This month’s travel news: Exploring the world responsibly, mastering cordon chaos and a new way to hit the slopes

Tendency

Become greener

Luxury travel advisor group Virtuoso has released its trend forecast for 2023 and sustainability is high on the list. In a survey, 70% of customers said traveling in a greener way improves their experiences, and 74% are willing to pay more for this type of trip if they know how the funds will be used. But the industry continues to struggle with its green goals. Some European countries, such as Germany and Spain, are considering banning short-haul domestic flights, while France has already done so. How you can explore responsibly was a topic of discussion at Whistler’s first cultural symposium last fall. It helps when travelers find ways to connect with the “core values” of the place they’re visiting, said Claire Ruddy, executive director of AWARE, a community group that works to protect the natural environment of Whistler, during the event. More than half of emissions in Whistler come from vehicle use, so travelers might consider carpooling and/or electric vehicles, and bicycling in town. Helicopter hiking and skiing have a noticeable impact on the climate through carbon emissions, so opt for trails that are already marked out and offer stunning views. And look for ways to contribute to the community, like getting involved in beach cleanups or trail restoration.

Business

Price verification

Airbnb received its fair share of criticism last year as travelers, delighted to be back on the road, were hit with the shock of host stickers charging cleaning fees, sometimes equivalent to one night’s stay . These fees are set at the discretion of the host and are in addition to the service fee, and in many countries the full cost is not revealed in searches. A traveler does not know the total cost until checkout. So, last month, the booking platform implemented “total price display”, which will display the total price, including fees and taxes, from the start of a search. Dennis Schaal of Skift, an industry news site that covers the travel industry, points out that even with this change, booking platforms are still struggling to ensure price transparency. Both Booking.com and VRBO show tax-free nightly rates in searches.

Retail

Shopping at destination

Canadian bag and luggage brand Herschel Supply Co. has just opened its first Toronto store in the Eaton Centre. In addition to its well-known line of backpacks, the store will feature the brand’s apparel, Herschel Supply Uniform, and luggage options. “While backpacks have been our bread and butter…luggage continues to be a growing category for us,” says CEO and Co-Founder Lyndon Cormack. As with the other outlets, a section of the store is used as exhibition space for local artists with new shows appearing every three to six months. The first artist in this space is Jacquie Comrie. A mental health advocate, Comrie uses bright and bold work to explore the relationship between color and emotion. “Creative education and support for the arts has always been important to us. Jacquie has designed a limited edition tote bag that we are offering at our Toronto store while supplies last,” says Cormack.

Herschel Supply Co., Toronto Eaton Centre, 220 Yonge Street, herschel.ca.

Obsession

Case study

Experience has taught me that everything in its place makes life – and zipping up your suitcase – a whole lot easier. But the one thing I’ve never been able to tidy up is the multiple charging cords I travel with (computer, phone, headphones, Fitbit, etc.), which is why I’m drawn to the Tech Case from Away. It’s a small suitcase in your suitcase, designed to hold cords, chargers, adapters and other accessories.

The Tech Case, $65 at Away (awaytravelcom).

Investment purchase

This is the ticket

The Eastern Townships of Quebec are bringing back their L’est Go pass, which gives skiers quick and easy access to four mountains in the region – Sutton, Orford, Bromont and Owl’s Head – while saving up to 32% on admission. Valid for skiing anytime (days, nights and weekends), the pass can be for as few as two lift tickets up to eight, with no blackout dates. The mountains have also beefed up their technology infrastructure this year, which means pass holders won’t have to go to customer service to check in on arrival. They can simply head for an elevator at each station.

L’est Go ski pass, from $148 up to lesgo.ca.