Great deals for Canadians heading to New York City, new online passport renewals for Canadians, new basic premium economy and basic business class seats for Air Canada, and new flights to beautiful Madeira. All in today’s post.
NEW YORK CITY WANTS YOU!
In a push to bring Canadian travellers back to the Big Apple, New York City Tourism is launching a new two-week program offering 30% discounts on hotels, restaurants, and tourism attractions across the city.
NYC’s Northern Neighbour Deal, which runs from Aug. 18 to Sept. 7, promises discounts on more than 40 hotels, including the fabulous Ace Hotel.
Nine Broadway shows are also taking part in the program, including Chicago, The Book of Mormon, and Aladdin.
The views of New York City from the Empire State Building never get old. Jim Byers Photo
Porter Airlines is sweetening the deal by offering 20% off New York flights from Canadian cities from August until mid-December.
New York City is, of course, one of the world’s great cities. Many visitors never leave Manhattan, but you’ll find amazing things to see and do in Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx and Staten Island.
There are also are tons of free activities, including a walk in Central Park, a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Staten Island Ferry, which offers fine views of the Statue of Liberty.
CANADIAN PASSPORT RENEWALS NOW ONLINE
The Canadian government has announced that online passport renewal is now available to all eligible adult Canadians in Canada. The new rule removes the limit on how many people can renew their passports online.
“Online passport renewal makes it easier for Canadians to access the services they need, when and where it’s most convenient for them,” officials said. “Canadians can complete their passport renewal application online by submitting their application, photo and payment digitally–instead of mailing documents or visiting a Service Canada Centre.
“Online passport renewal also benefits those who face barriers to in-person service, including people living in rural or remote communities and those with mobility challenges. In-person and mail-in services will continue to be available for Canadians who choose or need them.”
AIR CANADA INTRODUCES PREMIUM ECONOMY BASIC AND BIZ CLASS BASIC
Following a number of U.S. carriers, Air Canada has introduced Premium Economy Basic and Business Class Basic fares.
Air Canada Boeing 787-10 Premium Economy Class
Both Basic fare types are non‑refundable, changeable for a fee, and come with chargeable advance seating. Travellers still get a complimentary checked bag, carry‑on, priority boarding, priority baggage, and onboard meals. Lounge access is where the split happens: Premium Economy Basic has none, while Business Class Basic includes Maple Leaf Lounge, but not Signature Suite access.
Elite Aeroplan members, Star Alliance status holders, and Aeroplan premium cardholders will continue to receive their usual seating, baggage, and lounge perks regardless of fare.
Air Canada says the move keeps its premium offering aligned with partners and industry trends as demand for upscale leisure travel continues to climb.
UNITED AIRLINES TO MADEIRA
Madeira, Portugal. Piotr Musiol/Unsplash Photo
United Airlines has relaunched the nonstop U.S. route to the Madeira island, connecting Newark and Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport. Flights operate three days a week from May 16 to September 23.
This route puts Madeira within direct reach of the U.S. East Coast, complementing existing direct European service from Lisbon, Porto, London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Brussels, and Nice, and giving American wine lovers unprecedented access to the island right at the peak of harvest season.
Madeira is also easily accessible year-round via TAP Air Portugal’s extensive U.S. network, with convenient onward connections through Lisbon and Porto.
