TRAVELSAVERS does it all for its agents

Week of May 23, 2016
C A N A DA’ S M O S T
TRUSTED
T R AV E L T R A D E P U B L I C AT I O N S I N C E 1 9 6 8
Vancouver
perfect port
for Cruise360
TED DAVIS
A key point in favour of Vancouver as a location
for the CLIA Cruise360 conference and
trade show is the up-close view of the cruise
giants docked literally within steps of the
event. Immediately adjacent to the Vancouver
Convention Centre are the Canada Place berths,
where cruise ships depart and return from their
Alaska itineraries on a daily basis. It could not be
a more ideal setting.
Cruise ship capacity on routes to Alaska from
Vancouver and Seattle is up for 2016, as some
cruise lines opt to add bigger ships – instead of
more ships – to their seasonal schedules.
For instance, Holland America Line is bringing
the Nieuw Amsterdam to the port of Vancouver
this summer. It has a capacity of 2,100 passengers,
and replaces the 1,900-passenger Oosterdam.
The port of Seattle will welcome Princess giants
the Crown Princess and Ruby Princess, each
with staterooms for nearly 3,100 passengers. Also
See CRUISE360 page 17
The world’s cruise industry is gearing up for the annual
Cruise360 Conference in Vancouver from June 1–6, Check out
the special Cruise360 preview section in this week’s issue of Canadian Travel Press
starting on page 10.
Anchors aweigh:
TRAVELSAVERS does
it all for its agents
BOB MOWAT
For Kathryn Mazza, the TRAVELSAVERS
story is a good news story.
The retail travel group’s executive
vice-president sales pointed to the growth
that TRAVELSAVERS has been experiencing in Canada, along with the success
of its move into the Quebec market to
support that view.
In Toronto at the beginning of May for
the third annual Travel Marketplace conference and trade show, Mazza sat down
See TRAVELSAVERS page 17
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Your dream job awaits
Virtuoso study finds loads of opportunity for college grads
Virtuoso reports that results from a
Virtuoso’s survey found that 62% of
new study on luxury travel agencies
agencies report their top sellers earn at
and advisors provide some pretty
least $75,000 a year, while 36% report
Why Travel Advising Is Among the Fastest Growing Professions
positive results on the future of the
their star advisors make $100,000 or
industry. In a nutshell, travel agencies
more. And Virtuoso also points out
Infinite
opportunities:
are growing, and they’re on the look
that advisor compensation has been
67% of agencies are
out for promising advisor talent.
growing over the past five years.
staffing up this year, as
82%
of
them
anticipate
The group notes that travel advisThe near-universal practice of charsales growth.
ors can expect a long and potentially
ging fees has helped augment advisor
lucrative career once they enter the
compensation. An overwhelming
field, as well as various perks and
96% of Virtuoso agencies charge
See the world: More than 80% of agencies offer
professional — and personal — travel opportunities.
benefits.
client fees, a practice that establishes
In fact, as consumer interest conthe value of their professional servitinues to grow, demand for travel
ces, time and insider connections.
Make money: 62% of top
advisors currently outstrips supply,
Possibly the greatest perk advisadvisors clear $75,000+
a
year,
and
36%
earn
over
creating a pressing need to educate
ors enjoy is the ability to travel
$100,000.
potential entrants about the value
themselves, with more than 80% of
of the profession and the massive
agencies offering both business and
opportunity that awaits them.
personal travel opportunities to their
84%
Career
longevity:
Million
$$
producer:
Even better, luxury travel agenadvisors. Virtually all agencies also
Most new advisors reach
of travel advisors have
$1 million in sales their
been in the profession for
cies are thriving in an increasingly
provide training opportunities for
second year. By year 3,
more than 10 years.
competitive marketplace. Half the
continued professional development.
53% of advisors have
established lucrative
agencies surveyed sell more than $10
A further benefit of becoming a
careers.
million annually and 82% of those
travel advisor is that the path to entry
agencies predict sales growth in the
does not require a tremendous investcoming year.
ment, extensive resume or formal edu#VirtuosoTravel
And as a result, this creates ample
cation. New advisors enjoy a relatively
employment for existing travel advisfast ramp-up period and the majority
ors, and those with the right skillset who are
According to CareerBuilder’s 2016 Jobs
(53%) of new advisors take only three years to
seeking a new career, as most agencies need to
Forecast, a mere 36% of overall employers plan reach an earning level parallel to established staff.
grow to meet anticipated client demand.
to hire full-time permanent employees.
And, while the jobs are available, 43% of
With 67% of Virtuoso-affiliated agencies
Yet beyond the abundance of job opportunagencies report it is too difficult to recruit
planning to hire advisors over the next year,
ities, the travel advisor field is a strong career
qualified new advisors. The vast majority of
and another 22% possibly hiring, the employchoice on a number of levels – including the
them (84%) say finding people with the needed
ment outlook is far better than the US Average. potential for lucrative compensation.
professional skills is challenging. The most
common skills cited are a passion to serve
clients, enthusiasm for travel, comfort with
selling luxury product beyond their personal
budget and an aptitude for problem solving.
Matthew D. Upchurch, chairman and CEO
Booking.com has released its new Booking
preferences – all in real-time and with a
of Virtuoso, commented: “Travel advisors are
Messages interface – a chat-inspired comfamiliar, chat-like interface.
the hottest new thing that never went away.
munication platform that enables cusDavid Vismans, chief product officer at
Now we need to develop the next generation of
tomers and accommodation providers to
Booking.com, said: “We’re always looking
advisors. And once new entrants see what this
connect with each other from the moment
at innovative ways that we can create an
industry has to offer, they’re hooked.”
a booking is made.
even more seamless travel experience for
Upchurch continued: “It’s one of the few
In addition to being able to initiate any
our customers. We know that 75% of our
professions where it’s acceptable to be ‘out of
kind of conversation they’d like with the
customers prefer self-service options to
the office’ because you’re expected to see the
accommodation, all Booking.com customtake care of simple requests. With the new
world and learn about new products. Mobility
ers around the world can now quickly and
Booking Messages interface, customers can
and social media have allowed new advisconveniently manage the most common
literally customize and manage their trips
ors to leave their desks behind and still stay
stay-related requests in just a few taps.
in the palm of their hand. This technology
connected to clients. And for those who are
The Booking Messages interface features
takes away the worry of a busy reception
entrepreneurially-minded, there’s no limit to
automatically pre-translated templates
desk, different time zones, or friction of
what you can achieve. In my 30 years in this
for certain predefined requests, including
communication between people speaking
business, I’ve never seen so many new advisors
arranging check-in and check-out times,
different languages.”
go from zero to million-dollar producers in
as well as questions about parking and bed
(www.booking.com)
such a short amount of time.”
(www.virtuoso.com)
Dream Job: Luxury Travel Advisor
Power in the palm of your hand
MAY 23, 2016 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • 3
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TRAVEL PRESS
Canadian
Vol. 48, No. 35, Published May 23, 2016
Edith Baxter, Editor-in-Chief
1
One of the areas you oversee is groups. How significant a part of the business
are they at Globus family of brands
(GFOB)? Very! We love groups,
itineraries are available throughout Asia, Africa, South Pacific and
South America.
3
Is it possible to combine products from
more than one brand
and we have a huge array of selling tools and special offers for
agents to help them
with their groups. For
example, benefits kick
in with as few as eight
passengers, and the
Antonella Santia
largest group we work
with is 166, which
Director Operations and
Administration,
would be an Avalon
Globus family of brands
Waterways ship charter in Europe – which
happens surprisingly
often. For a coach, it’s
44 people. And we’re already work- with Globus family? Yes. One
particularly popular combinaing on quotes for 2018.
tion in Europe is a Globus
People tend to associate
coach tour or Avalon cruise
GFOB with larger scale
with our Monograms prepackcoach tours and river
aged independent tours, which
cruises that have defined itinerar- can be as short as a four-day
ies. But are custom itineraries
City Getaway to any of 19 cities.
for groups a possi-bility? With
[It’s] a great way to get over
as few as 20 clients, we can work
the jetlag!
on custom itineraries to match
What sort of selling
any group’s interests. This may be
tools does Globus
gardens, stately homes, battlefield
family of brands have
sites, cuisine, you name it! [And
for travel agents that can help
beyond Euriope], our Exotics
2
4
sell or manage groups? We’ve
created three separate tools
that include our hard copy
Travel Agent Guide & Group
Planner; the Get Your Group
to Go Guide; and Custom
Group Tours Guide. They are
all available online
at our travel agent
site, www.agent
lingo.ca. Plus agents
can ask for all sorts
of customizable
flyers and powerpoint presentations. Our business
development managers have tons of
ideas too.
5
ing with our wonderful staff
who have 59 years combined
experience with us. We’ve got
a vast product portfolio, offer a
two-day turnaround on quotes,
and when we book the air, we
look after ticketing and sked
changes, as well as offer clients
competitive rates with excellent
sked airlines.
Lynette de Zwaan,
Capri Travel,
Kelowna BC,
For the summer, I
still see the sagging
Canadian dollar against
the US dollar being a
catalyst for a decline in
transborder travel, and
the Zika virus is really
putting a damper on
travel to the Caribbean
for a lot of young
female travellers...
understandably.
Not getting enough
vacation/time off?
Sheila Aue,
TPI,
Oakville, Ont.
Nicole Boomer,
Gant Travel,
Truro, NS
ebaxter@baxter.net
David McClung, President
dmcclung@baxter.net
Wendy McClung, Executive VP, Operations
wmcclung@baxter.net
Robert Mowat, Executive Editor
bobmowat@baxter.net
Michael Baginski, Managing Editor
baginski@baxter.net
Mike Dunbar, Assistant Editor
mdunbar@total.net
Greg Coates, Assistant Editor
gcoates@baxter.net
Ian Stalker, Senior Writer
istalker@baxter.net
Ann Ruppenstein, Staff Writer
aruppenstein@baxter.net
Ted Davis, Western Editor
teddavis@baxter.net
Heifetz, Crozier, Law
Legal Affairs
info@hclaw.com
Unterberg, Labelle & Associates
Legal Affairs
Western Canada Editorial Office
Unit 904, 207 W. Hastings St., Vancouver, BC V6B 1H7
Tel: (604) 685-2588 Fax: (604) 734-9743
teddavis@baxter.net
Quebec Editorial Office
149 Creswell Dr., Beaconsfield,Que. H9W 1E5
Tel/Fax: (514) 695-8126
Johnny Koo, Art Director
johnkoo@baxter.net
Wayne Labourn, Production Manager
wlabourn@baxter.net
Why should agents
trust their groups to
the Globus family of
brands? Lots of reasons, start-
What are the issues you’ll be contending with this summer?
For me personally,
we have a brand-new
computer system and
so it’s a GDS change.
As for the industry in
general, I would say the
US exchange rate plays
a big factor in crossborder travel.
®
I’d say the Zika virus is
on my agenda. I’ve had
cancellations.
Sharron Taylor, Adv. Material Coordinator
staylor@baxter.net
Emily McClung,
Audience & Product Development Manager
emcclung@baxter.net
Dee Ristic, Circulation
Subscription Inquiries: dristic@baxter.net
Publication Office
310 Dupont St., Toronto, Ont., M5R 1V9
Tel: (416) 968-7252 Fax: (416) 968-2377
www.travelpress.com www.travelpress.travel
ctp@baxter.net (Editorial)sales@baxter.net (Advertising)
Michael Baginski, Publisher
baginski@baxter.net
Earl Lince,
Director of International Marketing
elince@baxter.net
Rodney Tugwell, Sales Manager
rtugwell@baxter.net
Mitchell McClung,
Account Executive
mmcclung@baxter.net
Daniel McDonald,
Classifieds
daniel@baxter.net
Advertising Offices
Western Canada Terry Ohman
Tel: (604) 657-2100 ohman@baxter.net
Alberta Greg Ohman
Tel: (403) 804-3497 greg.ohman@baxter.net
Southern Florida Dino Torres
Tel: (305) 775-8734 Fax: (305) 477-6607
t_dino@bellsouth.net
Northern Florida Gillian Harper
Tel: (954) 933-2786
GHTourismSolutions@gmail.com
Hawaii Laurie Doerschlen, Media Links
Tel: 808-737-4621 Fax: 808-737-2695
MdLinks@aol.com
Brazil Claudio Dasilva
Tel: 1-954-647-6464
claudio@braziltm.com
Mexico Paloma Martinez, Towmar Inc.
Tel: 52 55 2122-3900 Fax: 52 55 5395-4985
pmartinez@towmar.com.mx
Central & South America Lillian Martinez
Travel Representations & Marketing
Tel: 305-476-1130
twtrm@earthlink.net
Subscriptions: $80 - 1 year (Canada), $140 - 2 year
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W.H. Baxter
- 1919 – 2004
Founder
Karen Lantigua,
MyWeddingAway.com,
Uxbridge, Ont.
We acknowledge the support of
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4 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MAY 23, 2016
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5/19/2016 2:37:42 PM
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@weddingmoons
5/18/2016 12:25:39 PM
Smokers will be have’na
good time in Cuban hotel
San Cristobal tour
Don’t expect to find
company says of
non-smoking rooms
smokey atmospheres
in Old Havana’s
visitors may encounConde de Villanueva
ter and who’s “totally
Hotel.
confident” that Cuban
The property falls
cigars are the finest
under the banner of
anywhere.
Habaguanex, known
Visitors will see
for its themed Havana
antique furniture
hotels, and the Conde
throughout the hotel,
de Villanueva’s theme
as well as a peacock
is that most iconic
and other birds
of Cuban products
wandering through– cigars.
out the Conde
The nine guest-unit
de Villanueva’s
Conde de Villanueva
courtyard.
once served as a
But Habaguanex
home for a prominalso notes that
ent 19th-century city
visitors will also
resident who became
find the likes of a
wealthy in part by
cyber cafe, and guest
exporting tobacco,
rooms feature such
and Habaguanex’s
modern touches as
Javier Guanche Jorge
satellite TV, and air
says the tobacco
conditioning.
Conde de Villanueva guests enjoy some cigars in a hotel dedicated to that tobacco product
ambience is the “main
Guanche Jorge
characteristic” in a property that cheerfully
restricting smoking. Guests are invited to light says that it’s conceivable that some day the
and unapologetically bucks global trends by
up everywhere except the hotel restaurant,
Conde de Villanueva will fall in line somedeclaring it was “conceived for tobacco lovers.” with smoking being forbidden in the eatery
what with the international efforts to restrict
The hotel decided to identify its guest rooms because of its enclosed nature.
smoking.
by naming them after tobacco plantations,
Visitors will find the likes of a cigar store
But he cautions those who dislike the smell
rather than simply going the traditional hotel
home to a cigar roller, and pictures of such
of tobacco shouldn’t expect to be able to
route of numbering rooms.
famed cigar enthusiasts as Groucho Marx and
request a non-smoking room anytime soon.
“When tourists think of Cuba, they think
Sigmund Freud adorn a wall.
“Maybe in five years, but now it’s not posof rum and cigars and coffee,” says Guanche
“Someone who doesn’t like cigars wouldn’t
sible” he says of a hotel that proudly boasts that
Jorge, adding the Conde de Villanueva has
want to stay there. It has a full environment
it has “an unmistakable aroma.”
shunned the growing international practice of
of cigars,” Milena Arbolaez of Havana’s
(www.habaguanex.com)
IAN STALKER
The following identified the May 2
“Where in the World” as Pompeii,
Italy: Irene Rivard, CAA; Marilyn
Lentz, Bytown Travel; Vivian
Warren, Cruise Holidays; Lilliana
Carbone, American Express;
Jocelyn Silver, Continental Travel;
Mary Martinez, HRG Worldwide;
Brian Bobroff, Flight Centre;
Denise Banks, Southland Travel;
Nicola Groenewegen, Expedia
CruiseShipCenters; Kathleen
Warren, Carlson Wagonlit; Louise
Wilson, Kemp Travel Group; Michelle Renaud, Forsyth Travel; Carol
Courtney, TravelPlus; Anne Gervais, Carlson Wagonlit; Teague
Neal, Expedia CruiseShipCenters; Susan James, Maritime Travel;
Pamela Mathers, Merit; Debbie Fuller, Expedia CruiseShipCenters;
Katherine Hirtzel, Carlson Wagonlit; Barb Hricina, CWT
Concierge; Anca Rintala, Carlson Wagonlit; Daiva O’Neill, Jackie’s
Travel; Eleanor Tinney, Advantage Intravel; Laura Price, Carlson
Wagonlit; Hannelore Sieweke, Vision
Voyages Montreal; Henry Nigosian,
Amazing Journeys; Susan Hopkins,
Advantage Intravel; Virginia
Viragh, Uniglobe Donaldson
Travel; Madeline Oldford, Expedia
CruiseShipCenters; Shirley Hulleman,
BOB’S cruises; Erin Serson,
TravelPlus; Veronika Andrasofszky,
New Wave Travel; Myrna Collins,
New Wave Travel; Lana Black,
CAA; Julie Bond, Tripcentral.
ca; Taylor Curtis, Tripcentral.
ca; Steve Torok, Avianet; Bonnie
McPhail, CruiseShipCenters; Donna
Dougherty, Marlin Travel; Céline Moskovitz, House of Travel; Sheila
Porter, Voyages BCD Travel.
The following identified the April 25 “Where in the World” as
Quebec City: Jean Edmunds, Tri Star Travel; Sheila Armstrong,
Expedia CruiseShipCenters; Patty Roy, Hosted Villas; Jeannie
Connolly. The following identified the April 11 “Where in the
World” as Miami: Joanne Gaucher, CruiseShipCenters.
6 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MAY 23, 2016
0523PG06.indd 6
5/19/2016 12:58:41 PM
© 2016 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Westin and its logo
are the trademarks of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates.
Your Clients Don’t Need More Vacation Days.
They Need Better Ones.
At Westin Hotels & Resorts, every element of our guest’s stay has been designed
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Learn more at westin.com/resorts
0523PG07.indd 7
5/18/2016 2:35:24 PM
One brush won’t cover all LGBT niches!
O
ver the years, I’ve been asked from
those aged 26-45. This
time to time by my colleagues in
would also apply to
the industry where to send their
couples, as well within
LGBT clients on a vacation, but there is no
each respective age
simple answer as to what makes a destinagroup, lesbian traveltion fill the bill.
lers, etc., and both need
In order to understand the travel expectto be expertly underations and trends of any niche market, like
stood before selling
LGBT, it’s imperative to spend time on
product that is conduresearch and development before selling to this cive and appropriate.
market segment – I cannot stress that enough!
There are less availAnd as I indicated in my Feb. 29 column, there able statistics, data and
are many organizations that specialize in the
travel trends when it
LGBT market that can provide the relevant
comes to bisexual and
information, data research, specialized semin- transgendered travSitges, Spain, which features La Playa De La Bossa Rodona (above), is one
ars, trade fairs, and marketing tools to estabellers that I’m aware
of the world’s top LGBT destinations.
lish your business as a preferred LGBT travel
of. To understand in
agency or tour operator.
more depth the niche within a niche concept,
beaches, tours and more importantly a sense of
There is this myth that LGBT travellers
there are detailed reports and data available to that inclusive feeling and safe, include:
only want exclusive
further explore the
• Mykonos, Greece: Located southeast from
high-end propertravel needs within
mainland Greece within the Cyclades islands
ties, tours and areas
each niche segment.
in the Aegean Sea, Mykonos is infamously
that offer a LGBT
A significant
known for its vibrant gay nightlife, beaches
village-type area.
piece of the puzzle
and beach bars with world renowned DJs and
Let me dispel this
in the research and
a myriad of shopping and dining options. The
Armando Mendonça
myth and say that,
development of the
island is approximately three hours via highlike most travellers, the key decision factor for
LGBT market is knowing the laws affecting
speed ferry from the main port of Piraeus
clients is feeling safe and inclusive. While there the LGBT communities and how they vary
or approximately a 35-minute flight from
are LGBT-operated and -owned properties
globally which in some cases are very severe.
Athens International Airport.
that cater specifically to this market segment,
Consequently, those destinations tend to
• Sitges, Spain: A charming, quaint cobblestone
affordability, location and amenities are more
have progressive LGBT laws and appealing
Catalan Spanish town with narrow streets
important.
infrastructure, such as diverse accommoand beautiful beaches and unparalleled gay
It is equally critical to understand that there
dations that are gay friendly, gay owned or
nightlife. Located on the Mediterranean
are several niches within the broader LGBT
operated, inclusive, and a safe haven.
coast, it is approximately 35 km southwest
niche. For example, single gay men between
Three of my favourites for all niches within
of Barcelona with easy access by train from
the ages of 18 and 25 have different travel
the gay community, based on providing LGBT
Barcelona Sants Train Station.
expectations, habits and average spend than
accommodation, bars and club nightlife, gay
• Provincetown, Mass.: Located at the very tip
of Cape Cod in Barnstable
County and separated
from the mainland by a
canal, Provincetown is rich
in history and has yearThe Caribbean Travel Marketplace is returning to
our hospitality and see firsthand the exciting new
round LGBT festivities/
The Bahamas for the second consecutive year, with
products and experiences which The Bahamas and
events. Travel time from
the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) the Caribbean offer.”
Boston is approximately
staging its event there from Jan. 31 to Feb. 2, 2017 at
CHTA president, Karolin Troubetzkoy commented,
two hours by car, however
Atlantis, Paradise Island.
“With the support of The Islands of The Bahamas, we
travel by plane, train and
In addition to CHTA, Caribbean Travel Marketplace are enhancing the scope and impact of Caribbean
local transit are possible.
2017 will be organized with the support of The
Travel Marketplace, attracting new delegates and
There is limited hotel
Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Nassau/Paradise Island building upon the successful sales and marketing
product compared to
Promotion Board (NPIPB), Paradise Island Tourism
professional development sessions offered earlier this
B&Bs, so the key is to book
Development Association (PITDA) and The Bahamas
year. Caribbean Travel Marketplace presents the best
well in advance for this
Hotel & Tourism Association (BHTA).
opportunity to generate last-minute seasonal busibucket list destination.
Joy Jibrilu, director general, Bahamas Ministry
ness, while setting the state for long-term business
of Tourism, observed, “We are delighted to
and enhancing the relationship between hoteliers and
(Armando Mendonça is
announce that next year CHTA’s Caribbean Travel
buyer companies.”
a tourism entrepreneur,
Marketplace will once again be hosted here on our
The CHTA will be adding several new components
philanthropist supporting
beloved Islands of The Bahamas. We look forward to
to the event aimed at attracting even more buyers and
HIV/AIDS charities and
welcoming back those delegates who joined us this
suppliers.
LGBT travel expert. He can
year, as well as inviting new travel partners to enjoy
(www.caribbeanhotelandtourism.com)
be reached at: armando@
baxter.net.)
Lifestyle &
Diversity
Caribbean Marketplace back in Bahamas
8 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MAY 23, 2016
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Cruise360
Cruising for novices made easy
With many first-time cruisers ready to
embark on the joys and possibilities of
a cruise vacation this summer, CLIA is
offering agents the following tips that
can be passed on to cruise clients.
“With seemingly limitless destination options and exciting new features
on an array of ships, there has never
been a better time to take a cruise,
whether it is your first cruise, you
haven’t cruised in a decade or you
cruise frequently,” said CLIA president
Cindy D’Aoust. “The beauty of cruise
travel is that each trip is customized to
personal preferences, and CLIA, along
with our community of expert cruise
travel professionals are able to assist
travellers with everything from planning to packing to matching travellers
with the perfect cruise.”
With questions ranging from what
to pack to choosing from the many
onshore excursions, CLIA asked cruise
travel professionals for the top insider
tips for both first-time and seasoned cruise
travellers to make the most of a first cruise
vacation.
Planning and Packing
The 3R’s of Planning: Research, Reviews and
Recommendations – There’s an abundance of
information available when planning a cruise
vacation and experts agree that the “3R’s” of
planning are a must – Research, Reviews
and Recommendations. Research cruise line
websites, read reviews from seasoned cruise
travellers and get the best recommendations
from cruise travel professionals.
Tap Into the Experts – It is a fact that 70%
of cruise travellers use a travel agent to book a
cruise and there’s good reason. CLIA-certified
agents have access to the best deals and promotions, have toured and travelled on cruise
ships and can provide incredible travel advice.
Agents can also counsel travellers about everything from travel insurance, transfers and
flights to dining options and cabin locations.
Browse the Blueprint – Get a lay of the land
(or ship in this case) before boarding by previewing the ship layout on cruise line websites.
Getting familiar with the ship before boarding
can make the first few hours of exploring simple and even more exciting.
Consider Packing Some “Nice to Haves” –
While everyone can figure out the basics of
what to pack, there are some items that only
the most seasoned cruisers know to bring
on a cruise vacation. Power Strips, bring a
power strip to make it easy to plug in multiple
electronics. Dry Erase Board, cabin doors are
metal so bring a magnet to mark the outside
of the door, making the cabin stand out and
easy to find. Also consider a magnetic dry
erase board to use inside of the cabin to write
notes to cabin mates or post daily itineraries.
Alcohol, check the cruise line’s alcohol policy,
some offer the opportunity to bring a bottle of
wine or two onboard. Wrinkle Release Spray,
there are no irons available on most cruise
ships, so bring along some wrinkle release
spray to freshen up packed clothes.
Once On Board
Settle In – One of the best benefits of cruise
travel is the ability to visit a variety of destinations, while only having to unpack once. Take
the time to unpack, settle in and then stow
away luggage. This will make for a more stressfree travel experience.
Get with the Program – When it comes to
ship literature, be studious. Read the ship’s daily
newsletter and activity program. There may be
more opportunities to explore or activities you
want to try that are posted in these materials.
Appealing Apps – With cruise lines
offering a plethora of ways to stay connected
while at sea, consider downloading an app
like Whatsapp and creating a way for every
member of your party to stay connected,
while onboard the ship or during land-based
excursions. If possible, set unique notification ringtones for specific alerts like shows,
meal times, etc.
Exploring Ports and Destinations
Time for Tours – Cruise lines identify and
negotiate the best land tours and excursions.
Check with guest services or travel agent to
book tours and excursions that are guaranteed and sure to get passengers back to the
ship on time.
• Divide Your Days – Review the ports and
destination itinerary in advance and designate specific days for shopping, relaxing and
adventure. Don’t try to do too much at each
location.
• Before Heading Out – On most ships, room
service is complimentary. Take advantage of
breakfast in the room on days in port.
“Cruising opens travellers up to brand new
experiences and allows them to visit storied
corners of the world,” D’Aoust added. “With
these tips in mind, CLIA hopes to encourage
even more travellers to set sail on their maiden
voyage for their next vacation.”
(www.cruising.org)
10 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MAY 23, 2016
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discover the
many ways to
come back new
How do you define Princess Cruises? Inspired – with new offerings that
are changing the way guests sleep and dine at sea. Imaginative – with
entertainment that uplifts and even defies gravity. Immersive – with new
experiences just waiting to be discovered. Take a closer look at the cruise
line that continues to engage, entertain and lead guests to come back new.
Call 1-855-428-6273 or
visit OneSourceCruises.com
0523PG11.indd 11
5/18/2016 12:26:48 PM
Harmony of the Seas
makes world debut
Royal Caribbean’s new Harmony of
the Seas has made its world debut.
The port of Southampton, UK, was bustling last week as onlookers
gathered to be among the first to see the world’s largest cruise ship, the
US$1 billion Harmony of the Seas, make its first arrival into port.
After 32 months of construction, the ship’s arrival marked a major
milestone for Royal Caribbean International as Harmony became the
25th ship in the fleet.
“Harmony of the Seas is redefining vacations and intriguing a
new generation of travellers with a bold and unexpected lineup
of first-at-sea innovations, while enticing them to explore the world
from a new perspective,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO,
Royal Caribbean International. “From thrilling on-board activities
and experiences to visiting awe-inspiring destinations across the
Mediterranean and the Caribbean, Harmony places guests at the
forefront and encourages them to create their own adventures onboard
and at every destination.”
Harmony measures 362 metres, nearly four football (soccer) fields
long and weighs 226,963 gross registered tons.
The newest addition to the Royal Caribbean family combines the
distinct seven-neighbourhood concept that the cruise line’s Oasis class
of ships are known for. Innovative features include The Ultimate Abyss,
the tallest slide at sea with a 10-storey plunge; robot bartenders at The
Bionic Bar; virtual balconies with real-time views of the destination
and VOOM – the fastest Internet at sea.
Harmony of the Seas will sail from Southampton, UK, on a series of
short getaways to Northern Europe before embarking on its maiden
cruise on May 29, arriving in Barcelona, Spain on June 5. The cruise
ship and its 2,100 crew members will officially launch Harmony’s
inaugural summer season with the first of 34 seven-night western
Mediterranean sailings on June 7.
In November, Harmony will arrive at its homeport of Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., where it will offer seven-night eastern and
western Caribbean sailings.
The newest member of the fleet will join sister ships Oasis of the Seas
and Allure of the Seas, homeported in Port Canaveral and Port Everglades respectively, on the east coast of Florida.
(www.RoyalCaribbean.com)
Princess unveils new Club Class Mini-Suite
Princess Cruises is taking luxury to a new
level with its new premium stateroom category featuring VIP amenities and exclusive
dining with the introduction of the Club
Class Mini-Suite.
This elevated mini-suite category features
select perks including new Club Class Dining,
a reserved dining area with expedited seating and expanded menu options, and priority
embarkation and disembarkation. Club Class
guests will also be among the first to sleep on
the new Princess Luxury Bed.
Debuting on select ships beginning in
December, Club Class Mini-Suites will roll
out through the fall of 2017 and are available
for booking now.
“Club Class Mini-Suites provide Princess
guests yet another elevated product enhancement to enjoy during their cruise vacation,”
said Princess president Jan Swartz. “The
VIP perks, including the new Club Class Dining, offers a premium and memorable onboard
experience, so our guests can completely relax,
unwind and immerse themselves in worldwide
destinations and ultimately ‘come back new.’”
Other VIP perks Club Class Mini-Suite guests
will enjoy are one-time complimentary wine
set-up on embarkation day (half bottle of red
and white), evening canapés (upon request) and
luxurious terry shawl bathrobes.
Full Suite guests will also enjoy all the
benefits of Club Class Mini-Suites, including
Club Class Dining, and be among the first to
experience the new Princess Luxury Bed, in
addition to the many other amenities offered
with a Full Suite.
In addition to Club Class Dining and
upgraded amenities and services, Club Class
Mini-Suites include all of the standard minisuite benefits featuring spacious staterooms,
up to 323 sq. ft. with balcony, separate seating
area with sofa bed and coffee table, bathroom
with combination tub and shower and a welcome glass of champagne, among others.
(www.princess.com/clubclass)
12 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MAY 23, 2016
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COME EXPERIENCE
NORWEGIAN’S SEMINARS
AT SEA.
Want to know more about Norwegian and experience cruising with us firsthand? Join one
of Norwegian’s Team Canada BDM’s for one of our Canada Seminars at Sea and enjoy:
• A welcome reception on board
• Exclusive Norwegian product training
• Group dinner
• Partners First Recognition on board
PICK YOUR ITINERARY, REGISTER AND SET SAIL.
Aug 28th
Norwegian Escape 6-Day Western Caribbean from Miami
Sep 17th
Pride of America 7-Day Hawaii from Honolulu
Oct 23rd
Norwegian Breakaway 7-Day Bermuda from NY
Nov 26
Norwegian Epic 7-Day Eastern Caribbean from Port Canaveral
th
CONTACT US AT SALES@NCL.COM TO REGISTER TODAY!
©2016 NCL Corporation Ships’ Registry: BAHAMAS and USA
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Norwegian Cruise Line has released details of its
new western Caribbean destination experience,
Harvest Caye, Belize.
NCL unveils Belize experience
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has revealed details on its new premier
Western Caribbean destination experience, Harvest Caye, Belize.
Norwegian is developing Harvest Caye to feature an authentic Belizean environment that provides easy access to Southern Belize, coupled
with luxurious amenities, a variety of eco-activities, the country’s only
cruise ship pier for guest convenience and comfort, the opportunity for
guests to easily depart to mainland Belize for the adventure excursion
or cultural immersion of their choice, and more.
The resort-style port of call, set to welcome guests in November, will
be the only port in Belize that features a cruise ship pier – allowing
guests to walk right off the ship. Harvest Caye offers a large marina,
where guests can depart for a variety of shore excursions, including
Mayan ruins, river rafting, nature tours, and more.
“Belize is one of the most ecologically and culturally rich gems in the
Caribbean, and Harvest Caye will be the perfect destination for guests to
experience all that the country has to offer in authentic, unique ways,”
said NCL president Andy Stuart. “There is so much to do on the island
from the spectacular seven-acre beach and water sports to interactive
wildlife programs. Beyond Harvest Caye, we will strongly encourage
our guests to explore Belize through the spectacular eco-adventure and
cultural tours this incredible destination has to offer visitors.”
Guests who wish to enjoy the day in privacy can opt to rent one of
the island’s 11 luxurious beach villas, which can accommodate up to
10 guests and come equipped with air conditioning, dedicated lounge
and dining areas, a private restroom, indoor and outdoor showers,
hammocks, and exclusive dining and beverage options with dedicated
concierge service.
For those that prefer a resort-style experience, Harvest Caye will offer
a tranquil, lushly landscaped pool area. The sprawling 15,000-squarefoot pool features a swim-up bar with stools and lounge tables right in
the water, surrounded by lounge chairs and umbrellas, along with 15
canopy pool cabanas.
Adventure will be in no short supply for guests who opt to spend
their day on Harvest Caye, with the island featuring a 130-foot-tall
Flighthouse as the central area for a variety of aerial activities, including zip-lining, suspension bridges, free fall jumps and a tandem “superman” style zip-line.
Harvest Caye will also feature a myriad of dining and bar options,
available à la carte. Guests can enjoy five dining and bar outlets that feature a variety of cuisines, including a two-storey indoor/outdoor Landshark Bar & Grill. Additional dining options will include the Laughing
Bird Bar & Grill serving the beach, the Manatee Marina Bar & Grill in
the marina, the Horse-Eye Jack Bar & Grill servicing the island’s cabanas,
as well as food and drink delivery throughout the pool area.
Crystal signs order for eight new ships
Things just keep on getting bigger and better for
Crystal Cruises, as the
luxury line confirmed it
has signed an order for
eight new ships with the
Lloyd Werft Group, a collection of four shipyards in
Northern Germany.
Crystal will build six
new luxury river yachts to
be deployed on European
rivers with deliveries from
2017 to 2019. The two additional river yachts are the
result of continued interest
and demands from travel
partners and guests, and
join the four previously
announced vessels – Crystal Debussy, Crystal Ravel,
Crystal Mahler and Crystal
Bach – planned for embarkation in June and August
2017. Crystal River Cruises
makes its official debut this
summer with launch of the
reimagined Crystal Mozart on July 13 in Vienna.
Additionally, the first
purpose-built Polar Class
luxury megayacht, Crystal
Endeavor, which will be
delivered in August 2018
will accommodate 200
guests and take travellers
to the Arctic and Antarctic Circles in addition to
warm water cruising.
The final ship included
in the agreement is the
first of three Crystal Exclusive Class ships – which
will weigh 117,000 gross
tons – will accommodate
1,000 guests and residents
and is set for delivery in fall
2019. The Exclusive Class
ships will also be equipped
to sail the far reaches of the
globe, including Polar and
Arctic regions.
“The new Exclusive
Class ships, yachts and
river yachts planned for
the coming years provide travellers with an
exhilarating glimpse into
the future of luxury travel
of all kinds, from rugged
expedition adventures
to indulgently relaxing
river cruises,” said Crystal
president Edie Rodriguez.
(www.crystalcruises.com)
14 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MAY 23, 2016
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THIS IS A
DOUBLE DARING
THRILL A MINUTE
F A M I L Y A D V E N T U R E.
This is not a cruise. This is an all new way for your clients to adventure with the best and biggest ships
in the world. Discover Allure of the Seas ® and Oasis of the Seas ® in the Caribbean, delivering a double
dose of family thrills at an unbeatable value. Or experience Europe on a massive scale onboard the new
Harmony of the Seas SM, debuting this May with all new activities, restaurants and gravity-defying slides like
nothing ever seen at sea. Plus, Family Connecting staterooms and other spacious accommodations ideal
for big family adventures. No matter where your clients choose to go, there’s no better way to jumpstart
a summer vacation than with our Oasis Class ships.
OASIS OF THE SEAS ®
ALLURE OF THE SEAS ®
HARMONY OF THE SEAS S M
Fort Lauderdale | Through Fall 2016
Fort Lauderdale | Year Round
Barcelona | Spring & Summer 2016
Port Canaveral | Winter 2016
Fort Lauderdale | Fall 2016
For more information visit www.LoyalToYouAlways.com/Oasis
Features vary by ship. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships’ registry: The Bahamas. 16049722 • 5/12/16
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Viking Ocean
christens
second ship
Less than a year after launching its first ship,
Viking Star, Viking Ocean Cruises has officially welcomed its second ship, Viking Sea, to
its fleet.
Though Viking’s ocean ships are classified as
“small ships,” the 930-guest, 47,800-ton Viking
Sea is the largest ship ever launched in London,
England. After passing through the Thames
Barrier, the ship received a warm welcome by
28 able seamen, who manned the yardarms of
the Cutty Sark – the iconic 19th-century British
clipper ship – and saluted Viking Sea as it arrived
in Greenwich.
Viking Ocean Cruises recently welcomed the new Viking Sea to its fleet
After arriving in Greenwich, Viking Sea was
positioned in the Thames River with decorated pontoons nearby to
Helsinki and Stockholm on a 15-day “Viking Homelands” itinerary.
welcome guests for various shore excursions around the city. As part
Viking Sea is the second of six ocean cruise ships currently planned
of the ship’s christening ceremony, guests were treated to a concert
for the fleet. The third and fourth ships, Viking Sky and Viking Sun
from Norwegian soprano Sissel and The Olav’s Choir. Karine Hagen,
are under construction and will be delivered in early 2017 and late 2017,
Viking’s senior vice-president and daughter of Torstein Hagen, served
respectively. The two remaining yet-to-be-named ships will be delivas ceremonial godmother.
ered in 2018 and 2020.
Several elements of the christening ceremony paid homage to the
Viking’s ocean fleet features “understated elegance and modern Scancompany’s Norwegian heritage. Instead of champagne for the tradition- dinavian design.” Highlights include: all Veranda Staterooms; Explorer
al bottle-breaking, Viking Sea was christened with a bottle of Gammel
Suites; Two pool choices, in addition to the main pool with a retractOpland aquavit, which hails from the same town in Norway where
able roof permitting any-season swimming, the ships feature a first-ofTorstein’s mother and Karine’s grandmother, Ragnhild – also lovingly
its-kind glass-backed infinity pool cantilevered off the stern; LivNordic
known as “Mamsen” – was born.
Spa; Explorers’ Lounge and Mamsen’s; The Wintergarden; and multiple
Following the christening, Viking Sea set sail for Bergen and from
dining options, including the intimate Chef’s Table.
there continued on to Oslo, Copenhagen, Berlin, St. Petersburg, Tallinn,
(www.vikingcruises.com)
Celebrity Cruises gets unique in Europe
Celebrity Cruises has unveiled a new lineup of unique destination experiences in
Europe, including tours of Greece curated
by the cruise line’s own Greek officers;
exclusive opportunities to discover tantalizing flavours at local markets with an expert
chef; adventure-fueled, destination experiences curated by a world adventurer, and
bucket-list tours like racing along the French
Riviera in a Lamborghini.
New and unique, guests can experience
Greece through the lens of Celebrity’s Greek
officers. A curated menu of shore excursions
have been specially designed and selected by
the ship’s officers who call Greece home.
Guests will soon be able to discover some
of the officer’s favourite local spots, while
exploring one of the seven Greek ports that
Celebrity visits.
Guests can dive deep into the local flavours
of Europe with Celebrity’s exclusive new
“Chef’s Market Discoveries” shore excursions.
Vacationers are taken on a journey through
local markets and shops guided by the onboard chef, who will pick fresh local ingredients for a specially crafted, private dinner that
night onboard.
Highlights from the European collection
include:
• Meeting local artisans at a food market in
Rhodes, Greece and enjoying homemade
Greek specialties at a family tavern;
• Escaping to the Botanical Park of Askordalos
in Chania, Crete, a paradise for hundreds of
plants, and cooking a traditional Cretan dish;
• Experiencing how limoncello, olive oil and
mozzarella cheese are made, while travelling from Naples to the Amalfi Coast and
Sorrento, Italy.
Celebrity has expanded its Uniquely Celebrity
excursions for the 2016 Europe season to include:
• Touring Cape Sounian during an overnight stay in Athens, Greece, and savouring
breathtaking sunset views over the Greek
Temple of Poseidon and Aegean coastline;
• Visiting the Organic Winery of Assimomitis
to learn about wine production in Mykonos,
Greece, followed by a food tasting, accompanied by the ship’s sommelier.
Guests looking for an even more personalized experience in Europe can select a Celebrity Exclusive.
Highlights here include: Reveling in the
power of 500 horses with a ride along the
thrilling switchbacks of the French Riviera in
a classic Lamborghini or Ferrari; and going
where the crowds cannot in Mykonos on a
private luxury yacht, visiting some of the
lesser-known beautiful beaches of Mykonos.
(www.celebritycruises.com)
16 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MAY 23, 2016
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TRAVELSAVERS
Continued from page 1
with Canadian Travel Press, observing: “We’ve
been in the market here for 15 years and we’ve
grown substantially.”
While TRAVELSAVERS has only been in
Quebec for the last two years, Mazza noted
that the group has gone in “with both feet”
and now has 20 agencies in that province and
has “totally translated all of our products,
programs and services into French – so we’ve
totally immersed ourselves” in the Quebec
market.
TRAVELSAVERS executive vice-president of
sales told CTP that it currently has 250 affiliates in Canada and is on a path “that will lead
to another 15% growth overall from now until
the end of the year with the global commitments that we have already in place.”
As for where TRAVELSAVERS fits in the
landscape of consortia, Mazza observed:
“Well, I think your typical consortia has
always been known as a commission club. But
TRAVELSAVERS didn’t come into the market
under that umbrella. TRAVELSAVERS came
Cruise360
Continued from page 1
sailing from Seattle will be the Royal
Caribbean Explorer of the Seas, which has a
capacity of 3,100 passengers. It will replace
the 2,100-passenger Jewel of the Seas.
This growth in cruise ship capacity
is building anticipation for a jump in
arrivals to Alaska, says the Cruise Lines
International Association Alaska. It says
the final tally of 2016 cruise passengers
is expected to be up about 2% over 2015.
Cruise ship arrivals account for about half
of all visitors to the state.
“We anticipate exceeding the million-passenger mark in our cruise Alaska pipeline
in 2016,” said John Binkley, president of
CLIA Alaska.
All this business to Alaska will have significant spin-off benefits to Vancouver and
to a lesser extent, Victoria, which is a port
of call on many Alaska cruise itineraries
that operate from Seattle.
Vancouver is expecting about 830,000
cruise passengers on 228 calls in 2016,
bringing a predicted 3% increase in passengers through the city in 2016 compared to
2015. This passenger increase is expected to
generate more tourism-based revenues in
the city region. The Port says the Vancouver
cruise industry stimulates over $2 million
in economic activity for each ship that
docks at Canada Place.
Binkley of CLIA Alaska said cruise
customers are driving an industry shift to
larger vessels because these ships provide
into the market as a true marketing organization, and we evolved from there.”
She continued: “We’ve grown our products
and services. We’ve grown our technology.
And we truly are everything to the
independent travel agency today
– on the corporate, the leisure,
the luxury, the technology [side].
There’s truly no need for them to
go anywhere else.”
Mazza also pointed that
TRAVELSAVERS has a number of
differences from other consortia.
“We’ve got our exclusive terriMazza
tories where we can only take one
agency per 25,000 population. Today
our servicing of the agencies has completely
evolved.”
In this respect, she explained that
TRAVELSAVERS business development
managers have now become business analysts
and “they truly get involved” in an agency’s
business.
“They dig into the agencies, helping them
with their business plans; helping them shift
more of the waterborne activities and
amenities that passengers are seeking.
The RCCL Explorer of the Seas, for
example, offers a FlowRider surf wave generator, a climbing wall, basketball courts,
the Vitality Spa, a choice of pools, a minigolf course ,and yes, a skating rink.
Luxury sailors are segment of the cruise
population that have increasing demands and
strength in numbers. Amongst those meeting this demand are Crystal Cruises, which
returns to homeport in Vancouver this year,
for the first time since 2005. It will operate
the Crystal Serenity on eight Alaska sailings,
for a total passenger capacity of 13,000.
Expedition sailing – with luxury – on
large ocean-going cruise yachts is the
specialty at Ponant Yacht Cruises and
Expeditions. Le Soleal will make it inaugural stop in Vancouver on June 18.
Meanwhile, Victoria is preparing to
welcome the biggest ship ever to berth at
the city’s Ogden Point docks and terminal,
when the Royal Caribbean Explorer of
the Seas makes 21 visits there. Victoria
is enjoying a continued and growing
patronage by cruise ship companies, which
typically schedule stops in Victoria, as their
ships sail south from Alaska on the way to
Seattle. Victoria looks forward to eventually establishing itself as a home port, in
the same vein as Seattle and Vancouver.
The goal is to have at least one cruise ship
home port in Victoria by 2020, said Ian
Robertson, the CEO of the Greater Victoria
Harbour Authority.
share over to the preferred; and make sure
that they’re utilizing all of our products and
services.”
She also pointed out that as a travel marketing organization, “a lot of our
resources go towards consumer
marketing and doing everything
we can do to drive that consumer
to our affiliated stores.”
Programs like the Affluent
Collection, CruiseXpress,
OnlineXpress and a host of others
have all been developed to give
TRAVELSAVERS affiliates the
tools to do what they do best.
In this respect, Mazza told CTP that
the adoption rate of OnlineXpress – the group’s
lead generation and website solution – by affiliates here in Canada has been “amazing.”
And in answer to why the adoption rate is so
high, Mazza said: “Honestly, I think it’s the lead
generation. They’re highly qualified leads and
today, everybody’s looking for new business.”
As for the character of TRAVELSAVERS
agency affiliates, Mazza told CTP: “They’re the
most loyal agents in the business. The adoption
rates of our products, programs and services
here in Canada are enormous.”
So what about agents – do they have a future?
“Oh, there’s absolutely life in the agency business,” Mazza responded. “I think you’re seeing
the whole evolution [of the agency business]
today. For many years, the consumers and all of
the industries outside of our industry felt that
the travel agent was going away. But today, the
agency community today is robust. It’s thriving,
and it is only going to get bigger and better.”
She continued: “Just looking at our numbers
overall with suppliers, this will be a record
year for us here in Canada. And that says a
lot, given the economy here in the Canadian
market right now.”
As for why such is the case, Mazza told CTP
that it’s because today, “everybody is looking
for service.” Before she explained: “There’s only
so much you can do online. It’s [the Internet] a
great tool for consumers to search; to do their
researching; but when you’re planning a trip,
you want the expertise of a travel agent. You
want the knowledge and you want the security
of a travel agent.”
Asked about 2016, Mazza said that for
TRAVELSAVERS, it’s looking “extremely strong.”
“We’re seeing Europe come back a little bit
which is a positive. We’re seeing cruising –
especially here – and this is a key point – in the
Canadian market, and given the [Canadian]
dollar, a lot of cruise companies going to par –
which is good. We’ve got a lot of new products,
programs and services that we’ll be announcing at our conference in Palm Springs next
month (June), so stay tuned, [because] we’ll
have lots to speak about.”
(http://sales.travelsaverscanada.com)
MAY 23, 2016 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • 17
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Hotels.com users pick top romance spots
Hotels.com has unveiled the winners in its 2016 Loved by Guests Awards
other accolades to recognize its top-notch service and amenities. Their
to help those preparing for their wedding to find that “postcard-perfect”
wedding planners will ensure that every aspect of your destination
tropical beach or the elegant setting of an old-world city to make that
wedding, no matter how big or small, will be perfect. Rooms available
special event even more memorable.
from $313 per night.
Guests are the judges in Hotels.com annual awards program. Pulled
• The Venetian Resort Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas – Guest Review
from almost 20 million genuine and trusted reviews from guests who
Rating: 4.6/5.0 – A wedding in Venice would be a dream for many
have actually checked-in, the Loved by Guests awards recognizes those
couples, but a trip to Italy may be beyond their budgets. The next best
hotels who have achieved the best average
thing is a ceremony at the Venetian Resort in
guest review rating. Many of the winners are
Las Vegas which captures the look and spirit
hotels in resort areas popular with wedding
of Venice, complete with a recreation of St.
couples.
Mark’s Square and your very own singing
Emilie Waxman Mauer, a Montreal wedgondolier. The Venetian can cater to every
ding planner, said: “A destination wedding is
aspect of your wedding and even makes a
a dream for many couples, but without the
great place for your wedding proposal where
proper planning, it can become a nightmare.
you’re guaranteed to get a “yes.” Rooms
Before picking a hotel or resort for your wedavailable from $205 per night.
ding, be sure to do your research before you
• Half Moon Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica
spend your money.”
– Guest Review Rating: 4.7/5.0 – Half Moon
Here is a selection of the Hotels.com rankcan cater weddings from the most intimate
ing of five hotels in some of the world’s most Have your dream wedding on the beaches of
to the most grand, offering a diverse choice
Honolulu, Hawaii.
romantic places:
of spectacular indoor and outdoor venues.
• Peninsula Hotel in Paris – Guest Review
One option is their West Cottages set on a
Rating: 4.9/5.0 – Nothing is more romantic than a wedding in the
colourful, crescent-shaped bay where the resort first began. The cotCity of Love and few hotels are as glamorous as the five-star Peninsula
tages have been enjoyed in the past by JFK and Jackie, as well as Queen
Hotel in Paris’ 16th Arrondissement. Located in the shadow of the Arc
Elizabeth II. That sort of white-gloved glamour is sure to satisfy any
de Triomphe, the hotel features stunning views of the nearby Eiffel
bride and groom. Rooms available from $386 per night.
Tower. Let the hotel’s Rolls-Royce Phantom limousine take you from
• The Kahala Hotel & Resort in Honolulu, Hawaii – Guest Review
the hotel to the altar, then enjoy a reception catered by world-class
Rating: 4.6/5.0 – Stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and a perfect
chefs in the Peninsula’s elegant Rotunda with its stained glass winwhite-sand beach are just one of the choices couples can select for their
dows and crystal chandelier. It’s guaranteed to be a day to remember.
venue at the Kahala on Hawaii’s Oahu Island. This five-star resort
Rooms available from $1,271 per night.
teams up with the best wedding planners, photographers and florists
• Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach in Cancun – Guest Review
in the business to create the perfect day. Their own staff of chefs and
Rating: 4.6/5.0 – Nestled on Cancun’s finest stretch of private beach,
servers brings the entire event to the next level of excellence making it
the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach is a resort that offers the pera magnificent option for a destination wedding. Rooms available from
fect tropical setting for a wedding to remember. Not only is it a winner
$511 per night.
of the Hotels.com Loved by Guests Award, but it has won numerous
(www.hotels.com)
Honeymoon sneak peek from Sandals
For agents who have clients who are set to
Sandals and Beaches Resorts’
get married, they can now get a Sneak Peek
“Honeymoon Sneak Peek” includes accomof what a luxury included honeymoon at
modations, a honeymoon breakfast in bed,
Sandals and Beaches Resorts is all about with unlimited land and watersports, round-trip
a maximum two-night stay during the fall.
airport transfers, and more.
Land-only rates vary by resort and start at
As with all Luxury Included Vacations at
US$500 for two nights per couple for travel
Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts, guests
from Aug. 13 to Dec. 20, if booked from now will be able to savour the world with Gourmet
through Nov. 14.
Discovery Dining at up to 21 different resPlus, couples can also receive additional
taurants, enjoy unlimited top-shelf premium
savings when they book their honeymoon
drinks and Mondavi wines, access to the Red
within 14 days after their Sneak Peek stay
Lane Spa, nightly entertainment, and more.
and register within 30 days after booking
Restrictions and blackout dates apply.
the honeymoon.
Air transportation is not included.
Travel agents on behalf of their clients can
request preferred resorts and travel dates
online only at www.sandals.com/honey
moonsneakpeek or www.beaches.com/
honeymoonsneakpeek.
18 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MAY 23, 2016
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Oasis… where love comes to stay and play
hether your clients are planning a wedding,
honeymoon, anniversary celebration or
romantic lovers’ getaway, the Grand Oasis
Sens offers romantic elegance for adults 21 and over,
and the Grand Oasis Tulum offers romantic tranquility.
Both resorts have a lot to love.
W
Grand Oasis Sens offers the excitement of Cancun
with endless choices for couples who want to relax
or raise the roof, while Grand Oasis Tulum features
natural beauty with its own unique beach and coral
reef. Both all-inclusive resorts are the ideal setting to
celebrate love.
Grand Oasis Sens guests can enjoy romantic dinners
at the restaurants TripAdvisor ranks among the top
in Cancun, like the molecular gastronomy hotspot
Benazuza and the dining-in-the-dark experience at
Black Hole. Grand Oasis Tulum offers
a dazzling array of dining options from
Mexican gourmet to savory sushi.
Guests at both resorts will find endless
entertainment options to suit every mood.
along with upgraded
services and amenities.
Sian Ka’an guests
also receive special
treatment with sparkling
wine on arrival, priority
reservation status,
private beach access,
and spa discounts.
Oasis loves weddings
and offers six
packages to choose
Guests staying in Sian Ka’an rooms have access to the private beach club
with food and drink service.
from, including a
complimentary wedding with 55 room nights for up to 25 guests – and all the
extras the bride and groom are looking for. Bridal suites come with a dressing
room, make-up station, and more. Newlyweds can choose from four honeymoon
packages with the perfect setting and activities for the start of their lives together.
When clients want luxury, book the Sian
Ka’an category at either resort. These
rooms include an in-room hot tub or
private plunge pool and private terrace,
Your clients can try something new every day with the Grand Oasis
Runaway program, a value-added program that lets Grand Oasis
guests take advantage of the amenities at other Grand Oasis
resorts. Getting around is easy too when they rent a zippy Oasis
Smart car at the resort.
Visit the new website, www.OasisLovesRomance.com. Here you’ll
find videos, pictures, resort maps, and more—everything you need to
help your clients fall in love… with Oasis!
oasis loves
romance
ncun
a
C
One love. Two All-Inclusive Resort Choices. Tulum
&
ICO
MEX
Adults only, 21+
Awaken your senses in
romantic elegance at Grand
Oasis Sens in Cancun. Here
guests can indulge in the best of everything.
Natural tranquility
Grand Oasis Tulum is
luxurious and romantic;
a true oasis with a unique
stretch of beach and a coral reef all around.
Visit our new romance website at www.OasisLovesRomance.com
FOR RESERVATIONS CONTACT YOUR PREFERRED TOUR OPERATOR
TO MAXIMIZE YOUR EARNINGS VISIT www.OasisConnect.ca
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