Travel Markets Insider Newsletter Vol. 19 No. 11

Lois Pasternak
November 9, 2017
Uncategorized

The Travel Markets Insider newsletter is attached to this post as a PDF file. To open the PDF file, please click on this link.

 

In today’s issue, TMI takes a close look at the latest updates on the recovery of the islands in the Caribbean that were hit by monster hurricanes Irma and Maria in September. Now, two months after the storms made landfall in the region, more than 50% of such key islands as Puerto Rico, St. Thomas and St. John, Anguilla and others are still without power, although repair efforts are vigorously underway.

 

But the main message coming out of the region is that the CARIBBEAN IS OPEN for tourism, and all of the stakeholders involved in this key economic sector are working together to welcome visitors. In Puerto Rico, for example, more than 70% of hotel properties are operating and the cruise piers are open.
The cruise companies have been especially supportive. Not only did they provide more than $30 million in financial resources, deliver supplies and rescue stranded tourists after the storms, but they are returning to the islands in force, carrying passengers with those all- important tourist dollars. See reports on pages 1-4
As we prepared to send out this issue, in fact, I received an announcement from Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), listing five reasons why people should be cruising to the Caribbean now, which I am sharing here.
“Providing much needed relief is only the first step in helping the Caribbean region. Tourism is essential to local economies and the cruise industry is committed to the region and will continue to offer amazing cruise itineraries and experiences,” said Cindy D’Aoust, president and CEO, CLIA.
Top Five Reasons Why Now is the Time to Plan a Cruise to the Caribbean
 

1.     The Caribbean is Open: Caribbean cruise ports ARE open and welcoming guests. There are almost 50 Caribbean cruise ports currently in operation to these amazing destinations. Today there are thousands of cruise passengers headed to beautiful destinations in the Caribbean such as the Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic.

2     Deals & Promos: October is officially Plan a Cruise Month and the cruise industry is offering a variety of incentives to plan a cruise vacation… so a trip to the Caribbean can come at a deep discount.

3.     New Itineraries: Cruisers looking to relax can visit some of the world’s best beaches on a Caribbean getaway, while those looking for adventure can zipline through lush landscapes or snorkel with sea life. Cruise lines are offering new, fresh itineraries to ensure a great cruise vacation for travelers.

4.     Support Recovery: The Caribbean islands rely heavily on tourism dollars to support individuals, small businesses and overall, local economies. A great way to support recovery in the region is to book a Caribbean cruise vacation.

5.     Unique Experiences: No matter the time of year, the Caribbean always offers a chance to create a unique and once-in-a-lifetime travel experience. The area is home to ancient temples, beautiful beaches, delicious local cuisine, and more. Whether looking to scuba dive along exotic reefs or partake in a rum tasting, there’s something for every type of traveler in the Caribbean and now is the time to book.

AIRPORTS
Airport group ASUR reports October numbers: its Mexico traffic was strong, but Puerto Rico understandably took a big hit and the new business in Colombia was impacted by an airline strike. Page 3.
AT THE POINT OF SALE
JFK Terminal 4 announces the opening of another iconic fashion brand with a new shop for Kate Spade New York, operated by Hudson Group. Page 3.
PEOPLE
LVMH has reshuffled some top positions on its Executive Committee; Fairn & Swanson has named a new VP of Cruise & Wholesale; and a familiar face – Maurice Doyle – has returned to Bacardi in a new position that includes travel retail. Stories on pages 1 & 3.