Tour Operators
TravelBrands Loyalty Rewards Program Enters a New Era
TravelBrands has unveiled significant enhancements to its Loyalty Rewards Program that take effect today, Aug. 1, 2025. For more than a decade, the program has been loved by travel agents, and now it’s getting even better with a new sales-based tier structure, expanded redemption options, and elevated benefits across all product lines. Nathalie Tanious, President & CEO of H.I.S. Canada Travel Inc., parent company of TravelBrands, said: “We’re always listening to feedback from our travel agent partners and finding new ways to help them thrive.” Tanious explained that:...
MyEscapades redesigns website, expands portfolio of travel experiences
With the launch of its new website, MyEscapades is showcasing its newly designed, curated itineraries designed for today’s discerning traveller. The company has built its reputation on Africa and has significantly expanded its portfolio to include offering exclusive travel experiences across Europe, Asia, and Central & South America. Each trip crafted with the same dedication to detail - delivering authenticity and unforgettable moments. Firdosh Bulsara, Vice-President of MyEscapades, said: “We are known for our expertise in crafting authentic travel experiences that not...
Tourism at a Crossroads: Beyond Borders Tourism Coalition Urges Action
The Beyond Borders Tourism Coalition is calling for “urgent policy clarity and coordinated action,” saying that “the combined effects of tariffs, funding cuts, new fees to enter the United States, and uncertainty at border crossings are undermining recovery, deterring new investment, and reducing opportunities for cultural and economic exchange.” Terry Dale, President, US Tour Operators Association (USTOA), said that: “Rising tariffs and economic headwinds are cutting into consumer purchasing power, reducing demand for U.S. vacations, and forcing our members to reconsider...
TravelBrands’ SickKids Day Returns
TravelBrands is marking 10 years of giving back to SickKids Foundation -- a milestone that coincides with SickKids’ 150th birthday in 2025 – with its annual Sick Kids Day fundraising event. SickKids Day was created by TravelBrands as a way to use the power of travel to give back to a cause that touches so many lives. What began as a simple idea of turning everyday bookings into meaningful impact has become one of the company’s most important annual traditions. This year’s SickKids Day -- a dedicated fundraising event where TravelBrands pledges 1% of all sales to SickKids...
Intrepid expands its Northern and Central Asia offerings
Marking its “most significant” expansion in the region to date, Intrepid Travel has launched six new trips in Northern and Central Asia. The new itineraries, ranging from 8 to 16 days, will offer immersive locally-led experiences in remote mountain ranges, ancient cities, and nomadic communities across China, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Mongolia. The launch comes as bookings to Northern and Central Asia reach an all-time high for Intrepid, with year-on-year growth up 66%. Over the past three years, the region has seen a strong resurgence in travel, driven...
AAT Kings reveals top stargazing experiences for 2025
AAT Kings has revealed its top 2025 stargazing experiences with several destinations being recognized by the International Dark Sky Places (IDSP) program which will appeal to astrotourism clients. IDSP was founded in 2001, which certifies protected areas, parks and communities around the globe. These places protect and preserve dark sites in these ecologically sensitive areas through education and effective lighting policies including environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. Ben Hall, CEO, AAT Kings Group, explained that: “Noctourism is one of the hottest trends for 2025 and...
New coach service links AC flyers between YGK and YYZ
Air Canada has announced the expansion of its multi-modal Landline coach service to connect the Norman Rogers Airport (YGK) in Kingston, ON with Pearson International Airport (YYZ) in Toronto. The new luxury motorcoach service, featuring spacious leather seating and free Wi-Fi, will start operating Sept. 23 with two return trips daily. These are timed for connections to and from flights across Air Canada’s worldwide network. Customers travelling on the new route between Kingston YGK and Toronto YYZ will get the convenience of a single itinerary and tagged baggage from their...
Intrepid Travel names Louise Laing as VP of USA Marketing
Intrepid Travel has announced the promotion of Louise Laing to Vice President of USA Marketing. Laing’s appointment marks the start of a new leadership model for the Americas and a pivotal step in Intrepid’s ambitious 2030 growth strategy. She will report directly to Leigh Barnes, President of the Americas, and will lead all U.S. marketing efforts across consumer, brand, media, and digital. Her role comes as Intrepid restructures its North American operations into two distinct regions -- Canada and the United States -- to better support local teams and accelerate...