travel courier june 9, 2016
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There’s more to Monterey, Ca., than a pausing point between San Francisco and L.A., as we find out in Mike Baginski’s cover story this week in Travel CourierTRANSCRIPT
REINVENTING OCEAN CRUISING
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June 9, 2016
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MONTEREY MOMENTS
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CONTENTSREGULAR FEATURES
12 cover storyThere’s more to Monterey than a pausing
point between San Francisco and Los
Angeles. Editor Mike Baginski recently
visited the coastal California town, home
to Pebble Beach, quaint Carmel, and a
famous aquarium.
24 eventstravel industry calendar
24 famsupcoming educational trips for the trade
DESTINATIONS & FEATURES
15 u.s.
16 caribbean
22 cruise
25 western canada
DEPARTMENTS
26 careers professional servicesbusiness opportunities
Canadian tourism goingfrom ‘good to great’
Canada celebrated Tourism Week (May 29 – June 4) on a high. Comprising nearly 2% of GDP, the $90-billion
industry is uniquely positioned as a regional economic driver from coast to coast to coast. Canada’s tourism industry directly employs 627,000 people, while a total of 1.6 million jobs are dependent on tourism.
The Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) notes that travel is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the global economy and Canada is starting to increase its international market share and outpacing the global growth average (6.6%) for the first time in over a decade.
But, while Canada is doing very well, it could be doing even better, says TIAC.
“Canada has strong momentum following significant tourism growth in 2014 and 2015. Now is the time for the government to act on the policy issues that will take Canada to the next level as a global destination of choice,” says TIAC president Charlotte Bell. “Market conditions are ideal with strong travel intentions in key markets, favourable currency exchange rates, increased air lift and Canada’s positive media profile. By making Canada a more affordable and accessible destination, tourism has the opportunity to dramatically improve its performance and become an even greater contributor to the Canadian economy.” tc
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Berenstain Bears characters© Berenstain Enterprises Inc. The Berenstain Bears® Berenstain Enterprises Inc.
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All prices are gross per person based on double occupancy for 7 nights on all inclusive vacations (unless otherwise specified) and were available at the time of printing. Seats at the above prices are limited and subject to change without prior notice. Applicable to new bookings only. Not combinable with any other offers. Transportation taxes & related fees shown must be pre-paid. In-flight service varies by flight time and destination. Flights are with Sunwing Airlines or Travel Service. For full terms and conditions, please refer to the Sunwing Vacations 2016/17 brochure. 27 Fasken Drive Toronto Ontario M9W 1K6 Ont Reg #2476582 | 06092016
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ian stalker
A Toronto-based animal rights organization says travellers should realize that wildlife is above all wild and shouldn’t be used to entertain tourists.
Melissa Matlow of World Animal Protection told a recent Toronto symposium on sustainable travel that tourists are generally sympathetic to the well-being of animals, but are often unaware that they’re frequently mistreated for tourist entertainment.
Among acts Matlow condemned were ones that featured performing dolphins, snake charmers and elephant rides.
Matlow appealed to people to shun rides offered on wild animals, adding “it’s a myth that elephants can be domes-ticated.” In fact, elephants used to ferry tourists often undergo
“harsh training” that can include being whipped, she said.She noted that many tour companies that have offered the
likes of elephant rides have decided to drop them, a develop-ment she welcomed.
Matlow also asked tourists to skip shows that have animals doing “stupid things,” such as having monkeys ride bikes. Those monkeys are often kept in small cages and trained to fear humans, she continued.
Matlow said animals that tourists are invited to handle “can experience stress” and may live in overcrowded conditions.
Tourists frequently write positive reviews on TripAdvisor of animal entertainment acts, apparently unaware that those animals may have been mistreated, she continued.
Matlow said tourists who view animals being mistreated should complain, adding “culture isn’t an excuse for cruelty.”
Those same tourists should offer praise when they see animals being properly cared for, Matlow continued.
Matlow said those concerned about animal welfare should book trips with “responsible” companies, praising Ottawa-based World Expeditions for “strong animal welfare policies.” tc
CUT OUT THE MONKEY BUSINESS!Tourists urged to consider animal welfare
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Animals belong in the wild, not doing stupid tourist tricks, says an animal rights advocate.
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NEWS
NEW WEBSITE FORCDN. SNOWBIRDS
Canadian snowbirds and travel agents now have a one-stop online resource to find all the tips, tools and information needed to navigate wintering abroad. With the launch of SnowbirdAdvisor.ca, snowbirds will be able to find every-thing they need in one convenient place, eliminating the need to spend countless hours searching for answers to their questions. The website’s team of snow-bird experts covers such topics as travel tips, legal issues, destinations, insurance, finances, taxes, accommodations, real estate, and everything in between. The website offers free memberships and will be updated regularly.→�www.SnowbirdAdvisor.ca
WESTJET BROCHUREIS BIGGEST EVER
WestJet Vacations has released its new, updated and largest-ever print brochure. Featuring over 320 pages, the 2016/2017 brochure includes more than 450 hotel descriptions, destination overviews, des-tination maps featuring hotel locations, and more. Featured are more than 55 WestJet Vacations destinations in the Caribbean, Central America, Europe, Mexico, and the US. The brochure can be viewed in digital format at westjet.com/digitalbrochure, and ordered online at envoynetworks.ca. A French version of the brochure will be available in the coming weeks. →�www.westjet.com
INTREPID TOURS SHUN MOBILE DEVICES
Intrepid Travel has a new range of Digital Detox tours that focus on giving travellers the opportunity to disconnect from their devices and connect with the world. The four new tours will be completely free from technology, including cell phones, laptops, iPads and cameras. The trips last seven to 10 days and will run in Thailand, Morocco, India and Ecuador. The trips were designed after feedback from tour leaders and travellers suggested people are able to develop stronger connections when they unplug. Before departing on the Digital Detox trip, travellers will be asked to sign a pledge committing to the Digital Detox challenge, which includes a full week without Internet, cell phones, laptops and cameras. In turn, participants will be rewarded with a connection they could never find through WiFi. The trips themselves focus on local interaction and include activ-ities such as homestays and hill tribe visits.→�www.intrepidtravel.com/digital-detox
ROOTS HELPSPROMOTE TAIWAN
The Taiwan Tourism Bureau is collabor-ating with fashion brand Roots Canada to launch the 2016 spring/summer col-lection “Roots Taiwan,” as part of an effort to position Taiwan as a leisure destination for Canadian travellers. The new collection features a “versatile style for any occasion.” Invited by the Taiwan Tourism Bureau’s San Francisco office, Roots Canada’s new season look books were photographed in some of the most symbolic locations in Taiwan, including the 279-year-old Mengjia Longshan Temple and Sun Moon Lake. Roots Canada is also rolling out a new advertising campaign with this latest collection. The new campaign’s tagline – “Roots Taiwan” – features both Canadian and Taiwanese models and celeb-rities. The campaign was also shot in various iconic locations in Taiwan.→�www.eng.taiwan.net.tw
Mengjia Longshan Temple
TRAVELBRANDS ADDS VANTAGE TO CRUISE PORTFOLIO
TravelBrands reports that Vantage is the newest addition to its river cruising partners. With added bonuses that are unique only to Encore Cruises, Vantage offers travellers a complete selection of sailings. “Vantage [is] a deluxe river cruise line that offers great value for
our clients,” says Nathalie Tanious, vice-president of Cruises. “We wanted to provide a deluxe line that gives our agents confidence and peace of mind when they are booking their clients lux-ury vacations.” Amenities include all-in-clusive meals, escorted island tours, free
WiFi, engaging onboard entertainment, complimentary deluxe concierge service, complimentary onboard beverages, and complimentary bicycles for rent. Packages are priced in Canadian dollars.→�www.travelbrandsagent.com
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NEWS
AIR
AIR TRANSAT
Air Transat has inaugurated service between Montreal and Glasgow, Scotland. The new service is being offered on Sundays through Oct. 2, in addition to three weekly con-necting flights via Toronto. “We are very pleased to offer a direct flight to Scotland to our customers in Quebec,” says Annick Guérard, president and general manager of Transat Tours Canada. “Glasgow is a modern, trendy and avant-garde city that keeps drawing more and more travellers in search of an exciting destination. This new service per-fectly complements our UK program, which includes three weekly direct flights to London from Montreal, as well as a wide selection of connecting flights to London, Manchester and Birmingham via Toronto.”→�www.airtransat.com
NEXTJET CANADA
ACV TOUTS TWO MORE MEXICO ALL-INCLUSIVES
Air Canada Vacations has added two all-inclusive properties to its Puerto Vallarta/Riviera Nayarit lineup. The 4.5-star Grand Sirenis Matlali Hills Resort & Spa is in La Cruz, bordering Banderas Bay. It is 25 minutes from the Puerto Vallarta airport and two kilometres from Riviera Nayarit. It has junior and master suites; one buffet restaurant; two à la carte restaurants; as well as a snack bar and health bar. It also includes the Makawe spa; pool and beach towel service; and WiFi in all rooms and service areas. The second property added to ACV’s Mexico product line is the four-star
Hotel Samba Vallarta. It offers superior and junior suite accommo-dation categories and provides guests with free WiFi in all rooms and resort areas. Hotel Samba also includes three interconnected pools; three restaurants; four bars; daily chil-dren’s programs; a kid’s pool; and a two-kids-stay-for-free promotion. Air Canada Vacations offers winter ser-vice to Puerto Vallarta out of Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver. It also offers summer service out of Vancouver and will operate three times a week out of Montreal from Nov. 18.→�www.vacations.aircanada.com
Ontario’s Region of Waterloo International Airport reports that NextJetCanada is now providing daily air service between Waterloo Region and Peterborough, Ont., Ottawa/Gatineau, and Montreal. Flights
click herefor digital extras
operate Monday to Friday from Waterloo with one-way fares includ-ing taxes and fees to Peterborough starting at $99.99; Gatineau (Ottawa) at $285.07; and, Montreal at $315.72. →�www.nextjet.ca
CLOSURE PROMPTS BIG COMP FUND PAYMENT
Ontario’s Compensation Fund has paid out $127,300 due to the failure of Toronto’s Esna Travel & Tours. The Saudi Arabia/Hajj specialist voluntarily terminated operations in January. In total, the Travel Industry Council of Ontario’s (TICO) board of directors approved payments of $162,146 to assist 76 consumers who didn’t receive travel services they paid for. Other failures includes Blue Mountain Travel in Toronto ($6,135); SkyGreece Airlines S.A. ($12,163) and Skypride Travel & Tours in Markham. →�www.tico.ca
TURKISH AIRLINES
Turkish Airlines has on-ground and inflight experiences for its passengers during this summer’s UEFA EURO 2016 soccer tournament. Passengers travelling with the championship’s Official Airline Partner will be able to watch live matches on board and in lounges, while some will have the chance to win tickets to the tournament during their flight. To excite fans before and during the championship, the airline will allow them to enjoy UEFA EURO 2016, whether on ground or in the sky. International passengers flying on Turkish Airlines’ fleet of widebody aircraft – Boeing 777s and Airbus A330s – will be able to stream matches live onto their screens. Meanwhile, passengers in Turkish Airlines’ lounges across Turkey will also be able to watch the competition in their pre-flight comfort. Additionally, those in the airline’s business class lounge in Istanbul will be able to play the official EURO 2016 console game, which will be synchronized to reflect the tournament’s results. →�www.turkishairlines.com
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12 travelcourier.ca | june 9, 2016
Tenjoys its moments in the sun
hey have a saying in Monterey: Grab life by the moments!” And with a location blessed by sun, sea, sand, history, golf, wine, and more, it’s a slogan that’s easy for visitors to satiate.
From its renowned aquarium (cover photo) to famed Pebble Beach golf, quaint Carmel-by-the-Sea, Cannery Row (immortalized by John Steinbeck), and rugged Big Sur, California’s Monterey County/Peninsula has earned a spot on the bucket list of many a visitor.
Iconic actor/director Clint Eastwood was so enamoured of the place that he successfully ran for mayor of Carmel and served a two-year term in the mid- 1980s for a mere $200 per month.
Golf legend Johnny Miller once opined, “Playing here should be a sacred experience.... They say it’s the greatest meeting of land and water in the world.”
But despite its envied profile, if there’s one message tourism officials still want to convey, it’s that Monterey is more than a mere stopover between San Francisco (two hours north) and Los Angeles (five hours south).
“[Monterey] has become its own destination,” says Karen Sinclair, director of leisure sales for Carmel Valley Ranch, a unique resort in the area. “It has so much to offer and so many people love it when they come here... It’s a fabulous destination, there’s so much to do. It has everything from A to Z.”
David Cater, leisure sales executive for the Monterey Co. CVB agrees. “There’s a lot of diversity,” he says, noting that almost everything starts with the bay. As deep as the Grand Canyon – “super deep and super cold” – Monterey Bay is clearly the elephant – or perhaps whale – in the room.
Story by MICHAEL BAGINSKI
MONTEREY
COVER STORY | MONTEREY, CA.
Folktale Winery
june 9, 2016 | travelcourier.ca 13
It affects the weather, causing close to a dozen microclimates that grade from cool to hot the further inland one goes, creating not only clothing conun-drums from morning to evening, but also ideal conditions for growing grapes.
As such, there’s approximately 80 wineries in the region producing vintages easily on par with better-known Napa or Sonoma.
Of course, wine tours (and tastings) are plentiful at various establishments, one of note being The Folktale Winery in Carmel-By-The-Sea. The River Road Wine Trail connects many more and runs through rustic Carmel Valley Village, where 20 tasting rooms are located within a short walk, or wagon ride, of each other.
When not indulging in the area’s noteworthy pinots and chardonnays, the bay calls via a requisite activity for visitors: an excursion along the famed 17-mile Drive, which first opened in 1881. Starting in Pebble Beach, the route runs through the Del Monte Forest and provides many stops and vantage points, including, of course, “the Lone Cypress,” magnificently perched on a granite hillside jutting out of the bay and believed to be the most photographed tree in America.
Sea Car Tours (seacartours.com) is an excellent way to get up close and personal with the coast, via guided or self-guided open-air vehicle tours.
About an hour further out along Route 1 is rugged Big Sur, similarly known for its spectacular coastal scenery and proximity to numerous state parks.
As for Pebble Beach, the bayside links is legendary, not the least because of its stunning ocean views, which in turn have helped it host the US Open golf championship five times; it will do so again in 2019, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of Pebble Beach Resorts. Reservations generally have to be made well in advance, and must include a stay at the resort, but a lucky few can score a limited number of tee times released only 24 hours in advance.
Cannery Row
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By extension, Monterey is a renowned golf destination, with many other great courses, including options in the US$100 to $200 range.
The rich, marine environment – dubbed the “Serengeti of the Sea” – lends itself to a host of available activities on or in the water, from diving, surfing and kayaking to fishing, sail-ing and year-round whale-watching. Classified as a national marine sanctuary, Monterey Bay is also home to 24 species of marine mammals, including dolphins, sea otters, sea lions, harbour seals, and a wide variety of birds. The ideal location between Alaska and Mexico is a meeting place for migrating blue, gray and humpback whales, and orcas.
A window into the watery world for landlubbers can be found at the acclaimed Monterey Bay Aquarium, which is the biggest attraction in the area and offers general and VIP tours.
Just down the road from the aquarium is Cannery Row, immortalized by John Steinback in his 1945 novel of the same name, set during the Great Depression. Now the Row is a historically trendy destination known for its hotels and restaurants, many of them in converted sardine factories (as is the aquarium).
Nearby (and connected by a walking trail) is Fisherman’s Wharf, which is similar, but also serves as a departure point for fishing and harbour excursions.
Similarly urban, the nearby Carmel-By-The-Sea artists community is “like a village right out of a fairytale” that doesn’t even have street addresses.
A rather more raucous time can be had during Car Week in August (this year, Aug. 15-26), when “the whole peninsula turns into a giant car rally.”
Nevertheless, Cater observes that Monterey generally enjoys a slower pace than the Bay area, two hours distant. “It’s a bit calmer,” he says, adding, “This is a place you can come to re-energize. It’s high quality, unique and creative.”
Another draw for Canadians – like Monterey County Convention & Visitor Bureau president Tammy Blount – is the weather, with 300 sunny days a year, and Cater especially recommending the fall “Indian Summer” shoulder season where temperatures hover in the 70s and 80s.
A typical day tour for a stopover guests, says Cater, would include 17-Mile Drive, the aquarium, and a seaside lunch or dinner on the wharf.
“[Monterey] is just a great stopover,” enthuses Carmel Valley Ranch’s Sinclair, before reminding that it’s even better to linger longer.
“What I’ve learned is that the California coast is on a lot of people’s bucket lists,” she says. “I find travel agents like to sell Mexico or cruise, and they don’t think to recommend the California coast to clients... My message to travel agents is: Don’t forget the California coast!”
Pebble Beach
Pebble Beach Lodgetc
UTAH SKI RESORT WELCOMES AIR CANADA
The Utah ski resort of Park City is welcom-ing Air Canada’s decision to begin direct Toronto-Salt Lake City service. “With the new direct flight, you’ll be able to leave Toronto in the morning and hit the powder at Park City to sky by noon as soon as the ski season starts on Nov. 23,” Vail Resorts says. Park City Mountain Resort is the largest ski resort in the United States and is less than 40 miles from Salt Lake City Airport. Park City Mountain Resort covers over 7,300 acres, has over 300 trails and many ski-in/ski-out lodging properties. The resort is in what’s described as an “authentic western mining town” that’s home to the world’s only ski-in/ski-out distillery.→� www.epicpass.com →� www.parkcitymountain.com
VISITING VIRGINIA BY CAR PROVIDES SAVINGS
Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe says car travel to his state may amount to wheels of (good financial) fortune. McAuliffe said during a recent Toronto visit that he realizes many Canadians are wary about visiting the US because of the dollar exchange, but added that 70% of Canadians who visit Virginia do so by car, and low gas prices enable them to recoup money. Meanwhile, coastal Virginia Beach, a cornerstone of Virginia’s tourism trade, has Canada Weeks through mid-June and from mid-August through October, offering Canadian visitors the likes of a free night for every paid four nights along with what Sana Keller – Canadian representative for the Virginia Tourism Corporation – called “significant discounts at restaurants and attractions.” McAuliffe labelled his state a particularly scenic part of the world, singling out the likes of Shenandoah National Park and Virginia.→�www.virginia.org
Williamsburg area
FLORIDA RESORT COVERS RANGE OF NATURE TOPICS
Hawks Cay Resort in the Florida Keys has launched its Camp Hawk Environmental Education Program, with the sessions offering children ages five to 12 the opportunity to learn about the Florida Keys ecosystem and beyond with topics that “range from bugs to birds, sea creatures to creepy critters and even Florida’s wacky weather.” The
Environmental Education Program is offered daily at Camp Hawk from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The morning session is $60 and includes lunch. For campers interested in a full-day experience, the session is $90 and includes lunch, a snack and access to the afternoon adventure program, which features themed games, crafts, and more. Hawks Cay is for families eager to escape to a flip-flop lifestyle. The centrepiece of the resort for families is the newly reno-vated Coral Cay Activities & Adventures, home to the kids club and teen lounge and featuring a swimming pool, pirate ship pool, sports venues and more.→�www.hawkscay.com
COASTAL CALIFORNIA IN A FAMILY WAY
California’s CA Highway 1 Discovery Route updated its visitor website to cater to making reunion planning along the Central Coast of California in San Luis Obispo County easier. People can plan a multi-generational vacation based on a family’s interests using the route’s newly updated website delivering online visitor guides that cover travel information on the 10 diverse artisan towns and seaside villages along the Highway 1 Discovery Route, including where to stay, what to do, where to eat and special events throughout the region. The 101-mile CA Highway 1 Discovery Route is midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. It has views of the rugged Pacific coastline and pristine shores. Tourists can visit wineries and tasting rooms nestled in quaint seaside towns dotted along the Pacific Coast Wine Trail and historic vine-yards of Edna Valley and Arroyo Grande Valley.→�www.Highway1DiscoveryRoute.com
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DESTINATION | U.S. click herefor digital extras
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FAMILY FUN AWAITS AT ATLANTIS
For the sixth consecutive year, Atlantis, Paradise Island resort in The Bahamas and Cartoon Network are celebrating another summer of fun, activities and programming designed for families. A range of programming and experiences will be available to guests of the resort, including a new land-based inflatable obstacle course featuring The Powerpuff Girls and We Bare Bears. Guests 48 inches and taller will scramble through the We Bare Bears climbing wall and zip-line course, zoom through The Powerpuff Girls-themed zig-zag maze and slide, and more. Kids can also take part in special programming at Atlantis Kids Adventure, including themed and culinary programs, and attend Splash Screenings to view Cartoon Network shows poolside in the evening. Cartoon Network at Atlantis kicks off June 20 and runs through Aug. 21.→�www.atlantisbahamas.com/cartoonnetwork
TRANSAT FOUNDER HAS KIND WORDS FOR CUBA
Transat founder Jean-Marc Eustache praised Cuba’s tourism trade during Cuban tourism show FITCuba and then heard kind words in turn for his company from the highest official in Cuban tourism. Eustache told the early May Havana gathering that there’s been a long partnership between Cuba and Transat, and “I’m deeply convinced the future is bright for Cuba.” Eustache added Transat is a “true partner for its Cuba friends.” Cuba tourism minister Manuel Marrero, on hand for the event, in turn praised Transat, telling the same Havana audience that Transat has shown “much professionalism” during the 27 years it’s been in Cuba.→�www.transat.com
BARBADOS TOUTSNEW WEBSITE
Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) has a new website designed to offer visitors a peek into the Barbados experience, with a depth that far exceeds the site’s previous incarnation. The revamped visitbarbados.org comes as the island celebrates 50 years of independ-ence in 2016 with on-island activities. BMTI created the new interactive site to boost travellers’ understanding of the island and help in planning their holiday in Barbados. With videos that provide virtual views of the destination, trip planning tools and vibrant content, the site is a go-to resource that also includes highlights on an array of attractions, services and events on the island. →�www.visitbarbados.org
Atlantis
THINGS ARE SWEETIN SAINT LUCIA
legacy dates back to the thriving cocoa industry of the 1700s and the island continues to produce some of the world’s most sought-after chocolate. Hotels and resorts celebrate this rich heritage with inventive chocolate services and amen-ities, as well as agritourism experiences for guests. Many of Saint Lucia’s top restaurants incorporate native cocoa into menu items for both sweet and savory dishes, while resort spas create choco-late-infused spa treatments that are both indulgent and healthful.→�www.stlucia.org/chocolate-heritage-
saint-lucia
This August, Saint Lucia’s Chocolate Heritage Month offers travellers a variety of ways to satisfy a sweet tooth. From inventive “choc-tails,” chocolate-infused spa treatments, cocoa plantation tours and specialty tasting menus, travellers visiting Saint Lucia this summer can explore Saint Lucia’s rich history of cocoa production. Hotels and resorts island-wide are also offering deals for couples and families with savings of up to 50% off standard rates. Saint Lucia’s chocolate
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DESTINATION | CARIBBEAN
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MELIÁ CUBAChildren are always welcomedExtensive stretches of white-sand beaches kissed bythe exotic turquoise-blue ocean, ideal for playing allday long. Areas designed for the enjoyment of kidsunder the care of our highly qualifi ed staff. Informalambience. An oasis of swimming pools and variedrecreation activities for all ages. Free stay or generousdiscounts for children. Imagination and magic so thatkids can have a good time …and their parents too.
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KARISMA LAUNCHES NEW SPECIALIST PROGRAM
Karisma Hotels & Resorts has launched a Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana Travel Specialist Program. Travel agents who book at least three reserva-tions for Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana are entitled to become a “Nickelodeon Travel Specialist,” giving access to exclusive promotions, added values and marketing tools. Specialists will also be acknowledged as such on the Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana website to help them drive book-ings, receive an exclusive three-day fam trip to the upscale property and have access to the Gourmet Inclusive Vacation Consultant Awards with special category recognition. To become a specialist, agents must book at least three reservations. They must then achieve a minimum of 12 bookings for Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana as of Dec. 31 to maintain their status for 2017. Bookings must be registered on the Karisma Travel Agent Portal, www.karismatravelagents.com, under the Gourmet Inclusive Vacation Consultant or Agent Rewards
profiles. Opening this summer, Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana will be the first-ever international five-star Nickelodeon hotel property.→�www.karismahotels.com
Karisma has introduced a Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana Travel Specialist Program for agents.
SWASHBUCKLING GOOD TIME AT AIMBRIDGE RESORT
Aimbridge Hospitality is eager to host budding buccaneers. The company has four hotels in Jamaica, one of them in Runaway Bay, with company spokes-woman Kathleen Casper noting that particular retreat has a “water park modelled after an authentic pirate experience,” which is certain to be popu-lar with young guests wanting to play pirate. There are also counsellors to look after young guests, says Casper, who likens the resort to a theme park-like experiences in some ways. Additionally, the resort has a “full schedule” for younger guests, she adds.
montego bayMeanwhile, Casper says Aimbridge’s
beachfront Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa in Montego Bay is “one of the true beloved hotels in the Caribbean” with a “modern new look.” →�www.aimbridgehospitality.com
SUNWING ISSUES GUIDETO COUPLES RESORTS
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Sunwing Vacations’ first-ever standalone brochure dedicated to Couples Resorts’ lineup of four luxury adults-only properties in Jamaica is now out.
To celebrate, the tour operator has a time-limited promotion where travellers can save $300 per couple when they book a seven-night holiday at a Couples Resort with Sunwing through June 30 for departures until Oct. 31, 2017.
Additionally, through Sept. 30, travellers can participate in Camp Couples, a newly launched program designed to give adults a taste of their fondest memories of summer camp in a tropical setting. Those booking by July 31 will receive a daily US$25 resort credit per couple.→�http://bit.ly/27I0Nbz
AIR CANADA VACATIONSPREVIEWS WINTER SUN
Air Canada Vacations has released a preview of its 2016/17 Sun Collection. Highlights include a new winter flight schedule with increased capacity, an Early Booking Bonus and Price Drop Guarantee, plus return of Play, ACV’s exclusive family program.
The winter flight schedule features
service from ACV’s major gateways including Halifax, Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa, Winnipeg, Calgary, and Van-couver to Mexico and the Caribbean. New is Montreal to Puerto Vallarta service operating Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays onboard Air Canada rouge.
Early Booking Bonuses of up to $800 per family are available through Aug. 31.→�www.aircanadavacations.com
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CARIBBEAN
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BOOK�YOUR�CLIENTS�NOW�FOR�THESE� EXCEPTIONAL�OFFERS�ON�SELECT������CRUISES�
Visit the PartnerSHIPS portal on www.hollandamerica.com or call 1-800-426-0327.
Ships’ Registry: The Netherlands
1. FREE us���� Beverage Card*
2. FREE Gratuities*
(Hotel Service Charges)
3. FREE or Reduced Fares for Friends & Kids* (Taxes, Fees, and Port Expenses are additional)
PLUS, receive ����FREE Internet Minutes and up to ��� FREE Onboard Money for Suites*
1000*UPTO US$SAVE
+ +REDUCEDDEPOSITS
* 3 FREE*
NOW�EXTENDED� THROUGH�JULY��
*Fares and Anniversary Sale offers are based on Promo(s) RF/RG/PJ. Featured sale fares are per person based on double occupancy, cruise or Land+Sea Journeys only. Fares are in Canadian dollars. Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses are additional on all fares and range from CAD93.99 to CAD1,289.59. Subject to availability. Anniversary Sale offers are per stateroom based on double occupancy, for 1st and 2nd guests sharing a stateroom and excludes 3rd/4th guests, except as provided herein. Anniversary Sale offers are available for new bookings only, apply only to the cruise portion of Alaska Land+Sea Journeys, are not combinable with any other discounts, are not transferable, are capacity controlled, and may be modified or withdrawn without prior notice. All savings amounts are included in the fares shown. SAVE up to US$1,000 per stateroom applies to cruise fares and varies by stateroom and sailing. Reduced deposits are per guest and vary according to cruise length. Free US$100 Beverage Card: Participants may order non-alcoholic or alcoholic beverages one at a time and must be 21 years or older for alcoholic beverages. No sharing is permitted. Beverage management reserves the right to revoke the card if misused and to refuse service for any reason, including service of alcoholic beverages to intoxicated guests. Free Gratuities (Hotel Service Charges): Holland America Line pre-pays room gratuities on behalf of guests; US$13.50 per guest per day for Suites and US$12.50 per guest per day for Interior, Ocean-view and Verandah staterooms. Free Gratuities do not include gratuities for bar, dining room, wine accounts, or spa/salon services. Free or Reduced Fares for Friends & Kids are based on sharing a stateroom with 1st and 2nd guests. Suite offers: 200 Free Internet Minutes: Holland America Line cannot guarantee the availability of internet connection or speed. Onboard Money is up to US$500 dollars per stateroom (US$250 per guest), may be used on a single cruise only, is non-refundable, not for cash value, expires at the end of that cruise, and may not be used in the casino. Offers are applicable on select 2016 and 2017 departures. Please visit hollandamerica.com/AnniversarySale for full terms and conditions. Other restrictions may apply. Offers end July 1, 2016. Ships’ Registry: The Netherlands.
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ROOMS
TOURING
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ANDAZ, OTTAWA
Located in Ottawa’s ByWard Market neighbourhood, Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market will become the first Andaz-branded hotel in Canada, as well as the first Ottawa hotel under Hyatt’s brand portfolio. Opening this summer, the hotel will be a short walk from Parliament Hill, and is just north of the University of Ottawa campus. The 200-room property will include seven suites. Amenities will include a signature restaurant, roof-top bar and lounge with an outdoor terrace and 4,500 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space.→�www.ottawa.andaz.hyatt.com
FAIRMONT HOTELS
AUTO EUROPE
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has signed two new luxury hotel developments in Morocco and Saudi Arabia. The projects are Fairmont Taghazout Bay, Morocco, and Fairmont Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia, both scheduled to open before 2020. The development of these properties will see Fairmont’s luxury hotel portfolio in the Middle East, Africa and India region increase to 20 hotels by 2020, more than doubling the regional pipeline and boosting the brand’s presence within
two major economic and tourist hubs.The Fairmont Taghazout Bay
is scheduled to open in 2019 in Taghazout Bay, a 615-hectare seaside resort located 18 km north of Agadir on the Atlantic coast. Currently in development and set to open in 2020, Fairmont Al Khobar will be situated in Al Khobar on the coast of the Arabian Gulf. This area, together with the cities of Dammam and Dhahran, form the Dammam Metropolitan Area, the capital of the Eastern Province.→�www.fairmont.com
HARD ROCK HOTELS
Hard Rock Hotels says the best things in life are free and so all year long kids 12 and under will stay free at the all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotels of Mexico and the Dominican Republic. The brand cites its Family Suites as
proof of its being family friendly. The Family Suite is “decked out with a double hydro spa tub, private balcony, and kid-friendly accommo-dations. This year, nail their family getaway – and do it on our tab,” Hard Rock adds.→�www.hardrockhotels.com
Auto Europe is now offering custom-ers exclusive access to an expanded range of high-demand vehicles during
peak summer months at “great rates.” Auto Europe has reserved a dedicated fleet of compact cars, premium full-size sedans and seven to nine-passenger vans in Italy, Germany and Switzerland through September. Auto Europe customers will enjoy access to renting these automatic and larger-sized vehicles during times when inventory is typically scarce. Guaranteed makes include premium brands such as Mercedes, BMW and Audi. Travellers are encouraged to secure their rental early to lock in the lowest rates.→�www.autoeurope.com
INSIGHT VACATIONS
Insight Vacations is offering agents and their clients a sneak peek at its new 2017 Europe & Britain program, including 10 of its Luxury Gold itineraries with a guarantee to offer the lowest brochure price if they pre-register their 2017 booking. For a lim-ited time, travellers who pre-register to secure a seat on one of the more than 100 Premium and Luxury Gold
itineraries, and pay a $200 p.p. deposit within three days, will be guaranteed the lowest brochure price – even if the 2017 prices are higher. In the instance that the 2017 price is lower than in 2016, Insight will refund the difference. In addition, clients can save a further 10% off through the Early Payment Discount Program. Past guests may also receive an additional 5% discount. →�http://bit.ly/1quo7bc
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Pix of the Trade
WestJet’s Shannon Cunningham and Christian Roussin
Flight Centre’s Jordan Gracie (l) and Erin O’Sullivan (r) chat with Universal Orlando Resort’s sales manager – Canada, Beth Fleeton.
Sandals’ Robert Smith, Justin Anderson and CJ Smith
WestJet’s Matthew Djorsev poses with SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment’s director, sales & marketing Canada, Randy Anger.
WestJet pulls out all the stops
WestJet and WestJet Vacations wrapped up their six-city, cross-Canada series of Travel Trade Expos in Toronto recently, where approximately 700 travel agents had a chance to explore a trade show featuring 66 sponsor
companies, attend five different breakout sessions, as well as network with old and new friends. Here are just a few of the people in attendance, all listed left to right.
The Travel Agent Next Door’s Caley McCarney; its marketing coordinator, Shean Carmichael; vice-president, Penny Martin; and Marisa Booth, responsible for training and development
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KONINGSDAM CEREMONYFIT FOR A QUEEN
In a ceremony rich with history and meaning, Holland America Line (HAL) held a dedication ceremony for the new Koningsdam May 20 in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, where Queen Máxima of the Netherlands officially blessed the bell and named Koningsdam on board the ship in front of invited dignitaries, cruise guests, travel partners and media. During its inaugural season in Europe, Koningsdam sails in the Mediterranean and then repositions from Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome) to its summer homeport of Amsterdam. The ship will go on to sail round trip Amsterdam itineraries to Norway, the Baltic and Iceland. Following its Europe season, Koningsdam will home port at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The ship will sail one cruise to the Bahamas and then a series of Caribbean voyages from November 2016 through March 2017.→� www.hollandamerica.com
VIKING OCEAN CHRISTENS SECOND SHIP IN LONDON
Less than a year after launching its first ship, Viking Star, Viking Ocean Cruises recently welcomed its second ship, Viking Sea, to its fleet. The 930-guest, 47,800-ton vessel was officially launched in London, England. Viking Sea is the second of six ocean cruise ships currently planned for the fleet. The third and fourth ships, Viking Sky and Viking Sun are under construction and will be delivered in early 2017 and late 2017, respectively. The two remaining yet-to-be-named ships will be delivered in 2018 and 2020. Viking’s ocean fleet features “understated elegance and modern Scandinavian design.” Highlights include: all Veranda Staterooms; Explorer Suites; Two pool choices, in addition to the main pool with a retractable roof permitting any-season swimming, the ships feature a first-of-its-kind glass-backed infinity pool cantilevered off the stern; LivNordic Spa; Explorers’ Lounge and Mamsen’s; The Wintergarden; and multiple dining options, including the intimate Chef ’s Table.→�www.vikingcruises.com
Viking Sea officially joins the Viking Ocean fleet in London, England.
NCL UNVEILS SELECT 2017/18 ITINERARIES
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has unveiled select 2017/2018 Fall/Winter itineraries, including a variety of Caribbean & Bahamas cruises from New York, Port Canaveral and Miami; immersive 10-day Canary Islands cruises from Barcelona; as well as the company’s exclusive seven-day, intra-island Hawaii sailings from Honolulu. Norwegian’s new itineraries are open for booking. Norwegian’s newest and largest ship, Norwegian Escape, will continue to sail seven-day Eastern Caribbean sailings every Saturday from Miami year-round, with calls in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, Tortola, British Virgin Islands, and Nassau, Bahamas. Guests who wish
to explore the Western Caribbean from Miami can do so on Norwegian Getaway, which will return to the US from the Baltic in fall 2017.→� www.ncl.com
MSC CRUISES POSTS TWOSHIPS IN CUBAN WATERS
MSC Cruises will strengthen its presence in Cuba by homeporting a second ship in Havana from the winter 2016/17 season. In December, MSC Opera will sail its second Cuban winter, offering eight-day cruises from Havana to Montego Bay; Georgetown, Cayman Islands; Cozumel;
and back to Havana. Guests will embark in Havana on Saturdays. MSC Armonia will join MSC Opera in Havana from November for the entire winter season. Embarking guests on Tuesdays, MSC Armonia will sail two separate eight-day itineraries. Following two days and one night in the Cuban capital, the first itinerary will take guests from Havana to Roatan, Honduras, before heading for Belize City. Then it’s on to Costa Maya, Mexico, and an exclusive Caribbean beach experience on Isla de la Juventud, Cuba, before returning to Havana. The second will start with two and a half days in Havana, then set sail for Montego Bay, Georgetown and Cozumel before circling back to the Cuban capital.→� www.msccruises.com
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CRUISE
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NOBODY DOES ______ LIKE NORWEGIAN. CHOOSE FROM TWO AMAZING LIMITED TIME CANADA OFFERS.
CANADA AT PAR PRICING SALE!Special Discounted Pricing in Canadian Dollars on hundreds of sailings.
Must book by June 30, 2016.
— OR —
©2016 NCL CORPORATION LTD. SHIPS’ REGISTRY: BAHAMAS AND USA 32182 2/16
* RESTRICTIONS APPLY VISIT NORWEGIANCENTRAL.COM FOR DETAILS.
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{Send Submissions to [email protected]}
EVENTS
JUST beCAUSENetworking eventJune 16Toronto's first "JUST beCAUSE" networking event for LGBT travel and tourism professionals and allies will be held in Toronto June 16, beginning at 5:30 p.m., at the Berkeley Bicycle Club. JUST beCAUSE is a quarterly event that brings Toronto's LGBT tourism professionals together for evenings of networking, while giving back and supporting LGBT organizations across Canada. Each JUST beCAUSE event supports a different LGBT organization. Dollars raised will be donated to help in the
efforts and activities of those LGBT organizations that continue to work tirelessly and fight for the LGBT com-munity in Canada. DJ Matty Ryce will be providing the music for the evening. Attendees will have an opportunity to win a seven-night trip to Vienna, thanks to partners the Vienna Tourist Board, Austrian Airlines and Starwood Hotels & Resorts. There is no cost to attend, but people are encouraged to make a donation to charity. People can register for the event at:→�www.justbecause2016.ca
TICOAnnual General MeetingJune 21The Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) will hold its annual general meeting at 1:30 p.m. on June 21 at the Mississauga Living Arts Centre,
Mississauga, Ont. On the agenda: Receiving the financial statements for the previous financial year, together with the Auditor’s Report; Receiving and considering the Annual Report; Appointing the auditors for the corporation and authorizing the board of directors to fix the auditor’s remuneration; Transacting such other business as may properly come before the meeting. Only members in good standing are entitled to participate in and vote at the meeting. Members of the public are invited to attend. Members who will not be attending are invited to submit written requests for proxies. Copies of the audited financial statements will be available at the meeting and may be requested in writing prior to the meeting.→�www.tico.ca
More events at clearingcalendar.ca
{Send Submissions to [email protected]}
FAMS
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PERUAug. 16-27, Sept. 7-18Tucan Travel is hosting two fams to Peru, Aug. 16-27 and Sept. 7-18. The 12-day tour starts in Lima where participants first fly to the Amazon for a few days. It’s then off to Cuzco to see the Sacred Valley and to Machu Picchu by train. The last stop is Puno and its nearby Lake Titicaca, then back to Lima for one last night. Included are all accommodations (nine hotel nights, two eco-lodge nights), all transport including three internal flights, a tour leader throughout plus local guides, most breakfasts and all meals in the Amazon and on the day trip to Lake
Titicaca. International flights, optional activities and other meals are not included. The cost is $925 (land only), and agents selling five clients on a Tucan tour will receive a full refund. There is no single supplement. Contact:→�[email protected]
RUSSIASept. 1-8CG Journeys has a Sept. 1-8 fam to Moscow and St. Peterburg. Participants will stay at the Four Seasons Moscow and Lion Palace in St. Petersburg. The tour includes transportation, tours, museum and attractions entry, and an English-speaking guide. Also included is business-class travel on a high-speed train between Moscow and St. Petersburg, and a visa support letter and assistance with the Russian visa application process. The land-only p.p. rate is US$999, single
occupancy. Companions are not allowed. Flight options are available, as are pre- and post-tours. For further details, email Julia at:→�[email protected]
EGYPTSept. 17-26Application deadline: June 15On The Go Tours is hosting a 10-day fam trip through Egypt, taking in historical sites and cities like Cairo, The Pyramids of Giza, Luxor, the Nile Valley, the tombs and temples in the Valley of the Kings and the Red Sea coast in Hurghada. To apply, include your name, city, shop details and agency group in an email to [email protected]. The cost is $400 per agent (land only). For more information, visit http://bit.ly/1PrvGeo.→�www.onthegotours.com
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BC
CHINESE CARRIER TO BEGINVANCOUVER SERVICE
China’s first privately owned air-line and SkyTeam member Xiamen Airlines will launch three-times-a-week service between Vancouver and Xiamen starting July 26, with ongoing regional and international connections. MF806 will operate on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays with the B787 service offering First/Business and Economy classes. Published fares been loaded in all major GDS systems and credit card acceptance will uncomplic-ate ticketing and payment further. Xiamen offers a 5% commission on published fares.→�www.xiamenair.com
BC’S SOUTHERN GULF ISLESGET MARKETING PUSH
Destination BC and the Southern Gulf Islands are working together on a tourism marketing initiative called “Experience the Southern Gulf Islands,” inviting visitors for outdoor adventure and natural beauty. The chambers of commerce from Galiano, Mayne, Pender and Salt Spring islands, plus the Saturna Island Tourism Association, are creat-ing the campaign. Outdoor adventure/nature enthusiasts are the primary targets of the plan, as are residents of BC, Alberta and Washington state. The region is being marketed as a year-round destination with the sup-port of Destination BC and its new co-op marketing program.→�www.destinationbc.ca
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Transat debuted its 2016/2017 Southern destination lineup with a new “Sun & Fun” product guide, introduced at a hosted lunch in Vancouver. Two of the invited guests were Jason Mills, business development manager for Escapes.ca, and Susan Gill, wedding and groups specialist at Escapes.ca.
COMBO OFFER FOR BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN YVR AND YYJ
Victoria’s top rated Magnolia Hotel & Spa has partnered with the equally well regarded Loden Hotel in Vancouver to offer the “Best of Two Cities” package. The partnership entails a combined four-night experience, with two nights spent in each city and a seaplane flight to con-nect the BC mainland with Vancouver
Island. The deal includes early check-ins, daily breakfasts for two at both hotels, late check-outs and a scenic Harbour Air flight to and from Victoria. The package is available until Sept. 30, with rates starting at $459 per night.→�www.theloden.com→�www.magnoliahotel.com
MB
PASSES TO THE ZOO IN WINNIPEG PACKAGE
The Fairfield Inn & Suites Marriott in Winnipeg now has an offer in place for lovers of animals. It has partnered with the Assiniboine Park Zoo on a new package. It includes one night’s stay in a standard room, two adult and two youth passes to the zoo, free self parking, a complimentary deluxe breakfast, and access to the fitness centre/pool. The price starts at $209.→�www.fairfieldinnwinnipeg.com
SASK
SK HERITAGE RAILWAY OPEN FOR SUMMER
The Southern Prairie Railway in Ogema, SK, is ready for another season and opened on June 4. The vintage tourist train takes passengers on a journey through the prairies of southern Saskatchewan and operates out of a fully restored 1912 CPR
train station. The railway offers a var-iety of tours ranging from one-and-a-half to nine-hours long. Passengers can ride a refurbished 1922 Pullman coach and take a leisurely ride through the countryside on the Heritage Train tour. Or they can experience the wild west on the Rum Runner or Robbery tours.→�www.southernprairierailway.com
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flightcentreassociates.com/join-the-family | 1 844 213 2731
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CHANGE IS GOOD.Realize your potential. Give us a call.A brand name your customers recognize and trust.
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Travelbestjobs.com andTravel Courier ClassifiedsContact [email protected]
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Growing Your Team?
Advertise where travelprofessionals look first:
To advertise: [email protected]
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DELTA AIRLINES, UTAH
AVALON WATERWAYS
Agents booking a group of eight to 12 passengers on any 2017 Avalon river cruise, including Europe, Southeast Asia, South America or China, by Sept. 13 will receive a $250 bonus. Receive $500 when the group numbers 13 or more.→�www.agentlingo.ca
Delta Air Lines and the Utah Office of Tourism are offering agents an opportun-ity to sell their way to experience “The Greatest Snow on Earth & Incredible National Parks.” Agents will receive one point for each Delta PNR, with an addi-tional point being awarded for any Utah land package booked. This includes hotel
only, coach tours, ski vacations, self-drive packages, and any national park experiences. The top eight agents at the end of the sale period will win their way to Utah and travel on an air-inclusive fam in December. Canadian agents must register to participate by June 15. They can do so by emailing Karen McCardle (trade manager) at:→�[email protected]
AIR CANADA VACATIONS
In celebration of the Sun Collection preview, ACV is offering agents a chance to earn 4x ACV&ME points on vacation packages and groups booked to Aruba; Anguilla; Bahamas; Barbados; Costa Rica; Cuba; Curaçao; Dominican Republic; Grenada;
Jamaica; Mexico; Saint Lucia; St. Kitts; St. Martin and Turks & Caicos. Booking 50 passengers can accumulate enough points to be redeemed for $600 in ACV travel credits or a $500 VISA Cash Card. This offer is valid until July 15 for depar-tures between Nov. 1 and Oct. 31, 2017.→�www.aircanadavacations.com
CAREERS | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES | BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
INCENTIVES
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To advertise: [email protected]
Canada Sales ManagerSeaWorld Parks and Entertainment
SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment (SEA) is a leading theme park and entertainment company that blends imagination with nature and enables our guests to explore, inspire, and act. The corporate office is located in Orlando,
Florida and operates 11 theme parks in 5 states.
This position will be located in Canada and be part of the company’s Global Sales team which supports sales initiatives for all park locations and the sales of
consumer products through diverse sales channels. For more information on the company, position duties and qualifications or to apply, please visit:
SeaWorldjobs.com, search requisition 3735 for Corporate Sales Manager, Canada.
Applications for the position will be accepted through June 17, 2016SEA offers a competitive salary, bonus and vacation benefit.
EEOE
We are looking for Travel Counsellors inall locations across Canada!
Responsibilities:• Provides high quality service to consumer
travel clients emphasizing long term working relationships and building a strong customer base
• Sells a full range of preferred supplier products
• Provides accurate, complex travel information (i.e. detailed travel documentation, etc.)
• Maintain a consistently high rate of sales
• Organizes and assists with local business building promotions.
• Assists in the resolution of client complaints
• Invoice and document client
• Other duties as assigned
• Exceptional customer service skills
• Self-motivated with time management skills, able to manage a varied workload
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
• Good problem solving ability, attentive to detail
• Strong sales skills
If you are interested in applying for this position please send your cover letter and resume quoting the position applied for in the subject line to
Coach Tours & River Cruise Specialists
Discount Coach Tours, a leading Coach Tours & River Cruises retailer based in Hamilton, ON, is looking for Sales Consultants and Senior Sales Consultants.
Responsibilities include providing exceptional service to high end customers.
Must thrive in a sales oriented environment.
Coach Tour Specialists must have extensive experience in selling Trafalgar Tours,Insight Vacations, Globus Journeys,
Cosmos & Contiki Holidays.
River Cruise Specialists must have 3-5 years experience in selling Avalon Waterways, Viking River Cruises, AMA Waterways and Uniworld.
If you want to work with a company who has the top producer award with Trafalgar, Insight
and Globus, then this is your opportunity.
We pay above industry standard compensation including base salary and bonus. Opportunity to
work at home for the right candidates.
Apply to [email protected] and tell us why you are the right candidate for one of these
positions in your cover letter.
To advertise: [email protected]
CAREERS | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES | BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
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