LATA Members’ Newsletter – April 2024

REGION-WIDE/MULTI-DESTINATION

Aqua Expeditions

Aqua Expeditions’ Small Luxury Cruises: The Perfect Setting for a Romantic Getaway

Embarking on a new journey as newlyweds with Aqua Expeditions, traversing the meandering rivers of the Peruvian Amazon or discovering the iconic Galapagos Islands is truly a magical experience. Let us usher you into a magical chapter of your client’s life with an unforgettable voyage where they will enjoy special amenities:

• Special turndown service
• Complimentary Sparkling Wine
• Honeymoon cake
• Romantic serenade by the crew
• Private dinner
• Complimentary 30-minute massage (available only on Aria Amazon and Aqua Nera)

See the honeymoon flyer HERE

Access our Agent Portal today to check availability HERE.

Intrepid Travel

Latin America growth strategy & tour

Intrepid Travel co-founder, Geoff Manchester, has just concluded a tour of Latin America to promote the company’s 2030 Strategy, which includes significant investment and growth across the region. He visited Intrepid’s DMC teams in Peru, Ecuador, Colombia and Costa Rica to share his vision for the future, driven by the notion that in a time of increasing isolation and conflict, the world needs more Intrepid people.

A highlight of the tour was the official opening of Casa Intrepid, the company’s new office and customer hub in the heart of Cusco, where staff and travellers will come together under one Intrepid roof to connect in a place they can call home.

South American Tours DMC

SAT Boutique – Immersive Travel Experiences with a Twist

South American Tours’ Boutique Experiences offer immersive travel for adventurous souls. These tours combine iconic landmarks with hidden gems, encouraging cultural and natural exploration. Accommodation in boutique hideaways promises personalised service and unique charm. Whether travelling solo or in small groups, guests are led by expert guides committed to sustainability and authenticity. The sensory journeys are curated with extended local stays and carefully selected activities to deliver unforgettable encounters and insights.

Check out the latest SAT news for boutique travel inspiration and subscribe to our monthly newsletter HERE.

For more information contact us: sales@southamericantours.com

Condor Travel

News about the launch of Condor Link

Welcome to Condor Link! In the ever-evolving world of tourism, Condor Travel stays ahead, offering flexibility and adaptability. With our recent rebranding and website redesign, we introduce Condor Link, enhancing client experiences and streamlining operations for trade partners. Our Agent Hub provides exclusive resources, making selling easier and more efficient. From webinars to destination updates, everything is at your fingertips. Our newly launched Online Tariff simplifies pricing across time zones. Despite our digital leap, personalized service remains unchanged. Our clients can always reach our sales team for dedicated assistance. Condor Link empowers clients and partners, ensuring confident and efficient sales.

Explore its benefits and stay tuned for Online Tariff 2.0, delivering more to our valuable clients worldwide.

TRIPS SOUTHAMERICA DMC

Sustainability

Travelling is an adventure that extends beyond mere exploration of new places.
It’s a commitment to respecting and preserving our world and its diverse cultures. That’s why at Trips America, we’ve created a responsible traveler’s guide that underscores the importance of sustainable practices during each of our passengers’ experiences on the continent. It provides tools to exercise respect for cultural diversity, environmental care, cultural heritage protection, and local community development.

We recognize that the travel experience is holistic, where every action matters. With these tools, a unique, comprehensive, and, above all, more integrated experience is generated, where each traveller contributes positively to the world they explore.

Say Hueque Journeys

We won GOLD at the WTM Latin America 2024

For the second consecutive year, our ‘Our plan is to PLANT’ initiative and its aim to plant 100,000 trees were honoured with the GOLD AWARD at the World Travel Market Latin America Responsible Tourism Awards, held from April 15th to 17th in São Paulo, Brazil. We took the top spot in the ‘Best Initiatives for Climate Change Mitigation’ category.

We believe that embracing nature is the ultimate adventure, and we’re thrilled to play our part in restoring biodiversity, empowering local communities, and giving back to the landscapes we love to explore.
Currently, we’ve already planted over 80,000 native trees in Patagonia, edging ever closer to our goal.

Discover more about our initiative HERE

SERVICES AND SUPPORT

Trust My Travel

Trust My Travel are attending LATA Expo

Mark your calendars as Trust My Travel gear up to attend the upcoming LATA Expo, from June 24th to 26th.

Trust My Travel offers a unique global travel payment solution with built-in insolvency protection. With a focus on strengthening connections and fostering innovation within the travel industry, their participation underscores their commitment to global engagement.

Set against the beautiful backdrop of De Vere Beaumont Estate in Old Windsor, LATA Expo promises a dynamic platform for industry leaders to converge, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities.

Meet the Trust My Travel team to discuss your financial protection needs.

ANTARCTICA

Antarctica21

Promotions for season 2024-25

Antarctica21 offers three special promotions for the upcoming season 2024-25:

1) We have launched a rare “Explorers Promotion” that offers exceptional savings on our March 2-9, 2025 departure aboard the vessel Magellan Explorer. Reservations confirmed before May 31, 2024 will receive a $5,000 USD per person rate reduction.

2) A partial extension of our “2024-25 Antarctic Travel Credit promotion” is now in effect, offering savings of $1,500 USD per person on reservations confirmed by June 30, 2024 for selected Ocean Nova vessel departures.

3) Our 2024-25 Sea Voyages Early Booking Promotion offering with savings of $1,000 USD per person has been extended and is available on selected departures for reservations confirmed by June 30, 2024.

For more information and to receive the marketing material, please contact nkrumrey@antarctica21.com.

Pure! Travel Group

Pure! Antarctica: Practical Guide for your next Cruise

Check out our latest insights for onboard travel experiences to Antarctica. Navigating on a cruise brings an exclusive opportunity to delve into the heart of Antarctica’s enchanting wilderness with top-end comfort and a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities. Learn more about our recommended cruise ships, with a high focus on sustainable travel: Ocean Endeavour, Ocean Nova, Ocean Victory, and Ocean Albatros. We ensure your travel experience is as smooth as possible with tailor-made itineraries according to your needs.

Find out more in our full article HERE.

ARGENTINA

Estancia Los Potreros

Sustainability at Los Potreros

Sustainability in travel is thankfully a growing importance within the industry. LosPots, having produced its own energy via solar and wind generation for over twenty years, now turns its attention to its own food production and the need for single use plastics. We are working closely alongside our chefs to develop a menu which will focus more on the foods that are produced on the farm, are in season or are sourced locally.

In the 2023/24 season we have already removed all plastic bottle drinks from our shopping list. A new water filtering system has helped us achieve this goal.

ARGENTINA TRAVEL PARTNERS

DISCOVERING NEW OPTIONS IN ARGENTINA

With a very successful summer season behind us, we are already starting preparations for the coming one.

General Manager Matt Gomez is currently visiting Iguazu, Mendoza and its wineries and Calafate and surrounding glaciers, to update our product knowledge and pricing, and discover new options, such as a new wine-blending experience in Mendoza.

We will share the results of his explorations soon!

BOLIVIA

CRILLON TOURS S.A.

On April 9th, Crillon Tours celebrated its 66 Anniversary pioneering tourism in Bolivia, allowing visitors to give a glimpse into a world untouched by time, but with a personalized service; our comfortable Campers in Uyuni salt Flats, Hotels and Hydrofoil navigation on Lake Titicaca and a 24/7 Duty Manager watching every service, everything appreciated by our guests.

Each year we create new appealing products, now “High Altitude Wines Route & Singani Route in Tarija”, gaining important international awards; “The Coffee route in Yungas” going down towards the Amazon basin nearby La Paz and the Jesuit Missions launched by 5 countries, being Bolivia the only fabulous Intact Missions.
Bolivia deserves to be visited for the fascination of tourists.

Please contact us to create a tailored made program for you.

BRAZIL

EMBRATUR

Experience the essence of Bossa Nova rhythm by exploring the iconic Ipanema Beach

Recently ranked as the world’s second-best beach by Lonely Planet, Ipanema Beach epitomizes Rio’s vibrant culture.

It attracts locals (known as “cariocas”) and visitors with its 3-km stretch of golden sands, clear blue waters, and breathtaking sunsets against Dois Irmãos Hill. Immortalized in Tom Jobim’s classic song “The Girl from Ipanema,” this neighborhood showcases Rio’s diverse lifestyle, featuring trendy boutiques, upscale eateries, and luxurious apartments.

The Bossa Nova Walking Tour offers a three-hour journey led by a talented guide and musician, exploring Bossa Nova’s musical heritage. Key locations in Ipanema and Copacabana associated with the genre’s birth and legendary figures like Tom Jobim, Vinícius de Moraes, and João Gilberto are highlighted. Immerse yourself in the cultural ambiance of 1950s-60s Rio, where Bossa Nova thrived in its most glamorous era. https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/worlds-best-beaches

CHILE

Turavion

El Yeso Dam – New trekking route near Santiago de Chile

Nestled in the Andes Mountains near Cajón del Maipo, about 100 kilometers east of Santiago, the El Yeso Dam offers a serene retreat from urban life. Its striking turquoise-blue waters are framed by majestic peaks and rugged landscapes, captivating visitors with their beauty. As one of the protected natural parks in the metropolitan area, El Yeso hosts Santiago’s largest freshwater reservoirs, including the El Yeso reservoir and the nearby Negra lagoon. The route to Negra lagoon, now open for tourism, provides an immersive experience in nature.

With enhanced safety measures and visitation protocols, El Yeso Natural Park ensures the preservation of its ecosystem while promoting environmental education initiatives. It stands as a picturesque destination where visitors can connect with Chile’s awe-inspiring natural beauty.

More information: incoming@turavion.com | www.turavion-incoming.com

BirdsChile

Our New Adventure

Thinking about your new adventure in Chile?

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our latest trip: Three Lakes Crossing in North Patagonia!

This exclusive trekking adventure connects three lakes and three volcanoes through off-the-beaten trails in the Lakes District region.

Join us for four days of deep connection to nature and the pioneer families of these remote lands, promising a life-changing active experience. Bookings for 2025 – 2026 season are open for registration!

BirdsChile is a certified B Corporation with a focus on sustainability and travel for re-wilding. We’ve been crafting carefully travel experiences since 2009.

For more information, please contact nicole@birdschile.com

Hotel Las Majadas

Hotel Product

Hotel Las Majadas offers a serene escape amidst the Andes, showcasing the beauty of the Maipo Valley. Guests can explore lush trails, witness diverse flora and fauna, and marvel at glacier views. The hotel provides access to Chile’s esteemed wineries, inviting guests to partake in the winemaking process and sample the finest wines. The Park offers tranquil walks, delightful picnics, and refreshing bike rides amidst a diverse plant landscape.

With over a thousand species changing hues with the seasons, each room boasts a mesmerizing view of nature’s splendour against the majestic Andes backdrop, offering a perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.

travelArt

Puma Photo Safari in Torres del Paine National park

Wildlife enthusiasts visiting Chile are increasingly interested in observing pumas in their natural habitat, contributing to ecotourism and raising awareness about the importance of protecting them.

With travelArt, visitors can enjoy an exciting adventure of exploration and discovery in the area of Chilean Patagonia with the highest concentration of pumas. This excursion is ideal for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. You will see pumas and other animals in their natural habitat, take in the beautiful Patagonian landscapes, and learn more about puma conservation. This adventure with expert local guides will start very early in the morning, typically around 5 am during the summer, allowing you to witness the sunrise while awaiting updates from the puma trackers who will guide you to these majestic creatures.

More information: info@travelart.com | www.travelart.com

Las Torres Patagonia

Las Torres Patagonia signs the Glasgow Declaration

Las Torres Patagonia, joins the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action and Tourism, aligning with COP26’s global commitments. Located in Torres del Paine National Park, the company pledges to halve emissions by 2030 and achieve net zero before 2050.

The CEO Josian Yaksic underscores the firm commitment, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030. Other pledges include annual public reporting and collaboration to inspire other organizations and express confidence in their responsible commitment, aligning with IUCN’s category V. Witnessed by Jeremy Sampson (the co-author of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action and Tourism, launched at COP26 in Scotland) at the “Reimagina Turismo” event, the signing signifies Las Torres Patagonia’s strategy focuses on preserving local biodiversity, aligning with their decades-long commitment to conservation and awareness.

Southbound

Southbound’s annual company retreat 2024

We are back from our annual company retreat, where we reunited the team from across Chile in the mystical Elqui Valley.

Amidst its sunny northern charm, we explored picturesque towns, sampled pisco at local distilleries, and trekked through the beautiful landscapes of the valley.

As the sun went down, we marveled at the world’s clearest skies. We toasted to our successful season, engaged in team-building activities, and recharged for the future season. Cheers!

COLOMBIA

Colombian Journeys

TRAVEL TO SAN ANDRES, PARADISE IN THE CARIBBEAN, WITH COLOMBIAN JOURNEYS

400 miles north of the Colombian mainland lie the paradisiacal islands of San Andrés, Providencia and Santa Catalina.

Declared a World Biosphere Reserve “Seaflower” in 2000 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and voted the best sun and beach destination in the World Travel Awards in 2014, 2015 and 2019, this archipelago is known for its multiculturalism, with English, Spanish and pirate influences; it is also the secret of the 7 shimmering colours of its sea, making it a popular place for water sports and home to one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in South America.

To travel to San Andrés is to enter an area of friendly people and nature to the rhythm of reggae, soca and calypso. Read more HERE

COSTA RICA

TAM Travel Corporation

Whale-watching in Costa Rica

One of the most wholesome, humbling and sought-after experiences in Costa Rica is whale watching. The largest concentration with the longest-lasting presence is that of Humpback Whales, in the South Pacific waters of Costa Rica. The Marino Ballena National Park, Drake Bay, and Golfo Dulce are the most popular whale-watching locations.

The South Pacific region is the most biologically diverse marine habitat in Costa Rica, ideal for whale-watching. The most frequently found species are the California Humpback, Antarctic Humpback, and North Atlantic St Lawrence Humpback. Costa Rica has the world’s longest whale season, allowing nearly year-round access to whale-watching.

Come to Costa Rica, and partake in one of the most meaningful experiences amidst the unmatched beauty of the South Pacific with TAM Travel Corporation!

Journey Costa Rica

New Product

Our relentless in-country exploration has unveiled some remarkable people and places that we love sharing with our travellers. One of our favourite elements of Costa Rica`s glorious landscapes is the coastline, and the endless ways you can explore it.

Watching sunset colours wash over a secret wild beach; collaborating with turtle conservationists on remote shores; jumping into deep blue waters from a private yacht anchored in a hidden tropical bay – it’s moments like these that our guests will remember forever. Exercising creativity is at the heart of the process when we’re crafting Journey Costa Rica’s travel experiences.

ECUADOR/GALAPAGOS

Aqua Expeditions

Rates of Galapagos Islands

Aqua Mare rates unchanged in light of Galapagos Islands’ fee increase
Starting August 2024, the Galapagos Islands’ entry fees for international visitors will double from US$100 to US$200. This measure is being undertaken to ensure the continued preservation of Galapagos’ fragile ecosystem.

For guests exploring the Galapagos Islands on board Aqua Mare, the entrance fees are – and will continue to be – covered by Aqua Expeditions. We are pleased to announce that our published rates will remain unchanged even in light of the upcoming fee increase.

Tropic Travel

New Product

On this 30th anniversary of Tropic’s operations, we are returning to our roots and relaunching some of our most popular trips. One of them is our 7D/6N Galapagos Island Hopping that includes Santa Cruz, Floreana and Isabel islands. We crafted these land-based program to allow travellers to be in contact with the local people, take their time learning a place and mixing it all with soft adventure in the water and on the land. We provide an unforgettable exploration of the archipelago highlights where your clients can witness the Galapagos’ amazing flora and fauna from the first moment.

We offer daily departures for Island Hopping shared services and private services can also be arranged. If you want to learn more about this program please reach to Maru at mariaeugenia.dealiaga@tropiceco.com

Montemar Eco Luxury Villas

Every sip supports survival

Montemar’s organic and biodynamic coffee plantation does more than just brew a perfect cup—it helps restore the natural habitat of the Galapagos Giant Tortoises. As these majestic creatures roam freely around our grounds, each coffee purchase contributes to studying and preserving their precious ecosystem.

Let your clients discover a Galapagos ‘from within’. We have plenty of space for this summer and autumn, so don’t be shy and enquire!

You can contact your supplier or us at ventas@montemar.ec , or check us out at www.montemar.ec

Anakonda Amazon Cruises

2024 SELECTED DEPARTURES

Take advantage of our 2024 Selected Departures from April to September with Anakonda Amazon Cruises. By confirming bookings by June 30, 2024, your clients will have an ideal opportunity to experience the best of the Ecuadorian Amazon with exceptional benefits.

To facilitate your planning, we invite you to explore our specially selected departure dates applicable to this offer at the following link: 2024 selected departures. Additionally, we have prepared a downloadable flyer to help promote this offer to your clients.

Via Natura DMC

We are thrilled to announce that Hermes – Galapagos First Ultra-Luxury Mega Catamaran – has joined the esteemed ranks of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the most desirable community of independently spirited hotels in the world.

As a beacon of luxury and adventure in the Galapagos archipelago, Hermes promises discerning travellers an unparalleled experience of exploration and indulgence. From its sleek design to its world-class amenities, including spacious suites, gourmet dining, and top-tier service, every aspect of Hermes is crafted to exceed expectations.

Set sail on this exceptional vessel and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Galapagos while enjoying the unparalleled comfort and sophistication synonymous with Small Luxury Hotels worldwide.

EL SALVADOR

Embassy of El Salvador

THE IMPOSING AND MAJESTIC NATURAL BEAUTY OF EL SALVADOR IS WAITING FOR YOU.

Despite its size, El Salvador has a diverse ecosystem, from rainforests to mangroves, preserved in several nature reserves. These protected areas offer refuge to a number of species, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of El Salvador.

In its western front, visitors can delight in the beauty of El Imposible, with more than 3,966 hectares of lush vegetation, Montecristo, a paradise for birdwatchers, as well as the Apaneca-Ilamatepec Biosphere Reserve, and Los Volcanoes National Park.

These reserves offer unique experiences, such as reconnecting with nature and learning about conservation. In an increasingly urbanized world, these reserves are treasures worth exploring and protecting. Don’t miss your chance and visit them in this Land of Hosts.

MEXICO

Journey Mexico

New Product

Send your travellers on an authentic Day of the Dead experience in the UNESCO World Heritage city of San Miguel de Allende. Guided by one of our local experts, visitors will go deeper into the history, traditions, and meaning of a cherished celebration that is as vibrant as it is profound.

Our newly developed 6 Night/7 Day itinerary is interwoven with cultural immersion and exchange to give your clients a genuine experience of this legendary festival.

NICARAGUA

Vapues Travel

Cosigüina Volcano

Cosigüina Volcano is in the northwest corner of the country, with 859 meters and vast slopes teemed with flora and fauna, it has one on the most amazing viewpoints, where you can admire Honduras and El Salvador, besides the marvellous Gulf of Fonseca.

The area can be visited either from Nicaragua, or from El Salvador with Ruta del Golfo.

For information see: www.rutadelgolfo.com

PERU

PROMPERU

Discover Peru and its Sustainable experiences!

For many years, Peruvian tourism has been working in sustainability. With the cooperation of the government, private companies, and non-governmental organizations, natural resources are being protected, cultural heritage preserved, and fair economic development is being encouraged.

Visiting Peru is an opportunity to witness the sustainability travel movement in action because the Peruvian culture and respect for the environment is so well ingrained here.

PROMPERU invites you to share with your travel agent and travel designer partners our professional training platform www.peruagent.com where they will find engaging and inspiring content about the destination and our recently developed chapter “Sustainable Experiences”.

Please do not hesitate to contact PROMPERU if you require further information.

LimaTours

Deep within the Andean wilderness, a hidden trail invites adventurers and history enthusiasts to discover its secrets. Lizbeth Llanos, Destination Specialist at LimaTours, explores with resilience, uncovering the Inca legacy in the Peruvian Andes.

Choquequirao, known as Machu Picchu’s “Sacred Sister” and the last bastion of the Incas, stands proud above the Apurimac River Canyon. Despite its grandeur, only 30% of this archaeological treasure has been revealed. Three times the size of Machu Picchu, Choquequirao’s ruins and temples hold untold tales that await intrepid explorers to discover them.