In case you missed it, and even if you didn’t, here’s a quick look at some of last week’s need-to-know travel news: This year’s hurricane forecast is in; Porter delays lift-off; and Orlando’s theme parks eye re-opening.
NEWS
The US National Oceanic and Administrative Administration predicts that the Atlantic hurricane season has a 60% chance of being above normal with 13-19 named storms, six to 10 hurricanes, and three to six major hurricanes. Twelve storms per season is considered average. The Pacific season is anticipated to be near or below normal with 11 to 18 named storms, five to 10 hurricanes, and one to five major hurricanes.
AIR
Porter Airlines is deferring its resumption of flights until July 29, one month later than previously scheduled, due to ongoing COVID-19 travel restrictions.
Count Caribbean Airlines among the airlines touting new sanitation procedures, with airline CEO Garvin Medera assuring passengers that aircraft are sanitized “above international standards,” including monitored air quality that captures 99.97% of particles. When international flights resume, social distancing will be practiced at check-in, on board and other areas, adds the airline.
DEALS
Canadian active holiday specialists Great Canadian Trails has introduced a no-deposit booking offer designed to remove the risk and offer peace of mind for travellers booking their next hiking and cycling trip for 2020 or 2021. In addition to the $0 booking offer, the company reports that it has added new measures around COVID-19 to ensure travellers’ safety and minimize the risk of spreading the virus.
TOURS
A new app is being rolled out by Rail Europe this month designed to make booking train travel in Europe easier. In addition to other features, users will be able to buy tickets, view their purchases offline, and have access to more mobile tickets.
HOTELS
Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) has announced the launch of #SLHFORHEROES, a global campaign offering 1,000 room nights to those on the frontline who have supported their communities through the COVID-19 pandemic. Submissions to nominate a “hero” are open until June 30 via the organization’s web site.
RESORTS
The re-opening of Coconut Bay and Serenity resorts in Saint Lucia have been delayed until Aug. 1 in accordance with government regulations on the island. The previously announced Travel Agents Stimulus Package is not affected.
Following $30 million in renovations with another $10 million still to be spent, AMResorts has announced a brand switch between two of its properties in the Dominican Republic. Phase 1 will see Now Larimar Punta Cana become the Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana on June 1, followed by Secrets resort re-opening as Now Larimar Punta Cana, with additional renovations taking place over the summer. Secrets caters to adults, Now to families.
CRUISE
AmaWaterways is offering complimentary sailings to front line medical workers as a measure of thanks for fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. Applications are being received for the complimentary Future Cruise Certificates, which can be redeemed on a reservation made within 90 days of the sailing date. The certificates must be used with one full fare paying guest in the same stateroom and are applicable on Europe or Asia sailings through Dec. 31, 2021. For details, check “ special offers” on the cruise line web site.
The “ Save Now & Sail Later” One Week Sale from Windstar Cruises is available until June 4 and features a variety of cruises in 2021 with rates starting at $1,299 per guest based on double occupancy. In addition to reduced prices on select itineraries (as well as cruise tours with overland components) in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Tahiti, Caribbean, Alaska, US Coastals, Canada, Asia, Mexico and Panama/Costa Rica, guests can receive up to $1,000 in shipboard credit per stateroom.
ATTRACTIONS & THEME PARKS
Pending approval from Florida’s governor, Disney World plans to reopen starting July 11, while SeaWorld has asked to re-open a month earlier on June 11. Universal Orlando had previously announced June 5 for its re-opening but also awaits approval. Select Universal hotels will begin re-opening on June 2.
FAMS & INCENTIVES
A new Abu Dhabi Specialist Program aims to educate the trade through a series of online courses that will allow them to become certified trained agents. Courses cover attractions, events, accommodation options and more. Successful specialists also qualify for rewards including a chance to win a five-start trip to Abu Dhabi in 2021 for two persons, across two prize draws during this year. Register HERE.
EVENTS
Air Canada Vacations has upcoming webinars as follows:
• Canada – June 4, 1 p.m. (EST). Registration link: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4945781829768667659
• Cruises – June 18, 1 p.m. (EST). Registration link: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/378987771482019852
DESTINATIONS
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument has been designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), making it only the second of its kind in the US National Park Service and the first certified in Maine and New England. The Sanctuary designation recognizes the monument’s exceptionally natural dark night skies, a rarity today.
For the fourth time in a row, Colombia took first place in the Global Big Day, an international bird-counting competition. With a total of 1,440 species observed, hundreds of birders from all over the country spied the highest number of species in the world from the comfort of their homes. This year, the contest was held virtually, achieving record participation with over 48,000 birdwatchers.
Send info to baginski@travelindustrytoday.com
* Future dates and events listed here are up to date at time of printing, although obviously subject to changes due to ever-involving pandemic information. Travel Industry Today accepts no responsibility for sudden or unreported inaccuracies.