Author: Torry K.

Ponant Explorations Group is set to enhance its offerings in French Polynesia by adding a second ship for the winter season of 2026-27. The new addition, Le Jacques Cartier, will join the well-known m/s Paul Gauguin in the region, operating from October 2026 through February 2027. This marks the inaugural season for the ship in the stunning waters of French Polynesia. Exciting Itineraries from Papeete Le Jacques Cartier will operate three unique 14-night itineraries, all departing round trip from Papeete, Tahiti. Each journey promises a distinct adventure: One itinerary will explore the beautiful Austral Islands. Another route will feature the…

When a cruise ship arrives in Bimini, guests are greeted by a short walk from the pier to the island’s main road, providing options to explore. While many passengers opt for a complimentary tram service directly to a beach, those willing to venture can discover Alice Town, the largest community on the island. ### Getting to Alice Town, Bimini The **complimentary tram** offered by cruise lines takes travelers to popular destinations such as the **Virgin Voyages Beach Club**, an exclusive beachfront experience. Passengers from other lines may also head left towards the neighboring **Resorts World beach**, known for its stunning…

From New Year’s beach raves to iconic live performances, here’s everything happening in Cuba’s most scenic corner—and where to stay nearby. Cayo Santa María is redefining itself beyond its pristine beaches and all-inclusive resorts, emerging as Cuba’s newest cultural and entertainment hub. The destination’s evolution presents travel advisors with fresh selling points for clients seeking more than just sun and sand. With a robust calendar of international events scheduled from July 2025 through February 2026, and strategic positioning near Gaviota’s premium hotel portfolio, Cayo Santa María is poised to capture a more diverse traveler base. Event Calendar: What’s Happening When…

TravelNewsToday.com continues to deliver the travel industry’s most trusted intelligence. As the essential daily resource for travel professionals worldwide, we decode complex market developments to help you make informed decisions that drive business success. Today, we analyze WestJet’s ambitious winter 2025/2026 schedule expansion and what it means for your travel operations. WestJet’s Bold Winter Expansion: 12 New Routes Create Fresh Opportunities WestJet has unveiled its most comprehensive winter schedule expansion in recent years, introducing five new destinations and seven new routes that create significant opportunities for travel agents, tour operators, and industry suppliers. With schedules going on sale July 14,…

The operational challenges and subsequent negative publicity surrounding Newark Airport during late April and May significantly impacted United Airlines, causing a drop in load factors by as much as 15%. This information was shared by United’s COO, Toby Enqvist, during the recent earnings call. Alongside reductions in Newark’s capacity and growing customer concerns, the airline’s overall profit margin for the second quarter suffered an estimated decline of 1.2 percentage points. However, the reopening of a runway at Newark in early June, which had undergone construction, has positioned United in a more favorable light. Enhanced air traffic control technology and better…

Vancouver is set to welcome a series of exclusive small-group events this August and September, initiated by Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours and Emerald Cruises, both of which are part of the esteemed Scenic Group. With additional sessions planned for the fall, these events aim to enhance the travel experiences of Canadian adventurers and travel advisors. Discover Scenic and Emerald Cruises The Ocean Travel Lounge events are designed to provide an immersive introduction to the captivating ocean experiences offered by Scenic and Emerald Cruises. Attendees will explore various options, ranging from expedition voyages to sun-kissed yachting destinations. Participants can expect…

Thatcher Brown has been appointed CEO of Crescent Seas, marking a significant step for the burgeoning residential cruise sector. Brown, who previously served as the senior vice president of global products at Virtuoso, will officially take charge of Crescent Seas starting August 1. With over 25 years of experience in luxury hospitality and cruise services, Brown brings a wealth of knowledge to the role. His impressive background includes leadership positions at notable companies such as Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings, Four Seasons Yachts, MSC Cruises, Dream Cruises, and Fairmont Hotels and Resorts. Crescent Seas was launched by Russell Galbut in March with…

The Maldives, located southwest of India, is a tropical paradise known for its lush islands, white-sand beaches, and turquoise lagoons. Renowned as one of the world’s premier luxury destinations, this archipelago boasts numerous exclusive resorts on private islands. These properties offer luxurious beachfront and overwater villas, gourmet dining from Michelin-starred chefs, and exceptional wellness retreats. Moreover, many top resorts feature ultra-luxury accommodations, redefining opulence with multi-bedroom villas often referred to as residences, estates, or private islands. Here’s a look at ten of the most stunning villas in the Maldives for your next dream getaway. 1. Four Seasons Private Island Maldives…

On July 3, Christian Estrosi, the mayor of Nice, made headlines as he approached the Royal Caribbean International’s Voyager of the Seas, boasting a capacity of 3,602 passengers, via dinghy while it was docked in Villefranche-sur-Mer. Footage of this unexpected encounter revealed Estrosi informing the crew, "You are not allowed to be there," highlighting a growing tension on the French Riviera regarding cruise industry regulations. This incident underscores the ongoing attempts by various cities along the French coastline to impose stricter limitations on cruise ships, sparking debates over port authority and jurisdiction. Following Nice’s lead, neighboring destinations like Cannes have…

The Grand Prix Plaza in Las Vegas has launched an exhilarating array of attractions and exhibits that immerse visitors in the thrilling world of Formula 1 racing. This impressive four-story structure, spanning 300,000 square feet, has served as the garage, pits, and observation area for the Las Vegas Grand Prix for the past two years. Recent enhancements have transformed it into the most extensive and engaging Formula 1 attraction in North America, offering a range of entertainment and amenities. For more information on these engaging experiences, visit here. Experience the Thrill of F1 Drive Visitors to Grand Prix Plaza can…