release of UNESCO’s 2023 State of Conservation Report raising concerns about unsustainable tourism growth in the Galapagos, the islands International Galapagos Tour Operators Association (IGTOA) is calling upon the government of Ecuador to limit land-based tourism growth in the Galapagos Islands and to better regulate this rapidly growing sector of the islands’ tourism industry. In a letter to Mauricio Efraín Baus Palacios, Ecuador’s permanent UNESCO delegate, IGTOA asked the government of Ecuador to make good on its 2017 commitment to adopt a zero-growth...
Dominican Republic Launches Agents’ Reward Platform
Destination Dominican Republic is making it clear that it is committed to the travel trade across North America, Latin America and the Caribbean with the launch of its online rewards platform, Dominican Republic Travel Rewards. The platform was created in association with MyBookingRewards.com, and agents now have the chance to reap significant rewards with $1 per room, per night available on holiday bookings made with more than 170 properties country wide. Agents can reap the benefits of booking client holidays with unlimited rewards available on actualised bookings that are logged...
CHIEF Returns To Miami In 2023
The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) is bringing its Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF) back to Miami in 2023. CHIEF will be held from Nov. 29 to Dec. 1, 2023, at the Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon. CHTA President Nicola Madden-Greig said the Caribbean region’s premier engagement, networking, education, and best practice sharing event for hospitality industry professionals is back, and this year delegates will explore the theme “A New Era of Caribbean Tourism: Balancing Tradition, Technology and Community”. Said Madden-Greig: “We want to...
An Ode To Vietnam
From the stunning Halong Bay where 1,969 limestone islands jet out in contrast from the water to the charming lantern-lit streets of Hội An Ancient Town, Vietnam is a destination loaded with diverse cultural and scenic attractions. With a delicious food scene, picturesque idyllic beaches and a storied history, the country has something that’s bound to appeal to all types of travellers. Fresh off the Classic Vietnam: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City itinerary on a Canadian agent FAM with G Adventures, Travel Courier caught up with travel advisors from across the country to share insights...
Chris Thompson Retiring As Brand USA President & CEO
Chris Thompson will be retiring as president and CEO of Brand USA as of May 31, 2024. Following a successful tenure leading the organization, Thompson has decided to step down and ‘pursue life beyond work.’ During his time as President and CEO, Thompson has played a pivotal role in promoting the United States as a premier travel destination. Under his leadership, Brand USA has achieved remarkable milestones, including increased international visitation, and enhanced global awareness of the diverse offerings across the country. Thompson's strategic vision and unwavering...
Railbookers Launches 5 New Switzerland Packages
Railbookers has launched five new, independent train holidays in Switzterland; and each of the trips can be booked for travel as soon as tomorrow or up to two years in advance. Starting with Zurich and Lucerne, a seven-day holiday to two of the country’s most sought-after cities, the new itineraries also include the nine-day Swiss Mountain Peaks, The GoldenPass Express, and Zurich and The GoldenPass Express, and Swiss Mountain Peaks from Zurich trips, and 10-day journeys with St Moritz, The Top of Europe, and The Matterhorn from Milan and The Matterhorn, The Top of Europe,...