Tour Operators
Transat to Sell Jonview Canada
Transat A.T. Inc. has signed an agreement for the sale of its wholly owned business unit Jonview Canada, the country’s leading incoming tour operator, for $44 million to Japanese multinational H.I.S. Co. Ltd., which specializes in travel distribution. The transaction is subject to the approval of the Competition Bureau of Canada and to other usual conditions. It is expected to close on or around Nov. 30. The price will be adjusted at closing. “With this transaction, Transat has carried out the implementation of its strategic refocusing around its leisure travel operations in...
Contiki Launches ‘Travel Makes Better Humans’ Contest
Contiki has launched a new open age contest catered specifically to the travel agent community as a way to celebrate the impact they make on their clients’ lives. By recognizing that agents are the magic makers that send young Canadians out into the world and watch them come back better versions of themselves, Contiki is asking agents to tell their best “Travel Makes Better Humans” story (either about a client they sent away, or about themselves) for a chance to win one of four Europe trips (including airfare) for 2018. Should the winning agent be over the age of 35, they will be...
An Island For Everyone
Participants in a trio of Hawaiian trade shows are using the events to underscore their message that Hawaiian vacations differ markedly, depending on the island chosen. ALOHA CANADA 2017! kicked off in Toronto Tuesday evening, will be held in Calgary tonight and Vancouver Thursday. “All the islands are unique, very different from each other,” Laci Goshi, brand manager of the Hawaii Tourism Authority, told Press Today in Toronto. “There's an island for everyone.” The shows feature island-specific presentations and have hotel and tour operator representatives, along with...
Sunwing Introduces Private Jet Service
The Sunwing Travel Group has added a new line of business to its diverse corporate portfolio with the introduction of SunwingJets, a luxury private jet service. Travellers wishing to experience the ultimate in luxury and flexibility can select from a fleet ranging from economical turboprops to executive class luxury jets comfortably accommodating up to 15 passengers. SunwingJets exclusive Concierge Service offers attentive 24/7 service and a highly personalized inflight experience featuring a range of amenities and dining options. Widely known for offering a variety of options to...
G Adventures Unveils ‘18-to-Thirtysomethings’ Product Line
G Adventures has rebranded its popular “Yolo” style of youth tours with a new name and look – “18-to-Thirtysomethings.” The change is intended to help make it clear that the tour style is designed for those between 18 and 39 years of age. It’s also meant to align with a growing segment of G Adventures’ business. Since its launch in 2012, its previous “Yolo” trip style saw an increased global passenger growth of 85%, outpacing the small-group tour operator’s eight other travel styles during the same time period. In Canada, the top destinations among this...
Cruising With Sunwing
Sunwing is encouraging travellers to set sail with Marella Cruises (formerly known as TUI Cruises) with value-added cruise packages on board the Marella Discovery 2. While the ship may have a new name, officials say passengers can look forward to the same friendly and attentive service enjoyed on TUI Discovery 2, along with all their favourite inclusions and itineraries. Those booking by Nov. 3 can take advantage of Sunwing’s Price Drop Guarantee promotion, where money back is guaranteed should the price of the vacation drop. Cruise packages from Toronto and Vancouver coincide...
Merit Partners With WaterAid Canada
The Merit Travel Group is continuing its support of WaterAid Canada and their efforts to bring clean water to select communities lacking access. The second annual campaign is aimed at raising awareness in support of their project in Tanzania. Through a three-month fundraising initiative, which commences this month, the goal is to help improve water and sanitation at health clinics in this East African country. The decision to support the Tanzania: Deliver Life Program follows a successful 2016 effort, which saw more than $100,000 raised for Ethiopia’s Clean Water for Schools...
ACV, Sandals Winners Named
Earlier this year, Air Canada Vacations (ACV) and Sandals and Beaches Resorts gave travel agents the opportunity to win their very own Sandals or Beaches getaway – and the winners have been announced. The draw for four pairs of tickets is now complete, and the winners are Rosie DiMartino from Polo Travel Ltd. in Concord, Ont.; France Benard from CAA Travel in Quebec, Que.; Rosanne Sevilla from WD World Travel in Vancouver; and Marcy Kenny from Executive Travel in St. John’s, Nfld. Their prizes include a four-night Air, Hotel & Transfer package for two to any Sandals or...