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LATA Members’ Newsletter – Nov 2023

member-news

REGION-WIDE/MULTI-DESTINATION

Aqua Expeditions

Aqua Expeditions wins at CN Traveler’s 2023 Reader’s Choice Awards

Capping off a star-studded 2023 — the first full year where Aqua Expeditions’ entire fleet of five has been in operation — we are pleased to announce that Aqua has been named among three of the world’s top expedition ships as part of Condé Nast Traveler’s 2023 Reader’s Choice Awards. This follows an equally impressive set of victories earlier this year, wherein Aqua’s fleet of river ships was named the best in the world by Travel + Leisure and our ocean yachts placed third in the Best Intimate Ship Ocean Cruise Line category.

 

Earn an Incentive by booking via our Agent Portal

Check live availability, make a courtesy hold, book multiple cabins and process payments instantly. Our fully integrated booking system now allows for secure online bookings and payment processing, making it easier than ever to book Aqua Expeditions. Plus, an added incentive for you! Earn a $50 USD Amazon.com gift card each time you confirm a booking via our Agent Portal.

Access our Agent Portal HERE today to get started!

 


Tropic DMC

Sustainability

Tropic successfully passed our annual audit leading to the renewal of our Preferred by Nature certification (formerly Rainforest Alliance). This effort reinforces our dedication and commitment to sustainability and credentials as a sustainable tourism operator.

Our sustainability commitment extends to our communities – the people who live in the places we visit, as well as the areas themselves. We show it through our innovative May I Introduce You programs engaging with and celebrating local cultures; Tropic Forest Initiatives where we raise awareness in our ecosystems while helping to maintain and restore them; our Tropic Collection of owner-operated boutique accommodations, each of which strives to create a positive impact; and our Guardians programs (Mountain, Amazon and Galapagos), where we recognize our role as stewards of the land and our cultures.


Condor Travel

Sustainability

At Condor Travel, we are proud of our destinations in South America and the effort behind the first-class service we offer. That’s why we decided to relaunch our image to illustrate our passion for travel and our deep commitment to excellence in travel planning and operation.

This face-lift only reinforces our essence: to always put our customers and their travelers in the spotlight as the backbone of our operation. We don’t just sell South America – we make dreams come true!


Senderos

News from Senderos Partners

No Single Supplement for single cabins on Integrity Galapagos in 2024! Great news for solo travellers and odd-numbered parties looking for a week-long cruise on a small, luxury vessel!

Tortuga Lodge Transfers
Boena Lodges now exclusively use Caño Blanco port for transfers to and from their property in Tortuguero, ensuring operations aren’t vulnerable to changes in river levels.

Combine Tierra Chiloé with another Tierra hotel and get 3 Free Nights
Valid until April 2024 with Tierra Patagonia and March 2024 with Tierra Atacama. See details HERE.

See more Senderos News, Webinars and Offers on our dedicated webpage.

info@senderos.co.uk


ANTARCTICA

Poseidon Expeditions

Black Friday—the ultimate deal of the year

Unleash the power of Black Friday—the ultimate deal of the year! Poseidon presents exclusive discounts for Antarctic cruises. Choose your ideal expedition:

– Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica (6 – 26 January, 2024)
– Crossing the Antarctic Circle (25 January – 8 February, 2024)

January in Antarctica offers perfection with penguin chicks, bright polar days, and favorable weather.

Embark on a journey with Poseidon and discover the enchanting beauty of the 7th continent or explore our captivating alternative destinations.

Visit our website or connect with our sales team for more information.


ARGENTINA

Los Cauquenes Resort + Spa + Experiences

VIRTUOSO

Los Cauquenes Resort + Spa + Experiences (Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina) is proud to announce that it has recently re-joined VIRTUOSO, the prestigious luxury travel advisor membership.

In addition to this great news, the hotel just inaugurated 6 new Patagonia Beagle Channel view Suites. This exclusive and Patagonian style category, with unique views over the Beagle Channel and mountain peaks, it has a capacity for a maximum of 4 guests, offers a spacious living room area with modern and cozy decoration, a comfortable room with king size bed (or 2 twin size beds), toilet and a complete bathroom with shower box, bathtub and walking closet.

A new concept is born in Ushuaia with this exclusive accommodation proposal for high end guests.


BOLIVIA

Magri Turismo

Rebrand

We are thrilled to introduce you the new face of Magri Group, an evolution that marks a milestone in our 50-year history in the travel industry. On this journey into the future, we have redefined our brand to continue bringing you the most memorable and exclusive experiences along with one clear vision: to lead the industry and set the pace for the future of sustainable tourism.

We are committed to ongoing growth and innovation, and our business strategy guides us on the path to remain industry leaders. With over 50 years of experience, we take pride in our legacy and are excited about the future.


Crillon Tours

Today, we want to highlight an important ancestral practice in Bolivia, the “Sustainability”, coming or thousands of years, maintaining a primal connection between man & land, embodied in the concept of Pacha Mama -Mother Earth- where chemicals have no place. Sustainability in Bolivia encompasses culture, forms of production, environmental protection, development models, and the resilient way of life of our society.

Crillon Tours is proud to offer these organic products in all our meals, fostering a cultural exchange with a captivating and mysterious world. Bolivia’s diversity is seamlessly woven into our tourism offerings, emphasizing appreciation and respect for indigenous traditions.
For these reasons, our commitment to “Sustainability” has become a key element in promoting tourism. Don’t miss the opportunity for an extraordinary visit to Bolivia with Crillon Tours!


BRAZIL

Brazilian Tourist Board – Embratur

EMBRATUR Targets Responsible Tourism, Diversity, and Inclusion

Embratur celebrated the award-winning “Rede BATUC Network” at the World Responsible Tourism Awards 2023 during WTM London. The community-led tourism NGO from Bahia State won the golden award for the “best diversity and inclusion” category.

The network brings together more than 30 community-led experiences supporting rural lifestyle, afro-brazilian resistance villages (quilombos), indigenous communities, ecological agriculture, solidarity economy, and popular education. A range of transformative and inspiring experiences are offered by the BATUC network, such as indigenous rituals, ancestral storytelling by afro-brazilian quilombolas, the route of freedom experience (rota da liberdade), family homestays in fishing communities, tasty local cuisine, vibrant music and festivals.

Learn more HERE and follow Embratur’s Afro-tourism documentaries HERE.


CHILE

travelArt

PISCO, PIRATES & STARS – 4-Day Programme

Discover the origin of Pisco, the famous national brandy, as you embark on travelArts’ captivating journey through Chile’s small north. Explore the coastal town of La Serena, renowned for its stunning sandy beaches and well-preserved traditional architecture. A short distance away in Coquimbo, unravel the mysteries of pirate legends. Don’t miss a trip through the Elqui Valley, where you’ll be captivated by the valley’s beauty amid sparse mountain landscapes.

Experience the unparalleled clarity of the night sky by visiting one of the region’s incredible observatories for an unforgettable stargazing adventure. Conclude this travelArt tour with a visit to a winery showcasing impressive pre-Incan Molle culture rock paintings. Immerse yourself in the rich history, picturesque landscapes, and celestial wonders of this captivating Chilean region.

Learn more: info@travelart.com | www.travelart.com


Turavion

Coquimbo region: scenic beauty and starry skies

The Coquimbo region of Chile boasts beautiful valleys, first-class observatories and a rich cultural heritage. La Serena, the region’s capital, is located about five hours north of Santiago and offers a historic center with colonial architecture, churches and museums. The extensive sandy beach provides an ideal backdrop for sunbathing and water sports and showcases the scenic beauty of the Pacific. Cross the Elqui Valley, known for its mountains, vineyards and the production of pisco. Discover charming villages such as Vicuña, the birthplace of Nobel Prize winner Gabriela Mistral. The Elqui Valley offers an incomparable night sky, ideal for stargazing. Nature lovers can explore the coastal cloud forest of the Bosque Fray Jorge National Park and the Humboldt penguin colonies in the Pingüino de Humboldt National Reserve.

incoming@turavion.com | www.turavion-incoming.com


Southbound

Direct flights to Chiloé are back

Reviving this summer, daily flights between Santiago and Castro provide a golden opportunity from January to March. Connecting the vibrant Chilean capital with the mythical Chiloé Island, it is the perfect gateway to explore the island’s rich cultural and natural treasures. Dive into a realm of myths, legends, and incomparable gastronomy on our 3-day, 2-night itineraries.

Witness picturesque palafitos, colourful waterfront houses, and the warm hospitality of locals. Explore the island’s mythical territory, including UNESCO-listed wooden churches and charming coastal villages. Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by Chiloé’s cinematic landscapes with lush evergreen forests.


COLOMBIA

Colombian Journeys

Peace with nature: Rejuvenating war-torn Colombia with sustainable development

The University of Sydney, has published an article on the “Peace with Nature” program, led by the researcher of his institution, Jaime Góngora. This project, which aims to turn former Colombian ex-combatants into environmental custodians, began in 2017, promoting biodiversity conservation through both virtual and face-to-face workshops, in order to generate skills to document endemic flora and fauna. Upon completion, the participant will have the ability to develop businesses focused on nature and sustainable tourism in the Amazon region. “Peace with Nature has become a blueprint for ecological research and social transformation in post-conflict regions, demonstrating how scientific and social progress come hand-in-hand”.

Colombian Journeys firmly believes in the progress of the country based on a collective construction of the entire population under the concept of a sustainable conscience. See more HERE.


COSTA RICA

Journey Costa Rica

Introducing our Villa Portfolio

We´re thrilled to introduce you to our meticulously curated portfolio of luxury villas! Each one holds a special place for us – we´ve combed the country from coast to coast to bring you what we think are Costa Rica´s most remarkable properties. To put together this exclusive collection, we personally inspected and selected every single villa, and we can´t wait for you to see our findings, from boundary-pushing architecture to sustainability stars to truly spectacular views, they all have a unique personality.


Playa Cativo Lodge

New Member

Luxury Boutique Eco Lodge located at the most biologically intense region of Costa Rica.

Hidden amidst the paradise of the Osa Peninsula, our luxury boutique eco lodge is an intimate haven offering elegant accommodations, world-class amenities, and endless opportunities for the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Here, guests enjoy one of the few hotels in the area with immediate access to the Golfo Dulce, recently renovated luxury rooms cooled by ocean breezes, and delicious farm-to-table cuisine.

The resort is encompassed within 1,000-acre of Private Nature Reserve where the adventure begins with lush vegetation, exotic wildlife and a private beach. Find out more HERE.


Amor Arenal

New Member

Amor Arenal is a love-crafted luxury hotel nestled in the tropical forest highlands of Arenal Volcano.

Amor Arenal offers a passage to Costa Rica’s authentic heart. It showcases an independent brand that dances with nature and pays homage to love, its namesake emotion.
Open architecture, an unwavering commitment to preservation, a world-class Spa, and authentic gastronomy delight couples, friends, and families with teenagers.

Situated in the verdant Northern foothills of the iconic Arenal Volcano, Amor Arenal provides unparalleled views of this majestic natural wonder and the dense tropical forest. Amor Arenal offers an uncrowded respite and convenient access to the region’s adventures. Find out more HERE.


Los Altos Resort

New Member

At the height of inspiration, Los Altos elevates the Manuel Antonio experience with natural intensity & heartfelt charm.

Nestled atop a forest-crested hill, Los Altos Resort seamlessly connects to the area’s most secluded beaches and the dense tropical jungle that stretches skyward.

Its upscale amenities, distinguished design, prompts the soul to take flight. Savvy travelers will find a perfect oasis, filled with warm hospitality, premier dining, vibrant mixology, and spontaneous jungle adventures. The high-rise Suites are ideal for families, while the newly introduced Villas and Townhouses present couples with bespoke options for a luxurious and immersive escape. Find our more HERE.


ECUADOR/GALAPAGOS

Galagents Galapagos Cruises

Informative and Invitation to a Webinar

Explore the cutting-edge of luxury eco-tourism with the Galaxy Sirius in our exclusive webinar on December 1st. As a leader in the tourism industry, this is your opportunity to witness the innovation and exclusivity of Galagents Galapagos Cruises’ newest addition. The Sirius sets a new standard in the Galapagos with its sustainable practices and commitment to environmental stewardship. This session will provide valuable insights into its unique market potential, empowering you to make informed decisions.

Additionally, networking with industry peers offers collaborative opportunities. A lucky attendee will also win a voyage on this boutique luxury catamaran. Register now HERE and be part of shaping the future of luxury travel.


Tropic DMC

Holiday availability

The holiday season is upon us. Many people choose to travel during the holidays to escape the stressors of a busy and pressure-filled season and Tropic is here to help! We are excited to report that we still have some availability this holiday season for those that like to plan last-minute.

Whether your guests want to revel in the wonders of the Galapagos on a cruise or on a relaxing land-based stay, adventure through the Amazon to escape the everyday or even celebrate with a feast around the table at a cozy hacienda in the Andes, we’ve got them covered. Contact us to plan your travellers’ holiday adventure in Ecuador!


Anakonda Amazon Cruises

EARLY MONKEY 2025 OFFER

Elevate Guest Experiences: Early Monkey 2025 with Anakonda Amazon Cruises

In the realm of unforgettable journeys, Anakonda Amazon Cruises leads the way by crafting enriching and immersive expeditions through the Ecuadorian Amazon. For 2025, we are excited to offer these unparalleled experiences for your guests. Seize this opportunity with our Early Monkey promotion, which grants an exclusive discount of up to 20%, and elevate your offerings, leaving a lasting impression on your guests.

* This special offer is valid for bookings until June 30, 2024.

See our current 2025 rates HERE.

You may also download our flyer HERE to promote this special offer with your clients.

Contact us for more information at info@anakondaamazoncruises.com


Via Natura

The industry around the globe continues recognizing the importance of the launch of a new cruise serving the ultra-luxury market in the Galapagos Islands. Hermes Mega Catamaran is now part of Serandipians, the exclusive community of different and original experiences for luxury travelers.

If you serve HNW and UHNW individuals and want to meet their needs and demands on a cruise in the Galapagos Islands, contact us at dandrade@vianatura.com and discover the unprecedented Hermes Mega Catamaran, Galapagos First Ultra-Luxury Cruise.


EL SALVADOR

Embassy of El Salvador in the United Kingdom

Three Mesmerizing Volcanoes in The Land Of Hosts

Visit El Salvador, the land of hosts that awaits you with great volcanoes: Izalco, Ilamatepec, and Cerro Verde.

This circuit in the Apaneca mountain range offers visitors a unique experience. The Cerro Verde’s interpretive trails and biodiversity make it ideal for hiking. The Santa Ana Volcano, perfect for beginners, offers unforgettable views. For adrenaline enthusiasts, the challenging Izalco Volcano is a unique experience. The short distance allows visitors to explore Lake Coatepeque, the Route of Flowers, and relax on Los Cóbanos Beach.

We await you with open arms in the land of hosts!
Visit elsalvador.travel for more information


GUATEMALA

Maya Trails

Maya Trails – Flavourful Guatemala

The cuisine and culinary traditions of the ancient Mayans were diverse. They were hunters and fishers while also growing their own food. Mayans’ most traditional dishes use a wide variety of ingredients including staples such as corn and cacao, but Spanish colonization brought change to the region. Spaniards introduced not only a new religion and lifestyle, but also new flavours and ingredients. They also introduced alcohol, resulting in Guatemala producing one of the world’s finest rums. Your travellers can delve in to the ancient and modern of Guatemala’s food story with Maya Trails new ‘Flavourful Guatemala’ adventure. From cacao tastings and cooking classes to market visits and a rum tasting, they will discover the fusion of flavours that is Guatemala’s new culinary identity.


MEXICO

Journey Mexico

Journey Mexico is now B-Corp Certified

Journey Mexico is proud to be a certified B-Corporation as of October 2023. This designation reflects our team’s unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the world while delivering exceptional travel experiences to our clients.

By operating professionally and with transparency, Journey Mexico showcases the best of Mexico, whilst demonstrating that tourism can be a force for good and drive positive impact on the environment and in local communities, when approached in the right way.


The Los Cabos Tourism Board

New Los Cabos Brand Ambassador

Los Cabos’ Brand Ambassador, Diana Flores, is devoted to sharing the untold stories, local encounters, and secret treasures that await intrepid travellers in this breathtaking region.

She not only shows her love of Mexico as she wears the country’s colours as captain of the national flag football team but also in her unwavering commitment to promoting its splendours to travellers.

Diana’s outstanding career in flag football, where she commands the field as a skilled quarterback, is a testament to her athletic prowess as well as her exceptional leadership. These qualities seamlessly transition into her role as an ambassador for Los Cabos, where she showcases the destination’s unparalleled beauty and cultural treasures with the same unwavering dedication.


PANAMA

Vapues Travel

Panama travel disruptions

Over the last weeks Panama has seen extensive road closures, with significant disruptions of services. At moment of writing most attractions remain open and flights are unaffected. All our in-county clients are enjoying their Panama holidays. Of course, we continuously assess the impact of possible roadblocks on daily operations, providing alternative arrangements where necessary. For questions about confirmed reservations, please do not hesitate to send us an e-mail at info@vapues.com

It was great seeing many of you again around WTM, at the Nicaragua stand, catching up and sharing product updates. We have seen a regained interest in travel to Nicaragua and are currently working on tailored 2024/2025 product for some of our customers. For a comprehensive overview of the different destinations, hotels, and experiences, please have a look at our website.


PERU

Amazonas Explorer

Peru’s Tree Planting Festival is BACK

The Peruvian festival dedicated to reforestation in the Lares Valley, Queuña Raymi, is coming up quickly, and we’re raising money to ensure that we can plant as many trees as possible this year. This festival not only helps with conservation- both stability of land and clean water- it also helps remote indigenous communities with important jobs and valuable income.

If you would like to donate, you can do so HERE

 


PromPeru

5 Peruvian towns were recognized among the Best Tourism Villages by the UNWTO

his 2023, the World Tourism Organization honoured Chacas, Chavín de Huántar, Paucartambo, Pozuzo, and Taquile as the Best Tourism Villages in the World. This recognition acknowledges their importance in fostering community development and welfare and emphasizes the substantial impact of tourism as an engine for progress.

Out of 260 submissions from more than 60 countries, these towns shone brightly, showcasing their remarkable dedication to comprehensive sustainable tourism, encompassing economic, social, and environmental aspects. Furthermore, they are prominent models of rural tourist destinations that cherish and actively promote their local treasures.


Metropolitan Touring Peru

Launch of our new Peru Highlights list

Peru’s 2024 Highlights by Metropolitan Touring

As the timeless allure of Peru continues to captivate, we unfold new and trendy experiences in our main destinations that you cannot miss in this upcoming 2024.

Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in South America’s premier sustainable restaurant in Lima: Limaná; have a golden dining experience in Cusco’s Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, or explore the Amazon on cruises with a celebrated local chef. For avid explorers, we suggest exclusive glamping in Colca Valley and discovering the Pink City in Puno. This is just a part of the list waiting to be uncovered! Contact our Experts through our email: info@metropolitan-touring.com.pe. More about MT HERE


Setours Handcrafted Journeys

Machu Picchu Ticket Sales Update

Securing Machu Picchu tickets is challenging, often requiring a minimum 40-day advance purchase. For last-minute options, 1000 of the 4044 daily tickets are available in person on-site at the Ministry of Culture office in Aguas Calientes. Travelers must register, and obtain a number for ticket purchase. These tickets can be used on the next day only. Ongoing discussions about potentially eliminating in-person sales persist, but for now, the daily sale of 1000 tickets continues as agreements are sought for the best approach. Check out our post about all things Machu Picchu to make the most of your visit to this iconic site HERE.


Peru Empire

Embark on a journey to uncover Peru’s hidden gems, recently lauded by the UNWTO for outstanding villages.

Chacas, nestled in the Cordillera Blanca, features the Baroque-style Sanctuary of Mama Ashu, pre-Inca sites, and lively local festivals. In Chavín de Huantar, explore an Andean village renowned for intricately carved stone structures, a pre-Columbian marvel with zoomorphic ornamentation.

Paucartambo, the Southern gem, captivates with its folkloric charm, preserving architecture, traditions, and cloud forest biodiversity. Peru’s first Austrian settler colony, Pozuzo, harmoniously blends Austro-German heritage with central jungle communities. Finally, Taquile, on Lake Titicaca, stands as a guardian of natural resources and ancestral textile weaving.

Immerse yourself in these authentic, culturally rich, and sustainable destinations, unlocking Peru’s hidden beauty with Peru Empire’s curated itineraries. For more information, contact travel@pec.pe


Tropic DMC

Holiday travel in Peru

The holiday season is here and as the hustle and bustle rises to a crescendo, it might be time to escape! We have space available for your travelers in Peru where they can experience the magic of the season in a new light.

Guests can explore Colca Canyon, eat their way through Arequipa, hike in the Andes, ring in the new year in Lima and much more during this holiday season. Do remember that it is critical to book Machu Picchu early as tickets sell out in advance. Contact us for availability and to plan your travelers’ holiday escape!

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