Author: Torry K.

The Amazon is not your typical river experience, and the Pure Amazon, Abercrombie & Kent’s inaugural riverboat in South America, offers an extraordinary journey unlike any other. Envision a floating boutique hotel and vibrant safari, but instead of spotting lions, expect to encounter pink dolphins, sloths, and an array of colorful birds amidst the mesmerizing backdrop of Peru’s Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. Photo Credit: Jeri Clausing The Pure Amazon is only the second vessel to navigate the waters of Peru’s vast river system in over ten years, joining a select group of less than a dozen riverboats operating in the region.…

The renowned Morimoto Las Vegas has unveiled a stunning renovation, complete with a fresh aesthetic and an exciting new menu. After closing its doors in early October for an extensive redesign, this celebrated Japanese restaurant has returned with a vibrant atmosphere that encapsulates the pulse of Tokyo’s nightlife. Experience the Atmosphere of Tokyo The MGM Grand describes the new dining experience at Morimoto as an embodiment of Tokyo’s electrifying evenings. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a sushi bar adorned with backlit Japanese brushstrokes in stunning hues of magenta, vermillion, and electric violet. The main dining room evokes the essence…

Introducing LUXE by The Travel Agent Next Door The Travel Agent Next Door (TTAND) has launched a new premium brand, LUXE by The Travel Agent Next Door, aimed at fulfilling the increasing demand for luxury travel products and services. This strategic move sets TTAND apart from conventional mass marketing methods that often overlook the discerning needs of affluent travelers. The Luxury Travel Market Opportunity According to Christine Ufniak, TTAND’s Director of Marketing, luxury travel represents a critical growth avenue for the agency. “The potential for higher commissions, fewer booking requirements, and long-lasting client loyalty makes this segment particularly appealing,” she…

The Sunwing Travel Group team Cuba’s allure was celebrated at the second annual Sunwing Loves Cuba event held on May 24. The picturesque Arlington Estates served as the backdrop for this vibrant gathering, which attracted over 210 travel advisors, Sunwing personnel, media representatives, and supplier partners from the Greater Toronto Area. Open Jaw was on hand to glean insights into recent developments in this tropical vacation hotspot. Deana Murphy, Vice President of Retail Sales at Sunwing, emphasized the main objective of the event: “The ultimate goal from an event like this is for people to walk away with a new…

JetBlue Expands Puerto Rico Operations with New Routes JetBlue Airways, the leading airline in Puerto Rico in terms of seat capacity, has announced an exciting expansion of its operations from San Juan, set to launch in March 2024. This expansion includes five new routes, further solidifying JetBlue’s presence in the market and increasing travel options for passengers. New Year-Round Routes from San Juan Beginning next month, JetBlue will offer year-round service from San Juan to several key destinations, including Philadelphia, Buffalo, N.Y., Jacksonville, Fla., and the Virginia cities of Richmond and Norfolk. Upon the launch of these routes, JetBlue will…

The arrival of winter brings a divide among travelers: some seek warmth on sunny beaches, while others eagerly prepare to hit the slopes. For those who fall into the latter category, considerations about winter ski trips often arise, prompting the age-old question: Is it more affordable to ski in the U.S. or Europe? Navigating the Costs of Ski Trips Determining the cost of a ski trip between the two continents can be complex due to various factors, including daily or multiday passes, peak versus off-peak rates, accommodation types, and airfare. However, a general comparison can shed light on potential costs…

Silversea Cruises has announced a significant delay in the opening of its highly anticipated hotel, The Cormorant at 55 South, located in the picturesque town of Puerto Williams, Chile. Originally scheduled to welcome guests in January, the opening has now been pushed back to October 2026. This venue is being developed specifically for passengers embarking on Antarctica fly-cruise packages, enhancing the overall pre-cruise experience for guests. The Cormorant at 55 South: A Luxury Retreat Designed to serve as a restful hub for visitors before their extraordinary voyages to Antarctica, The Cormorant at 55 South will not only offer luxurious accommodations…

A recent economic study conducted by the Center for Business and Economic Research (CBER) at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, indicates that visitation to Las Vegas is expected to rebound in 2026. Projections suggest that southern Nevada will attract approximately 40.1 million visitors, representing an increase of about 2.4% compared to this year, which is estimated to see around 39.1 million tourists. This decline marks a 6% drop from 2024 but encompasses a variety of economic factors that tourism officials continue to monitor closely. As we look to the future, the upcoming holiday season, including events like the National…

After a challenging year characterized by economic fluctuations and global tensions, the spirit of travel is rekindling among Canadians. According to Allianz Global Assistance Canada’s latest Winter Vacation Confidence Study, nearly half of Canadians (46%) are eager to embark on a winter vacation this year. This marks an impressive recovery, up 11 percentage points from last winter, indicating that the allure of winter getaways is rapidly returning. Generational Travel Trends This year’s survey, part of a long-standing annual tradition, highlights distinct travel trends among different age groups. Millennials exhibit the highest confidence in travel plans, with 52% intending to escape…

TravelBrands has been recognized as a Chairman’s Circle honoree by the U.S. Travel Association and Brand USA, underscoring its commitment to enhancing travel to the United States. The prestigious award was presented during the Chairman’s Circle Honors event on May 20 at the Tobin Centre in San Antonio, Texas, celebrating the vital roles of international travel buyers in promoting travel to the U.S. Elvi Cal, the Vice President of Product and Partnerships at TravelBrands, expressed profound gratitude for the recognition, stating, “We are incredibly honoured to once again receive recognition for our steadfast commitment to connecting travelers with their favourite…