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cruising

An update on the power of cruising worldwide, news from Holland America. Scenic, Avalon and AmaWaterways, plus updates on Air Canada bag fees, cancelled vacation programs for Cuba and a California World Cup guide. All in today’s blog post. CRUISE NEWS AND VIEWS THE POWER OF CRUISING In a new report, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) highlights the positive impact that cruise tourism delivers for communities and destinations around the world. “Cruising for Impact” demonstrates how cruise tourism acts as a powerful driver of opportunity, supporting local livelihoods, strengthening communities, and creating long-term value in coastal and port Read more

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What with the continuing US-Canada trade war and political troubles around the world, this year is definitely looking like another strong one for domestic tourism in Canada. With that in mind, I’m starting a new feature; brief looks at the best Canadian cities for visitors (Canadian or otherwise) to explore this year. First up: Montreal!  Quebec City has more charm, but for overall things to do – as well as a lovely old city that will remind most visitors of a trip France – it’s tough to beat Montreal. Not only is there the French factor, but you’ll also find Read more

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I think Michelin does a fine job with its restaurant ratings, but I’m not sure about a list they recently published of 16 top foodie destinations for 2026. I can only assume these are destinations they like, or wished to highlight, versus the best destinations in the world. If you look at it that way, the list is pretty useful; shedding light on cities and regions that normally wouldn’t get a lot of coverage on food and restaurant lists. Here’s their list of 16 spots for 2026: Venice  Czechia Dolomites (Italy) Wroclaw, Poland Amalfi Coast, Italy (spectacular scenery, fresh seafood Read more

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My travel report for today looks at travel trends for Canadians, as well as what looks like an inevitable, major expansion of the Toronto Island Airport. I’m also debuting a new “Cruise News and Views” section on my blog to help people keep track of the booming cruise industry. And I’ve got a report on Hilton hotels use of artificial intelligence to help travelers make decisions, as well as an update on European travel. CANADIANS CAUTIOUS ABOUT TRAVEL: DOMESTIC TRIPS STILL A PRIORITY According to the Canadian Automobile Association’s Travel Wise survey, more than half of Canadians (51%) now say geopolitical and Read more

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When to book your flights, the increasing power of sports tourism, the debut of the new MSC World America cruise ship, and great hotels in Toronto. Without further adieu, I bring you today’s Jim Byers Travel blog post. TRAVEL TIPS AND TRICKS FROM KAYAK   Flight delays and cancellations can really kill the vacation vibe before your trip gets started. KAYAK, the world’s leading travel search engine, is urging Canadians to brace themselves for a possible increase in delays.   KAYAK’s travel experts are helping Canadians save their summer with these tips and tricks for avoiding delays and cancellations, even before Read more

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