Author: Torry K.

REI Co-op has officially rejoined the travel sector, partnering with Intrepid Travel to provide a variety of small-group tours globally. This marks a significant development for the outdoor retailer, who had previously exited its Experiences vertical earlier this year due to financial constraints. New Travel Collections Launching in January In an exciting move, REI will unveil the REI Exclusive and REI Recommended travel collections starting January. These curated itineraries are available to everyone, regardless of co-op membership; however, members will enjoy a special 15% discount on the Exclusive collection. All trips will be carried out by Intrepid Travel, known for…

Alaska has long been regarded as a sanctuary for those looking to escape the demands of modern life. In an era characterized by an overwhelming reliance on constant connectivity, it’s no wonder that this vast wilderness has emerged as a prime destination for individuals seeking a “digital detox.” With a growing number of clients turning to travel advisors for guidance, the trend of disconnecting from technology—known as JOMO, or the joy of missing out—has never been more relevant. According to Jordan Sanford, president of Doyon Tourism, many professionals arrive in Alaska with the intention to unplug. “We see a lot…

LAS VEGAS — Travel advisors are encouraged to pivot towards offseason and winter travel while exploring lesser-known destinations, according to Ignacio Maza, a senior advisor for Signature Travel Network. Maza shared insights at Signature’s annual conference, held recently at the Venetian Resort. Promoting off-peak travel not only aligns with emerging trends but also offers a wealth of opportunities for agents. "This trend is only going to continue to grow," Maza noted, emphasizing the importance of educating oneself about available offseason products. He urged travel professionals to inform clients that popular spots such as the Amalfi Coast are accessible even in…

The Dominican Republic has long been cherished as a premier Caribbean vacation spot, especially known for its affordable all-inclusive resorts. However, the nation is currently witnessing a remarkable shift towards luxury accommodation, with an anticipated addition of nearly 15,000 new rooms over the next three years. This expansion is predominantly focused on the upscale segment, marking an approximate 18% increase in available lodging, as noted by experts in the industry. Michael Cummings, managing director of valuation and advisory services at CBRE, emphasized that "the luxury segment is continuing to increase." For instance, the emerging tourist destination of Miches, located approximately…

LOT Polish Airlines is set to launch a seasonal direct route from Warsaw to San Francisco starting May 6, 2024. This new service will operate four times a week, marking an exciting expansion for the airline. LOT Polish Airlines Expands U.S. Presence This new route to San Francisco establishes LOT Polish Airlines as a key player in the U.S. travel market, making San Francisco the sixth destination served by LOT from Warsaw. Travelers can now additionally explore vibrant cities such as Chicago O’Hare, Miami, Newark, New York JFK, and Los Angeles. Notably, LOT also operates flights from Krakow to Chicago…

American Cruise Lines Celebrates Launch of New Ship, the American Pioneer American Cruise Lines (ACL) marked a significant milestone last week with the christening of its latest vessel, the American Pioneer. This new addition is the second ship in the line’s Patriot-class, following the successful debut of the American Patriot earlier this year. The official christening took place on November 10 in scenic Key West, where the ship embarked on its inaugural sailing—a 16-day Grand Florida Coast & Keys itinerary. The American Pioneer represents the 21st vessel in ACL’s expanding fleet, which focuses on coastal cruising experiences. Photo Credit: American…

Hola Sun has introduced an exciting opportunity for TICO certified travel agents with its new mini Familiarization (FAM) trip to Cuba, scheduled for September 22-29, 2023. This exclusive trip is tailored to enhance agents’ understanding of Cuba’s vibrant culture and scenic attractions. All-Inclusive Package Details The mini FAM trip offers an all-inclusive experience, priced at CAD $499 per person, which includes: Round Trip Airfare: Departing from Toronto to Holguin. Excursions: Explore the rich cultural highlights of Holguin and Santiago de Cuba. Hotel Accommodation: Enjoy a comfortable seven-night stay. Meals and Drinks: All meals and specified drinks during the itinerary are…

Dubai offers an extraordinary blend of modern innovation and rich cultural heritage, making it an unmissable destination for travelers worldwide. With its stunning skyline, diverse attractions, and luxurious accommodations, every visitor can find something remarkable to experience. Here’s a curated list of the top things to see and do in Dubai to help you plan your unforgettable journey. 10. Stroll Through Dubai Marina Dubai Marina is a vibrant neighborhood featuring a picturesque man-made canal, where luxury yachts glide along the water, framed by towering skyscrapers. At the heart of this area is Marina Walk, ideal for leisurely walks, morning jogs,…

AmaWaterways expands its Africa land-cruise offerings with four new exciting itineraries for 2024. AmaWaterways is set to enhance its Africa river cruise product by introducing four brand new itineraries scheduled for next year. These unique travel experiences combine a Chobe River cruise aboard the Zambezi Queen with immersive land programs that include thrilling safaris. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore captivating new destinations such as Kenya, Namibia, Zanzibar, and the captivating Skeleton Coast. These journeys will vary in length from nine to 18 nights, catering to various traveler preferences. From the Cape to the Falls One of the standout…

The Trump Organization has partnered with Dar Global to develop a groundbreaking luxury project. The Trump International Hotel Maldives marks a significant milestone for the Trump Organization, as it will be their inaugural venture in the Maldives. This development is being promoted as the world’s first “tokenized” hotel project, a pioneering step in real estate innovation. The Concept of Tokenization in Real Estate Tokenization in real estate generally involves converting property ownership into digital assets on a blockchain. Traditionally, this process applies to completed properties. However, the Trump International Hotel Maldives will be tokenized during its development phase. This offers…