Author: Torry K.

American Cruise Lines (ACL) is set to navigate the Great Lakes for the first time in 2024, introducing three all-domestic itineraries featuring exclusive U.S. port calls. This marks a significant milestone, as it will be the first time in decades that American-flagged vessels solely offer U.S. itineraries in the Great Lakes region. Utilizing the newly commissioned American Patriot, which entered service in June, ACL will conduct these scenic cruises between May and August. The popularity of U.S.-based travel experiences has prompted this move, allowing American travelers to explore iconic waterways without the hassle of international travel. Great Lakes Itineraries: Explore…

Don’t Miss Today’s Experience Kissimmee Webinar for Travel Advisors TORONTO — Travel advisors still have an opportunity to register for the Experience Kissimmee webinar scheduled for today at 2 p.m. EDT, October 2. This informative session is designed to equip travel professionals with the tools they need to inspire clients to explore all that Kissimmee has to offer, from luxurious escapes to world-famous attractions. Immerse Yourself in the Kissimmee Experience Kissimmee, known for its captivating blend of luxury, nature, and shopping, is the perfect destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience in Florida. The webinar will showcase various offerings, including…

Aseniwuche Winewak Nation drummers at Indigenous opening ceremony CREDIT Destination Canada In a remarkable display of resilience, Jasper has welcomed back visitors to the GoMedia Canada Summit just a year after a devastating wildfire forced the evacuation of 25,000 residents and tourists, causing an estimated $1.3 billion in damages. The summit brought together 206 participants from various countries at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, showcasing the region’s recovery and tourism potential. This year’s summit included 79 partners from across Canada and 79 journalists from key markets such as Australia, China, France, Germany, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, United Kingdom, and the…

Hola Sun Holidays Offers Exclusive FAM Trip to Cuba Hola Sun Holidays is excited to announce a unique opportunity for TICO-certified travel agents to explore the vibrant island of Cuba through a fully immersive Familiarization (FAM) trip. Priced at just $499 per agent (credit card payment only, no loyalty points accepted), this exclusive journey promises a comprehensive experience of Cuba’s rich attractions, stunning landscapes, and diverse accommodations. Itinerary Details The FAM trip features an engaging 7-night itinerary, designed with the travel professional in mind. Highlights include: Pinar del Rio (2 nights): Dive into the incredible ecosystems and jaw-dropping landscapes of…

Ask any safari lodge what keeps guests returning, and the answer often goes beyond the allure of new wellness retreats or bucket-list activities. According to Jim Holden of Holden Safaris, it is often the trusted recommendations of advisors that spark interest in fresh experiences. However, repeat visitors typically gravitate toward lodges where they experienced authentic moments on their previous stays. Familiarity is a significant draw. "On safari, guests frequently request the same guide, appreciate seeing the same team, and want to follow up on the ongoing story of the bush," explains Suzanne Bayly from Classic Portfolio. For many returning travelers,…

China’s tourism sector is witnessing a significant revival, attributed primarily to the recent relaxation of its visa policies. In December 2023, China took a pivotal step by allowing citizens from the U.S. and 54 other nations to enjoy visa-free visits for up to 10 days. This groundbreaking move marks a departure from the stringent visa requirements that travelers have faced in the past. The revamped visa policy is part of a broader strategy aimed at boosting international tourism, with certain countries permitted up to 30 days of visa-free travel. For U.S. visitors, a transit visa is required, stipulating an onward…

St. Maarten is experiencing a notable surge in tourism, with data from the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau indicating a 16.9% increase in airport arrivals and a 14% rise in cruise ship visitors during the second quarter of 2025, compared to the same timeframe last year. This positive trend has continued into the summer months, bolstering expectations for further growth as new airlift options and hotel projects become available over the next two years. Travelers can anticipate expanded flight options as Z Air has introduced service from Curacao to Princess Juliana Airport. Additionally, several airlines are set to enhance air service…

Florence-based [Starhotels](https://Florence-based Starhotels is set to unveil the elegant Teatro Luxury Apartments Firenze – Starhotels Collezione on October 1. This exciting new addition to the city’s accommodation options features 156 apartment-style residences designed for both short and long stays, catering to a wide range of guests. Prime Location Situated on Via Magenta, the Teatro Luxury Apartments are positioned just moments away from Santa Maria Novella and the picturesque Lungarni, Florence’s scenic riverfront promenades along the Arno River. This prime location offers guests easy access to iconic landmarks and the rich cultural heritage Florence is renowned for. Historical Charm Meets Modern…

Brazil’s Gol Airlines Terminates Merger Talks with Azul Gol, the Brazilian airline affiliated with Abra Group, has officially halted its merger negotiations with Azul, another significant player in the Brazilian aviation market. In January, the two carriers had signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at merging their operations, but recent developments have led to the disbandment of these talks. Context on Gol’s Financial Struggles Gol faced a challenging financial landscape and declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in January 2024. However, the airline successfully exited bankruptcy in June of the same year, marking a significant turnaround for the struggling carrier. In a…

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has officially established a new policy that will limit the number of arriving and departing flights at Newark Liberty International Airport to a maximum of 72 movements per hour, a change that will remain in effect until October 2026. This final order develops from a preliminary proposal released in August and provides a slight increase from the previous cap of 68 movements per hour. Previously, the cap of 68 was scheduled to expire in June 2026, necessitating adjustments to accommodate evolving air traffic demands. • Related: United celebrates an operational turnaround at its Newark hub…