Destinations
Ireland Feels ‘The Force’
Star Wars mania is even hitting the shores of the Emerald Isle as an island off Ireland’s south west coast is wowing audiences at screenings of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” Unveiled in the film’s closing minutes, this closely guarded secret ending to Episode 7 was filmed in September 2014 on Skellig Michael Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since 1977, the record-breaking movie franchise has travelled through many galaxies, and this time, director JJ Abrams along with cast and crew jetted into a little village called Portmagee, County Kerry, on Ireland’s Wild...
St. Kitts’ James Set For Retirement
After 26 years at the helm of tourism for St. Kitts and Nevis in Canada, Carolyn James has announced plans to retire from the position, effective Dec. 31. In a statement, she commented, “I would like to thank you for your support to the organization which I represented during my tenure. It has been a pleasure to have developed such strong relationships, and to have been able to work alongside all of you in the travel industry... It is heartening to know that St. Kitts and Nevis has only been able to succeed because of your interest in helping us make travel to St. Kitts and Nevis...
Cuba Cruise Now Offering Passengers Travel Insurance
Cuba Cruise by Celestyal Cruises has added an additional service for passengers – the convenience of purchasing travel insurance simultaneously with their booking. Travel medical insurance is mandatory for all visitors to Cuba and Cuba Cruise is now offering it at what it says are competitive rates “to ensure its passengers enjoy a flawless and comfortable cruise.” The insurance is from Mondial Assistance Group and is offered at an introductory rate of $5 per person per day for eight days, or $40 for the duration of the cruise. The insurance covers Cuba Cruise passengers both...
ASTA Gives Cuba Initiative A ‘Thumbs Up’
The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) is pleased with the U.S. State Department's announcement that it has reached a bilateral arrangement with Cuba to establish scheduled air service between the two countries. “ASTA congratulates the State Department on reaching an agreement with Cuba that brings us closer to restoring the right of all Americans to fly to Cuba, which has been denied them for far too long. ASTA member travel agents believe that Americans ought to be allowed to travel across the globe without restriction, allowing them to act as ambassadors of freedom and...
Hard Rock Set For Berlin Expansion
Hard Rock International has revealed plans for Hard Rock Hotel Berlin Checkpoint Charlie, a 372-room city hotel reflective of the area’s musical past and spirited present, set to open in 2020. The property will be centrally located adjacent to the renowned Checkpoint Charlie. Hard Rock Hotel Berlin is set to rise on a site where the Berlin Wall once stood. Offering a variety of amenities, Hard Rock Hotel Berlin Checkpoint Charlie will feature a rooftop pool and lounge, inviting both visitors and locals to enjoy sweeping views overlooking Checkpoint Charlie and Berlin’s...
G Adventures’ National Geographic Journeys Launched
With the official launch of National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures on Dec. 15, travel agents can now sign up clients on a new lineup of 70 trips connecting travellers to local cultures and destinations supported and researched by National Geographic’s explorers and storytellers. Examples include a game drive in South Africa with a scientist from the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Carnivore Conservation Program, a dual-narrative walking tour in Israel led by both Israeli and Palestinian guides who were trained by a National Geographic Emerging Explorer, and spending time at the...
Windstar Sets Sail From Puerto Rico
Windstar Cruises recently completed its inaugural voyage from Puerto Rico – for the first time ever. On Dec. 5, Star Legend set sail from San Juan, Puerto Rico, marking the first time Windstar has launched from a US port of call in recent history. Windstar’s San Juan & the Virgin Islands and Caribbean Hideaway itineraries, both new for 2016, offer travellers a chance to experience Little Bay, Montserrat (pictured), where Windstar is the first cruise line to make regular calls to the port since the 1995 eruption of the Soufriere Hills volcano that buried the island’s...
Breathless in Cabo
AMResorts reports Breathless Cabo San Lucas will welcome its first guests tomorrow (Dec. 17). Breathless Cabo San Lucas, situated on Medano beach and near famed Cabo San Lucas nightlife, offers luxury and lively entertainment for singles, couples or friends. The169-suite resort promises an around-the-clock schedule of parties and monthly themed special events. “From sensuality shows to mega dance parties, the experience will always be high-energy and vivacious,” AMResorts says. Highlight amenities include suites with private terraces offering ocean and marina views; seven...