Author: Nova Ray

For cruise enthusiasts eager to explore the lesser-known gems of Europe, the ‘Enchantment of Eastern Europe’ itinerary aboard the Emerald Sky from Emerald Cruises offers a unique adventure. This eight-night journey transports travelers through vibrant cities and picturesque landscapes, starting in Rousse and Vidin, Bulgaria, and winding its way to Donji Milanovac and Belgrade in Serbia, then onto Vukovar, Croatia, and Kalocsa, Hungary. The experience kicks off with a one-night hotel stay in Bucharest, Romania, followed by a seven-night cruise that embarks from Giurgiu, just a 90-minute coach ride from Bucharest, ultimately culminating in Budapest, Hungary. Passengers navigate the diverse…

Air Canada has announced an extension of its suspension of flights to Israel, now set to last until September 8, 2025, marking a significant delay from the airline’s original resumption date of June 8, 2025. This decision has been driven by ongoing geopolitical uncertainty in the region, as noted in the airline’s official statement on its website. The airline emphasized its commitment to the Canada-Israel route, expressing hope to restore services as soon as conditions allow. Background on Flight Suspensions Initially, Air Canada’s service was slated to resume with four weekly flights from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Tel…

Entertaining and informative tour guide Diana Corby, left, with Open Jaw’s Martha Chapman European river cruising continues to gain popularity, particularly with the launch of Avalon Waterway’s innovative Bonjour Bordeaux: Chateaux, Wineries, and Charming Villages itinerary. This new offering promises an engaging and immersive experience for travelers seeking adventure and cultural enrichment. The Avalon Artistry II, recently refurbished and accommodating 128 passengers, serves as a luxurious home for an eight-day journey through Bordeaux. This itinerary showcases the region’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and, of course, its renowned wine. The inaugural cruise featured a diverse group of guests, including travel advisors,…

LONDON — The robust growth of Canada’s travel and tourism sector is projected to yield a remarkable economic contribution of nearly $183 billion by 2025, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) in its recently published Economic Impact Research (EIR). This milestone underscores the sector’s integral role in Canada’s overall economy. Jobs Growth in Travel and Tourism The same forecast indicates that this vibrant sector will support approximately 1.8 million jobs by 2025. The WTTC describes this figure as a significant achievement, highlighting travel and tourism’s impact on the Canadian labor market and emphasizing the ongoing strength of…

The union representing approximately 10,000 flight attendants at Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge has recently initiated conciliation proceedings with Canada’s federal minister of labour. This move comes in response to ongoing challenges in contract negotiations, which have reached a standstill. Wesley Lesosky, President of CUPE’s Airline Division, stated, “We’ve made fair, reasonable, and long-overdue proposals, but the company appears to be dragging its feet and not taking the process seriously.” The union’s actions highlight the urgency of addressing the concerns and expectations of their members amidst rising costs and demanding workloads. Conciliation Process Explained Upon appointment, a federal conciliation…

Celebrity Cruises has made a significant announcement affecting several upcoming sailings, specifically regarding planned visits to Labadee, Haiti. From April 2025 to April 2026, select itineraries on the Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Beyond will have their stops at this popular port canceled due to safety concerns. This decision impacts at least ten different cruise itineraries, showcasing the cruise line’s commitment to prioritizing guest safety and well-being. Changes to Itineraries Guests originally scheduled to visit Labadee will instead have an alternative stop at either Grand Turk or George Town, Grand Cayman. These adjustments reflect Celebrity Cruises’ ongoing efforts to ensure a…

Last night, Toronto was aglow with the vibrant atmosphere of a rooftop gathering hosted by Intrepid Travel, showcasing the company’s optimistic perspective on the flourishing Canadian market. Intrepid’s Canadian operations experienced a remarkable 50% year-over-year growth, marking a significant achievement from an already strong foundation. Christian Wolters, President and General Manager of Canada, expressed this sentiment during a discussion with Travelweek, highlighting that there has been an increase in both outbound bookings from Canada and a 37% rise in bookings for domestic travel. Diving into regional specifics, bookings from Canadians to Eastern Canada witnessed a staggering 152% surge during a…

Airlines globally are on the verge of revolutionizing luggage handling with a significant transition from traditional baggage tags. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has unveiled a comprehensive 10-year Global Baggage Roadmap at the IATA Ground Handling Conference in Nairobi, driven by a collaboration between airlines, airports, and other industry partners. This ambitious plan aims to digitize luggage management by introducing digital bag tags, enabling real-time tracking capabilities, and enhancing automation processes. The primary goal of this endeavor is to reduce the rate of lost luggage and provide travelers with a more efficient and smooth airport experience. Monika Mejstrikova, IATA’s…

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has officially announced a significant change to the itinerary for its upcoming Norwegian Aqua cruise. The voyage, originally scheduled to conclude in Boston, will now dock in New York City. This modification comes alongside a revised arrival date, which has been postponed by three days to April 7, 2025. In a statement released by NCL, the cruise line emphasized its ongoing commitment to passenger and crew safety. “While we always strive to maintain our original schedule, the safety of our guests and crew remains our top priority,” stated the company. The decision to alter the scheduled…

Two house music legends, one unforgettable night—this is Cuba’s coolest summer throwback. Get ready for the ultimate throwback celebration as Cayo Santa María prepares to host “Viaje a los 90,” the most anticipated cultural event of the Cuban summer season. On August 8-9, house music icons Robin S and Crystal Waters will transform The One Gallery’s exclusive beachfront venue into an unforgettable fusion of nostalgic beats and tropical luxury. This isn’t just another party—it’s a premium entertainment experience where classic dance anthems meet Caribbean sophistication. A Legendary Lineup Meets Paradise “Viaje a los 90” brings together two powerhouses of house…