Author: Torry K.

Collette has officially announced that it will provide full refunds to all travelers booked for departures to Israel through the first half of 2024. This decision comes as a response to ongoing safety concerns and aims to assist both travelers and travel advisors in planning alternative arrangements. In a press release dated December 19, Collette confirmed that it will cancel all tour departures to Israel through June 30, 2024. This includes the complete cost of tours, flights, and insurance for any traveler affected during this period. Prioritizing Traveler Safety Jeff Roy, Executive Vice President at Collette, emphasized the company’s commitment…

When booking Business Class, travelers often anticipate luxurious amenities like lie-flat seats, fine dining, and premium champagne. One increasingly sought-after luxury is the provision of pajamas during the flight. Once a perk limited to First Class, an array of airlines now offers cozy sleepwear to enhance passengers’ rest at 35,000 feet. This article explores airlines providing pajamas in Business Class, detailing styles, materials, and tips for travelers looking to enjoy this added comfort. Qatar Airways Qatar Airways excels with its business class pajamas, available on most overnight routes. Collaborating with The White Company, they offer stylish two-piece sets in breathable…

Samara Karoo Reserve, a premier private game reserve nestled in South Africa’s vast Great Karoo, has unveiled an enticing all-inclusive package for the 2025-26 travel season. This offering includes complimentary domestic flights and transfers for qualifying stays, making it an exceptional opportunity for adventurous travelers. Spanning three unique accommodations, including Karoo Lodge, The Manor exclusive-use villa, and Plains Camp, Samara’s all-inclusive experience encompasses luxurious accommodation, delectable meals and beverages, and thrilling activities. Guests can enjoy twice-daily game drives, invigorating bush walks, exciting cheetah tracking, excursions to view San rock art, engaging children’s programming, and hands-on conservation initiatives, such as planting…

“It’s a blue whale, the largest animal on the planet!” exclaimed the expedition leader, igniting a wave of excitement as passengers hurried to the front of the ship hoping to witness a majestic spout. After the initial sighting, the captain turned the ship back for a second look as the whale gracefully surfaced multiple times before vanishing beneath the waves of the Bolivar Channel in the Galapagos Islands. While travelers to the Galapagos can anticipate encounters with myriad wildlife—such as giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and numerous endemic birds—the blue whale sighting was a thrilling bonus, reflected in the excited chatter…

Rossi Ralenkotter, a pioneering figure in destination marketing, passed away on October 10 after a courageous 16-year battle with colon cancer. In reflecting on his journey with the illness, Ralenkotter likened it to baseball, stating, “I took it as a challenge: I’ll still get up every morning, and I’m going to get my four at bats.” This approach mirrored his innovative mindset during his tenure at the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), where he left an indelible mark on the travel industry. The “What Happens Here, Stays Here” Campaign In 2003, while serving as the CEO of LVCVA,…

G Adventures is preparing to conclude its impactful educational travel program for 2025, which has welcomed over 150 Canadian travel advisors across six continents. This initiative, comprising well-curated familiarization (FAM) trips, has provided agents with opportunities to explore iconic locations such as Japan, Peru, Greece, Morocco, New Zealand, Jordan, South Africa, the Galapagos Islands, Costa Rica, and Thailand. This program will officially close in December, marking a successful year of engagement and education. Transformative Travel Experiences The FAM trips are meticulously crafted to immerse Canadian travel agents in G Adventures’ mission of community tourism and ethical travel. David Green, VP…

Air Canada Vacations (ACV) has officially reinstated its popular Disney Vacation packages, making them available for booking and immediate travel. This announcement allows travelers to embark on a magical adventure at the most enchanting destinations, including Florida, California, and Hawaii, with a diverse selection of 29 resorts to choose from. The Disney packages offered by ACV encompass a complete travel experience, featuring flights, accommodations, and theme park tickets. Prices for these unforgettable trips start at CAD $1,179 per person, specifically for Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort in Orlando, a prime location for those looking to immerse themselves in Disney fun. Nino…

CroisiEurope Announces New Paddlewheel Cruises on the Seine River Next year, CroisiEurope will introduce an exciting new adventure for cruise enthusiasts: paddlewheel cruises on the Seine River aboard the R.E. Waydelich L.J., an elegant 81-passenger vessel already recognized for its journeys along the Rhine. This innovative offering promises to immerse travelers in the stunning scenery and rich history of the Seine region. Discover the “Little Gems of the Seine” Cruise The “Little Gems of the Seine” cruise features a captivating five-night roundtrip journey departing from the romantic city of Paris. Passengers will explore charming locations such as Melun, Saint Mammes,…

Rossi Ralenkotter, a pioneering figure in destination marketing and a 45-year veteran of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), passed away on October 10th after a lengthy battle with colon cancer. He was 78 years old. During his tenure, Ralenkotter played a crucial role in achieving record visitation figures for Las Vegas, reaching 42.9 million in 2016. His innovative approach to destination marketing transformed how cities attract tourists. Originally from Covington, Kentucky, Ralenkotter earned his marketing degree from Arizona State University and an MBA from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He joined what was then known as…

Royal Caribbean is set to launch an exciting range of summer getaways to Alaska for 2027, inviting thrill-seekers to explore the breathtaking beauty of The Last Frontier. Vacationers can embark on weeklong voyages aboard the innovative Anthem, Quantum, Serenade, and Voyager of the Seas. With itineraries departing from key ports such as Seattle, Seward, Alaska, and Vancouver, British Columbia, these trips promise a blend of adventure on land and sea. Booking Details The highly anticipated 2027 Alaska vacations are now available for reservation through Royal Caribbean’s website, with priority access for Crown & Anchor Society loyalty members. General bookings will…