Tour Operators
Time to fix the problem once and for all: CATO says
The Canadian Association of Tour Operators (CATO) says that the Ontario government needs to respond quickly to the findings of the Office of the Auditor General of Ontario’s (OAGO) value-for-money audit of the Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) based on the OAGO’s “level of concerns about consumer protection.” In a statement, CATO says that while “we need to be realistic about the next steps,” it also makes it crystal clear that it will continue to advocate for “a more effective traveller protection system. if it is confirmed there is still a need for it.” But...
Industry reacts to OAGO TICO audit
ACTA is welcoming the release of the Office of the Auditor General of Ontario’s value-for-money audit of the Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) The association points out that the 51-page report is not only comprehensive, but “clearly reflects the fact that the Travel Industry Act and current oversight of the industry do not properly reflect the environment of today’s travel industry.” Noting in its statement that it has been “advocating for a thorough review and rewrite of the Travel Industry Act,” ACTA makes it clear that “consumers and industry deserve much...
Value-for-money audit takes Ministry, TICO to task
In its overall conclusions to its just released and long awaited Value-for-Money Audit of the Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO), the Office of the Auditor General of Ontario (OAGO) writes: “Our audit concluded that TICO did not have processes to consistently administer the Travel Industry Act, 2002 effectively in order to register and regulate travel agents and wholesalers, and to protect consumers when purchasing travel services through a travel agent or wholesaler.” As an example, the OAGO pointed to the fact that TICO “could not demonstrate that it effectively...
Flight Centre’s new video series encourages bucket list travel
Flight Centre Canada is kicking off a new hotlist video series, featuring awe-inspiring sights and incredible stories of the globe's most iconic and off-beat destinations. Chadd Andre, executive vice-president of Flight Centre Canada, is ready to show Canadians the ultimate inspiration for their next adventure from Cape Town to Siem Reap and Istanbul. "Trying to decide the best places to put on your bucket list can be daunting, so we've taken out the guesswork for you," he said. "We can't wait to share our top travel journeys and what makes them so special!" About the...
Goway launches new line of small group journeys
Odysseys by Goway is a new line of unforgettable small group journeys, guided by Goway. This curated collection of small group travel experiences offers a refined pace and unique experiences that are sure to wow world travellers. About Odysseys by Goway Despite including trips to 10 different countries around the world, all Odysseys by Goway are united by core principles: Stay Longer, Explore More: Travellers stay longer in each destination to enjoy a more leisurely pace and discover hidden gems in each stop. Small Groups for Close Connections: Each travel group has a maximum...
RIT Vacations goes further afield in the UK
Strong post-COVID consumer demand for holiday travel to the United Kingdom is driving new tour program developments and staff additions at Royal Irish Tours in Toronto. Meanwhile, a more regular use of the name RIT Vacations or just RIT – for instance in the brochure copy – confirms an expansion in the content and number of programs being offered, reports Travel Courier’s Ted Davis. Specifically, there is a shift away from a focus on “Irish” in the name, as the company’s destination menu broadens across the UK to include more England, Wales and Scotland. For example, the...
Lindblad & National Geographic expand partnership
Lindblad Expeditions announced the long-term extension and expansion of the Lindblad Expeditions brand's strategic relationship with National Geographic. Under the new agreement, the two companies have extended their industry-defining 20-year relationship for 17 additional years, with a commitment through 2040 that will allow the brand to reach new worldwide audiences through three compelling new market opportunities including: Global rights to the National Geographic brand for expedition cruises, which will enable Lindblad Expeditions to increase its fleet capacity of 17...
Butterfield & Robinson launches three new scheduled Africa group trips
Butterfield & Robinson is expanding its portfolio in Africa with three new scheduled group trips in 2024: Rwanda Walking, Zimbabwe Conservation Safari and South Africa Multi-Active. Complimented by unparalleled partnerships and sustainable accommodations, the new trips offer an exclusive perspective into each country. Through a fusion of active travel and immersive luxury experiences, the trips are designed to reimagine travellers’ love of travel by deepening their connections to the area. Mike Scarola, CEO, Butterfield & Robinson, said: “The launch of Butterfield...