Tour Operators
ACV launches new contest for travellers and a chance to win $5,000
Air Canada Vacations has launched the first-ever Travellers' Top Picks Awards in celebration of the company's 50th anniversary. The awards give Canadians a chance to vote for their favourite global destinations—and enter the Travellers' Top Picks Contest for a chance to win $5,000 in Air Canada e-gift cards towards their dream vacation*. Starting today, Canadians can cast their votes across 10 travel categories curated by an expert Air Canada Vacations panel, from sun-soaked beach escapes to relaxing retreats and family-friendly adventures. When voting, Canadians can share...
TTC names Simon Jones CEO; Melissa DaSilva deputy CEO
The Travel Corporation (TTC) has permanently appointed Simon Jones as Chief Executive Officer, and Melissa DaSilva as Deputy Chief Executive Officer TTC Tour Brands, following Melissa’s tenure as interim CEO since October 2024. Jones joins TTC from Away Resorts, where he successfully led a turnaround of the business through to a recent financial restructuring. Prior to this, he served as Managing Director of Premier Inn and Restaurants, overseeing a team of 33,000 employees across 1,300 operating units. Jones' appointment brings significant relevant experience to TTC at a pivotal...
Planeterra announces new round of funding
Planeterra has announced a new round of funding through the Global Community Tourism Fund. Since its launch in 2022, the program has awarded 40 grants across 23 countries, helping local communities develop and enhance sustainable tourism experiences that create social, economic, and environmental benefits. Thanks to the generous contributions of Evaneos and other committed donors, this latest round will distribute US$50,000, providing individual grants of up to US$3,500 along with mentorship and capacity-building support. About the Global Community Tourism Fund The Fund provides...
Journey Beyond highlights luxury train travel through Australia
The lure of train travel during a vacation is strong for many Canadians, and they can now consider some new rail tour options in Australia. Those that want to maximize their train journey experience can choose from amongst three rail tour services that crisscross the nation. These are the east-to-west Indian Pacific, the coastal north-to-south Great Southern and the famous north-to-south continental interior Ghan. The Ghan explores the centre of the country on a journey between Darwin and Adelaide, with a mid-way stop in Alice Springs. The Great Southern operates along Australia’s...
Intrepid launches Myanmar earthquake appeal
Intrepid Travel has launched an emergency appeal through its not-for-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, following the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake, which struck Myanmar on March 28, 2025. The earthquake has caused widespread damage across the country and parts of Thailand, and all funds raised will go directly towards providing medical support and aid to communities through Intrepid’s trusted local NGO partner in Myanmar. The Intrepid Foundation will match all donations up to $100,000 AUD. Initial reports indicate that hundreds of people have been killed, with thousands more...
TDC’s annual conference wraps up in Spain
Transat Distribution Canada (TDC)'s National Leadership Conference, hosted at the Club Med Magna Marbella, on the Spanish Costa del Sol, concluded on March 27, following a series of networking events between owners and managers. “I am really proud of what TDC has offered its owners and managers this week. They were able to develop action plans with nearly 30 preferred partners as part of the Partners Business Reviews, to optimize their business relationships," said Dianne Jackson, Director, Franchise and Affiliate Members. Attendees engaged in short TDC Talks on topics including...
Contiki announces 2025 spring flash sale, now through April 8
Contiki has announced its annual Spring Flash Sale, offering travellers savings of up to 20% off across over 30 diverse itineraries, including some of the summer’s most popular destinations. The sale runs from March 25 to April 8, 2025. “With this upcoming summer travel season projected to be one of the busiest, this sale is a great opportunity for travel advisors to book their clients’ next vacation at a competitive price,” says Melissa DaSilva, interim CEO of TTC Tour Brands. “From trending destinations including Croatia and Thailand to iconic European cities like...
TTC Tour Brands extends 15% off tours during “September on Sale”
TTC Tour Brands, including brands Insight Vacations, Trafalgar, Brendan Vacations and Costsaver has launched September on Sale, with savings of up to 15% off on select September 2025 departures booked now through May 9, 2025. Advisors can take advantage of this limited-time opportunity to boost earnings while helping clients secure the best value during one of the most popular travel months of the year. “September travel is a golden opportunity for travel advisors to lock in high-value bookings and maximize their earnings,” says Whitney Ramirez, SVP of Sales at TTC Tour Brands....