The Bahamas’ tourism product is expected to receive a boost early next year from Russia. Prime Minister Perry Christie recently made the announcement that, come January 2014, there will be direct charter flights between The Bahamas and Russia.

Air Canada Rouge, a budget tour operator owned by the Canadian flag carrier, began operations into Cuba on Saturday with a flight from Toronto to Jardines del Rey. A total of 139 passengers flew on Saturday to Cayo Coco.

At least six U.S. airlines canceled 47 flights into and out of the Mexico City and Toluca airports Thursday after the Popocatepetl volcano spewed ash, steam and glowing rocks, airport officials said. Authorities registered several tremors Thursday at the 17,886-foot (5,450-meter) volcano.