Destinations
ASTA Applauds Bill to Repeal Cuba Travel Ban
The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) fully supports the Freedom to Travel to Cuba Act, bipartisan legislation introduced Jan. 29 that would fully repeal restrictions on travel by American citizens and legal residents to Cuba. “ASTA has long believed that Americans ought to be allowed to travel across the globe without restriction, allowing them to act as ambassadors of freedom and American values abroad,” said Zane Kerby, ASTA president and CEO. “While the Administration’s recent actions on Cuba were a step in the right direction, it is Congress that needs to step up to...
Air France ‘Oh la la Deals’ from YVR
There’s still time to catch the special offer by Air France on its new schedule of flights between Vancouver and Paris, that will start this spring. With the “Oh la la deals” promotion, airfares start at $949 for economy class seats on flights out of Vancouver to many European destinations, as well as Beirut, Tel Aviv and Dubai. This covers numerous cities, including Venice, Lisbon, Madrid, Athens, Istanbul, Florence, Moscow, Barcelona and many more. And these fares include a free stopover in Paris. The promotion runs until Feb. 5, and applies to trips with departures between...
Transat Introduces New Haiti Packages
Transat has introduced new vacation packages to Haiti from Montreal. Available for seven or 14 nights, these more “traditional” packages include roundtrip flight, transfers and accommodation in one of three hotels offered in Port-au-Prince or at one of four resorts on the Côte des Arcadins. Meal plans vary according to the hotel booked. Transat Holidays has enhanced its existing offer to this Caribbean destination renowned for its historic sites, natural beauty, superb beaches and many sports and water activities. Since January 2013, Transat has been actively involved in...
Welcome Back
Ireland's iconic Ashford Castle will begin welcoming guests back through its doors in March following a restoration program that has completely restored the historic building. Having acquired the Castle in June 2013, Red Carnation Hotels, a family owned collection of 16 luxury award-winning hotels, has meticulously worked to preserve Ashford’s history and charm while enhancing its guest facilities and levels of luxury and comfort. Once owned by Lord and Lady Ardilaun of the Guinness family, the castle has welcomed royalty, celebrities and heads of state across its illustrious...
Jammin’ in Jamaica
Most Canadians think of Jamaica as a sun and sand vacation destination; however many travellers may be surprised by the number of festivals and events held on the island throughout the year. “Jamaica has a fantastic year-long calendar of festivals and events,” said Jamaica's director of tourism, Paul Pennicook. “These activities include world-class food, music and sporting events. We offer so much more than just sun, sand and sea and our annual festivals give Canadians the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of home, all while enjoying Jamaica's culture and flavours.” The...
Sala Joins Royal Hawaiian Center
Royal Hawaiian Center has announced the hiring of Aaron J. Sala as its director of Cultural Affairs. Sala will join the Festival Companies’ executive management team and is responsible for direction and oversight of all resources and activities promoting Hawaiian culture at the centre. He will also assist in integrating both Hawaiian management practices and ho‘okipa (hospitality) in order to enhance the guest experience at the centre. Sala joins Royal Hawaiian Center after having held various instructional positions within the University of Hawaii system over the last 12 years,...
Into The Wild
Goway Travel is expanding its Zambia product, following a 10-day exploratory trip by product manager, Kirsty Perring. “I was completely blown away by the country, the magnificent game, the exquisite lodges and camps, the friendly and hospitable people, the mouth watering cuisine and the breathtaking scenery,” enthused Perring, who further commented that many of the travellers she encountered were third- and fourth-time visitors to the country, though a significant number were first-time visitors to Africa. She notes the misconception that Zambia is for more experienced Africa...
New Branding for Oahu Hotel
After US$2.5 million in renovations, Aqua Hospitality’s Waikiki Joy Hotel (Oahu) has emerged with a brand new name, Aqua Oasis, and is now part of the Aqua Hotels and Resorts brand. Hotel improvements include redesigned guest rooms, common areas and exterior landscaping. The urban loft meets island paradise theme was inspired by the resort’s large spacious suites and loft-like apartments, ideal for groups and...