Selling Canada Spring/Summer 2017

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SPRING/SUMMER 2017

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TRAINING FOR THE TRAVEL TRADE

A Bluetoo th your sma travel speaker fo r rtphone c o Destinati on Canad urtesy of a. Comple our Word te search

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CANADA'S BIG BIRTHDAY

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not out!

ROOMS WITH A VIEW Overnight choices with windows on Canada's unrivalled natural beauty

GO YOUR OWN WAY

Explore the country's highways and national and provincial parks in an RV

CREATE A BUCKET LIST

From grizzlies to the Rocky Mountaineer, 10 'unmissable' experiences

PLUS... NEWS, SIX CITIES, QUEBEC FAM TRIP, BACTA AWARDS, CALGARY, CSP PROGRAMME

EXPERIENCE THE CANADIAN ROCKIES BY RAIL Imagine soaking up the vast, untouched beauty of Western Canada from a luxury rail coach while dining on exquisite meals inspired by the wonders unfolding out the windows next to you. A Rocky Mountaineer rail journey through the majestic Canadian Rockies provides unparalleled views of the world’s most spectacular scenery. Indulge your senses as you wind through awe-inspiring landscapes, complemented by rich, historic storytelling, and impeccable service.

Book now to travel in 2017, or plan your luxury rail vacation for 2018. Experience the Canadian Rockies as they were meant to be seen, with Rocky Mountaineer.

Call: 00800 0606 7372 • Email: sales@rockymountaineer.com Visit: agent.rockymountaineer.com or www.rockymountaineer.com

SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

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NEWS

ALTERNATIVE CANADA

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Destination Canada Update The BACTAs News to Use Tour Operator News

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Rooms With a View Cities: Six of Canada's Best Top Ten Bucket list Canada's Parks Touring Canada by RV

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British Columbia Autumn Fam to Québec Canada's 150th Birthday City Profile: Calgary Alberta In Conversation With...

David Goldstein, DC Atlantic Canada Ontario Great Road Trips Online Training Itineraries Destination Canada: Social Media & Competitions

FEATURES

QUICK READS

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FRONT COVER IMAGE: OTTAWA, ISTOCKPHOTO.COM PUBLISHED BY BMI PUBLISHING LTD, SUFFOLK HOUSE, GEORGE ST, CROYDON, SURREY, UK, CR9 1SR T: 020 8649 7233 E: ENQUIRIES@BMIPUBLISHING.CO.UK W: WWW.BMIPUBLISHING.CO.UK PUBLISHER: SALLY PARKER, EDITOR: STEVE HARTRIDGE: ASSISTANT EDITORS: ANDY HOSKINS AND JULIE BAXTER, JOURNALIST: LAURA GELDER, CREATIVE DIRECTOR: MATT BONNER, DESIGNERS: LOUISA HORTON, MONICA NOTARNICOLA, ROSS CLIFFORD, ZOE TARRANT. PRODUCTION MANAGER: CLARE HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR: MARTIN STEADY

SELLING CANADA WINTER 2016/17

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DC WELCOME

Explore in 2017

DC UPDATE NEWS FROM DESTINATION CANADA

Agents invited to DC’s UK tour THIS is a big year for Canada as the country gears up to its 150th birthday on July 1.

And there are lots of ways we will be celebrating in 2017 with Selling Canada readers.

We look forward to seeing many of you at our Keep Exploring Quiz Roadshows in April. For more details on these evenings, and the prizes you could walk away with, see the main story opposite.

Agents interested in attending in any of the cities we are visiting should email destinationcanadatrade@ gmail.com to sign up.

This year is also a Mega FAM year and 60 lucky agents will be joining us in the autumn on one of ELEVEN trips, from Yukon to Newfoundland, with everyone meeting up in Toronto for a BIG final night party.

The Mega FAM takes place September 30 to October 7 and to be in with a chance of joining one of the best FAMs in the industry agents must enrol in our CSP programme at canadaspecialist.co.uk.

A benefit of taking the programme is access to our new travel agent in-store material. We are offering this to every agent who completes the programme.

Happy selling and Keep Exploring!

Adam Hanmer, Manager, Travel Trade, Destination Canada

Help desk Key contacts

Roger Harris: Trade Helpline: 020 7389 9984 Email: destinationcanada trade@gmail.com Training: canadaspecialist.co.uk keepexploring.ca

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SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

DESTINATION CANADA and its destination and product partners are inviting travel agents from Glasgow to Brighton to Keep Exploring in April.

Provinces and territories, airlines, trains, hotel companies and ski resorts will be among those present alongside Destination Canada, all showcasing the best Canada can offer holiday-makers in 2017.

The Canada Roadshow events – in Brighton (April 24), Newcastle (April 25), Glasgow (April 26) and Chester (April 27) – will once again feature the popular Keep Exploring Quiz, with one winner at each destination winning a holiday for two to Canada.

Prizes will include a Rocky Mountaineer trip, travelling in Gold Leaf, and a 12-night holiday taking in three iconic British Columbia destinations:

Vancouver, Whistler and Sun Peaks. Adam Hanmer, Travel Trade Manager at Destination Canada said: “We are looking forward to meeting agents across the UK. Our Keep Exploring Quiz is both fun and

AGENTS are reminded that all British visitors to Canada arriving by air must be in possession of an Electronic Travel Authority (eTA).

Those planning trips must apply in advance of booking their airline tickets.

Destination Canada points out that while an eTA usually takes a maximum of three days to obtain, any applicant with a

‘record’, such as for a drinkdriving offence, will have their applications put into a ‘different pool’, which will likely lengthen the process.

An eTA costs $7.00 and is valid for five years. Purchase is done online at Canada.ca/eTA. Note that any website charging more than $7.00 is not an official government site and should be avoided.

eTAs point way to Canada

informative and offers agents the chance to win a great prize.

“Taking Canada out on the road is a vital part of our Canada Specialist Programme."

Agents should register at:

destinationcanadatrade@gmail.com.

eTA basics • An eTA costs C$7 (£4.16).

• An eTA is valid for five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

• With an eTA travellers can fly to Canada several times without reapplying as long as their eTA and passport remain valid.

• The online application form requires a credit card and a valid email address.

• Travellers can only apply for one person at a time. For example, for a family of three people, they would need to complete and submit the form three times.

• The Government of Canada website at Canada.ca/eTA is the only valid site to apply for an eTA.

BRITISH ANNUAL CANADA TRAVEL AWARDS

2017

A golden night DESTINATION CANADA and its tourism partners honoured the trade and media at the 27th running of the British Annual Canada Travel Awards (BACTA), held at Canada House in London.

Working in partnership with Tourism Yukon, Destination British Columbia, Travel Alberta, Travel Manitoba, Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership and the Atlantic Canada Tourism Partnership, Destination Canada hosted over 110 agents, operators and media at the event which also celebrated the Confederation of Canada 150 years ago this year.

Overseeing proceedings was Destination Canada's Rupert Peters (pictured), Regional Managing Director Core Markets, and Adam Hanmer, Travel Trade Manager.

Both stressed their appreciation for trade and media support and presented awards designed to recognise outstanding sales and promotional successes during 2016.

Claire Moore, Peakes Travel Elite, won Best Travel Agent while First Class Holidays collected Best Tour Operator, as voted by travel Best Tour Operato r

agents. Canadian Sky received the Keep Exploring gong, in recognition of the company’s efforts to go above and beyond in its promotion of Canada through an innovative campaign, adding new Canada product and experiences to its existing programme and embracing the DC Keep Exploring brand.

Manchester-based tailor-made specialist First Class Holidays scooped Best Operator for the 15th time, which came as the company celebrates its 21st anniversary.

Managing Director Paul Ainsworth commented: “This is a truly humbling experience. To be so consistently voted top operator by travel agents is an indication that the values and principles we laid down when we created the company 21 years ago still hold true today.

"Our dedication to high levels of service and total commitment to the independent travel trade continue to be appreciated by our agent partners."

Sharon Mason, 1st Class Holidays st Be vel a Tr nt g A e

Travel Agent: Claire Moore,Peakes Travel

Explore r Award *

Kathryn Glover, Canadian Sky

DISCOVER CANADA FROM COAST TO COAST www.viarail.ca

For more information about VIA Rail visit www.viarail.ca or contact info@viarail.co.uk SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

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news TO USE

Canada's top stories

UK numbers boom as Canada grows

Rocky stars Agents who complete all six modules of Travel Alberta’s new training programme

by May 31 will be in with a chance to win a 10-night ski holiday to the Rockies and flights from British Airways.

The Alberta Specialist Programme includes modules on Alberta’s urban centres, the Canadian Rockies and a look at niche and specialty experiences. travelalberta.com

On the menu Wellington Street in Ottawa will host a 1,000-person, open-air dining experience on August 27. The country’s top chefs will cook up a four-course dinner in the shadow of the iconic Parliament Buildings. The event is part of Canada’s Table, a four-day series of culinary events where celebrity chefs will be featured in local restaurants. www.ottawa2017.ca/ canadas-table

St. John's, NL, appoints its first UK office Canada’s most easterly province now has a UK office for the first time.

Destination St John’s, the tourism marketing agency for St John’s, the capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador, has appointed Leeds-based marketing and communications agency All About The Story to increase its profile among the trade and consumers.

All About The Story is headed up by ex-Aviareps UK head of tourism, Lyndsey Thomas, and ex-Metro travel editor, James Ellis. Thomas said: “The city of St John’s is a melting pot of colour, cuisine, nightlife, history and culture. It is a city on the edge of

nature surrounded by worldclass hiking, breathtaking scenery, whale-watching, birding and the iceberg migration. It appeals to those looking for a short-break, weekend destination or as part of a seven14 day self-drive or escorted touring holiday.

“We are planning extensive training sessions, familiarisation tours and visits by the travel media,” she added.

St John’s is the nearest North American city to Europe, with daily flights from Heathrow (Air Canada), Gatwick (WestJet) and Dublin (WestJet). destinationstjohns.com; email: Lyndsey@allaboutthestory.co.uk

Canada welcomed a bumper crop of tourists in 2016, recording the highest number of visitors since 2002.

The 19,979,334 travellers – including an impressive 17% increase from the UK, to 833,329 – represents the second-best year ever in terms of visitor numbers and fell just 0.4% below that best year at the start of the century.

“This is great news... Canada is open, welcoming, and has something for everyone – and people are seeing that,” commented David Goldstein, Destination Canada’s CEO and President.

"Together with our industry partners we are encouraging travellers to explore Canada and experience a life less ordinary.

"In this the year of Canada’s 150th birthday, I can’t think of a better time to visit the country than right now.” csp.canada.travel/gb

news TO USE

Canada's top stories

Vancouver’s Parq life

Open again Toronto’s The Broadview Hotel, located on Queen and Broadview in an historic 125-year-old building, has been restored and will open as a 58-room boutique hotel this year. The hotel will also feature a restaurant , lobby cafe/bar and a roof terrace. thebroadviewhotel.ca

Vancouver’s downtown entertainment district is set for a major boost later this year with the opening of Parq Vancouver – a hip hospitality development featuring restaurants, conference facilities and gaming.

At the heart of the project are two upmarket Marriott hotels: the 329-room JW Marriott Parq Vancouver and the 188-room Douglas, part of the group’s exclusive Autograph Collection.

The hotels are connected via an elevated 30,000sq ft park, located six storeys up and packed

with indigenous trees and plants.

In addition, Parq Vancouver will feature a casino, and a wide variety of restaurants and lounges. The JW Marriott Parq Vancouver will include a spa and fitness centre while the Douglas offers fire pits and handcrafted cocktails in the park.

Costing CAN$600million, Parq Vancouver is the largest private construction project in British Columbia and sits close to Stanley Park and Chinatown.

Both hotels open in September. marriott.com

Go native The First Nations Kwa’lilas Hotel in Port Hardy, British Columbia, is due to open in April. Facilities include 85 guestrooms, a restaurant, pub and meetings spaces.

Standard rooms start from CAN$140 per night plus tax. kwalilashotel.ca

Trump that The Trump International Hotel & Towers Vancouver has opened in Vancouver’s Golden Mile. It features private condos, Champagne bar and luxury spa. Rates start from CAN$341 a night. trumphotels.com/vancouver

Hyatt Place debuts in Edmonton Canada’s first Hyatt Place has become the first new hotel to open in central Edmonton since 1974.

The 255-room Hyatt Place Edmonton Downtown is located in The Quarters, a flourishing community that is close to the city centre.

The hotel’s location provides easy access to popular shopping

and cultural haunts like the Art Gallery of Alberta, Citadel Theatre, Francis Winspear Centre, Commonwealth Stadium and the New Rogers Place.

Room rates start at CAN$200, with suites from CAN$400.

A second Hyatt Place has been earmarked for West Edmonton. edmontondowntown.place. hyatt.com

Fairmont revamps popular cabins The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in Alberta has begun a major restoration programme of its Signature Cabins.

The CAN $16million refresh will mirror the rustic luxury of the property's Stanley Thompson cabin and its Whistler Cabins.

The recently redesigned fourbedroom Stanley Thompson cabin is equipped with a stone fireplace, three decks, open concept kitching, dining and living areas.

The Whistler Cabins offer spectacular views from oversized windows.

Also in the works are enhanced guest programming for both summer and winter months to build on activities already available at the resort.

Three new events planned for 2017 include a craft beer festival, vintage car rally and a luxury golf event. fairmont.com/jasper

news TO USE

Canada's top stories

Air Transat ups Glasgow capacity

Bistro choice for summer Air Transat has a new Bistro menu for passengers this summer season. From May 1, those travelling from the UK and Ireland to Canada can tuck into a choice of three traditional hot dishes – pasta, chicken and beef – along with salad, a glass of wine or non-alcoholic beverage and dessert. Return flights, which are overnight services, will offer a choice of three sandwiches,. airtransat.co.uk

Air Transat is to increase capacity on services from Glasgow this summer by 12%, 25 years after it started flying from the airport.

The leisure carrier is introducing larger aircraft on its services from Glasgow to Toronto and Vancouver, with most flights to be operated by the airline’s Airbus A330, which feature individual screens and 100 channels of entertainment on demand. This summer out of

Glasgow the airline will fly five times weekly to Toronto and weekly to Vancouver, with up to five connecting flights each week to Montréal, Calgary and Vancouver.

The airline also flies directly from Gatwick to Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary and Montréal; from Manchester to Toronto and Vancouver; from Birmingham to Toronto and from Dublin to Toronto and Montréal. airtransat.co.uk

Fleet upgrade on the way

Air Canada has received its first Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, starting the airline’s fleet renewal programme.

This will be followed in 2019 with the delivery of its first Bombardier C Series.

Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge will launch a new Vancouver-London Gatwick service this year.

aircanada.com/uk

Ski-i Selling Canada Advert 1.qxp_Layout 1 13/03/2017 12:28 Page 1

Huge Savings on 2017/18 Canada Ski Holidays Save up to 50% in Whistler when booked by 31 August 2017

Nature inspires Air Canada look Air Canada’s bold new livery was inspired by the natural wonders of Canada itself, the airline says.

The airline’s fleet of 300 mainline and regional aircraft is being repainted in a black-andwhite design that highlights its iconic red maple leaf ensign, which returns to the tail after an absence of 24 years. "The livery references its wildlife and First Nations heritage,” said an airline spokesperson. Air Canada is 80 years old this year. aircanada.com

WOW goes daily from Gatwick Icelandic low-cost airline WOW air says strong UK demand is behind its decision to increase the frequency of its Toronto and Montréal services.

Currently the carrier flies five times a week to both cities, but will go daily on the routes this spring.

The Gatwick to Toronto Pearson International service will change first, from May 1,

with the flight to Montréal– Trudeau Airport, which goes via Reykjavik, switching from June 13. One-way fares, including taxes and charges, start from £139.99pp.

Skúli Mogensen, founder and CEO of WOW air said, “Canada is a diverse destination, which has been continually rising in popularity for UK travellers.”

Wowair.co.uk

0131 243 8097 www.ski-i.com

NEWS TO USE

CANADA'S TOP STORIES

Premier’s new city breaks

Canada booms for Cosmos BOOKINGS to Canada led the way for Cosmos Tours during the early-year peak booking period.

The touring specialist said the country was the most requested destination through its call centre, and saw an overall increase of 25% year-on-year.

There was a rise in enquiries for holidays from coast to coast, with holidays in the Rockies seeing a 37% rise in bookings. Ex-London departures remained strong but those from Manchester, Newcastle and Scottish airports also drove growth.

Jo Hollidge, Cosmos Tours’ North America Product & Commercial Manager, commented: “There’s a heightened awareness of the appeal of Canada’s spectacular landscapes, national parks and history, and above all, friendliness to visitors. Customers are keen to see as much of the country as possible, and are extending tours with a rail journey or cruise out of Vancouver, following the increasing demand for cruise and stay holidays.

"Our Canada tours plus an Alaska cruise are currently 58% up year on year."

Prices lead in at £1422pp for a 10-day Cities of Eastern Canada tour which includes a private VIP home pick up service, flights, eight nights' accommodation, and a tour director. cosmostours andcruises.co.uk

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SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

Canada on black run BOOKINGS to Canada’s ski resorts proved hugely popular in winter 2016/2017 for Ski Independence.

The country's resorts recorded double-digit growth with Whistler Blackcomb a particular success story: bookings to the British Columbia resort were up more than 35% year-on-year,” the ski specialist said.

The operator's MD, Michael Bennett, said: “A huge part of this growth is down to our travel agent partners who have improved their overall share, justifying the increased activity which we have devoted to the trade with regular in-store visits

and training by Agency Sales Executive, Nicole Graham. We have also hosted dinners, attended trade roadshows and produced special-offer posters specifically designed for agents.”

The healthy bookings trend is continuing for the 2017/18 season, with forward bookings up by around 600%.

Seven nights at the Sun Peaks Grand in January 2018 start from £1118pp. Seven nights at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler start from £1538pp. Both include Air Canada flights and are for a January 15 departure. ski-i.com/travel-agents/latestagent-offers

PREMIER HOLIDAYS’ 2017 Canada brochure features a host of tours and excursions and new short city breaks.

The operator’s new self-drive tours include 'Totem Peaks', from £2,089pp for 14 nights. It takes in the classic Rockies drive to Banff and Jasper and continues north to Prince George and Prince Rupert.

Flights are included in this selfdrive tour.

For its new city breaks, a threenight Montréal Highlights break starts from £869pp with flights, transfers, accommodation, a Heart of Montréal City Tour and a Flavours of the Main tour to sample Montréal's culinary delights. A Vancouver highlights tour starts from £999pp for four nights with flights and transfers. trade.premierholidays.co.uk

Toronto and NYC for H&J HAYES & JARVIS has a sevennight holiday that twins Toronto and New York.

Priced from £995pp, the deal includes two nights at the fourstar Courtyard By Marriott Downtown in Toronto on a room-only basis, followed by five nights at the four-star The Hudson on a room-only basis.

The offer also includes return flights from Heathrow with Delta and a flight between the two cities and is based on a December 15 2017 departure. hayesandjarvis.co.uk

New trekking tours of Canadian west TWO new walking and trekking holidays in Canada's west are now available with Mountain Kingdoms. Introduced to coincide with Canada's 150th birthday celebrations is Gentle Walking Canadian Rockies, taking in the best trails and views of the Rocky Mountains.

Prices start from £2,91unique wilds of BC's Chicoltin Mountain Park with day walks in Garibaldi and Whistler. Prices start from £3,670pp including flights. mountainkingdoms.com

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Rock and roll in B.C hiking, mountain biking and whitewater rafting.

Golfers will find over 25 stunning and challenging championship golf courses. It's also renowned for its abundant fishing locales and anglers should prepare for glacier-fed rivers and lakes filled with some of the largest trout in the world.

Culture lovers look out for restored heritage and gold rush towns with thriving arts communities, like Nelson, set idyllically on Kootenay Lake and dubbed Canada’s number one small arts town.

Arrive by major highway or by air into Cranbrook International Airport. Accommodation options abound, from wilderness camping to mountain cabins or luxurious B:222 mmstays in pure, natural settings. helloBC.co.uk/kootenay-rockies T:216 mm S:190 mm

DISCOVER A WORLD OF COMFORT. Premium Economy Class.

Superior comfort and personalized service awaits you in our Premium Economy Class. Inside this exclusive, quiet cabin, you’ll have ample room to stretch out – in a larger seat with more recline and extra legroom. Designed to enhance your travel experience, Premium Economy Class offers dining service you’ll love, an 11” personal touch TV, and a variety of airport priority services along the way – because our priority is your comfort.

For more information, contact your travel agent or visit aircanada.com

DA VE LL EA RT H

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ivers, lakes, waterfalls, beaches, mineral hot springs, alpine meadows and snow-capped mountains characterise the Kootenay Rockies, which is home to four of B.C's seven national parks, Yoho National Park, Kootenay National Park, Glacier National Park and Mount Revelstoke National Park are all places for wildlife to flourish.

During winter it's home to the continent’s finest powder and epic outdoor pursuits. Hip ski resorts like Fernie, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Panorama Mountain Village and Revelstoke Mountain Resort are all highly ranked for their ski runs, powder and facilities, minus the crowds.

Come summer, the area is one of Canada’s best for

LE CA RR IE CO

Discover the Kootenay Rockies, a pristine region in a south-eastern corner of British Columbia, home to some of Canada’s highest peaks

FAM TRIP

Québec

Fall foliage fam W

hat better time to join a Québec fam than the end of September when the province's glorious russet autumn hues splash their colours across the province?

Laura Roberston from Barrhead Travel, Frank Kelly from American Holidays, and Rachel Finney, Jess Heaney and Daniel Paines from Flight Centre enjoyed a week in the French-speaking province.

The group started at W Montréal, the perfect recommendation for anyone looking to spend time exploring this hip and cosmopolitan city.

They visited the famous Mount Royal Park, with its spectacular city views, shopped for foodie treats amongst the colourful piles of fruit and veg at Marché Jean-Talon and gazed at eclectic First Nations and modern art at the Museum of Fine Arts.

Next stop was, Québec City's fairytale architecture and charming cobbled streets filled with cafes and

artisan shops. Just outside the capital, the group visited the Huron-Wendat reservation, to see a re-created First Nations village, and stayed the night at Forêt (Forest) Montmorency. The next morning they enjoyed a successful moose watching mission at dawn.

In the Charlevoix region, the group hiked the Parc National des Grands-Jardins, for breathtaking views of autumnal forest, and took Train de Charlevoix along the St Lawrence River, past bucolic villages.

At the 'castle on the cliff', Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu, they enjoyed a gourmet terroir-inspired meal made with this foodie region's finest produce.

Before returning to Montréal, the agents stayed a night at the luxury log-cabin-style Hôtel Sacacomie and combined bear and beaver watching in the wilds with some luxuriating in the resort's outdoor hot pools, enjoying lake views through the steam.

The view from Hôtel Sacacomie

Québec City's beautiful train station

Baie-Saint-Paul, Charlevoix

Marché Jean-Talon, Montréal

Dinner, Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu

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SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

Parc National des Grands-Jardins

Huron-Wendat reservation colours

In the spa pool at Hôtel Sacacomie

QUEBEC

A cruise ship moored at sunset

Soaking up the sun in the Old Port

A port for all T

Celebrate Canada's 150 years of Confederation by visiting its most historic port and soaking up a maritime heritage which goes back even further than Canada itself. Québec City is bursting with cultural attractions and joie de vivre which visitors can follow on foot or by bike, stretching nearly 50 km from the Québec City bridges to Montmorency Falls. The falls are an impressive 30 metres higher than Niagara Falls and create a sparkling spectacle all year round. Other attractions on the trail include the Québec Public Market, which is stacked with fresh local products to sample on the water’s edge.

As night falls, the Old Port’s Bunge grain silos are transformed into a stunning theatre of light as they serve as the backdrop to Aurora Borealis, an impressive light show that illuminates the silos with the colours of the Did you Northern Lights.

Another winter activity for know? hardy souls is ice canoeing, Québec City has won numerous which is unique to Québec City. It awards including Trip Advisor's sees participants both row and Traveller's Choice 2016 accolade jog over the waters of the St. Lawrence River, negotiating both the winter river's breathtaking water and patches of crackling ice.

his year Canada is celebrating the 150th anniversary of its Confederation and Québec City, Canada’s oldest port, will host the pinnacle of the Rendezvous 2017 Tall Ships Regatta. A fleet of 40 tall ships and 3,000 crew members from across the world will sail up the St Lawrence and convene in the city from July 18-23, offering ship tours and themed activities from the docks and showcasing international friendship and culture in Québec’s capital.

One of the oldest settlements in North America, its cobbled streets ring with the sound of horses’ hooves and the past is very much alive in its historic buildings. Old Québec is the only walled city north of Mexico and designated a World Heritage treasure by UNESCO. As the cradle of French civilization in North America, walking Québec City is a living history lesson and there’s no better place to start than the Old Port.

The charming streets that surround the Old Port are home to historic houses that were once grain merchants and grocers and now house antiques stores, art galleries and cute cafés and brasseries which spill onto the sidewalk in summer.

ALL-SEASON ATTRACTIONS

The port area boasts magnificent views and is the jumping-off point for a St. Lawrence River trail,

BOOK IT

Whether your clients make Rendezvous 2017 or not, Québec City is a top port of call and the perfect place to soak up Canada's long and rich history at a time of celebration.

RENDEZVOUS 2017, THE FACTS

PORT IN A STORM Québec City is one stop along a transatlantic race of 7,000 nautical miles taking place over five months in 2017. The race starts at the port of Royal Greenwich in London on April 13 and finishes in Le Havre, France.

THE PROGRAMME The 40 ships will sail up the St. Lawrence on July 18, making for a spectacular site. Entertainment on the wharves will include games, nautical activities, street and circus performers.

On July 20 more than 3,000 sailors will march through the streets of Old Québec. The grand finale on July 22 sees thematic musical fireworks over the St Lawrence followed by the ships sailing off on July 23 rdv2017.com

ing Ice canoe

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Canada’s 150th anniversary Big celebrations need big names – and there are few bigger than a sesquicentennial! It is 150 years since Canada's confederation and a host of parties and events are planned across the country AS you’d expect, Canada is going all out to mark its 150th birthday in 2017, with a host of cultural and sporting events taking place from British Columbia to Newfoundland.

The capital, Ottawa, will be the focal point of much of the activity, with July 1 – Canada Day – shaping up to be the biggest party of the lot, with a day-long patriotic extravaganza filling the streets around Parliament Hill.

Expect music, shows, concerts and great food, all topped off with an eyepopping fireworks display. (ottawa2017.ca) Also in July, Ottawa’s Canadian Museum of History will open its new Canadian History Hall. Told over 18 ‘chapters’ the candid exhibition is being billed as the nation’s most comprehensive look at its past and will feature 65 interactive elements, 75 maps, 100 digital productions, and over 800 artifacts (historymuseum.ca).

Chaudiere Falls on the Ottawa River will be the venue for a ground-breaking ambient light and sound show that celebrates native Algonquin heritage. Similarly, visitors can get at the centre of the action with a stateof-the-art multimedia production staged within one of the stations being built for 14

SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2016/17

Ottawa's new light rail transit system, due to open in 2018. Visitors will descend into the unfinished Lyon Station and be presented with projections transporting them into the future (ottawatourism.ca).

ONE MILLION-PLUS

Meanwhile, Toronto is getting in on the festivities with the Maple Leaf Forever exhibition at its famous Market Gallery. The show examines how the city helped shape the maple leaf as Canada's leading national symbol, dating back to the Prince of Wales' visit to Toronto just prior to Confederation. (toronto.ca/ marketgallery).

If you’re out west on Canada Day, head for downtown Vancouver. More than one million visitors will take to Canada Place for the festivities, but don't worry if you arrive a little late – the fun is scheduled to last for three days and will include a Youth Zone, citizenship ceremony, food trucks and a fireworks show (canadaplace.ca).

CANADA GAMES

Winnipeg, Manitoba,will host the 50th Canada Games – a two-week sporting and

cultural festival starting July 28 and featuring over 250 events. The 2017 Games will bring together 4,000 amateur athletes and artists from across the nation and attract more than 20,000 visitors. (canadagames.ca) Meanwhile, this time on Canada Day, hardcore amateur athletes can submit to the ultimate challenge – the Canada 150 Ultra Marathon. The epic 150-mile race crosses the rich beauty of the Canadian Shield, starting at Great Falls on the Winnipeg River and finishing at the Falcon Lake ski resort. (canada150ultra.com)

CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS When it reopens this year, the Royal Alberta Museum in Edmonton will be the largest museum in Western Canada. The space will embody the story of Alberta, featuring natural and human history to share Alberta’s incredible archaeological and cultural stories, from changing landscapes to First Nations culture and today's multi-cultural community.

Also in Alberta, the province's famous Calgary Stampede will pull out all the stops this year, with a special programme for year 150.

MONTREAL IS 375!

While Canada turns a relatively youthful 150 in 2017, Montréal marks a more stately 375th birthday this year. Amongst the events being staged to commemorate this anniversary is Cite Memoire, which invites visitors to experience Montréal's history through multi-media projections around Old Montreal - on buildings, cobblestone streets and even on trees. (montrealenhistoires.com)

Photos: Kelly Funk, Sam Egan, Adam Earle, Gemma Harris

MT. ROBSON

JASPER

WELLS GRAY PARK

LAKE LOUISE

SUN PEAKS Kamloops Whistler

MERRITT

Kelowna Vancouver

BANFF

Miles above the meeting place of the North and South Thompson rivers lays the easily accessible mountain Village of Sun Peaks. The journey from the valley floor travels from the desert sage, up past lakes and ranches, through lush forest to Canada’s Alpine Village. The air is comfortably cooler and carries a note of adventure. Whisk up the Sunburst Chairlift and discover Canada’s most stunning and easily accessible display of alpine wildflowers, sweeping views of the rugged Thompson Okanagan and wildlife in its natural habitat.

Descend exploring kilometers of downhill biking and hiking trails or simply ride the chairlift back to the village.

SunPeaksResort.com

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rooMs witH a view

SCENE

stealers If your clients are looking for a hotel or resort where the rooms have fabulous outlooks, then you’re spoilt for choice in Canada, says Rupert Parker

W

Fogo island inn

16

hen compiling a list of properties in Canada with views to die for, there is only one place to start: the majestic hotels constructed by the Canadian Pacific Railway towards the end of the 19th century.

Many of them were built to resemble European castles, with towers, turrets and spires, designed to be destinations in their own right. The Rocky Mountains saw the first, promising healthy mountain air and therapeutic hot springs. Others soon followed and today they’re operated under the Fairmont name.

But visitors are not limited to 19th century stately grandeur. In Atlantic Canada you can stay on a deserted island at the northern tip of Newfoundland in a still-operating historic lighthouse inn that dates from 1922.

Alternatively, luxuriate in the striking designer Fogo Island Inn which perches on stilts overlooking

SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

the sea (pictured above). At both, icebergs drift past your window and whales approach the shore.

Spot polar bears on the edge of Hudson Bay from the unique Tundra Buggy Lodge, or watch grizzly bears at Sonara Resort in British Columbia.

Perhaps the most spectacular sight is from the Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa, where the three Niagara Falls thunder in front of your eyes.

And if you want to pretend you’re one of the original Canadian pioneers take out a houseboat on Shuswap Lake, light up a campfire and barbecue the fish you caught earlier.

Quirpon Lighthouse Inn, Newfoundland Go as far North as you can in Newfoundland and, after a 30-minute ferry ride, you’ll reach the Quirpon Lighthouse Inn. There are 10 rooms in the keeper’s cottages at the base of this lighthouse, built in 1922 and still operational

today. Granted, it’s a property that only suits a certain type of customer; this deserted island sits on the edge of the world, cut off from modern life with no phones or TV. Outside, in the Labrador Straits, is ‘Iceberg Alley’, named after the procession of these giants floating down from Greenland. Whales, including minkes, orcas and humpbacks, are constant companions, often coming so close to shore you can almost touch them. Watch them at the indoor viewing station or, if you want to get close, set out in the hotel’s zodiac or take a kayak. linkumtours.com/quirpon-lighthouse-inn Fogo Island Inn, Newfoundland A more luxurious venue for whale and iceberg watching in Newfoundland is the Fogo Island Inn, a striking contemporary hotel, cleverly constructed on stilts, rising directly from the rocks below. All of the 29 suites have floor-to-ceiling views of the sea and sky, perfect for spectacular views of ‘Iceberg Alley’. They’re kitted out in natural materials with textiles and furniture handcrafted locally, and the only plastic is the telephone. The inn also has a library, 37-seat cinema, gym, rooftop hot tubs and wood-fired rooftop sauna, making it the perfect modern haven for those who want to escape. Exceptional soundproofing ensures that guests hear only the sound of the waves. If you want to explore, then Fogo Island has over 200km of paths – pick berries in the hills or hike the coastline and dodge the caribou. fogoislandinn.ca

Monoir Hovey's blooms

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Linkum Tours Ltd.

Rooms with a View

Dusk at Quirpon Lighthouse

Chateau le Frontenac, Québec City One of the first railway hotels built by Canadian Pacific, the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac sits inside the walls of old Québec overlooking the St. Lawrence River. The castle is a jumble of towers, turrets and gleaming spires and has recently seen a multimillion dollar restoration project. All of its 611 rooms and suites are furnished with a hint of elegant Europe, yet fitted with the most modern technology. Dining in the Champlain restaurant offers exceptional views of the Saint Lawrence River plus a culinary journey through new Québec cuisine. Venture out of the hotel and you can explore the walls crowning the heights of Abraham on your morning stroll. fairmont.com/frontenac-quebec Manoir Hovey, North Hatley, Québec Just 75 minutes’ drive from Montréal, the fivestar Relais & Châteaux Manoir Hovey was built in 1900 as a summer retreat for a rich American industrialist. It was modelled on Mount Vernon, George Washington’s Southern-styled mansion in Virginia, and sits on the shores of Lake Massawippi in its own private grounds. With its broad, white-pillared veranda, climbing vines, wicker furniture and extensive gardens, it’s the ideal place to relax. Most of the 37 rooms and suites feature wood-burning fireplaces, private balconies and extensive views across the lake.

Enjoy the tasting menu in Le Hatley restaurant which serves seasonal ingredients from Québec’s rivers, lakes and fields. The hotel topped Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Awards in 2016. manoirhovey.com/en

"Five-star Manoir Hovey was modelled on George Washington's southern-style mansion"

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rooMs witH a view

Houseboat on Shushwap Lake

Fairmont Pacific Rim

Tundra Buggy Lodge

Marriott Niagara Falls Hotel Fallsview & Spa A number of hotels cluster around Niagara Falls but the Marriott Fallsview Niagara Falls Hotel & Spa is the closest. It’s not the most beautiful building and not all 432 rooms have a view, so make sure you book a Fallsview Room. All three falls are visible from the upper floors and dining in the restaurant at night, you’ll be captivated by the light scattering on the cascading waters.

The menu offers gourmet seasonal selections, complemented by Niagara wines. There are often fireworks and if you become immune to the natural beauty there’s an indoor pool, fitness centre and large spa complete with two whirlpools, a sauna, and a steam room. niagarafallsmarriott.com

Spotting grizzlies doesn't mean forgoing luxury

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Originally built by Canadian Pacific in 1890 to lure monied travellers into taking the train out west, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise was the birthplace of Canadian mountaineering. It sits just outside Banff, with magnificent views over the glistening Lake Louise, and is surrounded by the

peaks of the Rockies with the majestic Victoria Glacier straight ahead. It was originally a small summer log cabin but, thanks to two early fires and four architects, evolved into today's luxury hotel with six restaurants and a world-class spa.

It’s now a year-round luxury resort, and offers world-class skiing, snowboarding and ice skating.

The summer provides hiking, horse riding, fishing, mountain biking and river rafting and, of course, there’s a luxurious spa to soak those aching limbs. fairmont.com/lake-louise Tundra Buggy Lodge, Churchill, Manitoba To get the true Churchill polar bear experience you have to get out among them. Every October, five Tundra Buggy units are moved to Polar Bear Point in the Churchill Wildlife Management Area and moored there until November. There are two accommodation units, basically bunkhouses, with shared bathrooms, a lounge car, a dining car, and staff quarters. Outdoor viewing platforms connect each unit and exterior lights allow guests to continue watching the bears after the sun goes down. Daily excursions allow you to explore the area beyond the lodge and there are evening

Authentic. Unique.

Truly Canadian.

Book the Canadian Dream

by May 31, 2017 and save an additional 10%.

evranch.com • info@evranch.com • 1.800.253.8831

rooMs witH a view

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Chateau Le Frontenac

presentations from experts. If you’re lucky you’ll also see the spectacular Northern Lights. frontiersnorth.com/content/tundra-buggy-lodge Houseboat on Shuswap Lake, Sicamous, British Columbia For a different view of Canada, hire a houseboat for three, four, or seven nights and explore the pristine sandy beaches, towering waterfalls, and warm clear waters of Shuswap Lake. The smallest boat sleeps up to six people, while the most spacious has seven bedrooms and six bathrooms plus three deck levels for entertaining and an eight-person hot tub. Pull up for the night, jump on shore and make a campfire and you’ll be reliving the experience of the early pioneers.

Unlike them, you can climb back on board and pass the night in cosy luxury. No previous skipper experience is required – you just turn up, get a quick orientation and then you’re off. Available May to October. twinanchors.com

Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel, Vancouver Unlike the Canadian Pacific Fairmont hotels, this one is modern and its Coal Harbour waterfront location distinguishes it from its competitors. It’s just across the street from the Canada Place cruise terminal and the views of the water and the snow-

View of Niagara Falls, Ontario

"watCH GriZZly Bears in tHeir natural HaBitat, FeastinG on salMon"

Book it FRONTIER Two nights in Toronto and two nights in Niagara (Marriott Falls View) costs from £1099pp for travel in June including Air Canada flights and airport transfers. frontier-travel.co.uk ABERCROMBIE & KENT The Wildlife of British Columbia tour offers 13 nights, priced from £4,495pp and including flights and two nights at Sonora Resort, with helicopter transfer. A seven-day trip to Newfoundland & central Canada including a stay at Fogo Island Inn costs from £3,450pp. abercrombiekent.co.uk

capped mountains are spectacular. It’s easy to lose yourself gazing at the seaplanes in the harbour, but guests might prefer to relax by the rooftop pool in one of the private cabanas or by one of the outdoor fire pits. Their Willow Stream Spa features a private outdoor terrace, nine treatment areas, Jacuzzis, infrared sauna and a 24-hour fitness centre. Dining options include the city’s best Italian café and raw bar in the lobby serving seafood, sushi, cocktails and Champagne. fairmont.com/pacific-rim-vancouver/ Sonora Resort, British Columbia The all-inclusive Relais & Chateaux Sonora Resort nestles in the BC coastal rainforest on its own island. The only way to reach it is by boat, helicopter or seaplane. It’s around 120 miles northeast of Vancouver and overlooks one of the most beautiful sections of the Pacific coast’s Inside Passage. Rooms are spread across several unobtrusive lodges, all equipped to a five-star standard, and from the dock you’re bound to see harbour seals, sea lions and porpoises. The main attraction is watching grizzly bears in their natural habitat, feasting on salmon. And, if you fancy your chances, go out fishing, catch your own King Salmon and have it served up in the restaurant. sonoraresort.com/relais-chateaux

Catching salmon at Sonora

SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

19

CITY PROFILE

head the stampede to....

Calgary

C

An hour's drive east of where the prairies fold into the Rockies, Alberta’s largest city captures the very essence of Canada’s pioneering spirit, says Neal Baldwin

algary is unashamedly 'Canada', built on the wealth brought by oil, cattle and the railroads. But vsitors who venture here are also guaranteed a classic ‘western’ experience.

And while they will likely leave with the ‘yee-haws’ ringing in their ears and a ten-gallon hat on their heads, the chances are that what they’ll remember most is something altogether far more cosmopolitan.

Calgary is best known for its world-famous Stampede, a 10-day long rodeo, festival and exhibition held each July.

It’s a spectacle that has to be seen to be believed. Calgarians are rightly proud of their heritage and wholeheartedly embrace the party spirit: city buildings and offices are decked out in cowboy themes, parades and concerts rock the streets and ‘Cowtown’ turns on the grill to serve up the biggest and best steaks money can buy.

SADDLE UP

Kayaking on the Bow River

big-name acts. Don’t worry if country music isn’t your thing – all genres are represented.

For example, RnB superstar Usher headlines this year.

Drinking in the atmosphere is plenty enough, but to really ‘do’ Stampede visitors are well advised to see a rodeo event (they take place every day, with the world’s best riders FRONTIER DAYS competing for huge prizes); see the Keeping up the western theme is jaw-dropping evening show Heritage Park Historical Village, with its chariot racing a preserved-in-aspic frontier and live music; and town where all the buildings grab tickets for one were built before 1915.

Canadian Affair – 0203 424 6306 of the many music The town features a fort, Make the most of the Calgary Stampede with concerts featuring school, grain mill, church seven nights in the city from £1,685pp. Departing and train, and there July 7, 2017 the deal includes Air Transat flights are costumed guides from Gatwick, seven nights’ accommodation and car hire, based on two adults sharing. Note: Calgary on hand to answer Stampede tickets are extra. questions.

History meets modernity in the centre of town, where there are two top-class museums. The Glenbow Museum showcases Calgary’s past with a clever twist, bringing stories alive with exhibits including a traditional First Nations tipi and voice recordings from old Calgarians. The museum also hosts Downtown Calgary

Book it!

20

SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

temporary exhibits ranging from modern art to pop culture. Alternatively, the National Music Centre serves as a monument to Canadian music, with plenty of fun, handson exhibits.

Calgary has repurposed its 1988 Winter Olympics venue as a year-round visitor attraction. The Canada Olympic Park can be toured by bus in the summer, allowing visitors to see behind-the-scenes bobsled tracks and training facilities - and even zipwire from the top of the ski jumps. In winter the slopes are open to skiers and snowboarders. An Olympic Hall of Fame is packed with gold medal memorabilia.

GETTING HIGH

Take a trip to the top of Calgary Tower.

Formerly the tallest building in the city, the concrete spike is similar is shape to the better-known CN Tower in Toronto.

Although it's now dwarfed by many of the modern skyscrapers downtown, it still offers impressive views.

From up top you’ll be able to make out Prince’s Island Park, which is the perfect place to kick back in the Calgary sunshine.

The park hosts open air theatre shows and a folk festival in July.

ALBERTA

Upselling Alberta Winter sports fans love Alberta's Rocky Mountains resorts for their fantastic facilities and great snow but don't forget to add-on some of these unforgettable experiences beyond the slopes too

1

LIGHTS FANTASTIC

There’s little in the natural world that can beat the Northern Lights for pure ‘wow’. The dazzling, swirling patterns – caused by charged particles high in the atmosphere – can be seen at their spectacular best at Fort McMurray on clear nights between October and March. Twoday Northern Light viewing experiences, with lodging, meals and transfers, are available priced from $759pp.

NLOEA.com

2

SKATE EXPECTATIONS

There are few things that Canadians take more seriously than ice hockey and a professional NHL game is the best way to find out what all the fuss is about – it’s fast, brutal and shameless fun. Alberta has two of the top sides: Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames. Alternatively, check out the Junior Hockey League, the Canmore Eagles are based close to Banff with tickets for only $15. canmoreeagles.ca; nhl.com; ajhl.ca

3

ICE AND EASY

Jasper’s Maligne Canyon is a sight to behold in the winter, when its waterfalls and cave systems are encased by ice. Recommend a guided tour into this landscape to see it at its frosty best. Or for those who want to try something different, Rockaboo Adventures offers a day’s ice climbing that sees participants scaling a frozen waterfall in Jasper National Park.

Trips run daily from December 1 to March 1. maligneadventures.com; rockaboo.ca

4

RIDING HIGH

To effortlessly scale the unrivalled heights of Alberta, nothing beats the buzz of a helicopter tour. Sightseeing flights over the Rockies offer a bird's eye view of glaciers, rivers, lakes and waterfalls. Combine it with a separate dog-sledding experience for an adrenalin rush of quite a different order learning to ‘mush’ with an expert as canine guides lead the fun. rockiesheli.com; alpinehelicopters.com; snowyowltours.com

5

FEET FIRST

Visitors who really want to get out into Alberta's wilderness can strike out on foot by joining a snowshoeing tour. Modern shoes make it easy to explore mountain trails and backwaters in even the deepest snow, and it is the perfect way to experience the magical silence of the forest. Snowshoeing tours are available in all of Alberta’s winter resort destinations. travelalberta.com

6

SULPHUR, SO GOOD!

After negotiating the ski hills or crosscountry trails, what better way to soothe aching limbs than a relaxing thermal bath? Slide into the restorative waters of Banff Hot Springs – a surreal experience when everything around is covered in snow. The SkiBig3 lift pass, covering Norquay, Lake Louise and Banff, includes free entry to the springs as well as tubing at Lake Louise. banfflakelouise.com; skibig3.com

SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2016/17

21

CANADA'S SIX CITIES

SIX OF THE

BEST F

rom east to west, Canada's main 'gateway'cities offer urban breaks that guarantee great dining, family attractions, fun-packed events and festivals and much more. Stuart Forster offers an introduction to the best of Calgary, Halifax, Montréal, Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver.

Key Calgary Halifax Montréal

Ottawa Toronto Vancouver

Calgary Stampede

22

SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

What are the main attractions?

Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame (sportshall.ca) and the Hangar Museum (thehangarmuseum.ca), focusing on the history of �light, count among the city's key attractions. The new Studio Bell (studiobell.ca), home of Canada’s National Music Centre, gives visitors opportunities to both play and listen. For historical insights, Fort Calgary (fortcalgary.com), constructed by the mounted police, and the outdoor Heritage Park Historical Village (heritagepark.ca), are well worth visiting.

The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 (ww.pier21.ca) tells the emotional stories of people who emigrated to Canada and the role of the port during wartime. The waterfront Maritime Museum of the Atlantic (maritimemuseum. novascotia.ca) conveys Nova Scotia's seafaring heritage and has artefacts rescued from Titanic.

This year Montréal is celebrating 375 years since its foundation with events around the city.

Historic Old Montréal is home to the Notre-Dame Basilica (basiliquenddm.org) and domed Marché Bonsecours (marchebonsecours.qc.ca), a heritage building with boutiques selling products by local craftspeople and designers.

There’s a buzz about Ottawa, the nation's capital, thanks to celebrations marking the 150th anniversary of Canadian Confederation. The Peace Tower rises above the governmental buildings and Memorial Chamber on Parliament Hill. The underground Diefenbunker Museum (diefenbunker. ca) — one of many fabulous museums in Ottawa — tells the story of Canada during the Cold War. Heading up the CN Tower (cntower.ca) is a way of enjoying views over the city and the EdgeWalk provides an opportunity to lean right out on its 356m-high ledge. The Royal Ontario Museum (rom.on.ca) hosts exhibits on natural history and exploration. Toronto’s craft brewing scene is booming — the Bellwoods (bellwoodsbrewery. com) and Lansdowne (lansdownebrewery.com) breweries are two places to sample it.

Vancouver has a laid-back vibe and numerous green spaces, including the expansive Stanley Park

CANADA'S SIX CITIES

Halifax shopping

"VANCOUVER'S GRANVILLE ISLAND PUBLIC MARKET IS AN INVITING PLACE TO SAMPLE SEAFOOD AND BROWSE STALLS SELLING ARTS AND CRAFTS, INCLUDING FIRST NATIONS CREATIONS"

Wheels on fire in Toronto

– whose seawall is a popular with walkers and cyclists and has impressive views of the skyline – and Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden (vancouverchinesegarden.com).

The beach at English Bay provides a place to unwind. For insights into First Nations’ heritage there’s the Museum of Anthropology (moa. ubc.ca) and the broader Museum of Vancouver (museumofvancouver.ca).

What are the major annual events?

The Calgary Stampede (calgarystampede.com), from July 7-16, described as ‘the greatest outdoor show on earth’, features rodeos, chuck wagon racing and acrobatic dance shows.

Halifax Jazz Festival (halifaxjazzfestival.ca), Atlantic Canada’s biggest summer festival, runs from July 12-16. Canadian and International jazz musicians, including Thundercat and Nile Rodgers, will perform.

The Just For Laughs Comedy Festival (hahaha. com), from July 12-31, features leading stand-up comedians, including stars from the UK. It’s the largest event of its kind in the world.

A year-long programme of events (ottawa2017.

Ho� muc� is the tax�

fare fro� the airport?

Calgary: $45.Mayfair Taxi (mayfairtaxi.com).

Halifax: $63.Flylink Taxi and Airport Services (airporthalifaxtaxi.com).

Montréal: $40 in an electric Téo taxi (teomtl.com).

Ottawa: $40.Coventry Connections (coventryconnections.com).

Toronto: $50.A1 Airline Taxi (a1airlinetaxi.ca).

Vancouver: $33.Vancouver Taxi (vancouvertaxi.cab).

On the edge in Toronto

ca) celebrates Confederation. Highlights include the Inspiration Village, from May 2 to September 4, and Ignite entertainment series.

The city’s vibrancy is re�lected by a rich and varied calendar of events that includes the Pride Toronto Festival (pridetoronto.com), from June 1-25, Toronto Fringe Festival (fringetoronto.com), July 5-16, and the Toronto Summer Music Festival (torontosummermusic.com), which will be staged from July 13 to August 5.

The play’s the thing. Shakespeare fans can enjoy performances of his works during the Bard on the Beach (bardonthebeach.org) festival, which runs from May until September.

Where's the best view of the city?

Nose Hill Park, one of the country’s biggest urban green spaces, is criss-crossed with trails and offers impressive skyline views.

The ramparts of the 18th-century Citadel fortress provide panoramas over the city and harbour. For views of the waterfront it’s worth crossing over to Dartmouth’s Ferry Terminal Park.

Head to the Kondiaronk Belvedere, a terrace by Mount Royal Chalet, within the vast urban park named after Mount Royal, a 234m-high minimountain which offers �ine views over the city and the Saint Lawrence River.

Napean Point, by the Ottawa River, provides panoramas of Parliament Hill and is an insider tip for viewing the Canada Day �ireworks display (1 July). Looking along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO site, offers an outstanding perspective of the grand façade of the Fairmont Château Laurier.

Tommy Thompson Park (tommythompsonpark. ca), on Leslie Street Spit, provides views across Lake Ontario onto Toronto’s skyline.

For an elevated vista it’s hard to beat the observation platform on the Vancouver Lookout (vancouverlookout.com), 168m above the city.

Where’s best for dining?

There’s a smattering of �ine but affordable downtown restaurants — including Model Milk (modelmilk.ca), Market (marketcalgary.ca) and Blink (blinkcalgary.ca) — embracing the farm-totable concept of traceable, fresh produce.

SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

23

canada's six cities

Guilt and Company (guiltandcompany.com) and The Blarney Stone (blarneystone.ca) are two live music venues.

Calgary night district

Pick from downtown Halifax’s numerous dining options. The Five Fishermen Restaurant (fivefishermen.com) serves outstanding seafood and is reputedly the city’s most haunted building.

Montréal's culinary star is on the rise.

Restaurant Manitoba (restaurantmanitoba.com) in the Mile-Ex district is winning positive reviews for dishes featuring foraged ingredients. For fresh bagels try St-Viateur (stviateurbagel.com) or Fairmount (fairmountbagel.com) in Mile End. Clarence Street and Murray Street are home to restaurants serving cuisines from around the globe.

Hip, affordable Japanese gastropubs (izakayas) are dotted across Old Toronto. Food trucks are an option for tasty fare by up-and-coming chefs.

Chinatown is a good option for dishes ranging from inexpensive noodles and dim sum through to chic dining at the likes of Bao Bei Chinese Brasserie (bao-bei.ca).

Where’s recommended for nightlife?

Anywhere claiming to be ‘the most fun you can possibly have with your boots on’ is probably worth checking out! Cowboys nightclub (cowboysnightclub.com) hosts country music and party nights.

There’s a good choice of bars and clubs in the downtown area.

Old Montréal is dotted with bars. Muzique (muziquemontreal.com) on St-Laurent Boulevard is a chic club.

The streets around ByWard Market are a good bet for lively bars and lounges.

The Entertainment District, around King Street West, is a good area to visit for nightlife. The provocatively named Bovine Sex Club (bovinesexclub.com) is an edgy, eclectic venue with regular gigs.

Gastown has a smattering of hip bars and clubs.

24

Selling Canada spring/summer 2017

Montréal cuisine

Airport codes YYC (Calgary International) YHZ (Halifax Stanfield International) YUL (Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International) YOW (Ottawa International) YYZ (Toronto Pearson International) YVR ( Vancouver International)

Where’s best for shopping?

Stephen Avenue, a pedestrian area, hosts boutique stores and Calgary has its fair share of malls, including the Chinook Centre (cfshops.com).

With 160 stores, Halifax Shopping Centre (halifaxshoppingcentre.com) is Atlantic Canada’s largest mall.

For vintage clothing and used books, the resurgent Mile End district is worth exploring and has good, inexpensive restaurants.

ByWard Market (byward-market.com) is popular with locals and visitors. In addition to a long-established farmers’ market, gourmet produce and food demos, books and handicrafts count among the goods sold.

The Distillery District (thedistillerydistrict.com) houses designer stores and art galleries in a revamped industrial setting.

Granville Island (granvilleisland.com) Public Market is an inviting place to sample seafood and browse stalls selling arts and crafts, including First Nations creations.

Which city tour stands out?

Volunteers at Calgary Greeters (calgarygreeters. com) provide tailored, informal introductions to the city.

Segway Nova Scotia (segwayns.com) runs guided tours along the boardwalk.

Spade and Palacio’s (spadeandpalacio.com) Beyond the Market walking tour provides an insider’s perspective into Montréal's vibrant foodie scene.

Brew Donkey (brewdonkey.ca) runs weekend tasting tours of Ottawa’s breweries and brewpubs.

Mariposa Cruises (mariposacruises.com) offer 45-minute sightseeing tours of the harbour.

The Vancouver Trolley Company (vancouvertrolley.com) runs hop-on, hop-off city tours on a streetcar style vehicle.

Drive between

airport and city Calgary: 18km (30 minutes).

Halifax: 35km (40 minutes).

Montréal: 20km (25 minutes).

Ottawa: 13km (20 minutes).

Toronto: 28km (30 minutes).

Vancouver: 13km (20 minutes).

Ottawa

375 YEARS, THAT’S CAUSE FOR CELEBRATION! In 2017, the excitement soars to new heights with loads of activities set to highlight the city’s 375th anniversary.

AURA As of March 21, 2017 – Group rates available Discover a stunning, one-of-a-kind universe where orchestral music and exquisite light brilliantly collide, played out on one of the world’s most sublime canvases: Notre-Dame Basilica.

CITÉ MÉMOIRE Every evening – Free Luminous projections on the walls, trees and streets of Old Montréal bring the city’s vibrant history to life.

MONTRÉAL AVUDO May 17 to September 2, 2017 Free entrance – Reservations required This spectacular large-scale multimedia show by the Compagnia Finzi Pasca runs all summer in the Old Port, paying homage to the St. Lawrence River.

LIVING CONNECTIONS: A LUMINOUS WORK OF ART FOR THE JACQUES CARTIER BRIDGE As of May 17, 2017 – Free The iconic Jacques Cartier Bridge is transformed into an interactive digital kaleidoscope that harmonizes with the colours of the seasons and the energy of the city.

FESTIVAL INTERNATIONAL DE JAZZ DE MONTRÉAL – 38th EDITION June 28 to July 8, 2017 – Free outdoor programming The city core transforms into a meeting place for fans of jazz-related music: 1,000 concerts on 15 interior stages and a dozen outdoor venues.

ARTS IN THE STREET July 1 to 30, 2017 – Free Sixty-odd street theatre groups invade the streets of Montréal, offering up some 800 shows during the largest street theatre event in North America.

JUST FOR LAUGHS FESTIVAL July 12 to 31, 2017 – Free outdoor programming The world’s biggest comedy festival. Fans of theatre, stand-up comedy and street performances are spoiled for choice.

GARDENS OF LIGHT September 8 to October 31, 2017 – Group rates available Sections of the Montréal Botanical Garden light up and lead the way along contrasting pathways, all bathed in mystery and magic.

LEONARD COHEN – A CRACK IN EVERYTHING November 9, 2017, to April 1, 2018 – Group rates available The Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal pays homage to an icon of Montréal music and culture with a touching multidisciplinary exhibit.

© Patrick Pilon

MTLàTABLE November 2 to 16, 2017 – Reservations required Montréal Restaurant Week spotlights delectable fixed-price menus in more than 150 venues throughout the city.

DON’T MISS OUT. COME JOIN THE PARTY.

MTL.ORG

IN CONVERSATION WITH...

David Goldstein

We want storytellers Destination Canada's President & CEO, David Goldstein, reflects on Canada's success in 2016 and looks forward to breaking records in 2017 via digital marketing and strategic partnerships

W

e had a fantastic 2016 and came within a breath of our all-time visitor numbers high of 20.1 million. UK visitors were up 17%, making up 833,329 of the 20 million visitors. We're hoping to beat the record in 2017 and are working towards our goal of 22 million visitors spending 22 billion dollars by 2022.

Increased demand from tour operators has given the airlines confidence to increase seat capacity. There is currently a buzz about Canada, and that's linked to the mission we embarked on to change attitudes and make people realise that Canada is not cold, it's cool!

PROVIDING A NARRATIVE

Our first major change was to make sure we told people's stories rather than just sharing epic photography, as we had done historically. Our research showed that customers think of Canada as a beautiful, natural place – no great surprise as that's what our marketing has been saying for some time. But they didn't know about our vibrant cities or our diverse culinary and artistic scene; those are the things that young people are looking for.

We have intensified our digital marketing and are working with key influencers who can deliver digital stories about Canada.

I call it poetry and plumbing; the stories being the poetry and the plumbing being the channels through which we distribute them – each with a bespoke strategy.

TEAM CANADA

We've changed the way we work and we now have much stronger alignment with our partners, the provinces and the cities - we are 'Team Canada'.

We may not be able to outspend our competitors but we can outsmart them by being more efficient.

Canada was on a strong trajectory from 2015 onwards anyway but there is a great vibe about us right now. I think that the 26

SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2016/17

things that Canada stands for – openness, diversity, acceptance – are currently very appealing on a global stage when compared to other geo-political trends.

Digital story telling

TRADE TALKS

In the U.K. the trade is essential to our strategy. It's all about education and marketing. All fams now have a digital element and agents are issued a GoPro to enable them to be storytellers themselves. We recently re-launched our Canada Specialist Programme and have over 1,000 UK CSPs. This year we will hold our biannual Mega Fam, with 200 CSPs, including 60 UK agents, coming out to Canada and travelling all across the country before joining up in Toronto for the finale.

We have asked the trade: "What are your customers looking for?" We want to help them discover the alternative itineraries they need to sell Canada in every season.

'Cool' Montréal

WHAT NEXT?

I'm passionate about Aboriginal tourism and we are working on some Canadian Signature Experiences To incorporate Canada's east and an in this area. This will Aboriginal experience to an itinerary add be the third year we Kejimkujik National Park in Nova Scotia. Stone have an Aboriginal carvings, known as petroglyphs, can be found tourism pavilion at throughout the park, containing images of hunting, fishing, and other snapshots of traditional Mi’kmaq Rendez-Vous Canada life. Visitors can hike or hire a canoe and paddle (in May). the same waterways used by Brits really Aboriginal peoples for need to rediscover generations Canada's east! Its Celtic connections means it is very culturally aligned with the UK. Westjet's new service to Halifax and that city being the venue for Rendez-Vous 2018 will help boost the region.

Canada has so many hidden gems – Montréal, for instance, is a very cool city."

Sell it!

Canada's Celtic connections

ATLANTIC CANADA SOUNDS AMAZING

Cavendish, on Prince Edward Island, hosts one of the world's best country music shows.

Taylor Swift is among the big names to have played the Cavendish Beach Music Festival (July 7-9) in the past. cavendishbeachmusic.com

Delicious Atlantic Canada lobster

Wild at heart Atlantic Canada doesn't do anything by halves – and its festivals are no exception. Expect fantastic local fare, the best in traditional arts and music and a rollicking good time!

W

DE

ST

IN

AT

ild, colourful and larger than life... the adjectives typically used to describe the scenery and folk of Atlantic Canada can certainly be applied to the region's many festivities.

The pioneering spirit that built the four Atlantic Provinces – New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Ladrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island – runs richly through its traditional celebrations.

Food, music and history come to the fore throughout the year, and 2017 is on DA NA CA N course to be one of the most funIO packed ever.

TIME TO CHILL

For the coolest thrills, visitors can start things off at the Iceberg Festival, when Newfoundland and Labrador marks the beginning of spring in the north (June 2 -11). As the seas warm, huge icebergs drift south to the Great Northern Peninsula, creating an impressive backdrop to the party.

The arrival of these icy giants is an incredible sight – the best in traditional craft demonstrations, local cuisine, concerts and dancing complete the experience.

There are more maritime marvels in Nova Scotia with the annual Rendezvous Tall Ships festival. This year's incarnation (June 30-August

10), marks the 150th anniversary of the Canadian Confederation and will see 40 majestic tall ships pass around the province, calling at Lunenburg, Pictou, Sydney, St. Peter's, Louisbourg, Pugwash, Port Hawkesbury, Halifax, Shelburne and Digby, and ending with an evening sail in Annapolis Basin, a first for Nova Scotia.

The Harvest Jazz & Blues Festival in Fredericton, New Brunswick, celebrates its 27th year in 2017 (September 12-17). Expect more than 400 artists and some top names. harvestjazzandblues.com

PINCER MOVEMENT

For proof of Atlantic Canada's worldleading seafood heritage, look no further than New Brunswick's Shediac Lobster Festival (July 5-9). The packed programme pays homage to everyone's favourite crustacean, with events including a 1,000-person lobster feast, a world record attempt to make (and eat) the biggest lobster roll, and even a fun lobsterthemed carnival parade.

Alternatively, Prince Edward Island marks the bounty of autumn with its Fall Flavours Festival (September 14-17). The culinary adventure highlights authentic PEI tastes and traditions, with a host of events overseen by some of the region's best chefs. It includes the International Shellfish Festival – a must-do event for those who love their clams, oysters and lobsters with a musical side dish.

Elliston in Newfoundland and Labrador combines music and food at its Roots, Rants and Roars Fall Festival (September 15-16). Local chefs show off their skills, while the best folk acts rock the crowds. rootsrantsandroars.ca

Nova Scotia's Celtic heritage and autumn scenery are celebrated at the Celtic Colours International Music Festival on Cape Breton Island (October 6-14). celticcolours.com

SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

27

TOP TEN BUCKET LIST

World without bounds There’s no shortage of A-list attractions to recommend to Canada-bound clients. Stuart Forster suggests 10 for evey must-do list

GET CLOSE TO GRIZZLIES

ABORIGINAL TOURISM

Grizzly bears weighing as much as 1,100lbs roam the Great Bear Rainforest, the home of around half of Canada’s 25,000 population, on British Columbia’s coast. To coincide with the animals’ busiest periods of activity, two expert-led viewing sessions are scheduled each day at Great Bear Lodge, a floating base where locally caught salmon (also a favourite snack among grizzlies) features on the wholesome menu. greatbeartours.com; destinationbc.ca

The long heritage of Canada’s First Nations, Inuit and Metis peoples means a scattering of National Historic Sites across the country.

More than 200 First Nations live in British Columbia, speaking 30 languages. Immersive experiences, such as those offered at Haida House on Haida Gwaii, are a way to learn about traditions, taste cuisine and experience the nature its people are so close to. aboriginalcanada.ca; aboriginalbc.com; haidahouse.com

SUNSET AT THE RCMP HERITAGE CENTRE

HEAD TO AN ICE HOCKEY GAME

VIEW WILD POLAR BEARS BY THE HUDSON BAY

Famed for the iconic red tunics and broadbrimmed Stetson hats of its dress uniform, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s history traces back to 1873. That story is told at the heritage centre in Regina, Saskatchewan, next to the base where all recruits start their careers. On summer Tuesdays visitors can view marching bands and drills during the Sunset-Retreat Ceremony. tourismsaskatchewan.com; rcmphc.com

Canadians refer to their national winter sport simply as hockey. Fast, tough and skilful, the NHL is regarded as the world’s best league and Nova Scotian Sidney Crosby is its current star. Visitors can experience Canadian passion for hockey at venues such as the Centre Bell — the NHL’s largest arena and the 21,273seat home of the Montreal Canadiens – or during local league encounters. hockeycanada.ca; nhl.com; chl.ca

Churchill, in Manitoba, is dubbed the polar bear capital of the world. Around 1,000 of the world’s 25,000 population find habitat along the Hudson Bay’s western shore. The carnivores can be viewed from the heated cabin of a Tundra Buggy and even on foot, as part of a group, during autumn polar bear photo safaris at Seal River Heritage Lodge. travelmanitoba.com; everythingchurchill. com; churchillwild.com; frontiersnorth.com

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SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

TRAVEL BETWEEN TORONTO AND VANCOUVER BY TRAIN Snow-capped mountains, swaying prairies and the broad bends of the Athabasca River are just some of the scenes along the 2,755-mile-long route of The Canadian as it rolls between Toronto and Vancouver. There are three classes of service for the epic three-day, four-night rail journey through five provinces. Live entertainment and comfortable lounges ensure the journey is sociable as well as scenic. Viarail.ca

TOP TEN BUCKET LIST

Tower, overlooking St John’s, and the clifftop by the lighthouse at Cape Spear. Boat tours offer opportunities to get even closer. and typically include the opportunity to get up close to wildlife such as whales and brightlycoloured Atlantic puffins. newfoundlandlabrador.com; icebergquest.com

SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS DANCE IN THE SKY

RIDE THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER

Nightfall doesn‘t necessarily mean the end to a day’s adventures. Low light pollution and high latitude make northern Canada one of the world’s premier destinations for viewing the Aurora Borealis. Walled tents inspired by gold prospectors’ shelters provide a cosy base at the Northern Lights Trading Post, 20 minutes’ drive from Whitehorse, the Yukon’s capital. travelyukon.com; whitehorse.ca; northerntales.ca

This luxury train sweeps through seven mountain ranges, including the Canadian Rockies, covering four separate routes (Seattle to the Rockies via Vancouver; Vancouver to Jasper via Whistler and Quesnel; Vancouver to Jasper via Kamloops; and Vancouver to Banff via Kamloops and Lake Louise). GoldLeaf Service means access to double-decker cars with dome windows – ideal for panoramas of the Fraser Canyon and Pyramid Falls – plus gourmet cuisine crafted from regional ingredients by onboard chefs. Trains stop each evening, with guests sleeping in top-quality hotels en route. The journey can be combined with cruises, extended stays in any of the start/ finish destinations and a selection of excursions from city tours, to whale watching, helicopter rides and kayaking. rockymountaineer.com

ICEBERG VIEWING Each springtime floating mountains of ice, some the size of Manhattan, drift south from Greenland along ‘Iceberg Alley’, the stretch of Atlantic off Newfoundland and Labrador’s coast. They can be viewed from Cabot

WHALE WATCHING The Atlantic coastline is the place to head if you want guaranteed encounters with whales – 20 different species migrate through Canadian territorial waters, bringing opportunities to see them rolling and breaching. During summertime, humpback, fin and minke whales are frequently spotted in the Bay of Fundy. Whale watching tours on sizable vessels and inflatable Zodiacs depart from harbours in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Head out on a larger boat and you may find yourself alongside scientists conducting research into these impressive beasts. For a wilder, wind-in-the-hair experience, don waterproofs for a Zodiac ride and get up close enough to smell the whales' fishy breath.

Either way, you're likely to enjoy dolphin and seal sightings along the way. Peak season is late June to mid-September. novascotia.com; tourismnewbrunswick.ca; oceanexplorations.ca

All the options mentioned are Canadian Signature Experiences – curated holiday experiences offered by Canadians and guaranteed for their quality. To find out more see canada.travel on the Destination Canada website.

A view to thrill

Niagara Helicopters Flightseeing Tours

Niagara Helicopters 905 357 5672 niagarahelicopters.com

CANADA'S PARKS

Discove� natur� DISCOVER CANADA'S PROTECTED PLACES

Canada is celebrating 150 years of Confederation and to mark this landmark year the guardian of its natural places, Parks Canada, is offering free access to national parks and historic sites throughout 2017

Agents can order the Discovery Pass online (parkscanada.gc.ca) to unlock Canada's national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas.

ALBERTA Five national parks are located in Alberta including Banff NP, Canada’s first national park.

Three of the parks are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are easily accessed from the towns of Banff and Jasper. Discover thousands of miles of valleys, mountains, glaciers, forests and rivers.

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Vancouver Island hosts Pacific Rim NP and the BC Islands has Gulf Islands NP Reserve – both packed with for wildlife and great for bird watching. Inland, Kootenay NP sits on the southwestern slopes of the Rocky Mountains and Yoho NP's natural rock bridge spanning Kicking Horse River is a site to behold.

Di� yo� kno�...

NEW BRUNSWICK

P rinc� Edwar� Islan� PEI National Park is a 60-kilometre stretch of the island’s north shore and an adventure playground for kids of all ages. It's home to sand dunes, barrier islands, sandspits, beaches, sandstone cliffs, wetlands and forests, where biking, hiking, jogging and roller blading are all popular.

MANITOBA From the lakeside town of Wasagaming, clients can access Riding Mountain NP and over 4,000km of trails and sandy beaches with black bear, elk, moose, lynx and plains bison. Churchill is the gateway town for Wapusk NP, which protects one of the world’s largest polar bear denning areas.

Wapusk is a vast subarctic wilderness and access is only via authorised tour operators in Churchill.

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SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

Ontari�

There's plenty of wilderness just hours from Toronto and Ottawa. Point Pelee NP is one of Canada’s smallest national parks and one of its most visited. Thousand Islands National Park consists of 21 granite islands running from Kingston to Brockville, all great for watersports.

Kouchibouguac NP on the Acadian Coast boasts golden sand dunes, estuaries brimming with life, a Dark Sky Preserve and Mi’kmaq and Acadian culture. Fundy NP is where visitors can experience the highest tides in the world and over 75 miles of walking and hiking trails.

Visitors can set up in one of three campgrounds and even stay in a yurt.

The world's largest beaver dam can be found in Wood Buffalo NP, Alberta.

It's about 2,790 foot long and can be seen from space!

NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR Labrador's Gros Morne National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site ranked for its ancient landscape. It has a spectacular coastal path and offers the chance to go beachcombing, cruise gorges and spot moose, caribou and arctic hare in the highlands. Canada’s most easterly national park, the boreal forest-smothered Terra Nova on Newfoundland, is great for camping.

Canada's parks

NOVA SCOTIA Cape Breton Highlands NP is known for the worldfamous Cabot Trail coastline, which winds through forested river canyons. Wildlife spotters should keep an eye open for moose and bald eagles, as well as minke and pilot whales. Kejimkujik NP is divided into two areas. The main park is 11 miles from the village of Caledonia and the Kejimkujik Seaside is 62 miles southeast of the main park.

NUNAVUT

Québec

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES Wood Buffalo NP straddles the Northwest Territories – Alberta border and is one of the world’s largest, comprised of boreal plains.

Aulavik NP in the north is home to muskoxen and visitors can see them in greater numbers than anywhere else on earth. Nahani NP reserve can be reached by flight-seeing trip from Fort Simpson and best explored by expedition canoe or raft.

La Mauricie NP, located near Shawinigan in the Laurentian mountains, is easily accessible from Montréal. During winter, Forillon NP has scenic ski trails in winter and is a hikers' haven in summer. Mingan Archipelago NP Reserve's granitic islets and reef are home to marine life.

Auyuittuq NP is the most accessible of the national parks in Nunavut and popular for short or extended visits. Located on eastern Baffin Island, the park’s landscape is rock and ice with steep, rugged mountains, vast glaciers and powerful rivers. Most hikers and skiers follow the 60-mile Akshayuk Pass. Overlord is the main entry point for the park and where to book tours.

Yukon

High in the mountains of southwest Yukon is Kluane NP and Reserve, home to the highest peak in Canada (Mount Logan) its largest icefield and North America’s most diverse grizzly bear population. Visitors can explore alpine passes or raft calving glaciers. Kluane can be reached by air via Whitehorse.

VISIT US AT NIAGARAPARKSTRAVELTRADE.COM

SASKATCHEWAN Grasslands NP features trails, nature hikes and a kids Xplorers programme, making it a great escape for families. Base clients at Frenchman Valley or Rock Creek campgrounds for exploring. Prince Albert NP is perfect for wilderness experiences with activities ranging from canoeing to wakeboarding. The park is located about an hour’s drive from Prince Albert and two and a half hours from Saskatoon.

CANADA BY RV

YOU CAN....

GO YOUR OWN WAY Self-proclaimed ‘part-time traveller and full-time travel obsessive’ Lucy Dodsworth, author of travel blog On the Luce, takes to the open road on an RV trip from Calgary to Toronto

L

ONG, straight roads disappearing into the horizon, perfectly flat lakes reflecting fluffy clouds, quirky roadside cafés and the odd passing moose – Canada was built for a road trip.

The only problem I found was keeping my eyes on the road!

Canada's vast size means that visitors often stick to the cities and surrounding areas, but travelling

by RV (motorhome) means you can get out into the heart of the country and aren't reliant on hotels.

My sister and I took two weeks to travel 4500km across four provinces and three times zones. Our first taste of Canada by RV was epic in more ways than one – not least since I was a camping-phobe

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SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

and had never driven – or even been inside – an RV. Setting off from Calgary with nothing but the Trans-Canada Highway between us and Toronto certainly felt like being thrown in at the deep end.

But it turned out that RVing is a world away from camping – and Canada’s the perfect place to try it.

We crossed the wide-open prairies, explored the underground history of Moose Jaw, watched the sunset over Lake Superior, hiked through rainbows at Kakabeka Falls and canoed through lily pads at Algonquin Provincial Park (Ontario).

And being in the RV meant we got the benefits of camping – the beautiful landscapes, the nights round the campfire, the feeling of being back to nature – but without having to rough it.

CANADA BY RV

Climb on board Although I'm more a budget than a five-star traveller, a comfortable bed, decent toilets, hot showers, space to unpack and somewhere to keep the wine cold are a must.

My nightmares of camping trips past, of freezing nights and sweltering mornings in a tent, faded quickly. RV life is more like a mini-mobile apartment. Our RV Cruise Canada ‘Standard’ model, was 25 ft long with two double beds, a toilet, shower and kitchen with gas cooker, fridge-freezer and sink.

You can also get a smaller three-person Compact model or a seven-person Large model. It’s a good tip to go bigger than you need. Ours slept five but would be perfect for two or three adults, or a couple and two kids. Any more than that and you’d be tripping over Lucy Dodsworth booked her RV through each other. Make sure you go Cruise Canada (cruisecanada.com). Other tour with someone you get on with operators who sell tailormade RV trips include – RVing requires teamwork 1st Class Holidays (cholidays.com/canada), and there’s not much room for Prestige Canada (prestigecanada.co.uk), Canadian Sky (canadiansky.co.uk) personal space.

RV life is a digital detox from the TVs, computers and phones of modern life, although Internet addicts can get their fix with a portable wifi device that works off the phone signal. But in National and Provincial Parks the signal often doesn’t stretch so you’ll have an enforced technology sabbatical. This leaves more time to spend outside.

The evening campfire was one of my favourite trip rituals: getting the fire going, searching for the perfect marshmallow toasting stick, talking about what we’d seen and planning where to visit next.

One of the bonuses of RV travel is having plenty VANCOUVER ISLAND: Drive a circle of storage, both inside and underneath the RV. Once from Victoria, visit wild beaches, you’ve unpacked you don’t need to pack up again surf in Tofino, taste your way around until the end of your trip. And if you go out for the wineries and breweries and spot day and realise you should’ve worn a jumper or whales and bears. need sunscreen, it’s all there with you.

Book it!

LUCY'S FIVE RV ADVENTURES

Campsite life Campsite facilities vary and depend on their location and size. Larger, privately run sites can

BANFF AND JASPER: Vancouver to Calgary past snow-capped mountains, blue lakes and glaciers.

QUEBEC: Explore Canada's Frenchside by visiting the cities of Montréal and Québec, national parks in the coastal Gaspé Peninsula and hiking and wine tasting around the Eastern Townships.

NOVA SCOTIA: Follow the Cabot Trail for beaches, dramatic cliffs, seals and whales, lighthouses and lobster.

Toasting marshmallows

YUKON: Circuit from Whitehorse through Gold Rush towns, wild landscapes, historic Dawson City, the world’s smallest desert – and maybe Aurora Borealis.

Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario

have shops, cafés and swimming pools. You’re also likely to get a full hook-up where you can connect your power, water and sewage from your pitch.

But most of the time we were in Provincial Park campgrounds which were more back to nature.

There was usually a reception where you’d check in and could stock up on ice and firewood, plus toilet blocks with laundry facilities.

It's the location that makes Canadian campsites special. We parked next to lakes, waterfalls and forests. My favourite spot was at Lake Superior Provincial Park (Ontario). The campsite ran along the edge of the lake with just two rows of RVs surrounded by tall pine trees. Ten metres away was a huge sandy beach and a lake that stretched as far as you could see. Wildlife is all around. We had gophers popping up next to us in Regina Beach and a raccoon raiding our neighbour's cool box in Killarney Provincial Park (Ontario).

One of the nicest things about RVing is that it’s so much more sociable than being in a hotel. Everyone spends their time outside so it’s easy to get chatting. We toasted Canada Day with a neighbour in Regina Beach (Saskatchewn) and were lent a power cord by another in Aaron Provincial Park (Ontario). RVing's not just for retirees either, there were couples, families and friends, international travellers as well as Canadians.

Where to go?

Coastal drives, cross-country adventures, mountains, National Parks – the choices are endless. It might be tempting to wing it and see where you end up, but the best campsites get booked up, especially in summer, at SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

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CANADA BY RV

"WILDLIFE IS ALL AROUND. WE HAD GOPHERS POPPING UP NEXT TO US IN REGINA BEACH"

Kakabeka Falls, Ontario

weekends and in popular areas. So it’s a good idea to plan your route and book stays in advance. We spent the first four days of our trip crossing the prairies before slowing down and hopping Provincial Parks in Ontario, spending a couple of nights in each so we had time to explore.

We planned to arrive at our campsites by 14.00, while it was still light, so that we could set up the RV, light a campfire and stretch our legs. It’s recommended not to drive at dawn or dusk as moose and deer venture onto the roads.

Regina Beach campsite

The quickest route is usually via the highways but if you get off the main roads there’s more to see, so factor in plenty of time in case you spot something interesting. Being in the RV means you can stop and make a cup of tea or snack when you feel like it.

The thing with RVing is that it's addictive. The freedom to go wherever you fancy, the convenience, the chance to dip your toes in the outdoor lifestyle without roughing it. The only question left is where next? Maybe the Rockies or Newfoundland – but who knows where the road will take us?

JULY 15-30, 2017 FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT

hahaha.com

ONTARIO

On the move

ON THE MENU

Mushroom hunt in the Carolinian forest

WALK ON THE WILD SIDE Taking it easy on holiday isn't for everyone. If you've got clients who really revel in adventure, suggest the Pukaskwa National Park Hike, from Naturally Superior Adventures. The five-day trek is billed as 'Ontario's most remote, challenging and rewarding' wilderness hike and snakes 45km from White Gravel River to Hattie Cove. The trail through boreal forest and over Canadian bedrock features views of Lake Superior – in fact, it can only be reached by water. Participants carry their own gear (tent, sleeping bag etc) and are accompanied by a local guide. naturallysuperior.com

CHEESY DOES IT

Back in Toronto, local operator Culinary Adventure Co. (culinaryadventureco. com) curates guided tours around the communities in and out of Toronto including a paddle tour to the Toronto Islands for a gourmet picnic. The City Mouse and Country Mouse tours offer a glimpse behind the scenes at local cheesemakers, while a Cheese and Cheers tour explores Toronto's brewing heritage. For those with a sweeter tooth, a trip to Prince Edward County reveals the secret to making maple syrup. Off the beaten track, Grand Experiences (grandexperiences.com) offers the chance to step back in time and explore St Jacob's in southwest Ontario.

The town is famous for its Mennonite inhabitants, a Christian group similar to the Amish, and boasts many historic buildings and traditional crafts. Its tour features a cycle trip through St Jacob's, lunch at a Mennonite farm and brewery tour on day one, plus canoeing along the Grand River on day two.

LONG POINT ECOADVENTURES

Making the most of the region's food is a great way to explore. In southern Ontario is the farming community of Long Point, and here visitors can experience life in the wilds of Norfolk County courtesy of Long Point EcoAdventures (lpfun.ca). Camping pods, mountain biking and zip line and canopy tours are all featured, and real 'fun guys' will love the company's Mushroom Foray, which pairs a mushroom hunt in the Carolinian forest with wine tasting and a meal cooked by an acclaimed local chef. Meanwhile, South Georgian Bay celebrates its signature product with the Apple Pie Trail (applepietrail.com) – a year-round collection of activities for adventurous foodies that take place

around Blue Mountain Resort. In the warmer months, one of the most popular is the Pedal & Paddle excursion, a 40km self-guided cycle ride that includes a trip on the Blue Mountain gondola through the apple trees, and hour-long kayak trip along Beaver river.

Blue Mountain Resort

CANADIAN TOURISM COMMISSION

ith the CN Tower and trendy Kensington market among its highlights and the all-conquering R'n'B star Drake in residence, Toronto has plenty to lure first-time visitors.

But there's lots more to Ontario than eyecatching major city landmarks and rappers, especially for holidaymakers with an adventurous spirit. Getting out and about in the province can be richly rewarding, and there are plenty of quirky attractions and experiences that allow a look at Ontario from unusual angles!

ONTARIO TOURISM

W

Strike out from the city and explore Ontario's 58 signature experiences and discover all the province has to offer

Off the beaten track in Ontario

SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

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DESTINATION CANADA: ONLINE TRAINING

CANADASPECIALIST.COM

Look out!

Destination

GET IN THE DRIVING SEAT!

Brush up on Canada

Canada is laun an elite le vel for CSP ching later this agents year – so keep read Selling Ca ing nada for al l the news. canadasp .. ecialist.c om

Be the best

If you want to sell more of Canada, the CSP really is a no-brainer!

LISTEN to these Canada Specialist agents discuss what thw CSP means to them:

Ken Garrity, Owner, Ken Garrity Travel "The ongoing training you get from the CSP makes it a must for all wannabe Canada specialists, because you obtain so much information.

"The events are full of facts and fun. As a CSP, the backing you get from Adam and Roger at Destination Canada is super – and as they have seen most of Canada their expertise is valuable.

"I won 'Best Canada Specialist Agent UK' in 2010/11, thanks to the knowledge and expertise I gained from being a CSP agent.

"Over the last 30 years I have been on several fams on the back of the CSP, visiting both eastern and western Canada. These are hugely valuable trips, giving first-hand knowledge which I feel is essential to sell a destination.

"So get on board now for Canada training!"

Charmaine Hallmark Hallmark Travel “I think the first thing to emphasise is the support that the CSP offers Canada Specialists – they always have time to listen and then they offer practical solutions, for ecample, a contact for a difficult enquiry or a useful website.

"You can’t sell such a fabulous destination at the counter – you have to bring it to life, with pictures, a comfy chair and a glass of wine! As a CSP agent, I have had Destination Canada attend my consumer evenings, bringing marketing collateral, brochures and, most of all, enthusiasm for the destination. Together, we just blow the clients away!

Destination Canada is our friend and wants us to succeed. They enjoy our triumphs as much as we do. My advice to agents out there trying to sell Canada? Don’t do it alone! Use the CSP, you have all the help and every answer you need, at the end of an email."

Canada Specialist Pat Waterton of Langley Travel, Hertfordshire takes delivery of her Canada in a Box Kit from Adam Hanmer, Travel Trade Manager, Destination Canada (See panel right for details).

GET THE LOWDOWN The CSP is an educational tool designed by Destination Canada to provide agents with specialist knowledge and boost their bookings.

Learn online, anytime, anywhere, via fun, interactive tools. On completion you will be recognised as a Canada Specialist and get access to sales tools, marketing resources and benefits including fams and referrals.

BOX CLEVER Agents who complete the CSP will be sent a box of promotional items to help them sell Canada even more successfully! It includes:

• Personalised mini-popup desk banner, badge, window sticker and certificate designating you as a Canada Specialist • Double-sided hanging window display • Fun Canada-themed bunting • A pop-up Canada display

New information is always being added to the CSP, including regular webinars covering new products and province updates.

For more information, contact sales support's Roger Harris:

destinationcanadatrade@gmail.com

VISIT CANADASPECIALIST.COM AND REGISTER TODAY TO GAIN ACCESS TO 8 TRAINING MODULES

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SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

ITINERARIES

Itineraries

Route planning Suggest a Celtic-flavoured loop around the wild Atlantic island of Newfoundland or a circle through Alberta's Badlands and prairies with some Rocky Mountain vistas as a memorable bonus

THE IRISH LOOP

St. Johns

For the craic

Cape Broyle

For the craic – The Irish Loop winds 300km through an area of Newfoundland settled by Irish immigrants. It provides a window on the province’s breathtaking scenery.

The sheltered harbours here are now a centre for sea kayaking tours. Paddle through sea caves and under waterfalls to 'meet 'whales, seabirds and icebergs.

Bay Bulls NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR

Bay Bulls

Witless Bay

Ferryland Lighthouse

Avalon Wilderness Reserve

One of Newfoundland’s oldest fishing communities is also a departure point for a host of puffin- and whale-watching tours. Attractions include North Head Lighthouse.

Standing on this rugged bluff since 1870, the Ferryland Lighthouse serves 'substantial' picnics. Looking out to sea, it feels like you couldn’t be further from civilisation!

Cape Broyle

Ferryland Lighthouse

Witless Bay

Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve

Take a boat trip into a blizzard of nesting seabirds. Atlantic puffins, storm petrels and razorbills are among the species that call this wild reserve home.

The cliffs here date back 580 million years and hold more large fossils than any other site. Book a tour to discover the origins of life.

Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve

SOUTHERN ALBERTA LOOP Iconic vistas

Medicine Hat

The Southern Alberta loop takes in the pine forests, wideopen prairies and multicoloured canyons and rock formations of the Canadian badlands – a memorable drive.

This historic city in the Prairies is the perfect spot to get reacquainted with nature.

Paddle the South Saskatchewan River and explore its numerous parks and walking trails.

Calgary

Each July the city hosts the world-famous Calgary Stampede. Calgary is rich in western culture and has a thriving arts and culinary scene.

ALBERTA

Banff National Park Banff

Drumheller

Drumheller

Ninety minutes east of Calgary, in the heart of the Badlands, Drumheller is known as the Dinosaur Capital of the World. Check out the Royal Tyrrell Museum to see the world’s largest Triassic beast!

Waterton Lakes National Park

Calgary

Medicine Hat

This small Canadian Rockies park is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an international peace park and a biosphere. Hike trails to spot wildlife or swim in the lake.

Banff Waterton Lakes National Park BRITISH COLUMBIA

In Canada’s first national park, this town is a winter haven perfect for hiking or skiing.

Recommend taking a dip in the healing thermal waters.

SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

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DESTINATION CANADA: SOCIAL MEDIA

 @DESTINATIONCAN

 EXPLORECANADA

THE WILDLIFE OF CLAYOQUOT SOUND GOING WILD IN B.C

EXPLORE CANADA

 EXPLORE CANADA

INSTA-WOW

Blog

TRAVEL With Kat to the wilds of Vancouver Island in her atmospheric blog about Clayoquot Sound's bears, whales and sea creatures: "As the ebbing tide withdraws, a rich mosaic of life is revealed, clinging resolutely to the rocks and one another – barnacles attached to limpets attached to mussels attached to seaweed attached to rocks.

"Yet more creatures scuttle into crevices and beneath the stones. It takes a hardy being to survive the turmoil of life in the intertidal zone on Canada’s wild Pacific coast." travelwithkat.com

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MANITOBA

"Having a blast with my #fortwhytealive Seasons pass, it pays for itself!" said @youngshots_photography

COSY QUEBEC 

NLtweets

Blog

"Our little cute house during our visit to @repereboreal #lovelyplace." @fredemck in frozen Charlevoix, Québec

BLUE SKIES

#NOFILTER NEEDED HERE LOOK at this bluer than blue sky on Tracey Hill Trail, Red Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador - spring is on the way for sure! "We like think the #nofilter trend started here," said @NLtweets.

EAT MONTRÉAL

Blogger Stuart Forster got tips from Montréaler Danny Pavlopoulos, founder of Spade and Palacio Tours. His favourite place to eat? The modern Orange Rouge in Chinatown. go-eat-do.com

Win Canadian goodies!

WORDSEARCH

Find the words horizontally, vertically, diagonally, forwards and backwards and send us your answers today!

The words to find are: Clayoquot, Mennonite, Shediac, Rodeo, Puffin, Ferry, Whale, Ontario NAME:

AGENCY:

ADDRESS: PHONE NUMBER:

RURAL SASK

POSTCODE:

EMAIL:

ABTA NO:

This moody rural scene is by @darcyconn and taken on his epic road trip around Saskatchewan.

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TO ENTER: Post to: BMI Publishing Ltd, Suffolk House, George Street, Croydon, Surrey, CR9 1SR. Put Selling Canada Spring/Summer 2017 (Wordsearch) on the back of the envelope. Or fax this page to: 020 8649 7234 (Feel free to make copies so a colleague can enter too). Closing date is June 15 2017.

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SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2017

Around here, not all flights require boarding passes.

It’s 5 hours from London Heathrow to St. John’s direct. And you get 31/2 of them back. Year-round flights. Visit aircanada.com, call 0871 220 1111, or contact your travel agency.