Travel Courier

June 07, 2018

To the MAX with Sunwing

+ HAWAII & MEXICO

00607607 TTCC CCOVEROVER Sunwing.inddSunwing.indd 1 66/5/2018/5/2018 10:30:1210:30:12 AAMM Noteworthy CONTENTS

REGULAR FEATURES

8 cover story New possibilities abound for Sunwing

Kissimmee celebrates the value of tourism 12 air Airlines are ﬂ ying high

o highlight the US$6 billion economic impact of the 19 trade incentives TOsceola County tourism industry in 2017, Experience Lots on offer from suppliers this week Kissimmee is thanking tourists during its annual Value of Tourism campaign. Experience Kissimmee’s president and CEO, DT Minich said, “A vacation to Kissimmee means an endless supply of DESTINATIONS & FEATURES sunshine and incredible experiences for visitors. But it also means tangible benefits to Osceola County residents.” Minich said that, “With 8.6 million overnight visitors 14 mexico contributing to the Tourist Development Tax (TDT) in Get the latest product news 2017, the tourism industry enhances the lives of thousands of Osceola County residents, every day. So, we’re excited to share this information with the community, 16 hawaii while showing appreciation for our valuable visitors.” Check out the latest news from the In 2017, Osceola County’s travel and tourism industry Hawaiian Islands saw visitor spending reach US$3.8 billion, provided 45,000 jobs ranging from entry-level to high-level management 18 western canada positions, and saved each household $900 a year in taxes. There’s lots happening in Canada’s West “Spending by tourists and the travel industry’s con- this week tinued growth directly benefits the local community,” said Minich. “The taxes collected on every Twistee Treat sold, hotel room booked, kayak rented, and dollar spent in Osceola County, saves every residence annually enough DEPARTMENTS money to visit Walt Disney World Resort 14 times or rent a vacation home for four staycation weekends.” →www.experiencekissimmee.com/impact . 19 careers professional services cover photo/ GREG COATES business opportunities

The travel industry’s most sought-after source of innovation, knowledge and solutions, bringing the world to Canada and Canada to the world.

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0607PG02.indd 2 6/4/2018 2:47:55 PM Benefit from the A321’s state-of- the-art cabin design because of enhanced comfort, a markedly wider aisle for faster boarding, and easier cabin movement.

First A321neo from TORONTO to the AZORES

5:30

>> Unique Airbus technologies allow TORONTO for the A321 to offer the lowest fuel This winter we will have 4 burn, emissions and noise weekly direct connections to footprint in its class. Ponta Delgada, Azores, with Visit azoresairlines.pt the new Airbus A321 neo for further information

0607PG03.indd 3 6/4/2018 3:44:15 PM READY FOR TAKEOFF Azores Airlines to add new aircraft on Toronto route, promotes stopover program

ann ruppenstein

Azores Airlines hopes to do with the Azores – Portugal’s nine volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean – the same as Icelandair has done with Iceland.

With a hub in Ponta Delgada, Gavin Eccles, chief commercial officer of Azores Airlines, plans to position a stopover in the archipelago, as a way for travellers to experience two unique destinations for the price of one. “A Canadian can be in Europe in five Gavin Eccles, chief commercial officer, Azores Airlines and William Delgado, Visit hours,” he told a recent Toronto gather- Portugal’s country manager for Canada ing presented by Azores Airlines and the Portugal National Tourist Office. “We are offering clients the “We’re 76 years old, and I think that’s a fantastic achievement ability to discover a part of the world that they may not nor- for an airline. And if I look at Canada, if I look at 2013 to 2017, mally think about going to… What Icelandair did with Iceland we’ve grown 63% in the amount of seats we’ve offered direct is what I’m trying to do with Azores and Azores Airlines… We from Canada to Portugal.” need to educate people that there is an alternate way to get to Describing it as Portugal’s oldest newest airline, he says the mainland.” agents drive 40% of the business for Azores Airlines, which With five weekly flights from YYZ this summer, he says boasts a 6% commission rate, and is part of the SATA group. travellers can spend a few hours or several nights in the Azores “Travel agents are what keeps me going, keeps my business before connecting on to Porto, Lisbon, Madeira, London, going, and we need you,” he said, adding that the Canadian Frankfurt, Cape Verde, and Gran Canaria. market is vital for the airline. “We also believe in supporting “Some people think we only touch Azores, that’s not fair. those who work with us. We believe passionately in upfront We’re a Portuguese airline. We go on from Azores,” he said. continued on page 6

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0607PG04-7.indd 4 6/4/2018 2:56:50 PM #1to the Sun

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9Top-rated resorts and excursions 9Award-winning service 9With you every step of the way

0607PG04-7.indd 5 6/4/2018 2:56:54 PM NEWS

continued from page 4 commission. You are our sales force. You are selling me, why would I not want to reward you?” This summer will see four weekly flights to PDL and one to TER from YYZ, as well as weekly service from YUL to PDL. “Obviously in the last two years, the North American market to Portugal has been exponential. The Canadian tourist is really defining Lisbon and Porto as some of the best cities in the world. Why would you fly direct? Lisbon is unique so let’s go via somewhere else that is unique,” he said, explaining that their target guest isn’t a business traveller. “What I hope to find is that good pre- mium leisure customer that isn’t rushing to Lisbon. They are open to a couple of days to take some time out, and just kind of discover someplace that is quite unique.” For winter, the airline will be flying one of its new Airbus A321neo on the Toronto route, with 170 seats in economy in a three by three configuration and 16 in business class with a two and two configuration as a single aisle airplane. “This is a fantastic machine,” he said. “It’s a very comfortable, brand new innovative flight experience… it brings confidence that we’re coming to Toronto with a new product.” Some selling points for the airline are that baggage, pre-seat selection and food and beverages are included in the ticket price. → www.azoresairlines.pt/en tc Since the arrival of the Carnival Horizon in North America in late May, many agents from Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada have had the opportunity to visit and tour the new ship in either Halifax or New York City. Feedback has been very positive. Horizon will be in New York for the summer before repositioning to Miami in September.

WESTJET THANKS TRAVEL AGENTS

With a potential labour action now Commission can now be earned on resolved, WestJet is offering travel all Econo fares for new air-only bookings Azores Airlines will introduce a new agents 4% commission on all domestic made between June 1 and June 30 for travel Airbus A321neo on its Toronto route Econo fares to thank its partners for within Canada from June 1 to July 31. this winter. their support. → www.westjettravelagents.com

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0607PG04-7.indd 6 6/4/2018 2:56:55 PM click here NEWS for digital extras

TOURISM NEW ZEALAND AGENTS CAN WIN A CRUISE FOR FOUR WITH AVALON OFFERS $500 FAM TRIP CREDIT The Globus family of brands is challenging travel agents to get active selling Tourism New Zealand is inviting Avalon Active Discovery Cruises for a agents to discover New Zealand with chance to win a free cruise. its Explore PLUS independent fam The agent selling the most 2019 program. passengers between May 22 and Aug. 31 This self-serve tool allows agents to will win an Active Discovery Cruise for utilize more than 1,000 pre-approved four on his or her choice on the Danube, discounts on land tours, activities, Rhine or Rhone River in 2019. And, transportation and accommodations Avalon will track all sales. throughout New Zealand, as well as “This is a great reason to introduce The concept has proven so popular exclusive agent airfares on four partner your clients to our concept of Active that Avalon has expanded the program airlines, starting at $500 round trip. Discovery,” says Kim Clarke, director of to include the Danube, Rhine and And, Tourism New Zealand is incen- sales for the Globus family of brands, Rhone Rivers next year and added an tivizing agents even further with a special who points out that on these cruises, on-board Adventure Host. Plus, for the $500 trip credit available to the first 50 clients have the choice each day of an first time, Avalon is making it easier agents to book their independent fam by Active shore excursion such as a guided to explore ashore independently by Aug. 12 for travel from Sept. 1 to Nov. 19. biking tour, a Discovery excursion which including a self-guided tour App and Participating airlines include Air New could be a food tour or very fun and the free use of more bikes (16 per ship) Zealand, American Airlines, Hawaiian informal painting classes, or a Classic or Nordic walking poles – and, on Airlines, and Fiji Airways. walking tour with a historic cultural request, even a picnic prepared by the “We recognize agents have limited theme. Even better, clients don’t have to ship’s culinary team. time, and so we developed a program choose what they want to do each day → www.agentlingo.ca that lets them travel when they want, until they wake up that morning. the way they want, and with whom they want,” said Michelle Rosenberg, Tourism New Zealand’s senior manager of Trade To apply for the Explore PLUS pro- their fam. To complete the New Zealand Partnerships, North America. “The program travel agents must first complete Specialist Program or to learn more gram is very flexible and allows agents the 100% Pure New Zealand Specialist about the Explore PLUS independent to design their very own New Zealand Program at the Bronze levels. Agent will FAM, visit: experience.” earn Gold level status by completing → www.traveltrade.newzealand.com

CONTIKI NAMES BERRY NEW CANADIAN PRESIDENT

Contiki has named Sheralyn Having been a core member championing the life- pleasure of collaborating Berry its new Canadian of the Contiki Canada executive changing benefits of travel with our trade partners president. team for the past eight years, experiences to young adven- to help make their clients’ most recently as vice-president turers for more than 19 years. dreams come true. In my of sales, Berry will use her She has travelled to more new role, I will continue our expertise promoting travel than 60 countries on all seven company’s dedication to the to the millennial audience continents. Having been at trade, while also increas- to continue highlighting the Contiki Canada for eight ing our brand footprint Contiki experience. According years, first serving as director among consumers. This is to officials, her experience of sales and then vice-presi- an exciting time for Contiki working directly with agents dent of sales, Berry enhanced as we look to make more underscores Contiki’s dedica- the brand’s relationships with #NoRegrets experiences tion to the trade. industry partners, including come true and change Berry has built a career Contiki’s loyal travel agents. young Canadians’ lives Berry in partnership management “Over the past eight through travel,” said Berry. and business development, years, I have had the → www.contiki.com

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0607PG04-7.indd 7 6/4/2018 2:57:02 PM COVER STORY | SUNWING

Captain Ron Henry First Officer Jessalyn Teed BOEING 737 MAX 8 JOINS SUNWING FLEET SUNWING TAKES PASSENGER COMFORT TO NEW HEIGHTS

story and photos by greg coates aking delivery of a new plane is always memorable, but add to this the ability to fly further and offer a better passenger experience, Tand you’ll understand why Sunwing executives are so excited to have two new Boeing 737 MAX 8’s in their fleet. The MAX 8 is both fuel-efficient and passenger-friendly. Sunwing took delivery of its first MAX 8 on May 25 from Boeing in Seattle, and the second a week later. The airline took the opportunity on its first delivery to host a group of travel industry personnel and Sunwing employees in Seattle. They were

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0607 TC cover story Sunwing.indd 8 6/4/2018 10:32:50 AM COURTESY OF SUNWING

the first to fly on the new MAX 8 as it flew a non-revenue flight from Seattle to Toronto. The two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft – identifiable by their split tip wingtips – are part of a lease agreement concluded with Air Lease Corporation in late 2014 – a $350 million deal that will see four more of the aircraft delivered by May 2019. “The 737 MAX 8 aircraft is an integral part of Sunwing’s overall expansion plans across an increasing number of both Canadian and US gateways and illustrates the evolu- tion of the company. We’re really excited. This is a big deal for us,” said Mark Williams, president of Sunwing Airlines. He added, “Sunwing may have increased in scale, however, what drove the company in the early 2000s is still central to our business today – in particular, the airline’s commitment to its passengers that when they travel with Sunwing, they travel with an award-winning airline and one of Canada’s most modern fleets.” John L. Plueger, chief executive officer and president of Air Lease Corporation, also welcomed the new aircraft, noting, “this state-of-the-art new aircraft will bring signifi- cantly expanded capability, efficiency and environmental friendliness to Sunwing’s growing network, as well as usher in a new level of customer service and experience.” The aircraft is operated by CFM International’s new LEAP-1B engines, which are both more efficient and quieter than previous engines. According to officials, the new MAX aircraft reduces fuel burn by as much as 14% compared to other 737 aircraft, allowing Sunwing to fly further distances – up to an additional range of 500 naut- ical miles. It also allows the airline to operate full flights on such routes as Vancouver to the Eastern Caribbean. In the past, the airline has had to operate this flight with as many as 14 empty seats to reduce weight and conserve fuel. The MAX 8 opens up the possibility of new routes for Sunwing, such as Vancouver-Panama or Vancouver-Costa Rica, but Williams would not disclose future plans.

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0607 TC cover story Sunwing.indd 9 6/4/2018 10:32:55 AM A next-generation aircraft, the 737 system or WiFi, but as Williams said, MAX 8 will reduce Sunwing’s carbon most passengers now travel with their footprint, using less fuel and reducing own devices and watch their own con- CO2 emissions by 20% compared to the tent. And, new for Sunwing, each seat older aircraft that it replaces. has a USB port allowing passengers to Easily, the most notable change about charge and use their personal devices the MAX 8 experience is how quiet it is – during the entire flight. The Sunwing 40% quieter than its 737 predecessors. Airlines president noted that this is Piyush Ghandi, vice-president of ﬂight The MAX 8 offers 189 passenger something that can be reassessed in operations, and Mark Williams, president, seats in a 3-3 configuration. Specially the future if need be. Sunwing Airlines designed seats – which give the feeling “I think it’s a great airplane. I’m really of more room – and mood lighting all pleased,” said Williams. “The bottom help improve the passenger experience, line is about making money, and this air- helping reduce flight fatigue. craft will allow us to make more money.” “The new seat types sit on a dia- Sunwing operates from more than phragm, feeling like you have two 30 airports across Canada to over 45 inches more leg room, even if you don’t,” sun destinations across the Caribbean, said Williams. “It’s just the way they’re Mexico and Central America. It also configured.” offers a small domestic program and One notable exclusion is the lack some service to Florida. of a built-in inflight entertainment www.sunwing.ca tc

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0607 TC cover story Sunwing.indd 10 6/4/2018 10:33:05 AM At the office or around the world. Catch our podcasts ANYWHERE ANYTIME

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0607PG11.indd 11 2018-06-04 3:31:18 PM AIR click here for digital extras

AIR CANADA

Air Canada is upbeat about the June start of WESTJET its year-round, non-stop Vancou- On May 25, WestJet connected ver-Melbourne Atlantic Canada to the City of service, which Light, with its inaugural flight will be the between Halifax Stanfield third Australian International Airport and Paris- city to see Air Charles de Gaulle Airport. Canada aircraft Melbourne “This is a historic day for WestJet touch down. as we touch down on the European The airline mainland for the first time,” said recently held a Toronto gathering to promote the service, with Air Canada’s Tim Croyle, WestJet interim execu- Marc Roy saying the carrier will use a B787 Dreamliner on the route, and tive vice-president, Commercial. labelling it an “amazing aircraft.” “This new service reinforces our The route will initially see three flights a week. confidence in Atlantic Canada Air Canada is also touting what it says will be convenient connections and our ongoing support of Nova from Toronto. Scotia’s tourism and economic Roy says the carrier has high hopes for the route, pronouncing Melbourne a development objectives outlined “great destination” and an “exciting and sophisticated city.” in its Atlantic Gateway initiative. Air Canada has already been serving Sydney and Brisbane. Paris is the latest milestone chapter in WestJet’s drive to become a truly global airline, bringing Canada to the LUFTHANSA GROUP or request a seat reservation on an world and the world to Canada.” individual basis. Meals and drinks WestJet’s daily non-stop flights This summer, Lufthansa Group passen- will continue to be served to passen- between Halifax and Paris are oper- gers will be able to book an Economy gers on board, free of charge. ated on the Boeing 737 MAX, the “Light” fare on routes to North America Lufthansa has been testing a airline’s newest, most efficient and served by Lufthansa, SWISS, Brussels Light fare since October on select guest-friendly aircraft. Airlines and Austrian Airlines. routes between Scandinavia and In other news, WestJet has again At the basic rate, the new fare is North America. Passengers can been recognized as Best Airline the least expensive option for price- buy a basic rate with carry-on in Canada and Travellers’ Choice conscious passengers travelling with luggage for flights between Sweden, winner – North America in the 2018 carry-on luggage and who do not require Denmark, Norway and select North TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards ticket flexibility. American destinations. for Airlines. For an additional fee, passengers will In 2015, the Lufthansa Group The airline was also named be allowed to add one piece of luggage Airlines introduced a Light fare the Travellers’ Choice Winner – for their European routes. The Economy, North America. WestJet various airfare options mainly remains the only airline in Canada “To be named Best Airline in Canada differ with respect to the free to win TripAdvisor’s Best Airline in by TripAdvisor two years in row is an baggage allowance, seat reserva- Canada recognition. incredible honour,” said Tim Croyle, tions, as well as the possibilities to TripAdvisor highlights the world’s WestJet interim executive vice-president, cancel or rebook flights. top carriers based on the quantity Commercial. “These three Travellers’ All fares include standard features and quality of reviews and ratings Choice awards are tremendously sig- such as carry-on luggage weighing up for airlines worldwide gathered over nificant, as they are based on authentic to 17 lbs, snacks and drinks on board, a 12-month period. WestJet received reviews from the travelling public.” fixed seat assignment at check-in, as almost 7,000 guest reviews with a →www.tripadvisor.com/TravelersChoice well as bonus and status miles. 4.04 average. Airlines →www.lufthansagroup.com

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0607PG12.indd 12 2018-06-04 1:15:45 PM ROOMS

MARRIOTT This summer, Marriott has tapped into the company’s global network Research shows consumers increasingly of thousands of local-area experts seek out enriching, local experiences including its hotel associates, as well when they travel. Now, with summer as global partners and celebrities to SEVEN STARS RESORT & SPA vacation right around the corner, recommend their favourite sites to see Marriott is rolling out local-area expert and must-do activities. Seven Stars Resort & Spa, located recommendations, bespoke categories, All recommendations and categor- on Grace Bay Beach, Providenciales, and hand-curated lists of things to do ies will feature hand-curated lists of Turks & Caicos, is giving dads and on the substantially expanded Marriott the best things to do from around the the other important men in our Moments to help all travellers and locals world, available for purchase with any lives the special treatment – not discover experiences that speak to their major credit card. just on one day – but throughout passions and inspire personal fulfilment. →www.marriott.com the month of June. Throughout June, guys that book The Spa’s 50-minute Post-Workout Seven Stars’ Summer Getaway and a fine dining experience at the Massage will receive a savings of 20% offer is available through Aug. 10. In resort’s signature restaurant Seven. off the menu price of $150. This is addition to The Spa’s massage offer, the The Summer Getaway must be combined with Seven Stars Resort guys can also enjoy the resort’s compli- booked by June 30. Guests receive 30% & Spa’s 30% off summer getaway mentary non-motorized water sports, off rooms in any category booked. offer available on all room types and Sunday Island Bonfire Dinner, creative →www.SevenStarsGraceBay.com accommodations booked. tropical cocktails served at The Deck,

TOURING

GOWAY discerning travellers and Goway’s Holidays of a Lifetime. Goway has released its 2018 Asia bro- Along with India and China, adven- chure, inspired by the Asia Goway team, ture seekers are invited to discover experts when it comes experiences like Bhutan, the last Shangri-La, culture- AIR CANADA VACATIONS walking the Great Wall, cruising Halong rich Sri Lanka, or Myanmar as it slowly Bay, or getting caught up in the colour reopens to the world. Travellers booking an Air Canada and chaos of India’s vibrant cities. Agents booking any Asia product Vacations (ACV) Fly and Cruise The new brochure features more by the of June will earn an extra holiday can now book with more than 230 independent and escorted $50 per booking on their Goway confidence thanks to a new feature touring ideas, including relaxing beach Rewards Card. the tour operator is offering – Cruise getaways, “Stays of Distinction” for →www.Goway.com Promise: Lowest Airfare. If an agent or their client find a flight with Air Canada or Air unlikely event that a delayed flight no deposit required on flights when Canada Rouge at a lower price at causes a client to miss their cruise, they Flight and Cruise are booked up to the time of booking, ACV will pay will be booked on the next available 30 days before departure. Also, all the entire cost of the flight for all flight to catch up with it. According flights are 100% refundable and one passengers on the booking. to officials, Cruise Promise is friendly, name change is permitted up to 30 Also, ACV’s Cruise Promise offers flexible and lets clients design the cruise days prior to travel. a guaranteed return flight. In the vacation they want. The program features →http://vacations.aircanada.com

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0607PG13.indd 13 2018-06-04 3:23:55 PM DESTINATION | MEXICO

PRINCESS UNVEILS NEW MEXICO VOYAGES

Princess Cruises will bring the flavours and fun of Mexico in 2019 and 2020 with cruises to top ports of call and enhanced on-board culinary offerings, entertainment options and shore excursions. Princess features such Mexi- can ports as Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán and Cabo San Lucas. Highlights for the 2019-20 season include the introduction of one of seven-day Mexico itineraries, plus As the only cruise line to sail year- the line’s newest ships to Mexico, Royal opportunities offering guests more time round out of San Francisco, Princess Princess, for its first full season based in port with an overnight in Cabo San also offers Grand Princess roundtrip in Los Angeles. Royal Princess will Lucas on every five-day Cabo San Lucas 10-day Mexico itineraries in 2019. Star offer 27 total departures, including Getaway sailing. Princess will make its return to the west coast in 2019 as well, featuring 10-day Baja Peninsula & Sea of Cortez CABO GOLF COURSE A NATURAL ENVIRONMENT with round-trip departures out of Los Angeles with an overnight in Cabo What’s being billed as a golfer’s dream the relocation and preservation of trees, San Lucas. course is taking shape on gently sloping shrubs, and other native vegetation →www.princess.com/mexico sand dunes in the Los Cabos area. built into the golf course. Rancho San Envisioned by Greg Norman Golf Lucas is an exclusive 834-acre resort Course Design, Rancho San Lucas’ community 30 minutes from Los Cabos 7,000 sq. m. over the old airport. 18-hole golf course uses technology and International Airport. The new terminal features an eco- sustainable practices. The setting has →www.ranchosanlucas.com conscious design that aims at reducing views of desert and ocean, while the environmental safety, while the latest in course promises a challenging game with airport technology enhances the experi- higher desert areas and lower links areas, ACAPULCO UPBEAT ABOUT ence and security of travellers to Acapulco. with six holes along the ocean and an EXPANDED AIRPORT The airport customs stations are equipped island green on hole 17. with state-of-the-art scanner machines The topography of the area, full of Acapulco has inaugurated its newly and a traffic light system for reviewing short ups and downs created by the dune expanded International Airport that suitcases and other material; QR codes environment, lends itself to playful design will allow the iconic beach destina- for migration and passport scanners; and features. The course will use revetted bun- tion to welcome a growing numbers a Health Service for inspecting imported kers which stabilize and create level grass of visitors. and exported foods. settings in and around putting greens in Also known as General Juan N. Visitors are now also greeted with difficult to maintain sandy and windy Álvarez International Airport, Acapulco’s an expanded array of restaurants, environments. The material also sculpts airport expansion has a capacity for cafés and artisan shops to buy locally enclosures and hills which add texture, handling 1.3 million passengers. Among made Mexican crafts, as well as a aesthetic appeal and variety. the most noticeable aspects of the new selection of stores selling liquors, The natural atmosphere is being airport expansion is its vast size: it is wines and other alcohol. enhanced through landscaping, with now 19,000 sq. m. in area, an increase of →www.visitacapulco.travel

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0607PG14.indd 14 2018-06-04 1:15:22 PM MORE TO LOVE IN JAMAICA

Jewel Grande

Jewel Dunn’s River Jewel Paradise Cove Jewel Runaway Bay Hilton Rose Hall

WELCOME TO THE FAMILY

More All-Inclusive but not more of the same

0607PG15.indd 15 2018-06-04 2:30:58 PM DESTINATION | HAWAII

HTA ADDRESSES VOLCANO MISCONCEPTIONS

Spectacular images of erupting lava from the Kilauea volcano on Hawaii (the Big Island) have riveted news watchers around the world through the past month-plus, but they haven’t done much to enhance tourism to the Hawaiian Islands. The videos and photos of the eruptions and lava flows are truly spectacular, the kind of “can’t look away” images showcasing nature’s power in creating new land, says the Hawaii Tourism Authority. CAMP KOHOLA DEBUTS AT FOUR SEASONS KO OLINA Unfortunately, some of the national coverage has mischaracterized the The Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina has introduced Camp Kohola at the volcano’s impact on the Hawaiian Hideaway, with a variety of cultural activities for keiki (children) that celebrate Islands as a whole, said George Szigeti, Hawaiian traditions and encourage kindness and empathy. president of HTA. Some of it has been From hula dancing to lauhala weaving to “glamping” under the stars or racing disheartening, especially when you real- a Tesla radio flyer, kids have a five-star resort experience, while their parents enjoy ize some people believe it to be true. their own R&R. They can indulge in the oceanfront adults-only infinity pool or Since Kilauea erupted on May 3, visit the resort’s 3,200 sq. m. spa. the HTA and its marketing partners Camp Kohola features a media room, creativity zone and computer area. have been working to clarify the public →www.FourSeasons.com/oahu record, correct misinformation and communicate the message that “Hawaii is open for business” except in the area GOWAY OFFERS CRUISE out the Royal Hawaiian shopping of lower Puna on the island of Hawaii. LAND HAWAIIAN COMBO centre or visit Pearl Harbour before “We will continue to reiterate this embarking on a seven-night island- message in the weeks and months to Travellers are invited to escape to Hawaii hopping journey on Norwegian come, along with emphasizing the on Goway’s 10-day “Pride of America” Cruise Line’s Pride of America through point that visitors have absolutely no Hawaii cruise and land package. the Hawaiian Islands. reason to change their travel plans to Guests can relax on Waikiki beach The package starts at $3,299. the Hawaiian Islands,” said Szigeti. or by the pool at their resort, check →www.goway.com →www.hawaiitourismauthority.org

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HAWAII AIR QUALITY GOOD EXCEPT IN KILAUEA AREA EARLY-BIRD REGISTRATION OPENS FOR GLOBAL Knowing that travellers are expressing are precautions required. TOURISM SUMMIT concerns about emissions from Kilauea Those visiting areas south of Hilo volcano, Hawaii governor David Ige and should stay alert for air quality updates, Early-bird registration to attend the state department of health director especially when wind conditions change. 2018 Global Tourism Summit, to be Dr. Virginia Pressler have emphasized →www.ivhhn.org/vog held in Waikiki Oct. 1-3, is currently that the air quality of the Hawaiian being offered through July 31. Islands is safe and the volcanic eruptions Early-bird prices for the full should not dissuade vacationers. RENOVATIONS COMPLETED AT summit (all three days) are US$325 “The air quality for the vast major- RITZ-CARLTON KAPALUA (savings of US$100), while the partial ity of the Hawaiian Islands is clean summit fee (Oct. 1-2) is US$315, or and healthy,” said Dr. Pressler. “The The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua resort, US$295 for Oct. 2-3. Students and emissions from Kilauea volcano are a located on Maui’s northwest coast, has faculty members also get a break with non-factor for Oahu, Maui, Molokai, recently announced the completion of a full summit fee of US$150. Lanai, and Kauai. The weather is beauti- a multi-million-dollar transformative The 2018 Global Tourism Summit ful and warm with cooling trade winds renovation. Designed to immerse guests is being presented by the Hawaii everywhere in Hawaii.” in “an authentic Hawaiian experience,” Tourism Authority (HTA), and held Even Hilo, Pahoa and the Kona and the renovations include newly transat the Hawaii Convention Center. Kohala coasts on the island of Hawaii formed guest rooms and suites, an Participants can register at: have been given the clean air green light, enhanced lobby and pool experience and →www.globaltourismsummithawaii.com he said. Only in the lower Puna area new dining options. and southeast portions of Hawaii island →www.ritzcarlton.com/kapalua

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Flight Centre Travel Group Canada, who mixed with the CX-YVR WESTERN AGENTS sales team for RECOGNIZED FOR TOP a photo during CX TICKET SALES the proceedings. Included were Western travel agents who book Stavros Kotsireas high volumes of tickets for flights of Flight Centre; on Cathay Pacific were recognized Kevin Pohlmann of Cathay Pacific; (FC); Rose Siu Elvan (CX); Daphne for their efforts at the recent annual Jeff Town (CX); Nova Tregaskis (FC); Tang (CX); and Ross Cronin (CX). Western Canada Top Agent Awards DeeDee Sixto (FC); Aerin Chauncey →www.lifewelltravelled.cathaypacific.com dinner, held at the Terminal City Club in Vancouver. Awards recognizing the top DRY VANCOUVER WEATHER SETS RAINLESS RECORD revenue-producing agencies were handed out. The west coast spring weather has been wonderfully sunny, but the unusually dry Amongst them were agents from weather is predicted to have an adverse effect on the upcoming summer months. The average rainfall quantity in Vancouver for May is 65 mm, but during this past May, just 1.6 mm of rain was recorded at Vancouver airport. It was the driest month of May on record. Additionally, Vancouver recorded 18 consecutive days of temperatures reaching 19 C or higher – the most ever on record. The unusually warm and dry weather helped unleash higher than usual flood levels, and has implica- tions for not just a heightened probability of wildfires, Read all about it! but also a lack of irrigation water for farmers. Look for these feature stories in MB upcoming issues of Travel Courier CANADIAN MUSEUM FOR HUMAN June 11 RIGHTS FEATURED ON $10 BILL Agents’ Choice Issue On the occasion of the debut of the new, vertically June 14 oriented $10 bill, it is worth noting that the person Europe featured on the bill is the subject of an exhibit at June 21 the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR) in Winnipeg. Sun The front of the note displays a portrait of Viola Destinations Desmond, whose defiant stand against racial segrega- July 5 tion is featured in an exhibit in the CMHR’s Canadian Caribbean Journeys gallery. Additionally, the external façade of the CMHR itself is portrayed on the back of the bill, And more... alongside an excerpt from the Charter of Rights and Don’t miss an issue. Renew Freedoms and an eagle feather representing the struggle your free subscription today! for the rights of First Nations in Canada. travelpress.com/subscribe/ →www.humanrights.ca

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ROCKY MOUNTAINEER receive two complimentary tickets. The offer is available on new book- Rocky Mountaineer is giving special ings only from May 8 to June 30. kudos to travel agents with a new exclu- This first-time offer will allow sive offer. Agents who book two reserva- redeeming agents to enjoy two-day TOURISM NEW ZEALAND tions on a Rocky Mountaineer SilverLeaf rail tickets in SilverLeaf Service. Service package or rail-only itinerary can →www.rockymountaineer.com/ Tourism New Zealand is inviting agents to discover New Zealand with its Explore PLUS independent And, Tourism New Zealand is incen- program, travel agents must first fam program. tivizing agents even further with a special complete the 100% Pure New Zealand This self-serve tool allows agents to $500 trip credit available to the first 50 Specialist Program at the Bronze lev- utilize more than 1,000 pre-approved agents to book their independent fam by els. Agent will earn Gold level status discounts on land tours, activities, Aug. 12 for travel from Sept. 1 to Nov. 19. by completing their fam. To complete transportation and accommodations Participating airlines include Air New the New Zealand Specialist Program throughout New Zealand, as well as Zealand, American Airlines, Hawaiian or to learn more about the Explore exclusive agent airfares on four partner Airlines and Fiji Airways. PLUS independent FAM, visit: airlines, starting at $500 round trip. To apply for the Explore PLUS →www.traveltrade.newzealand.com

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