After a flurry of attention and several weeks of whirlwind fundraising, the buzz surrounding the devastating earthquake that hit Haiti on January 12 -- and Royal Caribbean’s controversial decision to continue calls on Labadee in an effort to bring aid to Haitians -- seems to have died down. However, the island is still struggling; aid is coming slowly and people are frustrated and frightened.
The U.S. Department of Commerce recently announced that international visitors spent an estimated $10.3 billion on travel to, and tourism-related activities within, the United States during the month of January -nearly $310 million less (3 percent) than was spent in January 2009.
Port Canaveral next year looks to have a record number of ships making port calls to Central Florida. In 2011, Port Canaveral will host 126 ship visits, more than double the 2009 total. Multiple calls are scheduled for Carnival Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International, as well as one-time visits from other lines.
The Bermuda Department of Tourism appointed Robin C. Danes as director of sales for Canada. Danes, who serves as president of RC Danes and Associates, will provide sales support to the retail, wholesale and incentive trade in Canada and to drive sales to new niche markets within Canada, with special focus on Toronto, where nonstop air service is available.
Dominica and the Dominica Watersports Association promise to deliver an action-packed program over 10 days focused on scuba diving during its 17th annual Dive Fest, July 9 to 18. As Dive Fest was established to showcase the marine environment of Dominica to visitors and residents, this year’s event will provide an amazing dive experience and more for all those who participate. Dominica hotels and tour operators are offering a variety of dive packages for Dive Fest.
GOGO Worldwide Vacations launched the ninth annual edition of its Mexico Extravaganza Sale with rates reduced up to 65 percent and with one or more of the following added values: free nights, kids stay and eat free, food and beverage, resort or spa credits (up to $200) and guaranteed room upgrades.