Improved customs/entry for Canadians at Pearson ... Jaunt.ca deal of the day

Those new Automated Border Kiosks went live yesterday in Terminal 1 at Toronto Pearson Airport, which should help considerably with the customs process.

In a note I received from the p.r. folks at the airport, I was told the kiosks can be used by Canadian passport holders returning home.

"You enter your (customs) declaration card and scan your passport, then you get a receipt and move on. A CBSA (customs and border/security) officer checks the paperwork and then you go to the baggage hall.

"No membership, no sign up – just scan your passport."

Border rules apply, so this doesn't mean you can go sneaking in 14 gallons of Crown Royal or $5,000 worth of clothes from the cheaper American Target stores. Still, it's a big improvement.

There are 20 of the kiosks in effect at Terminal One. They also have 20 at Terminal 3, which has had the system since February.

NOVA SCOTIA COMES TO TORONTO

Here's a great idea. The folks at Nova Scotia tourism will be re-creating the world-famous Peggy's Cove Lighthouse in downtown Toronto next week.

The likeness will arise at Bay and Wellington at noon next Wednesday, May 15. So check it out. And remember: it's BYOFAC - bring your own fish and chips.

FLY ME TO THE MOON ... AND MARS

Wow. Thirty five Canadians have signed up for a one-way trip to Mars on a space flight. We haven't actually figured out how to make the trip just yet. And certainly not how to get back. But some folks are just adventurous that way. Or maybe they're depressed about the Maple Leafs' prospects.

Personally, I wouldn't mind seeing Dion Phaneuf take the trip given his bonehead play in game four.

As for me, I think I'll take a pass. To quote Elton John, "Mars ain't the kind of place to raise the kids. In fact, it's cold as hell."

WESTJET KUDOS

WestJet today announced it has once again been named Canada's most-preferred airline in a national study of Canadian flyers conducted in April of this year by Leger Marketing. The study also rated WestJet as the most trusted airline and the airline that offers the best customer service.

In a separate study also conducted by Leger Marketing, WestJet is also ranked as the most reputable transportation company in Canada. Leger's Canadian Corporate Reputation Study ranked the airline tops among six airlines, rail and bus companies.

PORTER STOPS RELEASING LOAD FACTORS

I thought something was funny the other day when WestJet reported its latest load factors, but Porter didn't follow suit. It turns out there was more to it than I thought.

The Financial Post reported today that Porter has stopped releasing its monthly figures on what percentage of its seats were filled. They claim it's normal procedure, but it seems strange that they did it for years and now, with their numbers slipping, have stopped.

In an earlier report, Porter said that for March their load factor fell 1.7 per cent to 58.1. Air Canada and WestJet have been reporting load factors higher than 80 per cent.

I'm no financial analyst but the failure to report can't be a good sign for Porter.

BOMBARDIER JET TEST COMING

The Star's Vanessa Lu reports today that the CSeries jetliner from Bombardier - the ones Porter says it wants to buy and fly out of longer runways at the Toronto Island Airport - is set to take off in late June for its first flight as promised.

“Most of the issues that could trip us up are behind us,” said Guy Hachey, president of Bombardier’s aerospace unit, after the company’s annual meeting in Montreal on Thursday.

“We’re still feeling very good about flying in June. Obviously there are always some risks until the end. I don’t anticipate any major delays if something were to happen,” Hachey told reporters.

JAUNT.CA DEAL OF THE DAY

Jaunt.ca, a division of Torstar, has a deal on tap for the Dominican Republic, priced at $746, including $387 in taxes.

Jaunt Highlights

• SAVINGS: Two travellers save up to $112 by booking with Jaunt.ca!
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• All-inclusive 7-night stay at the Barcelo Puerto Plata, located in the Dominican Republic
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• FREE CONNECTOR FLIGHTS: The cost of your connector flight from Kingston (ON), Ottawa or Montreal to Toronto is FREE
• OPTIONAL UPGRADE: Enhance your vacation by upgrading your airfare to Executive Class (C Class) which includes premium wines, spirits and cuisine, Maple Leaf Lounge access, extra baggage allowance, priority check-in and more!
• Accommodations in a Double Room, featuring 1 king or 2 twin beds and a balcony or terrace. Maximum occupancy: 3 adults + 1 child
• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, and unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
  
  

• Valid for travel on May 29, 2013
• Pricing (Rates are per person, plus tax):
  
  Economy:
  Double: $359
  Single: $409
  Triple: $333
  Child: $349
  Tax: $387
  
  Executive Class (C Class):
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  Single: $508
  Triple: $432
  Child: $448
  Tax: $387
  
  Other DATES and GATEWAYS available.
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• Why choose Air Canada Vacations?
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• Valid passport required for travel from Canada
• This offer is 100% non-refundable at time of booking

 

 

 

Florida's 500th birthday touches down in T.O./Porter/WestJet news/Deal of day

It's tough to cover the entire Sunshine State in an hour. But they made a pretty good attempt at it.

Folks from Florida's tourism department put on a breakfast at the Hazelton Hotel in Toronto today, serving up French toast and eggs and delicious orange juice (Florida variety, I presume). There were representatives from Miami, Naples, Sarasota, Orlando, Tampa, Amelia Island, Fort Lauderdale, The Space Coast, Fort Myers/Sanibel, The Palm Beaches and more, including some smaller, old-time places such as Flagler Beach (between Daytona and St. Augustine) and Crystal River, about 80 minutes north of Tampa.

It would take way too long to go over the details, but here a few tidbits/highlights to whet your Florida whistle:

- Ponce de Leon "discovered" Florida in April, 1513. There's a replica of one of his ships sailing the waters of the area he called "La Florida" right now.

- The $100 million Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibition opens in late June at the Kennedy Space Center.

- Greater Fort Lauderdale gets 3,000 hours of sunshine a year and there's a new Barbie Dreamhouse Experience opening at Sawgrass MIlls shopping centre tomorrow (May 8).

- Miami (this is from their p.r. person) has a temptation for everyone, "no matter what your vice." They also have upcoming months focussed on deals for romance, golf (speaking of vice), restaurants and spas. On top of that, they're getting set to open a 30-acre museum park with a science museum and an art museum and a new Metro station.

- The Inn on Fifth in Naples has undergone a major renovation and now has club level suites with larger space and 24-hour concierge service, while the Omni Amelia Island (a great beach location) near Jacksonville just underwent an $85 million reno.

- Tampa has several new hotel options, including a new Aloft on the HIllsborough River and a Le Meridien inside the old federal courthouse. In Tampa's Hyde Park historic district, a 137-room boutique hotel called The Epicuream will open in Dec. 2013. It will devoted to "extraordinary culinary experiences" and is being developed in collaboration with Bern's Steak House. It also will be the first newly constructed property in the U.S. to join the Autograph Collection of Marriott International and will sport a rooftop lounge. Nice idea.

- In Naples, there's a Dolphin Explorer Cruise you can take with scientists who study dolphins; a fun and educational experience, I'd think. They also have a new children's museum and a kids' area in the Naples Botanical Garden.

- They call The Palm Coast and Flagler Beaches area "the quiet side of Florida," with a real, old-time feel. I've seen photos and I like the look of the place, but alas have never been. Noting her area is between Daytona's famous speedway and historic St. Augustine, a public relations woman called the coast "between The Fast and The Past."

- Sea World Orlando will soon open "the coldest attraction in Florida," a ride/exhibit called Antarctica; The Empire of the Penguins.

- Orlando is adding a giant Ferris Wheel that's a replica of The Eye in London.

- There are 90 public golf courses in Fort Myers, not to mention excellent beaches and bird-watching opportunities. I had no idea, but there's also an Amish/Mennonite area of town.

AIRLINE COMPETITION. ISN'T THAT A GOOD THING?

I had to laugh at the Globe's Report on Business this morning. They had a solid story on WestJet starting its new Encore service and Air Canada getting ready to launch its discount Rouge service. The story talked about how the increased competition might mean too much capacity or could mean big discounts. When the story turned from the front page of the section, there was a headline that said "fare wars are feared."

Maybe if you're an investor, they are. But if you're a consumer like you and me, the appropriate headline might be: "fare wars could be coming: LET'S PARTY!!!!"

Speaking of WestJet, it's fascinating to see the front page story in today's Star on how the federal government has said the airline can now operate with one flight attendant for every 50 passengers, rather than the previous standard of one for every 40. The move allegedly was made to put Canadian airlines in line with U.S. and international standards.

But a union official made a good point in today's Star.

“What does competitiveness with U.S. airlines have to do with the safety of these employees and the flying public,” asked Paul Moist, national president of the Canadian Union of Public Employees, which represents flight attendants at such airlines as Air Canada, Air Transat, Canjet and Sunwing.

An excellent point.

PORTER DEBATE CONTINUES

I think that was a pretty major victory for Porter on Tuesday, getting Toronto city council to sign off on studies (at Porter's expense) on how jets would impact the Island Airport. It sounds like the airline has made some concessions to opponents such as councillor Adam Vaughan, so we'll see where it goes. But I like their chances of getting final approval later this year; a move with wide implications for the tourism biz in Toronto and for travellers.

JAUNT.CA DEAL OF THE DAY

Jaunt.ca, a division of Torstar, has a deal this week for a 3-night bus tour to fabulous Chicago for just $489, all in.

• 3-Night, 4-Day Escorted Chicago Bus Tour, with transportation from Toronto via Deluxe Motorcoach
• 3-nights' accommodation at the Quality Inn Schaumburg (or similar) with daily breakfast
• Includes guided sightseeing tours of Chicago and Oak Park – including a River Cruise on the Chicago River, visits to Lincoln Park Zoo & Gardens and Wrigley Field, shopping on the Magnificent Mile, and more!

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Offer Details

• Valid for travel on June 14, 2013
• Pricing (Rates are per person, tax included):
  
  Double: $489
  Single: $689
  Triple: $469
  Quad: $439
  Child: $289 (11 yrs and under sharing with two adults)
  
  
• Depart from any of the following pick-up locations:
  
  5:30 am: Scarborough Town Centre (near YMCA)
  230 Town Centre Court
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  6:30 am: Vaughan Mills Shopping Centre
  Omega Tours Office  
  Unit 55-3175 Rutherford Road
  Vaughan, ON
  L4K 5Y6
  
  7:15 am: Square One
  151 city Centre Drive
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  8:15am: Real Canadian Superstore
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  361 South Service Rd
  
  
• Please arrive 30 minutes prior to pick-up time. All departure times are dependant on traffic.
• Complimentary parking available at Sarracini Travel located at Vaughan Mills Shopping Centre
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• Valid passport is required. If you are born outside of Canada, you must have a valid passport along with a visitor's visa. We do not take responsibility for anyone who is denied entry into the United States.
• This offer is refundable until 5 PM EST on May 8, 2013. After that time, this offer is 100% non-refundable.

 

Looking for love in the air? Try United or Delta ... Jaunt.Ca deal of the day: Disney

I wrote an item recently about Sir Richard Branson's Virgin airline launching a way for folks to buy each other a drink on board as a way of making a mile-high introduction. Now comes a report suggesting the best airlines (alas, only American ones) for making a love connection.

According to a story in the Atlanta Journal Constituion, your best chances are on a Delta Air Lines flight if the object of your desire is a single woman. The "destination-dating" website MissTravel.com surveyed 2,000 single female travelers to find out which airline they use most often and 28 percent said Delta was their No. 1 choice. The airline was preferred by 13 percent more women than those who chose No. 2 United Airlines. Delta and United are the No. 1 and No. 2 largest U.S. carriers, respectively.

United was followed by US Airways, Southwest, Virgin, JetBlue and AirTran.

Single women also appear to be more talkative while traveling, according to MissTravel.com. Sixty-four acknowledged they speak to strangers at airports or on flights than anywhere else; 39 percent said that they have or would consider dating someone they met during a flight.

Brandon Ware, the website's founder, suggested airlines increase their appeal to women traveling for leisure and the woman "who may have her eyes open for a potential love interest."

CHEAP U.S. AIRPORTS STILL LURING CANADIANS

The exodus of Canadians to cheaper airport south of the border shows no signs of abating. A CBC story out of WInnipeg says folks in Canada's avaiation industry are quite worried.

"What we really need to do is get airports, airlines and government in the room together to develop a new, national air travel strategy," said Daniel-Robert Gooch of the Canadian Airports Council.

Gooch was speaking at the Western Canadian Aviation Forum in Manitoba last week.

Canadians flying from U.S. airports "is a growing problem," said Senator Dennis Dawson, chairman of the Senate transport and communications committee. "It has been a problem for a yew years, but every year it grows by about 15, 20 per cent, so that means it is revenue lost for Canada."

Gooch said Ottawa needs to look at fees and taxes levied on Canadians and that lower fees would encourage Canadians to fly out of Canadian airports. But the federal government appears unwilling to do much about it.

Steven Fletcher, Canada's miniser of state for transport, suggested taxpayers shouldn't subsidize people's flights.

"Why would a Canadian taxpayer want to subsidize a trip to the Caribbean? Because that's essentially what is being argued."

THIS AND THAT: Cabot Links golf open ... Air Canada Vacations ... Wales and New York news

Cabot Links, which is an absolutely outstanding golf course in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, is open for the season. They've reworked the course a bit and created a new 12th hole, which means six holes are right on the ocean (and the others have ocean views). They also have upgraded and renovated the clubhouse bar, which has great views of the course ... Members of Aeroplan have another way to earn miles or points. Aeroplan has signed a deal with The UPS Store Canada, giving customers more options for earning flights ... Air Canada Vacations has added Turkey to its lineup for the first time. Starting in June of this year, they'll offer nonstop flights to fabulous Istanbul  ... Happy first birthday to the Wales Coast Path. The path traverses The only footpath of its kind on the planet, the Wales Coast Path encircles all three sides of the Welsh Peninsula, along the entire 870 miles of its pristine coastline, encouraging visitors and residents alike to ‘discover the shape of the nation.’ It's a gorgeous coastline, I can tell you that. I especially loved the area around Nefyn when I was there for a golf trip a few years ago ... Starwood is spending $400 million renovating some of its top properties in New York City, including The Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel, W New York – Times Square, W New York - Union Square, W New York, The Westin New York at Times Square and The Westin New York Grand Central. I stayed at the W at Union Square last summer and thought it was terrific.

JAUNT.CA DEAL OF THE DAY

Jaunt.ca, a division of Torstar, has a fine deal on tap for Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort in Orlando, Florida, priced at $1,344, including $145 in taxes.

Jaunt Highlights

• BONUS: Includes 7-Day Magic Your Way Base Tickets with FREE UPGRADE to Park Hopper Option which gives you the flexibility to come and go through all 4 Walt Disney World Theme Parks on the same day for the entire length of your ticket!
• BONUS: Receive one $25 HBC gift card per adult booked
• 7-night stay at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort
• Includes return airfare from Toronto or Montreal to Orlando with Air Canada, and round-trip hotel/airport transfers in Florida
• Accommodations in a Standard View Room, featuring 2 double beds. Max. occupancy: 4 adults or 2 adults + 2 children

• The island feel of Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort enhances your experience in the world's most magical vacation destination
• You'll be close to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios
• Enjoy the ultimate family vacation - create memories to last a lifetime!

Offer Details

• Valid for travel on the following departure dates:
  Toronto: June 13, July 30 & Aug 6, 2013                                   
  Montreal: June 6, 2013
• Pricing: (Rates are per person);
  
  Toronto:
  June 13, 2013:
  Double: $1199 + tax
  Single: $1839 + tax
  Triple: $1029 + tax
  Quad: $949 + tax
  Child (age 2-17): $559 + tax
  Tax: $145
  
  July 30 & August 6, 2013:
  Double: $1319 + tax
  Single: $1939 + tax
  Triple: $1159 + tax
  Quad: $1079 + tax
  Child (age 2-17): $699 + tax
  Tax: $145
  
  
  Montreal:
  June 6, 2013
  Double: $1294 tax included
  Single: $1884 tax included
  Triple: $1124 tax included
  Quad: $1044 tax included
  Child (age 2-17): $694 tax included
  
  For FLIGHT TIMES, OTHER DATES and GATEWAYS call us at 1-855-687-5925.
  
  
• Add a Meal Plan: Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan offers dining at over 50 select restaurants throughout the Walt Disney World Resort and is available to add on to your package. To add Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan to your booking call our travel professionals at 1-855-687-5925.
  
• Magic Your Way Theme Park Ticket with Park Hopper Option: This option gives you the flexibility to come and go through all four Walt Disney World Theme Parks: Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.
• Why choose Air Canada Vacations?
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• Valid passport required for travel from Canada
• This offer is 100% non-refundable at time of booking

Suing Air Canada over a 7up served in English ... Transformers ... Deal of day

At first glance, it is to laugh. The Supreme Court of Canada, CP reports, has agreed to hear the appeal of a couple who sued Air Canada when they weren't able to order a 7up soda in French.

It's a sad joke, you think to yourself. I mean, really? A 7up? They couldn't say 7up in English or point to a can or say "Sprite" or something?

We all know English speakers can run afoul of absurd language rules in Quebec. And we'll hear a lot about that as this case gets to the court, I'm sure.

But that's missing the point. Air Canada is mandated to serve people in both of our official languages. It's a legal requirement.

The 7up thing is silly on its own. Stupid, even. But if you read the fuller story you'll find that Michel and Lynda Thibodeau filed eight complaints with the official languages commissioner over what they say was English-only service they got on Air Canada flights between January and May, 2009.

You'll also find that Air Canada admitted fault. Here's the Canadian Press story on the Federal Court ruling from July, 2011, the ruling that's being appealled to the Supreme Court.

 Air Canada must pay $12,000 and apologize to an Ottawa couple after admitting it failed to provide them with services in French, a Federal Court judge ruled Wednesday.

However, the judge decided against imposing punitive damages, saying the carrier has tried to comply with its obligations under the Official Languages Act.

The case arose out of two trips Michel and Lynda Thibodeau made in the first half of 2009 between Ottawa and the United States.

They argued they couldn't get service in French when they checked in, at the boarding gate and aboard the flight, and that an announcement about a change of baggage carousel was made only in English.

The Ottawa couple each sought $25,000 in compensation.

"The applicants' language rights are clearly very important to them, " Madam Justice Marie-Josée Bédard said in her ruling."The violation of their rights caused them a moral prejudice, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of their vacation."

Under the Official Languages Act, Air Canada   s required to communicate and provide services in both official languages where there is significant demand in the minority language.

Air Canada conceded the Thibodeau's had four legitimate complaints, but argued they didn't suffer damages that should be compensated. The judge disagreed. 

"Awarding damages in this case will serve the purpose of emphasizing the importance of the rights at issue, and will have a deterrent effect, " Bédard wrote.

After considering the various factors at play, Bédard set the amount at $6,000 each - $1,500 for each of the four admitted breaches. But she rejected the Thibodeau's request to award $500,000 in exemplary and punitive damages, which they based on what they described as arrogance from Air Canada's side.

Call me soft, but I think if Air Canada admits fault it should be required to pay something. The ruling by Bedard sounds quite reasonable to me, however.

It's difficult for Air Canada in the sense that other Canadian carriers aren't bound by the same rules. But AC gets plenty of help from the government (like in the recent pension decision). So I don't feel particularly sorry for them. These were flights from Ottawa, folks. Surely they'd have someone at the airport and on board to speak French.

Given the decision, I can't quite see why the Supreme Court is taking up the issue. Surely it's not the sort of publicity Air Canada wants. Nor the Prime Minister, I suspect.

ONTARIO GOVERNMENT APPLAUDED BY TOURISM FOLKS

The Tourism Industry Association of Ontario today sent out a release applauding Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne's new provincial budget.

 "Yesterday’s budget showed us that the Ontario government is listening and supports the tourism industry in Ontario by maintaining their current level of investment in tourism, by increasing investment attraction activities, and by increasing the commitment and programing for job creation."

The Association said it had laid out three priority areas for the Province to consider in the 2013 budget:

- Maintain the current level of investment in tourism;
- Encourage the attraction of new investors to the tourism industry to build new product; and
- Maintain support of workforce development and skills training in tourism.

Tourism is a $23.6 billion a year industry in Ontario, the association said, noting opportunities for growth in places like China, India and Brazil.

"By working with partners across the country, Ontario can leverage its marketing dollars to draw new visitors and increase visitor spending. Attracting increased foreign and domestic tourism investment to Ontario benefits everyone: tourism operators, municipalities, residents and visitors alike. Investment in new and existing tourism experiences will attract more new visitors and encourage repeat visitors, enhancing Ontario’s reputation and strengthens the provincial economy."

It's interesting to see the note about China. I've said it before, but it seems everyone and his brother (and cousin) is madly chasing Chinese tourism dollars.

 A story I saw Thursday from Xinhua, the Chinese news agency, noted that Australia is trying to become "China Ready" as China is its fasted growing "and most cherished" market.

I've noted previously how hotels in Canada and the U.S. are adding more Mandarin speakers, plus adding Mandarin TV stations and other amenities. You'll find the same thing in top high-end shops on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, I'm told. Now, in Sydney, folks who want to climb the famous Harbour Bridge will find Mandarin guides awaiting them.

If I was a kid today, I'd be trying to learn Mandarin...

CALGARY AIRPORT GROWING

Here's an item that'll make Montrealers gasp. It seems Calgary's airport is poised to become Canada's third biggest by the end of the year, surpassing Montreal Trudeau International.

Calgary is behind right now and in fourth spot, but with a faster growth rate than Montreal it's expected to go past the 14 million mark by the end of the year and surge past Montreal.

NEW TRANSFORMERS THEME PARK

Universal Orlando says it's new, 3-D theme park ride, based on the Transformers toy brand, will open June 20 in Florida.

Officials describe the ride as an interactive, "larger than life battle" between the Autobots and the Decepticons. It uses flight simular technology, along with wind, heat and smoke to make the riders feel immersed in the experience, according to Associate Press.

JAUNT.CA DEAL OF THE DAY

Jaunt.ca, a division of Torstar, has a fabulous deal today for a round-trip ticket to Florida, priced from just $210, including taxes and fees.

Jaunt Highlights

• Exclusive Airfare from Toronto to Orlando or St. Petersburg aboard Sunwing Airlines
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  Your return airfare to the sunshine state includes:
  • Complimentary glass of champagne
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  • Non-alcoholic beverages and snacks
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  • Hot towel service

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Offer Details

• Valid for travel on either of the following dates:
  
  $210 tax included - Round-trip Toronto to Orlando
  Choose from the following Departure Dates: June 2, 9, 16, 2013
  Choose from the following Return Dates: Jun 9, 16, 23, 2013
  
  $315 tax included – Round-trip Toronto to St. Petersburg
  Choose from the following Departure Dates: May 10, 13, 17, 2013
  Return Date: May 24, 2013
  
  $315 tax included – Round-trip Toronto to Orlando
  Choose from the following Departure Dates: May 13, 17, 19, 24, 26, 2013
  Choose from the following Return Dates: May 27, June 2, 2013
  
  
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Pearson baggage woes ... Ottawa's tulip festival .. WestJet to Myrtle ... Deal/day

I flew into Toronto on Sunday from a trip out west, landing at Pearson around 4 p.m. Canadian Customs wasn’t remotely busy and there weren’t many people in the baggage claim area.

Yet it was crowded as can be as seemingly all the flights were disgorging bags onto the same carousel, number 10. There seemed to be a few other carousels in use at the far end, but in my immediate area there were probably seven or eight empty carousels. Yet mine was listing seven different flights for that carousel at one point.

After waiting 20 minutes (from the time the plane reached the gate) for the first bags to finally show, we were told they were switching over to Carousel 9; a good call given the crowding at number 10. Even then, however, it took another 15 minutes or so for the first bags to show up. And on a day when the airport wasn't busy.

I’m sorry but I just don’t understand how this works. As I’m wont to do, I put out a note on Twitter and got several responses from fellow frustrated Pearson users.

I got a response today from airport officials, explaining that they haven’t been able to get definitive answers from Air Canada about their staffing levels.

They went on to say they’re “looking at better ways to allocate the carousels, and we’re working with all airlines to make sure they are moving bags onto our system asap.”

Spokesman Scott Armstrong also told me that with the introduction of automated Customs kiosks in Terminal 3 (the first ones are coming to Terminal 1 soon; maybe the third week in May) and with more folks using the Nexus pass to speed through customs, folks are getting to the baggage hall a lot faster, “which exacerbates any delay of baggage delivery.”

At least officials admit they have work to do…

TULIPS AND MORE TULIPS

If you love spring flowers as much as I do, you definitely should check out the Canadian Tulip Festival, which starts Friday in Ottawa.

From May 3 through 20, 2013, the event features special programming and more than a million tulips of every colour on display in public areas downtown. Commissioners Park alone features 300,000 bulbs.

The tulip is Ottawa’s official flower, stemming from World War II, when the Dutch Royal Family took refuge in Ottawa and Princess Margriet—the younger sister of recently retired Queen Beatrix—was born during their stay. Canadian troops played a pivotal role in the liberation of the Netherlands, so when the war ended and the Royal Family returned to Europe, they sent a gift of 100,000 tulip bulbs to Ottawa. The gift of tulips continues to this day.

TORONTO TRAVEL NUMBERS

Toronto tourism is on the upswing. Officials with Tourism Toronto say American visits in 2011 rose 3 per cent, while last year they jumped 4.7 per cent.

When you consider the strength of the Canadian dollar and the expense of gas and airline tickets these days, those aren’t bad numbers. Mind you, cities around the world are claiming pretty significant tourism increases in general as the world economy stabilizes and business travel returns.

Still, 4.7 per cent is a decent number no matter how you slice it.

WEST JET TO MYRTLE BEACH

WestJet today begins seasonal service from Toronto to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The service runs every Thursday and Sunday from now until the end of October, making it easy to take a four-day break or a longer holiday in a market that’s always been hugely popular with Canadians.

The high season is really March and April, which WestJet has missed. But Tim Croyle, vice president and general manager of WestJet Vacations, said bookings are good.

“It’s a great long weekend spot as it’s only two hours away,” he said. “You can leave Toronto at 9:30 a.m. and be there in time to have lunch on the beach.”

Golf is obviously a big part of the draw, with some 250 courses in the area, Croyle said. I was there a couple years ago and found some tremendous courses at very reasonable prices. I especially loved Caledonia Fish and Golf Club; a fabulous layout that’s dripping with beautiful trees covered with Spanish moss and littered with flowering shrubs. There’s also a terrific clubhouse where you can sip a cool drink on a wide porch and watch golfers play over the water at the 18th hole.

Nearby Murrells Inlet is a great place to stroll and get a bite to eat, right on the water.

And I found the food to be outstanding all over town for the most part. And very reasonably priced.

Croyle said WestJet has air only options, or you can book a package and arrange a stay at a hotel, resort or condo.

They currently have four properties, all on the beach or right across from the beach, and more are on the way.

“It’s a great family destination and there’s lots of shopping, too,” Croyle said.

JAUNT.CA DEAL OF THE DAY

Jaunt.ca, a division of Torstar, has a deal on tap for a great, 15-day trip across South America. It's priced at $5,895, including $250 in taxes, and hits on the most iconic sights on the continent.

Jaunt Highlights

• 15-Day/13-Night South American Wonders Tour, including visits to Rio de Janeiro (see photo at right), Buenos Aires, Iguassu Falls, Machu Picchu and more!
• Includes all international and domestic airfare, plus airport/hotel transfers throughout the tour. See Offer Details for more info.
• Includes transportation via private air conditioned vehicles, accompaniment of a licensed English speaking tour guide in Peru, Brazil & Argentina, sightseeing & entrance fees as per the itinerary and more!
• Accommodations based on double occupancy. Refer to itinerary below for hotels (or similar).
• 21 meals including daily breakfast, 4 lunches & 3 dinners

• Embark on a scintillating journey to world famous sites like Machu Picchu and Iguassu Falls
• Have unique experiences like dinner & folklore in Lima and a tango show in Buenos Aires
• Enjoy the best possible views in Brazil with trips to the top of Sugarloaf and Corcovado Mountain

Offer Details

• Valid for travel on November 8, December 29, 2013 & February 3, 2014
• Pricing (Rates are per person, plus tax):
  
  November 8, 2013:
  Double: $5645
  
  December 29, 2013:
  Double: $6975
  
  February 3, 2014:
  Double: $5995
  
  Single Supplement: $1200
  Tax: $250
  
  We also offer Other TOURS to South America.
  Call us at 1-855-687-5925.
  
  
• Your Flights Include: Departure airfare from Toronto to Rio de Janeiro and return airfare from Lima to Toronto, domestic round-trip flight from Rio to Iguassu, Iguassu to Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires to Lima, Lima to Cusco and Cusco to Lima.
• Accommodations Include: Windsor Plaza in Rio de Janeiro (3 Nights), Viale Cataratas in Iguassu Falls (2 Nights), Amerian Park in Buenos Aires (3 nights), Eco Inn Cusco in Cusco (4 nights) & Jose Antonio in Lima (1 night)
• Optional Tours: option to add a full day tour to Petropolis and/or a Rio by night show during stay in Rio de Janeiro at an additional cost. 
• Visa, gratuities and optional tours/excursions are NOT included. Tourist visa for Brazil is required. For more information CLICK HERE
• Ferry tickets from Buenos Aires to Montevideo are required and NOT included. Additional cost of $150 per person to be paid locally.
• Valid passport required for travel from Canada
• This offer is 100% non-refundable at time of booking

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oregon: one vastly under-rated state ... Porter adds Boston/Chicago flights

Folks from all over Canada know California.

Many of us, especially those in British Columbia, are familiar with Washington state, B.C.'s neighbour to the south.

Oregon? Not as much. This is a state that gets sandwiched between two bigger west coastAmerican brothers and probably doesn't get the visitation it deserves. It's a bit far for a day trip from B.C. and it's a hundreds of miles north of San Francisco.

But if you don't check it out you're missing a huge treat; a wildly diverse state that has just about everything you could want in a relative compact package: endless, beautiful beaches; towering mountains; alpine lakes; gorgeous and trendy cities with fabulous food and pubs, a vast desert area with world-class golf and adventure and a deeply green valley that grows some of the best wines in the world; especially Pinot Noir.

Oregon officials pride themselves especially on their food and drink scenes and on adventure travel. Because they have the Willamette Valley, they can grow darn near anything in a climate that's cooler than California but warmer than B.C., for the most part.

They didn't invent farm-to-table cuisine, one official told me over coffee this week, they just live it. Portland has an amazing food scene, with tons of fresh seafood and Oregon beef and inventive, cosmopolitan dishes. It's also one of the leading brewpub cities of the world.

Portland likes to be different. There's a large (and popular) wall in town that says "Keep Portland Weird."

The traditional downtown (for tourists anyway) on the west side of the river has been a lively spot for years, but now the neighbourhoods on the east side are becoming just as hip, with new distilleries hawking homemade gin, vodka and whisky. I'm told you can take a $20 pedicab tour and check out several distilleries, all the while admiring traditional neighbourhoods and cool architecture.

It's only 45 minutes to the Columbia River Gorge from Portland, 30 minutes to the Willamette Valley and 90 to the Pacific Ocean. The state has 580 km of oceanfront property,and it's all open to the public. Some of it is rocky and looks like Big Sur in California, while other parts offer broad, sweeping beaches and cute fishing villages. You also can check out some of the best golf on the planet at Bandon Dunes, a true links course where they have several options, including a par-3 course. Some of the sand dunes nearby are open for folks to try sandboarding; like snowboarding but without the ice. And the cold. Mind you, with the Cascade Mountains you can try real skiing or snowboarding for large stretches of the year, too.

The area around Bend, in the centre of the state, is famous for its low humidity and beautiful river canyons. Lots of rafting and watersports and hiking and golf and biking in the area.

Further west and north is Pendleton, home of the famous Western shirts. This is cowboy country, with rolling hills and endless ranches and a real western feel.

Toss in some good university towns and natural spots such as Crater Lake National Park and you've got perhaps one of the most diverse states in the U.S.

And there's no sales tax, even on your food and drink purchases. So it's great for shopping.

The best way to get there for now is through Calgary or Vancouver but Oregon officials are hoping to someday soon land a direct flight from Portland to Toronto.

PORTER ADDS OPTIONS

Porter Airlines today announced added weekend flights from the Toronto Island Airport to both Boston and Chicago, effective immediately. They're also adding another weekday flight from the island (Billy Bishop Airport) to Chicago's Midway airport from June 24 to Aug. 30.

This has increased the number of weekly options to as many as 43 roundtrips, for both Boston and Chicago, including eight weekend roundtrips to both cities, officials said.

“Boston and Chicago have always been popular markets, but with the launch of Porter Escapes, our new packaged vacations platform, we are seeing even higher demand for leisure travel to these two cities,” said Robert Deluce, president and CEO of Porter Airlines. “The additional Saturday flights allow greater flexibility for weekend travel, providing convenient options for any schedule.” 

 

 

A $1.56 million trip of a lifetime ... New flights T.O. to Dublin ... Halifax golf

It’s a tad expensive as trips go. Roughly $1.56 million, to be precise. But it promises to be the vacation/expedition of a lifetime.

A company called VeryFirstTo.com is selling an Ultimate Journey package that includes the Taj Mahal, Petra in Jordan, Angkor Wat in Cambodia (see photo below), the Forbidden City in Beijing and Peru’s Machu Picchu. And a few other spots, such as, get this, every one of the world’s 962 World Heritage Sites.

Although various governments current advise against visiting some World Heritage Sites, including Pasargadae in Iran and Leptis Magna in Libya, the firm apparently will try to make everyone happy, according to the Daily Telegraph in London.

The trip includes overland travel and flights (in business class cabins or superior), while tours of the different sites will be guided (presumably by workers carrying peacock feathers and iced Grey Goose martinis). Accommodation will be at a range of luxury hotels, including Sandy Lane in Barbados (a lovely spot I got to stay in - briefly - a few years ago) the Hotel George V in Paris and The Plaza in New York (a Fairmont property, also a very fine hotel).

The trip – billed as the ‘world’s most expensive holiday’ – was launched last month by VeryFirstTo.com. Now the company’s founder, Marcel Knobil, says two wealthy travellers have expressed firm interest in becoming the first people to embark on what the Telegraph called “an epic odyssey.”

The first chap is said to be a Chinese fellow who can’t go until he’s finished his PhD tudies next year. An Italian industrialist also is on the verge of booking, according to Knobil.

Just in case you have cash to spare, VeryFirstTo.com also is willing to book you a trip into space for $108,000 and the chance to wake up surrounded by more than one million rose petals for a $110,000.

The latter seems kind of expensive to me. I think you probably could drive to Ottawa and lie down in front of Parliament Hill and wake up in mid-May with about a million tulip petals all around. And you’d only have to pay for your bail after the cops arrest you.

ON THE OTHER HAND

If you’re more in the market for value, Fox News recently put out a list of its top value hotels around the world.

Among them was the Coco Palm Resort in St. Lucia, which I’ve heard previously is a good deal, as well as Le Richelieu in the French Quarter of New Orleans, The Dean Street Townhouse in London, England and Hotel Le Germain Dominion in Quebec City.

Fox cited the Germain’s “historic, wood-and-stone façade” and bank vault doors that are played off against stylish, modern décor. Breakfast is included and there’s also free Internet (hurray) and a Nespresso coffee machine in each room.

I went online and found a room in early May for $222. Not cheap but not bad for what looks like a nice property.

IRELAND RISING

More than a million folks from Canada and the U.S. visited Ireland last year and spent more than $994 million, an increase of 9.3 per cent. This year marks a year-long event called The Gathering, a series of festivals and events celebrating “the unique nature of what it means to be Irish.” Which means numbers could increase even more. Air Canada this week announced it will start year-round service from Toronto to Dublin on its new, discount airline, Rouge, beginning May 1, 2014. Service this year is from May 17 to Sept. 30.

THIS AND THAT 

Toronto golf designer Tom McBroom has announced a new, championship course for Halifax. It’s called The Links at Brunello and is slated to open in June 2015. There hasn't been much in the way of new golf course construction in this country for a while, so it's a good sign. I hope … I guess we can put our pocketknives – and hockey sticks – back in cold storage. After suggesting they’d lift the ban on those and other items on airplanes, the folks at TSA in the U.S. now say they need to consult pilots, airline workers and other concerned parties (many of whom have expressed alarm at the proposal) before they can revoke the ban … Nice way to start a vacation? Not really. It seems a worker at Los Angeles International Airport the other day mistakenly hit a switch and, for eight minutes, caused flight status signs to flash the message “Emergency: Leave the Terminal.” …

Rudest spot in Britain: Butt Hole Road? New Travel + Escape mag ... Deal of day

I've been hanging onto this one for a while, not quite sure whether it fits a family newspaper like the Star. But I spotted a BBC post today on the rudest place names in Britain, so I figured I may as well let loose with my own findings on unusual/suggestive place names in Canada and the U.S.

First, the BBC report. The Brits, of course, have always had colourful names for everything from towns to food, such as Toad in the Hole. Much more inventive than North America, where we serve hot dogs and club sandwiches and chicken wings (although in Buffalo you can get Beef on Weck, which actually sounds like a farming community in England when you think about it).

Anyway, the BBC story is a hugely fun piece that talks about places like Cockermouth, Crotch Crescent, Fanny Hands Lane, Twatt (there are two of them, apparently), Hornyold Road, Back Passage and Cocks, not to mention Shitterton and Sandy Balls. The BBC also cites a place called Beaverclose, which is an easy one for Canada of course and, therefore, too easy a target.

There used to be a street in England called Butt Hole Road in Conisbrough but they changed it a while back to Archers Way, which is really, dreadfully dull. But it's easy to understand city fathers' desire to change things.

I had fun (hey, somebody has to do it) some time back checking out some Canadian examples. The most obvious and best-known is, of course, Dildo Newfoundland. There's also Come-by-Chance, Newfoundland and a few notable others.

But you might not know about a few places I stumbled across, including Climax, Saskatchewan, Crapaud, Prince Edward Island and Ta Ta Creek, British Columbia (not sure if it's a bodacious creek or just normal-sized). There must be some rude spots in Ontario, prudish as we may be, but I haven't been able to find them.

The U.S., however, is a gold mine: Butts, Georgia; Nutts, Arkansas, New Erection, Virginia; Hooker Hole, Louisiana; Fort Dick, California; Intercourse, Pennsylvania; Fanny, West Virginia; Easytown, Indiana; Assawoman Bay, Maryland; and Threeway, Mississippi among them.

Got more? Drop me a line at jbyers@thestar.ca.

PORTER POLL

Porter Airlines sent out a press release today saying that a new poll suggests two-thirds of Torontonians support Porter's plans for jets at the Toronto Island/Billy Bishop Airport, provided they're quiet enough.

This result is based on an unprecedented public opinion survey of 19,500 people, which is the largest-ever sample size for a publicly-released poll in Toronto, the airline said.

A summary of the results are as follows:

•         When asked, “Do you support allowing jets to fly out of the airport if they make a comparable amount of noise to the turboprops currently being flown from the Island Airport?”, 66.2 per cent supported these plans, 22.3 per cent were opposed and 11.5 per cent undecided or unsure.
•         When asked, “Do you support lengthening the runway if the area currently used by boats will not be changed?”, 62.5 per cent supported these plans, 22.3 per cent were opposed and 15.2 per cent undecided or unsure.
•         When asked, “Should Toronto City Council allow jets to fly out of the Toronto Island Airport?”, 51.3 per cent supported these plans, 28.7 per cent were opposed and 20.0 per cent undecided or unsure.

“These results show strong public support for the introduction of CS100 jet aircraft at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, and also the required runway extension to support the use of these aircraft,” said Robert Deluce, President and CEO of Porter Airlines.

Good numbers, for sure. But I still suspect Porter's plan will face a rough ride at Toronto City Council.

While I'm on the subject, don't you just love the phrase "whisper jet?" I mean, is that brilliant marketing or what?

TRAVEL AND ESCAPE MAGAZINE LAUNCHED

Travel + Escape, the TV folks, have launched a digital travel magazine. It's only available for iPad and iPhone at the moment but an Android version is on the way.

Travel+Escape’s inaugural adventure issue features five of the world’s most gripping travel destinations: Norway, Chile, California, British Columbia and the stratosphere, according to a press release.

Get a head-cam view and behind-the-scenes look at the world of wingsuit flying with Norway’s champion BASE jumper, Espen Fadnes. Learn about the state of space tourism and what to expect in years to come. Readers can discover luxurious retreats, chic boutique hotels, oddball accommodations (including an Arctic ship hotel) and swipe through stunning retina-quality image galleries. Watch full-screen videos, including a high definition time-lapse of a serene Yosemite National Park.

JAUNT.CA DEAL OF THE DAY 

Jaunt.ca, a division of Torstar, has a good deal on hand for a great trip to New York City, priced at $829 including air fare.

Jaunt Highlights

• BONUS: Includes 3 New York City Excursions per person. Excursions included are:
  
  • The New York City Highlights Cruise
  • The Sex and the City Hotspots Tour
  • The New York City Hop-on/Hop-off 24-hour Downtown Loop Bus Tour
• 3-night stay at the 5-Star Millennium Hilton, located in the Financial District of Manhattan, New York
• Includes return airfare from Toronto to Newark or from Montreal to LaGuardia
• Accommodations in a Double 1 King Bed Room. Maximum occupancy: 4

• Stay in the middle of the financial district surrounded by neighbourhoods like SoHo, Greenwich Village and Tribeca
• Included excursions take you to the filming locations of Sex and the City and other quintessential New York City sights
• Enjoy a cruise down the Hudson for a great photo op of the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge

Offer Details

• Valid for travel on June 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21. 27 & 28, 2013
• Pricing (Rates are per person):
  
  Toronto:
  Double: $699 + tax
  Single: $1065 + tax
  Triple: $731 + tax
  Child (2-17yrs): $335 + tax
  Tax: $130
  
  Montreal:
  Double: $944 tax included
  Single: $1314 tax included
  Triple: $970 tax included
  Child (2-17yrs): $570 tax included
  
  We also offer Other DATES and GATEWAYS.
  Call us at 1-855-687-5925.
  
  
• Why choose Air Canada Vacations?
  Earn & Redeem Aeroplan® Miles, in-flight seat-back entertainment on most flights, airline service and reliability of Air Canada, and more!
• Valid passport required for travel from Canada
• This offer is 100% non-refundable at time of booking

 

Canadians want more airline competition...Naked body scanners...Deal of Day

More flights. More airlines. More purchasing options.

A study conducted for the Consumers Association of Canada shows Canadians are strongly in favour of more access for international carriers.

The group’s polling found that 60 per cent of Canadians believe foreign airlines should be allowed to increase their service to Canada. Only 14 per cent of respondents were opposed.

Looked at another way, 61 per cent of Canadians said they think foreign airlines should be allowed to compete with Canadian airlines for their business, with only 20 per cent opposed.

Air Canada has been fighting to keep Emirates from adding more flights to Canada, saying it would hurt the Canadian economy and cost jobs in this country. The Harper government, so far, has been swayed by that argument. But there’s been a thaw in relations between Ottawa and the United Arab Emirates government, and it could be that efforts by Emirates to get more landing spots in Canada will soon be renewed.

The CAC poll had some other findings that weren’t too surprising. Asked if allowing more foreign airlines to fly to Canada would lead to more competition for their travel dollar, a full 77 per cent of folks agreed. Only six per cent disagreed. Asked if allowing more foreign airlines to come here would lead to lower travel costs, 69 per cent said yes and 12 per cent disagreed.

But those are silly questions. Of course more airlines means more competition. The question that matters is whether that competition is a good thing. Sure, it’s good for our travel budget. But it might not be good for the economy as a whole, which is what Air Canada argues with some justification. I’d like to see more competitition, but I am mindful of the effects it might have here at home. So is the Prime Minister.

The CAC said it will use the poll “to renew our call for Canada to adopt a dramatically different approach to international aviation.”

“Current policy has protected vested interests,” said CAC president Bruce Cran. “It is time to open Canada’s skies and welcome foreign carriers into this market to compete for the business of Canadian travelers.”

Good luck, sir. Good luck.

CANADA’S SENATE WEIGHS IN ON AIR TRAVEL

The Canadian senate has weighed in with a report on the future of the aviation industry in this country.

The Standing Committee on Transport and Communications issued a report called “One Size Doesn’t Fit All: The Future Growth and Competitiveness of Canadian Air Travel.” Putting aside the sexy title and all, I can’t for the life of me tell what the report is supposed to mean by reading the committee’s press release.

The top sentence in the release says this: “Canada needs a single, cohesive national air travel strategy, which must take into account the needs and challenges of all regions, particularly in the North, to chart a new course toward increased air travel in Canada.”

The release says the committee determined that “efforts to improve the competitiveness of regional and northern air transport should begin with transportation strategies that support air traffic growth, and infrastructure improvements that lead to accessible pricing for all Canadians.”

Later I discovered, it talks about how airport rents should be phased out to make airlines more competitive. This also was in the committee's interim report and is an interesting item.

The National Airlines Council of Canada sent out a release today saying it welcomes the Senate report "supporting its position that air travellers are being unduly penalized by excessive taxes and fees that are making air travel more costly for Canadians."

LESS INTRUSIVE SCANNERS AT CANADIAN AIRPORTS

It’s probably a good thing that the Harper government says it will bring in new software that will reduce the size of the images revealed by so-called naked scanners at the airport.

Officials in Ottawa said the new software will produce a computer-generated stick figure, and not so much a realistic body image, while still protecting Canadians with proper security.

I guess it’s good. But I never bought into the whole civil liberties argument about body scanners and all those crazy folks screaming about invasion of privacy.

I mean, do folks honestly think that airport security workers who can access any pornography they want at home will get their jollies by looking at wavy, grainy images on a computer screen in a back room at Pearson Airport? I don’t think so.

BLUE MOUNTAIN CHANGES

Skyline International Development Inc. today announced the closing of a $20 million investment and acquisition in Blue Mountain.  Skyline has purchased both retail and undeveloped residential land interests in and adjacent to the renowned Blue Mountain Village at the base of Blue Mountain Resort.

"Under the retail portion of the agreement, Skyline has acquired 50 per cent of existing commercial retail space within the Blue Mountain Village from current owner Intrawest ULC. In addition, Skyline will manage the remaining 50 percent of the Village's retail space. Skyline has also acquired the land to build an additional 20,000 sq. ft. of retail space to expand the Village retail. Skyline's retail interest under agreement at Blue Mountain is currently generating $1.5 million of net operating income.

In the residential portion of the acquisition, Skyline has acquired 136 acres of remaining developable land in and adjacent to the Village, with plans to double the Village's current residential footprint. Skyline intends to develop 1,200 residential units, townhouses and single-family homes along the golf course and in the Village centre in the years ahead.

 

“We are very excited to be part owners of one of North America’s premier destinations. The Blue Mountain Village acquisition is an important milestone for Skyline’s growth. As of today, we can offer visitors and home buyers a unique set of four-season activity-focused destination communities, extending from downtown Toronto and reaching across southern Ontario,” says Gil Blutrich, Skyline Chairman. “We look forward to bringing the knowledge and expertise of our team to the table to make Blue Mountain this country’s top vacation destination, while offering more home buyers the chance to live in the heart of this thriving resort community and be connected to the rest of our portfolio.”

 

CARNIVAL IMPROVEMENTS

Good to see that Carnival Corp., the cruise operator that has suffered so many black eyes this year, will spend around $700 million or more on fire protection and backup systems across its 101-ship fleet.

According to Bloomberg News, Carnival will install added emergency generators and reinforce shipboard systems to prevent losses of power like the one that occurred on the Carnival Triump in February.

“Safety is our highest priority,” said Carnival vice chair and COO Howard Frank.

If it wasn’t before, it damn well should be now.

Nice moves, but the cruise company had little choice but to make a splash (pardon the pun) given the problems they’ve had.

JAUNT.CA DEAL OF THE DAY

Jaunt.ca, a division of Torstar, has a deal on tap for Cancun that includes a $1,500 resort credit and ticket to see the wonderful Beach Boys. It's priced at $1,727, including $348 in taxes.

• BONUS: Enjoy $1500 USD Resort Credit and 2 FREE Adult Beach Boys Concert Tickets per room!
• All-inclusive 7-night stay at the 4.5-Star Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort, located in Cancun, Mexico
• Includes return airfare from Toronto to Cancun, and round-trip airport/resort transfers in Mexico
• Accommodations in a Superior Garden View Room featuring 1 king or 2 double beds. Maximum Occupancy: 4 adults
• Daily breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks

Why We Love It:

• Enjoy the laidback beach beats of The Beach Boys in concert
• Pamper yourself with the world class spa services and golf course
• Entertain the whole family with Kids Clubs and numerous dining options

Offer Details

• Valid for travel on August 3, 2013
• Pricing (Rates are per person, plus tax):
  
  Toronto:
  Double: $1379
  Single: $2069
  Triple: $1319
  Quad: $1259
  Tax: $347.56
  
  Other DATES and GATEWAYS available.
  Call us at 1-855-687-5925.
• Use your $1500 resort credit for a range of perks including spa treatments, select excursions, golf and more! For a full breakdown of how to use your credit CLICK HERE
• Valid passport required for travel from Canada
• This offer is 100% non refundable at time of booking

 

 

 

Honours for Canada hotels and YVR, WestJet teams w/ Iceland Air, Deal of Day

A couple of Toronto's newest hotels have made a mark. 

Conde Nast Traveler the other day issued its hot list of the top new hotels in the world. The new Four Seasons in Yorkville and the new Shangri-La on University Avenue both made the grade, as did the Ritz Carlton in Montreal and La Ferme in Baie-St. Paul, the new hotel built at the Le Massif ski hill by Daniel Gauthier of Cirque du Soleil fame.

The magazine described the look of the Four Seasons (see photo below right) as "uber-polished and somewhat austere, with huge, dark wood columns and 1,700 commissioned pieces of art." They said the "taupe and beige colour scheme and stone floors lend a somewhat chilly atmosphere to public spaces" but that "rooms are softer, with flowered fabric headboards and sweet little framed prints of Canadian wildlife."

They also said the new Four Seasons is a "clear departure from the old-fashioned, out-of-date original," that the sleek Daniel Boulud restaurant is "a magnet for Toronto's upwardly mobile" and that the 30,000 square foot spa is the largest urban spa in the Four Seasons chain.

I gotta admit I find the lobby area a bit cramped and not overly welcoming, but I'm a big fan of old-fashioned hotels with welcoming chairs and don't really like the artsy, austere look.

I personally much prefer the lobby space at the Shangri-La, with its Asian touches and sofas and open spaces. It seems like the Conde Nast folks agree. They call the look "urban zen" and commented on the subtle Asian elements, such as the Japanese watercolours and orchids that dot the property. They said the hotel "feels illuminated and airy thanks to a soaring lobby space with plenty of blonde wood and travertine stone (and the occasional pop of magenta from a silk pillow or rug).

"Guest rooms are painted in soft cream, and the floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the Toronto skyline create a cheery atmosphere, even on overcast winter days. Enormous bathrooms are swathed in veined marble and include the now almost ubiquitous TV in the mirror."

Although it may attract biz types, the magazine noted the Shangri-La "has all the necessities for a city vacation, including indoor cabanas surrounding a whirlpool, a gorgeous hammam spa and the excellent lobby-level restaurant, Bosk."

Heady praise, indeed.

In addition to citing both hotels, Conde Nast also named their respective spas as blissful hot spots for 2013.

Heading to Quebec? Conde Nast called La Ferme's look "eclectic and whimsical," with rooms that vary wildly in style. They seemed to like the French comfort food at the restaurant, Les Labours, but cited the lack of a good spa. They had lots of great things to say about the Ritz Carlton in Montreal, citing it's "turn-of-the-century grandeur" and the "Gilded Age fantasy" of the Palm Court, combined with modern, sleek rooms. They said the pool and gym feel cramped, but overall gave the place a very solid review.

WORLD'S BEST AIRPORTS

The folks at Skytrax, who do regular airline reviews, have issued a new list of the top airports on the planet. Vancouver's YVR was, understandably, named the best airport in North America, finishing eighth overall. YVR was the only North American airport in the top ten.

It marks the fourth straight year Vancouver was named tops in North America, based on a survey of 395 airports that looked at everything from comfort to efficiency to signage and amenities. The Vancouver airport has a bright, lively feel to it, with great shops and a large fish tank and even a liquor store on the way out. It beats the living daylights out of Toronto Pearson. which came 46th to finish second in Canada. Also in the top 100 from a Canadian angle were Halifax/Stanfield at 58 and Montreal/Trudeau, which came 83rd.

I said Vancouver was the only North American airport in the top ten. Actually, it was the only North American airport in the top 29. The next best facility in North America after YVR was Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky at number 30. Other American facilities in the top 50 were Denver (36), San Francisco (40) and Atlanta/Hartsfield (48).

Changi Airport in Singapore came first overall in the world, a common occurrence for the renowned facility with shops and spas and all kinds of attractions. Next was South Korea’s Incheon International Airport, followed by Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, Hong Kong International and Beijing Capital International Airport.

WESTJET TEAMS WITH ICELAND AIR

WestJet continues to sign deals with world airlines to make things easier for Canadians heading out of the country. It was announced today that WestJet and Icelandair "have launched a new interline agreement opening up the skies for passengers connecting between the Americas and more than 20 Icelandair destinations throughout Europe." 

"Passengers can now book a single combined e-ticket for WestJet and Icelandair flights which includes the conveniences of single check-in for all flights and baggage sent through to the final destination. When connecting in the Americas, Icelandair customers will enjoy WestJet’s fleet of Boeing 737 Next-Generation aircraft serving more than 80 cities in North America, Central America and the Caribbean."

"Icelandair and WestJet share many of the same philosophies including offering our passengers a refreshing travel experience” said Helgi Mar Bjorgvinsson, Icelandair's Senior Vice President of Marketing and Sales. "Our complementary customer service and connections through Toronto and Halifax make this a natural partnership. We also look forward to further opening the skies of Canada for both inbound and outbound passengers."

Earlier this year Icelandair expanded its seasonal service from Toronto to a year-round operation with plans to increase capacity next summer. Icelandair will also resume seasonal service from Halifax with two flights a week starting June 1, 2013. 

“We’re excited to welcome Icelandair as WestJet’s thirty-second partner airline,” said Todd Peterson, WestJet’s Director, Alliances. “Icelandair and WestJet share a reputation for quality service and great value. The new relationship between our airlines will enhance options for travel between North America and Europe.”

AIR TRANSAT IMPROVEMENTS

Missed this last week when I was away, but the Star's Vanessa Lu reported the other day that Air Transat  is rolling out Italian leather slimline seats on its newly revamped Airbus 330 planes, which are often used on transatlantic routes.

Joseph Adamo, Transat's vice-president of marketing (see photo), said while the pitch - the distance from any point on one seat to the exact same point on the seat in front of or behind it - doesn't change, it will feel roomier.

"We can't say it's more space, but it's a better experience," Adamo said as Transat  held a media event in Toronto to show off a mockup of its revamped cabin. "The seat is thinner with new generation foam."

The airline also is replacing its outdated entertainment system with individual seatback touch screens that feature movies, books and games like Sudoku.

It's adding LED lighting inside the cabin that switches colours, depending on the situation, including orange for when a plane is arriving in Europe to mimic a sunrise, and supposedly reduce jet lag.

JAUNT.CA DEAL OF THE DAY

Jaunt.ca, a division of Torstar, has a deal on tap for the sunny Dominican Republic for $836, including $387 in taxes.

• SAVINGS: Two travellers save up to $100 by booking with Jaunt.ca!
• BONUS: ACV Privileges offer exclusive check-in/check-out, 10% spa discount, turndown service and in-room beach towels
• All-inclusive 7-night stay at the Barcelo Puerto Plata, located in the Dominican Republic
• Includes return air from Toronto to Puerto Plata, with hotel/airport transfers in the Dominican Republic
• Accommodations in a Double Room, featuring 1 king or 2 twin beds and a balcony or terrace. Maximum occupancy: 3 adults + 1 child
• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, and unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks

• Beachfront property gives you direct access to the Caribbean sea
• The resort offers unique activities like dance lessons and horseback riding
• Barcelo is located directly on the beach at Playa Dorada, five minutes from downtown

Offer Details

• Valid for travel on May 8, 15 & 22, 2013
• Pricing (Rates are per person, plus tax):
  
  Toronto:
  Double: $449
• Single: $500
  Triple: $423
  Child: $399
  Tax: $387
  
  Other DATES and GATEWAYS available.
  Call us at 1-855-687-5925.
  
  
• Why choose Air Canada Vacations?
  Earn & Redeem Aeroplan® Miles, in-flight seat-back entertainment on most flights, airline service and reliability of Air Canada, and more!
• Valid passport required for travel from Canada
• This offer is 100% non-refundable at time of booking