Destinations
New winery a first for Kamloops
The first winery based in Kamloops, BC has just opened, proving that British Columbia has many areas suitable for growing grapes. Harper's Trail Estate Winery is named for the cattle drive trail of pioneer rancher Thaddeus Harper. The first wines, made by Michael Bartier at Okanagan Crush Pad, reflect this emerging region with flavours that the team believes will soon be known as characteristic of the Kamloops. Tucked into the city outskirts on the bank of the South Thompson River, the vineyard sits among rolling hills of sage and grass, home to bighorn sheep, bears and birds. The backdrop of...
Top Waikiki property debuts renewed rooms, services
One of Hawaii's leading luxury hotels has completed a property-wide revitalization, reinforcing its longstanding tradition of leadership in the industry. This comprehensive physical/service renewal at the iconic Halekulani is in keeping with the values that have made the hotel a global destination. New guest experiences, services and programs will be continually unveiled throughout the summer and fall of 2012. Each of the 453 rooms and suites has been refreshed to capture the natural light and airy visual expanses on to the sea. All guestrooms are outfitted with new furnishings, new...
Coast golfers raise $50,000 for Salvation Army
The annual Coast Hotels & Resorts Golf Classic hit its 10th anniversary milestone July 12, by raising $50,000 for the Salvation Army. Some 130 hospitality industry suppliers, managers and supporters left their suits behind to sport their most fashionable golf attire in support of a good cause. Raising funds for the Salvation Army allows Coast Hotels to earmark where the funds will be spent, enabling the hotel brand to donate to communities where they do business, said Robert Pratt, president of Coast. The company now owns, manages and franchises over 40 hotel and resort properties throughout...
Island Air enhances inter-island service
Island Air has unveiled a new business model featuring a complete image and brand overhaul. The new brand coincides with the arrival of the airline's new common fleet type, the ATR in August. The comprehensive rebranding touches every aspect of the airline -- from an enhanced web site to a newly inspired aircraft livery design, including a new logo mark and identity. Along with the new look, Island Air is upgrading its fleet with ATR42 and ATR72 aircraft. The new aircraft are more fuel efficient, and carry more passengers than the Dash 8 aircraft that are being replaced. The changes and...
Conference to review total travel experience
At the upcoming Future Travel Experience 2012, every aspect of the passenger experience on the ground will be examined for improvements through collaboration and innovation. Hosted by the Vancouver Airport Authority, the event will deliver an outstanding conference, social, awards and exhibition program. It will be held Sept. 5-7 at the Westin Bayshore Hotel in Vancouver. The goal for FTE 2012 is to play an important role in creating dialogue between stakeholders, and instigating effective initiatives for the future....
Volunteer tourism to help Kauai environment
Hanalei Colony Resort has partnered with the Limahuli Garden and Preserve in Kauai to give guests the chance to help the environment. Under its "Beach & Botany"package, guests have to commit a minimum of two days, each lasting four hours, to assist the Garden's staff in a variety of different tasks depending on physical capabilities. These range from helping out in the nursery to doing ecological restoration in Limahuli Preserve. Prices start from US$1,964 and include five night's accommodation in an Ocean View two-bedroom condo, a picnic basket lunch for two, a three-hour kayak tour for two...
Run the alpine trails at Sun Peaks Resort
The slopes of Sun Peaks Resort near Kamloops, BC are well known to skiers and boarders, but now they are becoming a new destination for those looking for a unique trail running experience. With a perfect surface and perfect temperature, a number of maintained trails fan out from the resort, making it an excellent place for runners to challenge themselves. They connect to the village, which has all the remedies and amenities to help relieve muscle strain. Sun Peaks will host the upcoming North Face Dirty Feet Mountain Run (Sept. 8), but it is also proving to be a popular place to train and hit...
Mexi-Go! Show kicks off Mexico winter season
The Mexico Tourism Board has partnered with Mexi-Go! to co-ordinate "the most important Mexico event of the year in Canada."The Mexi-Go! Travel and Trade Expo will showcase Mexico's destinations and attractions, and key guests will be Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit. This event takes place on Sept. 7 and 8 at the West Building of the Vancouver Convention Centre. The Expo is ideally timed for promoting Canadian tour packages and Mexico products when Canadians are planning their upcoming winter vacation. Already more than 800,000 Canadians have travelled to Mexico, from January to April...