GLOBAL: Accor recently announced a new strategic partnership with JHRA in Japan to renovate and rebrand the Daiwa Resorts portfolio into Grand Mercure and Mercure hotels that will offer uniquely local experiences. The agreement will double Accor's current portfolio in Japan, adding 23 properties and over 6,000 rooms. Conversion of the hotels will occur throughout 2024, after which the properties will operate under the aforementioned Accor brands.
NATIONAL: Air Canada recently announced new features to its products and services, adding more comfort and convenience to its onboard travel experience. The upgrades include expanded in-flight food and beverage offerings to suit a variety of needs and tastes, more family-friendly options in the airline's in-flight entertainment library, as well as additional advances to the Air Canada app. These updates are the latest made by the airline as part of its More to Travel initiative, a series of ongoing improvements underway across its travel products and services.
KELOWNA, B.C.: As the peak of Canadian cherry season gets underway, so will the first Canadian Cherry Month, taking place now through Aug. 15. The theme this year is "Buy Fresh, Buy Canadian!" The goal is to recognize the significant contributions of British Columbia cherry producers to the Canadian agriculture industry and the economy. The occasion invites all Canadians and visitors to ask retail grocers for sweet Canadian cherries this season.
MONTREAL: Montreal continues to hold the top spot in hosting international association events in the Americas. For the sixth consecutive year, the International Meetings Statistics Report, published by the Union of International Associations, has named Montreal one of the world's leading business destinations. With 90 events of this kind held in Montreal by 2022—mostly at the Palais des congrès but also at certain hotels and universities—the city has taken the 12th spot in a global ranking led by Brussels.
VICTORIA, B.C.: Porter Airlines will operate in Victoria starting Sept. 20. The airline announced it will provide service daily between Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Victoria International Airport (YYJ) with the new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft. They are up to 65% quieter and up to 25% cleaner than previous-generation aircraft. The passenger-focused design features only aisle or window seating for every passenger, with no middle seats.
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