Author: Nova Ray

TORONTO — At the recent Back to Jamaica FAM event, Sandals Resorts International (SRI) showcased exciting updates not only about its eight Jamaican properties but also about upcoming projects across the Caribbean. New Developments at Sandals Dunn’s River Sandals Dunn’s River, the FAM’s host resort, recently opened the Louis Grant Conference Centre on December 15. This standalone facility boasts more than 8,000 square feet of event space and is named after the resort’s first General Manager, who was pivotal to its launch in 1991. Exciting Plans for Beaches Runaway Bay Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman of SRI, announced that the new…

The Ritz-Carlton has announced its highly anticipated 2026 summer voyages, featuring an extensive range of travel options across Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. This season includes an impressive 44 unique itineraries, inviting travelers to explore over 20 countries and 90 ports. Discover Northern Europe Travelers can immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Europe. The summer voyages will highlight destinations such as Norway’s stunning fjords, Iceland’s unique geothermal features, and the vibrant culture of the Baltic Sea. Guests will have the opportunity to engage in exclusive experiences, such as private guided tours of historic castles and intimate culinary events…

Major Airlines Launch New Flight Routes Connecting Global Destinations in 2025-2026The aviation industry is experiencing a remarkable transformation as major airlines announce an ambitious slate of new flight routes designed to meet unprecedented global travel demand. From United Airlines’ groundbreaking transpacific expansion to Porter Airlines’ Caribbean connectivity initiatives, these strategic route additions are reshaping the landscape of international air travel and opening exciting possibilities for travelers worldwide.United Airlines Pioneering Baltimore-Auckland ConnectionUnited Airlines is making headlines with its ambitious plan to launch a direct flight route between Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI) and Auckland, New Zealand. This strategic addition represents one of…

BASSE-TERRE — The Caribbean islands of Guadeloupe boast a stunning array of natural beauty, enriched culture, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. For anyone facing the chill of a Canadian winter, a deep dive into the picturesque landscapes and vibrant life in Guadeloupe can serve as a delightful mental escape. Known affectionately as Butterfly Island, Guadeloupe’s unique shape is a sight to behold, with its two main islands forming the wings of this tropical butterfly. The heart of transportation lies at the ‘little thorax,’ where you’ll find the international airport and the lively city of Pointe-à-Pitre. The eastern wing, Grande-Terre, is…

In the early 1970s, airlines began to redefine the flying experience, transforming long-haul flights into lively social events. Particularly notable was Air Canada’s innovative approach aboard the Boeing 747, where passengers were invited to leave their seats and hit the dance floor at 36,000 feet. This unique feature captured the attention of travelers and showcased a vibrant side of air travel that is rarely seen today. The Dance Floor: A Novel Concept in Air Travel Air Canada’s Boeing 747, which first entered service in 1970, featured a distinct upper deck designed for leisure and relaxation. This space was not just…

Star Seeker. Windstar Photo Windstar Cruises Unveils New Star Class Vessel, Star Seeker Windstar Cruises has marked a significant milestone in the world of luxury cruising with the debut of its first new Star Class vessel, the Star Seeker. The yacht successfully floated out of the building dock at WestSEA Shipyard in Viana do Castelo, Portugal, signifying its first contact with water. Vessel Overview and Features With the exterior of the Star Seeker now complete, the focus shifts to the lavish interiors, which will feature 112 spacious suites designed for maximum comfort. Guests can look forward to five distinguished dining…

**VOUVRAY, France** — Nestled within the historic vineyards of the Loire Valley, a captivating adventure awaits those who cherish both **nature and fine wine**. Participants on a recent hike were welcomed by the enchanting sights of centuries-old vines that miraculously survived the catastrophic blights of the late 1800s. This journey, offered by [Exodus Adventure Travels](https://www.exodustravels.com), immerses its guests in a week of exploration, exercise, and cultural enrichment through the picturesque landscapes and historical landmarks of the region. The Loire Valley, known for its stunning **châteaux** and sweeping vineyards, follows the course of the **Loire River** and the **Cher River**. Starting…

The airline industry is experiencing a significant downturn in travel demand, as initial forecasts for a robust year appear to be optimistic in light of recent developments. Following the announcement of tariffs by former President Trump on April 4th, 2025, data from Consumer Edge indicates a dramatic drop in bookings among major U.S. airlines. In less than a week, airline reservations plummeted by nearly six percent. This decline in bookings raises concerns about the overall health of the airline sector and the broader travel industry. The unexpected tariff announcement has left consumers cautious and hesitant, leading to a reevaluation of…

Carnival Corporation & plc is set to undergo significant leadership transitions across its prestigious cruise lines, including Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Seabourn. This strategic shift is designed to strengthen management and enhance operational performance as the cruise industry continues to rebound. Effective December 2, 2024, Gus Antorcha will take the helm as the president of Princess Cruises. Antorcha, who has served as president of Holland America Line since 2020, will replace John Padgett, who plans to step down in mid-February 2025. In his new role, Antorcha will manage the overall performance and operations of Princess Cruises, which boasts…

**Teamwork & Resilience in Jamaica’s Tourism Sector** In a recent press conference at the Iberostar Selection Rose Hall Suites, tourism stakeholders lauded the significance of collaboration in cementing Jamaica’s swift recovery from the impact of Hurricane Melissa. The consensus among attendees was clear: partnerships among all segments of the tourism industry have been pivotal to the recovery process. “Teamwork is the secret ingredient in Jamaica’s tourism recipe,” stated industry expert Shannon. “Jamaica’s optimistic spirit following the hurricane has not gone unnoticed, and it’s a testament to the resilience of our people.” Tourists visiting the island can expect to encounter some…