Author: Torry K.

The Douro Valley is undoubtedly the crown jewel of any Douro River cruise, yet a visit to Salamanca, Spain, is an exceptional experience that travelers should not miss if the opportunity arises. Situated just a short drive from the river, this historic city offers a rich tapestry of culture and history. Salamanca, often referred to as the Golden City due to its stunning sandstone architecture, is a destination that captivates visitors. The city is particularly famous for the University of Salamanca, one of the oldest universities in Europe, established in the early 13th century. For those cruising the Douro, an…

The U.S. Travel Association has announced a projected decline of 6.3% in international travel to the U.S. for 2025, marking the first decrease since 2020. This downturn poses a significant threat, jeopardizing billions in economic expenditure and thousands of jobs. The advocacy group is urging government intervention to reverse this worrying trend. Projected Decline in International Visitors According to U.S. Travel, the anticipated drop will see international visitor counts decrease from 72.4 million in 2024 to 67.9 million in 2025, with a notable reduction in visits from Canada being a primary contributor to this decline. Meanwhile, visitation from other countries…

Exciting opportunities are ahead as VisitBritain announces a series of agent workshops across Canada this October. These workshops aim to enhance knowledge and promote travel to Britain, with sessions scheduled in key cities. Upcoming Workshop Dates Travel agents and industry professionals are encouraged to mark their calendars for the following dates and locations: Calgary: October 15 Edmonton: October 16 Mississauga: October 29 These workshops will delve into various aspects of travel to Britain, offering agents the chance to expand their offerings and provide clients with unique experiences. Key Partners Involved This initiative features collaboration with prominent partners, including VisitWales and…

As G Adventures celebrates its 35th anniversary, it recently hosted the third annual GX event, highlighting the beauty and tourism potential of Jordan. Founder Bruce Poon Tip emphasized the country’s significance, stating, “The hero this week is Jordan,” amid concerns over a decline in tourism due to regional instability. Jordan, home to renowned landmarks such as Petra, the Dead Sea, and the stunning landscapes of Wadi Rum, is facing significant challenges in attracting visitors. During the GX launch on September 23, Poon Tip reflected on a previous trip to the country, noting its captivating beauty and the urgent need for…

WestJet Vacations has officially launched its Travel Advisor Facebook community, an initiative aimed at keeping travel advisors and partners informed about all aspects of WestJet Vacations. This new platform will serve as a dynamic channel for sharing essential updates, announcements, and the latest news related to the operator’s offerings. Starting from March 14, travel advisors can join the Facebook group to stay connected with WestJet’s latest developments. This community will be integral in ensuring that travel advisors have easy access to the information they need to enhance their services and client experiences. By participating in this group, advisors can collaborate,…

Sonesta International Hotels Corp. has officially launched its latest vessel, the Sonesta Dahabeya Amirat II, enhancing its fleet of Nile cruises. This new ship marks the seventh addition to the brand’s line-up, designed to provide an intimate and luxurious experience for guests. Overview of the Sonesta Dahabeya Amirat II The Sonesta Dahabeya Amirat II can accommodate up to 18 passengers, featuring five elegantly designed cabins and four spacious suites. With a focus on comfort and exclusivity, this ship is perfect for travelers seeking a unique way to explore the Nile. Itinerary Highlights The Sonesta Dahabeya Amirat II offers cruises between…

Experience Culinary Excellence at Janu in Azabudai Hills Whether battling jet lag or just starting your evening, indulging in a Janu gin and tonic is the perfect way to kick off your dining experience. Nestled in the heart of the upscale Azabudai Hills neighborhood, Janu offers a vibrant atmosphere that distinguishes it as a sister brand to the luxurious Aman hotels. Community-Centric Vibes at Janu Opened in the last year, Janu integrates seamlessly with its community, as affirmed by former Aman chief commercial officer Anna Nash. The hotel features an accessible lobby and restaurants, allowing easy entry from the adjacent…

Nobu Hospitality has officially opened reservations for its highly anticipated Nobu Hotel & Restaurant Roma, which will welcome guests starting November 7. Located on Via Veneto in the heart of Rome, this new establishment takes over the site of the former Grand Hotel Via Veneto. Nobu Hotel Overview The Nobu Hotel & Restaurant Roma features an impressive total of 117 luxurious guestrooms and suites, which includes a lavish three-bedroom Nobu Villa. This new addition signifies Nobu’s first venture into Italy, expanding its brand presence in Europe, where it already boasts six other locations. Culinary Experience Central to the Nobu experience…

Travelers to the Galapagos Islands may soon discover that some beloved food items, such as fresh dairy, specific meats, and many fruits and vegetables, cannot be brought from mainland Ecuador. Rather than seeing this as a limitation, local chefs like Puente embrace these restrictions as a source of inspiration, urging them to innovate and create a cuisine that is distinct to the Galapagos. Embracing Local Ingredients Puente highlights that the constraints of sourcing ingredients encourage culinary creativity. “These limits actually sharpen our creativity, encouraging us to think differently,” he says. Instead of replicating international dishes, chefs in the Galapagos focus…

The ongoing U.S. government shutdown has already inflicted over $1 billion in losses on the travel economy, as reported by the U.S. Travel Association. CEO Geoff Freeman emphasized that this shutdown is “doing real, irreversible damage.” Travelers across the nation are experiencing significantly longer lines at TSA checkpoints and facing numerous flight delays. The situation has escalated to the point where airports are reducing flights, and some control towers have completely ceased operations. Freeman warns, “The longer this drags on, the worse the cascade of damage will be—for local communities, for small businesses, and for the country. Congress needs to…