Destinations
Ensemble, New Zealand partners host Hobbit Party in Toronto
Ensemble Travel Group welcomed about 25 of its travel advisors and agency owners to its offices in downtown Toronto earlier this week for a Hobbit Party. And, for those of you who don’t know, hobbits are those fine creatures who inhabit the pages of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings trilogy and its story of the triumph of good over evil. Were there hobbits at Ensemble’s party? Good question. Yes, there were although they seemed a little bit taller than the hobbits seen in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings films. All this to say, that everyone got in the spirit of the...
St. Kitts Tourism rolls out St. Kitts Trav Pros
The St. Kitts Tourism Authority has launched the St. Kitts Trav Pros Training & Sales Companion, developed in collaboration with TravPRO Mobile. The comprehensive platform is designed to equip travel advisors with the tools and knowledge needed to effectively promote and sell the destination. The program includes two multi-modal chapters that provide an in-depth look at St. Kitts’ history, landmarks, attractions, and accommodations through curated images, videos, and product information. Travel advisors will also benefit from peer insights and sales tips, enhancing their...
An update from the Cuba Tourist Board
The Cuba Tourist Board in Canada reports that power has been restored in the Cayo Coco area -- Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo, Cayo Cruz & Cayo Paredon| -- Cayo Santa Maria and Holguin. According to Lessner Gomez, director of the Cuba Tourism Board in Canada, there are some parts of Havana and Varadero that still are not totally recovered, but clients in these zones have been moved to hotels in the same area that have their own generators. Excursions and tours are running; all the airports are open and operational. The full recovery of the tourist areas is expected to be concluded...
GNTB launches AI influencer for Destination Germany
The German National Tourist Board (GNTB) has launched an AI influencer project that will use artificial intelligence to promote Germany as a travel destination on an international scale. With the launch of ‘Emma’ – an AI-generated influencer – the GNTB has created an innovative, interactive brand ambassador who virtually inspires potential travellers 24/7 for real vacation experiences. Emma will act as an addition to, rather than a replacement for, real-life influencers in the GNTB's digital strategy. Destination Germany will continue to rely on its strong partnerships...
Jamaica says ‘thanks’ to its Canadian partners and friends
“My heart is full tonight,” observed Angella Bennett, regional director Canada for the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) as she welcomed the destination’s partners and friends for an evening of appreciation at the Hazelton Hotel in Toronto’s Yorkville district. Of the 60 travel trade partners and members of the diaspora, Bennett said that “you are my favourite people in Canada,” noting that the evening was a celebration of the “remarkable success of Brand Jamaica” and a heartfelt “thank you” to the people who have helped elevate the brand globally. Praising Bennett and...
Expedia Group takes a deep dive into Asian traveller trends
In a newly released study, Expedia Group highlights the preferences of the growing Asian middle class, which is expected to reach 3.5 billion people and make up two-thirds of the world’s middle class by 2030. As well, the study provides travel industry professionals with the context to better serve the increasing number of mass-affluent -- meaning middle-upper income -- travellers from Asia and tailor offerings to their preferences. The study was conducted in partnership with Atomik Research and it surveyed 4,000 respondents across Asia (China, India, Indonesia, Singapore, and...
Swift’s Eras Tour expected to make a big economic impact on Toronto
Over $282 million in economic impact and over $152 million in direct spending is expected during Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour presented by Rogers in Toronto through November 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, and 23. The estimated impact numbers released by Destination Toronto highlight the significant benefit that comes from visitors travelling to the city for a concert, or for any major event or conference. Andrew Weir, CEO & President at Destination Toronto, said: “The Eras Tour is a great example of the impact major events have on our destination. Whether it’s concerts like Taylor...
Explore the Caribbean from home with One Caribbean Canada
Travel advisors are being invited to participate in an Virtual Trade Show designed to showcase all that the Caribbean has to offer their clients. The One Caribbean Canada + USA Virtual Trade Show is set to take place on Oct. 30 from 1 pm to 4:30 pm ET and will provide an opportunity for travel advisors -- from both Canada and the US) to connect with representatives from a variety of Caribbean destinations, hotels, and boutique accommodations. It will also feature live presentations, interactive Q&A sessions, and networking opportunities, allowing Travel Advisors to gain valuable...