EXOTIC. PRIVATE. ROMANTIC - So So So - TravelPress
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Week of May 20, 2019
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So EXOTIC.
So PRIVATE.
So ROMANTIC.
®
0520PG01.indd 1 2019-05-16 12:52:16 PM
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Week of May 20, 2019
Digital transformation means
we have to unlearn the
recipe that made this
industry successful
in past decades, and
carriers must move
from legacy services
to a full digital
offering to give
customers the
experience
they expect.
Digital transformation
It’s all about giving
customers what they want
Is
MIKE DUNBAR the recipe that made this industry successful in past decades, and carriers
must move from legacy services to a full digital offering to give customers
disintermediation heading for the mainline aviation indus- the experience they expect.”
try, cutting the retail travel trade out of the relationship That overall experience is currently being moulded by digital players
between the world’s major carriers and their customers? such as Google, Apple, Facebook and Amazon, while outfi ts such as Uber,
That was the question that lurked in the background Airbnb and Google Flights are expanding their footprint across the customer
of a recent press presentation on “changing the passenger experience via travel experience; raising customers’ expectations of their interactions with
digital change” delivered by Eric Leopold, IATA’s director of financial and airlines, he stated.
distribution services transformation. And he added that digital retailers have managed to build trust by
Leopold told reporters, “Digital transformation means we have to unlearn offering a seamless shopping experience with zero-click payment and
See DIGITAL page 4
0520PG03-04.indd 3 2019-05-16 2:26:01 PM
caution; starting with what value they
can add to customers, rather than bet-
ting the future on one or the other blocks
in the value chain.”
A NEW ORDER
Meanwhile, during his Geneva pres-
entation, Leopold pointed out that IATA
itself is working on a range of initiatives
designed to improve the passenger
experience.
He explained, “The fulfilment of orders
started with paper tickets, which were
then automated with electronic tickets.
DIGITAL In the future, there will be no need for
tickets: There will just be ONE Order.”
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
He added, “Customers are used to
paying with credit cards, which were
automated into electronic wallets. In the
Demand rises, future, bank accounts will be connected
directly, and there will be instant pay-
but at real-time information as the new status quo
ments for those who don’t want to use
credit cards. IATA will offer an instant payment
for digital purchases. solution called IATA Pay.”
slower pace And he explained, “In the past, passengers
A DIGITAL FUTURE had to check in for a flight and get a paper
IATA reports that March
2019 traffic results
showing that demand (measured
“Those expectations have become the new
normal and more and more, customers are
boarding pass, which was automated into the
mobile boarding pass. In the future, passen-
gers will be identified using One ID without
in revenue passenger kilometres, expecting airlines to provide the same level of check-in or boarding pass.”
or RPKs) rose 3.1%, compared to service,” Leopold argued. According to Leopold “not all airlines will
the same month a year ago, which He declared, “Digital transformation is move at the same pace in the digital revolution,
key to the future growth of the industry,” and but all understand that digital transformation
was the slowest pace for any month
advised that, in the short-term, enhanced cannot be avoided.”
in nine years.
processes such as automation and new pro- He said “Some airlines are moving to
Those results are due largely cesses should be looked at, while, in the mid- digital projects, while others are still operating
to the timing of the Easter holiday, term new distribution and payment capabil- as airlines, but have created digital labs or
which fell nearly a month later than ities should be addressed, and further down incubators on top of their core activity. The
in 2018. On a seasonally-adjusted the road even a change in business model most advanced airlines tend to define them-
basis, the underlying growth rate has could be in the cards. selves as ‘digital companies fl ying airplanes’
been relatively steady since October “What about Air Uber,” asked Leopold. or as giant start-ups.”
2018 at a 4.1% annualized pace. A CTP request for the transformation expert Those are the leaders of the digital trans-
to expand on the possible effects on the retail formation in the airline industry.
Capacity (available seat kilometres
travel sector was obligingly met by the vaca- In his message from Nepal, Leopold told
or ASKs) for the month of March
tioning Leopold, who found a fake Starbucks CTP, “Over the past three decades, airlines
grew 4.2% and load factor dropped
with WiFi in Lukla, Nepal – the start point for have used technology to automate physical or
0.9 by to 81.7%. treks to the base camp of Mount Everest. legacy processes, from revenue management
Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s He texted, “Two decades ago, the Inter- and distribution to finance and ground ops.”
director general and CEO, noted net promised to enable direct sales and to “However, some of the constraints of
that: “While traffic growth slowed remove all intermediaries across all indus- current processes are related to old physical
considerably in March, we do not tries. Today, intermediaries in air travel rep- or technical limitations. For instance, airline
see the month as a bellwether for resent roughly 50% of bookings with online prices fall into 26 buckets because there are 26
the rest of 2019. Nevertheless, the bookings on the rise.” letters in the alphabet and buckets are coded
“The Internet revolution took place and on one letter.”
economic backdrop has become
strengthened intermediaries that went online And he declared, “Unlearning means for-
somewhat less favourable, with the
for the simple reason that they added value to getting how we have been doing things, such
IMF having recently revised its GDP the customer experience.” as pricing in buckets, not because they don’t
outlook downward for a fourth time And he added reassuringly, “We would work, but because technology enables us to
in the past year.” be wise to treat new technologies with reinvent processes and because customers
However, IATA notes that despite expect seamless, personalized experiences
March’s slowdown, the outlook that are available in other industries today.”
for air travel remains solid. Global
connectivity has never been better.
Consumers can choose from more The Internet revolution took place and
than 21,000 city pair combinations
on more than 125,000 daily flights.
strengthened intermediaries that went
And airfares continue to decline in online for the simple reason that they
real terms.
added value to the customer experience.
4 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MAY 20, 2019
0520PG03-04.indd 4 2019-05-16 2:31:25 PM
HAVANA played host
to this year's FITCuba
tourism show, a fitting
venue as the city is this
year marking its 500th
anniversary. Among those
on hand for the event were:
one. Cubatur guide
Betsy Olivares Betancourt
is seen here with Lazaro
Torres Betancourt,
Cubatur's director general.
two. Carrying the
one flag for Sunwing were
two
Jordi Pelfort (l) and Eric
Rodriguez.
three. The Barcelo
Hotel Group was out in
force. Among those on
hand representing it were
Roberto Marty (l) and Rick
McCauley.
four. Luis Viamontes
Borras (r) was happy to
tell people what an inter-
esting part of the world
Camaguey is for visitors.
He's seen here with Miguel
Hernandez Fernandez of
Gestour Travel & Events.
three four
Havana milestone has Cubans
upbeat about tourism prospects
IAN STALKER said “cruises will continue to be a supplement” to hotels.
Marrero listed a number of tourism attributes found in his homeland,
It would take an awful lot of birthday cake candles to accurately reflect among them nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 14 national parks and
the number of centuries Havana is celebrating this year. seven cities that are 500 or more years old.
Cuba’s largest city is now marking 500 years of existence, and Cuban He reported that more hotel rooms are in the works for Cuba, and his
tourism authorities are hopeful that ongoing tributes to the civic mile- government is working to eliminate plastics from Cuban tourism, with
stone will help the Latin country set a new record for tourist arrivals. Cuba joining other Caribbean destinations in undertaking the environ-
Cuban tourism minister Manuel Marrero said during the May 6 open- mental measure.
ing of the country’s annual tourism show FITCuba that Cuba last year Marrero also stated that those visiting his country “can walk the
welcomed 4.7 million visitors, a 1% increase despite lingering concerns streets safely at any time,” something visitors appreciate.
among some travellers in early 2018 that parts of its north coast were Cuba’s tourist trade was largely built around its many beaches, but the
still recovering from 2017 hurricane damage. country has been working to diversify its tourism product, among other
The country hopes to host 5 million tourists this year, with Marrero things promoting ecotourism in a country Marrero noted was described
telling his Havana audience that Cuba reached the 2 million mark by Christopher Columbus as “the most beautiful land that human eyes
earlier this year than it did last year, fuelling optimism about a possible have ever seen.”
record-breaking 2019. Meanwhile, Havana was praised as an “extraordinary place” during
Nov. 16 is the actual date Cuba’s capital turns 500 but Marrero told his the same opening ceremony by Spanish tourism minister Maria Reyes
FITCuba Havana audience tourists can find tributes to the anniversary Maroto, who noted it has structures from “the 16th century to modernity...
throughout this year. the island has a great cultural heritage.”
“It is no longer [just] Nov. 16,” he said. “It is every day.” Ongoing Spanish hotel investment in Cuba demonstrates the confi -
Marrero noted that Old Havana has received UNESCO World Herit- dence Spanish hotel chains have in Cuban tourism, she added.
age Site status, with the restored district becoming hugely popular Meanwhile, Maroto denounced attempts by the US government to
with visitors. choke Cuba’s economy as “contrary to international law” and said Cuba
He reported that Cuba saw 850,000 cruise passengers last year and can “count on the support of Spain,” as it resists the American moves.
MAY 20, 2019 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • 5
0520PG05.indd 5 2019-05-16 1:02:25 PM
OF
TRAVEL
Finding the best property for family
vacations can sometimes pose a
PODCAST WITH dilemma for travel agents. Parents
want to have some free time on their
RON PRADINUK own, while active children can keep
them running for the entire duration
of the holiday.
The decision of where to stay
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and sometimes critical, if there are
serious food allergies that have to For adults, large wedding groups, or children, Palladium
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And, in that respect, the Palladium Hotel Listeners will also discover why Palladium
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In this week’s Voices of Travel, host Ron
vacations and why wedding and celebration
groups often choose them because of many of
these dedicated programs.
family fun
Pradinuk talks with Sonia Casaubon, Palladium’s So take a listen and find out more about The
Business Development for Canada. Palladium Hotel Group – you can check it out at
You’ll hear how some of their properties https://www.travelpress.com/palladium-makes-
have dealt with these issues – but more import- family-fun-part-of-the-experience/.
part of the
antly, you’ll learn how their Kid’s Clubs, iconic Baxter Media’s Voices of Travel podcast series
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allow parents to enjoy time out, while Palladium taining its listeners with stories of some of the
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the travel and tourism industry in Canada and
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Vol. 51, No. 33
6 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MAY 20, 2019
0520PG06.indd 6 2019-05-16 2:32:09 PM
The Helms-Burton
T R A V E L A W
Act: Past, Present
and Future
In recent weeks, the travel trade press has been full of articles about the Helms-Burton Act
(the Act). This brief summary is intended to address its past, present and future.
PAST surprisingly, many governments (including Canada) and busi-
Officially titled the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity nesses around the world objected to this attempt by the US to
Act, the Act is part of the longstanding American embargo on extend its reach into jurisdictions beyond its own borders.”
Doug Crozier Cuban trade and commerce, dating from the Cuban Revolution Meanwhile, the first lawsuits under Title III were launched
of 1959. The Act was passed during the Clinton Era (1996), within weeks. Carnival Cruise Lines is the target of actions
with the strong support of the Cuban émigré community in launched by those claiming ownership rights (allegedly
Florida. Many of them, or their ancestors, had properties violated by Castro) in the docks in Havana and in Santiago de
seized by Fidel Castro. Cuba. No doubt other actions will follow.
Among other things, the Act (i) allows US citizens to sue
foreign companies in the US courts for compensation related
to properties appropriated by the Castro regime (Title III) and FUTURE
(ii) allows for the denial of US visas to anyone benefiting from
the use of those properties, including shareholders and execu- Lawsuits (especially in the US Courts) take years to wend
Tim Law tives of such companies (Title IV). their way to a conclusion. During that time, governments can
It was largely targeted at non-American subsidiaries of US change and, with them, US policies.
multinationals, the thinking being that American businesses We predict that most travel, mining and other companies
might be inclined to use their off-shore subsidiaries to circum- impacted by Title III will stay-put, and carry on business as
vent the embargo that they themselves faced. usual for the foreseeable future. That is certainly the initial
Not surprisingly, many governments (including Canada) response of non-American companies.
and businesses around the world objected to this attempt by Much like the cruise ships owned by companies possibly
the US to extend its reach into jurisdictions beyond its own impacted by the recent American change of course, it is diffi -
borders. In doing so, they acted consistently with their oppos- cult for a company with a huge investment in the Cuban econ-
ition to the US’s 1992 “Cuban Democracy Act,” which exhibited omy to change its course quickly, even if it wanted to do so.
similar extraterritorial reach. A UN motion opposing that stat- Few will start that years-long process until they see a bit
ute garnered 59 votes of support and only three in opposition more of the future, and get a sense of how strong Title III’s
(with 71 countries abstaining). staying power might prove to be.
In our current era of a muscle-flexing Executive Branch Common sense will also play a role.
of the US government, and a largely-compliant Legislative Back in 1996, the Canadian Parliament amended a 1985
Branch, it is important to note that the Act was spearheaded statute by way of a specific response to that year’s passage of
by a pair of Republican legislators (Mr. Helms was a Senator the Act. The Foreign Extraterritorial Measures Act (i) obliges
from North Carolina, and Mr. Burton a Representative from a company whose business with (e.g.) Cuba is negatively
Indiana) and was, in fact, opposed by the White House. impacted by the need to comply with the laws (e.g. the Act)
As a result, President Clinton availed himself of the of another country (e.g. the USA) to report such fact to the
opportunity to defer the implementation of Title III for a Canadian government, and (ii) forbids Canadian companies
six-month period. (and their officers, directors, staff, etc.) from complying with
A Democrat, he did so repeatedly, leaving Title III in legal such foreign rules that cause that negative impact to occur.
limbo. So did his successors, Bush the Younger (Republican) Catch 22 ... complying with a US law will run one afoul of a
and Obama (Democrat). Likewise, Trump (Republican), until Canadian law, and vice versa. Costly, and seemingly endless,
the end of the most recent six-month deferral. litigation could ensue, leading to no real change as a result.
Similar “antidote laws” exist in Mexico, Japan and the EU.
The Act ought not be ignored.
PRESENT There are certainly things that ought to be done now by
companies dealing first-hand with Cuba. But it is apt to take
In mid-April of 2019, the US Administration announced that some time, if ever, for Title III to have a discernible impact on
the rolling deferral would not be continued. Title III of the Act travel to Cuba by Canadians and other non-Americans.
would be allowed to take effect when the then-current defer-
ral ended. Properties potentially impacted by this decision Heifetz, Crozier, Law is a Toronto law firm that has for years
include Jose Marti International Airport and most of Cuba’s represented all aspects of the Canadian travel industry. The
docking areas for cruise ships and the sites of many of the lawyers at HCL also maintain a non-travel practice, covering
island’s hotels. litigation, real estate, Wills, corporate/commercial matters, etc.
As a result, (to quote the third paragraph of this article) “Not To contact HCL, e-mail info@hclaw.com.
MAY 20, 2019 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • 7
0520PG07.indd 7 2019-05-16 1:46:55 PM
It's business as usual for WestJet
a message to its industry part- growing network.” The transaction is to be completed by
ners, following the block- The definitive agreement was announced way of an arrangement under the Business
In
buster announcement that early last week and sees Onex Corporation Corporations Act (Alberta). Completion of the
it was being acquired by and its affiliated funds acquiring all out- transaction is subject to a number of conditions,
Onex Corporation, WestJet standing shares of WestJet for $31 per including court and shareholder approval and
makes it clear that it will share, after which WestJet will operate as receipt of certain regulatory approvals, including
be “business as usual” as it a privately-held company. The transaction approval under the Canada Transportation Act.
“continues its transformation.” value is approximately $5 billion including The approval under the Canada Transporta-
The company says that the assumed debt. tion Act involves a determination by the
sale, which has been approved by its board Commenting on the deal, WestJet’s founder Minister of Transport which entails an assess-
of directors, will see WestJet benefiting from and chairman, Clive Beddoe said: “Since our ment of the public interest as it relates to
“Onex’s aerospace experience, history of first flight in 1996, WestJet has been singularly national transportation.
positive employee relations and long-term focused on providing better options for the Assuming the timely receipt of regulatory
orientation,” noting that Onex is “investing in Canadian travelling public, and this transaction approvals, the transaction is expected to close
WestJet’s culture, its leadership, its values, retains that commitment.” in the latter part of 2019 or early 2020.
its people and its strategy.” Onex managing director, Tawfiq Popatia WestJet expects to mail an information
observed that: “WestJet is one of Canada’s circular in late June 2019 for a special meeting
With this transaction, WestJet will: strongest brands, and we have tremendous of its shareholders expected to be held in July
Remain headquartered in Calgary. respect for the business that Clive Beddoe and 2019 to approve the transaction.
Uphold its mission, values, employee engage- all WestJetters have built over the years.” Further details regarding the terms of the
ment and unrivalled guest experience. While WestJet’s president and CEO, Ed transaction are set out in the arrangement
Invest in WestJet’s fleet of modern, fuel-ef- Sims stated: “We are delighted to continue the agreement, which will be publicly filed by
ficient aircraft scheduled to be delivered in journey of building an airline based on a grow- WestJet under its profile at www.sedar.com.
coming years. ing network, providing competitive airfares Additional information regarding the terms
Remain a key enabler of the visitor and tourism and more choice to, from and within Canada, of the arrangement agreement and the back-
economy and an important source of economic for communities large and small. Integral to ground of the transaction will be provided in the
development and connectivity for Canada, this relationship is a commitment to information circular for the special meeting of
continuing to serve its existing ports. our employees, and our unique shareholders.
S
Remain committed as ever to the ownership-driven culture.” Go to www.westjet.com for more.
safety of employees, guests and avi-
ation partners.
WestJet also notes that its travel
KYLINK
partners will: welcomes the
Continue to enjoy the same unparalleled trade in YVR
experience from WestJet.
Flight tickets/vacation packages are still Travel agents turned out
valid. Partners will not see any flight purchases for the Vancouver edi-
impacted. tion of the SkyLink 2019
There will be no changes to any current part- Road Show at the Hilton
ner agreements. Vancouver Metrotown,
There will be no changes in flight schedule or and some of them were
routes as a direct result of this transaction. lucky prize winners.
There are no changes to the frequent-flyer Amongst them were Clara
program and credit card partnership. Castaneda of Fernweh
There are no changes to WestJet Vacations. Travel Travel (2nd from
left), who won flight tickets from South African Airlines, and was joined by (l-r) Sonal
And the message concludes that the Sharma of South African Airways, Janet Alkobi, general manager of SkyLink and
“transaction is about giving WestJet and Sudarshan Jagannathan, director of Trippro.
you, as a trusted travel partner, a continued
8 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MAY 20, 2019
0520PG08.indd 8 2019-05-16 4:25:53 PM
THIS ISN’T VACATION DAYS SPENT. THIS IS BRAGGING RIGHTS EARNED.
It’s a place where your clients can conquer the Caribbean’s largest wave pool and tallest waterslide,
Daredevil’s Peak SM . Snap a shot from up to 450 feet high in a helium balloon. Or escape miles away from
ordinary among the crystal clear waters and powdery sands of Chill Island SM . Plus little adventurers
can have big buckets of fun at the largest Splashaway Bay SM aqua park yet. And there’s more to come in
December when Coco Beach ClubSM opens, with an oceanfront infinity pool and overwater cabanas.
This is Perfect Day at CocoCay. Only on Royal Caribbean ® .
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Images and messaging for Perfect Day at CocoCay reflect current design concepts and may include artistic renderings. All destination features and experiences, and related delivery timing for these features, are currently in development and are subject to change without notice. Perfect Day and CocoCay
are trademarks of Royal Caribbean. ©2019 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships’ registry: The Bahamas. 19067462 • 4/8/2019
0520PG09.indd 8 5/15/2019 12:20:30 PM
GROWING DEMAND
ITBC launches new
CANADA programs, initiatives in 2019
2019
Photos courtesy/ ITBC
is going to be a banner year for Indigenous Tourism that: “Indigenous tourism plays an important role in demonstrating the rich-
BC (ITBC) as it launches new initiatives to support the increasing demand ness of Canada’s people and cultures. By working together with Indigenous
for authentic Indigenous tourism product across British Columbia. Tourism BC to promote authentic Indigenous experiences for visitors, we’re
To start with, ITBC has revitalized the Authentic Indigenous designation able to harness the full potential of our tourism sector and create new eco-
program, which was introduced seven years ago as Authentic Aboriginal. nomic opportunities for all Canadians.”
Intended to build on unprecedented growth of Indigenous tourism across Mike Willie, owner, Sea Wolf Adventures, said: “This is such an important
the province, the program’s launch coincides with the launch of ITBC’s program for Indigenous tourism businesses, and we are grateful that ITBC
refreshed website and online platform. has chosen to renew it. When travellers see businesses like ourselves have
Now updated and revitalized from its first iteration in 2012, the Authentic been awarded the Authentic Indigenous designation, they can rest assured
Indigenous designation is granted to key Stakeholders who offer compel- their experience will be authentic, culturally appropriate and transformative.”
ling, culturally appropriate Indigenous tourism experiences. The program’s return follows ITBC’s release of its three-year Tourism
Brenda Baptiste, Chair, Indigenous Tourism BC, observed: “ITBC is very Performance Audit Report in October 2018, which showed record-breaking
excited to reintroduce the Authentic Indigenous program. We are seeing growth for BC’s Indigenous tourism industry.
unprecedented growth of Indigenous tourism The report’s findings include a notable 33%
across the province, as well as continued increase of Indigenous tourism-related busi-
demand for authentic cultural experiences.” nesses operating in 2016-17 over 2014, and an
The designation helps travellers identify estimated $705 million gross domestic output
these experiences throughout the province generated by Indigenous businesses.
and acknowledges they are contributing to It also indicated 36% of travellers surveyed
the preservation of local Indigenous cultures had visited Indigenous sites, attractions or
and languages. events on previous trips to BC, while 89% of
And Baptiste pointed out that along with tour operators would consider offering or
inspiring “consumer confidence in local expanding their Indigenous experiences to
tourism experiences,” it is also designed to meet demand.
provide businesses “with an additional market- In further support of Indigenous tourism
ing tool that we believe will lead to increased growth and marketing, ITBC recently unveiled
awareness and bookings.” a new consumer website featuring rich digital
Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, storytelling from thriving and inspirational
Science and Economic Development and Indigenous cultures in BC.
Minister Responsible for Western Economic Paired with a new series called “Living
Diversification Canada, said that: “Our govern- Legends,” which documents remarkable individ-
ment is working hard to ensure Canadians have uals who dedicate themselves to the resurgence
“
the tools they need to become more competi- and revitalization of local Indigenous cultures, the
tive and succeed in the global economy. This website is poised to contribute to another banner
is why we’re supporting Indigenous Tourism year for Indigenous tourism across the province.
BC: to build on its success as an Indigenous To receive the Authentic Indigenous designa-
tourism pioneer by revitalizing initiatives that We are seeing unprecedented growth of tion, tourism businesses must be Indigenous-
boost economic growth and create well-paying Indigenous tourism across the province, owned and operated, offer quality Indigenous
jobs for Canadians.” as well as continued demand for cultural content, and practice sustainability that
Mélanie Joly, Federal Minister of Tourism, authentic cultural experiences. protects both culture and environment.
Official Languages and La Francophonie, noted For more, go to www.IndigenousBC.com.
10 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MAY 20, 2019
0520PG10.indd 10 2019-05-16 1:04:30 PMA Global Network of Hotels That Work For You!
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0520PG11.indd 11 2019-05-16 2:58:30 PMReason for celebration
Former
Yugotours
staff reunite
e
in Croatia Former Yugotours employees from over 10 countries gather for a picture during
grand reunion in Croatia in early May.
WOLF PAUNIC Polesini, and much more. The organizers of the reunion were Joanne
President, Trafalgar Tours In the 1980s, Yugotours sent close to Purssell and Jill Jackson from the United
500,000 holidaymakers a year from the Kingdom who worked at Yugotours’ head
In early May, over 100 former Yugotours staff United Kingdom to the countries of the former office. As well as, Dragan Djordjevic and
gathered in the famous resort of Porec, on Yugoslavia – mainly to present-day Croatia, Rajko Macura from the former Yugoslavia and
the Istrian coast of present-day Croatia, for a Slovenia, and Montenegro. Travellers were who had various roles including enthusiastic
massive reunion more than two decades after attracted by short flights, fantastic coastlines, holiday representatives.
the company closed. From May 3 to May 6, past attractions and superb value for money. “So many of us have stayed in touch over
staff travelled from Australia, Canada, Germany, The tour operator was known for its all these years, and we have always said
Italy, Sweden, Austria, Czech Republic, Serbia, extremely thick and colourful holiday bro- we would do this grand reunion,” explained
Croatia, and Bosnia-Herzegovin for a four-day, chure, specialist staff with in-depth know- Joanne Purssell.
action-packed reunion program. ledge of the former Yugoslavia and great And Purssell continued: “It has taken serious
Highlights on the grand reunion included relations with travel agents. planning with people coming from far and
a cocktail party, a boat trip to Rovinj via the With its head office on Regent Street wide, and we are all delighted to once again be
famous Lim Fjord, a gala dinner in elegant Villa in London and a busy branch office in together to talk about the old days; and they
Manchester, Yugotours was one of the travel really were good days because Yugotours was a
agent’s favourites with regular regional road fantastic company to work for.”
X marks the park shows and promotions.
In 1995, however, Yugotours was closed due
“Customers who enjoyed Adriatic holidays
booked again and again, and travel agents
to the break-up of the former Yugoslavia and hugely supported the company – there was a
Xavage
the conflict which followed. fantastic spirit,” she concluded.
teaches
Xenotes and Xichen, respectively.
The latest addition to Xcaret’s Mexican Caribbean coast parks is Xavage, which Xcaret’s Iliana
Rodriguez says includes the Howler Monkey rope course, which may have participants reach
heights of up to 40 metres above ground and features “four levels of difficulty,” each of them
families
named after a primate – Spider Monkey, Chimpanzee, Orangutan and Gorilla level.
Spider Monkey is the easiest, while Gorilla is the most challenging, designed for those who
are very fit.
And Rodriguez says Xavage is quite comfortable seeing visitors push themselves if need be.
the ropes “The philosophy of this park is, ‘We know you can do more than you think and we will prove
that to you in the park,’” she says.
Other Xavage features include the Hawk zip-line, the Dragonfly jetboat and Barracuda rafting,
with Barracuda offering the longest manmade river rafting anywhere, Rodriguez reports.
IAN STALKER The rafting is a Level 3 on the rafting grade scale.
Rodriguez is also quick to note that Xcaret’s offerings also include the Hotel Xcaret Mexico,
Mexico’s Grupo Xcaret is inviting people to with guests at “the All-Fun Inclusive” property receiving the likes of not only food and beverages in
engage in some X-rated family activities. its bars and restaurants, but also entrance to the different parks and the tours, as well.
Xcaret has nine parks and tours on Mexico’s She notes that Xcaret, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, and Xenses are all within walking distance of the
Caribbean coast, each eager to host families hotel, while those planning to visit Xel-Ha, Xoxmimilco and Xavage can reach them by shuttle.
and all beginning with the letter X. “You can walk, you can bike or you can go in a shuttle,” depending on the park that will be
Indeed, even its tours that showcase cenotes visited, she reports.
– the underground water bodies found through The all-suite hotel has different categories of suites, including swim-up units.
the Yucatan – and excursions to the Mayan Kayaking and paddle-boarding are among hotel guest activities.
archeological site of Chichen Itza – are labelled More information can be found at xcaret.com.
12 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MAY 20, 2019
0520PG12.indd 12 2019-05-16 1:01:09 PM“
WTTC lauches human Human
Hum
Huma a trafficking is a devastating, widespread
trafficking task force
and critical
c issue that unfortunately relies on
travel and tourism networks to operate.
The World Travel & Tourism Commenting on the widespread and critical issue power to help eradicate the vital taskforce comprised
Council (WTTC) has formed formation of the taskforce, that unfortunately relies on problem, so that people may of the world's most power-
a global taskforce to help WTTC president and CEO, travel and tourism networks move freely and safely across ful travel leaders.”
prevent and combat human Gloria Guevara said: “Human to operate. As a sector, we the globe, but never coerced. Go to www.wttc.org
trafficking – an illicit activity trafficking is a devastating, must do everything in our “I am proud to launch this for more.
that affects 30 million vic-
tims worldwide, and relies on
travel networks to operate.
The taskforce comprises
WTTC members and sector
associations, becoming the
first global industry-wide
initiative to assert zero toler-
ance and share best practice.
As an industry, human
trafficking is worth $150 bil-
lion annually and contributes
heavily to modern slavery,
in which 40 million people
worldwide are entrapped.
One-quarter of trafficking vic-
tims worldwide are children
(or 5.5 million). Meanwhile,
19% of victims are trafficked
for sexual purposes, which
makes up 66% of the illicit
income generated.
Human trafficking is
present virtually everywhere;
yet not all criminalize it in all
its forms.
The WTTC taskforce has
thus been established for the
purposes of:
Prevention: to increase
industry and consumer
awareness of human traf-
ficking. It is proven the more
we know the more can be
prevented.
Protection: to train employ-
ees and travellers on how to
identify and report suspected
cases.
Action: to encourage
governments to enact
legislation which recognizes
human trafficking as a crime
throughout the entire chain
and develop resources and
We’re here to get you there.
support needed, such as
national hotlines. Choose from an exciting array of reward options like restaurant
Support: to provide assist-
ance, employability training and retail gift cards, or choose items for your home or office
and employment opportun-
ities to survivors.
when you book your clients rental vehicles with Hertz.
The founding members of
the taskforce include Airbnb, Not an Agent Gold Rewards member yet?
Amex GBT, The Bicester
Village Shopping Collection, Join today at agentgoldrewards.com
Ctrip.com International,
CWT, Emirates, Expedia
Group, Hilton, JTB Corp, hertz.ca
Las Vegas Convention & Visit www.agentgoldrewards.com for details and terms.
Visitor Authority, Marriott ®
Registered Trademark of Hertz System, Inc., Used Under License. ©2019 Hertz System, Inc.
International, Silversea,
Thomas Cook, and TUI.
MAY 20, 2019 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • 13
0520PG13.indd 13 2019-05-16 2:32:38 PMwhere in the world
While it might seem like a
remnant of the Victorian era,
this steam clock was actually
built in 1977 by horologist
Raymond Saunders and metal-
work specialist Doug Smith
as a monument in this section
of this Canadian city's down-
town. Every quarter hour, the WHERE
two-ton clock entertains visitors,
whistling and shooting steam WAS THAT
from its five whistles in its version
of the Westminster Chime. On
the hour, it marks each hour
with a toot from each whistle.
Where in the World is it?
Please send your answer to:
“Where in the World?”
to ctp@baxter.net
The following identified the March 25 “Where In The World” as Horseshoe Bay Beach, Bermuda:
Shirley Hulleman, BOB’S cruises & tours; Timothy Edgecombe, Rosewood Washington; Judy
Sherban, Kemp Travel; Brent Morris, Triplink.ca; Helen Cremasco, Expedia CruiseshipCenters;
G.Humes, Innovative Displays; Katherine Hirtzel, Carlson Wagonlit; Barb Hricina, CWT Concierge;
Veronika Andrasofszky, New Wave Travel; Doris Argouin, Vasco La Caravelle Travel; Julie Hare,
Transat; Hymie Lebowitz, YYZ Travel; Kabir Khurana, American Express; Patty Roy, Hosted Villas;
Céline Moskovitz, Maison de Voyages; Linda Goodick, Transat Travel; LeAnn Marutkyn, Maritime
Travel; Susan Hopkins, Advantage Intravel; Nancy Orfeo, American Express.
14 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • MAY 20, 2019
0520PG14.indd 14 2019-05-16 2:32:59 PMA S I A
Holland America
PACIFIC
helps agents sell the
HOLLAND AMERICA LINE
Academy continues to expand
its global sales education with
the launch of a new specialist
'LANDS DOWNUNDER'
course focusing on the lands
of koalas, kiwis and lush tropi- America Line offers
cal islands. cruises all over the
The program was developed world, and we want our
to help travel advisors increase travel advisors to have
their cruise sales by giving a deep understanding
insider tips and tools around of what makes us the
region-specific itineraries, right choice for their
“Australia, New Zealand & South clients in each destina-
Pacific: A World Away.” tion we sail.”
Selling the Wonders in the Jenner observed:
Lands Down Under and the “Australia, New
Islands of the South Pacific is Zealand and South
now available on GoHAL.com. Pacific cruises are
The Australia, New Zealand bucket-list vaca-
& South Pacific course takes tions, and this new
approximately 20 minutes Holland America Line
to complete and includes Academy specialist
information about the advan- course enables travel
tages of a Holland America advisors to success-
Line cruise. fully sell these itiner-
Travel advisors will learn aries that often yield
Photo courtesy/ TOURISM AUSTRALIA
how to identify and sell to the higher commissions.”
best prospects, describe the Retailers will find the courses on Holland America In addition to a diploma, lapel pin and luggage tag,
itineraries and make recommen- Line’s travel advisor website, GoHAL.com, giving them rewards include a US$50 shipboard credit on Travel
dations. The course also shares an enhanced training experience featuring Silver, Gold Advisor Appreciation or full fares and priority boarding.
the top reasons why Holland and Platinum reward levels. The Holland America Line Holland America Line Academy courses are designed
America Line is unique among Academy platform encourages travel advisors to com- to offer learning through a combination of video instruc-
premium cruise lines for these plete more courses and earn rewards. tion, reading and interaction.
itineraries, which advisors can Through GoHAL.com, travel advisors who graduate By completing the courses, travel advisors earn train-
share with their clients. from the Holland America Line Academy Core Courses ing credits with Cruise Lines International Association, as
Eva Jenner, vice president earn Silver Level; those who continue on and complete well as The Travel Institute, for US travel advisors or the
of sales for Holland America two of the Specialist Courses earn Gold; and completing Association of Canadian Travel Agencies.
Line, pointed out that: “Holland three Specialist Courses earns Platinum. Sail on over to www.GoHAL.com for more.
Foodies can enjoy Silk Holidays Thai trips
SILK HOLIDAYS says it’s the destination’s tourism offering many types of health-conscious eaters, also offers “bargain beach
carved out a niche as an income,” Fan continues. cooking classes available bike and cook with buy- getaways, island hopping,
Asia specialist, including “While promoting many from all of the major cities ing your own produce and long-stays, guided sight-
Thailand, where among of our tour programs and in Thailand, foodie tours cooking it at the spot, local seeing tours, and more
other things Silk Holidays services to Thailand, thriving where bringing you to some Thai home cultural dinner programs.”
clients will have opportun- to enrich local experiences of the hidden areas to taste experiences and mingling Visit www.silkholi
ities to try its famed cuisine has become very import- the best local tours, organic with the locals.” days.com or contact
in different settings. ant for our guests. We are farm visits for many of our Fan adds that his company 1-888-800-SILK.
“We are committed to
providing the latest update
and travel trends into Asia,”
says Kenny Fan, the com-
pany’s assistant manager of
sales & Marketing. “Culinary
tourism in Thailand has
become an important sec-
tion for Thailand tourism.
It is right behind shopping
and accommodations for
MAY 20, 2019 • CANADIAN TRAVEL PRESS • 15
0520PG15.indd 15 2019-05-16 4:34:00 PM0520PG16.indd 8 5/16/2019 10:17:31 AM
CANADIAN
1
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