Author: Nova Ray

Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas has once again had to bypass its scheduled stop in San Juan, Puerto Rico, due to ongoing challenges at Pier 3. This pier is the sole berth capable of accommodating Oasis-class vessels, and its persistent issues have significantly disrupted cruise itineraries in the region. Impact on Cruise Itineraries Since the problems at Pier 3 began, multiple cruises have been forced to adjust their plans. These disruptions not only affect the cruise lines but also the local economy dependent on tourism. San Juan has been a popular port of call for cruise ships, welcoming thousands…

ICA, Peru — For those seeking a destination rich in adventure and cultural experiences, Peru stands out as an inspiring choice. With the recent launch of direct flights from Toronto and Montreal to Lima by Air Canada, Canadian travelers are increasingly eager to dive into this enchanting land filled with stunning landscapes and unique opportunities for exploration. Peru is quickly becoming a must-visit location for adventurous souls and travel advisors alike. The country’s reputation for authenticity and exhilarating experiences is only intensified by organized tours that delve deeper into its hidden gems. Recent travels have spotlighted the breathtaking coastlines of…

Princess Cruises is excited to announce a special 60th Anniversary sailing featuring legendary Motown group The Temptations. This remarkable 14-day cruise, set to depart on December 6, 2025, from the vibrant city of Los Angeles, promises an unforgettable experience filled with entertainment and stunning destinations. Experience The Temptations Live at Sea As part of this milestone celebration, guests will enjoy live performances by The Temptations, renowned for hits like "My Girl" and "Ain’t Too Proud to Beg." This unique opportunity to see the iconic group in an intimate cruise setting makes this sailing a must for music lovers and fans…

Air Canada is poised to enhance its presence at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) with the introduction of four new U.S. routes, set to commence in spring 2026. These routes will connect travelers to key cities including New York-LaGuardia, Chicago-O’Hare, Boston, and Washington D.C. Despite a recent downturn in the transborder market, Air Canada views these destinations as vital, especially within the lucrative corporate sector. Notably, two of these routes already cater to travelers through Porter Airlines, linking to different airports (EWR and MDW). The Competitive Landscape: Air Canada vs. Porter Airlines The rivalry between Air Canada and Porter…

Riyadh Air is setting a new benchmark in the aviation industry with its lavish business class offerings, which blur the lines between business and first class. Travelers looking for an elevated flying experience will find themselves immersed in luxurious amenities designed for comfort and sophistication. Unmatched Luxury: Business Class Features Passengers in Riyadh Air’s business class will be greeted by gold-veined stone tables, a luxurious touch that enhances the aesthetic appeal of the seating area. Accompanying these tables are stitched-leather seats that transform into lie-flat beds, allowing for a restful journey whether it’s for business or leisure. Superior Comfort and…

Dining experiences on cruise ships are entering a new chapter as Forbes Travel Guide (FTG) prepares to debut ratings for cruise ship restaurants. This marks the first time the esteemed guide will extend its evaluation criteria to culinary offerings at sea. Announcement of 2025 Cruise Ship Ratings On February 12, 2025, FTG will unveil its annual Star Ratings, which encompass hotels, restaurants, and spas in over 85 countries. Cruise lines such as Celebrity Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Seabourn Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea Cruises, and Viking are among the cruise lines eligible for these prestigious ratings.…

Yesterday, Air Canada hosted a vibrant check-in event at both Montréal Trudeau and Toronto Pearson airports, welcoming nearly 400 travel advisors for the highly anticipated Air Canada Vacations (ACV) Mega Fam to Cancun. The ACV team radiated excitement as they greeted attendees with enthusiasm and provided exclusive welcome gifts, setting a festive tone for the occasion. Among the participants, the team from Voyages Aquamonde in Sainte-Catherine, QC, showed their creativity by sporting custom t-shirts. “ACV trips are always so enjoyable and well-organized,” expressed Karina Chabot from Voyages Aquamonde. Similarly, Karine Laplante of Voyages Simon Pelletier shared her eagerness for the…

European airlines are confronting significant economic hurdles as a wave of uncertainty looms over the travel industry in 2025. Recent data indicates a worrying decline in bookings for both leisure travel within Europe and transatlantic trips to the United States. This downturn raises concerns about potential impacts on airline revenues and the broader economic landscape. Economic Uncertainty and Its Impact on Airline Demand As inflationary pressures mount across the continent, consumer confidence and discretionary spending have begun to stall. This shift is compounded by geopolitical tensions and fluctuating energy prices, which have further eroded traveler enthusiasm. Airlines that once thrived…

Rendering of the Captain Arctic (Photo: Selar) A recent keel-laying ceremony in Dubai marks a significant milestone for eco-conscious cruising with the unveiling of the Captain Arctic—a cutting-edge polar expedition vessel commissioned by the French company Selar. This pioneering ship is poised to redefine luxury expedition travel by integrating advanced sustainable technologies. Revolutionizing Luxury Expeditions: The Captain Arctic The Captain Arctic stands out as the first luxury expedition vessel explicitly designed to function predominantly on renewable energy sources. Spanning 70 meters, this innovative ship will employ wind sails paired with solar panels, thus enabling it to draw 90% of its…

TORONTO — The anticipation surrounding the Scenic Ikon is palpable, with the inaugural sailings already sold out and 20% of the ship’s initial capacity booked, despite the cruise’s departure date being set for April 2028. This high demand showcases a promising future for Scenic Group’s latest venture. At a recent preview event held at The Globe and Mail Centre in downtown Toronto, Scenic Group’s founder and chairman, Glen Moroney, emphasized the importance of early bookings. “We hope to welcome your guests in 2028. I would suggest they book early,” he advised travel advisors and trade media attendees. Moroney elaborated on…