CUBA VOWS TO CARRY ON: ‘Disappointed’ Sunwing latest to suspend Cuba operations indefinitely
On a day that a defiant Cuba Tourist Board declared the country “open for global business,” including transitioning hotels to Cuban brands, Sunwing Vacations Group declared that it had made the “difficult decision” to indefinitely suspend all its Cuba operations until further notice.
ABRA-CADABRA: Air Canada ‘unlocks the Americas’ with new partnership
With the stroke of a pen, Air Canada has signed an agreement designed to further “unlock the Americas” through a strategic partnership with the parent company of Avianca and GOL airlines.
AIR TRANSAT REASSURES OVER SUMMER TRAVEL
Air Transat says it has enough fuel to maintain normal operations throughout the summer season. The message of reassurance further comes with enhanced flexibility conditions for clients applicable to its Eco Standard and Club Standard fares for a limited time.
WISH YOU WERE HERE: Antigua and Barbuda
By MICHAEL BAGINSKI/ Held every July and early August, Antigua and Barbuda Carnival is far more than a festival, it’s a living expression of the islands’ history, identity, and spirit.
WORLD CUP HIGH: Soccer fans expected to feel the need for weed
With less than a week to go before the World Cup, a Toronto cannabis shop has already got ahold of the trophy – sort of. Cosmic Charlies is selling golden bongs that resemble the tournament’s prize and are marketed as “a true hat trick: portable, durable and easy to clean.”
WEEKLY ROUND-UP: June 1-5, 2026
A round-up of news nuggets, airlines, hotels/resorts, cruising, tours, events, FAMS/incentives, deals, destinations and more are covered in our weekly round-up of travel industry news you may have missed.
Check out our special inFocus Editions...
Just in case you missed yesterday’s stories…
WILL WAR GROUND FREQUENT FLYER POINTS? Here are some strategies to help
First, the bad news. Users of credit cards that accrue airline miles and points toward various travel perks are likely to find their balances won’t take them as far this summer.
MID EAST CRISIS DENTS, DOESN’T DERAIL, TOURISM: And which region is thriving
Despite disruption caused by the crisis in the Middle East, International tourist arrivals grew 2% over the first quarter of 2026, according to the United Nations.
CAUGHT PACKING: Airport authorities foil ill-disguised bomb threat
A man carrying what authorities described as an explosive device powerful enough to damage a plane, as well as a torch lighter, knife, zip ties and other items, was arrested after trying to pass through a Sacramento International Airport security checkpoint over the weekend, federal prosecutors said.
SHELTER IN PLACE VS. LOCKDOWN: Why the distinction matters in crisis
By FERNANDO LOPEZ MEDINA/ Security threats have a way of reminding us how fragile normal life can be. They erupt without warning, escalate quickly and force people, governments and organizations into rapid decision-making.
WINTERTIME’S THE NEW TIME FOR CRUISING IN EUROPE
By WALLACE IMMEN/ With global conflicts seemingly never-ending, more cruise lines are shifting winter itineraries away from the Middle East and Africa to offer guests the security of Europe. And they’re seeing strong bookings because despite the cooler temperatures, the off-season promises a relief from tourist crowds.
LISTENING IN: Good, old-fashioned Freddie
By MICHAEL BAGINSKI/ A casual conversation at an industry luncheon the other day (long story) revealed that my considerably younger colleagues were oblivious to the existence of Live Aid, the epic, generational concerts in London and Philadelphia in 1985 that were organized to raise funds for Ethiopian famine relief. (Woodstock was vaguely recognized).