PAXnews - On Location: China with TripOppo; Inside Hyatt Vivid’s D.R. debut; Belize cruise calls continue amid emergency

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Monday, November 9, 2026

PAX On Location: From Terracotta Warriors to tea fields – Exploring China’s diversity with TripOppo

China isn’t a one-dimensional destination. From the ancient ranks of Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors to the tea fields of Hangzhou, the silk traditions of Suzhou and Shanghai’s futuristic skyline, the second half of the TripOppo China FAM trip revealed a destination of striking contrasts.

On Location: Hyatt Vivid makes its Dominican Republic debut with a fresh adults-only experience

Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana brings beachside art workshops, a hidden speakeasy and an adults-only atmosphere to the Dominican Republic. PAX explores the 467-room all-inclusive, from its dining options and wellness offerings to Vantage Club perks, with insights into Canadian demand and what travel advisors should know before booking their clients.

Belize cruise calls continue amid regional state of emergency

Cruise calls to Belize are continuing despite a state of emergency affecting parts of the country, while Global Affairs Canada is advising Canadian visitors to exercise heightened caution. Read to find out why.

Porter wins USA Today’s Best Economy Class for third straight year

Porter Airlines has been named Best Economy Class in the USA Today Readers’ Choice Awards for the third consecutive year, ranking first among 20 international airlines.

Monday Minute: Samantha Bosca of Travel Makes Memories

“I think we are going to see a big shift in the next few years,” says Samantha Bosca of Travel Makes Memories of AI’s growing role. In today's Monday Minute, she discusses staying connected to clients, demand for European all-inclusives and plans to expand her travel business into the U.S. market.

Videotorial: The Official Caribbean Vacation of The Elf on the Shelf®

Holiday magic meets island vibes! The Elf on the Shelf Santaverse™ returns to Beaches® Resorts for the official Scout Elf Caribbean vacation.

Singapore Airlines unveils S$2B long-haul cabin overhaul

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has unveiled new long-haul cabin accoutrements, featuring private first-class suites with sliding doors and redesigned seats across all four cabins. Read about it here.

Hurtigruten opens 2028/29 bookings with expanded Signature program & reduced deposits

Hurtigruten has opened bookings for its 2028/29 season, adding three permanent itineraries to its Signature program. Travellers can book eligible voyages with a reduced 10 per cent deposit until November 16, 2026. The season includes regional Explorer voyages, coastal Line sailings and the Original Coastal Express between Bergen and Kirkenes.

Sunquest cuts vacation price protection to $19.99 per person

Sunquest is offering a 60 per cent discount on its Sunquest Protection Factor (SPF) program, reducing the price to $19.99 per person for eligible bookings made by Nov. 30.

Oceania highlights Vancouver departures in 2027 Alaska programme

Oceania Cruises will be scenic cruising through the Inside Passage, Holkham Bay Glacier Fjords or at Hubbard Glacier. Check it out!

Naples airport closed through Nov. 30 for runway works

Naples-Capodichino International Airport is closed through November 30, 2026, for runway and taxiway rehabilitation. Some flights have moved to Salerno Airport, with special bus connections from Naples. Travel advisors should confirm clients’ flight arrangements directly with airlines and allow additional time for ground transfers during the month-long closure in Italy.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Appreciation night: TTAND puts people, technology and supplier partnerships in spotlight at Toronto gathering

The room was packed at the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto on Thursday evening (Nov. 5) for The Travel Agent Next Door’s (TTAND) VIP Supplier Partner Event, where TTAND thanked the suppliers behind its success. During the presentation, leadership shared what’s coming next, from AI-powered tools to new ways of finding clients for advisors.

Explora targets Canadian growth with expanded fleet & trade support

Explora Journeys’ Chris Austin speaks with PAX about the brand’s growing Canadian business and opportunities for travel advisors. From new sailings to attracting luxury hotel clients, Austin shares insights on Canadian demand, repeat bookings, advisor resources and the fleet expansion bringing more destinations within reach for clients.

“The perfect extension to New York City”: Long Island makes its pitch to Canadian advisors

Discover Long Island met with Canadian travel advisors and media in Toronto yesterday (Nov. 5) to highlight the destination’s appeal as an add-on to New York City. International sales specialist Alfredo Gonzalez outlined food and wine experiences, beaches, luxury stays and group travel opportunities, while emphasizing the importance of welcoming Canadian travellers back.