Author: Nova Ray

Strike action could significantly impact Scotland’s two largest airports as a dispute over pay escalates. According to the union Unite, ground services staff working for Menzies Aviation at both Edinburgh and Glasgow airports have overwhelmingly rejected the company’s latest pay proposals, deeming them "unacceptable." Background of the Dispute As the summer holidays approach, tensions rise within the aviation sector. The ongoing dispute centers around compensation for ground services crew, a crucial workforce for airport operations. Menzies Aviation has submitted separate pay offers to its employees; however, these proposals have not met the team’s expectations, prompting union leaders to warn of…

Carnival Splendor recently made headlines after a remarkable rescue operation in the waters en route to New Caledonia. Responding to an emergency call, the cruise ship came to the aid of two Australian travel bloggers alongside their four-legged companions, which included two French bulldogs and a miniature husky. This heartwarming incident underscores the importance of maritime safety and the compassionate efforts of those in the cruise industry. Details of the Rescue On a routine voyage, Carnival Splendor was alerted to a distress signal from a disabled catamaran. The crew promptly acted, showcasing the cruise line’s commitment to safety and assistance…

WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech recently addressed the importance of accessible air travel in Canada during a talk in Calgary. Emphasizing the vastness of the country, he argued that air travel should not be viewed as a luxury. Unlike other forms of transportation such as bridges, trains, and ferries, the aviation sector receives minimal federal support, despite its critical role in promoting national unity. In his speech, von Hoensbroech articulated the necessity of developing a robust aviation infrastructure. “We need to build Canada – now even more than in the past – and aviation plays a key role,” he stated,…

Celebrity Cruises is set to make a significant entry into the river cruise market, with plans to unveil all-inclusive itineraries on the renowned Rhine and Danube rivers starting in 2027. This announcement comes from Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises, who presented the news during the company’s 2025 President’s Cruise aboard the Celebrity Apex. All-Inclusive River Cruises According to Hodges Bethge, the company’s river cruises are designed to be fully inclusive, covering essential amenities such as drinks, Wi-Fi, and one shore excursion per port of call. “The intention is that our river cruises will be all-inclusive," said Hodges Bethge.…

Southwest Airlines has officially ended its nearly 50-year-long "Bags Fly Free" policy, a significant shift that aligns the airline with the growing trend of U.S. carriers profiting from baggage fees. This decision comes as airlines across the country capitalize on increasing revenue from checked baggage, with U.S. airlines generating a staggering $7.27 billion in checked baggage fees last year alone, according to recent federal data. The Impact of Ending "Bags Fly Free" The termination of Southwest’s free baggage policy marks a pivotal change for travelers who have long enjoyed the convenience of checking bags without incurring additional charges. As airlines…

The Impact of Travel Advisors on Cruise Satisfaction Recent data from the 2025 State of the Cruise Industry Report by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reveals a fascinating trend among cruise travellers. Those who book their trips through travel advisors report significantly higher satisfaction rates compared to independent bookers. Their Net Promoter Scores are categorized as “great,” an improvement over the “good” scores typically reported by travellers who do not utilize specialist guidance. Why Expert Guidance Matters While social media influencers may amass millions of views showcasing vacation spots, the research underscores the crucial role of travel advisors in…

A crowded street in Bordeaux, France. Jim Byers Photo As global tourism rebounds in 2025, several popular destinations are implementing new restrictions to manage peak-season crowds. From Mount Fuji in Japan to the canals of Venice, these measures are aiming to balance the influx of tourists with local communities’ needs and environmental sustainability. New Entry Restrictions and Fees in Japan Mount Fuji will require both domestic and international climbers to pay a ¥4,000 (C$35) fee starting July 2025. This significant change expands the fee requirement from just the Yoshida Trail to all four main trails: Yoshida, Fujinomiya, Subashiri, and Gotemba.…

Regent Seven Seas Cruises (RSSC) has recently announced an exciting new range of suite designs aboard the luxury cruise ship Seven Seas Prestige. These innovative designs include two-story Skyview Suites, the expansive Grand Loft Suites, and the opulent Horizon Penthouse Suite, all of which are characterized by their oversized balconies, providing guests with a unique and lavish experience while at sea. Exclusive Suite Options for Discerning Travelers The new suite offerings comprise six distinct accommodations located on Decks 14 and 15. Each suite is designed to provide a unique layout and character, ensuring guests find the perfect match for their…

Late last year, the city of Skagway, Alaska, made headlines by approving a significant change to its tax code. The new ordinance mandates the collection of taxes on the complete price of excursions—including any commissions—regardless of how or where the tours are booked. This change aims to create a consistent tax framework for all tours, whether they are reserved in Skagway itself, online, or through other channels. However, the decision has led to escalating tensions between the city and the cruise industry. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has responded with a legal challenge, asserting that the new tax policy…

Celebrity Cruises is set to invest over $250 million in a major modernization initiative for its Celebrity Solstice ships, with the renovations scheduled for completion by 2026. This significant upgrade will not only enhance the ships’ aesthetics but also enrich the overall passenger experience. Exciting New Experiences As part of the modernization, passengers can anticipate eight new experiences that promise to elevate their journeys. These innovations encompass a wide array of ship-wide enhancements, showcasing Celebrity Cruises’ commitment to providing memorable adventures at sea. Innovative Design Upgrades One of the key features of the renovations will be the reinvented outdoor spaces…