1116PG01.indd 1 11/13/2017 3:35:36 PM 1116PG02.indd 2 11/13/2017 2:51:12 PM CONTENTS Noteworthy
REGULAR FEATURES
10 cover story Off the beaten path in Ireland
15 events Travel industry calendar Just about says it all 18 fams Upcoming educational trips for the trade
resident Donald Trump appears to be as unpopular Pwith the British as he is with Canadians according to a survey conducted on behalf of World Travel Market DESTINATIONS & FEATURES London. But, unlike Canucks, the Brits are saying they will stay away as long as Trump inhabits the White House. 16 all-inclusives More than a quarter of UK vacationers who responded What’s new with your favourite said they are now less likely to visit the US given the all-inclusive resorts election upset. But what’s even more disturbing is the fact that the survey report also noted that 40% of travel trade 19 africa responses indicated that “the US is not a country to do Check out the latest product news business with under the current president.” The WTM 2017 Industry Report pointed out that online searches for flights to the US dropped 13% imme- 20 hawaii & the south pacifi c diately after the election according to Cheapflights and, Always something happening in the islands six months later, the US Travel Association revealed UK numbers were down 6% year-over-year. Citing the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), DEPARTMENTS a WTM official told reporters, “All in all, a drop-off in tourism is expected to result in 4.3 million fewer visitors this year, which adds up to a staggering loss of $7.4 billion 23 careers in revenue for the US.” tc professional services —Mike Dunbar business opportunities cover photo/ ANN RUPPENSTEIN
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1116PG03.indd 3 11/13/2017 3:27:29 PM THE RIGHT RECIPE Transat has a taste for growth in Europe
bob mowat
It became pretty clear, pretty quickly that Transat Tours Canada is set on growing its business in Europe – during both the upcoming winter season and on into the summer of 2018.
In fact, Transat’s vice-president, national sales and commercial, Denise Heffron was quick to point out that in 2018, the operator will be featuring 28 destinations and will “not only be defending its number-one position in Ready to cook up something new for the 2018 Europe season, from (l-r|) are Transat Europe,” but it will be on a mission to Tours Canada Inc.’s Denise Heffron, vice-president, national sales and commercial; significantly increase that position. Dan Prior, sales manager, Ontario and Atlantic Canada; and Nicole Bursey, commercial Heffron – speaking to a group of director, who are seen at Cirillo’s Culinary Academy where the operator held its VIP about 50 VIP, travel trade types at a pres- Europe launch last week. entation at Cirillo’s Culinary Academy in west Toronto last week – said that this winter, Transat has new television commercials in that market and returning to upped its Europe capacity by 19%; in the summer, the increase Toronto’s Dundas Square with a significant presence there. to Europe is 12%; and globally, the operator’s capacity has Nicole Bursey, commercial director for Transat, told the grown by 14%. gathering that the company’s Europe product is growing – not She also made it clear that along with taking an aggressive by adding new destinations – as the operator strengthens its approach to Europe, Transat has also renewed its commitment position in its key markets – increasing its capacity into the to further expose the Transat brand in Ontario, launching UK, Portugal, Israel, Spain, and Ireland. continued on page 6
TRAVEL Vol.52 No.44 www.travelcourier.ca ® COURIER BaxterTravelMedia baxter-travel-media CdnTravelPress BaxterTM FOUNDER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF PRESIDENT EXECUTIVE V.P. OPERATIONS W.H. Baxter, 1919-2004 Edith Baxter, [email protected] David McClung, [email protected] Wendy McClung, [email protected]
Bob Mowat, Executive Editor [email protected] SALES & MARKETING: Florida – North: Gillian Harper [email protected] Greg D. Coates, Assistant Editor [email protected] Earl Lince, Director of International Marketing [email protected] Hawaii: Laurie Doerschlen [email protected] Mike Dunbar, Quebec Editor [email protected] Rodney Tugwell, Sales Manager [email protected] Central & South America: Lillian Martinez [email protected] Ted Davis, Western Editor [email protected] Mitchell McClung, Account Executive [email protected] Mexico: Paloma Martinez [email protected] Ian Stalker, Senior Writer [email protected] Daniel McDonald, Classifi eds [email protected] Ann Ruppenstein, Assistant Editor [email protected] PRODUCTION: Western Canada: Terry Ohman [email protected] Johnny Koo, Art Director [email protected] Emily McClung, Audience/Product Development Manager Alberta: Greg Ohman [email protected] Wayne Labourn, Production Manager [email protected] [email protected] Quebec & Atlantic Canada: Rodney Tugwell [email protected] Sharron Taylor, Adv. Material Coordinator [email protected] Ashley Rochefort, Marketing & Special Projects Manager USA: Earl Lince [email protected] Dragana Lekovic-Lucic, Senior Design Manager [email protected] Florida – South: Dino Torres [email protected] Wayne McDonald, Michael Mouatt, Production Artists Dee Ristic, Circulation [email protected] TRAVEL COURIER is published weekly by Baxter Travel Media at 310 Dupont St., Toronto, Ont., Canada M5R 1V9 Tel.: 416-968-7252, We acknowledge the support of Fax: 416-968-2377. Single price per copy $2.00 (plus applicable taxes). Subscription Rates: Canada - $60 per year(plus applicable the Government of Canada taxes). HST #R120906425): Foreign - $110 US per year. ISSN 1182-9699. Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement No. 40063078. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Circulation Department, 310 Dupont Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5R 1V9 e-mail: [email protected]. PRINTED IN CANADA Copyright 2017.
4 travelcourier.ca | november 16, 2017
1116PG04-8.indd 4 11/13/2017 4:05:12 PM #1to the Sun
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1116PG04-8.indd 5 11/13/2017 4:05:13 PM NEWS
continued from page 4 Those capacity increases, she said, are from Toronto and Montreal and the operator has also put more connector service in place from Western Canada to feed into those gateways. Of note, Bursey told the crowd that one of the things that’s become really clear – referring to conversations that she’d had at a recent conference – is that “agents are all over Portugal this season.” Heffron also took time to remind the agents on hand that “Cuba is 150% open and ready to host your clients.” And while she said she knows that those in the audience already know that Cuba’s good to go, the job now is to get that message out to consumers. tc The surprising Las Vegas Golden Knights visited Toronto Nov. 6 to play the Leafs at the Air Canada Centre, prompting the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority’s Canadian reps to host select travel industry personnel at the game. The Golden Knights, off to an impressive 9-4-1 start in their HAWAII’S ISLAND AIR debut season, lost to the Leafs in a shoot-out. Pictured at the game are the CEASES OPERATIONS LVCVA’s David Han and Stephanie Freed-Burns.
Hawaii Island Air, Inc. (Island Air) has ceased operations, as of Nov. 11. As a result of this announcement, all Island Air passengers must make alterna- tive arrangements for inter-island CARNIVAL REDESIGNS GOCCL.COM AGENT SITE transportation, Earlier this month, Island Air was Carnival Cruise Line has redesigned search functionality, which allows agents forced to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy GoCCL.com, the line’s travel agent to find what they are looking for more protection in an effort to continue oper- online resource. quickly and accurately; Mobile device ations following threats of legal action Enhancements were made based on responsiveness, allowing agents to look by the Lessors of Island Air’s aircraft extensive agent feedback from the line’s at information on the go; New direct to ground and repossess the company’s Travel Partner Advisory Committee, feed to the line’s Trade Facebook page; fleet. Island Air was unable to locate a as well as the full agent community Easy-to-access sales and promotions new investor or lender to provide fund- through online surveys and an opt-in information; All content now resides ing to support airline flight operations testing period in October. behind the login, making GoCCL.com a and a successful reorganization. The redesign launched with sub- true business-to-business site experience “Island Air has taken every meas- stantial improvements to the cruise and for agents. ure possible to avoid this tremendous promotion research features, as well as To learn more about the features hardship to its passengers,” said David enhanced site navigation and search of the new GoCCL.com, travel agents Uchiyama, Island Air president and functionality. may participate in a self-guided tutor- CEO. “Island Air appreciates the loyalty Specific enhancements include: A ial on the site. They may also contact and support its customers, management, new, clean and modern design; Improved their business development manager or employees, and vendors have shown the “navigation bar” functionality; New Carnival’s sales support and operations airline, especially during the last few “Ship Navigator” on the home page, team at: weeks of this bankruptcy process. Island which provides all key details of a [email protected] Air is proud of its 37-year history of ser- Carnival ship on one page, making the vice to the State of Hawaii.” research experience seamless; Upgraded
6 travelcourier.ca | november 16, 2017
1116PG04-8.indd 6 11/13/2017 4:05:14 PM UCING THE A OD LL-N TR EW IN
ROYAL BARBADOS
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ROOFTOP RESTAURANT & BAR DINE AT 6 SANDALS FIRST SPECIALTY RESTAURANTS With 6 spectacular specialty restaurants, including Sandals fi rst rooftop restaurant— Sandals Royal Barbados brings a new level of 5-Star Global Gourmet™ dining to the Caribbean. And 11 more restaurants can be enjoyed at nearby Sandals Barbados.
PLUS! IT’S TWO VACATIONS IN ONE! MORE QUALITY INCLUSIONS THAN ANY When you STAY @ Sandals Royal Barbados you can also PLAY @ Sandals Barbados OTHER RESORTS ON THE PLANET THE WORLD’S SANDALS.COM 1.800.545.8283 ONLY 5-STAR LUXURY ROYAL BARBADOS *Airport transfers included. Other transfers may be an additional cost. INCLUDED® RESORTS Luxury car transfers available for select top-tier suites only. Sandals® is THE MOST EXCLUSIVE ALL-INCLUSIVE.EVER. a registered trademark. Unique Vacations, Inc. is an affi liate of Unique Travel Corp., the worldwide representative of Sandals Resorts.
1116PG04-8.indd 7 11/13/2017 4:05:15 PM click here NEWS for digital extras
TICO CHARGES VISION TRAVEL ADDS ANOTHER AGENCY IN ONTARIO
Emmanuel Adjei has been charged with Brian Robertson, president of Vision into the Vision Travel family,” said seven counts of operating as a travel agent Travel Solutions, is pleased to announce Robertson. “As much as we are now a without registration, contrary to the Travel that Peter and Linda Van Der Heyden global company, this acquisition will Industry Act. Adjei operated in Toronto. have agreed to join forces with Vision create a much stronger network of brick The first court appearance is scheduled Travel. Located across southern Ontario and mortar locations across Ontario, for Nov. 16 at the Ontario Court of Justice, and established in 1986 by Peter and complementing our personalized Provincial Offences Court. In another mat- Linda Van Der Heyden, the family- approach to travel. Vision Travel’s focus ter, Dominic Daly has been charged with owned operation specializes in leisure, on service was a key factor in this deci- three counts of operating as a travel agent corporate and group travel and features sion and their membership in Virtuoso is without registration. The first court appear- 12 locations with the head office located a perfect fit for our luxury clientele,” said ance is scheduled for Nov. 16 at the Ontario in Waterloo, Ontario. “Peter has built a Van Der Heyden, who will join Vision’s Court of Justice, Provincial Offences Court. great organization and we look forward leadership team. The deal is scheduled to → www.tico.ca to welcoming both him and his team close Nov 30, 2017.
AIR
AIR CANADA AIR FRANCE, KLM
Air Canada is using virtual reality As of April 1, 2018, Flying Blue, Air according to officials, will make the technology to simulate the experi- France-KLM’s loyalty program, is accrual of miles easier. In addition, ence of flying on its Boeing 787 changing, becoming simpler to use and customers will be able to earn miles Dreamliner for travel agents and offering more flexibility, as well as a when purchasing additional servi- potential customers. Through a fully clearer reward scale and more choice ces such as an A la Carte Menu on immersive, interactive experience, in the use of miles. For each euro spent, board an Air France flight, additional users can explore all three cabins of Ivory, Silver, Gold and Platinum mem- baggage allowance, or reserving an service offered on board the air- bers will receive four, six, seven and Economy Comfort seat on a KLM craft, including enjoying a virtual eight miles, respectively. The number flight. The balance of Award Miles International Business Class meal of miles earned will no longer depend as of March 31, 2018 will remain complete with wine in an Executive on the distance flown between origin unchanged on April 1, 2018. For an Pod. With the headset on, and con- and destination, on flights marketed by ever more personalized offer, booking trols in hand, the journey begins with Air France, KLM, HOP! or Joon. This, Award tickets will no longer be lim- an overview of Air Canada’s global ited per flight, but offered until the route network followed by an explor- last seat available for sale. All seats ation of the new Air Canada livery. reality experience will be available at the on Air France, KLM, HOP!, Joon and On the trip, users can experience all following events: BAZAR ED, Santiago, Transavia flights can be booked with three cabins: Economy, Premium Chile. Nov. 22–26; WX Top 100 miles. The miles needed for a ticket Economy or International Business. Leadership Summit, Toronto, Nov. 23; EY will be based on origin, destination Amenity kits, an Air Canada en route Entrepreneur of the Year National Gala, and flight date. In addition, the new magazine, tray tables, and inflight The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto, Nov. 30. Miles & Cash option will allow Flying entertainment are just some of the To complement the Virtual Reality Blue members to pay up to 25% of elements that can be touched, opened Experience, Air Canada has produced Award tickets in cash. As of April 1, and moved, guided by an audio-based 360 degree videos of the 787 cabin that 2018, Flying Blue accounts will be flight attendant. Interactive experi- can be accessed on a mobile device or automatically updated and customers ences such as dinner service add an desktop at: will be able to keep using all func- extra element of fun. Air Canada’s → www.aircanada.com/ca/en/aco/home/fly/ tionalities of their account. Boeing 787 Dreamliner virtual onboard/cabin-features.html → www.flyingblue.com
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1116PG04-8.indd 8 11/13/2017 4:05:15 PM ROOMS click here for digital extras
OPUS, YOO HOTELS
Canada’s Opus Hotel Corporation and UK-based YOO Hotels & Resorts have launched a brand partnership and 10-year expansion plan to develop and operate a series of OPUS by YOO Collection and OPUS by yoo2 hotels across RIU HOTELS & RESORTS Canada and Mexico, as well as in select US markets. The exclusive partnership will allow both globally recognized boutique RIU Hotels & Resorts has donated hoteliers to explore ground-up development, repositioning and management $400,000 to UNICEF to address opportunities in North America’s key urban and resort destinations. The deal needs in education and protection also includes an exclusivity arrangement for Opus Hotel Corporation within the following the September earthquakes Canadian and Mexican markets. in Mexico. The first OPUS by YOO Collection hotel, the 110-suite Versante, is scheduled The money will be used to build to launch in early 2019 at the Vancouver International Airport. Other OPUS by temporary classrooms, and purchase YOO destination properties slated for development include both Canada’s as well furniture and equipment needed by as Mexico’s Pacific West Coast. students and teachers. →www.opushotelsgroup.com UNICEF calculations say RIU’s donation could contribute to building and setting up nearly 100 classrooms, to be repaired or rebuilt. following the earthquakes to help which would enable hundreds of RIU has 18 hotels in Mexico, a country alleviate suffering. children to immediately resume their with which it has had a long relationship, →www.riu.com education, while waiting for schools and the chain went to work immediately
TOURING
Britain, northern France, Belgium and who made the ultimate sacrifice the Netherlands. with the loss of more than 24,000 On the 12-Day WWI & WWII courageous soldiers. Battlefields, Trafalgar takes guests Clients will also get the oppor- beyond the expected to explore the tunity to pay their respects to TRAFALGAR important military sites and cultural their brave countrymen and women COMMEMORATES history of Europe. when exploring the First World War THE END OF THE As part of Trafalgar’s “Special site of Vimy Ridge which came to FIRST WORLD WAR Interest” travel style, the WWI & WWII symbolize Canada’s coming of age Battlefields itinerary takes clients to as a nation. As we remember Remembrance the wars’ most significant monuments, On an excursion to Ypres, clients Day, 2018 will be a historically memorials and museums through will also stop in Passchendaele to visit significant year for Canada as we Britain, France, Belgium and the the museum and see a replica trench not only honour those 650,000 Netherlands. Starting in London and where 100,000 Canadians bravely Canadian men and women who ending in Amsterdam, the trip stops in fought for victory and nine of our served and fought in The Great War, Caen, Amiens, Paris, Lilles and includes soldiers were awarded the Victoria but also commemorate the end of the day trips to Somme, Ypres, Portsmouth, Cross. Guests then visit Essex Farm war. Trafalgar invites Canadian trav- and more. Guests will visit the signifi- Cemetery where Canadian John ellers to join them on an immersive cant Somme Battlefields, where the McCrae wrote his immortal Great journey to the most poignant battle- Canadians Corps gained a notable War poem “In Flanders Fields.” fields and monuments in southern reputation as first-rate front-line troops →www.trafalgar.com
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1116PG09.indd 9 11/13/2017 2:28:08 PM COVER STORY
IRELAND
DISCOVERING IREL It’s wild, it’s ancient and so much more
Story/photos ANN RUPPENSTEIN
etweeneettwweeeen increasedincn reeasasedd airairi access,accccesss,s thetheh easeeaase ofo ggettingete tit ngg says.sasaysy . “What“WWhahat wew wwouldououldl rrecommendececommmem ndn ttoo yoyyourourur cclientslil enentss iiss tot araroundouund aandnd vvisitorisi ititoro arrivalsarrr ivivalals fromfrf omm CCanadaananadada maybemmaybbe comecoc mee aandndd ddoo ononene oror ttwowowo ooff thttheseesese zozonesonenes atat a ttime.imimee.. growing to 203,000 last year, there are many We also have interpretation panels giving a little insight reasons for agents to sell Ireland, but Debbie into what’s happening in the area.” BMoran, trade engagement advisor for Failte Ireland can add to the list. 2) Ireland’s Ancient East, which features 5,000 years As a means of attracting more travellers, she says the of Ireland’s history across must-see attractions such as tourism development authority frequently reinvigorates Glendalough, Newgrange, and the Rock of Cashel. Ireland’s offer as a holiday destination. “This is our second brand which we launched, and “Ireland as a nation doesn’t actually get the visitor it’s very, very different with rolling lush green land- spread evenly,” she says. “A lot of the visitors will fly scapes,” she says. “A lot of fields, Christian Heritage into Dublin, and they’ll go straight down to Cork and sites, manor houses, castles and gardens, they would Kerry region, and Galway, and fly out again in Dublin or all be in this particular area. And Canadians, from Shannon... What the business development team is try- my research, they do tend to move around quite a ing to do is encourage tour operators, travel agents and bit in different areas, so when they come in on their visitors alike to visit the lesser-known areas.” holidays to Ireland they would like to do two or even Three of the most recently launched core brand three different regions. attributes for visitors to experience are: To encourage visitors to discover the region, she says main attractions along the path feature Ireland’s 1) The Wild Atlantic Way, the longest defined Ancient East signage, not only to orientate people, but coastal touring route in the world, stretching 2,500 km. also to showcase what else there is to do nearby. “It’s all about the wild ruggedness,” she says. “We would encourage people to travel by car, to get into the 3) DUBLIN: A Breath of Fresh Air, geared at towns and villages and experiencing local festivals, the getting visitors to take in the coastal areas and Irish language, and some of the Irish cultures.” attractions along the capital city such as cycling in The route is broken down into six zones with 188 the soaring Dublin mountains or going for a dip at marked discovery points – photo opportunities where the famous 40 Foot, a bathing area beside Sandycove clients can take a shot to post on social media. In each Beach. spot, travellers can also collect stamps in a Wild Atlantic “Dublin is very popular at the minute and is very, Way passport, either at the local tourism or post office, very busy, but a lot of people are coming right into the available for 10 euro. city centre and ignoring the beautiful coastal towns “It’s a collector’s item and encourages you to come along Dublin city such as Malahide, Dún Laoghaire, back and try to finish and get every single stamp,” she Sandymount,” she says.
1116 TC cover Story IRELAND.indd 10 11/13/2017 4:37:00 PM ELAND
#CAIRELANDFAM
A few weeks ago, Travel Courier joined a group of 18 Canadian agents and tour operators for an eight-day FAM to experience the brand attributes and some of Ireland’s unique tourism offers, alongside Tourism Ireland in Canada, Failte Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland. Along with visiting the capital city and popular attrac- tions like the Guinness Storehouse and Titanic Belfast, the journey showcased some more off-the-beaten-path destin- ations and things to do, which agents can utilize to help increase their Ireland bookings, says Jonathan Sargeant, trade promotions and e-marketing executive at Tourism Ireland. “Often agents are confident selling Dublin and areas that are well-known for tourism,” he says. “However, don’t be afraid to book lesser-known parts of Ireland that offer great value and have excellent experiences. We got to see some wonderful places such as Derry-Londonderry, the North Wild Atlantic Way counties of Donegal, Sligo and the northern part of Ireland’s Ancient East – Cavan and the beautiful town of Carlingford, Co. Louth.” For Darlene St. Louis, UK product manager/air dept. manager at Senior Discovery Tours, the best parts of the trip were the authentic experiences like having a home- made meal and taking part in a soda bread-making demon- stration by Fred the Baker at the home of Tracey Jeffrey of NI Food Tours, and learning about the process of making gin at the Listoke Distillery & Gin School, where the group got to distill their own blend of gin and enjoy some Listoke 1777 gin and tonics. Both ventures can be booked for clients. “These were such interactive experiences, not just a visit, and bring the whole gastronomy aspect to a higher level,” she says. “The dinners outside of the hotels and seeing the high quality of accommodation — these aspects of the FAM have opened an opportunity to possibly create
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1116 TC cover Story IRELAND.indd 11 11/13/2017 4:37:02 PM GETTING THERE “I have always sold Ireland, but like most agents, the Dublin to Killarney to Waterford back to Dublin triangle is what most Air Canada, Air Transat, ASL, WestJet, and Aer Lingus clients ask for,” he says. “And why not, it’s a great itinerary. connect Canadians with the Emerald Isle. June 2018 But now we have an opportunity to sell… Ireland from top to will see the launch of new non-stop, seasonal Air bottom and all the treasures in between.” Canada Toronto-Shannon and Montreal-Dublin For Shelly Monroe, Personal Travel Consultant at Sweet routes. As of Oct. 29, the existing Toronto-Dublin Escapes Travel – TPI, learning about the tourism offer in service transferred to Air Canada mainline from Air Northern Ireland was her favourite part of the journey. Canada Rouge, with increased frequencies this win- “I really liked that we visited off-the-beaten-track places” ter, daily next summer. Seasonal Vancouver-Dublin she adds. “With the exception of Dublin we went to many service also resumes next summer with an increase in areas that are not the typical touristy hot spots. Belfast is full weekly frequencies to five, up from three. of history, the Giant’s Causeway is a must-see, and I really liked the walled city of Derry-Londonderry.” One way to learn more about the history of Derry- Londonderry is to embark on a walking tour with Martin McCrossan City Tours, a company that has taken the likes of a smaller bespoke higher-end group tour that focuses on the Will Ferrell on a tour of the city’s political murals. food and drink.” In addition to discovering how amazing the food is, how As the FAM marked his first return to Ireland in over 40 genuinely nice the people are and how easy it is to get around, years, Eric Moe, special projects and student group travel man- Carla Wilson of Custom Travel Solutions, Calgary says ager at Carlson Wagonlit Victor Travel/Victours, counts seeing Arranmore Island (pictured on the cover) and Glenveagh Castle Belfast and Derry-Londonderry, and the Giant’s Causeway, really stood out. which features 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the result “I loved the remoteness of Arranmore Island and the beauty of an ancient volcanic eruption 60 million years ago, as the of Glenveagh Castle and the National Park surrounding it,” she highlights of the FAM. says, noting that the Epic museum in Dublin should also not be missed. “There is so much to see and do in that area.” As for Karen Pearson from The Great Canadian Travel Company Ltd. in Winnipeg, taking part in the Winterfell Game of Thrones Experience at Castle Ward was a highlight. The series has had a tremendous impact on growing tourism to the region. “It was a lot of fun, and I also think it was a great ice breaker for our group,” she notes. Meanwhile touring around Northern Ireland, especially Belfast, also, “emphasized what a great place it is to visit.” Similarly, Marie-Eve Derouin, product manager, Mediterranean and Europe destinations at Exotik Tours/ TravelBrands, also enjoyed Belfast and seeing the city’s murals, among many other aspects of the FAM. “To sell a destination well is all about feeling the coun- try, talking with the people, tasting the food, learning the history, while walking in a castle, smelling the fresh air near the sea,” she says. “You can’t experience this online, and this is what makes you fall in love with the country... and when you are in love, you just want to talk about it all the time.”
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1116 TC cover Story IRELAND.indd 12 11/13/2017 3:30:03 PM SELLING IRELAND 101
Jonathan Sargeant, trade promotions and e-marketing executive at Tourism Ireland, provides some top tips on how agents can increase their bookings to the Emerald Isle.
Encourage clients to get off the beaten track – travel west, north and south from Dublin – there really is a great product offering throughout the island nowadays, and the lesser-known destinations offer excellent value, as well as superb product experiences.
Focus on food – food tourism is a new phenomenon in Ireland. We have an incredible food and drink offering, and it’s something that was perhaps not considered by Canadians 10-15 years ago. There’s a new restaurant or distillery opening almost every week. Gin has really taken off.
Sell the Ps – Place – we are a country full of breathtaking scenery, a fascinating culture and unforgettable experience. Proximity – many people don’t realize just how close we are to Ireland. Fly direct in 6.5 hours from Toronto and Montreal, and four hours from Eastern Canada. We also have direct flights from Vancouver, which is only a nine-hour flight. People are what make Ireland such a special destination. Meet friendly locals in every town, chat to them in the pub, or at a traditional Irish music session.
Utilize our resources – we have a new trade website which has some great content, and lots of cool ideas for your clients. We also have a content pool, which is a great resource for imagery and videos, and if you sign up for our e-zines (through the trade website), we can keep you updated on what’s new and going on in Ireland and about any in-market events we are hosting. Trade website – trade.ireland.com, Content pool – irelandscontentpool.com
THE AGENTS SAY… After participating in the FAM, agents share tips for other travel advisors to increase their Ireland bookings. • “I would suggest utilizing the Irish Tourist Board, as they have a wealth of knowledge. Of course, any time you can actually experience a destination it becomes so much easier to sell and promote. To be able to recount first hand knowledge to a client is a great selling tool.” Carla Wilson, Custom Travel Solutions, Calgary • “I would suggest selling a region of Ireland to explore and not try to visit most of the country in one visit. You miss so much immersing yourself and hanging with the locals, if you are rushing to get from point A to B. You need to focus on exploring an area and really do it right.” Shelly Monroe, Sweet Escapes Travel – TPI, West Porters Lake • “I love sharing my pictures and videos of Ireland on Instagram and Facebook. I truly believe social media is the way to advertise nowadays. I’m going to host an Irish Evening at our local library and share my pictures, as well as some great soda bread and Irish tea.” Leah Holt, Go Travel, Edson • “Just talk about being there. People can sense your enthusiasm, and it makes them want to go there. Our office also posts blogs on our website and photos on social media, as well as highlighting tours and destinations in our email newsletter.” Karen Pearson, The Great Canadian Travel Company Ltd., Winnipeg • “I always offer to add a few nights in Ireland when clients ask me to book Scotland… I would offer it for clients who loved nature or have been to Scotland or Iceland, to those who like golf, history, food.” Marie-Eve Derouin, Exotik Tours/TravelBrands • “I recommend becoming familiar with what is offered for Ireland travel with our local tour operators, as well as local suppliers. There are great opportun- ities to learn by attending Ireland travel trade events and through webinars.” Denise MacKay, the Alberta Motor Association – Travel, Calgary tc
1116 TC cover Story IRELAND.indd 13 11/13/2017 3:30:08 PM EXPERIENCING IRELAND On the #CAIrelandFAM, the group...
Visited Castle Ward, a filming location for Game of Thrones, to take part in the Winterfell Game of Thrones Experience, complete with an archery lesson...
Immersed themselves in local specialties like Guinness and Listoke 1777...
took in some off-the-beaten-path locations like Carlingford, Co. Louth...
and Experienced some stunning views like the Giant’s Causeway; the scenic Arranmore Island (this week’s cover shot); and plenty of picturesque manor homes and castles like Glenarm Castle.
14 travelcourier.ca | november 16, 2017
1116 TC cover Story IRELAND.indd 14 11/13/2017 3:30:14 PM click here EVENTS for digital extras {Send Submissions to [email protected]}
S A N D A L S Weddings Webinars Nov. 20, 27 Sandals Resorts has introduced a new series of wedding webinars designed exclusively for travel agents through- out November. The one-hour webinars will introduce agents to Sandals’ new weddings program called “Aisle to Isle.” Agents will learn important details about the new inspirations and customized weddings available for their clients, as well as enhanced perks for weddings groups, while discovering how they can maximize 7 p.m. EST; Nov. 27, 7 p.m. EST. com/tas or contact their local business their own sales in this important To register for a webinar, agents can development manager or Inside Sales niche market. sign up on the Sandals Travel Agent at 1-800-545-8283. The schedule is as follows: Nov. 20, portal under “Specials” at www.sandals. →www.sandals.com/tas
COX & KINGS T R A F A L G A R Trafalgar Canada’s team members “Chit-Chat Chai & Samosa” Party Love to Talk Travel will host Love to Talk Travel gatherings, Nov. 30 Various dates starting in Vancouver and London, and Cox & Kings (India, Nepal, Bhutan, In celebration of The Good Life, Trafalgar onwards across Ontario, British Colum- Sri Lanka, Maldives, and UAE) is Canada will host 34 “Love to Talk Travel” bia, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatche- hosting “Chit-Chat Chai & Samosa” social gatherings across Canada. wan, Atlantic Canada, and in Montreal, Party Nov. 30 at the Stay Inn Hotel For the seventh consecutive year, travel and completing the celebrations on in Toronto, 560 Evans Ave., near agents and their clients are invited to Jan. 25 in Brandon and Vancouver. the Sherway Garden Mall off 427 attend the interactive and fun receptions. All gatherings begin at 7 p.m., and QEW. Schedule: 5:30 p.m., “All the details are taken care of, and with doors opening and refreshments registration; 6 p.m., Chit-Chat begins; guests can relax and be in the moment, being served at 6:30 p.m. Space is 7 p.m., prizes. as they mingle together and share their limited, so guests are encouraged to This event is for travel industry favourite Trafalgar experiences and be RSVP early. Guests will also have a associates only. Space is limited. RSVP inspired with new immersive travels,” the chance to win door prizes. by Nov. 27 to [email protected] . tour operator says. →www.lovetotalktravel.ca
HOME OF CANADA’S MOST TRUSTED TRAVEL INDUSTRY NEWS Canadian Travel Press Agents’ Choice Awards Baxter Travel Media delivers the news and Travel Courier ClearingCalendar.ca information industry professionals rely on. Press Today Responsible Travel & Tourism Forum TravelPress.com Baxter Student Ambassador Program Subscribe today. We’re mobile friendly. TravelBestJobs.com Canadian Tourism Resource Guide travelpress.com/subscribe PersonnelGuide.ca Travel Webcast [email protected] TravelBlast
november 16, 2017 | travelcourier.ca 15
1116PG15.indd 15 11/13/2017 3:54:20 PM ALL-INCLUSIVES
RIU PALACE PARADISE ISLAND NOW ADULTS-ONLY
RIU has reopened Bahamian resort Riu Palace Paradise Island, a 24-hour all-inclusive hotel that, after a complete renovation, is now exclusively for guests over 18. The hotel, part of RIU since 2005, on Sandals Resorts recently hosted a fam trip for 15 Ontario travel agents Paradise Island, provides free WiFi in all to showcase its extensive product offering and recent refurbishments in areas of the hotel, concierge and 24-hour Jamaica. Just in time for the upcoming winter season, participants visited room service, in addition to the exclusive all Sandals and Beaches properties in Montego Bay, Negril and the South customer service of RIU Hotels & Resorts. Coast region to gain valuable first-hand knowledge on the resorts’ facilities The 379 rooms have minibars, bev- and amenities. During a pit-stop at Latitudes, the new Over the Water erage dispensers, air conditioning and Bar at Sandals South Coast, agents posed for a photo, including: Sandy a coffee maker. Other facilities include Willett, Goliger’s Travel Plus, Waterloo; Lynn McKone, Goliger’s Travel two swimming pools, one of them with Plus, Stratford; Colleen Renton, Goliger’s Travel Plus, Brantford; Jacquie a swim-up bar, and an area of umbrellas Macey, Goliger’s Travel Plus, Owen Sound; Terri Cole, Goliger’s Travel and lounge chairs with beverage service. Plus, Cambridge; Patti Dougan, Goliger’s Travel Plus, Waterloo; Brigette Next to the pools, there is also direct Gingerich, Goliger’s Travel Plus, Waterloo; Penny Huges, Goliger’s Travel access to the hotel’s reserved beach area. Plus, Waterloo; Lorie Hough, Goliger’s Travel Plus, Waterloo; Mark Hough, The Riu Palace Paradise Island has Goliger’s Travel Plus, Waterloo; Sarah Robinson, TravelOnly, Brantford; five restaurants. The main restaurant Maria Misrendino, TravelPoint, Stouffville; Dorothea Cararra, TravelPoint, has a breakfast buffet with show cook- Stouffville; Karolina Fernandes, The Romance Concierge, Ottawa; Dawn ing stations, as well as dinners featuring Michelle Stevens, The Travel Agent Next Door, Toronto. The agents were international and local specialties. There hosted by Robert Smith, business development manager, Eastern Ontario, is a daily barbecue station next to the Unique Vacations Canada. pool and four à la carte restaurants – the Japanese “Tengoku,” the steakhouse “Bahamas,” the fusion cuisine of “Krystal” and “Chutney,” with Indian specialties. KARISMA NAMES TRAVELBRANDS AS PREFERRED PARTNER Guests will also be able to enjoy snacks and aperitifs at the hotel’s three bars, as Karisma Hotels & Resorts has named With November’s promotion, well as at “Capuchino,” the pastry and TravelBrands as its Preferred Partner for TravelBrands’s clients will receive sav- ice cream shop. If they want to enjoy a the month of November. ings up to 44% off plus up to $1,250 in special evening for two, the resort offers The Karisma Preferred Partner resort credits. Resort credits can be used the option of a romantic dinner on the program goal is to highlight a different towards services such as a couples sky beach upon request. partner each month, offering a variety massage or romantic candlelight dinners. Entertainment programs offer shows of special activities to drive excitement These offers are available for clients and live music, as well as leisure and and motivation, while providing training when booking by Nov. 30 for travel sports activities. Guests also have the on Karisma Hotels & Resorts and the through April 30, 2018. option of going to the gym or practicing Gourmet Inclusive Experience. The promotion is only available for beach volleyball, windsurfing, snor- Partners that are chosen to partici- new bookings with a minimum stay of kelling and kayaking near the hotel. pate enjoy a range of benefits, including three nights – valid at El Dorado Spa To relax, guests have the Renova Spa, training support, sales incentives and Resorts, Azul Beach Resort Riviera Maya, which has a sauna, Jacuzzi and beauty assistance, weekly contests, web, social Generations Riviera Maya. Valid for treatments. media, and press exposure. groups and FIT bookings. →www.riu.com →www.travelbrands.com, www.karismahotels
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1116PG16.indd 16 11/13/2017 3:22:25 PM ROOFTOP INFINITY POOL INCLUDED
Adults-Only Suites Butler Service Rainfall Showers Balconies With Hot Tubs Hydrotherapy Circuit Private Transfers* VIP Check-In
SAVE UP TO 50% — BOOK BY NOVEMBER 30, 2017
CONTACT YOUR PREFERRED TOUR OPERATOR OR 800.720.0051 | HYATT.COM
ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORTS IN CANCUN | LOS CABOS | MONTEGO BAY | PUERTO VALLARTA
*Savings up to 50% off of the published rate. Off er valid for new bookings only made through November 30, 2017 for travel through December 20, 2019. Savings may vary by date. Blackout dates may apply. Off er may be changed or withdrawn at any time. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Minimum 4 night stay required for private round-trip airport transfers. Hyatt Zilara™ and Hyatt Ziva™ trademarks and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation or its affi liates. ©2017 Hyatt Corporation. ©2017 Playa Hotels & Resorts, an authorized operator and owner of Hyatt Zilara™ and Hyatt Ziva™ resorts in Jamaica and Mexico. All rights reserved. HZVC-TQZ-TC-NOV162017
1116PG17.indd 17 11/13/2017 3:32:52 PM FAMS click here for digital extras {Send Submissions to [email protected]}
Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi. For further details, visit www. The cost, from Toronto, is $459 per quality-travel.ca/destinations/Spain/ person plus taxes based on twin sharing Explore ; email: FamTrips@quality- occupancy (CAS Agents get promotional travel.ca ; or call 416-216-0109 or discounts). The price includes round-trip 1-888-644-5623, ext 4109. E U R O P E international airfare from Toronto, four- →www.quality-travel.ca/destinations/ Nov. 29–Dec. 5 and five-star hotel accommodations with Spain/Explore Contiki is hosting an open-age daily breakfast, meals as per itinerary, trade fam from Nov. 29 to Dec. 5 hotel transfers and sightseeing tour with offering agents of all ages an oppor- English speaking guide. G ADVENTURES tunity to frolic in the European Agents who wish to depart from Spring 2018 fams winter wonderland. The six-night other Canadian cities can contact G Adventures has unveiled its trip will journey through the heart of Royal Scenic to find their options and lineup of spring 2018 Canadian Europe’s treasured winter markets, fares. Send all inquiries to catherine. agent fam trips. starting in Amsterdam and capping [email protected] . Agents have the opportunity to off in Munich. Space is limited. Registration dead- explore Sri Lanka, Croatia, South To be eligible, agents must line: Nov. 20. Africa, Zimbabwe, and Peru with the complete the mandatory training travel company. modules on its Contiki U E-learning The trips are eight to 11 days Training courses. International JORDAN, ISRAEL in length and depart in April and airfare is not included, however twin- Jan. 21-30, 2018 May 2018. All fams are priced from share hotel accommodation, meals Sunworld Tours is inviting travel agents $299 to $799 per person, land only, including daily breakfast and some and companions on a fam to Israel and and are available to Canadian travel dinners, an experienced Contiki crew, Jordan out of Toronto. The rate for an agents only. sightseeing of all major cities, and agent is US$1,199 and the companion The lineup includes: Sri Lanka select Free Time activities will all be rate is US$1,999. Rates include round- Express, nine days, $299, departing part of the festive experience. trip airfare out of Toronto, guided sight- April 8; Explore Kruger & Victoria To apply, agents are required in seeing, hotel accommodations, breakfast Falls, 10 days, $799, departing April 100 words or less tell how they plan and dinner daily, and an English-speak- 13; Local Living Croatia – Southern to increase their Contiki sales after ing guide. Contact Sunworld Tours at Dalmatia, eight days, $499, departing completing this fam, as well as indi- 1-800-461-6854 or 403-245-9181 or email May 11; Machu Picchu & the Amazon, cate how many Contiki passengers [email protected] . 11 days, $699, departing May 17. they have sold in 2016 and 2017, at →www.sunworldtours.com Interested agents can contact their [email protected] by Oct. 16. local Global Purpose Specialist for →www.contiki.com more information: Sean Russo (seanr@ SPAIN gadventures.com) – Southwestern January, February, March dates Ontario; Justin Wegiel (justinw@ UNITED ARAB EMIRATES Quality Travel, a division of UNIGLOBE gadventures.com) – Greater Toronto Dec. 2 Enterprise Travel, in cooperation with Area; Erin Buttler (erinb@gadventures. RSVP deadline: Nov. 20 TRAPSATUR (Spain), is hosting a series of com) – BC, Yukon, Northwest Terri- Royal Scenic is hosting a UAE 2018 week-long fam trips to Spain designed tories & Nunavut; Karly Cook (kcook@ (United Arab Emirates) fam trip in for Canadian agents, visiting Madrid, gadventures.com) – Southern BC & The cooperation with Air Canada and Andalucia and Costa del Sol. The dates Island; Ashley Jean (ashleyj@gadven Dubai Tourism Board. are Jan. 14, 28, Feb. 11, 25, and March 4 tures.com) – Eastern Canada; Joanne The trip, for full-time agents, and 11. The land-only cost is 399 euros for Fillion ([email protected]) – starts on Dec. 2 for seven days and agents, 449 euros for companions, with Manitoba & Saskatchewan; Gary five nights. The itinerary covers a single supplement fee of 205 euros. Armstrong (garmstrong@gadventures. the best of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, This includes superior first-class com) – Alberta; Ernie Balint (ebalint@ including such highlights as Jumeirah hotels, motor coach transportation, gadventures) – Eastern Ontario. Mosque, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Creek, tour leader and sightseeing tours. Applications can be submitted Dubai Museum, Gold Souk in Dubai, Not included: air, visa, insurance and until Nov. 30 at: and Grand Mosque, Yas Island, and personal items. →www.cadfams.com
18 travelcourier.ca | november 16, 2017
1116PG18.indd 18 11/13/2017 2:59:24 PM DESTINATION | AFRICA click here for digital extras
GOWAY OFFERS SAVINGS ON THE SHONGOLOLO EXPRESS
Goway Travel is offering SOUTH AFRICAN AIRWAYS a 10% discount on its TOUTS AFRICA’S WILD SIDE 15-day Shongololo Good Hope train journey, plus It’s easy to have a wild time in south- two free nights hotel ern Africa. David Chorley, director accommodation. of sales development – Canada for Priced from $7,071 South African Airways, told a recent per person in a gold Toronto gathering that southern Africa cabin, the trip is a comprehensive tour of South Africa which includes all of the great in general offers endless opportunities sights such as Cape Town, the Garden Route, Zululand, Swaziland, the Drakensberg to spot wildlife, ranging from instantly Mountains, and Kruger National Park. A complimentary pre-night in Cape Town, as recognizable creatures to “very unique well as a post-night in Pretoria, is included in the special. animal species in Madagascar. “The Shongololo Express already offers excellent value for money considering it “The game-viewing is the best in includes accommodation, transportation, sightseeing and two meals a day,” said Kirsty the world,” he said of a region that offers Perring, acting general manager AFRICAExperts. “It’s like cruising Africa, by rail.” safaris that can provide the sightings The Shongololo Express is a unique train safari, and one of the most convenient of lions, elephants, rhinos and a host of ways of seeing Southern Africa. It travels between destinations at night, allowing for other creatures. exploration during the day. The recently refurbished train has two cabin categories, Chorley said his carrier has a “very Gold and Emerald, both with ensuite. Breakfast and dinner are prepared on board good working relationship with Air and served daily in the restaurant, with lunches at guests’ own expense. Off-rail Canada,” codesharing with it. excursions take place every day. South African Airways’ network features dozens of countries and the carrier is particularly prominent in which came into effect in June. Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO southern Africa, he noted. Among its The e-visa is processed and issued Tewolde GebreMariam remarked, destinations are New York, Washington, online on a single web page, where “Ethiopia, the oldest independent civiliza- London and Munich. applicants apply, pay and secure their tion in Africa and one of the oldest in the →www.flysaa.com entry visa online. Once the online world, is endowed with historical places, application is approved, applicants will natural beauty, colourful and diverse receive an email authorizing them to cultural activities, and various endemic E-VISA AVAILABLE FOR travel to Ethiopia, and they will get their wild animals which are of great interest ETHIOPIA VISITS passport stamped with the visa upon to international tourists. However, we arrival in Addis Ababa. have not made best use of these natural Ethiopian Immigration and Nationality The full start of the online visa resources to attract large number of tour- Affairs, in collaboration with Ethiopian application and issuance system will ists. To this effect, this project is part of a Airlines, has finalized preparations promote tourism, trade and investment new national initiative to transform the of the initial phase of an e-visa service to the country and save time, energy and tourism sector in the country.” for international visitors to Ethiopia, cost for travellers to Ethiopia. →www.ethiopianairlines.ca
6287+$)5,&$6$03/(5 6$9($1(;75$$1'*(7$)5((:,1(/$1'67285 GD\V Airport transfers, 14 nights accommodation, 14 breakfasts and 4 dinners, hotel porterage, visit to Kruger National Park, English speaking guide. Request our Travel Planner Call Toll Free or visit ZZZJRZD\FRP *Per person, twin. Taxes included. Valid for travel 5 Aug’18. Other dates available. Subject to availability. Airfare not included. TICO#1543989. 3284 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON.
november 16, 2017 | travelcourier.ca 19
1116PG19.indd 19 11/13/2017 2:28:29 PM DESTINATION | HAWAII & SOUTH PACIFIC
GRAND WAILEA CELEBRATES HUMUHUMU REOPENING
Maui’s Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, is celebrating the completion of a renovation to its signature restaurant Humuhumunukunukuapua’a, now dubbed Humuhumu. Representing the latest phase of a recent US$70-million resort refresh, Humuhumu officially celebrated its reopening in February with a grand charity event for approximately 200 The event debuted Humuhumu’s refreshed design – the restaurant sits atop a attendees in support of the local Boys fresh water lagoon, while native Ohia woods form the restaurant’s modern Hawaiian & Girls Club of Maui. details, which represent a subtle nod to ocean themes including voyaging. A Polyne- sian thatch-roof completes the design. During the event, managing director Tom Donovan presented a cheque for FLIGHT TOUR AWARDS FOR US$20,000 to the Boys & Girls Club of Maui. The funds were generated through TREE PLANTING SPONSORS ticket sales to the event, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to the charity. Humuhumu is open nightly for dinner from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., serving Chef Mike Paradise Helicopters is now offering Lofaro’s Hawaii Seasonal Cuisine. Reservations are recommended. visitors the opportunity to play an active →www.grandwailea.com role in the reforestation of Hawaii’s native trees, while experiencing some of the best sights and heli-landing locations FISHING FOR HERITAGE CULTURE ON NEW TOUR in the Islands. Through the Hawaiian Legacy Reforestation Initiative, guests A new guided Heeia Fishpond Exploration tour by Holokai Adventures offers an can choose from a menu of nearly 20 authentic, off-the-beaten-path Hawaiian cultural activity. The adventure begins with available tour options in return for their lessons on the basics of kayaking and ocean safety before moving to the water, where sponsorship of Koa Legacy Trees. participants learn about the modern-day restoration and historic cultural signifi- For example, guests who sponsor cance of early Hawaiian fishponds. Guides discuss the importance of fishponds to the planting of seven Koa Legacy Trees the sustainable food gathering efforts of early Hawaiians and how visitors can apply will receive a half-hour Diamond Head a similar approach to current times. Scenic tour from Paradise Helicopters, →www.holokaiadventures.com departing from its new Kalaeloa Airport base operation near the Ko Olina Resort area on Oahu. Other sponsorship reward RITZ-CARLTON RESIDENCES The “Year of Celebrations” anniver- options include North Shore tours, WAIKIKI BEACH MARKS sary package is available for guests stay- volcano and waterfall adventures on FIRST ANNIVERSARY ing in one-bedroom suites and includes a the island of Hawaii, and a circle-island special rate when reserving a minimum tour of Lanai. The Ritz-Carlton Residences Waikiki of two nights. Package highlights include →www.paradisecopters.com Beach is celebrating one year since a bottle of Barons de Rothschild Ritz opening, ushering in a new era of Cuvée champagne, daily à la carte break- luxury travel to the Hawaiian Islands. fast at BLT Market, a sunset sail on the In celebration, the resort is offering Pacific, and two commemorative cham- a commemorative vacation package pagne flutes from Tiffany & Co. Package showcasing its stylish suites and unsur- rates start at US$781 per night. passed amenities. →www.ritzcarlton.com/waikiki
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1116PG20.indd 20 11/13/2017 2:29:03 PM CRUISING click here for digital extras
HAL LAUNCHES ‘BEST PRICE GUARANTEE’
Holland America Line (HAL) is making sure that guests who pre-book the cruise line’s EXC Tours have the lowest rates through a new Best Price Guarantee ROYAL CARIBBEAN program. CELEBRATES SPECTRUM Best Price Guarantee is available on KEEL-LAYING all ships and all itineraries except Asia cruises and promises that if a guest finds Nov. 9 marked an important milestone a comparable shore excursion elsewhere in the development of Royal Caribbean’s at a lower price, Holland America will newest ship, Spectrum of the Seas, provide an on-board credit of 110% of the when its keel was lowered into place at price difference. the Neptun Werft shipyard in Rostock, If a guest pre-books a Holland America EXC Tour (shore excursion) and then finds Germany. an equivalent tour that offers the same amenities and experiences, including date, The keel-laying signifies the begin- time, duration, transportation, and meals, then a request easily can be submitted ning of the ship’s physical construction. through an online form up to seven days before cruise departure. Guests will be During the ceremony, a 620-ton block notified within two days of submission if the tour meets the requirements for Best measuring 18 x 37 metres was lifted into Price Guarantee. the building dock with an 800-ton crane. Numbering more than 4,100 tours in nearly 550 ports, Holland America Line’s Set to debut in 2019, Spectrum will EXC Tours are carefully crafted to ensure travellers are able to deeply connect with be the next evolution of the cruise the people and places visited during each cruise. line’s groundbreaking and high-tech →www.hollandamerica.com Quantum class of ships placing the ship in a new class of her own called the Quantum Ultra. The ship will specific- ally be designed for guests in China and SILVERSEA ROLLS OUT FREE SHORE EXCURSIONS the AsiaPacific region, and will feature cutting-edge and unprecedented experi- Silversea Cruises has launched a lim- On select 2018 voyages of the all- ences and amenities. ited-time offer of free shore excursions suite, butler-serviced Silver Wind and →www.RoyalCaribbean.com on sailings to the Caribbean. Silver Muse, guests may enrich their Caribbean cruise experience with a free shore excursion in every port of call. NORWEGIAN JEWEL TO SPEND SECOND SEASON ‘DOWN UNDER’ Whether it’s exploring Antigua’s historic English Harbor and Nelson’s Dockyard, a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has opened for sale the line’s 2018/2019 Australia and UNESCO World Heritage Site, spotting New Zealand cruises aboard Norwegian Jewel. celebrity hideaways in the Grenadines Following an expansive refurbishment, Norwegian Jewel will spend a second while sailing on a Catamaran, or admir- season Down Under cruising a series of itineraries taking in the best of Australia, ing the scenic white-sand beaches of including Melbourne, Cairns, Hobart; and New Zealand, including Milford Sound, Grand Turk on horseback, these small- Wellington and Tauranga, as well as itineraries to the South Pacific, Southeast Asia, group excursions uncover a destination’s and a transpacific voyage from Vancouver to Tokyo (Yokohama). history, culture and natural wonders in In late October 2018, Jewel will undergo a three-week dry-dock enhancement in an intimate, authentic way. Singapore as part of the Norwegian Edge multi-million dollar revitalization program. The promotion is available for new It will emerge a nearly new ship for its Australian season with bow to stern refresh- bookings made through Nov. 30 and may ments and a new look across many of the ship’s public spaces. be combined with a US$199 round-trip Highlights for the new 2018/19 season include a 19-day transpacific journey from economy air offer available on select Vancouver to Tokyo (Yokohama) via Alaska and Russia; a 19-day journey to Australia Caribbean sailings from dozens of gate- from Singapore with stops in Bali and Komodo Island; a new 13-day South Pacific way cities in Canada and the US. itinerary and – back by popular demand – a series of sailings in and around Australia →www.silversea.com/exclusive-offers/ and New Zealand homeporting from Sydney, including a seven-day round-trip itiner- caribbean-air-promo-ft.htm ary featuring calls in Tasmania just before the holidays in mid-December. →www.ncl.com
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1116PG21.indd 21 11/13/2017 3:23:38 PM WEST
Air New Zealand recently held an event at the Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art in Vancouver to AGENT CONTEST BY OOE celebrate 10 years of FOR ANTARCTICA TRIP operating flights to YVR. In attendance December marks the 10th birthday were (l-r) Vicky Ho, at One Ocean Expeditions, and general manager of to celebrate, OOE has launched a Royal Scenic Holidays two-month agent incentive with the in Richmond; Jerry opportunity to win a US$40,000 trip Lo, director of Royal Scenic; Maureen Kam, Air New Zealand country to Antarctica. Each time an agent manager for Canada; Joe Chan, president of Pacita Travel Worldwide; books a passenger berth on any OOE and Eleanor Chan, VP of Pacita Travel. voyage to Antarctica, the Arctic or Canada’s East Coast, they will be entered into a draw to win a trip to Antarctica aboard RCGS Resolute – the newest addition to the fleet. The McBARGE GETS NEW LIFE AS DEEP SEA MUSEUM prize includes accommodation in a twin cabin, a pre- and post-voyage A vestige of the original Vancouver ’86 Expo is now in the works for a return to hotel stay in Ushuaia and inter- duty as an exhibition venue. A floating barge that was once used as a McDonald’s national airfares. The draw will take restaurant has been recovered from storage and is being redeveloped for use as place on Jan. 8, 2018. a deep sea museum. The Deep Discovery Centre will be housed in the so-called →www.oneoceanexpeditions.com McBarge, which was anchored in False Creek during the 1986 Expo. The Discovery Centre will showcase deep sea artifacts, submersibles and a movie theatre. Opening details, plus a website, are yet to be announced. BC
LATE FALL TO EARLY SPRING for two, breakfast in the hotel restau- RED MTN. CHANGES DEAL AT HARRISON LAKE rant for two, free use of hot tubs and FUELED BY CROWD FUNDING sauna, access to the public springs Special package rates for visits to the pool and free WiFi. The rates are A trend toward ski resort buyouts Harrison Lake Hotel are now available $69 during the week, and $89 Fridays and consolidations by conglomerates for stays until March 15, 2018. The pack- and Saturdays. is being bucked by Red Mountain age includes one night accommodation →[email protected] Resort in eastern BC, which is now operating a crowd funding campaign to raise revenues in order to preserve US its independence. To date, it has raised over $1 million, with the incentive of equity ownership driving the contri- AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION HOTEL OPENS IN SAN DIEGO butions. The crowd funding campaign is called “Fight the Man. Own The This month marks the opening of the Hotel Republic San Diego, which transitions Mountain.” It has so far rendered a to downtown’s only independently owned hotel within the Marriott International newly renovated mountainside lodge. group of Autograph Collection Hotels. Formerly the Renaissance and W San Diego, Also, an investor is building a new the new 19-storey, 258-room property has an ambience of casual sophistication. Its luxury boutique hotel, called The Josie, guest rooms range from a presidential suite to city/view king rooms and doubles. at the mountain base. Three distinct dining experiences are offered within the hotel: Topside Terrace →www.redresort.com Kitchen & Bar, Trade cocktail bar and restaurant, and the Patio Marketplace. →http://hotelrepublicsd.com
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1116PG22.indd 22 11/13/2017 2:51:47 PM INCENTIVES click here for digital extras
TRAVELBRANDS GLOBUS AMRESORTS
TravelBrands is giving agents the For every 2018 booking made with brands AMResorts is celebrating the opportunity to earn more money Globus, Cosmos or Monograms to Britain, three-year anniversary and 30,000 through their bookings. Agents Ireland or Italy between Nov. 1 and 30, the registered agent milestone for who book hotel stays or Travel company will award the agent with a $25 AMRewards, the hotel company’s Genie packages will receive 3% Visa gift card for every two clients booked travel agent loyalty program. To extra bonus commission. For any and deposited. And at the end of the month, celebrate, AMRewards has launched car rental bookings made, agents one lucky agent will be drawn at random a special promotion through to will receive 15% commission. The to win a seven-day Monograms vacation the end of 2017. The “AMRewards offer is valid on new bookings package for two to London and Dublin, Turns 3” promotion allows regis- made for travel at any time. The including accommodation, sightseeing, tered agents the opportunity to win bonus commission will be added to transportation between the cities and the 3,000 bonus points per day through the agents’ file after the promotion services of a Monograms Local Host in each Dec. 22 when they enter bookings has ended. Agents can earn their city. To receive your gift card and to qualify for any of AMResorts’ Mexico prop- commission by booking at: to win the Monograms vacation package, erties. Bookings must be a min- →www.travelbrandsaccess.com you must email your booking/invoice num- imum of three nights and are valid ber to [email protected] by Dec. 1. for travel through April 30, 2018. For full details, visit: →www.AMRewards.com →www.agentlingo.ca
CAREERS | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES | BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
$$$$$$$$$$ Vice President, Commercial SENIOR CORPORATE TRAVEL AGENT G Adventures, the world’s largest privately owned small group WEST END / NORTH TORONTO adventure tour operator is seeking Our client, one of the leading Sports Travel Management Companies is looking for a a Vice President, Commercial. As Senior Corporate Travel Agent. The Company is an industry leader in the Sports Travel Market, providing the Vice President, Commercial travel management for some of North America’s elite sports teams and organizations. you will report directly to the The suitable candidate will bring their travel industry experience and ability to provide excellent Founder of the business and will customer service to clients. Some duties are: • Proficient in Native Sabre & Microsoft products be based at our Head Office in (Word, Excel & Outlook) • Experience in all aspects of Corporate Travel (booking & ticketing) • Excellent Toronto, Canada. written and verbal program • Good understanding of Corporate Travel concepts • Must have a minimum of FIVE years experience in a corporate agency setting (GDS). Salary: C$210,000 – 240,000 Please submit resume to: What Company Provides: • A fun working environment with a great client base • Full benefits [email protected] package including short/long term disability • Above average pay, monthly phone allowance, and much more. $$$$$$$$$$ BILINGUAL (FRENCH) CORPORATE & LEISURE AGENTS OTTAWA, ONTARIO Our client is looking for bright experienced Bilingual (French) Corporate & Leisure Agents min. two-three years experience for their business office – the successful candidates will have Native Sabre, knowledge of Domestic and trans-border and international travel destinations, experience with corporate car & hotel bookings, working knowledge of industry procedure for exchanges and ticket handling – should have MS Office knowledge and be TICO certified – These positions require various shifts – Monday to Friday – weekend off – excellent company benefits and much more. For additional & confidential interviews please call Christine Zawadzki @ CZ & Associates Tel: (416) 922-6796 [email protected] www.czandassociates.com
To advertise: classifi[email protected] november 16, 2017 | travelcourier.ca 23
1116PG23.indd 23 11/13/2017 3:26:58 PM HOTEL FLIGHT PACKAGES CAR RENTAL
™ We give you Access to the world! TRANSFERS TOUR ATTRACTIONS CRUISE Sunshine on Sale Free Nights & Free Breakfast for 2
DYNAMIC PRICES INCLUDE: 7-NIGHT HOTEL ACCOMMODATION • ROUNDTRIP AIRFARE
OAHU $ MAUI $ KAUAI $ DEPARTING TORONTO 2229 DEPARTING VANCOUVER 2409 DEPARTING CALGARY 3269 Hyatt Regency Waikiki CDN/pp Hyatt Regency Maui CDN/pp Grand Hyatt Kauai CDN/pp Beach Resort & Spa Taxes included Resort & Spa +++++ Taxes included Resort & Spa ++++++ Taxes included Dec 8-15/17 Dec 8-15/17 Dec 8-15/17 +++++ Flights : United Airlines SOS Partial Ocean View King – BP for 2 Flights: Air Canada SOS Standard View Room 1 King Bed Flights : United Airlines SOS Waikiki City View Room – BP for 2 – BP for 2 Dynamic pricing is per person based on double occupancy and is valid for travel from December 8 to December 15/17.. Prices and availability are subject to change without prior notification, were available on November 8/17 and already reflect the free night. Black-out dates and restrictions apply. Surcharges may apply. Hotel taxes are included in the dynamic pricing. Resort fee in the amount of $35 USD plus tax per room, per night is payable locally. Not included: transfers or car rental. EP = European plan; BP = Breakfast plan. *Sunshine on sale offer : 5th Night free at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa and the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, 4th Night free at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and free buffet breakfast for 2 daily. No meal substitutions allowed. Value of breakfast buffet cannot be exchanged for cash value. 2515590 Ontario Inc – d.b.a © 2017 TravelBrands Inc., B.C. Reg. # 3597. Ont. Reg. # 50012702 Quebec permit holder # 703 344, 5450 Explorer Drive, Suite 300, Mississauga, ON L4W 5N1. Visit travelbrandsaccess.com for full terms & conditions. [ DC37489 ] [ DC37489
BOOK TODAY WITH Your all-in-one Access to the World!™ Book. Collect Points. Join us on Facebook Search for “Your TravelBrands Reward Yourself Today! Visit TravelBrandsAccess.com BDM” on Facebook or call 1-844-5-TBRAND 827263
1116PG24.indd 24 11/13/2017 2:56:51 PM FOR JOB SEEKERS For over 15 years, Travelbestjobs.com, along with the Travel Best Jobs section of Travel Courier magazine, has been a renowned market resource for careers, professional services, and business opportunities. Now, the successful travel industry job board has been completely redesigned to be: • More responsive • More user-friendly • Shareable via social media • Now includes easy bookmarking and job alerts • Job seekers can now create their own user dashboard and upload their resume to the site!
FOR EMPLOYERS Our unique service for those looking to hire qualified candidates in the travel and tourism sector includes: • Online listings on travelbestjobs.com that are GUARANTEED to reach a wide audience of job seekers • Job postings remain online for up to four weeks • Print ad in the Travel Best Jobs section of Travel Courier magazine • Postings on social media
VISIT THE NEW TRAVELBESTJOBS.COM TODAY!
Have a question, or a custom ad package request? Contact Daniel McDonald at: 416-968-7252 ext. 415 Email: [email protected]
TRAVEL BEST JOBS
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