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Inside
ARGENTINA'S Caribbean
www.travelcourier.ca BUENOS AIRES +
& MENDOZA Hawaii
&
West
FEBRUARY 1, 2018
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CONTENTS Noteworthy
REGULAR FEATURES
12 cover story
Awesome Argentina
11 rooms
Accommodating news you can use
A little luxury
20 air from TPI
Travel industry calendar
DESTINATIONS & FEATURES N oteworthy this week – and considering it’s Travel
Courier’s first issue in February – timing is every-
thing, isn’t it?
TPI, late last week, revealed the February launch of
16 caribbean Debut Voyages, describing it as “a new and exciting
It’s always hot, hot, hot! concept in independent travel advisor networks.”
Debut Voyages will be led by Samantha Jervis as
17 australia & south pacific managing director, and it will bring together an exclusive,
Wonders DownUnder and more invitation-only group of the world’s finest travel advisors
and travel providers to deliver “exceptional, immersive and
19 hawaii personal experiences to discerning travellers.”
Lots to discover in the Hawaiian Islands Jervis brings over 26 years of experience and relation-
ships in the luxury travel industry to her new role.
21 river cruising Previously, she has held management positions with
Clear sailing ahead luxury companies such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises,
Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Rosewood Hotels, as well as
other Preferred and Leading Hotels.
“We are thrilled to have Samantha at the helm to
DEPARTMENTS lead Debut Voyages, a new division of IAS, said Morris
Chia, president and CEO of IAS-Independent Agency
Services Corp. – the parent company of TPI, in making the
23 careers announcement.
professional services →www.debutvoyages.com tc
business opportunities
WIN THE ADVENTURE
OF A LIFETIME
Play Bucket List Bingo Full details at
with Exodus Travels exodustravels.com/
agentbingo
february 1, 2018 | travelcourier.ca 5
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ACV HAS EUROPE COVERED FROM A TO Z
Tour operator offers 15% commission on bookings
ian stalker
Air Canada Vacations’ new Europe
program covers Europe from
A(msterdam) to Z(agreb).
The tour operator last week held a
Europe product launch in Toronto that
showcased a vast European region reach-
ing from Iceland to Croatia, with the lat-
ter among new additions to its program.
The tour operator is offering more
than 120 Europe vacation packages,
66 of them new, with agents told that
seven-night European vacation packages
that include air, hotels and transfers are Seeing is believing! Air Canada Vacations’ Dianne Pedroso tries on virtual reality
priced comparably to Caribbean winter goggles that were giving people a look at Air Canada service during Air Canada
all-inclusive holidays of the same length. Vacations’ recent Europe product launch. With Pedroso are ACV’s Carolina Suarez and
Monique Lalonde, ACV’s general members of Air Canada’s flight crew.
manager for Ontario and national
accounts, labelled prices “truly incredible,” with a seven-night ACV is also promoting “lifestyle themes for Europe.”
Irish stay, for instance, offered for $1,439. Lalonde noted they are “super excited” to be offering
George Patanitis, Air Canada Vacations’ vice-president, Uniworld sailings this year.
sales and partnerships, noted the tour operator is offering The tour operator is offering 15% commissions on Europe
different types of packages, including cruise packages that bookings through mid-February.
include air travel. “You will not get a better deal anywhere for Platanitis also promised that agents will find many booking
your air and cruise packages,” he said, adding the tour operator bonuses, and 10 clients now constitutes a group, with the 20th
has “packages for every budget.” continued on page 8
TRAVEL Vol.53 No.5 www.travelcourier.ca
COURIER ® BaxterMedia$" #axter.edia$" CdnTravelPress Baxter.FEJB$"
BAXTERMEDIA
FOUNDER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF PRESIDENT EXECUTIVE V.P. OPERATIONS
W.H. Baxter, 1919-2004 Edith Baxter, ebaxter@baxter.net David McClung, dmcclung@baxter.net Wendy McClung, wmcclung@baxter.net
Bob Mowat, Executive Editor bobmowat@baxter.net SALES & MARKETING: Florida – North: Gillian Harper GHTourismSolutions@gmail.com
Greg D. Coates, Assistant Editor gcoates@baxter.net Earl Lince, Director of International Marketing elince@baxter.net Hawaii: Laurie Doerschlen MdLinks@aol.com
Mike Dunbar, Quebec Editor mdunbar@total.net Rodney Tugwell, Sales Manager rtugwell@baxter.net Central & South America: Lillian Martinez twtrm@earthlink.net
Ted Davis, Western Editor teddavis@baxter.net Mitchell McClung, Account Executive mmcclung@baxter.net Mexico: Anabel Rodríguez arodriguez@towmar.com.mx
Ian Stalker, Senior Writer istalker@baxter.net Daniel McDonald, Classifieds daniel@baxter.net
Ann Ruppenstein, Assistant Editor aruppenstein@baxter.net PRODUCTION:
Western Canada: Terry Ohman ohman@baxter.net Johnny Koo, Art Director johnkoo@baxter.net
Emily McClung, Audience/Product Development Manager Alberta: Greg Ohman greg.ohman@baxter.net Wayne Labourn, Production Manager wlabourn@baxter.net
emcclung@baxter.net Quebec & Atlantic Canada: Rodney Tugwell rtugwell@baxter.net Sharron Taylor, Adv. Material Coordinator staylor@baxter.net
Ashley Rochefort, Marketing & Special Projects Manager USA: Earl Lince elince@baxter.net Dragana Lekovic-Lucic, Senior Design Manager
arochefort@baxter.net Florida – South: Dino Torres t_dino@bellsouth.net Wayne McDonald, Michael Mouatt, Production Artists
Dee Ristic, Circulation dristic@baxter.net
TRAVEL COURIER is published weekly by Baxter Media at 310 Dupont St., Toronto, Ont., Canada M5R 1V9 Tel.: 416-968-7252, We acknowledge the support of
Fax: 416-968-2377. Single price per copy $2.00 (plus applicable taxes). Subscription Rates: Canada - $60 per year(plus applicable the Government of Canada
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No. 40063078. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Circulation Department, 310 Dupont Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5R 1V9
e-mail: circ@baxter.net. PRINTED IN CANADA Copyright 2018.
6 travelcourier.ca | february 1, 2018
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NEWS
continued from page 6
passenger in a group flying free. “It’s pretty
easy to make a group,” Lalonde said.
Europe packages can now be booked
through Galileo and SIREV.
ACV sends people to Europe with Air
Canada, and Lalonde reported that Air
Canada’s European service has risen 15%
this year.
Agents were also reminded that Air
Canada Vacations is partnering with
Contiki and Trafalgar on some Europe
programs.
Ontario travel agent Sheila Aue
praised Air Canada Vacations’ new lineup.
“ACV’s Europe program looks great GLOBUS CELEBRATES
this year,” the TPI agent said. “A couple There were no big speeches or formal presentations – just celebrations –
of the Greece packages look exciting and as Globus family of brands held its annual partner appreciation luncheon in
feature some different areas that may Toronto recently, gathering agency partners from the likes of TL Network
not be familiar to the Canadian market. Canada, Ensemble Travel Group, TTAND, Carlson Wagonlit Travel, and
ACV’s Europe program has a lot to offer, beyond, as well as tourism and airline reps, media and even its bankers for
and it is definitely worth checking out.” the event.
Fellow agent Sheryll Donovan of “We’re very fortunate. Our lives are made easier because we have such
Northstar Travel in Kitchener, Ont., great partners like all of you… We are in a relationships business, and even
applauded Air Canada’s decision to add our bankers would say that, and we value that tremendously. We don’t take
Iceland to its network. “Iceland is the it for granted,” said Stéphanie Bishop, managing director, Globus family of
up-and-coming hot destination for 2018,” brands. “It would be easy for me if I sit in my office to look at numbers and
she said. my team knows I’m a numbers girl, I could make a decision real quick with
Donovan also labelled ACV’s 15% my numbers, but that doesn’t mean it’s going to be right for our business,
Europe commissions “very enticing” and and that doesn’t mean it’s going to be right for our partners, and that doesn’t
welcomed the addition of some Trafalgar mean it’s going to be right for our team internally. So, I really try hard when
and Contiki tours to the program. tc we make decisions, we make it with your interest in mind as well.”
In further news from Globus, Patrice Geske has been promoted to the
new post of director of marketing.
EXODUS LAUNCHES BUCKET Pictured are Bishop (l) and Geske.
LIST BINGO FOR AGENTS
With the goal of rewarding hard-working
agents, adventure tour operator Exodus SANDALS HAS NEW AGENT INCENTIVES
Travels has launched “Bucket List Bingo,”
offering agents the opportunity to cross Sandals Resorts has unveiled a new Luxury/Deluxe Room: US$15 bonus for
items off their own bucket list. From Feb. booking incentive bonus – in apprecia- six-night stay; US$30 for seven nights
1 to June 30, agents can cross off tiles on tion of the continued support from the or more.
Exodus Travels’ Bingo card, correspond- travel agent community – just in time There’s no limit to how much agents can
ing with trips booked by each new client. for the all-important winter season. earn – so more new bookings equal more
The first five agents to complete a full Effective immediately, agents who book bonuses. However, all bookings must be
line wins an ultimate getaway, awarded their clients now through March 15 (and registered on Sandals’ travel agent portal
on a first-come, first-served basis. Exodus for travel any time) will receive a bonus within 30 days of making the booking.
Travels’ Bucket List Bingo prizes include: payment, based on length of stay and The incentive booking bonus payments
Hawaii Islands Adventure, 10 days; Classic room category for each new booking: will be made within 10 to 14 business
Tanzania Safari, eight days; Galapagos Butler Suite: US$35 bonus for six-night days after travel. For more information,
Islands, 10 days; Highlights of Northern stay; US$85 for seven nights or more . agents can contact their local business
India, nine days; A Taste of Peru, seven Club/Concierge Suite: US$25 bonus for development manager, at 1-800-545-8283
days; Antarctic Explorer, 10 days. six-night stay; US$55 for seven nights or visit:
→www.exodustravels.com or more. → https://taportal.sandals.com
8 travelcourier.ca | february 1, 2018
0201PG06-10.indd 8 1/29/2018 3:39:51 PM
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or call 1-800-BEACHES for important terms and conditions.
AT T H E W O R L D T R AV E L AWA R D S
0201PG06-10.indd 9 1/29/2018 3:39:52 PM
NEWS click here
for digital extras
THE TRAVEL CORPORATION VISION IS BACK AT IT IN 2018
INTRODUCES ONLINE PORTAL
Vision Travel, a Direct Travel Company,
The Travel Corporation (TTC) has continues to pursue its expan-
reaffirmed its commitment to travel agent sion strategy in key markets across
partners with the creation of a new online Canada, agreeing to acquire Regina,
initiative – My Travel Portal (MTP). Saskatchewan-based, Percy Hunt Travel
An industry first in guided holidays Group.
and river cruising, MTP is designed The Percy Hunt Travel Group has 23
to provide agents with a simplified locations in Manitoba, Saskatchewan,
solution for delivering nothing but the Alberta and British Columbia.
best service for clients. From providing Its principals – Kevin Percy and Garry
the highest duty of care to being able Huntington – have established them-
to effortlessly personalize client trips, selves as leaders in travel throughout “With the addition of Percy Hunt
everything is taken care of within the Central and Western Canada, specializ- and their locations, Vision Travel will
online portal. ing in both corporate travel management now be firmly established with over 50
According to officials, MTP affords and leisure travel. locations across Canada,” said Brian
agents extra hours in their lives, know- Commenting on the agreement, Percy, Robertson, president of Vision Travel
ing there’s a simple go-to place that who’s president of the Group, said, “We are (Ontario-West).
holds all the necessary information for very excited to join the Vision Travel team He continued, “We are delighted to
each client’s travel plans with the family and look forward to continued growth welcome Kevin, Garry and their entire
owned, international travel group. It also especially here in the West. Vision’s con- team into the Vision Travel family where
hosts an e-documentation portal, saving sistent growth over the past 18 years and we are confident they will continue to
both time and trees. their clear leadership in the industry made thrive as leading travel professionals.”
peace of mind this a very straightforward decision.” Percy will join the Vision Travel
The MTP streamlined offering means Huntington noted, “We see many leadership team and will continue to
less hassle for agents and their clients alike. synergies between our two companies, oversee operations of the 23 locations,
From having client emergency contact and I am confident that our staff and and Huntington will join the Vision
details to hand in the event of unforeseen our clients will see immediate benefits Travel regional management team as
circumstances, to obtaining travellers’ per- of being part of Vision Travel, added part of finance.
sonal preferences to ensure a trip becomes Huntington. We are specifically pleased The agreement was scheduled to be
tailored to specific tastes, MTP facilitates about Virtuoso and what that means for finalized by Jan. 31, subject to customary
assistance with holiday plans in one cen- our luxury clients.” conditions.
tralized and convenient platform.
Addressing pre-trip, on-trip and
post-trip needs, the portal is an invalu-
able resource for clients wishing to view CELEBRITY EDGE FLOATS OUT OF DRY DOCK
itineraries on their mobile device rather
than in paper format, seamlessly sharing The excitement is rising as Celebrity turn their attention to bringing all of
holiday snaps on social media, taking trip Cruises offered the world a glimpse of the meticulously designed venues and
notes in their journal and chatting with what will be the brand’s first ship in transformational staterooms and suites
their Travel Director and fellow travellers, a new class in more than 10 years, as to life.”
plus providing overall peace of mind. Celebrity Edge floated out of its dry dock Celebrity Edge will spend its inaug-
Agents can effortlessly put the “care” at the STX France shipyard. ural season sailing alternating seven-
back into “customer care” by simply [Check out the video at night eastern and western Caribbean
adding client contact details to Manage www.celebritycruisespresscenter.com/ itineraries before transporting guests to
My Booking. A traveller’s completed video/72/celebrity-edge-float-out-video .] the Mediterranean with a range of seven-
MTP profile enables a seamless experi- Celebrity president and CEO, Lisa to 11-night sailings from iconic cities like
ence when in each destination: from Lutoff-Perlo observed, “This truly is an Barcelona and Rome in 2019.
saving time at border crossings and hotel exciting moment for our brand. The Homeporting in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.,
check-ins, to helping save the planet float out process marks a milestone in Celebrity Edge will be making its first sail-
with e-documentation instead of paper the building of Celebrity Edge. With ing on Nov. 21. Bookings are now open.
versions being issued. exterior construction complete, the Celebrity Edge will be joined by three
→ www.ttc.com/onlinetravelportal amazing STX France team will now sister ships in 2020, 2021 and 2022.
10 travelcourier.ca | february 1, 2018
0201PG06-10.indd 10 1/29/2018 3:39:52 PMROOMS click here
for digital extras
making up 30% of the overall award-
winning properties in 2017.
In fact, four out of five of the top-
awarded accommodation types are
something other than a traditional hotel:
THEY’RE GREAT! Apartments (165,876), Hotels (132,339),
Guest Houses (63,697), Bed-and-Break-
Booking.com is honouring its accom- fasts (55,833), and Holiday Homes (29,634).
modation partners that consistent- The 2017 results reveal that Can-
Cygnet Cove Suites located in
ly deliver great guest experiences adian vacation rental options such
Ucluelet, British Columbia.
with a 2017 Guest Review Award. as apartments, B&Bs and inns top the
Based on over 140 million reviews, list of properties to earn an outstanding on a travel accommodation site over
this year 549,937 properties in score this year. the coming year.
218 countries and territories are That’s not surprising, considering Some of Booking.com’s award
being given an award with 6,384 that recent research from Booking.com winners in Canada include: Markdale
Canadian properties from all types revealed that over a quarter (27%) of Manor Bed & Breakfast; Transvaal
at an average guest review score of Canadian travellers said that they would Farm; Highgarden B&B; Linthorne
8.8 receiving recognition. prefer to stay in a holiday rental over a Loft; L. A. Acres Bed & Breakfast;
For the first time, apartments hotel in 2018. In addition, over one-fifth Cygnet Cove Suites; Selenia Lodge;
took the lead from hotels as the (21%) of global travellers said that they Magnolia Hotel & Spa; and Mount
top-awarded accommodation type, would consider listing their own home Engadine Lodge, to name but a few.
TOURING
domestic mainly from Ontario.” & Labrador itinerary which will
And tour director, James Saunders have a whopping 20 departures.
agrees. Both tours are offered between June
Having escorted the company’s tours and September.
to Newfoundland for several years, Saunders also cites the people as
LOVING THE ROCK Saunders sees a definite pattern forming. a huge attraction.
“Our passengers know that New- “Newfoundlanders and Labra-
Once again, Globus is offering foundland is a vast province, and they doreans, I’ve found, can see the
escorted tours to Newfoundland love leaving the driving to someone humour in everything. The humour
and Labrador, else, so everyone can is constant and that’s before they
and – just like in take in the amazing start being funny. The music, the
past years – those scenery,” he says. history, the wildlife such as whales
trips are proving In fact, the tours and puffins, and food, including the
to be popular with have proven to be so legendary fish and chips, are also
Canadians in 2018. popular that Globus draws,” he says.
Stéphanie continues to increase Clients can take advantage of
Bishop of the the number of depar- Globus’ current sale on all product
Globus family of brands’ Canadian tures – and has even added a second – of five per cent off when booked
office, noted that, “We do get clients itinerary to the province this year. by April 24 this year – to make
from Australia, Europe and around A seven-day Colorful Newfound- Newfoundland and Labrador even
the world. But the vast majority of the land tour with nine departures has more appealing.
passengers for these tours are actually been added to the 12-day Newfoundland →Go to http://www.agentlingo.ca .
february 1, 2018 | travelcourier.ca 11
0201PG11.indd 11 1/29/2018 3:32:20 PMCOVER STORY ARGENTINA 0201 TC cover Story ARGENTINA.indd 12 1/29/2018 1:37:16 PM
CITY The Obelisk of Buenos Aires
AND
COUNTRY
From a great city to the goodness of the grape
Story by Ted Davis
Far below the equator, near the bottom of the world, Argentina with a dash of hot milk) and medialuna (croissant). Some cafés
summons travellers with a blend of sleek, urban style shaped even have daily tango shows.
by a turbulent history and flavoured by renowned wines and
cuisine. TANGO IN LA BOCA
History and style cross paths in Buenos Aires, whose roots
reach back to its founding in 1536. It draws comparisons to The tango is, of course, the famous dance created in
European establishments with its old-world sophistication, Argentina in the late 1800s, and can be seen performed in
while the streetscape retains the more jumbled characteristics many places around Buenos Aires. One of its original locations
of some European cities – it was sometimes known as the Paris of growth was in the barrio (district) of La Boca, which housed
of South America. the city’s immigrant poor and is located near the city’s shipping
Contributing to this impression is the city’s stylish archi- port.
tecture – especially in the Recoleta section of the city – and The tango arose from those hardships and captures the
the latest fashions that are on parade as part of day-to-day sentiments of nostalgia and sadness experienced by the
life. B.A.’s cosmopolitan atmosphere is reinforced by the many working class arrivals from Europe, many from Genoa, Italy.
intimate sidewalk cafés that dot the city, signaling a connec- The colourful Caminito promenade of La Boca has since been
tion to earlier waves of old-world immigration. developed with tourism in mind – grab a table, order some
Today, Buenos Aires has over 70 listed historic cafés known “yerbe matte” tea and watch the tango dancers perform.
as “bares notables,” recognized for their importance to the Fans of football (soccer) may already know that the
city’s culture. These were the meeting places for illustrious renowned club Boca Juniors is based here. If they time
literary, musical and political figures such as Jorge Luis Borges their visit well, they can join the rabid fans that will fill La
and Carlos Gardel. Their interiors are carefully preserved, and Bombonera stadium for a game.
the oldest date back to the end of the 1800s.
The cafés are usually open every day for breakfast, lunch SPIRIT OF REBELLION
snacks and the traditional merienda late afternoon snack.
Good examples of cafés include Café Tortoni, El Faro and Back in the city centre, small crowded lanes spill out onto
Confiteria las Violetas, which serve a typical cortado (espresso broad boulevards, where the portenos (citizens) rush past
february 1, 2018 | travelcourier.ca 13
0201 TC cover Story ARGENTINA.indd 13 1/29/2018 1:37:27 PMBusy foot traffic amidst the heritage buildings of Buenos Aires, capital of Argentina.
grand colonial buildings and monuments. This vibrant heart is which is a network of popular parks. It is the location of
apparent in a simple memorial to the brave at the Plaza the Monument of the Carta Magna – also known as the
de Mayo, in the small city park in front of the Casa Rosada Monument from the Spanish – and it commemorates the one-
presidential palace. century anniversary of the May Revolution in 1810, which led
This marks the place where the mothers of “disappeared” to the Argentine war of independence and emancipation from
citizens marched in defiance of the military dictatorship ruling colonial rule by Spain in 1818.
Argentina between 1976 and 1983. The white symbol of those The “monumento de los españoles” also indicates the four
marchers – a mother’s head in a scarf in profile – is a motif regions of Argentina, specifically the Andes, the River Plate,
painted on the paving stones in the Plaza de Mayo. the Pampas and the Chaco. These are essentially the west, the
More of this rebel spirit is in evidence at the Avienda south, east and north sides of the country, respectively.
Liberador in Palermo, just outside of the Bosque de Palermo,
VINTAGE ASPECTS OF ARGENTINA
The province of Mendoza is located in the Andes region of
Argentina, where the heat of summer is tempered by altitude
and proximity to the mountain range. Vineyards in Mendoza
are now basking in the intense summer sun and cool night air,
with the grape harvest season of autumn (March and April)
coming soon.
For visitors, that means days of prowling through vineyards
to assess the ripeness of the fruit, and nights of celebratory
dining with glass in hand.
Wine lovers around the world are well aware that
Argentina’s reputation for fine wine has been burnished by
Mendoza province, and especially by the Valle de Uco, one
the most fertile areas. The Valle de Uco adjoins the Andes,
which rise abruptly from the gentle countryside. This fortun-
ate geography serves vintners in the sunny, hot valley, who
welcome the cool mountain breezes for adding flavour com-
The resort can schedule drives into the Andes, where
plexities to the harvest.
steep trails provide the 4x4 thrills.
This is the scenic location of The Vines Resort & Spa, a new
resort (as of 2014) which meets a unique visitor demand. That
14 travelcourier.ca | february 1, 2018
0201 TC cover Story ARGENTINA.indd 14 1/29/2018 1:37:36 PMis, while the wines of Argentina have gained prominence on
the world stage, the opportunities for wine tourism there have
generally lagged behind.
A RESORT OF MODERN STYLE AND ELEGANCE
Those visitors are now being served by a resort of modern
style and elegance. At The Vines, a total of 22 luxury villas are
clustered near a sleek central building, housing a lounge and
dining room by noted Argentine chef Francis Mallmann. This
compact collective is surrounded by vineyards that stretch to
the horizon.
Mallmann’s celebrated take on traditional “asado” (open fire
beef barbecue) feasts are served at the Sieta Fuegos restaurant,
and paired with lots of wine. The short walk back to the villas
in the cool night air is bracing.
The villas are spacious and some even have a second bed-
room with a separate outside entrance. They all have kitchen-
ettes, lounge space and outdoor decks, many with views of the
mountains.
About 185 owners have private vineyards within The Vines
Resort & Spa property boundaries, covering a total of 600 hec-
tares. These are working enterprises, whose owners range from
dedicated hobbyists to full-scale commercial operators.
But non-investor visitors come for the unique opportun-
ity to stay within the heart of a working vineyard, enjoy the
sublime scenery and even participate in the production of
wine, from crushed grape to bottle. A Wine Camp follows the
journey of the grapes through the early stages of vintage con-
version, giving guests the chance to stomp the dark fruit and
get generally dirty in the process.
Vineyard tours on horseback are also available, guided by
an agronomist who schools guests in the methods of growing, A grape solution in the early stage of wine
nurturing and harvesting various grape varietals. Things get making at The Vines of Mendoza.
really exciting on a 4x4 Land Rover tour up steep roads and
HOTELS IN BUENOS AIRES trails into the Andes. Usually in view is Aconcagua, the highest
mountain in the western hemisphere, at 6,900 metres.
• Alvear Art Hotel: A sleek five-star luxury
boutique hotel in downtown B.A. WINEMAKER’S VILLAGE OPENS
http://alvearart.com/
Back at The Vines, the opportunities for sampling wine
• Mio Buenos Aires: A compact top-rated have been steadily increasing with the construction of a
boutique hotel in the Recoleta district of winery village on the entry road to the resort. Twelve wineries
the city. are to be constructed in the Winemaker’s Village, and one of
http://miobuenosaires.com/ the newest – the SoloContigo Winery – is making waves with
recent awards for its products.
• Home Hotel: Inexpensive but stylish Specifically, the SoloContigo Colección Malbec 2014
lodgings in the cool Palermo Hollywood received the top award (the Platinum Medal) at the recent 2017
district. Decanter Wine Awards, and was also named the Best Malbec
www.homebuenosaires.com/ in Argentina.
Guests can sample this and other SoloContigo vintages at
Argentina Information: the winery. Its tasting room and patio face west, giving guests
Say Hueque Tours; www.sayhueque.com an uninterrupted view of the Andes, landscaped gardens
and malbec vineyards, while they sample their favourites. With
views to forever, it is a fitting finish to an Argentina journey. tc
february 1, 2018 | travelcourier.ca 15
0201 TC cover Story ARGENTINA.indd 15 1/29/2018 1:37:40 PMDESTINATION | CARIBBEAN click here
for digital extras
MARGARITAVILLE RESORTS
COMING TO NASSAU
Margaritaville Holdings has big plans
for the Bahamas, unveiling details of a
$250 million, six-acre development for
the country’s capital city, Nassau.
Margaritaville at The Pointe is
already under construction, and it’s
expected to begin a phased opening in Sandals Resorts recently hosted an intimate group of travel agents from
mid-2019. It will feature a new 150-room Canada, the US and the UK during the Chairman’s Caribbean Experience,
Margaritaville Beach Resort, 150 luxury which was held from Jan. 11 to Jan. 14.
oceanfront residences – 100 of which Two Canadian agents – Lois Barbour, Travel Time TPI (Newfoundland)
will be branded One Particular Harbour and Kathy Kennedy, One Love Honeymoons (Quebec) – were among the
at The Pointe – a marina, water park, first to experience the newly-opened Sandals Royal Barbados, which hosted
spa, entertainment centre, signature the group for three nights.
Margaritaville food and beverage con- Agents were able to enjoy the many Sandals’ firsts at Sandals Royal
cepts, retail shops, a kids’ club, and more. Barbados, including the first rooftop pool and first four-lane bowling alley
John Cohlan, chief executive officer in the Sandals chain.
of Margaritaville, observed that: “The In addition, the agents were treated to a day trip to the nearby Sandals
Bahamas, one of the most beautiful LaSource Grenada, travelling on the jet of Sandals Resorts Chairman, Gordon
places in the world, is an absolutely per- “Butch” Stewart.
fect location for a Margaritaville lifestyle Several senior executives from Unique Vacations Inc. were also in
destination. We’re excited to combine attendance, including Tammy Gonzalez, CEO, Jeff Clarke, COO and Gary C.
our casual-luxe brand with the local Sadler, senior vice-president of sales.
Bahamian culture, known for its warmth
and hospitality, to create a one-of-a-kind
paradise to vacation, visit, live, or just
kick back and relax. Nassau is an ideal
destination for our lifestyle brand, as we pursue as our destination recovers.” stories of resilience. “Our digital market-
continue to expand our global hospital- Nicholson-Doty noted that the ing efforts will primarily focus on social
ity footprint.” “abridged plan” will be fluid and adapt- media, where we will highlight segments
Go to http://www.Margaritaville.com able to the current dynamic recovery such as cruise, shopping, dining, water
for more. environment, and the Department of sports, beaches, romance, culture, avail-
Tourism is committed to continuing able accommodations, and yachting,”
to share regular progress updates with she said. Efforts and messaging toward
US VIRGIN ISLANDS travel partners and the local community. telling stories of resilience will use the
HAVE A PLAN The Commissioner also indicated hashtag #USVIStillNice.
that the Department is working with “As we recover from the challenges
In the wake of the two Category 5 hurri- a significantly reduced budget, as posed by Hurricanes Irma and Maria, we
canes that hit in September, the US Vir- marketing activities are funded by have no doubt that there is an oppor-
gin Islands Department of Tourism has room tax revenues. tunity for the US Virgin Islands – with
developed a 150-day rolling marketing “With a significant number of accom- a refreshed product and visitor experi-
plan to share with industry stakeholders. modations unavailable for most of 2018, ence – to become the premier tourism
Commissioner of Tourism Beverly the marketing plan reflects working with destination in the Caribbean,” the
Nicholson-Doty said: “This new plan a reduced budget,” she explained. Commissioner stated.
has been developed to establish prior- Public relations and marketing efforts Go to http://www.VisitUSVI.com
ities and a road map of activities we will will focus on sharing Virgin Islanders’ for more.
16 travelcourier.ca | february 1, 2018
0201PG16.indd 16 1/29/2018 2:04:29 PMDESTINATION | AUSTRALIA & THE SOUTH PACIFIC
SOUTH AUSTRALIA GEARS UP
FOR TOURISM EXCHANGE
South Australia, a destination known
for wildlife, the Outback and food
and wine experiences, will host this
year’s Australian Tourism Exchange
(ATE) in Adelaide.
The April 15-19 event is expected
to attract more than 1,500 Australian
seller delegates from approximately 550
companies, and 700 key buyer delegates
from over 30 countries. In collaboration
with Tourism Australia and the South
Australian Tourism Commission, the
global event will be held at the newly
renovated Adelaide Convention Centre
in South Australia’s capital. GOWAY SALUTES AUSTRALIA
ATE will spotlight the best of South
Australia’s diverse food, wine and tour- Goway is celebrating Australia Day this year, continuing its long tradition of bringing
ism offerings. North American Globetrotters to Australia and New Zealand.
The annual conference also provides The celebrations included a new Downunder special with an airfare credit,
the possibility for international buyers to and festivities in Goway’s local offices, which included traditional meat pies and
experience Australia’s tourism offerings other Aussie treats.
first-hand through pre- and post-event They also coincided with the release of the company’s newest Downunder
fam trips. These include visiting the brochure. Goway has compiled “more than 56 reasons why they are the leading
renowned wine regions of Barossa wholesaler to the beautiful South Pacific,” the company says.
Valley, Clare Valley, McLaren Vale and Number 52 in particular, states that Goway’s Destination Specialists specialize
Coonawarra; Kangaroo Island, which is in the destinations they sell. That means a Downunder specialist agent only sells
known for wildlife, adventure and pris- Downunder.
tine beaches; Flinders Ranges for ancient “When it comes to Downunder, we are always looking for ways to better
landscapes and Outback adventure; and ourselves, our products, and our services to agents,” says Shirley Rourke, gen-
the host city of Adelaide. eral manager, South Pacific. “Our industry now requires all of us to be more
→w ww.trade.southaustralia.com professional than we were in the past. We want professional retail agents to know
they can expect more from Goway.”
→w ww.goway.com
$/2+$$8&./$1'
$8&./$1' +$:$,,(6&$3( 1(:=($/$1'02725+20(9$&$7,21
'$FAMS click here
for digital extras
{Send Submissions to tc@baxter.net}
A Collette fam tour gives agents of 2018 week-long fam trips to Spain
the opportunity to experience both designed for Canadian agents, visit-
the destination and the service pro- ing Madrid, Andalucia and Costa
vided by Collette, providing them with del Sol. The dates are Feb. 11, 25,
valuable information for their clients. and March 4 and 11. The land-only
COLLETTE Agents have the opportunity to qualify cost is 399 euros for agents, 449
2018/2019 Fam Program to win a free fam trip, while booking euros for companions, with a single
Collette is inviting agents to see the 15 or more passengers on the same air- supplement fee of 205 euros.
world and has unveiled its lineup of inclusive tour of equal or higher value This includes superior first-class
2018/2019 familiarization trips. Sev- within 12 months of the fam’s return. hotels, motor coach transportation,
eral tours featured in the program To inquire about specific dates and tour leader, and sightseeing tours.
include: Highlights of South America, rates or to apply online, visit: Not included: air, visa, insurance
Costa Rica: A World of Nature, India’s →w ww.gocollette.com/agentfam and personal items.
Treasures, Exploring the Alpine For further details, visit www.
Countries, Treasures of Egypt, Mari- quality-travel.ca/destinations/Spain/
times Coastal Wonders, The Northern SPAIN Explore ; email: FamTrips@quality-
Lights of Finland, Heritage of America, February, March dates travel.ca ; or call 416-216-0109 or
Spectacular Norway, South Africa, Quality Travel, a division of UNIGLOBE 1-888-644-5623, ext 4109.
Victoria Falls & Botswana, Dubai & Enterprise Travel, in cooperation with →w ww.quality-travel.ca/destinations/
Abu Dhabi, and Colours of Morocco. TRAPSATUR (Spain), is hosting a series Spain/Explore
G ADVENTURES
Spring 2018 Fams
G Adventures has unveiled its lineup of spring 2018
Canadian agent fam trips.
Agents have the opportunity to explore Sri Lanka,
Croatia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Peru with the
travel company.
The trips are eight to 11 days in length and depart
Read all about it! in April and May 2018. All fams are priced from $299
to $799 per person, land only, and are available to
Canadian travel agents only.
Look for these February 8
The lineup includes: Sri Lanka Express, nine days, $299,
feature stories departing April 8; Explore Kruger & Victoria Falls, 10 days,
Contiki – The $799, departing April 13; Local Living Croatia – Southern
in upcoming Power of Travel Dalmatia, eight days, $499, departing May 11; Machu
issues of Travel February 15 Picchu & the Amazon, 11 days, $699, departing May 17.
Courier Switzerland Interested agents can contact their local Global
Purpose Specialist for more information: Sean Russo
February 22 (seanr@gadventures.com) – Southwestern Ontario;
Lisbon with Justin Wegiel (justinw@gadventures.com) – Greater
Iberostar Toronto Area; Erin Buttler (erinb@gadventures.com) –
And more... BC, Yukon, Northwest Terri-tories & Nunavut; Karly
Cook (kcook@gadventures.com) – Southern BC &
The Island; Ashley Jean (ashleyj@gadventures.com) –
Eastern Canada; Joanne Fillion (jfillion@gadventures.
Don’t miss com) – Manitoba & Saskatchewan; Gary Armstrong
an issue. (garmstrong@gadventures.com) – Alberta; Ernie Balint
Renew your free (ebalint@gadventures) – Eastern Ontario.
subscription today! Applications can be submitted until Nov. 30 at:
travelpress.com/subscribe/ →w ww.cadfams.com
18 travelcourier.ca | february 1, 2018
0201PG18.indd 18 1/29/2018 4:07:14 PMDESTINATION | HAWAII
TOP UNIGLOBE MEMBERS MEET IN WAILEA
It was a get-together of top perform-
ers from around the world at the
UNIGLOBE Chairman’s Circle meeting
MAVERICK IS at the Fairmont Kea Lani in Wailea,
HEADING TO KAUAI Hawaii recently.
Those attending, by invitation only,
Maverick Helicopters will expand oper- heard UNIGLOBE’s chairman and
ations to Hawaii’s northernmost and founder, U. Gary Charlwood deliver an
oldest island, Kauai, later this year. “overarching” message on “successful
The expansion comes after nearly three succession.”
years of successful operations on Maui and In his opening address, Charlwood
will be the sixth permanent location. said, “In business, there are two
The company’s flights will depart daily approaches to long-term planning; one observed, “To me, UNIGLOBE is a family,
from its facility at Port Allen Airport, located is preparing an exit strategy (e.g. the sale and to have all the top performing
one mile southwest of Hanapepe, Kauai. of the company), the other is successful members in one location for Chairman’s
Bryan Kroten, the company’s succession planning. The one we recom- Circle is certainly beneficial.”
vice-president of marketing, said: mend is successful succession planning.” And Hicks continued, “We are the top
“Maverick Helicopters is thrilled to offer UNIGLOBE’s chairman continued: players in the industry, and we want to
our customers an unforgettable experi- “After all, you and your team have dedi- share our strategies with one another to
ence on the Garden Isle. With most of cated your lives to create something of remain competitive on a global scale. We
Kauai’s striking geographic marvels value.” continually refine our business model,
inaccessible by foot or road, helicopter Charlwood encourages members to so it’s great to be able to bring our heads
travel provides the best way to see the “build on this value by hiring good people together and share ideas at this event.”
island’s natural beauty.” and/or encouraging second generation Over four days, top producers had an
Maverick Helicopters’ new excur- family members to continue your legacy. activity-packed schedule that included
sions will showcase Kauai’’s spectacular This way, your business, and your people, workshops, presentations from suppliers
landscapes including Waimea Canyon, will continue to thrive and grow in the and motivational speakers. This year’s
known as the Grand Canyon of the long term.” guest executives were from Delta, United
Pacific, stretching 14 miles long, one UNIGLOBE opened its first office in Airlines and Amadeus. Adam Kreek
mile wide and more than 3,600 feet 1981, and today, many Chairman’s Circle – Olympic Gold Medalist and Social
deep; and Napali Coast, Kauai’s 17-mile members are either from some of the Entrepreneur – was the keynote speaker
coastline, displaying panoramic views of original agencies, or are the beneficiaries for this event. He presented on The Story
velvet green cliffs, cascading waterfalls of successful succession planning. of Change and held an outdoor fitness
and the vast Pacific Ocean. Steven Hicks, business operations session.
→ www.flymaverick.com for UNIGLOBE Travel Partners Atlanta, → www.uniglobe.com.
The Royal Collection
Expansive 3-bedroom suites
on Kaanapali’s North Beach
AAA Four Diamond Resort
The Royal Collection at Honua Kai Resort & Spa is reserved for those seeking
the highest level of luxury accommodations on Maui. Each luxuriously appointed
three-bedroom suite features an expansive floor plan, indulgent bathrooms, plush
855.803.9352 furnishings and exclusive amenities fit for island royalty.
HonuaKai.com/RoyalCollection Explore Honua Kai Memories today by searching #HKMemories.
february 1, 2018 | travelcourier.ca 19
0201PG19.indd 19 1/29/2018 2:54:20 PMAIR click here
for digital extras
seasonal non-stop
flights from Montreal.
Air Canada is the only
airline to offer fully lie-
flat seats in Interna-
AIR CANADA, TRANSAT A.T. tional Business Class
on flights between the
Both Air Canada and Transat A.T two countries,”
are welcoming the Canadian govern- Air Canada has
ment’s announcement of an expanded operated flights between
air transport agreement with Israel. Canada and Israel since
With the revised agreement, 1995. In addition to its
Air Canada indicated it will look to non-stop Toronto-Tel
further expand its services between Aviv year-round daily service, Air Canada Canadian-based international carri-
Canada and Israel. launched seasonal, non-stop service ers such as Air Transat.”
Benjamin Smith, president, between Montreal and Tel Aviv in June Air Transat made its first foray
passenger airlines at Air Canada, 2017 that resumes in May and which it is into the Middle Eastern region in the
commented, “Air Canada welcomes planning to increase to three times weekly summer of 2017 when it launched
the expansion of the Canada-Israel this summer from twice weekly last year. direct flights between Montreal and
air transport agreement, as it will As for Transat A.T., it applauded Tel Aviv. Building on that success, it
allow us to enhance our network and the increase in the number of weekly will be offering three direct flights
further advance our successful inter- frequencies between the two countries per week out of Montreal this sum-
national expansion strategy.” from 12 to 19 weekly return flights. mer, along with service from Toronto
Smith said, “We look forward to Jean-Marc Eustache, president and supported by connecting flights. The
increasing our services to Tel Aviv, chief executive officer of Transat, said, new program begins May 23.
which currently comprise of daily “This deal will open up new develop- Besides flights, Transat markets a
non-stop service from Toronto and ment and growth possibilities for full range of vacation packages to
Israel, making the country a choice
vacation destination for customers.
PORTER AIRLINES using Travelport’s Rich Content and It offers guided tours to fully explore
Branding merchandising solution to the destination with packages
Travelport reports that Porter display their branded fares and ancil- including round-trip flight, accom-
Airlines has signed a new multi- lary content in a graphically rich and modation, transfers and select meals,
year renewal content agreement, visual way in order to feature ancillary along with à la carte products for
becoming the latest Canadian airline products more prominently. customized holidays.
For travel agents shop-
ping for and booking flights
via Travelport’s Airline helps to showcase our award-winning
Merchandising capabilities, on-ground and in-air service to travel
Rich Content and Branding agents around the world.”
provides enhanced travel Mike Douglass, vice-president
content and greater access Americas, air commerce for Travel-
to airline ancillary offers port, noted, “Porter’s participation in
that can result in increased Travelport’s Rich Content and Brand-
revenue for the agents. ing adds to the significant endorse-
Michael Deluce, exec- ment by the Canadian airline industry
utive vice-president and of Travelport’s innovative technology
that has signed on for Travelport’s chief commercial officer for Porter leadership and our commitment
Rich Content and Branding merchan- Airlines, said, “Porter strives to make to partnering with airlines on the
dising solution. the travel experience easier not only for future of branded fares and ancillaries
Under the new deal, Porter will passengers, but also for travel agents. merchandising.”
join more than 250 global airlines Travelport’s Rich Content and Branding →w ww.flyporter.com
20 travelcourier.ca | february 1, 2018
0201PG20.indd 20 1/29/2018 1:55:57 PMRIVER CRUISING
UNIWORLD MAKES IT SEAMLESS
Uniworld is making life easier for travel agents. The company has been listening. We’re happy to offer agents the necessary
has introduced a new, integrated and seamless booking experi- tools and resources to make it a seamless booking experi-
ence on their exclusive online booking engine – River Currents ence including the ability to book in CAD or USD currency,
– for Canadian agents. depending on the needs of their clients.”
in addition to its ongoing commit- New features for agents to watch for,
ment to bring the travel agent commun- include:
ity the latest and most efficient booking
Agents will now have the ability to
technology, Uniworld is upgrading its
book U by Uniworld journeys online.
online agent booking platform.
Along with enhanced performance,
Payments, either a deposit or full
Uniworld will be rolling out six new payment, can be made.
features, including booking capabilities
Agents can view River Cruise day-
in either CAD or USD.
by-day itineraries and inclusions.
Michelle Palma, vice-president
of field sales for Uniworld in North
Journey bookings can be made in dual
America, observed: “There are exciting currencies, including Canadian dollars.
times ahead and 2018 is gearing up to be a fantastic booking
Full pricing breakdowns will be available for viewing.
year, and our goal is to assist our loyal agent partners to effect-
ively grow their river cruise business with Uniworld.” New and improved mobile-friendly user interface
Palma continued: “Many of our River Current’s new fea- and booking experience for agents.
tures implement suggestions from our partners, and Uniworld → www.uniworld.com
COLOR YOUR WORLD
with Our Best Offer Ever.
One-of-a-kind award-winning ships | Outstanding Service | The most all-inclusive amenities | Five-star farm-to-table cuisine
Create something beautiful with savings up to 30%
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR LATEST SALES OFFERS, VISIT UNIWORLD.COM/AGENT, OR TO BOOK, CALL 1-800-653-4367. TICO Reg. #50018458
february 1, 2018 | travelcourier.ca 21
0201PG21.indd 21 1/29/2018 2:55:21 PMWEST click here
for digital extras
STAY AND PLAY
WITH ROCKY
MOUNTAINEER
AB Rocky Mountaineer has
introduced a new Stay and
Play offer, giving travellers
CANADIAN NORTH AIRLINES up to $600 in added value.
GROWTH IN EDMONTON Available on qualifying
2018 package bookings of
Canadian North Airlines is opening eight days or more, guests
its own Manufacturing, Maintenance, who book the Stay and
Repair and Operations (MMRO) Play offer can apply their
facility during the first quarter of added value to additional hotel nights, sightseeing tours, Alaska cruises, and more.
2018 within its hangar at Edmonton One eligible vacation package is the 11-day/10-night Journey through the
International Airport. Clouds Outdoor Adventures. Guests can experience the natural beauty of
Once operational, Canadian North Western Canada by hiking in Jasper, rafting on the Bow River, and canoeing on
will have the capability to fulfill all Lake Louise. Aboard Rocky Mountaineer, travellers will be surrounded by lush
of its line maintenance, heavy main- green forests, turquoise glacier-fed lakes and local wildlife, as they are welcomed
tenance and manufacturing require- to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper.
ments for its fleet of Boeing 737-300, The Stay and Play offer is available until March 2.
Boeing 737-200 and Bombardier →w ww.rockymountaineer.com
Dash-8 aircraft under its own roof.
By utilizing its own people,
equipment and facilities to complete BC
these essential functions, Canadian
North will significantly reduce its
maintenance costs, while gaining full BESTWAY TOURS HOSTS DESTINATION PRESENTATIONS
control over maintenance planning
and scheduling. Bestway Tours of Vancouver will soon be staging a series of travel destination
→w ww.canadiannorth.com presentations for agents and consumers alike.
The World Heritage Tour of Eastern Europe will take place on Feb. 1 at 7 p.m. It
will explore the art, music and culture of Moscow, St. Petersburg, Tallinn (Estonia),
Riga (Latvia), Vilnius (Lithuania), Warsaw, Krakow, Prague, and Vienna. Discover
OFF-CAMPUS TOURISM Pakistan will take place on Feb. 8 at 7 p.m., exploring the Himalayan scenery and
COURSES ON VAN ISLAND architectural treasures of this modern-day Shangri-La. And Treasures of Indochina
is set for Feb. 15 at 7 p.m., with a journey through the heart of this exotic region.
Students in northern Vancouver →w ww.bestway.com
Island can kick-start their career in
West Coast tourism and hospitality
with a new course by North Island SPECIAL EVENTS DEALS WITH NEW YVR BOOKING PORTAL
College.
It now offers a Tourism and The Vancouver Hotel Destination Associa- at the Vancouver International
Hospitality course in Port Hardy to tion has launched a new hotel booking Wine Festival; two free tickets to
serve new initiatives like the recently portal for their 36 downtown member the JFL NorthWest, Vancouver’s
opened Kwa’lilas Hotel. Starting properties, called StayVancouver Hotels. Comedy Festival; buy one, get one
Jan. 29, the college offers a two-year, com. It offers special deals on events for free passes for the HSBC Canada
part-time Tourism and Hospitality those who make bookings in the city. Sevens rugby tournament; buy one,
Management certificate at its new Guests booking a hotel room on stay- get one free tickets to the JUNO
Thunderbird Mall Campus. vancouverhotels.com can choose from Awards at Rogers Arena.
→w ww.nic.bc.ca a free ticket to the International Tasting →w ww.tourismvancouver.com
22 travelcourier.ca | february 1, 2018
0201PG22.indd 22 1/29/2018 3:32:48 PMYou can also read
