Author: Torry K.

On Oct. 28, Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica, causing extensive damage and prompting urgency amongst travel advisors and businesses. Addison Jaynes, the founder and CEO of Reliant Destinations, monitored the situation closely from his office in Montego Bay, where he witnessed alarming events before the livestream abruptly cut out. As the Category 5 hurricane approached, Jaynes feared for the safety of his employees, a concern that persisted for almost three days until he could establish contact with them. The aftermath of Hurricane Melissa was devastating. The hotel industry faced significant setbacks, with major properties forced to close their doors…

National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions Expands European River Cruise Offerings in 2027 In a significant move for adventure travel enthusiasts, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is set to enhance its European river cruise offerings by adding a second ship in 2027. Known for their immersive and expedition-style cruises, the brand will begin introducing river cruises in Europe next year, chartering the Transcend Connect from Transcend Cruises. This initial venture into European waters comes amid a growing demand for unique travel experiences. New River Ship: The Transcend Evolve Due to the overwhelming interest in their river cruise offerings, National Geographic-Lindblad has announced that they will…

The recent launch of Epic Universe in Orlando has significantly boosted revenue for Universal theme parks in Q3, contributing to a remarkable financial performance. Universal’s theme park revenue surged by 18.7% in the third quarter, amounting to a staggering $2.72 billion, as reported by parent company Comcast. Additionally, adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) climbed 13.1%, reaching $958 million. This impressive growth corresponds with the full operational debut of Epic Universe, which opened its doors in May. Boosting Attendance and Per-Capita Spending CFO Jason Armstrong highlighted that Epic Universe is instrumental in driving higher per-capita spending and…

Concerns Emerge Over Possible Air Transat Pilot Strike Air Transat pilots, numbering around 700 and represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), are considering a strike authorization as contract negotiations stall, potentially marking the first strike in the airline’s 38-year history. The deadline for a final contract is set for December 10, 2023, or the pilots will proceed with a vote. Prolonged Negotiations and Pilot Discontent The current situation arises from protracted negotiations that began earlier this year. In January, pilots filed a notice to bargain, bringing forth a range of grievances. ALPA has characterized management’s responses as…

On September 7, 2023, TravelBrands successfully hosted its 8th Annual Charity Golf Classic at the Eagles Nest Golf Club. This much-anticipated event brought together 144 industry partners, showcasing a collaborative effort that culminated in an impressive CAD $296,646 raised to benefit the Labatt Family Heart Centre at The Hospital for Sick Children. Event Highlights and Participation According to TravelBrands, the Annual Charity Golf Classic is a cornerstone of their commitment to charitable giving, with this year’s gathering being particularly memorable. Participants enjoyed a festive evening complete with dinner, exciting silent and live auctions, and an inspiring address from Brianna Buckle,…

The recent announcement of The World’s 50 Best Hotels list has generated both excitement and scrutiny within the luxury travel community. As industry insiders and seasoned travelers review this selection, personal experiences and preferences shape opinions on the hotels included. An Overview of the 2025 Selection The 2025 list is notable for its impressive lineup of hotels that epitomize excellence in design, service, and overall luxury. Among the distinguished properties is Rosewood Hong Kong, which took the top spot, celebrated for its sophisticated offerings and stunning urban views. However, this year’s selection also raises questions about representation and inclusivity in…

Chiang Mai: A Cultural and Adventurous Gem in Northern Thailand Chiang Mai stands out as a premier destination in northern Thailand, attracting travelers looking for a harmonious blend of culture, adventure, delectable cuisine, and a laid-back urban atmosphere—all at a wallet-friendly price. Historically the capital of the ancient Lanna Kingdom, Chiang Mai exudes timeless charm. It offers a calm respite from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, yet is brimming with activities to discover. For newcomers, the Old City is a focal point, surrounded by a moat and remnants of historic city walls. Visitors can spend hours wandering through quaint…

Amanda Tessoff, a travel advisor based in Highland, Mich., and affiliated with Pixie and Pirate Destinations, is well-versed in both Caribbean travel and hurricane experiences. Last year, she found herself at Sandals Montego Bay when Hurricane Beryl made landfall over the Fourth of July weekend. Though the storm caused some minor disruptions, Tessoff described the experience as manageable. In October, Tessoff returned to Jamaica, this time to celebrate her fiancé Jorge Muniz’s milestone birthday at the Sandals South Coast. Their trip began on October 23, with plans for a week-long stay alongside family members. As concern about Tropical Storm Melissa…

Exploring the Enchanting Highlands of Scotland The Highlands of Scotland, a landscape draped in mist and adorned with vibrant autumnal hues, evokes a sense of familiarity for many visitors. Remarkably, this picturesque region was once part of the ancient Appalachian mountain chain, connecting two distant lands across hundreds of millions of years. As you traverse the serpentine backroads and gaze upon the foothills, the sight of rolling hills and charming farmlands brings back memories of childhood landscapes. Luxury Gold’s Spectacular Scotland Itinerary Venturing through the Highlands can be an unforgettable experience, especially through curated tours like Luxury Gold. Their upcoming…

As the government shutdown extends into a second month, significant disruptions within the travel industry are becoming increasingly evident. Travel Sector Faces Growing Concerns Amid Shutdown In a statement on October 27, Erik Hansen, senior vice president of government relations for the U.S. Travel Association, underscored the substantial impact the shutdown is having on travel. “The effects are becoming palpable,” he noted. “We are witnessing declines in business travel and worrying trends in international travel, particularly from Canada.” As uncertainty escalates, anxiety levels among industry stakeholders are also rising. Air Traffic Controllers Raise Safety Concerns With air traffic controllers facing…