Selling Canada Spring Summer 2018

SPRING/SUMMER 2018 | TRAINING FOR THE TRAVEL TRADE

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ATLANTIC CANADA

Blazing a trail

ROCKIES IN THE SUMMER

How clients can be driven to distraction far away from the crowds

BLUE PLANET

Where to spot whales and other marine life on Canada's three coasts

GIVE YOUTH ITS HEAD

Epic scenery and great adventures for younger family members

PLUS... CANADA SHARED, BACTA AWARDS, VICTORIA, B.C., WALKING WITH POLAR BEARS... AND MORE

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Fly direct from London Gatwick to Toronto, Canada.

Our new service starts 01 May 2018, three times per week during the British summer months.

To find out more visit batraveltrade.com

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NEWS SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2018

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04 Destination Canada Update 06 Canada Shared 07 Aboriginal Tourism 08 News to use 12 BACTA Awards

FEATURES 18 The Hidden Canadian Rockies 24 Youthful Canada 26 Canada's Blue Planet

QUICK READS

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11 Tourism Saskatchewan 14 Churchill Wild 15 Great Canadian Experiences 16 Alberta 22 City Profile: Victoria 23 Québec 29 Atlantic Canada 30 DC Interview: Ben Cowan Dewar 31 Ontario 32 Social Media 33 Just for Fun 34 Great Driving FRONT COVER: CELTIC SHORES COASTAL TRAIL / NOVA SCOTIA TOURISM PUBLISHED BY BMI PUBLISHING LTD, SUFFOLK HOUSE, GEORGE STREET, CROYDON, SURREY, UK, CR9 1SR • T: 020 8649 7233 E: ENQUIRIES@BMIPUBLISHING.CO.UK • W: BMIPUBLISHING.CO.UK PUBLISHER: SALLY PARKER; EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: STEVE HARTRIDGE; JOURNALIST: JESSICA POOK; CREATIVE DIRECTOR: MATT BONNER; DESIGNER: ZOE TARRANT; PRODUCTION MANAGER: CLARE HUNTER; MANAGING DIRECTOR: MARTIN STEADY • WHILST EVERY EFFORT IS MADE TO ENSURE ACCURACY, BMI PUBLISHING CANNOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS OR OMISSIONS.

A view to thrill

Niagara Helicopters Flightseeing Tours

Niagara Helicopters 905 357 5672 niagarahelicopters.com

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4 | destination canada welcome

Snow shortage of Rocky thrills

DC update NEWS from DESTINATION CANADA

Agents wanted to Explore Canada This winter I joined a ski FAM trip to the Canadian Rockies. The conditions were perfect and the resorts – Sunshine, Lake Louise and Marmot Basin ( Jasper) – all looked spectacular.

But winter in Canada is not just about the great skiing.

In fact, a winter trip to the majestic Rockies and the Icefields Parkway is a photographer’s dream – and without the summer crowds.

Beyond the ski hills there are loads of soft adventure options for your clients including ice canyon walks, snow tubing, snowshoe treks, dog sledding and even stargazing in a dark sky preserve.

Elsewhere, here at Destination Canada we are excited about launching our new Elite Level Canada Specialists Programme. This new tier recognises some of our top-selling agents – some of whom will be joining us on a very special FAM trip this June (see story on next page) We are preparing for our annual UK roadshows in June.

For the key details see the story on this page.

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

Selling Canada spring/summer 2018

Destination Canada and its industry partners are taking Canada out on the road again this summer.

Travel agents are invited to sign up for the Keep Exploring events in Birmingham ( June 13), Exeter ( June 14), London ( June 18) and Manchester ( June 19).

Canada’s provinces and territories, airlines, trains, hotel companies and others will be among those present on the evenings to showcase the best of what Canada has to offer holidaymakers in 2018.

The events will feature the popular Keep Exploring Quiz, with one winner at each destination taking home a pair of tickets to Canada. There will also be a host of runner-up prizes.

Adam Hanmer, Travel Trade Manager at Destination Canada said: “Taking Canada out to cities across the UK is an

essential component of our Canada Specialist Programme… the evenings are designed to be both fun and informative.”

Agents who have attended past Keep Exploring events agree.

Said Charlotte Craig of Bakewell Travel: “It was such a great evening and a very interesting format - so much better than the usual ‘round robin’ type events”

eTAs point the way to Canada 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 C$7 is not an official government site and should be avoided.

Julie Morris of Jaunt Travel added: “I learnt so much, the exhibitors were all great. I came come away with great ideas and enthusiasm to expand and grow my Canada business.”

Agents can sign up by contacting destinationcanadatrade@gmail. com, and indicating which city they wish to attend. destinationcanada.com

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

• An eTA is valid for five years or until the passport expires, whichever is 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 an email address.

• Travellers can only apply for one person at a time.

For example, for a family of three they would need to complete and submit the form three times.

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

DESTINATION CANADA NEWS | 5

VIP trip awaits top sellers

"

Canada creates Elite agents DESTINATION CANADA has added a new Elite band to its Canada Specialist Programme (CSP).

“The idea is to celebrate and support our very best agents,” commented Adam Hanmer, Manager, Travel Trade, Destination Canada.

The first intake of Elite sellers features 20 agents, who have been granted membership for two years until the end of 2019.

Selection was based on the agents’ Canada sales over the last two years.

Added Hanmer: “Benefits include an online Elite listing on our Keep Exploring website, a VIP Elite agents event in London in October, and, for some, a ‘special’ fam trip in June with Air Canada visiting Montréal, Moncton and St. Johns."

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AGENTS selected in the first tranche of Destination Canada’s Elite agents are looking forward to the benefits the status brings.

Sue Kinton (above right) of Shrewsbury-based Peakes Travel said it was recognition for the agency’s impressive Canada sales.

“We have a great team here who are all CSP qualified and have a real depth of knowledge so it is a team effort. Our twin polar bear BACTA trophies are in our shop window at the moment, alongside a dedicated Canada display.

“We are shouting about our Elite status to all customers who enquire about Canada, have posted about our success on Facebook and are even planning to put out a press release!”.

Sue is looking forward to the

first Elite agents’ fam trip, to Eastern Canada, in June. “I am very excited…most of the areas on the trip will be new to me so it will give me a further insight into what is on offer on the east coast. Once you have experienced a place yourself you can talk about it with much more confidence and clarity.”

Another Elite agent, Maria Millard (above left) of Miles Morgan Travel in Wells, Somerset, said: “Being recognised as one of Canada’s best sellers is great for our clients who will know they have booked with agents who have first-hand knowledge.”

She added: “I am really looking forward to the fam…it’s a region of Canada I have not seen before.”

The time to visit Canada is ‘now’ CANADA is now widely seen as a destination near the top of visitors' ‘must visit soon’ list rather than a desirable destination that will be ticked off one distant day, says Rupert Peters, Destination Canada’s Regional Managing Director for Europe, Australia & India.

“Our challenge has always been to convert awareness and affection for Canada into bookings, but people are realising the time to visit is now.

“Firstly, our consumer marketing has got a lot smarter…

I think we are now really understanding what sparks people’s inspiration and how to drive them to book.”

He added: “At Destination Canada we have moved to provide inspirational content and nice snappy videos – content is definitely king now – to give people an understanding of what they can do in Canada beyond the iconic experiences on offer.

“Plus we are getting a lot smarter at making sure our consumer channel talks to our trade channel. Our travel trade partners want to understand Canada better and we are working hard to deliver the right content for them – such as our Canada Shared show in February, our Keep Exploring agent evenings in June, our trade media partnership with Selling Canada and many others.”

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6 | NEWS TO USE: canada shared 2018

Canada's signature day

Saskatchewan shares stories CANADA Shared provided the perfect showcase to get the word out about one of Canada's lesserknow provinces, said Michaela Arnold, German market representative for Tourism Saskatchewan.

"It is probably the most underrated province in the whole of Canada. Even many tour operators and travel agents don’t really understand what it offers but we were here at Canada Shared to provide updates and insights," she said.

"Saskatchewan has amazing adventures to suit every client and they get to see the real and unique Canada."

New in Saskatoon, known as The Paris of the Prairies because of its thriving arts scene, is Remai Modern. The $80-million museum is a major showcase of modern and contemporary art. tourismsaskatchewan.com

LEADING UK and European tour operators and UK Canada Specialist travel agents met with 32 Canadian Signature Experiences (CSE) at Destination Canada’s biannual trade showcase, Canada Shared, in late February.

The weather outside Canada House in London could have passed for a snowy Canadian winter day, but inside business was brisk.

“The tenacity of the trade in making their way to London on what was probably a once-in-a decade or so weather happening, shows their great commitment to Canada as a destination. The suppliers who had come all the way from Canada to showcase their experiences were certainly impressed,” commented Adam

Hanmer, Travel Trade Manager, Destination Canada.

Among the CSE experiences in London was the RCMP Heritage Centre in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, whose Manager of Guest Services, Dan Toppings, said: “A day like Canada is all about sharing the story with our potential international partners. I travel here to tell the story of the iconic red tunic of the Mounties and of Saskatchewan – and that is an opportunity I am not going to pass up.”

Since the CSE programme’s inception, the collection has grown to over 200 members.

Destination Canada works in partnership with all 13 Canadian provincial and territorial marketing organizations to build and maintain the collection.

Canada’s perfect short city break At less than five hours’ flying time from the UK, St. John’s, Newfoundland, makes for a viable and exciting city short break destination, said Lyndsey Thomas, who represents the destination in the UK. "It is a bit like Reykjavik, with a Scandinavian feel, and you don’t even need to rent a car to enjoy what it has to offer. From which other city can you sit and watch icebergs migrating down (Iceberg Alley) or see humpback whales breaching out in the ocean?”

“The cuisine is great – one of Canada’s best restaurants Raymonds is located there – and in the province at large there are some outstanding products like Fogo Island Inn, a hotel on an island off Newfoundland which perches atop long wooden legs.

She added: By taking Air Canada’s year-long service from Heathrow, you can be eating fresh seafood at lunchtime on the same day you leave London.” destinationstjohns.com

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Save up to 50%

when booked by 30 April 2018

0131 243 8097 www.ski-i.com

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Image: Paul Morrison, Whistler Blackcomb

Huge Savings on 2018/19 Canada Ski Holidays

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NEWS TO USE: ABORIGINAL TOURISM | 7

Canada has story to be told

National museum's new History Hall THE Canadian Museum of History (CMH) in Québec has introduced a Canadian History Hall - the largest exhibition about Canadian history ever presented.

The hall occupies more than 4,000 sq ms, broken down into three galleries and displays 1,500 authentic artifacts including some national historical treasures.

A popular attraction at the museum is the world's largest indoor collection of totem poles that represent the legacy and achievements of Canada's First People.

"There is no glossing over of history. Good or bad we show it from all sides and perspectives," said Stephanie Fortin, Head of Tourism and Group Sales. historymuseum.ca

THE fast-maturing range of Canada's indigenous tourism products was evidenced at Canada Shared, held at Canada House in London.

A collection of 11 Aboriginal experiences, all part of the Canadian Signature Experiences programme designed to help destinations and products increase their international reach, attracted plenty of interest from attending UK and European tour operators.

Sebastien Desnoyers-Picard

of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada said: "We have a story that needs to be told and I feel now it has an audience that wants to hear it.

"Tourists have a deeper appreciation for the culture of Canada and now want to learn more about our history and traditions." He added: "It is extremely enriching to have so many authentic experiences available for tourists and to be able to showcase our culture."

THE SQUAMISH Lil'wat Cultural Centre in Whistler, British Columbia, offers visitors guided tours and interactive workshops for a hands-on cultural experience. Hourly tours, presented by a First Nations ambassador from the Squamish or Lil'wat Nations, details the lives, legends and history of indigenous peoples.

Visitors can make their own traditional cedar bracelet or dream catcher in the crafting workshop to take home. SLCC.ca

indigenoustourism.ca

Hotel-Musee offers cultural immersion THE Hotel-Musee Premieres Nation, situated in Wendake, Québec, offers an insight into First Nations culture through original artifacts and themed rooms. Clients looking to more fully immerse themselves can enjoy an overnight stay in the traditional 'long house' - a hut located a few feet away from

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Discover the past

the hotel, and learn more at the neighboring Huron-Wendat Museum, which houses both permanent and temporary exhibits along with themed workshops. Wendake hosts a ‘Pow Wow’ each year ( June 29Jul1 2018), which is a celebration of First Nation heritage. tourismewendake.ca

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Richard Termine

8 | NEWS TO USE: canada's top stories

Brits on show in Halifax

Cirque du Soleil back in Ottawa Corteo, the latest arena tour from Cirque du Soleil, will be performed in Ottawa from June 27 to July 1 2018 at the Canadian Tire Centre. Through elaborate acrobatics, music and theatre, Corteo tells the story of the clown Mauro, who has passed but whose spirit remains. cirquedusoleil.com

Ocean house to open in B.C. Ocean House at Stads K'uns GawGa, B.C. is due to open in May 2018. The premium 12-room fly-in eco-lodge is anchored to the rugged coastline of Haida Gwaii's Peel Inlet. It will offer three-, four- and seven-night adventure packages. haidahouse.com

Halifax, Nova Scotia, is ready to put out the warmest of welcome mats for UK visitors in town for Canada’s annual trade show, Rendez Vous.

The event, which sees Canada’s destinations and tourism products meeting with travel buyers from around the world, will be held in the city between May 13-16.

And the city is ready for the British invasion, says Ben Cowan Dewar, Destination Canada’s Chairperson. “Halifax is excited about hosting Rendez Vous.

Visitors will discover a vibrant city is growing fast. It is a university town, with great bars and music

and some of the friendliest people in Canada. It also has a unique and very proud culture that owes a lot to its Scottish roots. The scene there is definitely focussed on great music.”

UK visitors who sign up for pre- and post-show fam trips will discover a province with much to offer, added Dewar.

“Obviously, Peggy’s Cove is an iconic image, but one of my favourite areas of Nova Scotia is Cape Breton. It has unbelievable natural beauty and great seafood, particularly the crabs and lobsters, which the entire Atlantic Canada region is known for.” rendezvouscanada.travel

Prestige growth Unprecedented consumer interest in booking a holiday to Canada has prompted Prestige Holidays to introduce a raft of new trade initiatives.

The operator is enjoying a bumper year for Canada sales, with year-on-year bookings in the first quarter up by around 25% over 2017.

The trade-friendly moves to help meet demand for Canada include boosting its reservations team with a new recruit, the launch of a new standalone website and three group fam trips for travel agents, the first of which will head out in May 2018.

The fam will feature Air Canada flights and a Rocky Mountaineer trip from Banff to Vancouver.

Denise Hunn, Prestige Holidays Canada Manager commented: “Canada is booming. It started last year, which resulted in availability issues, so many have been booking early for 2018." prestigeholidays.co.uk

DISCOVER CANADA FROM COAST TO COAST www.viarail.ca News to use.indd 8 Untitled-1 1

For more information about VIA Rail visit www.viarail.ca or contact info@viarail.co.uk

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NEWS TO USE: canada's top stories | 9

it's uphill for Hornblower

Skywalk looks on reversing rapids ViSitOrS to New Brunswick can now view the natural phenomenon of the ‘Reversing Rapids’ via a newly opened Skywalk.

The 100-foot high platform gives a high up view of the Bay of Funday’s huge high tide reversing the flow of the St. John’s River as it pushes through a narrow gorge. discoversaintjohn.com

Off eaten track in Vancouver tHe Railtown Urban Eats Tour with Off the Eaten Track is a new Canada Signature Experience in Vancouver. Visitors explore the heritage buildings of Railtown, one the city's oldest neighbourhoods which is now a magnet for trendy small eateries. offtheeatentracktours.ca

power a road trip fOr an experience they will not forget in a hurry, suggest clients drive the iconic Route 97, through the picturesque Okanagan region of British Columbia, behind the wheel of a Tesla - which accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds.

Rentals of the eco-style Model S are available through Power Trips. Rates start from £187 a day.

For a Route 97 driving itinerary, see page 34.

HOrnBlOWer Niagara Cruises, the only boat tour that operates on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls, will be unveiling a new attraction this spring.

The Funicular Incline Railway will provide visitors with unobstructed panoramic views of the Niagara Gorge, American Falls, and the Canadian Horseshoe Falls as they descend to Hornblower’s Lower Landing area.

Two glass-enclosed railway trams, each carrying 56 passengers, will significantly

increase Hornblower’s capacity to transport visitors to their boat tours and cruises.

In 2017, Hornblower completed an upgrade of its four elevators, reducing wait times and long lines.

This year the operator’s most popular excursion, Voyage to the Falls Boat Tour, will start operating on April 7 and will wrap up operations for the winter on November 30. Tickets cost C$25.95 for adults and C$15.95 for children. aged between 5-12. niagaracruises.com

powertrips.ca

Westjet links Halifax and Gatwick

WeStJet’S 2018 summer schedule includes a new nonstop daily service from Halifax, Nova Scotia, to London (Gatwick) and Paris. The flights will be operated on the airline's newest aircraft, the Boeing 737-8 MAX. The service to London launches on April 29 while the Paris route starts on May 31.

Flights will leave Gatwick at 09.50, arriving at 13.00. The return flight will depart Halifax at 22.35, arriving into Gatwick at 08.20 the following morning.

Westjet says the routes will run until October 27, at which point it will see if demand warrants a year-round service. westjet.com

uk

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10 | NEWS TO USE: canada's top stories

Beast of an east trip with ffestiniog FFESTINIOG Travel has an Eastern Canada in the fall tour that will take ‘leaf peepers’ off the usual tourist beat.

Guests will take the train through huge wilderness areas in Northern Québec and Ontario, enjoying the spectacular colours along the Saint Lawrence River, a scenic journey to Senneterre, and a stop in town of Moosonee, with just 1,360 residents (mostly First Nation Cree) in James Bay. A visit to Niagara Falls features, as does time in Montréal, Québec and Toronto.

There’s also a stop at the Cochrane Polar Bear Habitat in Cochrane, Ontario, the only captive bear facility in the world dedicated solely to conservation of these creatures.

Departing October 3 2018, the 14-day holiday costs from £3,585pp (two sharing) including flights (London) to Montréal from Toronto, transfers, all rail travel, excursions, room-only accommodation, and a tour leader. ffestiniogtravel.com

Award-winning Air Canada provides more daily non-stop flights from the UK to Canada than any other airline: four daily services from Heathrow T2 to Toronto, daily to Montreal, Ottawa and Calgary, plus regular services to Halifax and St. John’s.

Air Canada continues to renew its international fleet with state-of-the-art Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777-

Canada at the top CANADA’S panoramic alpine views, dramatic wilderness, wildlife-viewing opportunities and cosmopolitan cities were enough to wow voters in the Wanderlust Magazine Travel Awards 2018 and clinch the Top Country Award for the first time.

Vancouver (pictured) featured in the list of Top Ten Cities. The awards are based on Wanderlust readers' travels between December 2016 and November 2017.

WIN

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300ER aircraft featuring new passenger amenities.

International Business Class features lie-flat beds, priority airport services - including extra baggage allowance - Maple Leaf Lounge access and more. In Premium Economy Class passengers will experience a larger seat and extra legroom, plus priority airport services and extra baggage. In comfortable Economy Class passengers can enjoy a generous seat pitch, individual touchscreens with hours of on-demand entertainment and a hot meal with wines and spirits.

From June, Air Canada is launching an extra direct nonstop service from Heathrow to Vancouver - double-daily and using Air Canada’s newest Boeing 787 Dreamliner featuring all three classes: AC855: Departs Heathrow Daily: 10:05 Arrive Vancouver: 11:30 AC897: Departs Heathrow Daily: 16:15 Arrive Vancouver: 17:40

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT AIRCANADA.COM

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TOURISM SASKATCHEWAN

Boundary Bog Trail

Family fun at the shoreline

Space to breathe With woodland as far as the eye can see and an abundance of hiking trails to explore, clients are guaranteed some peace and quiet in Saskatchewan

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THE GREAT OUTDOORS Prince Albert National Park is one of Saskatchewan’s most popular four-season destinations, where clients can mix wilderness encounters with the comforts of a lakeside resort.

More than 150 km of hiking trails take visitors deep into the park to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, discover points of interest and, perhaps, come face-to-face with some of Canada's most famous wildlife. For clients who prefer to join a guided tour, Sundogs Excursions will lead guests on a transformative journey into the forest lead by informative guides. pc.gc.ca

SANDY SHORES Waskesiu Marina Adventure Centre takes the guesswork out of navigating lakes and enjoying water-based recreation. An extensive fleet of boat rentals provides clients with options to explore the area’s waterways, and the facility offers tours and

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askatchewan is big – almost 651,900 sq. km, to be precise. Lush boreal forest blankets one-half of the province and frames nearly 100,000 lakes. Prince Albert National Park is auspiciously located where rolling parkland meets forest and within the boundaries of the park, nature flourishes. The quiet and calmness of the landscape reflect the lifestyle here while time keeps pace with the carefree moose and elk that stroll the walkways.

customised excursions to suit guests’ needs and interests. Evening sunset cruises and lakeshore dining cruises are a relaxing way to wind down after a busy day exploring.

During the day, families can relax along sandy beaches and in pristine, shallow waters. Standup paddleboarding is a leisurely way to travel scenic shorelines. In addition to the Waskesiu townsite’s 600-metre-long main beach, there are five other beaches along Waskesiu Lake which make for a great family day out. waskesiumarina.com

STAY A WHILE

WORTH A VISIT THE LEGEND OF GREY OWL Grey Owl was a famed conservationist and enigmatic figure who warned of the dangers of abusing the natural world. His one-room log cabin on the shore of Ajawaan Lake is now a pilgrimage destination and only accessible by boat, canoe or hiking trail. pc.gc.ca

Nearby Elk Ridge Resort offers premier accommodations, fine dining and a luxurious spa under one roof. Its 18-hole golf course is one of Saskatchewan’s most popular and picturesque courses (unique, too, for the resident elk). Elk Ridge Resort is home to Treeosix Adventure Park, where guests can soar above the treetops via zipline, scale an outdoor climbing wall and blend adrenaline pumping activity with some of the relaxing amenities at this popular destination. elkridgeresort.com •

SELLING CANADA SPRING/SUMMER 2018

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12 | BACTA AWARDS

2018

Canada crowns champions Destination Canada and its industry partners returned to Canada House in London to unveil the winners of the 28th British Annual Canada Travel Awards (BACTA).

Working in partnership with the Canadian High Commission, Destination British Columbia, Travel Alberta, Travel Manitoba, Destination Ontario, Atlantic Canada Tourism Partnership, Québec Tourism Alliance, Saskatchewan Tourism and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, Destination Canada hosted over 160 agents, media and operators who were joined by representatives from 32 Canadian Signature Experiences (CSEs), who were in London to attend the Canada Shared event, also at Canada House, which introduces established and emerging Canadian tourism experiences to European Tour operators.

Destination Canada's Nim Singh, Manager, Media and Public Relations UK, and Adam Hanmer, Manager of Travel Trade UK, announced the winners across six categories which recognised excellence in promoting Canada throughout 2017/18.

Prestige Holidays was named Best Tour Operator, an award voted for by travel agents, while Trailfinders scooped the Keep Exploring Award.

In the media categories, the Best Online Canada Coverage award was handed to Dom Joly for his ‘Dom Joly has the ideal solution – Run away to Canada’ feature, while David Williams landed Best Canada Media Coverage for his ‘Why Canada hits the spot for a Last Ever Family Holiday’ piece.

But the only double winner was Peakes Travel Elite, who collected awards for both Best Travel Agency and Best Travel Agent. This went to Sue Kinton, a Senior Travel Consultant with the agency, who said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be here to pick up two awards for the store. We do really work well as a team so it means a lot to us to be recognised in this way by Destination Canada.

“Hopefully going forward we can continue to sell Canada as much as we have done in the past – it’s a great destination that almost sells itself. Our store is going from strength to strength and encouragingly we are finding that more people are coming back to the high street to book their holiday with a specialist.”

line-up of WINNERS Best Travel Agent Award: Sue Kinton, Peakes Travel Elite.

(NEW) Best Travel Agency: Peakes Travel Elite.

Best Tour Operator: (as voted for by travel agents) Prestige Holidays, represented by Denise Hunn.

Best Canada Media Coverage 2017: (as independently judged by industry experts) David Williams, Sunday Telegraph 'Why Canada hits the spot for a Last Ever Family Holiday' Best Online Canada Coverage 2018: (as independently judged by industry experts) Dom Joly, Mail Online. Dom Joly has the ideal solution – Run Away to Canada (ON) Keep Exploring Award: Trailfinders •

Prestige Holiday s

The BACTAS at Canada House

Best Tour Operator

Trailfin ders Peakes Travel E lite

Keep Exploring

Best Travel Agent

Nim Singh, Destination Canada

Selling Canada spring/summer 2018

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14 | CHURCHILL WILD Q&A

Churchill Wild...

Founded 25 years ago, Churchill Wild offers fly-in tours to four remote luxury properties near Churchill, Manitoba. Founders Mike and Jeanne Reimer explain all about the family-run operation

Q

What is Churchill Wild?

A: We are the premium wilderness polar bear product on the planet! If you want to see polar bears in the wild and stay at a high-end resort, you’re going to have to do it with Churchill Wild. We are the only people that do walking safaris with polar bears.

Q

Describe the guest experience A: Our efforts are directed at giving guests a once-in-a-lifetime, close encounter with Arctic wildlife.

Primarily that’s polar bears, beluga whales and wildlife local to the Hudson Bay.

It has some trees, some coastal vantages. You get similar wildlife to the other lodges but we don’t do any marine-based tourism there.

We only use it in October and November, and see polar bears, wolverines and wolves.

Q

Q

Tell us about your lodges A: Seal River is a true tundra lodge. It’s on the coast, north of the treeline. We access beluga whales there in the summertime, which we can’t at the other lodges.

It has a strong marine-based programme.

Nanuk, the newest lodge, has polar bears and Arctic wildlife and a large moose and wolf population, due to the proximity of the treeline. From mid-August to September there’s phenomenal shorebird and waterfowl migrations — we see deer falcons and snowy owls. Dymond Lake is an arboreal forest lodge, on the edge of the tundra.

Q

Which lodge would you suggest for first-time visitors?

A: I would suggest Seal River because in July and August you can experience such a wide variety of flora and fauna.

The days are long.

Towards the end of July you’re getting into a bit of Norther Lights at night.

You’ll see bears, swim with whales and see wildflowers. It’s a real broad mix of encounters and things to do.

What can guests experience in summer?

A: The chief difference is what we call birds, bears and belugas. You get bird species, incredible wildflowers and opportunities to swim with beluga whales.

The marine programme in July and August at Seal River really sets it apart from October and November, which is your winter freezeup and bears on snow and ice.

Q

Are polar bear sightings guaranteed?

A: Some experiences are more dramatic than others. But to go on one of our trips and not see a bear. I don’t recall that happening.

Q

How close do you get to Arctic animals?

A: Our marine tours get clients as close to a large mammal as is possible. The belugas are within less than a metre. Polar bears are easy to see as you can get quite close in a boat: inside of 25 metres is not unusual.

Q

What’s new for 2018?

A: We are testing a new trip in September at Nanuk. It combines wildlife viewing with fly fishing for speckled trout. We do a combo now, a dual lodge safari that starts at Seal River and ends at Nanuk.

Q

How far in advance should I book?

A: Clients need to book a year in advance. We’re already pretty much fully booked for 2018 - and availability is already limited for 2019.

Q

What tips can you can offer agents looking to sell Churchill Wild?

A: If you want a unique safari experience that’s on a par with the finest game lodges of Africa, South America or tiger lodges in India we rank right up there with the best. If you want a Arctic experience where you can stay in a remote, luxury lodge, experience fabulous food and wines and the best guides then this is the place to do it. churchillwild.com •

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GREAT CANADIAN EXPERIENCES | 15

Polar extremes Stuart Forster enjoys a guided walk on the tundra, in subarctic Manitoba, photographing wildlife such as Arctic hares, willow ptarmigan and – the big one – polar bears

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ctober and November are prime months for viewing polar bears in northern Manitoba. The bears are waiting for the Hudson Bay to freeze over, so that they can head out onto the ice to hunt seals. It’s also when Churchill Wild operates Polar Bear Photo Safaris, which are popular with photographers of all levels as well as wildlife enthusiasts.

The idea of joining a guided walking tour in a treeless landscape where hungry polar bears outnumber humans may seem foolhardy. As we sat by the fireside in Seal River Heritage Lodge BOOK IT! Derek, one of Churchill Wild’s windowsonthewild.com expert guides, explained that A seven-night Birds, Bears and Belugas tour the region’s bears had not is priced from £7,673pp including five nights at eaten for months and were Seal River Lodge with full-board, activities and capable of running at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour. He excursions, two nights in Winnipeg, flights to emphasized the importance and within Canada. An excursion in a tundra of following his instructions vehicle and three nights at Dymond Lake when out on the tundra and Lodge, with guided activities that, for safety, our dozen strong and meals group must stay together.

We’d already spotted moose and several polar bears along the shoreline during the 40-mile flight by light aircraft from Churchill — the only way of reaching the remote property. Our initial briefing in the lodge was interrupted by a bear outside, prompting people to grab phones and cameras to record the scene from the window.

The dancing Northern Lights

DRESSED FOR THE OCCASION Walking outdoors in windy, sub-zero temperatures requires specialist clothing.

Along with most of the other guests, rather than buying kit I’d rarely use again I rented a heavy parka, windproof trousers and insulated boots from Churchill Wild.

We had fittings at the airport hotel in Winnipeg, which is a two-hour flight south of Churchill. I was very glad to have the warm clothing, as the wind chill factor meant temperatures dipped to -16˚C out on the tundra by Seal River.

We went on two walking tours each day.

During one we visited a centuries- old campsite used by the Thule people, the

On the prowl ancestors of modern Innuit. Remarkably, circles of stones that once held shelters and the campfire were still clearly visible.

We spotted an arctic hare dashing between the stones and wandered to within just a few feet of a flock of willow ptarmigan, which are grouse-like birds.

SEEING THE LIGHTS Mealtimes proved a highlight of staying at the lodge. The hearty, homestyle cooking was served for us to share at tables in the dining room. Beers and a fine selection of Canadian wines were available. After dinners we had the option of attending lectures and slideshows presented by the lodge’s guides. I found them a fascinating way of learning about bear behaviour and nature in the Hudson Bay. The lecture on our final night ended abruptly due to Northern Lights activity. We flung on our coats and headed outside to watch green aurora dancing in the sky.

WALK ON THE WILD SIDE

Bear necessities

The walks provided opportunities to observe polar bears resting on the shoreline of the bay. At one point we huddled together as an 800lb male bear sauntered in our direction.

The thrilling, close encounter provided some outstanding photos and plenty for us to talk about back in the comfort of the lodge. •

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ALBERTA

Fresh tracks The Canadian Rockies aren't an obvious choice for first-time British skiers but Laura Gelder discovers mint conditions in Banff and Jasper make for quick improvement

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p until this moment in my life the point of snow was to make snowballs or snowmen but this Rockies stuff just won't do it.

I’m attempting to create a snowball and watching as this bone-dry white stuff scrunches away to nothing in my hand – magic! I’ve heard my ski friends talk dreamily of fresh powder and now, on my first day of skiing, I’m standing on it, and I suspect I am about to be spoilt for life.

SKIING ON SUNSHINE Sunshine Village seems huge but the small nursery slope sits snugly next to the lodge, should you need a hot chocolate or a toilet break - and time is of the essence when you have this many layers to grapple with!

Our British instructor soon has us up and running, albeit wobbly, and by the afternoon we're attempting a short green run down.

"My aim is to get you up the mountain as soon as possible because I want you to fall in love with skiing," Helen says. It's probably a tad too soon for me, but, sitting breathlessly in the snow with the sun in my face and white

peaks all around, I don't regret it for a second.

Had we had longer, there are myriad green runs as well as slow ski zones for nervous novices.

COSY NORQUAY Known as a locals resort, Norquay's (pronounced Nor-kway) warm and homely feel is great for learners who might feel intimidated by the whole 'ski set'. The fantastic nursery slope is huge compared to Sunshine's, and it's good thing too because I need a longer run to practise turns.

Music is pumping out, the sun is shining and our instructor is pleased with our progress. There's no time to hit the slopes but my advanced skier friends tell me the views are stunning, the runs beautifully quiet and that this compact resort is perfect for beginners and families.

LAKE LOUISE HIGHS The nursery slopes just keep getting bigger and this one has two magic carpets with slopes either side, making for four choices, plus a gentle half pipe which helps force me into turns and practise getting up speed. After

lunch we're up and away, gazing down at the fairytale Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

The way the mountain is graded here allows beginners to get up high and enjoy the same sweeping views as seasoned skiers, but be able to take a long and leisurely green all the way down (it's worth noting that some greens would be classed as blues elsewhere).

MARMOT BASIN BLUES Like Norquay, Jasper's Marmot Basin has a friendly local vibe. The nursery slope is small but the School House green run, just next to the lodge and reception, acts as a giant learners' slope - long, wide and gently undulating - the perfect place to hone my skills. My instructor Bree's enthusiasm is infectious and by the end of the day she's even snuck me onto a short blue run and I feel like I'm just out skiing with a friend.

It's taken four days but I've got the bug!

Alberta's relaxed vibe, professional, fun English-speaking instructors and fluffy snow make everything easy. It might not be the place which springs to mind for a first-time ski trip but no novice will regret it. •

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They say mountains change people, They say mountains change people, They say mountains change people, Theybut say mountains change people, but sometimes, they letbe youyourself. be yourself. but sometimes, they let you but but sometimes, they let you be yourself.

They say they mountains change people, but sometimes, let you be yourself.

Sun Peaks.

Where you belong.

They say mountains change people, Sun Where you Sun Peaks.

Where yoube belong. butPeaks. sometimes, they let belong. you yourself.

Sun Where you butPeaks. sometimes, they let belong. you be yourself.

Sun Peaks. Where you belong.

Sun Peaks. Where you belong.

Sun Peaks is a resort community located in the interior of British Columbia just 45 minutes from Kamloops, famous for offering an accessible, stress-free mountain experience unlike any other found in Canada. The European-style, pedestrian village includes nine hotels and lodges and over 40 locally-owned and operated shops and restaurants. Spring, summer and fall offers guests a wide range of leisure activities, featuring an 18-hole, par 72 golf course, a lift-accessed downhill mountain bike park, cross-country mountain biking, alpine hiking trails and a year-round line up sunpeaksresort.com sunpeaksresort.com

sunpeaksresort.com sunpeaksresort.com

of concerts, events and festivals.

sunpeaksresort.com sunpeaksresort.com

S U N P E A K S TO P 5 S U M M E R A C T I V I T I E S all skill levels to shine. The front nine offers a few challenges with tree-lined fairways meandering along the creek.

It requires delicate accuracy and some even suggest keeping the driver in the bag. Once you’ve warmed up, the back nine opens up with amazing vistas down the valley.

Lift-accessed mountain biking — it’s not just for daredevils.

Once the late spring hits, the snow melts in Sun Peaks’ alpine to reveal legendary mountain bike trails. The Sun Peaks Bike Park is one of those rare places that caters to all ability levels, you will find everything from green (beginner) to double black diamond (expert) trails at the top. Runs are aptly named with “Smooth Smoothie,” expect a smooth ride; “Root Dog,” say hello to exposed tree roots; “Insanity One,” well, leave this one to the advanced riders.

Golf here — you’ll feel better about your game.

Home to BC’s highest elevation golf course, with greens at over 1,200 metres above sea level, this guarantees that—as long as you can hit the ball straight—your ball will soar farther. The course is centred along the valley floor, surrounded by three mountains and beautiful scenery.

While the course provides many risk/ reward opportunities, it is also built for

Untitled-1 1

Stand up paddle boarding — walking on water is easier than it sounds.

Just minutes from Sun Peaks is beautiful Heffley Lake, surrounded by mountains and deep forest, making for

a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere when “walking on water.” Lessons or guided expeditions means you get to explore prime locations as you venture around the unique shoreline areas to see loons, fish, turtles and even the great blue heron that lives nearby.

yellows during the alpine blossom season, which runs mid-July to midAugust. Hiking enthusiasts can take the Sunburst Express up to midmountain and embark from over 1,800 metres above sea level. Home to 16 hiking trails that range from sightseeing strolls to breathtaking alpine summits, be sure to pack some layers to stay warm.

Horseback trail rides – the best views are from between your horse’s ears.

Take in the resort and views of the village as you travel from the Sun Peaks Stables using a mix of trails to explore the natural beauty that surrounds the community. Keep your eyes open for wildlife, including deer, black bear, fox and moose in their natural environment.

All horseback trail rides start with meeting your horse and helping to groom and saddle them. At the end of the ride you are welcome to assist with water buckets and hay or just hang around with your new friend for some pictures and pats.

Hiking in the alpine — the wildflowers are calling.

Indian Paintbrush, Tiger Lilies, Fireweed—the side hills are covered in deep purples, bright reds and

23/03/2018 14:44

18 | THE HIDDEN CANADIAN ROCKIES

take the

HIGH ROADS The Canadian Rockies are as iconic as maple syrup but how do you plan a driving trip that takes you to both the key attractions and hidden gems away from the crowds? Alex Wright reveals all

T

he Canadian Rockies are best seen in the summer months, when the snow has retreated and the vibrant colours of the alpine lakes, limestone peaks, forests and meadows come to life.

Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper are most people’s image of the Rocky Mountains but look beyond these popular destinations and there are a host of hidden treasures waiting to be explored, both among the mountains and further afield – whether your clients are into driving, climbing, hiking, mountain biking or just strolling the multitude of trails or looking to spend cosy nights spent around a campfire.

And you don’t have to travel far off those well-driven roads. For example,

the less-visited Vermillion Lakes are within walking distance from Banff and offer a stunning view of the iconic Mount Rundle at sunrise and sunset.

Climbing to the summit of Mt. Rundle, at 9,675 ft, is one of the most popular scrambles near Banff.

The two Parks Canada Red Chairs at nearby Mount Norquay Green Spot are another perfect selfie opportunity. Then there are the hidden caves and wildlife to explore at Johnston Canyon, one of the most popular day hikes in Banff National Park.

It’s fairly easy, making it perfect for families and people of almost any fitness level and age. The trail to the lower falls covers minimal elevation as it works its way through the forest. It then takes you over catwalks alongside Johnston creek and up into the canyon above the rushing

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THE HIDDEN CANADIAN ROCKIES | 19

Royal Tyrrell Museum waters below. As with many tourist attractions, for your clients to avoid the crowds suggest they arrive early in the morning or take advantage of the long daylight hours in the summer by turning up later in the day.

The farther you go on the trail the more the crowds will thin out. The upper falls trail is by no means a place of solitude in the summer, but the majority of people will not venture past the lower falls - and the large tour bus groups rarely have time to go beyond them.

Jurassic park Perhaps start your journey by taking a step back in time with a visit to Dinosaur Provincial Park in south eastern Alberta’s Badlands, about a two-anda-half-hour drive east of Calgary.

This 81-square kilometre UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the world’s largest collection of dinosaur fossils and bones.

Take a guided tour or explore one of the five trails at your leisure before dropping in on the Dinosaur Visitor Centre to check out the impressive range of dinosaur exhibits.

Then head to Horseshoe Canyon, off Highway 9

Waterton Lakes

Hitting the trail and 17km west of Drumheller, for a spectacular view of the Badlands.

Stand on the edge of this vast U-shaped canyon and survey the dramatic maroon-striped landscape dating back almost 70 million years before picking a trail and hiking to the bottom.

The canyon contains some of the most significant rock art in North America. The Great Gallery, its best-known panel, includes well-preserved, life-sized figures with intricate designs. Other impressive sights include spring wildflowers, sheer sandstone walls and mature cottonwood groves.

Continuing the prehistoric theme, make a beeline for the Royal Tyrell Museum of Paleontology: one of the world’s preeminent dinosaur museums.

As well as housing one of the largest dinosaur displays on the planet, including ‘Black Beauty', a 67-million-year-old T-rex, the museum also offers a range of fun and educational programmes that bring the past to life.

Dinosaur Provincial Park

Avoiding the herd The dubious-sounding Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump should be the next port of call. For almost 6,000 years the indigenous Blackfoot people used the cliffs 18km northwest of Fort Mcleod to hunt buffalo and you can now walk (or run) in their footsteps along the cliff trail to the point where the buffalo plunged to the ground or watch the films of the real thing in next door’s interpretive center.

Follow your compass south to Waterton Lakes National Park, where the prairies of Alberta meet the peaks of the Rocky Mountains.

Remember to pack your passport for a two-hour cruise across Upper Waterton Lake to the far shore of Goat Haunt in Montana, USA. For a different perspective of this 525-sq km reserve, hike the Red Rock Canyon for a stunning view of the Blakiston Falls, mountains, wildflower meadows and, possibly, the odd grizzly.

Bunk down at the 1920s-era Prince of Wales Hotel on the lakefront for a spectacular room with a view the next morning.

The best way to explore this vast network

BOOK IT

PREMIER HOLIDAYS 08444 937 666 New for 2018, the 16-night Western Canada Rocky Mountain Experience takes in Vancouver, Whistler, Sun Peaks, Clearwater, Jasper, Banff, Waterton Lakes National Park, Rossland and Osoyoos.

Prices start from £2,449pp. trade.premierholidays.co.uk This self-drive tour includes accommodation, return flights, car hire and insurance, running from May 1.

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20 | THE HIDDEN CANADIAN ROCKIES

Hit the back roads

Glacier Skywalk

of routes throughout the reserve is by foot, bicycle or car. There’s everything from a leisurely 20-minute drive along the Akamina Parkway to a gruelling six-hour hike across Crypt Lake Trail, culminating in a crawl through a narrow rocky tunnel to Crypt Lake on the other side.

Those who enjoy taking things at a slower pace should grab their paddle and head north again for the Bow River. Paddling offers a great way to escape the crowds, enjoy some beautiful scenery all your own and keep fit at the same time.

Great outdoors Tim Greathead, Canada Product Executive for Premier Holidays, recommends a trip to the less well-known Wells Grey Provincial Park in British Columbia, on the edge of the Rockies.

It’s a stunning area of alpine wilderness, borne from volcanoes and carved by glaciers.

“It is definitely worth spending a day, or even an afternoon if you are short of time, in the park,” he said. “Here you can hike through ancient forests, paddle in glistening lakes and raft on some of Canada’s fiercest rapids all year round. The park also boasts some fantastic walking trails, 14

Paddle the Rockies

DON'T MISS...

Take a gondola ride up Whitehorn Mountain for stunning views of the picture-postcard Lake Louise.

Explore the 400-yearold Athabasca Glacier by foot or on a Snocoach.

Admire the spectacular mountain scenery of peaks, waterfalls and glacial lakes with a breathtaking drive across the Icefields Parkway. The 230-mile parkway between Jasper and Yoho National Park is one of Canada’s great drives – but get up early and hit the road before the crowds do.

Feed your adrenaline with a trip up the glass-floored Glacier Skywalk, 280 metres above the Sunwapta Valley.

Enjoy some retail therapy in the shops and bars of Banff.

waterfalls, canoeing, kayaking and the chance to spot bears and other wildlife.

“It can be easily explored using Clearwater as a base, or alternatively you can stay a little closer to the park at Helmcken Falls lodge or one of a number of ranches that surround the park. Car hire is essential to get to and from Wells Grey.”

Brian Hawe, Brand Manager at First Class Holidays, suggests visitors should explore Marble Canyon, which surrounds Tokumm Creek, just above its confluence with the Vermilion River, at the north end of Kootenay National Park in the Canadian Rockies of British Columbia.

“On the drive from Banff to Lake Louise head off the Banff-Windermere highway to hike along the Vermillion River valley and explore Marble Canyon,” he said. “If you’re in a motorhome perhaps stay overnight at the campground there and embrace Canada’s wilderness.”

For a real taste of the great outdoors, camp out under the stars in one of the host of campgrounds or RV parks.

For those who enjoy their home comforts stay in a hotel in the more underpopulated resorts of Canmore, Kananaskis or Waterton.

And the best way to get around? The beauty is that there are so many, said Denise Hunn, Manager – Canada and USA Portfolio, Prestige Holidays.

“Getting around the Rockies is very easy, either by car, motorhome or sightseeing coach services,” she said. “Self-driving provides the freedom to stop anywhere along the journey for sightseeing or wildlife spotting, while the sightseeing coach services are great for those who don’t want to drive.” •

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THE HIDDEN CANADIAN ROCKIES | 21

COMBINE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER WITH AN ALASKA CRUISE.

Did you know that over 40% of guests pair their Rocky Mountaineer journey with an Alaska cruise?

From the jaw-dropping icebergs, to the majestic Canadian Rockies, a Rocky Mountaineer journey is the perfect match. Give our Vacation Consultants a call for more details.

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

Rockies Untitled-2in the 1 summer.indd 21

3/27/18 06:17 PM 16/03/2018 08:28

22 | city profile

Victoria: BC’s Queen Canada's 'City of Gardens' could well be one of North America's most underrated cities, contends Andrew Threlfall

F

ramed by the wild coastal beauty of the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by rainforest and set against a backdrop of the Olympic Mountains, Victoria is one of Canada's most enchanting cities.

Named after Queen Victoria, British Columbia’s capital city has found plenty of ways to pay homage to those Victorian beginnings: for example there’s the stately Craigdarroch Castle Mansion (a Scottish Baronial mansion built by a coal baron in the 1890s), a Westminster-influenced Parliament Square and even an annual three-day Highland Games and Celtic Festival, held each May (19th, 20th, 21st in 2018).

Southern climate Located 75 miles south of Vancouver – although somewhat confusingly on the craggy southern end of Vancouver Island Victoria: pretty impressive -Victoria is certainly accessible: Victoria International Airport is served by more than 50 flights a day from Vancouver and Victoria is one of those few destinations Seattle, and there are also harbour-tothat can gleefully boast to have you out on harbour flights from both cities by floatplane the golf course in the morning and up on or helicopter. Plus there’s an efficient the ski slopes that same afternoon. The city ferry system between Victoria and the is the gateway to the Vancouver Island Golf mainland. And Clipper Vacations Trail, a 250-kilometre-long network (clippervacations.com) will of 11 scenic courses, while Mt. launch its new passenger Washington Ski Resort, the ferry service between premier winter resort on Vancouver and Vancouver Island, often downtown Victoria in benefits from some of Book it! spring 2018.

BC's deepest snow.

Canadian Sky – 01342 887865 With a temperate A five-night Victoria and Vancouver southern climate option, with two nights in the Harbour gardens bloom yearTower Hotel and Suites, is from £849pp. round in Victoria, which canadiansky.co.uk is why it is known as 'The City of Gardens'.

A perfect family destination, there is a host of child-friendly attractions such as Victoria Bug Zoo, which features a collection of live tropical insects from around the world, and Miniature World, with its scaled-down displays representing historical times and fictional worlds.

But the one attraction that will feature on Butchart Gardens most people’s lists is Butchart Gardens, with

its 55 acres of vivid floral displays, statues, water features and a carousel.

Art for art's sake For culture vultures The Royal BC Museum’s extensive galleries and interactive exhibits are home to over seven million artefacts, while the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria has the most comprehensive collection of Asian art in Canada.

Surrounded by the rich farming regions of the Saanich Peninsula and Cowichan Valley, Victoria’s restaurants and cafés are blessed with an abundance of local ingredients.

Seafood—particularly salmon and shellfish—is caught fresh from Pacific waters and is a mainstay of West Coast cuisine. At Ferris’s Oyster Bar and Grill, Look out for ‘Buck a Shuck Happy Hour, where you can get 18 local oysters for $18. Elsewhere, the city has oldest Canadian Chinatown outside of Toronto’s.

Here Visitors can stroll historical Fan Tan Alley – the narrowest street in Canada.

With Hero Strait and the Strait of Georgia right on Victoria’s doorstep, whale-watching trips in search of killer whales (Orcas), humpbacks, grays and minke are one of the city’s main draw cards. •

Selling Canada spring/summer 2018

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QUÉBEC

Get back to nature Home to 30 national parks, over 650 animal species and a gastronomy scene that thrives on local produce, Québec gives clients a taste of the wild side

E

xperience panoramic treetop views, the salty spray from the mighty humpback whale and the sweet scent of maple wafting from traditional sugar shacks – and all in the same province! Québec has plenty to entice visitors and keep them coming back for more.

TREE TOP VIEWS Québec offers an endless choice of outdoor activities, allowing visitors to take advantage of its spectacular natural environment year round.

Its national parks cover 37,000 km2 of protected wilderness –but the best view is from the treetops.

The Laurentians host a number of ziplining courses, such as in Mont Tremblant National Park, while the VéloVolant canopy cycle in the Eastern Townships of Montréal allows clients to cycle past trees in the wonderful setting of the Green Mountains. Both make for a spectacular activity in autumn, with the rich colours of the changing leaves as a backdrop.

LIFE ON THE WILD SIDE You don’t have to stray far from Québec's cities to find animals roaming in the wilderness. The province has a diverse wildlife population including bears, beavers, whales, caribou and moose - and

Cycle through stunning scenery

SF Quebec.indd 23

plenty of them! Visit Québec Authentique in the Lanaudiere and Mauricie regions for black bear and beaver watching or Omega Park in Outaouais for safari-style wildlife spotting.

Extending 2,000 km from Lake Ontario to the Atlantic Ocean, the Saint Lawrence River attracts 13 species of large marine mammal including blue and humpback whales, which can be seen between June and October. Take a boat, Zodiac or kayak and see these giants from the water, or watch them from the shore at the five regions of Québec by the Sea.

FLAVOUR TRAILS The province provides an abundance of local produce that contribute to Québec's thriving gastronomy scene. Its agricultural plains, Arctic lands, Saint Lawrence River and boreal forests all account for creative menus and flavoursome tours that enable clients to taste their way around the province. In the Charlevoix region, the Flavour Trail introduces visitors to local producers that are at the forefront of 'agrotourism'. Similarly, the Gourmet Route tour concentrates on the Québec City area. Or seek out Québec’s traditional sugar shacks at Sucrerie de la Montagne, and try some of the best maple and meat products that Canada has to offer.

To find out more visit: www.quebecoriginal.com/en •

Enjoy Québec by the sea

HIT THE ROAD SAINT LAWRENCE RIVER Drive along the Saint Lawrence River and discover FrenchCanadian history and fogdappled forests SCENIC DRIVE Go back in time on the Kings Road, through Lanaudiere, Mauricie and Québec City regions for great views along the Saint Lawrence Route in Charlevoix. Or discover the vineyards of the Wine Route in the Eastern Townships GASPÉSIE HIGHLIGHT Travel along the 1,250km that separates Tadoussac from BlancSablon and observe whales on the Whale Route. Or photograph beautiful lighthouses along the 2,050 km-long Lighthouse Trail

Spot our famous moose

3/27/18 06:20 PM

24 | YOUTHFUL CANADA

The young ones With its world-class attractions and epic scenery at every bend in the road, Canada is the ideal holiday destination for under-30s, says Karl Cushing

W

hether it's a canoeing or rafting excursion, an up-close-and-personal wildlife encounter, a floatplane or helicopter flight, or a wilderness horse-riding trail ride there's plenty to appeal to young adventurers.

“More and more young people are looking for authentic, enriching experiences and Canada offers them by the bucket load,” says Richard Hanson, Managing Director of the 18–35 specialist Trek America (trekamerica.co.uk), whose offerings include the 17-day Canadian Parks West from Vancouver (from May-August; maximum size 13).

“Breathtaking scenery, adrenaline-inducing activities, spectacular wildlife in its natural habitat and cities bursting with culture – Canada offers a real ‘away from it all’ adventure.”

“Don’t miss Whistler if your clients have family members who are adrenaline junkies!” says Hanson, who recommends Whistler Mountain Bike Trail for visitors to British Columbia’s world-class ski resort.

Whistler’s other top draws attractions include heli-skiing and the Whistler Sliding Centre, where you can try your hand at skeleton – the season ends April 1 (whistler.com/uk).

Or take the intimate, fly-in Nimmo Bay Resort (nimmobay.com), featured by the likes of W&O

SPLASH! Calypso Waterpark near Ottawa, Ontario, is Canada's largest water theme park. It will open for the season in June. Kids under a metre tall get free admission

Ready to make a splash (westernoriental.com), whose options range from heli-fly fishing to excursions on its boat, Dance.

YOUTH CULTURE

GET ACTIVE

The wonderfully interactive Canadian Children’s Museum is located inside the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, Québec

A family canoe adventure

BOOK IT

CONTIKI 0808 281 1120 Suggest twinning an outdoorsy adventure with a major event. The youth specialist operator's 13-day Canada and the Rockies plus Calgary Stampede combination starts from £1,719pp and departs July 1. contiki.com

Youth specialist Contiki offer a host of ‘Free Time Add Ons’, ranging from heli-tours and dog sledding to Johnston Canyon Ice Walks in Banff National Park.

Also in Alberta, Columbia Icefield excursions and Ice Explorer rides on Athabasca Glacier are Mini Adventures offered by STA Travel (statravel.co.uk).

Viewing polar bears in Churchill, Manitoba, works for all ages, with October and November offering prime viewing from Churchill’s tundra buggies.

Alternatively, local fly-in lodges such as Dymond Lodge, featured on tailored tours from operators such as Frontier Canada (frontier-canada.co.uk), offer polar bear sightings from July-November, with the added bonus of seeing the Northern Lights.

Adventurous teens in particular will love The Rock in Chelsea, Québec (parental consent needed). With a 200ft drop it’s the longest bungee experience in North America – and comes complete with a head or body dunk at the bottom.

Or if they’d rather hang ten then Tofino off Vancouver Island’s wild west coast boasts renowned

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YOUTHFUL CANADA | 25

Calgary Stampede: Western fun for all surf spots such as Cox Bay and Long Beach Lodge (longbeachlodgeresort.com) which features an onsite surf school alongside activities such as scuba diving and, in season, whale or bear watching tours.

FAMILY MATTERS Family-friendly hotel options include Québec’s Au Diable Vert, a year-round outdoor centre with accommodations ranging from treehouses to Airstream trailers, whose facilities for over-12s include Vélo Volant, a 45-minute scenic pedal ride above the forest (audiablevert.com/en).

Québec’s top hotels are another good bet for family activities. Take lakeside Hotel Sacacomie, whose offerings range from ‘rabaska’ canoe excursions

THE BARE BONES What kid doesn’t like dinosaurs? The Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum in Wembley, Alberta, augments its many interactive displays with tours of nearby Pipestone Creek, one of the world’s greatest dinosaur bonebed sites dinomuseum.ca

to scenic floatplane trips, while wilderness horse riding adventures are among the offerings at lodges such as Auberge d’Andromede in Courcelles (aubergeandromede.com/en).

Teens will also love the whitewater rafting opportunities on arteries such as British Columbia's’s Kick Horse river — easily arranged through local operators such as Cathedral Mountain Lodge (cathedralmountainlodge.com).

Come spring and summer operators such as Owl Rafting (owlrafting.com) take families rafting on the Ottawa River. Its excursions range from half-day to two-day tours and include a number of options for families. Longer tours include all meals, camping and professional guide.

Polar bears in Assiniboine Park Zoo, Winnipeg

THE EDGE Toronto's tallest attraction sees adventure lovers 'walking' outside the CN Tower.

The minimum age for Edgewalk is 13

Peering down

Meanwhile, ziplines don’t get much better than Whistler’s Bear and Eagle Tours – for ages six-plus (whistler.ziptrek.com/tours), backed by a network of suspension bridges and canopy walks.

Ziplining also offers a great way to experience Niagara Falls (wildplay.com/niagara-falls) for kids aged seven-plus, and is a nice alternative to classic Hornblower boat tours (niagaracruises.com) and the Journey Behind the Falls experiences (niagaraparks.com).

For more kid-friendly soaring, try Vancouver’s popular flight simulator attraction, FlyOver Canada (flyovercanada.com) – over 102cm height required.

The nearby Aquarium in Stanley Park has hands-on animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours.

Toronto’s child-friendly range numbers Centreville Amusement Park (centreisland.ca), Royal Ontario Museum and Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada.

The little ones will love the trip up the glass elevator to the tower’s glass-floored viewing platform.

This year’s new attractions include the Flying Canoes and Lumberjack rides at Canada's Wonderland (canadaswonderland.com), near Toronto, while La Ronde in Montréal (laronde.com/larondeen) has a new carnival-themed Family Zone, Carnaval en Folie, aimed at ‘kids of all ages’. •

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26 | canada's blue planet

Canada’s

blue PlANet With three coastlines, canada has ample opportunity for whale and marine life watching. even better, if you choose the east coast, you’re less than six hours away from saying ‘there she blows’, says rupert Parker

Getting close to giants

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hale watching is a seasonal activity with mid-summer to early-autumn giving visitors the best chance of a real life encounter with these giants of the sea - there are more than 30 species inhabiting the waters around Canada’s 200,000 km coastline.

Tails it is

Whether you choose the comfort of a passenger boat, bounce through the waves in a Zodiac inflatable or paddle yourself in a kayak, seeing whales in the ocean is an unforgettable experience.

Even better, climb into a wet suit and snorkel with the Belugas in Hudson Bay or join Humpbacks in the water in Newfoundland. For a unique Blue Planet experience go to Vancouver Island on Canada's west coast and jump into the Campbell River. You’ll snorkel with thousands of salmon migrating home to spawn in the Discovery Passage.

Get the Hump - Newfoundland St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland, is less than five hours flying time from the UK and then it’s only a 15-minute drive to Petty Harbour. There, you’ll not just see Humpbacks but can also get in the water and snorkel alongside these immense mammals. Another 15 minutes away is Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, home to Fin and Minke whales.

If you’ve only got a long weekend, Newfoundland is close enough to spot the whales and maybe catch icebergs drifting by too, before getting back to work on Monday morning. The season runs from late June to August.

High Tide - Nova Scotia and New Brunswick Digby Neck is a long peninsula jutting into the Bay of Fundy, where the world’s most extreme tides deliver

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Saint Lawrence River

"CANAdA'S blue PlANet CAN be GliMPSed At ASSiNiboiNe PArk CoNServANCy iN WiNNiPeG"

vast quantities of fish and krill, which is the prime food for hungry whales. Skim the waves in a Zodiac inflatable and get up close to Fin whales, Humpbacks, Pilot whales and perhaps the rare Right whale. Across the bay, the picturesque New Brunswick town of St Andrews offers whale trips in sail boats, rib boats and Zodiacs. The season runs from mid-July to midSeptember.

The Big Blue - Québec Côte-Nord, also known as the Whale Route, runs alongside the St. Lawrence River for 1,250 kms from Tadoussac to Blanc-Sablon and 13 different species of cetaceans are found in the waters where the estuary meets the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It’s easy to see Humpbacks, Minkes and Belugas from the shore but the sweet spot is Tadoussac, where the Saguenay River meets the St Lawrence.

book it

WildliFe WorldWide 01962 302 086 An eight day self-drive to discover Québec’s bears, whales and moose including visits to Québec City and Reserve des Laurentides, where visitors can observe bear, moose and beaver.

Visit Tadoussac and then go sea kayaking to view marine mammals and a whale watching excursion. Prices start from £2,695pp including flights. wildlifeworldwide.com

Killer whale Here, Blue Whales, the largest animal on earth, at 25m long and weighing 100 tonnes, congregate to feed off the huge supplies of krill. Don warm clothes, climb aboard a Zodiac and get close enough to smell their breath. The season is May to mid-October with August and September peak times for Blue Whales.

Talkin’ Beluga - Manitoba When the ice melts on Hudson Bay, over 57,000 white Beluga whales arrive in the river estuary near the town of Churchill. They remain here throughout the summer to give birth and to feed on capelin and Lake Cisco fish. Nicknamed “sea canaries” for their strange high-pitched whistles, clicking, chirping and other underwater vocalizations, these playful whales have few natural predators. You can get close in a Zodiac inflatable or paddling a kayak but better to don a thick wet suit and jump in among them.

They’re sociable, naturally curious and they’ll also talk to you. Whilst you’re in Churchill, climb aboard a Tundra Buggy and spot polar bears waiting for the ice to form. The season is July and August.

For those clients to Winnipeg who don’t have the time to get out of the city, Canada’s Blue Planet can be glimpsed at Assiniboine Park Conservancy. Here you can see polar bears and seals swimming above from the safety of underwater viewing tunnels.

Swimming with belugas

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easily identifiable by the encrusted barnacles on their outsides. Some of them stay for the entire summer in nearby Clayoquot Sound but you’ll have to get on a boat to see them. Humpbacks may also appear and seals and sea lions are plentiful. The season is March to October.

Snorkel – Campbell River The Campbell River, on Vancouver Island’s east coast, teems with five salmon species migrating to spawn in the Discovery Passage. It's an epic voyage for hundreds of thousands of Coho, Steelhead, Chum, Chinook and Pink that return, spawn and die in the same waters they were born. Rafts allow easy viewing of the salmon in the crystal-clear waters but for an unforgettable experience, don a wetsuit and snorkel in one of the river pools crammed with thousands of fish. The season is late July to early October.

Sliding along in Baffin Island

Where to book it

I am the Walrus - Baffin Island Fly north from Ottawa to Iqaluit, the capital of Nunavut, and then onward to Pond Inlet on Baffin Island. Transport across the ice is by Komatik, a wooden sled pulled behind a snowmobile, the traditional means of travel for the Inuit. At the floe edge, where the ice meets the sea, you’ll spot Ringed and possibly Harped and Bearded seals as well as Bowhead whales, weighing up to 100 tonnes. Groups of Walrus can bask in the sun and, if you’re lucky you may even spot Narwhals, with their long spiralled tusks, up to 2m long. The season is May to June.

The Killers – Vancouver Island In the north of Vancouver Island, the Robson Bight Ecological Preserve is home to Canada’s only Killer whale sanctuary. As many as 200 Orcas gather in this part of the Johnstone Strait each summer to rub themselves on the barnacle-encrusted rocks.

The top predator on the inland-water food chain, they’re attracted by the annual salmon runs that funnel through the strait. Boats depart from Telegraph Cove, tracking them with underwater microphones, as they move fast with speeds up to 40km/h. You may also see Humpbacks as well as other marine life. Season mid-June to October.

Further south on the west coast of the island, spring in Tofino sees 20,000 Grey whales swimming past on their journey from the Baja Peninsula to Alaska. You can spot them from the land, and they’re

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book it

Audley Travel 01993 838 700 The operator’s 13-day Ultimate New Brunswick Self-Drive travels from Nova Scotia to New Brunswick, explores the Acadian Coast and then goes inland along the Miramichi River. You then spend a few days exploring the Bay of Fundy with four days in St Andrews whale watching, before returning to Halifax. Prices start from £2455pp including flights. audleytravel.com

First Class Holidays – 0161 888 5606 A six-night trip on the Belugas, Bears & Blooms package flies to Winnipeg then onwards to Churchill on Hudson Bay. It includes a three-hour Beluga viewing, one day Tundra Buggy to see polar bears and an afternoon’s dog sledding. Prices start from £4597pp including flights. fcholidays.com Frontier Canada – 020 8776 8709 A seven-night package departing in early July spends one night in Vancouver, then flies to Campbell River with a four-night Orca camping package, including sea Kayaking, returns to Campbell River and Vancouver before flying back to the UK. Prices start from £1,995pp including flights. frontier-canada.co.uk •

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ATLANTIC CANADA

A sense of adventure With miles of dramatic shoreline, oceans inhabited by icebergs and whales and with one of the world's best cycle trails, Atlantic Canada is packed with outdoors adventures

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here are plenty of ways to enjoy the many natural attractions of Canada's four easternmost provinces. Here are some top suggestions for clients.

NEW BRUNSWICK The most exciting way to explore the dramatic cliffs or giant ’flowerpot’ formations of Hopewell Rocks Park is to take a sea kayak tour with Baymount Outdoor Adventures. Visitors can paddle their way through the rocks, turning through small tunnels and narrow passageways. Then, in the space of a few hours, and due to the highest tides in the world which happen twice a day, they can experience a completely different landscape as they walk the ocean floor among the very same rocks. In August visitors can paddle among tens of thousands of migratory shorebirds. thehopewellrocks.ca; baymountadventures.com

NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR

NOVA SCOTIA

Newfoundland is home to the world’s largest concentration of humpback whales, which makes sightings extremely common. Iceberg Quest Ocean Tours departs daily from St. John’s (North America’s oldest city) and Twillingate on the north east coast of Newfoundland and Labrador). The tours take in 12,000-year-old Greenland icebergs (normally seen between mid-May and late June) and the Atlantic puffin. But to really get the adrenaline flowing, how about snorkelling next to humpback whales? The activity is available from mid-June to mid-August with Ocean Quest. Tours leave from Petty Harbour, near St. John's.

For cycling enthusiasts The Cabot Trail is the perfect way to experience the highlands and the dramatic coastline of Nova Scotia. Freewheeling Adventures offers a five-night cycling adventure that covers a 320-km loop. The route includes the option of a cycling foray into the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, whale-watching by zodiac, off-road cycling to salmon pools and the chance to play golf on Highland Links. It also takes in wooded trails – with cooling off in deep pools below waterfalls optional. The riding is described as ‘challenging’, covering around 45-80 km each day. freewheeling.ca

icebergquest.com; oceanquestadventures.com

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

A SHORT HOP AWAY At just over five hours’ flying time from the UK and served by direct flights from several UK airports, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island have never felt closer.

With 1,600km of coastline and an abundance of sandy beaches, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the ocean in Prince Edward Island. The island’s shallow bays and consistent winds provide an excellent setting for kiteboarding and parasailing adventures, but for a great family day out enjoy the ocean from aboard a fishing charter boat on a quest for mackerel, cod, herring or tuna. Or sign up to become a lobster fisherman for the day.

Yachtsmen can brush up their skills at a sailing school – the province offers protected harbours and breathtaking coastlines. Or grab a paddle and join a kayaking or canoe tour, offered by local outfitters. tourismpei.com/on-the-water •

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30 | IN CONVERSATION

'Canada does local well' Ben Cowan Dewar, Destination Canada’s Chairperson, fleshes out the key themes and trends that will keep visitor numbers healthy in 2018 Last year was special – 150 years of Canada.

Did that work out as you wanted?

Yes, I think it did. It was a huge celebration in Canada and we got a lot of attention.

That said, it was more meaningful in some markets than others, but the overall demand for tourism was terrific.

How can you maintain this momentum?

We plan to keep the momentum going with festivals and events and fleshing out some of the key themes we are working hard on, like our Cities, Culinary Tourism, Aboriginal Tourism and our National Parks.

One of the things I am hearing is that there is a real affection for our cities. They are not impersonal like cities in some other countries and are packed with attractions, nightlife, events and festivals. And they are still green, filled with parks and often surrounded by nature.

Our culinary scene is innovative, growing and embracing the farm-to-table concept.

It features seafood from the coasts, produce and meat from the prairies, fruit from our orchards and great wine from our vineyards.

But it is not just about the consuming: it is about experiencing – whether that is foraging for wild mushrooms, having a shore lunch, going on a lobster boat to fish for your own supper or drinking local rum in a centuries-old fort.

You must be delighted at the current growth of Aboriginal experiences. It seems to be a sector that is expanding fast.

Yes, we are and it is a key focus for Destination Canada. Last year at our annual Rendez-vous Canada trade show we held our preshow board meeting at an Aboriginal product, a casino, south of Calgary. We had the Aboriginal Tourism Association of Canada (ATAC)

at that meeting and we struck a landmark agreement that strengthens the promotion of Aboriginal tourism in our international markets. The challenge is to create awareness; create programmes.

There are more than 1500 Aboriginal tourism businesses across Canada, many of them small businesses. The goal for us is to help them raise awareness and make the products they offer ready for international visitors and ready for tour operators and travel agents to sell them.

Aboriginal tourism enriches the story of Canada and its cultural traditions.

Canada is a safe, welcoming and

Is Canada benefiting friendly destination. Canada is open: our from people looking for culture is immersive, diverse and accessible. experiential experiences?

That is generally recognised, but we will Yes, I think it definitely keep emphasising this along with all is. One of key things the many things visitors can see about Canada is that there is a vast range of and do in the country” experiences that are local and authentic, experiences that are offered by companies run by people who live and breathe these destinations.

It is easy to get out of the cities, and be able to live like a local, act like a local, be close to the locals –and that is very appealing.

Canada does ‘local’ well.

Canadian tourism is in a pretty good state – but what are the remaining challenges?

We have to build on the current goodwill and towards Canada and work hard to keep Canada top of mind. We must continue to make sure we are getting our correct messages out. And we must keep enticing agents and operators out to Canada to experience Canada. In short, we must keep on doing all the things we have been doing and keep doing them better. •

Culinary treats

Parade in Québec

Banff National Park, AB

Capilano Bridge, BC

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ONTARIO

STAY IN STYLE

Above: Paddling around Algonquin; Below: Muskoka Steamships

Rural charms

JW MARRIOTT THE ROSSEAU MUSKOKA RESORT & SPA This luxury lakeside property offers a whole host of water activities directly from the property. After a day of fun, relax in front of the stone fireplace or indulge in some spa time. therosseau.com

A short detour from urban Ontario, Muskoka and Algonquin are easy add-ons for clients wanting to skip town for a change of scenery

MUSKOKA MUSTS Known as ‘Cottage Country’, the district of Muskoka attracts over 2.1 million visitors annually and boasts some of the most prestigious summer homes in the province. Muskoka makes the most of the great outdoors, with boating, hiking, zip lining, horse riding and world-class golf widely available. Some of the 200 golf courses here have been designed by legendary golfer Nick Faldo.

Boating is also a popular pastime with options ranging from all-day cruises to simply watching the world go by in a canoe - fishing rod optional.

Visitors can even set sail on North America’s oldest operating steamship, the RMS Segwun, and learn all about its 130-year history in the Muskoka Discovery Centre (realmuskoka.com).

The small town charm of Muskoka is best

experienced by exploring its many artisan shops and trying out the exceptional dining and craft breweries. Wine lovers can sign up to a Bog to Bottle tour at Johnson’s Cranberry Marsh, followed by a tasting of its famous cranberry wine (cranberry.ca).

ADVENTURE IN ALGONQUIN Algonquin Park takes the title of the oldest and most famous of Ontario's provincial parks, covering approximately 3,500 square miles of rugged landscape. As most of it is only accessible by kayak or on foot the park has retained its appeal to nature lovers, who keep a sharp eye out for resident moose, bears, beavers and birds. A dramatic tapestry of oranges and red in these maplesmothered hills make autumn a great time to visit. Clients wanting to take to the water can choose from half- or full-day, guided or self-guided paddle trips with Algonquin Outfitters (algonquinoutfitters.com). Adventurous types can also hike or bike one of the 14 trails that snake through the Highlands, ranging from gentle pedals to challenging hilly trails.

For more information, visit: ontariotravel.net or to become an Ontario specialist visit: discoverontarioagent.com •

AROWHON PINES, ALGONQUIN Situated in the middle of the Canadian wilderness of Algonquin Park, visitors can enjoy log cabins complete with wood-burning fires and lake views. Open from June - October. arowhonpines.ca

DEERHURST RESORT Experience ‘Cottage Country’ with this expansive property with its own golf course and a choice of both hotel rooms and condo rentals. A new Lakeside Lodge development is due to open autumn 2018. deerhurstresort.com

IMAGE CREDITS. TOP TO BOTTOM: JW MARRIOTT

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he regions of Muskoka and Algonquin provide the perfect refuge from the city during the hot summer months and are only a few hours drive from both Toronto and Ottawa. An abundance of lakes, forest and wildlife make this area a hot spot for adventure enthusiasts and a popular retreat for Hollywood’s elite, with stars such as Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks giving it their seal of approval.

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32 | DESTINATION CANADA: SOCIAL MEDIA

 @DESTINATIONCAN

 EXPLORECANADA

 EXPLORE CANADA

There's snow-where like Alberta

Blog

EXPLORE CANADA

Twittersphere

Luxury lunch "Hawksworth at the Georgia Hotel is one of the best restaurants in Vancouver." @mrsoaroundworld

ew Reaching n

heights Natural wonders

BLOGGER Wanderlust Chloe explored the snowy peaks of Alberta and found there's plenty to keep non-skiers busy: "Banff and the surrounding areas are an outdoor adventure playground in winter! From hiking, snow tubing and gondola rides, to hot springs, ice climbing and helicopter tours, there are loads of great activities to do, even for non-skiers who still fancy a winter holiday. A helicopter tour over the Rocky Mountains was the highlight of the trip - what a buzz as we touched down and wandered around areas you just can’t reach on foot at this time of year. I’d definitely recommend it if your budget permits!" Read more at: wanderlustchloe.com

Tweet

"When you see something as epic as Helmcken Falls it just reminds you how beautiful Canada is." @HLOBlog

Tweet Follow the leader @maccasherifi swapped skis for snowshoes on a guided tour at Lake Louise Ski Resort in Alberta.

Scooting around Fogo

Toronto lights up

Hand Luggage Only duo, Yaya and Lloyd, spent a month travelling around Ontario, The Rockies and BC, stopping for some colourful shots along the way. @HLOBlog

News from Fogo

Sky News anchor @KayBurley ventured to the remote fishing community of Fogo Island and tried her hand at ice fishing, igloo building and snowmobiling on ice.

Park life An 18-hour stopover in Vancouver prompted a wander around Stanley Park for @mrsoaroundworld.

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DESTINATION CANADA: JUST FOR FUN | 33

 @DESTINATIONCAN

 EXPLORECANADA

 EXPLORE CANADA

EXPLORE CANADA

TRUE OR FALSE?

Spot the difference between these sandy scenes

Okanagan Valley has 25o wineries?

TRUE / FALSE

We've made six changes to this snap of Miscou Beach, New Brunswick

Tom Cruise has a property in Muskoka, Ontario?

TRUE / FALSE There are 35 species of whale that inhabit Canada’s coastline?

TRUE / FALSE Québec has the longest bungee jump in North America?

TRUE / FALSE You can visit a 67-million-year-old T-Rex in Alberta TRUE / FALSE British visitors to Canada don't need an electronic travel authority (eta)?

TRUE / FALSE Polar bears can run up to 25 miles per hour?

TRUE / FALSE

1 - True; 2 - False (Tom Hanks does); 3 - False (It's 30); 4 - True; 5 - True; 6 - False; 7 - True

Wordsearch Find the words horizontally, vertically, diagonally, forwards and backwards.

Find me...

Hidden somewhere within the magazine is a polar bear like the one above. Can you find it?

Hidden in the grid are: Saskatchewan, indigenous, Manitoba, whale watching, salmon, Alberta, moose and iceberg.

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34 | GREAT DRIVING

Okanagan Valley Highway 97, which travels through the wine-producing Okanagan Valley in British Columbia’s interior, offers a driving holiday packed with adventure activities, suggests Stuart Forster

PREDATOR RIDGE RESORT

VERNON

The Range Lounge and Grill serves high-quality cuisine cooked with locally sourced ingredients. Two championship standard golf courses and the Okanagan Rail Trail, which is popular with cyclists, offer reasons to linger. predatorridge.com

Between Kalamalka and Swan lakes, Vernon is a year-round hub for adventure activities like boating, quad tours and rock climbing. Replenish with energy snacks from local orchards. tourismvernon.com

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PARAGLIDE CANADA

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Visiting the OAK+CRU social kitchen and wine bar means an opportunity to leave the car parked and taste a selection of wines from the region’s 250 wineries.

The highly rated waterfront restaurant is at the Delta Hotels Grand Okanagan Resort.

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OAK+CRU

Flights offer a chance to view the lush ranch land around Lavington from above. No prior experience of paragliding is required to enjoy tandem flights of between 10 and 30 minutes. paraglidecanada.com

SPARKLING HILL RESORT Sparkling Hill offers opportunity to unwind while enjoying views of both the lake and mountains.

Crystal scrubs and couples’ massages are among the available treatments. sparklinghill.com

oakandcru.com

KELOWNA FITZPATRICK FAMILY VINEYARDS An option for an excursion from Kelowna, this newly opened winery specialises in producing sparkling wines using the traditional French method. The bistro serves food and fine views over the lake. fitzwine.com

ELDORADO RESTAURANT Dine on seasonal, organic produce from local farms at this beautiful lakeside restaurant. The extensive wine list encompasses more than 150 choices, from the Okanagan Valley and beyond. hoteleldoradokelowna.com

Multifaceted Kelowna is the biggest city in the wineproducing Okanagan region and home to a handful of craft beer and cider producers. The broad boardwalk offers views of the lake, which is studded with beaches and offers activities ranging from stand-up paddleboarding to kayaking. tourismkelowna.com

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