Destinations
Discovering the ‘real’ Caribbean with Island Routes
Jamaica-based Island Routes Caribbean Adventures is redefining what it means to discover the "real Caribbean"with a new brand philosophy: LIVE FUNNER. The adventure tour operator is projecting itself as providing "more than just tours and excursions, but adventures that take visitors beyond the resort and into the heart of the islands where setting sail, grabbing the reins, exploring lush peaks and tasting rich flavours are the experiences that become lasting memories. LIVE FUNNER inspires visitors to get off the grid, experience the warmth and vibrancy of the locals, and dive into the...
Coast Hotels opens in Yukon
Vancouver-based Coast Hotels is now taking reservations for its first property in the Yukon's capital city of Whitehorse -- the Coast High Country Inn. The former independent property will now be able to offer guests participation in the brand's popular Coast Rewards loyalty program, as well as the option to earn miles with mileage partners like Air Canada. The Coast High Country Inn offers 82 guest rooms, including 22 suites, meeting space, a restaurant, pub, exercise room and further meeting space in the adjacent Yukon Convention Centre. Coast Hotels & Resorts owns, manages and franchises...
Visit Florida buying Florida Huddle show
Visit Florida has bought the annual Florida Huddle trade show. That's the announcement Visit Florida executive VP of sales and marketing Eileen Forrow is expected to make at an on-site press conference at this year's event in St. Augustine this afternoon. Newly-minted Visit Florida president Will Seccombe hinted at the deal in an exclusive interview with CTP recently, but today's announcement will be the first official statement confirming the purchase. The long-time show has been bought from Jacksonville-based Huddle International and will be run by Visit Florida beginning next...
Tel Aviv launches new web site for LGBT travellers
After being voted this month as one of the "Top Gay Cities in the World,"by Gaycities.com, Tel Aviv's recently launched Visit Tel Aviv-Yafo web site has unveiled its new "Gay Vibe"section, highlighting LGBT-focused events, unique tourist attractions and insider tips for travellers to the city. The web site's Gay Vibe section features a calendar of upcoming events, restaurant openings, local hotspots and parties geared towards Tel Aviv residents and travellers alike, as well as a photo gallery and videos. In addition to the web site, travellers can locate (and like) updates and events though...
It’s a family affair in 2013 at The Kahala Resort
Family travel just got more affordable with The Kahala's Family Affair vacation program for 2013. The Kahala Hotel & Resort's new value-added spring special for families includes a kids eat free bonus when a minimum four-night stay is booked in a variety of room categories. Family Affair programs at The Kahala include daily breakfast buffets at Plumeria Beach House for two adults and up to two children (12 and under). Children 12 and under are also treated to free meals from a special children's menu at the restaurant, which overlooks Kahala Bay and its sandy beaches. This offer does not...
Capital accommodations ring in Victoria’s new year
New Year's celebrations are bringing some big changes to many of Victoria's favourite hotels. At the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel, the Willow Stream Spa will be expanding to include a new nail bar, and the newly renovated Ivy Ballroom, with a capacity for up to 250 guests, debuted. At the Magnolia Hotel & Spa, a full renovation of all rooms has taken in changes to the décor, all furniture, bedding, carpeting, walls and art. The job will be completed this spring. And the Chateau Victoria is undergoing a three-year renovation of its 176 rooms, which started with standard rooms this past...
Sunwing adds new Edmonton-Cancun service
Sunwing has announced the addition of winter flights from Edmonton to Cancun, Mexico. The new flights will depart on Tuesdays, commencing Feb. 12 until April 9. "We've seen a great demand for Cancun and the Mayan Riviera from Edmonton this winter,"said Andrew Dawson, president of Tour Operations. "So much so, that space was very limited on our three existing weekly flights and we were unable to satisfy the continued demand. We're delighted to continue to serve the central Alberta region with this new flight."Sunwing offers a selection of Cancun hotels at competitive prices and travellers...
Bhutan finalist for Destination Stewardship award
The Kingdom of Bhutan, a tiny country nestled high in the Eastern Himalayas, has been selected as one of three finalists in the "Destination Stewardship"category for the Tourism for Tomorrow Awards hosted by the World Travel & Tourism Council. The award goes to a destination that successfully demonstrates a program of sustainable tourism, while incorporating social, cultural, environmental and economic benefits. This year's awards panel received 133 applications from more than 46 countries on six continents, with Bhutan being short-listed to the top three of this pool. Since opening its...