TRAVELHotNews.com Magazine

ALIO WEST NOW OPEN FOR BUSINESS

Alio offers the world from its new Vancouver office
Janice Strong

Alio national sales staff, from left: Tamara Mallin, Lidia Markser, Lenka Marcoux, Michele Rauzon. Eric Johnston in front

Alio welcomed the Vancouver travel trade to an open house at its new office July 8 and 9 to celebrate the launch of its Western Canadian operation. Agents and other industry insiders were invited to enjoy snacks, beverages and a great view from the company�s 14th floor location overlooking Vancouver Harbour. There were also gifts for all and the chance to win two tickets to Mexico courtesy of Mexicana. Why the move west? �We�ve been wanting to come west for a long time,� said Eric Johnston, President, Alio. [Full text and pictures]

THE RESULTS ARE IN

THN West announces last week's poll results

Last week THN Western Edition wanted to know where you are sending your clients this summer. In a tie for number one place, both with 33 per cent of the vote were Mexico/Caribbean and Asia/South Pacific/Australia. Twenty-two per cent of the readers voted that they are sending their clients to Europe this summer, and 11 per cent said USA/Canada. No one noted South America as their destination favourite this summer. Check in next week for THN West�s next poll question.

G.A.P WINS FLIGHT CENTRE AWARD

Tour operator wins first ever �Sustainable Tourism� award from Flight Centre; awards presentation hosted in Vancouver on July 5

Sheralynn Berry accepts the award from Greg Dixon with enthusiasm

Flight Centre North America and its corporate division, FCm Travel Solutions, have announced that G.A.P. Adventures is the first winner of the company�s Sustainable Tourism award established to recognize the industry supplier that has made the greatest effort to minimize their environmental impact. The award was presented to G.A.P.�s Sheralynn Berry at Flight Centre�s annual black-tie Ball held in Vancouver on July 5th. [Full text and pictures]

KUMUKA�s NORTH AMERICA

Kumuka offers family tours in the Rockies

Small group tours, family adventures now available in U.S., Canada
Kumuka Worldwide recently announced its expansion into North America with itineraries now available in USA and Canada. Kumuka Worldwide now operates 10 Small Group tours in USA and Canada as well as two Family Adventures. Kumuka limits Small Group tour group sizes to 12 in Canada and 9 in the USA. Smaller groups provide travellers with flexibility and a little more intimacy providing authentic cultural experiences. Keep reading for some more information on these brand new itineraries. [Full text and pictures]

CANADA'S ISLAND RETREAT

Radisson announces Radisson Resort Hecla, a unique island retreat on Lake Winnipeg

Carlson Hotels Worldwide has announced the opening of its newest Canadian resort, the Radisson Resort Hecla, an island retreat on Lake Winnipeg. Inspired by Nordic traditions, this resort embodies the elements of rock, water, ice, fire and wood. The 90-room Radisson Resort Hecla is located on Hecla Island within Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park, two hours north of Winnipeg, Manitoba. Surrounded by Lake Winnipeg, the 10th largest freshwater lake in the world, Hecla Island gives its visitors a taste of the coast in the middle of the continent. The island offers more than 75 kilometres of trails for hiking, biking, skiing and snowshoeing. Visitors can also visit a number of beaches, historical sites, kayaking and other outdoor activities. The resort has an on-site naturalist; guests can also play golf at Hecla Oasis Golf, Manitoba�s public course. [Full text and pictures]