Author: Torry K.

Jamaica’s Travel Advisory Status Remains Unchanged The Jamaica Tourist Board has officially confirmed that there has been no alteration to Canada’s travel advisory for Jamaica. Recent media updates were purely editorial, aimed at enhancing clarity and understanding for travelers. These updates are routine and are disseminated regularly to ensure comprehensive communication. Understanding Media Updates It’s essential to recognize that such media updates can sometimes create confusion, leading travelers to believe there have been critical changes to Jamaica’s safety status. However, these revisions are meant solely for improved readability and information dissemination. Safety and Welcome in Jamaica Jamaica continues to stand…

Collette is kicking off its Travel Advisor Appreciation Month giveaway this May, offering a fantastic opportunity for travel advisors in both Canada and the United States. Two lucky winners will each receive a $5,000 voucher that can be redeemed for any Collette tour of their choice. This initiative underscores Collette’s commitment to recognizing the hard work of travel advisors who play a crucial role in connecting travelers with their dream destinations. A Rewarding Experience for Advisors According to Jaclyn Leibl-Cote, President and CEO of Collette, “Our travel advisors work hard to not only help us reach travelers but to help…

Riviera Travel is set to launch its inaugural river cruise ship in Asia in 2027. Introducing the Riviera Alba The new vessel, named the Riviera Alba, will navigate the stunning Mekong River, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the rich cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia. With a capacity for just 50 travelers, the Riviera Alba is designed for an intimate cruising experience. Cruising the Mekong: A Unique Itinerary One of the most exciting aspects of the Riviera Alba is its inaugural 14-day cruise itinerary that starts at an appealing price of $5,049. Passengers will have the opportunity to explore iconic…

“Very vertical, very green.” Those were my first impressions as United Airlines’ inaugural flight descended toward Funchal, the capital of Madeira, in June. Madeira’s southern coastline features dramatic cliffs rising directly from the Atlantic Ocean. Photo Credit: Arnie Weissmann These defining characteristics are among the reasons why this Portuguese island attracts around 2 million visitors each year. Its cliffs dramatically rise from the sea, while a diverse array of birds from three continents has transformed the volcanic soil into a lush, green landscape. Stretching 35 miles long and 14 miles wide, Madeira is home to peaks that soar to 6,000…

Interstellar Arc, a cutting-edge virtual ship experience created by Felix & Paul Studios, is set to launch at Area15 in Las Vegas next month, promising an unparalleled blend of cinematic storytelling and advanced technology. Visitors to Interstellar Arc will embark on a thrilling journey from a spaceport located in the 25th century (2406) to the distant future of the 27th century. Upon boarding the virtual ship, participants will enter cryogenic sleep, awakening 262 years later just as they approach their extraordinary destination. Immersive Experience Like No Other “Interstellar Arc represents the next evolution of entertainment,” said Felix Lajeunesse, co-founder and…

Air Canada is expanding its transborder flight offerings for the summer of 2026, with new routes and increased capacity aimed at enhancing travel options for customers. The airline has made these flights available for booking through its website, Air Canada, its contact centers, and travel agents, providing more convenience for travelers. New Transborder Flights Mark Galardo, Air Canada’s Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer, announced the introduction of direct services to San Antonio, Texas, as well as connections from Cleveland and Columbus to Montreal. This strategic move aims to support travel between these key destinations, facilitating connections across Air…

A Luxurious Escape to St. Barts: Discover Hotel Christopher The enchanting island of St. Barts is synonymous with Caribbean luxury, renowned for its vibrant social scene, exceptional French cuisine, and elite accommodations. Among its gems is the Hotel Christopher St. Barth, a waterfront boutique hotel celebrated for maintaining its family-owned charm in a market dominated by larger resorts and chains. “St. Barts is one of the most competitive luxury resort destinations in the world, and the owners take great pride in ensuring the resort leads by example when it comes to intuitive service, luxury and sustainable operation,” says Olivier Leroy,…

In a landmark move for travelers, Delta Air Lines is set to inaugurate flights to Malta and Sardinia in the spring of 2024, marking the first direct links between the U.S. and these stunning Mediterranean islands. Delta’s New Routes: Malta and Sardinia from New York JFK Starting on May 20, 2024, Delta will operate flights to Sardinia, Italy, offering four weekly flights from New York’s JFK Airport. Following closely, the airline will launch its Malta route on June 7, 2024, with three weekly flights scheduled. This initiative aims to connect U.S. travelers with the picturesque landscapes and cultural richness of…

Brand USA has made significant cuts, reducing its staff by 15%, or 12 roles, in response to a dramatic decrease in its federal funding. This drop saw its budget fall from $100 million to just $20 million for the fiscal year 2026. CEO Fred Dixon had previously indicated that the budget constraints would necessitate a substantial realignment of resources and programming. According to Chris Heywood, a spokesperson for the organization, these cuts are part of a larger corporate reorganization aimed at streamlining operations and merging departments to align better with current budget conditions and strategic goals. Impact of Budget Cuts…

Nathalie Tanious, president & CEO at TravelBrands. TravelBrands has officially announced the winners of this year’s Amazing Agent Race contest, which highlights the invaluable contributions of travel agents across Canada. The contest was designed to recognize top-performing travel agents who achieved the highest net sales, further emphasizing the critical role these professionals play in the travel industry. Acknowledging Exceptional Travel Agents In a recent press release, TravelBrands expressed their gratitude towards the dedicated travel agents who tirelessly support the industry. “Their dedication and expertise are the driving force behind Canada’s thriving travel community,” the company stated. The Launch of the…