Author: Torry K.

Acknowledgment of Excellence in Travel: TTAND Awarded Key Account of the Year 2024 The Travel Agent Next Door (TTAND) has been celebrated once again for its outstanding performance in the travel industry. For 2024, TTAND has been named the Key Account of the Year by Celebrity Cruises. In addition,TTAND has also secured a position on the prestigious list of the Top 50 Travel Agencies in North America. Recognition for Excellence in Sales and Growth “We are thrilled to have won these awards for two consecutive years,” stated Jeff Element, COO of TTAND. “This recognition affirms our steadfast commitment to supporting…

TTC Tour Brands has officially opened bookings for 2025 for its renowned labels: Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, and Costsaver. Travelers can look forward to a range of exciting new itineraries spanning destinations such as Alaska, India, Germany, and Sicily, among others. Melissa DaSilva, president of TTC Tour Brands North America, emphasizes the company’s commitment to authentic travel experiences, stating, "Partnering with vibrant local communities and uncovering new destinations is at the heart of what we do." The latest offerings aim to resonate deeply with travelers, ensuring immersive experiences that highlight diverse cultures, histories, and stunning landscapes around the globe. New Itineraries…

Viking River Cruises has announced plans to introduce new itineraries in India as part of its extensive river cruise offerings, set to launch in late 2027. This initiative has garnered considerable enthusiasm from travel advisors, who believe that India could emerge as a premier river cruise destination. The highlight of Viking’s expansion is the upcoming 15-day Wonders of India itinerary, scheduled to debut in December 2027. This tour will encompass a comprehensive land journey alongside an eight-day cruise on the Brahmaputra River aboard the newly designed Viking Brahmaputra, equipped to accommodate 80 guests. Notably, many departure dates during the inaugural…

Nestled in the lush greenery of St. Lucia, the Irie Valley Ride invites adventurers to experience the island’s unique blend of thrill and culture. Ideal for those eager to dive deeper into the island’s essence, this all-terrain vehicle (ATV) tour offers more than just an adrenaline rush—it takes you through the heart of St. Lucia itself. Participants embark from a roadside shack after signing their waivers, helmets securely fastened. The journey kicks off in the expansive banana fields, where towering green plants rise against a vivid blue sky. The atmosphere is filled with the sweet scent of guava as the…

Las Vegas hotels are facing significant challenges this summer, as evidenced by notable year-over-year declines in performance compared to other major U.S. markets. Factors such as reduced international visitor numbers and ongoing economic uncertainty have intensified the situation. According to preliminary data from STR, Las Vegas experienced a staggering 14.9% drop in occupancy in June, which is set to be the largest monthly decline of the year. This trend continued into July, where the week ending July 5 recorded an occupancy decline of 16.8%, bringing the rate down to 66.7%. Additionally, revenue per available room (RevPAR) plunged by 28.7%, down…

The Travel Corporation (TTC) has officially appointed Melissa DaSilva as the Interim CEO of TTC Tour Brands, effective immediately. This strategic leadership change comes as the company prepares for a transition following its upcoming sale. Leadership Transition at TTC Tour Brands Melissa DaSilva, who has held the position of President of TTC Tour Brands North America, brings over 30 years of extensive industry experience to her new role. She will take over from Gavin Tollman, the longstanding helm of TTC Tour Brands, who will exit the organization upon completion of the sale later this year. In her interim role, DaSilva…

In a sun-drenched unveiling on Saturday, Carnival Cruise Line welcomed its first guests to the much-anticipated Celebration Key, an exclusive destination set in the stunning Bahamas. Celebration Key. Photo Credit: Teri West Cruise editor Teri West explored Carnival’s latest private island on its grand opening, discovering a variety of ways to unwind, sip cocktails, and enjoy the refreshing water attractions. Continue Reading Carnival President Christine Duffy characterized the event as a culmination of over 25 years of planning, marked by vibrant celebrations including a lively performance from a Bahamian band welcoming guests from the Carnival Vista. Notably, Carnival’s brand ambassador…

Following a series of unsettling events—including a significant stock market decline in April and escalating tensions during the June conflict in Iran—cruise travelers briefly hesitated to book their next adventures. However, as the news cycle shifted, many quickly returned to scheduling their trips. Cruise industry analyst Patrick Scholes identifies cruise customers as a "notoriously panicky" group. Despite the economic and geopolitical turmoil seen in 2023, booking trends have remained relatively stable. This observation comes from not only cruise lines but also travel agencies and industry experts who note that the disruptions felt during international conflicts—particularly near popular cruise destinations—are primarily…

Luxury Travel Contest: Exclusive VIP Perks at Soneva Resorts Luxury travel enthusiasts are in for a treat! Soneva, a renowned name in ultra-luxury hospitality, is offering exclusive complimentary VIP perks for guests of any Soneva resort, valid for new bookings made before August 2026. This special initiative adds even more allure to Soneva’s already exquisite offerings, making it an opportune time to book a stay. Discover Soneva: The Epitome of Barefoot Luxury Soneva stands out in the luxury hotel market not just for its unique concept but also for its dedicated approach to guest experiences. With principles centered around barefoot…

Tauck Introduces Women-Centric Danube River Cruise Experience Starting November 4 and running through November 10, Tauck will embark on a unique seven-day cruise along the picturesque Danube River from Budapest to Vienna. This extraordinary journey, titled “Cruise Control”, is specifically designed for women in the travel industry but is also open to men, aiming to bridge understanding of workplace challenges. Empowering Events and Notable Speakers The “Cruise Control” itinerary is crafted to promote both personal and professional development, featuring a rich schedule that includes speaker presentations, wellness activities, and networking opportunities. Key figures joining the cruise include: Tauck CEO Jennifer…