Hotels
Building loyalty
When the results of Baxter Travel Media's annual Agents' Choice Awards were tallied, it quickly became apparent that many of the favourites have come out on top multiple years in a row – some for more than a decade, others still since their respective categories were first introduced, reports assistant editor, Ann Ruppenstein in a special Agents' Choice Extra in this week's digital edition of Canadian Travel Press. So how exactly do these brands continue to earn the trust and loyalty of Canadian Travel Press and Travel Courier readers and travel agents across the country? For Michelle...
Summer Savings From Warwick Paradise Island
To celebrate the inaugural summer of the new adults-only, all-inclusive Warwick Paradise Island - Bahamas, the resort has launched a Paradise Summer Savings promotion featuring up to 44% off nightly all-inclusive rack rates. The offer is valid on bookings made by July 31, 2017 for travel throughout 2018. As an added bonus, guests who book a minimum of three nights at Warwick Paradise Island -Bahamas receive a spa credit for use at the resort's on-site boutique Amber Spa. The spa credit ranges from $30 to $150 and varies according to number of nights and room category booked....
Ritz-Carlton Makes A Splash
The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. – part of Marriott International, Inc. – is setting sail in 2019 with luxury yachting and cruises. Created by The Ritz-Carlton and maritime experts Douglas Prothero and Lars Clasen, in collaboration with funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P., The Ritz-Carlton will provide luxury hospitality service under a long-term operating agreement. Named The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, this venture represents a unique foray into the cruise industry for a luxury hotel operator. The first of three lavish cruising yachts in this series is...
Get Real With Sandals
Sandals Resorts is continuing its cross-Canada tour, conducting a series of educational workshops, August through September 2017. Space is limited and agents are encouraged to register early to avoid disappointment. Especially important in advance of the busy fall-winter season and the competitive (and often confusing) myriad of all-inclusive vacations, Sandals Resorts is challenging agents to get a real understanding of their difference – through real up-to-the minute product information, real sales and marketing tips, real commission strategies to boost productivity and profits,...
Exploring Our Own Backyard
According to new data from the Expedia Group, domestic travel is on the rise in Canada. In fact in 2016, travel demand by Canadians to domestic cities rose 15% compared to 2015. And that trend continued to increase in the first quarter of 2017, which saw over 10% more demand than in 2016. With domestic travellers accounting for over 60% of the country’s demand, Canadian hoteliers have every reason to shift their strategic focus to local tourism. David Debeule, Canada area manager for Expedia, observed: “As Canada celebrates 150 years of Confederation, the trend toward domestic...
A Leader In Innovation
Sandals Resorts International (SRI) is sharing its plans for its newest resort in Saint Lucia – the all-suite Sandals LaSource St. Lucia. The resort is located along Pigeon Island Beach and adjacent to Sandals Grande St. Lucian, Sandals LaSource St. Lucia will be the fourth Sandals Resorts property in Saint Lucia, expanding Sandals’ exclusive exchange program to “Stay at One, Play at Four.” The resort, which breaks ground later this year, will introduce three new restaurant concepts to the brand, the American-inspired Tavern, Greek restaurant Éros and an authentic noodle...
Curio Collection by Hilton Debuts in Asia Pacific
The Sanya Yazhou Bay Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton, is open, the first Curio Collection property in Greater China and Asia Pacific. Located on the West Coast of Hainan Island's southernmost city, Sanya Yazhou Bay Resort is only a short drive from renowned attractions to discover such as Dongtian Park, Nanshan Temple and the unique Tianya Haijiao. Sanya Yazhou Bay Resort's 267 rooms and suites include large soaking tubs and boast panoramic views of the sea, pool or tropical gardens. Other amenities include five food and beverage options – including a rooftop bar, a...
Return of the Queen
Victoria's Fairmont Empress, named in honour of Queen Victoria, will celebrate its official “Grand Opening” on June 28 following a two-year, $60 million restoration. The two-year project celebrates both the history and natural beauty of the west coast, and elevates the historical property into a new era of modern luxury. Recently unveiled to guests, the restoration's final phase showcases a renovated health club and pool; refreshed Willow Stream Spa with an expanded lounge, updated reception and revitalized retail area; and 229 luxurious guest rooms. Gracing the exterior of...