Author: Torry K.

LAS VEGAS — As winter travel approaches, there’s a burgeoning trend for off-the-beaten-path destinations that travel advisors should embrace. Ignacio Maza, a senior advisor at Signature Travel Network, emphasizes the importance of educating travelers about off-season opportunities. During a recent gathering at Signature’s annual conference at the Venetian Resort, Maza highlighted the growing availability of travel products during the offseason. "The trend is only going to continue to grow," he noted. With more options than ever before, advisors are encouraged to explore the rich offerings available during winter months. For instance, clients may think that visiting popular spots like the…

When the highly anticipated Universal Kids Resort opens its doors next year in Frisco, Texas, families can expect an exciting array of attractions designed to engage and entertain visitors of all ages. The resort will feature a thrilling family coaster, various water attractions, vibrant dance parties, and serene sensory gardens for relaxation. Universal Destinations & Experiences unveiled extensive details about the resort’s seven themed lands, each inspired by beloved characters and stories. These include: Shrek’s Swamp Jurassic World Adventure Camp SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club TrollsFest Puss in Boots Del Mar The Isle of Curiosity…

Scenic founder Glen Moroney Scenic has announced that the first two sailings of the highly anticipated Scenic Icon are already sold out, with limited availability remaining for the third voyage. Scheduled to launch in April **2028**, this ship is tapping into a robust demand for luxury cruising, showing clear enthusiasm for Scenic’s offerings among its clientele. As a leader in premium river and ocean cruising, Scenic is expanding its fleet with the Scenic Icon, which is engineered for both Mediterranean warmth and the icy appeal of Antarctic waters. During a recent presentation in Toronto, attended by approximately 100 media and…

The Egyptian government has recently announced changes to its visa requirements for Canadian citizens, prompting a response from travel operator G Adventures. As of October 1st, 2023, Canadians planning to visit Egypt will need to secure a visa from either the Egyptian embassy or consulate located in Ottawa or Montreal. This update comes in the wake of a current option for an e-visa available through September 2023. According to G Adventures, they are actively seeking confirmation from Egyptian authorities regarding these new entry requirements. They have already informed travelers departing in September that an e-visa will be necessary for entry…

Emirates has made a significant move in its fleet expansion by placing an order for 65 additional Boeing 777-9 widebody aircraft. This announcement came on the first day of the Dubai Air Show, underscoring the airline’s commitment to enhancing its operations and passenger offerings. This latest order brings Emirates’ total to 270 Boeing 777-9 aircraft scheduled for delivery through 2038. The impressive order highlights Emirates’ strategy to modernize its fleet with the newest technology. The Boeing 777-9 is designed to be a game-changer in the aviation sector, boasting enhancements in width, length, range, and efficiency compared to older aircraft models.…

FORT LAUDERDALE — Jamaica is poised for a remarkable recovery following Hurricane Melissa, with plans to enhance its tourism offerings significantly. Adam Stewart, executive chairman of Sandals Resorts International, addressed a gathering of travel advisors at CruiseWorld, emphasizing the island’s resilience. Three of the Sandals resorts most impacted by Hurricane Melissa — Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Royal Caribbean, and Sandals South Coast — are set to reopen their doors on May 30. Stewart announced that these resorts would emerge “completely transformed to the next level.” Meanwhile, five other resorts less affected by the storm are slated to reopen on December…

Nicole Perez, Director of Sales at Princess Hotels and Resorts, underscored the significance of the recent Granite Travel Trade Expos in Canada for the travel industry. “Granite Travel Trade Expos remain a cornerstone of our Canadian Travel Trade sales strategy. These events present invaluable opportunities to connect with travel agents nationwide, particularly in promising secondary markets crucial to our growth,” she stated. The response from agents at these events has been overwhelmingly positive. Sonya Thomas, a travel concierge at Journeys by Elizabeth, expressed gratitude for the access these Expos provide. “We’re incredibly thankful that suppliers make the effort to meet…

Data from Statistics Canada reveals a significant shift in travel preferences among Canadians, with a pronounced inclination toward domestic travel over visits to the United States. The trend is gaining momentum, evident from the September air travel statistics. Domestic Travel on the Rise In September, Canadian airports reported screening 2.5 million domestic passengers, marking a 10.2% increase compared to the same month in 2024. Leading this upward trend was Toronto Pearson International Airport, which experienced a noteworthy 15.2% year-over-year surge in domestic passenger volumes. Decline in US Travel Conversely, transborder air travel to the United States showed a worrying decline,…

On September 7, 2023, Intrepid Travel announced an exciting new collaboration with travel multimedia company Atlas Obscura to create Atlas Obscura Adventures. This innovative partnership aims to introduce small-group tours that enhance the travel experience by focusing on unique and immersive itineraries. A New Era of Travel Experiences Atlas Obscura Adventures marks a significant expansion of Atlas Obscura’s previous excursions, promising to offer a variety of trips while simultaneously reducing operational costs. By limiting group sizes to a maximum of 12 travelers, this collaboration ensures a more intimate and authentic journey, allowing participants to explore destinations that are often inaccessible…

Luxury tour operator Abercrombie & Kent has made a significant move by launching a destination management company (DMC) in South Korea. This strategic expansion comes at a time when tourism in the country is experiencing a remarkable surge. Elevating South Korea’s Tourism Landscape Based in Seoul, Abercrombie & Kent’s new DMC aims to enhance access to South Korea for a variety of professionals in the travel industry, including tour operators, cruise lines, meeting planners, and travel advisors. The company is set to offer unique travel experiences through business-to-business (B2B) partnerships. Tailored Itineraries for Every Traveler The DMC will provide stand-alone…