Europe on the Upswing, Plus News from Four Seasons, Transat, Puerto Rico and more

According to the European Travel Commission's (ETC) latest quarterly 'European Tourism Trends and Prospects' report, Europe enjoyed a healthy 4% increase in tourist arrivals in 2019 compared to 2018.

While the rate of expansion was slower than previous years across certain individual destinations, the overall regional performance remains in positive territory. Increasing numbers of tourist arrivals generate income and support employment and investment in Europe, not only acting as a catalyst for economic expansion, but also contributing to and demonstrating the social and cultural value in the region.

Montenegro, Turkey, and Lithuania registered double-digit increases in tourist arrivals, whilst Portugal, Serbia Slovakia and The Netherlands also outperformed the average. Montenegro's 21% surge was shored-up by greater connectivity and infrastructure investment, while Turkey (+14%) is set to invest heavily and diversify its tourism promotion activities throughout 2020 with the aim of increasing the volume and quality of tourists. Increased air connectivity has helped Lithuania's (+10%) performance, while the recent award of most "Accessible Tourist Destination 201" to Portugal (+7%) reflects the country's efforts to promote accessible tourism. Visa relaxation policies and bilateral business relations between destinations and source markets also continue to be key factors in encouraging travel, particularly in Serbia (+7%).

However, it hasn't been entirely positive for all European destinations. In Romania (-4%) continued challenges related to infrastructure and tourism promotion remain, while the demise of WOW Air and a strong Krona explain the steep decline in arrivals to Iceland (-14%).

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, the world's leading luxury hospitality company, has been awarded 56 Five-Stars by Forbes Travel Guide, the highest honour from the guide. Once again, Four Seasons has received the most Five-Star ratings awarded to a hotel brand in a single year, encompassing 44 hotels, ten spas and two restaurants.

"Across Four Seasons global portfolio, we continue to drive innovation, elevate the guest experience and pursue an unmatched level of service excellence," says Christian Clerc, President, Global Operations, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. "Beyond our exceptional properties and incredible restaurants, bars and spas, it is the passion and commitment of our people that truly sets us apart - people who transform a guest's stay with a thoughtful note or anticipatory gesture, delivering an unmatched level of unscripted care that has become the hallmark of true luxury."

Eleven Four Seasons properties were added to the list this year, including Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet, Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus, Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square, Four Seasons Hotel Moscow, Four Seasons Hotel Prague, Four Seasons Hotel Seoul, Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club, Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg, Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara, Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita, and Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa.

"I am very proud to see so many of our hotels and resorts recognised for their excellence by Forbes Travel Guide, an accolade that has been achieved by the collective hard work and dedication of our people around the world," Clerc said.

Discover Puerto Rico, the Island's Destination Marketing Organization, has announced the rollout of a new campaign, #GoForPuertoRico, to encourage travel to the Island following January's seismic activity.

Drawing inspiration from Puerto Rico's resilient spirit, the new creative reminds travellers that Puerto Rico is open for tourism, focuses on the Island's diverse offerings, and communicates that by travelling, visitors are fueling local communities.

Puerto Rico had record-breaking numbers in lodging revenue, airport arrivals and meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) bookings for the 2019 calendar year and expects to sustain the tourism momentum through 2020. From air access being at an all-time high to witnessing notable advancements in the lodging industry, tourism numbers in 2019 surpassed the Island's past high. Lodging revenue reached nearly $1 billion USD in the past year. The Island also received 5.2 million travellers across all airports throughout the Island, which include tourists, diaspora, and visiting friends and relatives. And, specifically, the MICE sector showed a tremendous increase in leads, which could positively impact the next six years, providing a potential economic impact of over $320 million to Puerto Rico.

The new campaign builds upon Discover Puerto Rico's brand campaign "Have We Met Yet?," which re-introduced the Island to the world in April 2019. Travellers and meeting planners will immediately be drawn by the many aspects that make Puerto Rico a unique and meaningful destination - ranging from the hospitality of the Puerto Rican people, to the cuisine, to the festive spirit, to abundant natural attractions, and much more.

"Our destination is ready and continues to receive visitors not only in the San Juan area, but across all regions," said Brad Dean, CEO of Discover Puerto Rico. "A way people can show their support for the Island is to travel to Puerto Rico for their vacations, work trips, meetings, conferences and events. Flights are operating normally to all airports, attractions across the Island are open, and all major hotels are operating," he added.

New figures released by VisitBritain, the national tourism agency, show strong growth in visitor arrivals from Canada to the UK during the first nine months of 2019.

From January to September 2019, there were 707,000 visits from Canada to the UK, up 5% on the same period in 2018. These are the second-highest January to September results, just behind the 2008 record of 712,000 visits.

Canadians spent a record £624 million across the UK from January to September 2019, up 19%.

There were new records for holiday visits and spend for the first nine months of 2019, with visits up 18% and spend up 25% on the same period in 2018.

VisitBritain Executive Vice President, The Americas, Gavin Landry said:

"2019 has seen consistently strong results for Canadian inbound tourism to the UK, demonstrating Britain's continued ability to compete internationally for visitors in a fiercely competitive global environment.

"Britain is a favourite destination for Canadians, and these strong numbers show how much Canadians enjoy exploring all that Britain has to offer. Canadians see value for money and it is a great time to visit the UK, particularly in the off-season, when your dollar goes further.'

Since May 2019, Canadian citizens can use ePassport gates, giving easier and faster entry into the UK, boosting the country's competitive tourism offer and its message of welcome.

Transat, Canada's leader in leisure travel, will bring Scandinavia and its legendary charms closer to Canadian travellers this summer with two direct flights per week out of Montreal to Copenhagen, along with a selection of guided tours, packages and cruises that highlight Nordic splendours. There's something for every type of traveller.

The flights will begin on June 16, 2020 and will end on September 20, 2020 from Montreal-Trudeau, with connecting service from Vancouver and Toronto.

Surrounded by the North Sea on one side and the Baltic on the other, Scandinavia shines the brightest in summertime. From Norway's majestic fjords to the Stockholm archipelago and the cities of Denmark, you have a range of options to plan the perfect itinerary.

Copenhagen, the jewel in Scandinavia's crown

One of the world's great design capitals, beautiful Copenhagen is renowned for its waterways and green spaces, and as a place where pedestrians and cyclists reign supreme.

You'll want to take a boat ride along the canals lined with colourful houses, immerse yourself in culture at one of the royal palaces, enjoy a four-star dining experience, or explore the latest in lifestyle and sustainability trends. In addition, you'll soak up the Nordic concept of hygge and learn first-hand why the Danes consistently top the lists of the world's happiest people.

Copenhagen aficionados and first-timers alike will love Transat's package which includes air travel, transfers, accommodations, and breakfasts, along with the Copenhagen Card, providing access to more than 80 top attractions so you can maximize your sightseeing in every neighbourhood of this multifaceted city.

All the must-sees in Scandinavia, with flexible options

If you're seeking a worry-free way to experience Scandinavia, from its Viking heritage to its breathtaking sea-and-sky scenery, look no further than the Viking Route in Denmark & Sweden guided tour: 14 idyllic days in the two countries including air travel, transfers, accommodations, coach and ferry transport, and the services of an experienced guide. All the highlights of this stunning destination are covered, from a stroll through the cobblestoned streets of Ribe's old town to tours of the royal castles of Koldinghus and Frederiksborg, plus all of Copenhagen's must-visit spots, of course.

The rich heritage of the former Danish capital, Roskilde, is another high point, starting with the Viking Ship Museum, home to more than 1,000 years of history, and the medieval cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the final resting place of many Danish kings and queens. On the way to Gothenburg and Helsingborg, in Sweden, travellers can spot seals in their natural habitat during a scenic cruise in the Kattegat Strait, and admire the wild beaches along the Jutland peninsula. In short, it's the best of marine, city and country life all in one tour.

Transat is also offering two multi-city packages lasting 9 or 11 days. Each features three destinations and zero hassles for travellers: they'll be free to explore the essentials of Scandinavia at their own pace, but with no worries when it comes to planning, since their itinerary, transportation and accommodations are all taken care of.

The industry-leading ultra-luxury cruise line, Silversea Cruises, has opened sales on the Grand Voyage Arctic 2021-a remarkable 51-port itinerary that connects a range of once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Between July 16 and September 17, 2021, Silver Cloud will journey between Tromsø and Nome (Alaska), unlocking unique experiences for guests over 63 nights. The cruise line's guests will travel deep into seven countries to witness untouched glaciers, captivating wildlife, and remote communities, while also crossing the fabled Northwest Passage and enjoying two maiden calls-Nordfjordholmen (Melfjord, Norway) and Lysebotn (Norway). Silversea's team of Expedition Experts will enhance the experience with informative lectures, immersive Zodiac tours, and activities ashore, while esteemed guest speakers, bespoke events, and many onboard enrichments complete the offering. Fares for the Grand Voyage Arctic 2021 begin from CAD $99,000 per person-based on two sharing and including an Early Booking Bonus.

51 PORTS, SEVEN COUNTRIES, AND TWO MAIDEN CALLS

On this remarkable itinerary that will unlock many unique experiences, travellers will follow in the footsteps of Amundsen, Franklin & Ross by traversing the famous Northwest Passage. This iconic route has long intrigued the most intrepid of travelers and remains a life-defining adventure for many. Historically significant destinations, such as Beechey Island and Gjoa Haven, will enable guests to learn more about the passage's discovery, as they develop a deep appreciation for this pristine region and all that inhabits it.

Sandals Royal Caribbean is excited to announce the recent opening of the newly constructed Sandringham building, which accommodates the spacious Beachfront Honeymoon One-Bedroom Walkout Butler Suites and the Royal Beachfront Club Elite Suites, bringing the resort's luxurious room and suite count to 232.

Just steps away from the beach, the Beachfront Honeymoon One-Bedroom Walkout Butler Suites offer guests a true home away from home with a master bedroom boasting a king-size bed, Smart TV, separate living room and spa-style bathroom. The Royal Beachfront Club Elite Suites are equally as luxurious with a king-size bed, spa-style bathroom with a rain shower and fully stocked bar. Most notably, both suites come equipped with Sandals' renowned Tranquility Soaking Tubs™ for two on their patios and balconies, offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the resort's private island.

In addition to these new suite categories in the new Sandringham building, Sandals Royal Caribbean recently introduced two additions to its 5-Star Global Gourmet dining options: Spices and Bombay Club. Spices serves up only the best in pan-Caribbean favourites, featuring delicious breakfast options, ever-changing daily lunch buffet themes and a charming dinner experience guests won't forget. Bombay Club offers a unique collection of flavourful Indian dishes, and is the perfect dining option for scenic views and exotic fare.