Canadians discover Ireland is a whole new experience - March 05, 2018
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Week of March 5, 2018
Photo courtesy TOURISM IRELAND
Canadians discover Ireland is
a whole new experience
ANN RUPPENSTEIN
As tourism to Ireland continues to are working in tourism – so, we know where on the agenda was moving forward in a joint
boom, with the island nation our bread is buttered, and we want to ensure UNESCO World Heritage bid between Ireland
reporting record-breaking that’s sustained into the future.” and Canada to recognize the transatlantic
results for the seventh straight With increased connectivity from Canada, cable between Valentia Island in Ireland and
year, the Canadian market is including 8,000 weekly seats to Ireland at Heart’s Content in Newfoundland, which con-
doing its part to contribute to peak summer season, one in five Canadians nected Europe and North America for the first
the growth, joining the ranks claiming Irish heritage and a 12% growth in time in terms of instant communication.
as a top 10 feeder market for the destination. Canadian arrivals in the books – representing “This was a hugely significant communi-
“We’ve finalized figures, which show us breaking over an additional 27,000 visitors over 2016 – cations development in 1866, basically
the 200,000 [Canadian] visitors mark, which is really Griffin is confident the number of visitors before that if you wanted to send a message
positive, and we believe we can grow on that again. As a from Canada will continue to soar. between Europe and North America, you
small country, we’re really punching above our weight,” “In a relatively short period of time, we’ve had to send it by boat, this was allowing
Ireland’s Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, gone from 2% of the outbound market to messaging to happen instantaneously,” he
Brendan Griffin, TD, told Canadian Travel Press during 4.2% of Canadian outbound,” he said. “We said. “Queen Victoria sent the first message
a recent visit to Toronto. “Tourism is a huge part of our have so many links it’s important to build on actually from London to New York. This is
economy – over 10% of all people working in Ireland those, keep those strong. I think that tourism something that’s recognized as the begin-
is one way certainly of doing that. It really ning of globalization in terms of instant
brings people together.” communications.”
Some of the major news conveyed over the
The ties that bind cable included the outbreak of the First World
In addition to joining Tourism Ireland and War and the sinking of the Titanic.
13 tourism partners on a four-city sales blitz, “I think it’s certainly of the calibre of
Griffin’s visit to Canada was twofold. Also See IRELAND page 2
PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40063078.
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Ireland
Continued from page 1
Photo courtesy TOURISM IRELAND
UNESCO status, and it’s something both gov- ASL and WestJet.
ernments are determined to pursue together,” “As an island nation,
he said. “The cable, day one, drew people of course, you depend
closer together on both sides of the Atlantic; heavily on air access,”
and this project again is building new rela- he said. “We’re trying to
tions and interlinking people on both sides of have the best possible
the Altantic as well, which is kind of nice andenvironment for that
symbolic. We have a really long and strong access to be sustain-
history between Canada and Ireland.” able, so what we did
as a government, was
All about the experience we scrapped all airport taxes in and out of All things Irish
In terms of its tourism offer, Griffin said Ireland, to make it more attractive.” Ireland’s Minister of State for Tourism and
Ireland is dedicated to developing experi- While lift access continues to improve, Sport, Brendan Griffin, TD, talks his favourite
ences across the destination regardless including the addition of Shannon as a local haunts, drinks, and more.
of seasonality. second gateway in Ireland from Canada –
“We’re developing loads of new experien- which many Canadian operators expressed Where are you from? I’m living on the Wild
ces and investing in the Irish tourism product the need for during a Tourism Ireland event Atlantic Way. I’m from Kerry.
heavily through capital investment,” he said. with the Taoiseach last year, this time around
“Rather than everyone coming into Dublin for the request was for more accommodations What’s your favourite spot in Ireland to visit?
three months of the year, what we’re look- across the destination. For me, the Dingle Peninsula.
ing to do is bring people to every pocket of Meanwhile, Ian Duffy, president of Royal
Ireland right throughout the year.” Irish Tours, said another challenge is getting What about your favourite Irish dish or drink?
Some recent examples are the develop- Canadians to think of Ireland in the winter, when You can’t beat a good pint of Guinness.
ment of Ireland’s Ancient East, the Causeway they’re primarily focused on heading south. So clichéd, but it is so good. And a grass-
Coastal Route and the Wild Atlantic Way, which “Sun destinations can’t compete with the fed fillet steak from an Irish farm is just
spread the tourism offer across the destination ancestry connection,” said Griffin. “We have outstanding.
so many links, it’s important to
build on those, keep those strong.” Share a favourite travel memory in Ireland:
Looking ahead, Griffin said the I would say visiting the Aran islands with
uncertainty surrounding Brexit will my wife, back when we were students, 15
continue to be a challenge. years ago. There’s a great fort, called Dún
“Since 2016, we have seen a Aonghasa, an ancient stone fort and it’s right
considerable fall-off in numbers up to the cliffs, so if you crawl up there and
from the UK. Last year, there look over, it’s fairly exhilarating. It’s 300 feet
was a 5% reduction in overseas above the sea, and you’re looking down over
arrivals from Britain. That’s a big the sea, it’s amazing.
challenge for us... There’s huge
uncertainty into the future,” he What’s something you like to do in your neck
said. “Britain themselves don’t of the woods? I love standing on the beach of
Pictured in Toronto are Dana Welch, manager, Tourism know how Brexit is going to look, Inch in January when the waves are thunder-
Ireland Canada; Ireland’s Minister of State for Tourism so it’s very hard for us to know, but ing in, and just feeling alive, and feeling the
and Sport, Brendan Griffin, TD; and Alison Metcalfe, we need to try to be as robust as water in your face. It’s brilliant. I prefer it per-
head of North America for Tourism Ireland. we can in terms of our efforts to sonally to the months of June or July. Many
offset any of the impacts.” people like to walk along the water when the
sun is setting.
Trade talk
and can be enjoyed as year-round experiences. As for the the role of the trade, Griffin said What do you think surprises people most upon
“The Wild Atlantic Way, which is a 2,500 km travel agents provide clients with expertise visiting Ireland? The food is a surprise for a lot
coastal avenue from the north to the south and knowledge in a world that’s full of infor- of people. I think sometimes people think that
of Ireland along the western seaboard, is an mation overload. maybe food in Ireland isn’t world-class. Bear
avenue of experiences from Donegal right “Typically, Canadians when they come to in mind, we’re an island nation with a huge
down to Cork,” he said. “A fantastically spec- Ireland they stay for 10 nights and they spend tradition of fishing, so we have fresh fish all
tacularly scenic coastal route, with loads of a lot. They’re high-end visitors and they invest around the country. On plates sometimes the
authentic Irish life along the way. Great food, a lot in their holiday and they want to know same day as it’s caught. People are pleasantly
great pubs, great beaches, great activities, what they’re getting is top-notch,” he said. surprised when they walk into a restaurant,
and something for everyone.” “People want to have quality experiences, and they see that the steak they’re getting
Ireland is also capitalizing on being a they want to have special experiences and that night is from the farm of John Murphy,
filming location for Star Wars: The Force I think that’s where the agents come in, and grass-fed steak from a mile out of the village.
Awakens and The Last Jedi. Along with ad give people those guarantees and give people Organic, home-produced food is very evident
campaigns and marketing materials invit- their expertise. In a world with so much infor- on menus now all over Ireland, not just the top
ing fans to discover Star Wars in Ireland via mation coming at you, it’s very hard to get restaurants, but right through the country.
Earth’s Wild Atlantic Way, outdoor movie that precise information on your own.”
screenings are set to take place on May the As for why agents should sell Ireland Anything else? I think that as well, just
4th. Visit ireland.com/starwars for more. and why operators should package it, he the scenery. People see it online, but it’s
pointed to: “it’s easy to get to, it’s afford- only when they’re standing on the Giant’s
Taking off able, you’re getting a quality product, it’s Causeway – it’s not quite the same until
One of the key factors contributing to the highly reputable, and internationally, it’s you’re actually there in person. People 9/10
rapid growth from Canada is the strong con- recognized with award after award for being times will tell me they’re blown away.
nectivity via Aer Lingus, Air Canada, Transat, a premium tourism destination.”
2 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MARCH 5, 2018
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QUESTIONS
5
1
With International Women’s Day being installed to support tourists, can also support local
celebrated on March 8, I wonder if you communities’ infrastructure.
could talk about the crucial role tourism
3
plays in empowering women socially, economically Can you talk about the opportunities that
and politically? you see for women in tourism?
Tourism is a significant economic driver in many Tourism creates many opportunities for
countries and can be harnessed as a tool to pro- women. It’s an industry that has a low barrier to entry
mote sustainable community development, poverty and employs more women and minority groups than
alleviation, environmental conservation, and gender any other industry. It’s one of few industries that is
equality. There are many ways tourism plays into able to foster home-grown initiatives and convert
the role in empowering women. For one, it creates these into formal livelihood opportunities.
a platform for women to access education and Through working with Planeterra, I’ve had a
training opportunities for those that may not have chance to see many lives of women change through
benefited from a formal education growing up. tourism and, in some cases, saved. Tourism can
Tourism creates meaningful jobs and enhances provide an entryway into the formal economy,
Adrienne income and can often be seen as an entry into the opportunities to stay and work within one’s own
Lee formal economy. Creating meaningful and engaging rural community, or the chance to move and apply
DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT livelihoods also enhances income and independ- your hospitality skills in other regions. Tourism
PLANETERRA FOUNDATION ence for women. creates jobs at all levels of management, and it is
an industry where you can still thrive by being entre-
2
What do you see as tourism’s potential preneurial and without necessarily needing a higher
to open doors for women and contribute level of formal education.
to greater gender equality? Planeterra’s first women-led program in Peru,
Tourism can have many direct and indirect the Ccaccaccollo Women’s Weaving Workshop,
“ “To
“Tourism
To creates many opportunities for women. It’s an industry that has
a low barrier to entry and employs more women and minority groups than
any other industry. It’s one of few industries that is able to foster home-
grown initiatives and convert these into formal livelihood opportunities.”
opportunities for opening doors for women and is now entering its 12th year of partnership with
reducing the gender inequality gap. Directly, us. Over the past decade, we’ve observed these
tourism creates opportunities, resources, jobs and women’s lives change, and the lives of their
livelihoods. It is one of the few industries that can children. The members that have been with us
convert transferable skills to ones that can be util- since the beginning, are the first generation from
ized in the formal economy. For example, cooking this community to see all their children attend
a meal to becoming a chef. university.
Indirectly, tourism can also alleviate some of the Our partners in Tanzania, the Maasai Stoves &
challenging burdens that are too often delegated Solar Project, are utilizing tourism daily to support
to women in society. In many emerging economies, and install life-saving clean cookstoves across the
it’s often women that are in charge of acquiring Rift Valley. The female stove engineers share with
their household’s water, fuel and food. With G Adventures travellers the mechanics of a clean
developing tourism infrastructure for travellers, cookstove and what their homes would be like with
resources such as water tanks and electrical grids See 5 QUESTIONS page 15
MARCH 5, 2018 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • 5
0305PG05-06-15.indd 5 3/1/2018 3:01:53 PM
T H E
H O T E L
INSIDER Level the playing field in
the sharing economy
“
ERIC BARBER or city they are located in.
New business disruptors such as Airbnb and Uber have Food & Beverage options were created to become
“Rather
“Ra
Ra than been making headlines globally for a variety of reasons. destinations within themselves and part of the com-
The headlines are both positive and negative but they munity the hotel is located in. This has created an
disrupt the public are most certainly prospering, and the sharing economy experience for guests that are much different than the
with wildcat strike will be part of the business landscape for a long time to “cookie-cutter” designs that were the norm in the past.
come.
actions and Hoteliers have been quicker to react to the rise of Catering to millennials
Airbnb than our counterparts in the taxi/transportation Airbnb and its competitors have done an excellent job
disruptions as sector, seeking to minimize its impact on their own in catering to the experiences desired by the Millennial
business as much as possible. generation who seek a more local type of experience
were seen all Perhaps the greatest controversy of the Airbnb and as has been marketed to them, but hotels have also
other sharing economy accommodation sites is the recognized that they must innovate their product to
over the world impact of affordability of properties in
cities across the globe, whether these are
by taxi and rental prices or affecting purchase prices.
transport As investors buy properties for use on
Airbnb or similar sites, this reduces the
providers, the number of units available for rent to citizens
residing in those areas. Shrunken supply
hotel industry simply creates upward pressure in the city’s
rental costs, and in many cities, there was
has started to always a considerable shortage of afford-
able accommodation, i.e. London, Paris,
adapt and react New York, and now Toronto and Vancouver.
Some jurisdictions have already cre-
to accommodation ated legislation to restrict the number of
sharing platforms units permitted for short-term rental use
to ensure there is enough affordability for
by innovating their local residents.
Some argue that the plethora of short-
products.” term rentals is affecting the character of
neighbourhoods, as they create a popula-
tion of very transient people with no direct
local ties.
The ‘local’ issue
From a hotelier’s standpoint, there are
other issues with the short-term rental mar-
ket that need to be addressed by govern- Eric Barber
ment, while other issues we’ve been able to
address with our own business practices.
Travel agents should familiarize them-
selves with our perspectives, as they may often have a Millennials as well and have created a variety of shared
direct effect on their business as well. spaces in their public areas that will cater to the needs
Airbnb has touted itself as a way for travellers to stay of that generation. Shared seating areas in lobbies,
more “local” when they visit a city. Why visit a city and breakfast rooms, open concept floor plans with new
stay in a hotel when you can stay in a local residence types of lighting and even music have been designed
and have a more relevant experience? with this generation in mind.
Hotels were quick to react to this, and it can even be Rather than disrupt the public with wildcat strike
argued that many properties were already innovating actions and disruptions as were seen all over the world
their products before Airbnb became a disruptor. by taxi and transport providers, the hotel industry has
Hotels began creating a more “local” experience started to adapt and react to accommodation sharing
for their guests through a number of avenues such platforms by innovating their products.
as changes in design where the building will take on But perhaps the most important issue for the hotel
a more local looking appearance, to offering locally industry is the current legislation in Canada not being
grown food products, and to have the overall design of modernized, allowing companies such as Airbnb to
the rooms and public areas reflect the neighbourhood See HOTEL INSIDER page 15
6 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MARCH 5, 2018
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Royal Service gets royal overhaul
at Paradisus Cancun
Story and photos by ASHLEY ROCHEFORT
T
roubling tales of unsafe shores and warnings to family programming with a Kids Club open from 9 a.m–
would-be travellers have been flooding recent news- 9 p.m., includes the luxurious YHI spa and expansive fitness
casts about Cancun, Mexico. But on the ground, it’s a facilities, and is all set on a beautiful stretch of beach. Over
different story. The people are just as warm and welcoming the last two years, upgrades throughout the massive hotel
as ever, the weather just as beautiful, food just as delicious, have included refurbished guest rooms, each with its own
and resorts just as popular. In fact, hoteliers in Cancun are balcony, a renovated Royal Service section, new flooring in
expecting record-breaking occupancy rates of 85% in 2018, the pool area, and the YHI spa was renovated to add separate
marking a steady incline from 80% just two years ago. “I lounge and private cabanas, an added coffee cart and gelato
can’t say that Mexico is totally secure,” acknowledges bar – all while remaining open to guests.
Santiago Rivera, general manager, Paradisus Cancun. “But
you can’t say that anywhere is totally secure. Personally, I Royal renovations
feel safe here.” And so do the 15-20% of Canadians who The Paradisus Cancun is celebrating its 30th anniversary in
make up Paradisus Cancun’s total guests, the second- 2018 with the completion of a stylish $2.6M upgrade to its
largest country of origin. signature Royal Service suites, lounge, and amenities. These
The Paradisus Cancun has a commanding presence in the royal renovations transformed 135 suites from earth tones
area. A massive 525-room luxury resort spread across five and dark woods to sophisticated neutrals with sleek white
pyramid-shaped buildings, it’s the largest Paradisus brand furniture, pops of vibrant colour, and touches of sparkling
property and one of the largest hotels in the Cancun area. metallic accents. Sensory Architects added to the ambience
The property has a fun atmosphere, excels at activities and with soothing scents and low lighting. Every suite boasts
0305PG08-9.indd 8 3/1/2018 2:41:22 PM
or Moet. A little extra that’s well worth it. And with
nine dining options like modern Mexican cuisine
at Mole to Basque-inspired feasts at Tempo by
Michelin star chef Martin Berasategui, guests will
never be left wanting. Market Grill is a surprising
standout and so is the bountiful breakfast buffet at
Naos with a make-your-own Mimosa bar.
Hand over heart
No matter what attracts your client to the
Paradisus Cancun – food, location, atmosphere
– it’s the service that will bring them back. Every
single staff encounter is a pleasant one. While
that can be said about most resorts in Mexico, at
Paradisus Cancun, they don’t just welcome you
ocean views, a new 50-inch HD TV, stocked of pillows – down, foam or soft – and a variety of with a smile, they wish you well with a hand over
mini fridge, premium alcohol on demand, and soothing aromas like white tea, vanilla, lavender or their heart. “It’s a symbol of our sincerity,” explains
Nespresso machine. eucalyptus. The warmed, lightly scented pillow is Rivera. “We want to welcome you from the deepest
As with all Paradisus properties, the Royal then delivered directly to the guest’s room, guaran- part of our hearts.” Research shows that by placing
Service treatment gives guests a luxury experi- teeing a good night’s sleep. a hand over your heart, one tends to be more
ence at a rate roughly $150-200 more per night honest, especially when interacting with others. It’s
and entitles them to separate check-in services, Enriching experiences a simple gesture, but one that leaves guests with a
a private lounge in the Royal Service wing with a Royal Service guests or not, whether your clients genuinely warm feeling.
stocked buffet and premium bar throughout the want to do a whole lot of nothing or a little bit of
day and evening, complimentary access to the everything, the Paradisus Cancun can make their Become a pro
water treatments and dynamic pool at the YHI Spa, dream vacation come true. For those wanting Paradisus is an all-inclusive luxury hotel brand by
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Bent, but not broken
Florida Keys, Key West get back to business
MIKE DUNBAR Myers told CTP that, currently, 75% of all
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southernmost North America’s island go today, you would never think we had
chain. touch our greatest asset and greatest experienced such a storm.”
And the body copy backs it up: “Here strength – the tough, independent and She added, “The eye of the storm hit
in the Florida Keys, we’re always in awe of Cudjoe Key and the worst damage was
the power and beauty of Mother Nature, warm-hearted spirit of its people… sustained by the in-between islands, while
but Hurricane Irma truly tested what we the bookend Keys are in great shape.”
were made of. Thanks to the resilience of Mitchell stated, “The hurricane might
our people and the kindness of strangers, we’ve In a “welcome back” message to potential have impacted the Keys’ landscape, but the storm
gotten back on our feet and we’re getting back to visitors, Stacey Mitchell, marketing director of couldn’t touch our greatest asset and greatest
business. The power’s on. The drinks are flowing. Florida Keys & Key West noted, “Some islands strength – the tough, independent and warm-
And the Keys are open. So come on down.” like Key Largo and the bayside-gulf areas of hearted spirit of its people.”
The Sept. 10, 2017 category five storm brought Islamorada and Marathon, as well as southern- And in a sign-off message to potential
the entire island chain’s number-one industry to most Key West, felt less of the storm’s wrath, but visitors, she wrote, “Wherever you travel along
a grinding halt but, remarkably, Key West airport others, such as the Lower Keys and the oceanside the Overseas Highway when you travel to the
reopened a mere 10 days after Irma hit, cruise regions of Islamorada and Marathon experienced Keys, you can expect a welcome as warm as our
ships were docking four days after that and, more and will require more time to recover.” year-round subtropical climate. We invite you to
miraculously, officials declared the Keys open for At the recent Florida Huddle in Fort become part of our revitalization.”
tourism on Oct. 1. Lauderdale, Keys tourism spokeswoman Laura
Ethiopian monastery
reveals wonders of
early Christianity
IAN STALKER
The Lake Tana area of Ethiopia has picture-perfect signs of early
Christianity.
Ayinekulu Mulugeta (l) stands beside stones that when struck can
The area is home to several religious structures, among them the Ura
summon the faithful to a monastery.
Kidane Mihret Monastery famed for its interior walls of floor-to-ceiling,
Christian images dating back to the religion’s earliest days. Mulugeta is well-versed in the artworks that coat the inner wall,
The images adorn a circular interior wall and date back to the 16th cen- providing visitors with such insights that images where a figure only
tury and enabled those who were unable to read to learn about their faith. has one visible eye denotes a non-Christian.
Local tourism official Ayinekulu Mulugeta says the circular nature of the He adds that he can’t point out all the intricacies in the paintings
entire structure expresses the doctrine of trinity, with Ethiopia being home to visitors for time reasons, given the huge number of paintings that
to one of the world’s oldest Christian communities, with historians generally await guests.
stating that the country adopted Christianity as its faith in the 4th century. “If I told guests of all the pictures, probably three days wouldn’t be
Mulugeta continues to hold regular Sunday services and has a replica enough,” Mulugeta says. “That’s why I make it general.”
of the Ark of the Covenant in its inner sanctum, a hallmark of Orthodox Ethiopian Airlines links Toronto and Addis Ababa with non-stop
Christian churches in the nation. service. More information can be found at ethiopianairlines.ca .
10 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MARCH 5, 2018
0305PG10.indd 10 3/1/2018 3:20:19 PMIt’s all about sharing
Allianz Global Assistance
INSURANCE
tracks trends
I
n its new Winter Vacation
Confidence Index – con-
ducted by Ipsos – Allianz
in new survey
Global Assistance reports that the use of sharing also use their mobile devices more, are
economy services by Canadians while they are increasingly embracing those services
travelling is growing – at least among Millennials while on vacation.”
and Gen-Xers. Keon continued: “Remarkably, the
Allianz Global Assistance noted that highest increase in expected participa-
when asked how likely they would be to use tion is coming from Gen-Xers, validating
a sharing economy service while on vacation, other studies that paint that demographic
69% of Millennials (aged 18 to 34) said “yes,” more and more as digital travellers, those
an increase of three percentage points from a who use their mobile devices to plan and manage 2016 Index. Fifteen per cent were familiar with
year earlier. Fifty-seven per cent of Gen-Xers their trips on the go.” Lyft (it was not measured in 2016), while 12%
(35 to 54) said they would use a sharing econ- The Index also found that overall trust in the reported being familiar with HomeAway (up 2%).
omy service while travelling, an increase of sharing economy has increased seven percent- Said Keon: “We believe as awareness and
six percentage points from 2016. age points to 44%, with Millennials showing trust grow year after year, we should see a cor-
Only those aged 55-plus showed a decrease the highest level of trust at 58%; while 41% of responding increase in the number of Canadians
(down 4%), with only 39% expressing an inten- Gen-Xers and 36% of Boomers (55-plus) said who will use sharing economy services while
tion to participate in the sharing economy they trust sharing economy services. travelling. Millennials are the most familiar with
while travelling. In terms of familiarity with sharing economy the sharing economy (76%), while just over half
Dan Keon, head of market management for services, Uber and Airbnb led the way, with 52% of Gen-Xers (55%) and Boomers (53%) are famil-
Allianz Global Assistance Canada, noted that: of respondents saying they are familiar with Uber iar, yet Gen-Xers are still fairly prolific users.”
“It’s not surprising that Millennials, who were and 47% with Airbnb – increases of eight and Go to http://www.allianz-assistance.ca
early adopters of the sharing economy and who twelve percentage points, respectively, over the for more.
MARCH 5, 2018 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • 11
0305PG11.indd 11 3/1/2018 3:56:13 PMLooking for alternatives
Taking a dynamic
approach to
ACTE’s Greeley Koch
hotel sourcing
As corporate travel managers become increasingly frustrated
with traditional approaches to sourcing hotels, they’re slowly
supplementing their programs with newer, dynamic systems.
Koch continued: “For many years, RFP-based hotel sourcing pro-
cesses have been the norm with no viable alternatives. But travel
managers now have access to newer, more cost-effective tools and
That’s the word in research from the Association of Corporate Travel need to move away from the ‘this is how we’ve always done it’ mindset.”
Executives (ACTE) – which was underwritten by BCD Travel. Sourcing hotels using an annual RFP is time-consuming, both for
The findings come as technology streamlines almost every aspect of setup and ongoing maintenance. Fifty-five per cent of travel managers
travel. However, for many corporate travel managers, hotel sourcing is expect setup to consume more than 50 hours of their time, while 40%
stuck in the pre-digital era. believe maintenance will require more than 50 hours.
The hotel sourcing paradox is underscored by the fact that, despite
their frustrations with the manual and time-intensive process of sea- Dynamic approach
sonal RFP negotiations, most companies are nevertheless following that The study also revealed that corporate travel managers who use a
same pattern in contracting hotel nights for 2018. dynamic approach to sourcing are achieving real benefits in terms of
greater flexibility, improved traveller
What a process satisfaction and greater compliance.
ACTE, in its New Approaches to Hotel However, the research also sug-
Sourcing study, found that many cor- gested that managers are uncertain
porate travel managers’ jobs continue to feature management of the about how to find and implement an alternative sourcing strategy. Most
resource-intensive annual RFP process. New Approaches reveals that don’t set out with a clear plan for change (only 9% of managers have
more than half (56%) of survey respondents plan to source more than a definite intention to switch from RFP-based sourcing to dynamic
50% of their room nights via an RFP, and 29% will use RFPs to source at sourcing). To move forward, travel managers must adopt a holistic view
least three-quarters of their rooms. of their hotel sourcing program, solicit feedback from travellers and
The traditional RFP-based hotel sourcing method seems uncompel- suppliers alike and be willing to test new models.
ling for many managers: just over one-third (38%) believe it gives them Said Koch: “Making any major programmatic change requires travel
the best ROI. Unsurprisingly, then, slightly more than two-thirds (69%) managers to take some risks. The dynamic sourcing model is more
indicate either unhappiness with the performance of traditional sourcing complex than the traditional model, and for many organizations, it might
or a desire to change. work best alongside traditional RFP methods. The key to success will
Greeley Koch, executive director, ACTE, said: “Institutional inertia be trial and error, and not being afraid to step back, evaluate what didn’t
can be a major problem across organizations, and the travel department work and continue to forge ahead.”
is no exception.” Go to http://www.acte.org for more.
The following identified the
Jan. 22 “Where In The World”
as Lisbon, Portugal: Marilyn Lentz,
Bytown Travel; Shirley Hulleman,
BOB’S cruises & tours; Timothy
Edgecombe, The Carlyle, A Rose-
wood Hotel; Alvaro Lopez de Haro,
WHERE AMResorts; Michelle Renaud,
Forsyth Travel Ltd.; Anthony Bento,
WAS THAT Allianz Global Assistance; Randy
Raphael, Vision Travel Solutions;
Barb Hricina, CWT Concierge;
Joseph Cheung, NGH Cruise;
Katherine Hirtzel, Carlson Wagonlit;
Susan Hopkins, Advantage Intravel;
Barbara Smith, CWT/Clarke-Way
Travel; Veronika Andrasofszky,
New Wave Travel; Jenny Watts, Heather Rother, SellOffVacations. Expedia CruiseShipCenters; Margaret
CAA; Renata Bodnar, Renata Travel; com; Virginia Viragh, Uniglobe Statham, Expedia CruiseShipCenters;
Elena Savitch, Olympia Travel Inc.; Donaldson Travel; Debbie Fuller, Hymie Lebowitz, YYZ Travel.
12 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MARCH 5, 2018
0305PG12.indd 12 3/1/2018 3:00:04 PMPhoto courtesy DESTINATION BC/TED HESSER
Grizzly bear from
a bear-watching tour
out of Farewell Harbour
Grizzly bear viewers
Lodge, part of the Great
Bear Rainforest on
Broughton Archipelago
may benefit from hunt demise
TED DAVIS For instance, the BC Operator welcomes Rivest speculated that visitor spending than bear
Wildlife Federation says that new law growth in the bear-viewing hunting: viewing expendi-
The grizzly bears the law was passed because “We are very happy to see tourism sector may vary tures were $15.1 million, while
it is politically popular and the ban on hunting grizzly according to their regional guided non-resident and
of British Columbia
was green-lighted in the bears go into effect. It has locations. “Uncertainties resident hunters combined
got a huge break absence of scientific facts, been the result of hard from unresolved land claims generated $1.2 million.”
without an analysis of long work by a lot of interested are probably a bigger deter- It also found that organized
late in 2017, when term implications. A study parties for over a dec- rent to the rapid expansion bear-viewing activities are
by the BC auditor general ade,” said Tom Rivest, of bear viewing businesses generating over 11 times more
the provincial NDP
concluded “that grizzly bear the co-owner of Great on the BC coast than hunting in direct revenue for the BC
government passed hunting was considered Bear Nature Tours in Port was. In the interior where government than bear hunting
a minor factor within the Hardy. He noted that the land access is easier, the carried out by guide outfitters.
a new law that bans larger issue of habitat Commercial Bear Viewing cessation of hunting may The GDP is $7.3 million for
management,” said Alan Association of BC, of which indeed increase the number bear viewing and $660,500
trophy hunting of
Martin, director of strategic he is a founder, was a key of bear-viewing businesses, for non-resident and resident
the creatures. initiatives at the BC Wildlife participant in achieving especially over the next five hunting combined.
Federation. He pointed to this goal. to 10 years,” he said.
BC’s estimated 15,000 the Independent Audit of As an operator of grizzly First Nations
grizzlies can now, for the Grizzly Bear Management for viewing tours since 1999, Economics favour thumbs-up
most part, wander the wilder- support. Rivest has deep insights to bear viewing And regardless of special
ness without fear of being The Guide Outfitters the potential impact of the A study from 2014 also con- allowances, the new law
felled by a hunter’s bullet. Association of BC also new ruling on the grizzly firmed economic arguments that strikes down the
The law applies across the responded, saying that the viewing business. For in favour of bear viewing grizzly bear hunt was given
province with the exception grizzly bear hunt was man- instance, the termination of businesses. The Economic a general thumbs-up by an
of those areas that have been aged by strict regulations the hunt doesn’t necessarily Impact of Bear Viewing and aboriginal tourism stake-
set aside for First Nations that allowed just 2% of the create more locations for Bear Hunting in the Great holder and strategist.
occupants, who retain bear population to be killed bear viewing, he said, but Bear Rainforest of BC was “The new BC govern-
traditional rights to hunt the per year – below the 6% it does improve the quality undertaken by the US-based ment policy supporting the
bears for food, social and that is considered to be a of bear viewing in those Center for Responsible protection of grizzly bears is
ceremonial purposes. sustainable rate. naturally good locations. Travel. It focused on the important for the Indigenous
In other words, there are But indeed, the great That’s because more bears Central and North Coast of tourism industry in British
no longer hunting licences majority of people in British will frequent these locations British Columbia, which is Columbia,” said Keith
available for sale to non-ab- Columbia were in favour of even if humans are present, better known as the Great Henry, president and CEO
originals, including the many outlawing the grizzly bear once they realize they are not Bear Rainforest. of the Indigenous Tourism
hunters who have come to trophy hunt. For example, an being hunted, he said. “The overwhelming Association of Canada (ITAC).
Canada from the US each independent poll by Insights “But you still need a site conclusion is that bear “There are coastal First
year for grizzly “trophy” hunt- West in 2015 found that 91% with reasonable access costs viewing in the Great Bear Nation tourism businesses
ing in the fall and spring. of British Columbians were and a local bear food supply Rainforest generates far who harness the visitor
opposed to the hunt. Another that attracts a sufficient more value to the economy, interest with bear viewing
Opposition to new law study by the BC government number of bears on a pre- both in terms of total visitor such as Spirit Bear Lodge
This was not good news for in 2017 indicated that 78% of dictable basis,” said Rivest. expenditures and GDP, and in Klemtu or Gitga’at Spirit
BC guide outfitters, whose the survey group wanted the “Plus you need the ability to provides greater employment Tours in Hartley Bay. More
business has been to offer hunt to end. get a permit from the BC and opportunities and returns to importantly, the protection
guiding services to grizzly And, not surprisingly, the First Nations governments. government than does bear of the Great Bear Rainforest
bear hunters. They voiced new law was welcomed by Competition in bear viewing hunting,” said the study. has resulted in a new vision
their opposition to the tour operators that offer has been slowly growing over The study revealed that: for developing Indigenous
new law, saying that it was grizzly bear viewing and the last two decades, but “In 2012, bear-viewing com- tourism on coastal BC. It is
shaped by false science and grizzly bear photography demand seems to be out- panies in the GBF generated these reasons that support
populist pressures. programs in BC. pacing growth thus far.” more than 12 times more in the decision.”
MARCH 5, 2018 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • 13
0305PG13.indd 13 3/2/2018 11:25:37 AMNew research
finds travel key
to taking a job
It’s all about the travel. differences across the various
In fact, new research from industries.
Booking.com for Business reveals For example, bankers and profes-
that more than a quarter (26%) of sional service workers prefer to take
all working Canadian professionals shopping-focused trips (39%), while
accepted their job in part or fully those in manufacturing and logis-
because of opportunities to travel tics seek outdoor activities at their ‘all-inclusive’ accommodations, travelling for business and want a
for work. destinations (34%) and nearly a fifth while education professionals’ local experience.
The research also discovered (18%) of retail and sale professionals preferences are geared towards a Over a third (43%) trying local
that over a third (36%) said they enjoy organized tours to explore luxurious bathroom (20%), a hearty cuisine was important, as was
would actively pursue a new job if it their new surroundings. breakfast (57%) and close proximity experiencing local art and culture
meant they could travel even more. When Booking.com for Business to green spaces (27%). (37%) and finding hidden gems off
Looking across all professions, looked at preferred accommodation When it came to travelling for the beaten path (21%).
Booking.com for Business learned types and amenities, unique trends business – no matter in which Ripsy Bandourian, senior dir-
that 73% of Canadian employees say emerged across professions. industry a person worked – the ector of product development at
making time for leisure travel gives Over a quarter (28%) of both destination itself is at the heart of Booking.com for Business, noted
them greater job satisfaction. What’’s Canadian technology and com- whether Canadians opt to build in that: “It’s no surprise that mixing
more, for three quarters (75%), leisure puting professionals, as well as extra time on their business trip. leisure with business travel – or
travel helps them to better manage medical and health workers, love For close to two-thirds (65%), the “bleisure” – remains a hot trend. It’s
work stress and pressure. accommodations with ‘local charm’. opportunity to explore a city they interesting to see the differences in
Not surprisingly, most prefer A comfortable bed was a top haven’’t visited before was a top how each profession prefers to plan
holidays that allow them to relax priority for Canadian profession- priority and 41% want to spend more and spend their trips and reminds
(50%) and spend time with their als across several industries time in a favourite location. us that offering a diverse range of
family (45%). including health care (77%), gov- Booking.com for Business’ accommodations is key to staying
As for the type of holidays that ernment (76%) and retail (76%). research also suggests that top of mind for Canadian business
Canadian professional prefer, the Over a third (39%) of those in Canadian professionals try to make and leisure travellers.”
survey found that there are some local or national government enjoy the most of a destination when (www.booking.com/business)
Transforming opportunities
Sabre tracks technology trends
shaping tomorrow’s travel industry
It’s safe to say that technology has always been produce change as dramatic as the growth of • Space Tourism – Mars is the final frontier
a driver of change in the travel industry, but the the Internet.” of human travel for our lifetimes, but closer
pace of that change is increasing as the industry to home, commercial and government
is, once again, poised to experience a revolution. competition is heating up as a 21st century
A sample of three trends featured in the 2017
In its latest technology forecast, the 2017 “space race.” It’s not just promising orbiting
Radar Report include:
Radar Report, Sabre Labs evaluates how nine key hotels, but trickle down technologies that will
technologies – like blockchain, neural interfaces • Blockchain – Being hailed as the new bring all corners of the earth closer together.
and space tourism – are reshaping the travel “Internet of Trust,” blockchain is awash in
landscape. innovators looking to transform industries,
As Mark McSpadden, vice-president of governments, commerce and culture. We Says McSpadden: “The next generation will
emerging products and technologies for Sabre look at short- and long-term effects most see a radical transformation of how we live,
Corporation, sees it: “We are in the midst of likely to change the travel landscape. work and play. We see tremendous opportun-
increasingly rapid and dramatic technological • Neural interfaces – When it comes to the ities for businesses to start experimenting with
change, poised to revolutionize how and where mind, there are two very different challenges: and implementing technologies like blockchain,
we travel.” extracting information out and transferring augmented reality and trusted presence to help
McSpadden says that: “Technologies like new information in. Neural interfaces attempt shape a more seamless, safe and personalized
artificial intelligence, neural interfaces and to address one or both challenges, and can do future for travel.”
quantum computing each have the potential to so in either an invasive or non-invasive way. (www.sabre.com/labs/radarreport)
14 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MARCH 5, 2018
0305PG14.indd 14 3/1/2018 3:35:54 PMHotel Insider
5
Continued from page 6
avoid compliance to laws, such as the health and safety
issues and taxation. QUESTIONS
Health and safety is a major concern for the accom-
modation sharing economy, and there is currently little
legislation for enforcement of standards required of
hotels by government. This creates potential unsafe
or unsanitary conditions for travellers, thus currently
many publicly traded companies forbid their employees
from using Airbnb.
Duty of care
With such a focus on duty of care in the travel agent indus-
try, what the liability companies can be responsible for is
tremendous should injury occur, whereas the hotel industry
has been working with partners in the travel sphere for dec-
ades to ensure that all health and safety items are clearly
laid out. Global Business Travel Association has created
standardized templates used by the industry to ensure that
companies and their travel managers are able to easily
understand the important health and safety measures in Continued from page 5 chain. As a community development
place to keep their travellers safe. and without this locally-engineered organization, we understand that a
Another layer to this is the fact that 80% of Airbnb’s technology. significant barrier to success for
rentals in Canada are whole unit rentals and not spare sustainable development is gender
4
rooms in the same house as an owner. A further 30% How can Canadians support inequality. That is why one of our key
of their revenues in Canada are by multi-unit owners women when traveling abroad? areas of focus is fostering women
that are renting out entire home units that are de facto Canadians can support empowerment and greater local deci-
hotels. [Source: Hotel Association of Canada, Sept. 27, women when travelling abroad by sion making by all members of society.
2017] It only makes sense that laws that govern hotels seeking out women-run and -owned Planeterra has also created a means
would apply to these types of rentals operating as businesses. Do your research ahead for women-run non-profits to thrive. In
informal hotels. of time to see if there are social enter- Kandy, Sri Lanka, we’ve partnered with
In terms of taxation, in 2016, the hotel industry’s prises that are supporting female job the Women’s Development Centre, to
contributions to consumer taxes based on room revenues creation, or fostering support for fam- renovate and expand a training café that
were estimated at $2.2 billion. [Source: Hotel Association ilies. One of my favourite things to do employs female entrepreneurs in the
of Canada] Based on Airbnb’s revenue in Canada, the prior to travelling, is seeing if there are region. The proceeds from their co-de-
Canadian economy is missing approximately $85 million local women’s groups that are promot- veloped lunch program with Planeterra
in taxes and fees that would be payable by Airbnb. ing female-led tours. When shopping or is anticipated to be visited by 3,000
visiting a market, support enterprises G Adventures travellers this year alone.
What about agents? and market stalls that are being run by The proceeds from this meal service will
From the travel industry perspective, the hotel segment
of the business is one of the last partners not to restrict
or cut travel agent commissions for bookings received.
Airbnb currently has no commission program to travel
agents for accommodation bookings thus rendering “Ca
“Canadians
Ca can support women when travelling abroad
the entire community obsolete from their business
standpoint.
by seeking out women-run and owned businesses.”
Part of the value of travel agents is that they are trusted
by their clients, whether corporate or leisure, to furnish them
with knowledgeable advice that is relevant to their needs,
with a diverse scope of criteria, i.e. safety, health, security, a woman, often-enough, supporting support a shelter for abused women and
amenities, location, etc., so the client makes informed deci- a female entrepreneur has the ripple other women training and empowerment
sions for their travel and accommodation needs. effects of supporting her family’s needs programs run by our partners.
It is difficult to see how this value-added service that as well. Planeterra also recently partnered
travel agents provide for clients aligns in any way currently with Penduka, a women-owned and
5
with platforms like Airbnb. Maybe you can tell our read- -run social business in the Katutura
How can an agency trust and stake its reputation with ers what Planeterra is all about Township outside of Windhoek, which
clients on non-vetted accommodation that doesn’t com- and some of its initiatives that employs at-risk women mostly living
ply with much stricter regulation that hotels conform to? empower women around the world – for in the surrounding townships with no
As a segment of the travel industry, the Canadian and example, the recently launched Sthree schooling background and no access
global hotel providers simply seek to have governments Craft Shop and Café in Sri Lanka and to secure jobs or those suffering from
provide an equal playing field in terms of taxation and Penduka in Namibia. chronic illness or disabilities. Along
health and safety. 191,600 full-time employees in Canada Planeterra is a non-profit organiza- with direct employment, the handicraft
(and partners of the travel agencies) depend on our gov- tion that helps empower local people cooperative also contracts the services
ernment modernizing and adapting legislation to reflect to develop their communities, conserve of more than 300 women from around
the true state of today’s accommodation providers. their cultures, and create humane and the country for handicraft creation. We
supportive systems for their endeav- partnered with Penduka to bring more
Eric Barber is the senior director, national sales for ours. Our mission is to improve people’s customers to their restaurant, and are
Realstar Hospitality, and he contributes a monthly column lives by creating and supporting social helping them develop take-out options
to Canadian Travel Press that offers an insider’s look at the enterprises that bring under-served for travellers leaving Windhoek on their
hotel industry. communities into the tourism value way to nearby safari reserves.
MARCH 5, 2018 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • 15
0305PG05-06-15.indd 15 3/1/2018 3:02:58 PMYou can also read
