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CANADIAN TRAVELLER:Travel Agent Edition
PLUSAnaheim
MexicoVegas
MAY 2014PM
4272
0012
Spotting Wildlife In
Kenya
INSIDE A CANADIAN’S GUIDE TO SHOPPING
THE DESTINATION SALES RESOURCE FOR TRAVEL PROFESSIONALS
A C A n A d i A n ’ s G u i d e T o
shoppingshopping
A speciAl supplement
to the mAy
2014 is
sue of
WhereTo Buy
The BesTSuper Packages,
Amazing Places
WINA Utah Adventure
For Two, visit canadiantraveller.net
for details
On Safari
INSIDE
MyMagic+An incredible new level of Walt Disney World magic.In 2014, we’re enhancing the Guest experience like never before. MyMagic+ makes you a true superhero, giving you the power to unleash an unparalleled Disney experience to your Clients.
Disney FastPass+Now your Clients can reserve access to select attractions and entertainment experiences before they leave home, and add and make changes on the go with FastPass+ service. Guests will discover more attractions than ever before to pick from. Plus, for the first time, they can even select fireworks and parade viewing areas, shows, Disney Character Experiences and more! And best of all, it’s included in Theme Park admission.
Online PlanningAfter your Clients book their vacation with you, tell them to visit StartYourDisneyExperience.com. There, they can access My Disney Experience and discover an incredible family of online tools to personalize their experience — before and during their visit.
MagicBandsWith the simple touch of a MagicBand, your Clients can connect to all the choices they made online. They can use their MagicBand to enter their Disney Resort hotel room, enter Walt Disney World Parks and access FastPass+ attractions. They can even purchase food and merchandise at select locations if they are staying at a Disney Resort hotel.
Valid Theme Park admission required. Disney FastPass+ attractions and entertainment experiences, the number of selections Guests can make and available arrivals are limited.
Online registration required.
MagicBands are available to Guests staying at select Disney Resort hotels and for purchase at select merchandise locations. Credit card must be presented at Disney Resort hotel check-in for purchases with MagicBand. Purchases are charged to Disney Resort hotel account. MyMagic+ is a service provided in the U.S. MagicBands are intended for use in the U.S.
Memory Maker
Memory Maker includes photos taken during the Memory Maker window and associated to the Memory Maker Guest’s My Disney Experience account. Photos will expire pursuant to the expiration policy at mydisneyphotopass.disney.com/help-and-support. If Memory Maker is added to a Magic Your Way Package, any photos taken within three days from the date Memory Maker is purchased will not be included and must be purchased separately. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. Subject to Memory Maker Terms and Conditions.
Unlock a new dimension of magic for your Clients with MyMagic+.For more information, visit disneytravelagents.ca.
When Guests add Memory Maker to their vacation package, they’ll enjoy an unlimited array of photos taken by Disney PhotoPass Photographers during their vacation — plus, photos taken at select attractions and Character Dining locations.
Punta Cana · Cancun · HuatulcoBarceló Bavaro Palace Deluxe · Barceló Dominican Beach
Barceló Costa Cancun · Barceló Huatulco BeachFor more hotels & destinations, visit SignatureVacations.com
Let your cares melt away in the warm, tropical breezes of the ocean. Renowned for its idyllic beachfront properties in Mexico and the Caribbean, Barceló Hotels & Resorts welcomes you to an all inclusive paradise catering to your every taste and desire.
Perfect BlendThe
of
and
Luxury Serenity
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MAY 2014 CANADIANTRAVELLER.NET 5
SALES DEVELOPMENT 6 Selling Travel With Steve Your Clients
Scan & Your Sales Grow
12 It’s In The Bag Tap Into One Of Our Favourite Vacation Activities – Shopping
38 Money-Maker$ - Airlines Air Canada Delivers Wi-Fi Connectivity
WORLD REPORT 8 Whale sharks…Turkish honeymoon…
Shanghai dinner…Divinia in the Med
FEATURES America10 So Little Time, So Many Shops Orange
County Is A Shopper’s Idea Of Heaven
29 Discover America Pet-Friendly Travel Across The U.S.A.
30 Vegas Summer Sizzle Pools, Parks & Shatner Make This Hot Destination So Cool
Mexico32 Make It Mexico It’s Close, Easy To Get To
& A Great Summer Value
Africa35 Kenya Keeps ’Em Coming A Wealth
Of Experiences That Continues To Attract Visitors
WIN, WIN, WIN 9 Share your story and you could win an iPad
and even a trip
DESTINATION GUIDE 13 A Canadian’s Guide to Shopping
ON THE COVER: African safaris are on just about everyone’s bucket list. Turn to page 35 to � nd out what Canadian tour operators are offering this summer.Photo Credit: Shutterstock
35
10
32
EDITORJanice StrongART DIRECTORGail M Dubus
PRE PRESSGordon Fidler
PUBLISHER / PRESIDENTBrad Liski
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHERJennifer PrendergastEDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Dale Miller
DIRECTOR OF ONLINE READER EXPERIENCE
Kevin HintonONLINE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Ryan McKenzie
ADVERTISING1-888-924-7524
WESTERN REGION SALES MANAGERMyles Armstead
ACCOUNT MANAGERJoanne Tichborne
REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVE MEXICOLeticia Garcia
PUBLISHING SPECIALIST AZ, CA, HIBoyd Liski
PROMOTIONS MANAGERDesiree Miller
DIRECTOR OF CONSUMER MARKETINGCraig Sweetman
SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETINGAmy Lizee
ACCOUNTINGRachel BrownCIRCULATION
Diana Cippiciani
SUBSCRIPTION HOTLINE604-428-1597
Printed in CanadaCanadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement No. 42720012.Postage paid at Vancouver, BC. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to Circulation Dept., 802-1166 Alberni Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6E 3Z3. Contents © copyright 2014 by My Passion Media Inc. All Rights Reserved. Editorial submissions can be sent via e-mail to [email protected]. Publisher assumes no responsibility for lost material.assumes no responsibility for lost material.
Western Canada:802-1166 Alberni StreetVancouver, BCCanada V6E 3Z3Tel: (604) 428-0259 Fax: (604) 620-0245
Eastern Canada:WaterPark Place11th Floor, 20 Bay StreetToronto, ONCanada M5J 2N8Tel: (416) 907-7524Fax: (866) 250-6839
Punta Cana · Cancun · HuatulcoBarceló Bavaro Palace Deluxe · Barceló Dominican Beach
Barceló Costa Cancun · Barceló Huatulco Beach
Let your cares melt away in the warm, tropical breezes of the ocean. Renowned for its idyllic beachfront properties in Mexico and the Caribbean, Barceló Hotels & Resorts welcomes you to an all inclusive paradise catering to your every taste and desire.
14-04-16 3:41 PM
CANADIAN TRAVELLER Travel Agent Edition
MAY 2014Volume 29: Issue 5
CANADIANTRAVELLER.NET MAY 20146
YES I know what some say about the QR code. Old. Useless. But not so fast. For the travel trade it can be
a fantastic and solid component to any agency marketing plan and especially your social media activities. Perhaps the lack of support from some quarters is the recall that QR codes are a staid, black, colourless throwback to the barcode era. Well, you can now create colourful QR codes, embed images, and have the scanned code link the scannee to your website or any other online destination. Let’s explore:
QR 2 Where?You could create a dozen QR codes and that’s okay as long they’re not con� icting with each other on the same page – and for one other reason too: you’ll not want to overdo it and cause your clients to become blasé about them and look past them. Your � rst thought, when creating a QR code, is where will your client end up once they scan your QR icon? Will they land on your website, a special webpage, a � yer, digital magazine or eBrochure? Let’s go for your website home page.
QR 2 WearWe are still in the era of wearing our brands on our clothes and that’s always a good idea. That’s been done for years now and continues be worthwhile doing – printing your agency logo on your golf shirt, blouse, sweatshirt, etc. Now, you can print your QR code on that same golf shirt only this time you print your QR code on the back of your sweatshirt…nice and large. Keypoint – when your QR code is featured on your back it’s easier for people behind you to see it, point their phone at you and scan the code – much easier than looking at your
The QR Code by Steve Crowhurst, CTCYour Clients Scan & Your Sales Grow
Steve Crowhurst, CTC, is an author, speaker, trainer and owner of The Travel Agent’s Store where travel professionals shop for educational tools. Visit Steve’s store atwww.thetravelagentsstore.com; and like his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sellingtravel; T: 250-738-0064.
chest and then catching your eyes and being hesitant about pointing their phones at you. Guy scanning guy, guy scanning woman (with partner beside her…whoops!), woman scanning guy…yes, stick to the QR code on your back!
The QR 2 Where 2As we’re trying to go beyond that boring old black QR code image and use colour and graphics now’s the time to think about which graphic you would like to feature behind those dots and squares that make up the QR code itself. Are you promoting a speci� c destination that you would like to feature? How about a supplier – any promotional opportunity there?
You could download one of your preferred supplier’s digital brochures and embed it on your website home page under a large
SELLING TRAVELWITH STEVE
slogan. Then use the cover of the brochure as your QR code image. Someone will scan the QR code and then land on your website and at that point the digital brochure will be featured on their phone. Perhaps your preferred supplier would like to work with you on this promotion and take it a step further and offer an inducement to the scannee?
Could be that between you and your preferred supplier/preferred destinations’ tourist board you create a special departure, pricing, group rate and/or discount and all of that information is waiting for the scannee behind that QR code. You’ll need a slogan to encourage the scannee to scan.
QR SlogansWhat kind of slogans go with a QR code? No rules or regulations apply other than the available space for the lettering. How about a nice simple slogan – one that I use myself and here it is: SCAN
‘N’GO! Pretty much says it all especially if you have identi� ed yourself as a travel agent or representing a travel agency. Tying in the word travel helps the person eyeballing your QR code to understand the slogan. Let’s add where we are going…let’s suggest Italy. Your Scan ‘N’ Go Italy QR code might look like the one on this page.
For sure people behind you will be curious, whipping out their smartphones to scan your back to � nd out what this Scan ‘N’ Go Italy is all about. You might have them land on a web page that features another slogan: “Quick, Ask ME about Italy NOW and save money!” Now that’s one way to pitch and sell on the go! See QR codes are still useful.
Here’s two QR code generators to try: http://www.qrstuff.com/ and http://www.qr-code-generator.com/
“You can now create colourfulQR codes, embed images, and havethe scanned code link the scannee
to your website.”
SW_CanadianTraveller_Gaviota_MAY2014.indd 1
For more hotels & destinations, visit Sunwing.ca
HAVANAHotel Kohly H H H
Quinta Avenida H H H H PLUS
CAYO COCOPlaya Coco H H H H
HOLGUINPlaya Costa Verde H H H H
Playa Pesquero H H H H PLUS
CAYO SANTA MARIAPlaya Cayo Santa Maria H H H H PLUS
with Sunwing Vacations
Sound advice from the travel experts Exclusive holiday collections Exclusive privileges and perks Award-winning champagne flights
Gaviota Hotels
in Cuba
SW_CanadianTraveller_Gaviota_MAY2014.indd 1 14-04-17 11:41 AM
CANADIANTRAVELLER.NET MAY 20148
MEXICO
A Whale Of A TimeCancun Whale Shark Tours offers all-inclusive excursions to swim with the ocean’s largest fish that include transportation from hotels, guided snorkeling, lunch, non-alcoholic beverages and equipment rentals. A top rated operator on Trip Advisor, the company is also a founding member of the International Whale Shark Conservation Foundation, and donates a percentage of all proceeds from their tours to the preservation of this endangered species.
www.cancunwhalesharktours.com
MEXICO
A Whale Classic Shanghai cuisine.
CHINA
Eating TraditionalContext adds to its roster of walking tours in Shanghai with A Taste of Old Shanghai an annotated meal that highlights classic Shanghai cuisine. The city’s modern-day cuisine is a blend of traditional local home-style cooking and influences from across China that arrived through trade. The two-and-a-half-hour tour is available evenings Monday through Friday and Sunday. Group seminars cost ¥550 per person; private tours are ¥2,500. The tour is led by a local food writer and cook and limited to six people.
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Location, LocationCiragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul offers newlyweds the “Ultimate Luxury Honeymoon” package which will keep the fire going long after the “I do’s.” Highlights include: five-night accommodations in a Vali Vezir Suite; roundtrip airport transfers; daily buffet breakfast; private tour to Prince Islands; evening boat ride on the Bosphorus with a five-course dinner; sunset picnic at Pierre Loti; and couples hamam at Sanitas Spa. The package is US $38,690 for two and is valid through December 30.
www.kempinski.com/en/Istanbul/ciragan-palace/special-offers/honeymoon-package
CRUISE
DIVA ON THE MEDThe first of MSC’s ships dedicated to North American travellers, MSC Divina will bring its signature service and onboard experiences to the Mediterranean May 16 through October 3, 2015. The seven-night cruises depart from Civitavecchia and visiting La Spezia, Cannes, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona, Naples and return to Civitavecchia. Bookings made by July 31, 2014 will be eligible for an exclusive balcony upgrade plus onboard credit.
www.msccruisesusa.com
MSC Divinia.
Vali Vezir Suite.
The whaleshark migration runs
mid-May throughmid-September.
WORLD REPORT
NEWS THAT MATTERS TO YOU
MAY 2014 CANADIANTRAVELLER.NET 9
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CONTEST PRIZESWIN IPADS, A TRIP & A WRITER’S CONTRACT Each month six articles will be chosen and
published online. The article with the highest Social Tally each
month will win an iPad. The article with the highest tally each
quarter will be printed in one of our publications.
The article with the highest average daily tally will receive an annual writer’s contract and a trip!
HOW TO ENTERVisit www.canadiantraveller.net/1916-Writer_Contestto enter our exclusive writing contest.
See website for full contest details and Terms & Conditions.
CONTEST CLOSES DECEMBER 31, 2014.
CONTEST
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.CANADIANTRAVELLER.NET
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This is your chance to share your travel-related story and see it published! Whether you had a vacation in the Bahamas, saw The Big 5 in Africa or enjoyed bike ’n beer in Oregon, as long as it is travel-related, we want to give you the chance to be published!
SHARE YOUR STORY
ENTER THE CANADIAN TRAVELLER WRITER CONTEST
CANADIANTRAVELLER.NET MAY 201410
THEIR slogan says “7 Days Are Not Enough” and when the Anaheim Conventions & Visitors Bureau says it, they mean it.
The beaches, the parks…there really is too much to see and do in a week.
Shopping ParadiseAnd what about the shops? With new developments like the Anaheim Packing District and Center Street Promenade and old favourites like the Downtown Disney District and GardenWalk, serious shopaholics and casual browsers can while away an afternoon, a day or a whole week.
The eagerly anticipated Anaheim Packing District is set to open May 31. Housed in a renovated 1919 citrus packing house the Anaheim Packing House will feature a 3,716-square metre artisan food hall with boutique food and beverage merchants, live music and community seating. The District also includes Farmers Park, where festivals and weekend farmers markets take place and the 1925 Packard Car Showroom which houses Umami Burger and Anaheim Brewery.
The Center Street Promenade has, quite literally, changed the face of Downtown Anaheim, with a retro-revival of the area. Quaint shops, like Look Boutique and The GOOD Californian Haberdashery, jostle for attention with new shops that include 118 Degrees, BARBEER, Home: Eco-nomics, Healthy Junk, Heart & Sole, Gypsy Den, Center Street Cheese Shop, LOOK and The Yoga Mat.
UNITED STATES CALIFORNIA
So Little Time,So ManyShops
“Serious shopaholics and casual browsers can while away an
afternoon, a day or a whole week. ”
ORANGE COUNTY IS A SHOPPER’S IDEA OF HEAVEN
The Downtown Disney® District is where shopping and fun collide. Below Left: Center Street is a fusion of retro-modern chic and a diverse shopping treasure. Below Right: The Anaheim Packing House, set to open May 31, anchors the New Anaheim Packing District. Opposite page: South Coast Plaza® in Costa Mesa offers the highest concentration of brand retail.
ARTIC (Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center) is scheduled for
completion later this year.
MAY 2014 CANADIANTRAVELLER.NET 11
You don’t think shopping when you think Anaheim? You should. Here’s a rundown of the city’s favourite places for retail therapy: The Anaheim GardenWalk is Anaheim’s
go-to spot for fashion, food and fun. Shop at a variety of stores such as White House|Black Market, Los Angeles Harley-Davidson of Anaheim, LUSH Fresh Handmade Cosmetics or O’Neill.
The Downtown Disney® District is where shopping and fun collide, in the heart of the Disneyland® Resort. Wander through shops � lled with an array of items, from Disney® products to chic boutiques.
Orange County’s premier open-air shopping centre, Fashion Island® offers panoramic ocean views, towering palm trees and nearly 200 specialty shops and prestigious department stores.
An outstanding outdoor spot for shopping, dining and entertainment, Irvine Spectrum Center® offers a mix of well-known national retailers and more than 100 specialty shops such as Buckle, Urban Out� tters, Lucky Brand and bebe.
South Coast Plaza® in Costa Mesa offers a luxury shopping experience with more than 250 boutiques, personal shopping services and the highest concentration of brand retail, including Saks Fifth Avenue, A|X Armani Exchange, Louis Vuitton, J.Crew, Tiffany & Co. and Versace.
Shop, dine and play at The District at Tustin Legacy, which boasts retailers such as DSW, Denim Lab, Tilly’s and Vans.
Orange County’s only outlet centre, The Outlets at Orange has more than 120 outlet and value retail stores including Last Call by Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, Nordstrom Rack, Banana Republic Factory Store and Calvin Klein Company Store.
Something Completely DifferentNeed a break from the mega-centres?Here are a few places that are a bit off the beaten path: Corona Del Mar Plaza is an open-air,
seaside shopping centre in Newport
Beach that houses dozens of upscale stores with clothing and home goods.
The CAMP is O.C.’s only green indoor/outdoor retail campus offering unique retailers, such as SEED People’s Market and Active Ride Shop.
Geared for the young at heart, The LAB is Orange County’s renowned urban youth “anti-mall,” offering eclectic shopping at stores like Buffalo Exchange, The Sangri-La Jewelry Boutique and Blends shoe store.
The largest historic district in California, Old Towne Orange is a vintage treasure � lled with eclectic antique shops, pop culture memorabilia and plenty of nostalgia.
Getting AroundAnaheim Resort Transportation (ART) stops at Anaheim Garden-Walk, Outlets at Orange, Downtown Disney® District and Center Street. ARTIC (Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center), a transportation facility designed to connect various transit services reaching Southern California activity centres and business districts is scheduled for completion later this year. For a complete list of ART routes, visit www.rideart.org.
South Coast Plaza is accessible byshuttle service from 90 Anaheim area hotels. For more information, visitwww.southcoastplaza.com.
Cortona Inn & Suites
Hyatt House at Anaheim Resort/Convention Center (opens Spring 2015)
Hyatt House at Anaheim Resort/Convention Center is located in the heart of the Anaheim Resort—across the street from Disneyland® Resort Parks. With our casual vibe, contemporary décor and inviting social spaces, our hotel offers a unique and energetic experience whether you are visiting for pleasure or business. Tel: 714-971-1800Visit: www.hyatthouseanaheim.com
& SuitesFree Wifi& special
amenities inall hotels!
ThreeDisTincT hoTels
All in the AnaheimResort & Within Walking
Distance of the Disneyland®
Resort Parks!
Relax and unwind with us as you enjoy the fantastic sights, sounds and sun of Southern California. Our premier location is next to the Anaheim Convention Center and just 1½ blocks from the Disneyland® Resort Parks.Tel: 714-971-5000Visit: www.cortonainn.com
Hyatt Place at Anaheim Resort/Convention Center (opens July 2014)
Hyatt Place at Anaheim Resort/Convention Center combines style, innovation and 24/7 convenience, creating a seamless stay with every modern comfort you deserve. We are located next to the Anaheim Convention Center and just 1½ blocks from Disneyland® Resort Parks.Tel: 714-750-4000Visit: www.hyattplaceanaheimresort.com
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how to sell: shopping
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Shopping. It might sound like a mundane reason to go on vacation, but no. It isn’t. Not if you are shopping for something you like,
want, need and collect and at the same time exploring a new destination and new culture. Or, returning to a familiar place to explore and shop some more.
The act of shopping, you see, is in our genes. You can liken it to when mankind needed the ingredients to make a spear. Later we went looking, shopping for textiles to make our own clothes. Eventually it was to purchase food and utensils at the village market – then came shops. The act of shopping was therefore borne out of necessity. Mankind has overall lost so many skills, we now purchase what we used to make. To some, shopping is a chore. To others it’s heaven on earth. And for many of your clients, its an activity to pursue when travelling.
You’ve heard the call when cruising, “Big sale on now at the arcade…gold on sale. 50% off! Come down now!” It feels like a Black Friday at sea! Hey…there ya go. Your next cruise ’n’ shop promotion!
We know there’s a hankering for heading across the border to shop and if you didn’t know, Black Friday in the U.S. is on Friday, the 28th of November this year. You have time to arrange coach tours with enough luggage space to bring back those purchases.
Shopaholic ToursWhy not? You know you want to lead this set of tours. Across the border lie the big shopping malls and Alberta is not to be out done either. Hong Kong is no slouch when it comes to shopping and neither is London, England. These are all well-known places and thousands of people, including
It’s In The BagTap InTo one of our favourITe vacaTIon acTIvITIes – shoppIng
By Steve CrowhurSt, CtC
can promote your event far and wide to attract more book collectors.
The “Shopping &” SeriesSome travel agents pair golf with something else or something else with golf. Now you can pair something else with shopping. Let’s go to Las Vegas: Sevens, Shows & Shopping – fills the bill for a little
gambling, taking in the shows and then hitting the malls. Yes shopping can be the main reason for travelling, and it can also be a component of a package holiday, a cruise or a land tour that you focus on in your marketing.
Men Only Shopping ToursDon’t believe all you hear about those men, those husbands not wanting to shop. They sit in the car waiting or trail behind the shopping cart looking glum. It’s a well-practiced art that only men know about. But…talking Hogs, Ping or WW2 jeeps to new cars and you have a coach load of buyers ready to shop. You might have to factor in a few pubs along the way and that depends on the type
of male that’s wanting to shop and what they are shopping for. Your male shoppers might be outdoor types or indoor techno types – either way, from kayaks to software, there’s a new shopping client for you.
You can bet that the viewership of the Pawn Stars TV show featuring a Las Vegas pawn shop is mostly male and whenever I watch that show (you can learn a lot, honest) what always comes to mind is a tour called: The Greatest Pawn Shops of the World tour.
That’s it. The bag is full. You’ve got a couple of ideas for your shopping tour niche. Why not survey your clients, find out about their shopping preferences and then let them shop ‘til they drop money into your bag.
your clients, return each year to purchase what they missed last time.
Christmas MarketsYes it’s a long way off, however, people are planning their winter escapes and that includes shopping for that Christmas gift. You have time to plan a tour or two to Europe’s top Christmas markets.
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“Don’t believe all youhear about those men, those
husbands not wantingto shop.”
Collector’s Tours Collecting includes seeking, locating, acquiring, organizing, cataloging, displaying, storing, and maintaining whatever items are of interest to the individual collector – says Wikipedia. Seeking and locating are travel words to me. Check in with your clients to find out if they collect anything. Stamps, books, carvings, tapestries, beer mats…whatever exists is collected and shopped for. Perhaps you have 20 or so clients who like to collect books and maps. You have a ready-made shopping tour sitting in your client files. One more survey to find out where everyone would like to go to shop for their books and maps and you’ve started an annual event. Now you
Your male shoppers might be outdoor types or indoor techno types – either
way, from kayaks to software, there’s a new shopping client for you.
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To � nd out more about the Discover America - Canada Committee, attend a meeting or receive the bi-monthly newsletter, contact them by fax at (416) 352-5567, by e-mail at [email protected] or visit www.discoveramericacanada.org
Pet-Friendly Travel Across The U.S.A.By JoSePhINe MAtAyAS
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OH, how we love to travel with our pets! The four-legged family members are often included on vacation time and savvy destinations are pulling
out all the stops to accommodate them. Hotels, restaurants and city planners have recognized this travel trend and are making their destinations “pet friendly.” We’ve got ideas where to travel with your pets.
ColoradoSome say that Durango is a pet-obsessed town. The 100-hectare Durango Dog Park is a spot where dogs can run, roam and swim off leash. Dogs are also celebrated in the city’s public art – look for bronze canine sculptures, created by local artist Patsy Davis. In Denver, Hotel Monaco outfi ts rooms with food and water bowls and a dog bed. The Sheraton Downtown Denver Hotel’s 16Mix Pooch Patio has happy hour, which includes a dog bed and special dog treats. Named “The Best Hotel in Colorado” in the book Canine Colorado, Hotel Teatro goes above and beyond traditional pet-friendly offerings with its doggie services and amenities. All dogs receive complimentary accommodations in Hotel Teatro’s lavish guest rooms with their owners, but premier packages are also available. By choosing the “Bone Voyage” amenity, there are toys upon check in, followed by a quick trip to the park with the bellman, souvenir Hotel Teatro dog tags, gourmet biscuits and chilled Fiji water in silver bowls set upon bone-shaped placemats in-room. A Hotel Teatro concierge will gladly walk or run canine guests, as well as arrange dog-sitting services. In Fort Collins, the local breweries go the distance to make pets and owners feel welcome. Many allow dogs to be on outdoor brewery patios and many cater to dogs with water bowls and treats.
FloridaHotels and resorts in the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area pull out all the stops. At the Loews Don CeSar all pets receive their own gifts including a pet tag, bowl and a special treat. Pet services include the Loews Loves Pets room service menu and information on local dog walking routes. Pooches can be treated to a personalized dog massage treatment provided by a professional canine massage therapist in the comfort of their room. At the TradeWinds Island Grand Resort, the Paw Court Bistro offers room service gourmet menu options for visiting pets. The Paw Playground at nearby Fort De Soto Park has a dog beach and two fenced-in areas for large and small dogs. To the north, near Dunedin, dogs get their own beach on the southern tip of Honeymoon Island State Park.
MaineIn addition to being family friendly, Maine is also pet friendly with many of its high-end resorts and bed and breakfasts offering special pet packages. In historic Kennebunkport, the Captain Jefferds Inn can accommodate pets in its carriage house rooms. Dog bowls, towels, sheets, pick-up bags and personalized treats are all provided and each room has direct access to the outdoors. There is an
additional US $30 per-dog, per-day charge and excellent dog sitters are also available for a small charge. The Inn by the Sea, a spa resort located just minutes outside of Portland, offers a getaway package including two nights in a single-bedroom suite accommodation, a dog bowl, a personalized LL Bean dog bed, a
30-minute in-room doggie massage, nightly entrée selection from the Inn’s gourmet pet menu and a nightly pet turndown service including locally made seasonal dog treats. Inland, the Lodge at Moosehead Lake in Greenville has two dog-friendly suites, each with their own outside entrance. Dogs get a plush bed, bowls for food and water, towels and freshly made organic treats. Doggie massages are also available.
OregonIn Oregon, the Peppertree Inn near Beaverton offers a Bow Wow Package including a new squeaky toy, small package of doggie treats and the regular pet fee is waived with the purchase of the package. In August, visitors to the area bring their dogs to the annual Canine’s Uncorked, a day-long, self-guided wine trail, where dogs are given special treatment at 13 participating wineries, including doggie massages and pet psychics while the humans sample Oregon wines from local estate vineyards and wineries. Pets are also welcomed at Comfort Inn, Celilo Inn and Cousin’s County Inn hotels in The Dalles region. The area’s Sunshine Mill Wine Tasting Room and Maryhill Winery allow pets both inside their tasting rooms and on their patio seating areas.
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GoIN’ to the DoGs
Four-legged family members are often included on vacation time and savvy destinations are pulling
out all the stops to accommodate them.
CanadianTraveller.neT MAY 201430
Vegas Summer SizzlePools, Parks & shatner Make this hot Destination so Cool
One of the hottest destinations on the continent, Las Vegas continues to develop new ways to be cool with
outdoor venues, pool parties and Captain Kirk himself. Check it out.
Real NeighbourlyThe LINQ is the city’s newest open-air retail, dining and entertainment district in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. Caesars entertainment’s $550 million development is a pedestrian-friendly area with a neighbourhood vibe that features a full streetscape, venues like Brooklyn Bowl, Yard House, Ghirardelli, Bella Scarpa, Ruby Blue, Goorin Bros and Chilli Beans and live entertainment.
The Las Vegas High Roller anchors the district and serves as an iconic addition to the Las Vegas skyline. It is also the world’s largest observation wheel lighting up every night at sunset. The 2,000 LeD lights of the High Roller offer visitors to
Las Vegas a compelling vista of changing colours and patterns nightly and also showcase custom displays for special events and holidays.
Pool SeasonSummer is pool season in Las Vegas and MGM Resorts International offers a variety of options for each type of sun-worshipper.
Looking for a relaxing and luxurious escape? Reserve a premium chaise lounge chair or posh daybed at the intimate Cypress Pool at Bellagio. Chillax amid cypress trees; enjoy the impeccable service complete with a personal Cypress host; and take advantage of chilled towels and evian misters found within this pool garden oasis. You can even get a poolside massage.
Sun-worshippers looking for a party head to WeT RePUBLIC at MGM Grand. Recently expanded as part of a two-year remodel, this “it” dayclub serves up the ultimate daylife vibe produced by world-renowned DJs such as Calvin Harris, Steve Aoki and Tiësto.
united states NEVADA
The LINQ, anchored by the Las Vegas High Roller.
Temptation Sundays, a pool party where inhibitions are small and the suits are smaller.
William Shatner’s one-man show
plays June19 to 21.
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Want to place a bet? This is Vegas after all. Splash up to the Beachside Casino at Mandalay Bay Beach, just steps away from the crashing waves and real Californian sand of Vegas’ only beach. This climate-controlled, glass-fronted casino features blackjack, roulette and craps with fabulous views of the brilliant blue water in a casual yet upscale environment. Or rock out to acts like Counting Crows, Gavin DeGraw, Ziggy Marley, ReO Speedwagon and One Republic during the Beach’s Summer Concert Series.
For a european-style pool experience unwind at BARe Pool Lounge at The Mirage. This euro sunbathing haven offers palm tree-enclosed seclusion for guests ready to lose their inhibitions and tan lines. And don’t miss BARe Brunch on Sundays.
Over at the Luxor, Temptation Sundays, a pool party where inhibitions are small and the suits are smaller, is the longest-running Las Vegas LGBT pool party. everyone looking for a great day poolside with high-energy music and drink specials is welcome as resident DJ Matt Lucio and special guest DJs on the ones and twos keep the energy high every Sunday through September 28.
The Downtown Grand hotel hosts the city’s newest pool experience with PICnIC, the only rooftop pool experience in Vegas. Reminiscent of a ‘50s pool oasis, PICnIC is
setting the scene for live entertainment and fi lm screenings throughout the year. Share a picnic basket and a blanket on the grass. Have a meal at a communal picnic table. Take a dip into the infi nity pool. enjoy a cocktail while taking in the incomparable vistas of Downtown3rd and Fremont Street experience. Play blackjack under the stars.
The One & OnlyMGM Grand Hotel & Casino hosts television and movie legend William Shatner for a three-night engagement of his one-man show Shatner’s World: We Just Live In It June 19 to 21 at the Hollywood Theatre.
Known as much for his unique persona as for his expansive body of work on television and the big screen, Shatner takes his audiences on a 90-minute voyage through his life and career, from Shakespearean stage actor to internationally known icon and personality.
Tickets are available online at mgmgrand.com or ticketmaster.com, or by phone at (866) 740-7711 or (702) 891-7777.
www.thetravelagentsstore.com
Join the store member list and receive advance notice of new
titles and a member’s discount.
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educational tools.
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Rock out at MandalayBay Beach’s Summer
Concert Series.Below: Chillax and enjoy the impeccable service
at Cypress Pool.
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Make It Mexico IT’S CLOSE, EASY TO GET TO & A GREAT SUMMER VALUE
BY B ANG
FANCY soaking up more sun this summer? Head on down to Mexico, a destination popular with Canadians due in part to its proximity, easy access and
the fact that it offers great value for money. Here’s a sneak preview of what some tour operators have lined up this summer:
Air Canada Vacations (ACV)Air Canada Vacations has introduced a new non-stop fl ight from Vancouver to Puerto Vallarta on Sundays. AC1742 departs YVR at 11:00 a.m. and arrives in Puerto Vallarta at 5:40 p.m. Flight 1743 leaves PVR at 6:40 p.m. and lands in YVR at 9:50 p.m.
Using newly reconfi gured B767-300ER planes that can accommodate 280 passengers, Air Canada rouge is now being used on the daily fl ights from Toronto to Cancun. Air Canada rouge fl ights between Montreal and Cancun will operate on the 136-seat A319 aircraft.
ACV has added two new resorts to its line-up. In Puerto Vallarta, the recently opened Iberostar Playa Mita in Riviera Nayarit offers a wide range of activities for all ages including world-class golf on a
Greg Norman-designed course, numerous spa packages, and kids and teens clubs.
Another property that has just made its debut is Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort in Los Cabos. This adults-only hotel provides swim-up suites and unlimited premium drinks at the bars and restaurants. As an added bonus, it offers a free “Secrets Wedding in Paradise Package” and complimentary newlywed and anniversary packages. The hotel is situated next to two golf courses designed by Greg Norman and Jack Nicklaus that feature oceanfront holes with amazing views.
Mexi-Can HolidaysIn a special arrangement, Mexi-Can Holidays work jointly with JBC Travel to cater to the Chinese-speaking market in Canada. This summer, their new “Silver Route” will take clients to Mexico City, Taxco (known for its silver) and Acapulco, the latter being an important port in history for the Chinese as their entry point into the Americas.
Other new programs include gastronomy tours to Oaxaca and the Yucatan, and a combination of golf and deep sea fi shing
in Cabo San Lucas. For its religious tours, a stop at Jalisco has been added to see the historic statues of the Virgin of Zapopan and Our Lady of San Juan de Los Lagos.
Sunquest VacationsSales of the tour operator’s summer program to Mexico are shaping up to be quite strong, said Kerry Sharpe, Director – Corporate Communications, TravelBrands Inc., parent company of Sunquest Vacations.
While other companies are reducing air capacity in summer, Sunquest continues to offer every available Canadian or U.S. carrier fl ight to Mexico, said Sharpe. She noted that packages with fl exible time schedules are growing in demand and Sunquest is conveniently offering trips of any duration, from any Canadian gateway and any hotel room category. Plus, there is still strong demand for Sunquest’s cross border fl ights from the U.S. to Mexico which offer substantial savings.
“Cancun is still our number one destination but we are seeing some good summer pick-up for Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos,” she added.
MEXICO SUMMER DEALS
rivieramaya.com
RivieraMaya @RivieraMaya
be Riviera Maya be adventurous
“Cancun is still our number one destination,”
Kerry Sharpe, Director – Corporate Communications, TravelBrands Inc..
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Sunwing VacationsClients can choose from 43 properties in Mexico with Sunwing Vacations. Among them is the 1,183-room Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, which recently opened its doors for business. The property lies 10 minutes away from the Cancun International Airport.
Amenities at the hotel include conference facilities, business centre, 12 pools, one buffet and eight a la carte restaurants, 14 bars, 24-hour room service. For minors, there are separate clubs for children (from 4 to 12) and teens. The property will also add themed children’s characters, Mike the Knight and Max & Ruby from popular animated TV shows. Some Family Suites feature swim-outs or rooftop pool. There is also an 18+ area of the hotel that includes guestrooms and pool.
As part of its Luxury & Family Collection, guestrooms feature the “DreamBed”, a handcrafted designer bed equipped with a system that prevents motion transfer. USB and Bluetooth audio stations are also available in the guestrooms, as is a mini bar. Using the free Royalton app, guests receive an unlimited free calling plan within the property and app-to-app texting. There is complimentary WiFi throughout the property and free in-room calls to North America.
WestJet VacationsWestJet Vacations is geared up for another robust summer to Mexico – specifically to Cancun/Mayan Riviera with 18 flights a week, an increase of three from 2013. As a special promotion, many hotels are offering one or two children stay free for the entire summer.
The tour operator has recently added the Hard Rock Hotel Cancun to its portfolio. This entertainment-focused hotel caters both to adults and families. Among the amenities found in guestrooms are private balconies, flat screen LCD televisions with premium satellite channels, a well stocked mini-bar and a selection of wine. All rooms also come equipped with a liquor dispenser that offers top shelf whiskey, tequila, rum and vodka. For little tykes, the hotel provides pint-size plush robes, kid’s menus and The Little Big Club provides scheduled activities including ballet, singing and dancing.
Another new property that has come online in December 2013 is the Iberostar Playa Mita, Puerto Vallarta. With a private beachfront, amenities at this 452-room hotel include disco, tennis courts, library and specialty restaurants including an adult train themed fine dining eatery, Pacific
Express. There is also an 18-hole golf course designed by Greg Norman.
Also opened in December 2013 is the 500-room adults only Secrets Puerto Los Cabos Golf & Spa Resort. Set in exclusive luxury community of Puerto Los Cabos, it lies 10 minutes away from San José del Cabo. This luxury all-suite property features eight restaurants, four bars and the Secrets Spa by Pevonia. Guests can make free calls to Canada, the U.S. and local Mexican land lines and free WiFi throughout the resort.
The Platinum Yucatan Princess All Suites & Spa Resort is currently close to being completed and is scheduled to open in late Summer/early Fall. This 472-all suite adults only resort will have 146 guestrooms with direct pool access. An extra perk in the Honeymoon Suites is the hydro-massage tub on the terrace. Among the hotel’s amenities are meeting facilities, five restaurants and one nightclub, baseball practice field, and an open trail for running and walking.
“Clients can choose from 43 properties in Mexico with Sunwing Vacations.”
Iberostar Playa Mita offers world-class golf on a Greg Norman-designed course. Below: The Royalton Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa sits just 10 minutes from the Cancun International Airport.
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Kenya Keeps ’Em ComingA WeAlth Of experiences thAt cOntinues tO AttrAct VisitOrs
By B Ang
Mention Kenya and the movie blockbuster, “Born Free” springs to mind. indeed, besides the big
cats lazing around the veldt, Kenya is also home to a wide variety of wildlife. the destination offers a wealth of experiences that continues to attract visitors. Here are what some Canadian tour operators have lined up this summer:
Bestway Tours & Safaris – A Learning ExperienceKenya’s Wildlife Secret: The Big Five & the Endangered Species is the latest product itinerary developed by Bestway tours & Safaris. As the title implies, this tour is geared not only for seeing the Big Five but also places special emphasis on endangered species plus the efforts being made to help reinstate their numbers. During this trip, clients can look forward to rare viewings of animals such as the Grevy’s zebra (the largest and most endangered zebra species), Jackson’s hartebeest, spotted hyenas and chimpanzees.
the tour takes in Aberdares national Park, Lake nakuru national Park and
a boat ride on Lake naivasha (known for its 350 bird species). At the ol Pejeta Conservancy, visitors can learn more about the largest black rhino sanctuary in east Africa which is also home to southern white rhinos and the critically endangered northern white rhinos. this is also the only place in Kenya to see chimpanzees.
the itinerary ends with four game drives at the Mara national Reserve. Masai Mara, one of the most well known game sanctuaries in the world, offers large animal viewing with its exceptionally big population of lions, leopards and cheetahs. it also falls on the animal migration route bringing in large numbers of zebras, wildebeest and thomson’s gazelles. An optional hot-air balloon safari can be added to the itinerary here.
Accommodations for this tour include Serena Sweet Waters Camp, the Flamingo Hill tented Camp and Mara Serena Lodge.
Exotik Tours – Quick & Easyin response to the number of passengers requesting fly-in safaris, exotik will be offering more of such trips. Clients can look forward to spending more time actually
doing things on their tours since it takes less time getting to and from a destination. Plus, it’s less of a discomfort, said Michael Mullin, director of sales, exotik tours.
As an add-on to the safari, exotik also offers beach stays on the east coast at Mombassa. Arguably, Mombassa has some of the best beaches in Africa and diverse marine life can be found here. Beaches aside, Mombassa’s old town retains much of the influences from its past, including the Arab architecture amid narrow winding streets and the aromatic scent of spices in the air. the town overlooks a wide harbour, filled with commercial ships alongside traditional sailing dhows. Alternatively, guests can also choose to head to other seaside destinations like Zanzibar or Mauritius.
G Adventures – Going LocalFor G Adventures, its Local Living Kenya – Masai Village tour features a five-day stay in a remote village. Here, guests receive first-hand experience in everyday life skills of the Masai people including identifying different animal tracks, spear throwing, cooking and making traditional beaded jewelry. With the warriors, they also get to learn survival skills,
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Guests staying at Giraffe Manor in Nairobi can look
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CanadianTraveller.neT MAY 201436
go bush camping, play night watchman over the camp (among their duties is to guard the camp from animal predators) and witness a traditional Masai ceremony. the itinerary also makes a stop at a local school to see how the education system is integrating traditional cultural practices.
As a special promotion, bookings for select stays between July 1 and August 30 are entitled to a 15-per cent discount.
Goway Travel – A Historical LinkUnder its best selling itineraries, East Africa Safari and the Essential Kenya, Goway, has added visits to Samburu national Reserve and Lake elmenteita.
Lying within the ancient land of the Samburu people in the Rift Valley Province, the ewaso ng’iro River is the lifeline of the park. Home to nile crocodiles, the river attracts the likes of elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hippos and over 350 bird species. Rare animals like the long-necked gerenuk, Grevy’s zebra and the reticulated giraffe can be found in the reserve, an area north of the river. Among the wildlife it has hosted, Samburu was home to, elsa, the lioness of Born Free fame.
Besides wildlife, Samburu has deep historical signifi cance. Between the 1960s and 1970s, more than 160 fossil remains of early man (including Homo habilis and Homo erectus) were discovered here. to date, an additional 4,000 mammal and Stone Age artifacts have also been uncovered.
For its 4D Fly-In Kenya Safari, accommodation is at the Samburu intrepids Camp. offering 27 luxurious tents with views of the river, units come with private verandahs. other onsite amenities include pool, restaurant, bar and massage services. the feathered species and plains game are attracted to Lake elmentaita Serena in the Great Rift Valley. Luxury accommodation at Lake elmenteita Serena Camp offers views of the lake against a backdrop of ancient volcanoes. Facilities include pool, bar, restaurant and dry cleaning service.
in nairobi, Goway has added the unique luxurious 10-room Giraffe Manor into its inventory. Guests staying at this colonial
building can look forward to the resident Rothschild giraffes popping into the Manor (via its windows) in the mornings and evenings to greet guests and check out the food. the owners of Giraffe Manor have dedicated the land to the preservation of this
threatened giraffe species.this summer, the company will introduce
private, daily departures for groups with at least four passengers at no extra cost.
Reservations Africa – A Destination For All AgesAs a medium to high-end tour operator, Reservations Africa offers fully customized itineraries to suit travelling time frames and clients’ interests.
According to owner Marianne Schaubeck, “this is quite an exciting time for Kenya, as there are increasingly more and more small, intimate game lodges opening up in private areas, all in excellent game areas. this is great news for us as we tend to avoid the overcrowded areas as i think it detracts from the safari experience.” Reservations Africa is seeing a rise in multi-generational family travel to Kenya.
indeed, Kenya is an experience the entire family can enjoy together.
Call Toll Free 800 245 0920 or visit www.goway.com
*Per person, twin. Subject to availability. Includes all taxes. TICO#1543989. 3284 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON.
AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST
*Per person, twin. Travel in Nov'14. Land only. TICO# 1543989 BC# 833.
VALUE KENYA 9 days $2512 Land only
8 nights accommodation, transfers, most meals, all game drives and park fees. Ask us about special airfares!
*
“This is quite an exciting time for Kenya, as there are increasingly
more and more small, intimate game lodges opening up in private areas,”
Marianne Schaubeck
Guests receive fi rst-hand experience in everyday life skills of the Masai people on G Adventures’ Local Living Kenya – Masai Village fi ve-day village stay.
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doing things on their tours says Michael Mullin, director
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MAY 2014 CanadianTraveller.neT 37
KenYa aiRWaYSkenya aiRWays Has its eyes set FiRMLy UPon tHe Canadian MaRket
T HrouGH its partnership with Air Canada, Kenya Airways has been serving the Canadian market for
some 12 years. And now the airline has its eyes on becoming an even bigger contender on the Canadian aviation scene.
“With our expanding network and the addition of the 787 Dreamliners into our fl eet, we hope to be operating to Canada by 2017,” explained Mable Tang, regional sales manager at Kenya Airways.
The expansion into Canada is part of the airline’s 10-year strategic plan, ‘Project Mawingu’. Mawingu marks a massive investment in new aircraft, smarter cabins, impressive lounges and new technologies.
“The plan focuses on increasing our fl eet from 44 planes to 107 by 2021, and from 62 destinations to 115 worldwide,” added Tang.
The plan entered a new phase last month when the airline took delivery of the fi rst of the six 787 Dreamliner planes expected this year. The new aircraft refl ect the carrier’s deliberate efforts to increase its capacity for long haul routes to destinations like Paris, Amsterdam and Beijing.
However, the carrier is also in the process of expanding its footprint in Africa, with a new Nairobi-Abuja route, which is due to take off on June 3.
The introduction of direct fl ights to Abuja, Nigeria, demonstrates the airline’s commitment to supporting the continent’s development by facilitating intra-African trade and tourism. Indeed, the airline aims to be fl ying to every single African capital by 2016.
“There has always been a demand for travel to west Africa, but travel to this region has been very diffi cult, as there is limited air service,” said Tang. “Canadian travel agents are now able to book Kenya Airways to Abuja and know that their clients will receive the level of service and comfort they would expect from a world-class airline.”
A world-class airline should boast world-class punctuality rankings, and that’s something that Kenya Airways certainly has to be proud of.
Statistics for February show that the carrier had the highest punctualityratings into and out of London Heathrow. All of the airline’s departing fl ightswere 100 per cent punctual, while75 per cent of those arriving wereon time.
With a punctuality rating like that, expecting to see Kenya Airways operating in Canada by 2017 does not seem at all unlikely.
aIrLIne sPOTliGHT
For Kenya Airways Sales and Reservations, please call
1-866-536-9224
Kenya Airways’ ‘Project Mawingu’ will see the
airline’s fl eet grow from 44 planes to 107 by 2021.
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ACRT-14-54_CanadianTraveller_Eng.indd 1
Your clients have been asking for it for long enough – and now Air Canada is delivering.
In a Canadian aviation first, Air Canada is the first carrier in the country to offer its passengers in-flight Wi-Fi connectivity.
This long-awaited techno-transformation will turn previously-wasted flight time into productive office time or valuable leisure time.
The airline is rolling out connectivity across its North American fleet this month under an agreement with leading aircraft communications service provider, Gogo. The system offers peak connection speeds comparable to mobile broadband services available on the ground. Connection prices will be competitive with other in-flight Wi-Fi connectivity offerings.
Air Canada currently has two Wi-Fi-equipped Airbus 319 aircraft operating in Canada and the u.S. and – subject to a final agreement with Gogo – the company plans to begin outfitting its remaining Airbus A319, A320 and A321 and Embraer 190 fleet types, as well as its Air Canada Express CrJ-705 and Embraer 175 aircraft, with Air-To-Ground Wi-Fi connectivity.
The installations begin this month, with the goal of equipping 29 aircraft in 2014 and a targeted completion date of December 2015 for the designated 130 narrow-body aircraft.
“Air Canada continually seeks to enhance the travel experience and that is why we are pleased to be the first airline in Canada to offer in-flight Wi-Fi connectivity to
customers flying over continental North America,” said Benjamin Smith, the airline’s executive vice-president and chief commercial officer.
“In today’s connected world, our customers want to access e-mail, mobile device applications and the internet wherever they are, both to increase their work productivity and expand their leisure options. The introduction of Wi-Fi across our narrow-body North American
fleet will be another welcome amenity for customers.”
Gogo has also provided Air Canada the opportunity to type-trial two satellite-based systems, using Gogo 2Ku and Inmarsat GlobalXpress KA-band solutions. These tests are expected to be conducted in 2015. The results will help determine future connectivity options that can be considered as the technology continues to evolve.■ www.aircanada.com.
You’ve WaitedLong enoughWi-Fi ConneCtivity takes oFF in Canada
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“In today’s connected world, our customers want internet access wherever they are.”Benjamin Smith, executive vice-president and chief commercial officer, Air Canada
Air Canada is the first airline in the
country to offer its passengers Wi-Fi
connectivity.
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