Major cruise line unveils first hybrid rollercoaster at sea

October 30, 2023 No Comments

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Prima class has evolved with the ship’s all-new Norwegian Aqua, the first of the expanded Prima Plus Class setting sail in April 2025.

Travellers can now book Norwegian Aqua’s first voyages to the Caribbean with seven-day itineraries departing from one of the world’s most sought-after cruise ports, Port Canaveral, Fla.  Voyages include calls to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas.

The legacy continues with renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri constructing this next-generation Prima Plus Class. Building upon the award-winning experiences of Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Aqua will set new standards and deliver brand-new guest experiences to be discovered with an overall 10 percent size and capacity increase from its sister ships.

About Norwegian Aqua

Spanning 1,056 feet long, 156,300 gross tons and accommodating 3,571 guests at double occupancy, Norwegian Aqua will offer more outdoor space and the highest staffing levels of any new contemporary cruise ship. 

Norwegian Aqua will showcase a lively and colorful hull art design by NCL’s first-ever major female hull artist, Allison Hueman. World-renowned for her street art and global brand collaborations, including Nike, L’Oreal and Google, Hueman’s distinctive art style is a blend of ethereal realism. Norwegian Aqua’s design, entitled “Where the Sky Meets the Sea,” is curated by Goldman Global Arts and evokes modern mythology through colourful mashups of abstract and figurative representations of sea and sky, ruled by ancient goddesses.

Thrilling entertainment

Norwegian Aqua will premiere the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide, the Aqua Slidecoaster. Complete with exhilarating dual slides and a magnetic lift that propels adventurous guests through two different courses, this NCL exclusive experience will feature three stories of exciting twists and turns around the ship’s funnel.

The new Glow Court, a digital sports complex with an interactive LED floor, will offer a variety of interactive guest activities by day and then transform into a nightclub in the evening. Guests will also be able to continue to enjoy some of their favorite Prima Class experiences aboard Norwegian Aqua, including The Drop, NCL’s 10-story free-fall slide, and the Stadium, a now expanded game space offering complimentary activities.

Spacious suites

Boasting NCL’s first-ever Three-Bedroom Duplex Haven Suites, Norwegian Aqua will offer all-new luxurious accommodations in the Brand’s premium keycard-access-only-complex, The Haven by Norwegian. These four two-story spacious suites feature separate living and dining areas; three bathrooms; a sprawling balcony; and three bedrooms, of which two include a king size bed, with the master offering floor-to-ceiling windows for breathtaking ocean views.

The Haven aboard Norwegian Aqua will offer the largest Haven complex in the fleet with 123 well-appointed suites, including access to an expansive, dedicated sundeck; a serene infinity pool overlooking the ship’s stern; an outdoor spa complete with a glass-walled sauna and cold room; two hot tubs; a private lounge; exclusive bar pouring rare spirits and vintages; and sweeping sea views available from every public space. Haven guests will continue to enjoy 24-hour butler service and a dedicated concierge team. 

Norwegian Aqua will offer a variety of the most spacious accommodations in the fleet including inside, ocean view and balcony category staterooms, while solo travellers will continue to enjoy NCL’s signature Studio staterooms, which are priced and designed with the solo traveler in mind and include private keycard access to a dedicated Studio Lounge.

The ship will also feature the Company’s latest solo stateroom expanded categories, solo inside, solo oceanview and solo balcony, offering more space and variety of accommodations to single cruisers at reduced fares that are less than the cost of paying double occupancy.  

For more information on NCL and the new Norwegian Aqua, visit visit www.ncl.com. 

Aruba offering free tattoos by locals for a “permanent souvenir”

October 27, 2023 No Comments

The Aruba Tourism Authority recently announced the introduction of the “Tattoovenir,” the first-ever souvenir that truly stays with you.

The island is offering visitors the chance to get a free Aruba-themed tattoo from a local artist, as a permanent reminder of your time spent in Aruba.

“When our visitors leave, they take some of the island’s abundant happiness with them,” said Ronella Croes, CEO of the Aruba Tourism Authority. “What better way to celebrate this lasting feeling than to give away permanent souvenirs from our talented local tattoo artists. Because Aruba stays with you, long after you leave.”

How to get your tattoo

Starting today, eligible visitors can register for the opportunity to receive a free Aruba-themed tattoo during their trip from one of the five participating local Aruban tattoo shops by visiting aruba.com/tattoovenirs and claiming a Tattoovenir voucher while supplies last.

Pending verification of their eligibility, participants can redeem their Tattoovenir at the participating shop of their choice between Jan. 1, 2024 through June 30, 2024.

Participating Tattoo Shops Include:

  • Black Sheep Body Arts
    Located ideally in the heart of Oranjestad, Black Sheep Body Arts features a team of award winning tattoo artists that specialize in custom, fine line, bright color, and black and grey realism tattoos
  • Cadushi Ink Tattoos
    A trend setter in the Aruban tattoo industry, the eclectic Cadushi Ink Tattoo shop has years of experience perfecting a variety of styles from minimalistic to to neotraditional, geometric, realistic, and freestyle.
  • Inkspiration Tattoo Studio
    Operating just off the shoreline in Palm Beach, Inksiration tattoo is home to a team of versatile artists with experience working with fineline, black & grey, color and custom tattoos.
  • Aruba Tattoo/Aruba Tattoo and Piercing
    Just minutes from Eagle Beach, Aruba Tattoo and Piercing features a dedicated team of artists that are constantly studying new techniques to evolve their work and perfect their craft, with a specialty in realism composition tattoos in black and grey.
  • Art 4 Life Tattoo
    At Art 4 Life Tattoo, conveniently situated amongst the high rise hotels of Plam Beach, visitors will find a staff of skilled tattoo artists who pride thesleves on crafting one-of-a-kind personalized tattoos and creating unforgettable experiences.

The Aruba Tourism Authority encourages visitors to show how Aruba has stayed with them by sharing their Aruba-inspired ink on social media and using the hashtag #Tattoovenir.

Here’s how you can rent a private villa from Four Seasons

October 25, 2023 No Comments

 Four Seasons is expanding its Private Retreats collection of luxury villa and residence rentals with highly anticipated openings in Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol, Caye Chapel in Belize, Tropicalia in the Dominican Republic, New Cairo Capital at Madinaty, and Cartagena, Colombia.

Offering tailored stays in world-class homes expertly crafted by renowned architects and designers, Four Seasons Private Retreats offer the very best of living, hosting, and vacationing for every lifestyle.

Feel at home

Four Seasons Private Retreats offer ultimate privacy with access to world-class hotel amenities and facilities and personalized around-the-clock service. From pre-arrival to departure, guests are guaranteed a seamless journey across all touchpoints, from the customized booking process to access to the Four Seasons mobile app and chat service, Kids For All Seasons programming designed for families with children, and a carefully curated stay itinerary by a dedicated concierge team.

Wherever the destination, thoughtfully designed spaces boast quality facilities designed for comfort, entertainment, and peace of mind, ranging from private pools with spectacular views and modern fully equipped kitchens to expansive living rooms and dining areas.

Four Seasons Private Retreats cater to individual needs in any season – whether it’s to rest and recharge, explore food and beverage and wellness offerings, or simply chase the sun.

Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica
 

Coming soon

A highly anticipated opening, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol, is a luxury villa experience set within a vibrant riviera-style village in Mexico, featuring two to five-Bedroom ocean view villas and residences.

Other Four Seasons Private Retreats luxury villa and residence rentals set to debut in exciting new destinations include:

  • Four Seasons Resort and Residences Caye Chapel, Belize
  • Four Seasons Resort and Residences Dominican Republic at Tropicalia
  • Four Seasons Hotel and Residences New Cairo Capital at Madinaty
  • Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Cartagena

For more information, visit four seasons.com

This luxury cruise line’s menu just got a Puerto Rican revamp

October 23, 2023 No Comments

Fresh, local flavors lead the way for Holland America Line‘s cuisine on Caribbean sailings with new regionally themed menus in the Dining Room and Lido Market.

Adding to the culinary journey, Caribbean-bound guests can now enjoy a new themed brunch, indulge in local rum tastings, and savor a traditional, pirate-inspired rum punch crafted by renowned mixologist David Wondrich, who also will share his expertise on a March cruise aboard Zaandam.

Offered on sea days, all dishes on the new Caribbean Brunch menu in the Dining Room showcase fresh, local ingredients.

Local flavors on display 

The Dining Room features a range of new dishes showcasing island staples and favorites on all Caribbean cruises, including:

  • Chilly Caribbean shrimp cocktail with orange habanero aioli
  • Jerk pork tenderloin with peanuts, rice pilaf and black beans
  • Mahi mahi diablo with cilantro rice and guajillo chilies
  • Spiced pork belly with pineapple, salsa, roasted squash and sweet potatoes
  • Corn and salt fish fritter with garlic aioli
  • Chicken and callaloo soup with butternut squash, garlic, thyme and toasted coconut
  • Steamed stone crabs served chilled with a Dijon aioli dipping sauce (supplemental charge).

Taste the Caribbean islands in Lido Market

During Caribbean sailings, the casual Lido Market features regional favorites like Puerto Rican tostones. Made fresh daily with plantain chips, Puerto Rican tostones are served open-faced for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Topping selections range from tropical fruit for breakfast to pulled pork, garlic shrimp or vegetarian for dinner.

The Lido Market’s popular crepe bar features regional fruits and toppings with a buttered rum sauce. Lido dinner options include Caribbean lamb curry, Caribbean roasted pork sandwich, jerk lamb shank, braised brisket criollo, frita cubana, Jamaican garlic shrimp, Jamaican braised oxtail, rockfish cou-cou, and a selection of regional island hot sauces.

For more information, visit hollandamerica.com.

Canadian airline launches non-stop flight to Dubai

October 20, 2023 No Comments

Air Canada’s inaugural flight departed from Vancouver on Oct. 28 and has arrived in Dubai, linking Western Canada with the Middle East.

In Dubai in cooperation with Air Canada’s codeshare and frequent flyer partner Emirates, a multitude of destinations across the Middle East, Indian subcontinent and East Africa are available.

With convenient departures from DubaiInternational (DXB), Air Canada’s new flights provide a seamless link between the Canadian West Coast and Dubai. This expansion complements Air Canada’s existing daily service between Dubai and Toronto.

The Vancouver and Dubai flights are operated with Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft featuring three cabins of service for customers to choose from, including Signature Class with lie-flat seats, Premium Economy and Economy Class.

Five new hotels to explore in the Cayman Islands

October 18, 2023 No Comments

Now that the Cayman Islands has been reopened for tourism for a year, the destination is seeing strong recovery numbers, and with that comes a suite of new hotel openings.

Here are five hotels we’re excited about for 2024/2025.

VIDA Ocean Adventure Lodge

The first upcoming opening is VIDA Ocean Adventure Lodge, “quite a unique lower-density footprint property” set to debut in Q4 of this year. The property will feature 18 bungalows in West Bay and will be geared towards wellness and adventure travellers.

Hotel Grand Indigo Cayman

Next up is a larger development next to the Kimpton on Seven Mile Beach, Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman, set to debut in Q2 of 2024. The 282-room property will offer competitive rates.

OneGT

Set to open in Q1 of 2025 is OneGT, which will be located in downtown Georgetown, the capital city. The business hotel is set to feature 177 rooms. With its grand café, signature terrace restaurant, full range of resort amenities and Cayman’s first luxury SKY Club, ONE | GT is a destination for guests, residents, owners and the entire community to enjoy. 

Kailani

Kailani, a Curio Collection by Hilton Hotel, “a wellness hotel,” that will open with 80 rooms across one, two and three-bedroom configurations is also set for 2025. From a studio to a spacious suite with a kitchenette, all making the most of the interior space by creating functional and flexible rooms that can easily be enjoyed day or night. There’s also a rooftop spa and a private farm providing an abundance of organic produce for a true farm to table experience at their restaurant.

Grand Hyatt Grand Cayman Hotel & Residences

Finally, the Grand Hyatt Grand Cayman Hotel & Residences, slated for a 2026 opening, will feature 190 hotel rooms and 167 condo residences. There are six distinct dining venues on site, as well as three pools and a massive fitness centre and spa area.

In terms of lift, currently there are 727,290 seats into the destination across 4,184 flights.

10 reasons to explore Germany in 2024

October 16, 2023 No Comments

As the host of UEFA EURO 2024, next summer will be an exciting time to visit Germany.

Ten cities are set to host 51 matches kicking off in Munich on June 14 and ending in Berlin on July 14.

Along with taking in the soccer action and the stadium energy, here’s a look at what visitors can experience during a visit to Germany in 2024.

Fabulous Frankfurt beyond the airport

Jasmin Bischoff, Marketing Director for Frankfurt Tourism Marketing, wants Canadians to know that there’s so much more to the city than its airport. However, anyone with at least a five hour layover should take advantage of its quick connection to downtown.

Bischoff recommends visiting the new old town, an area that was destroyed during the Second World War, and restored and recreated to its former glory from 2010-2018. Frankfurt is one of the host cities for the Euro’s. When in town, she also recommends diving into its traditional cuisine ranging from apple wine to a green sauce dish made from seven herbs and sour cream, served with potatoes and boiled eggs.

Buzzing Berlin celebrates milestone

Germany’s capital city, where history, art, and innovation seamlessly collide, is marking the 35th anniversary of the fall of Berlin Wall in 2024. More than 60 Christmas markets to visit, Inka Rehahn, Director of Strategic Marketing for Visit Berlin, says the holiday season is also a magical time to visit. Berlin will host the final match of the UEFA EURO 2024.

Bathing in Baden-Baden

During a previous visit to this charming spa town, Bill Clinton remarked, “Baden-Baden is so nice you have to name it twice.” With a location on the doorstep to France and Switzerland, Cornelia Stahr, Head of Global Marketing, said the destination can easily be combined with other countries.

A key reason to visit will be to soak up the town’s healing waters at the historic Friedrichsbad (textile-free) or the newer Caracalla bath down the road where swimsuits are worn.

Explore charming Franconia

For postcard-worthy pictures of Germany, look no further than the Franconia region. Jörg Hentschel from the Franconian Tourist Board noted that 2024 will mark the 750th anniversary of the picturesque medieval town Rothenburg ob der Tauber and the 70th anniversary of the Castle Road, which like the name indicates is a trail of palaces. There are also 5 UNESCO Heritage Sites, christmas markets, and loads of breweries and vineyards to discover along the way.

Discover the historic highlights of Germany

Historic Highlights of Germany, which represents 17 destinations in Germany that are all at least 700 years old, from the likes of Potsdam to Trier, is also home to Germany’s latest UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 52nd site is in Erfurt, the capital of Thuringia, which boasts a Jewish-medieval heritage with three important monuments – the Old Synagogue, the Mikveh, and the Stone House.

Get to know the real Stuttgart

While Stuttgart is well known for automotive innovation as the home of the Porsche and Mercedes-Benz museums, the region’s International Marketing & Sales Manager Svenja Heinzelmann shares that her city is also surrounded by vineyards and forests.

But for a truly memorable stay, car fans can check out theV8 Hotel Stuttgart, which features car themed rooms. Of course, visitors will also have to try Maultaschen, a kind of large meat-filled dumpling in Swabian cuisine.

Dive into Düsseldorf’s culinary scene

For beer fans, Christian Schüller, manager market development for Düsseldorf Tourism, says travellers will have to visit its old town to try its special top fermented craft beer. The city, known for offering a blend of contemporary architecture, arts, and culture, is one of the host cities for the EURO’s.

With a fair number of Japanese immigrants, Schüller shared that the modern metropolis on the Rhine has an unexpected Japanese food scene.

Go behind the scenes in beautiful Bavaria

Another area in Germany rich with rich history, nature, culture and traditions is Bavaria. Interestingly, Susanne Miller, Unit Lead, International Networks at Bavaria Tourism, says the state embraces local insiders to showcase its diversity. Among the most interesting is illustrator and artist Werner Härtl, who paints rural scenes with fresh cow dung.

Make the most of Munich

 As one of Germany’s most visited destinations, the Munich Tourist Board’s Melanie Reif knows that Canadians are already well versed in what the city offers. So the Head of International Trade Relations put the spotlight on two brand new hotel offerings.

The first is the newly opened five-star Rosewood Munich, the brand’s first property in Germany, housed in two landmark historical buildings, the former headquarters of the State Bank of Bavaria and the adjacent Palais Neuhaus-Preysing, a former grand aristocratic residence. And opening in spring 2024 is a 106 room JW Marriott, a new build on the traditional site of the old Hotel Königshof. Notably, Munich will host four EURO matches, including the opening game.

Soak up the culture in Saxony

Germany’s leading cultural destination, with its historic capital, Dresden and its largest city, Leipzig, have lots of offer for visitors, but next year Saxony is a big destination for the travel trade as well.

Wolfgang Gärtner, Head of International Marketing, Saxony Tourism, highlighted that the 2024 Germany Travel Mart well be held in Chemnitz, which will also be the European Capital of Culture in 2025. Four EURO games will also be held at the Red Bull Arena in Leipzig.

Our guide to exploring the best of Rome by day and night

October 13, 2023 No Comments

With a history spanning 2,775 years, Rome is loaded with impressive ancient architecture seemingly around every corner. While the sights continue to lure in international visitors, Italy’s capital city is also known for its vibrant food scene, culture and nightlife.

“The Eternal City is just that – eternal and timeless in its appeal, as it continues to exude more than 2,000 years of history and culture,” guided tour operator Tauck’s product manager, Brenda MacKellar, who designs and oversees the tour operator’s itineraries in Italy, tells Offshore. “One can encounter ancient ruins in an amazing array of places — at the Roman Forum or one of the many other well-known archeological sites throughout the city, or in completely unexpected places – for example, underneath a church.”

Along with iconic spots, here are some surefire ways to ensure a memorable visit to The Eternal City. 

DAY

PHOTO SPOTS

For a unique view of St. Peter’s Basilica, head to the Aventine Keyhole on the top of Aventine Hill. The unassuming door gives way to a perfectly framed view of the basilica’s dome. Many visitors come to take a photo through the keyhole, but it’s also possible to enter the gardens with a booked appointment through the Priory of Knights of Malta.

For those who keep track of places they’ve visited, the area and the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, of Rhodes and of Malta, located down the road from the Spanish Steps, have rights of extraterritoriality. This means that those who visit either spot, along with the Vatican City during an Italian voyage, can add three destinations to their repertoire or set foot in three separate destinations in one day.

While in the Vatican, one of the best views of Rome is from the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s €8 to climb to the top by foot or €10 for the elevator ride so we recommend splurging on the lift.

STROLL

To many first time visitors, Rome can seem like an enormous, sprawling city. However, it’s far more walkable than many realize.

“I love to take a leisurely passeggiata (stroll) through the city centre that takes in so many splendid sites, such as Piazza di Spagna, the Pantheon — perhaps the most well preserved of the city’s ancient buildings — or the Piazza del Popolo,” says MacKellar, who spent five years living in Rome. “Along the way, I try to step inside some of Rome’s wonderful churches, like San Luigi dei Francesi where you can see no less than three amazing Caravaggio paintings. In a very real sense, Rome is a living museum.”

STAY

For a remarkable stay, check into Palazzo Dama, a boutique property set in a former noble palace that once served as the residence of the Malaspinas, a family that hosted high-society gatherings for dignitaries, diplomats, aristocrats, and the cultural elite.

The elegant hotel features 29 guestrooms and suites with marble bathrooms, mere steps away from Piazza del Popolo and a short walk to other attractions like The Spanish Steps and The Trevi Fountain. From handwritten notes delivered during turndown service featuring the weather for the next day to a custom pillow menu, the hotel focuses on providing elevated service.

Stand out features include crystal chandeliers, a picturesque pool and secluded indoor and outdoor spots to chill and dine. Palazzo Dama is a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ L.V.X. portfolio of luxury properties known for providing exclusive service in unique settings. To escape the heat during a hot summer’s day, we recommend hitting the outdoor pool for an afternoon dip.

NIGHT

SUNSET

While Aperol Spritz has become a trendy drink of choice for cocktail hour in Canada, Italy’s bars boast many different varieties like the Limoncello Spritz and the Hugo Spritz (made with an elderflower liqueur such as St. Germain). 

“After your passeggiata, take advantage of the city’s vibrant café culture and kick back with an aperitivo drink and light snack in the early evening,” says MacKellar. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to savour Rome’s charms, enjoy wonderful people watching, or simply relax before meeting friends for dinner in one of the city’s incredible restaurants.”

There are many hot spots to view the sunset for aperitivo hour such as the rooftop bar Terrace Les Etoiles and the Terrazza Borromini featuring spectacular 360 degree views over Rome, or Aroma, a one-star Michelin restaurant overlooking the Colosseum. 

DINE

Overall, Italy is renowned for its food scene and Rome does not disappoint. 

“Cacio e pepe is a symbol of Rome – like the Colosseum — it’s an institution. This typically Roman pasta dish goes back to ancient times,” says Irma Berlingieri, manager, product development at Air Canada Vacations. “In their sacks, local shepherds would carry cacio cheese made from sheep’s milk, pepper, and dried spaghetti.”

To try this classic pasta dish made with cheese and black pepper, Berlingieri suggests Settimo Roman Cuisine & Terrace, Osteria Zi’Umberto or Felice A Testaccio. Reservations are recommended as popular spots book up quickly. 

“Italy’s capital also calls for carbonara, a deliciously egg-based pasta with pancetta or guanciale (cured pork jowl) and pecorino romano cheese,” she adds. “Save space for an order of the seasonal carciofo alla giudia, Rome’s famous deep-fried, Jewish-style artichokes, and snack on supplì, fried rice balls usually stuffed with tomato sauce, mozzarella and meat.”

BEAT THE CROWDS

Rome also boasts gorgeous Baroque architecture and amazing fountains. “Trevi Fountain is perhaps the best known, but a personal favourite is Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers in Piazza Navona,” says MacKellar.

Beat some of the crowds by visiting the fountains at night with a gelato or a wine in hand, instead of during the day when many cruise ships are in port. Gelato shops are open late so this treat isn’t just for daytime. The Nutella and Kinder flavours are hard to beat. 

“In addition to delicious food, Rome has historical sites everywhere you turn,” adds Berlingieri. “Walking the small streets is the best way to find cafés, gelato shops or small typical cuisine restaurants around every corner. Taking advantage of a hop-on hop-off is the fastest way to cover a lot of ground exploring the surroundings at every stop.”

This article first appeared in the Fall 2023 issue of OFFSHORE. Click here to read the digital magazine.

This massive hotel in Barbados is set on a former castle

October 11, 2023 No Comments

Wyndham Grand, the hotel brand known for its upscale accommodations and approachable designs, is now taking reservations for its newest resort, the inviting 422-room all-inclusive Wyndham Grand Barbados, Sam Lord’s Castle Resort & Spa.

The secluded, ocean-front hotel marks Wyndham Hotels & Resorts’ entrance into Barbados and will begin welcoming its first guests beginning October 12 with select amenities, followed by a formal Grand Opening in early 2024.

Nestled on the Southeastern side of the island of Barbados, just 15 minutes from the Grantley International Airport, the hotel is located on the former site of Sam Lord’s Castle, which was once renowned for pirates during the 19th century.

The all-new construction, all-inclusive resort offers 422 guest rooms, including 37 suites with sophisticated architecture and sustainable designs, along with large ocean views and lanai-style private balconies to allow guests to bask in the joy of indoor and outdoor living.

Contemporary cuisine

At peak operation, guests can enjoy contemporary culinary experiences in the resort’s more than 10 dining venues, which cater to a variety of tastes. Culinary highlights include the Mediterranean Marketplace featuring flavors from North Africa, Italy, France, Portugal and Spain, pop-up food trucks, poolside dining and more.

Celebrating Barbados’local offerings, the resort also features a specialty “farm to fork” experience with locally sourced ingredients from nearby farmers, fisherman and purveyors.

Wellness and relaxation

For guests seeking to unwind, the hotel will feature a 13,000 square foot spa with a pool area and relaxation deck, along with a state-of-the-art fitness center and a sunrise yoga center. Other on-site amenities include lagoon-style swimming pools, a kids center, butler service, tennis and pickleball courses.

The resort also offers 15,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor meeting and event space that can accommodate up to 1,100 guests, top-of-the-line technology and purposefully built landscapes perfect for staging weddings and special events. Guests are encouraged to contact the hotel directly for the latest on available amenities.

Survey shows this is how most Canadians love to travel

October 9, 2023 No Comments

A new Sunwing Vacations survey has unveiled how Canadians choose to maximize their time on vacation and define their vacation personas.

More than one-quarter (27%) considering themselves “max relaxers” who like to lay low and relax while on vacation.

Similarly, another quarter (28%) describe themselves as “reserved vacationers” who tend to keep to themself and/or their travelling companions.

On the other hand, more than one-fifth (22%) liken themselves to “adventure hunters” who enjoy exploring new, fun activities on their vacations. Of particular note: this figure increases to one-third (34%) among younger Canadians between 18-34 years of age.

Meanwhile, 12 per cent of Canadians consider themselves “sun-seekers” who love nothing more than soaking up the sunshine on holiday, while one-in-ten (9%) consider themselves “social butterflies” who relish meeting new people, socializing and talking to fellow vacation-goers.

Among Canadians who intend to travel to a sun destination in the upcoming year, approximately one-third (30%) said they will maximize their time in destination by working on their tan by the beach or pool, while one-fifth respectively intend to indulge at on-site restaurants (20%) or head off of the resort property for fun adventures (19%).

Sun destination trends

As for who they intend to travel with on their next sun vacation, half (53%) of survey respondents indicated that they plan to travel with their partner or significant other, while one-quarter (28%) will travel with family members including their children or parents. Another 12% plan to travel with friends, while less than one in ten (7%) indicated they will be travelling solo.

Budget-conscious travellers

In addition, when asked what the most important factor is when booking a sun vacation, nearly half (45%) of those likely to travel say overall value for the money paid is their top consideration.

This is followed by the safety and reputation of the destination, cited by over one-quarter (28%) as being the most important consideration.

The survey was conducted in both English and French between September 22-25, 2023, with a nationally representative sample of 1,504 Canadians who are members of the Angus Reid forum.