Selling Travel July - August 2025 by BMI Publishing Ltd

TRAVEL SELLING

Inspiring those who sell travel

Time to shine

Consider Albania, one of this year's "rising star" destinations

Plus: Travel for Every Body Awards • Interview: Sophie Morgan • Accessible Cruising • Expedition Cruising • Luxury Budapest • 48 hours in Rome • Canada Special

WELCOME

Charlotte Flach, Editor

Until July 14, we are still inviting submissions and nominations for our Travel for Every Body Awards, an initiative to help inspire all those wishing to shout about their work to make travel more accessible.

I was delighted to chat to the inspiring Sophie Morgan, one of our judges, on how travel providers can advocate for those with accessibility needs (page four).

With ‘overtourism’ very much in the news this year, many tourist boards are trying to divert tourists away from their country’s most visited hotspots. See our feature exploring ‘on the rise destinations’ (page 10).

Also inside, we shine a light on cruise following Expedition Cruise Network’s (ECN) Summer Soiree, which revealed the growing popularity of expedition cruising among many traveller demographics. Our dedicated feature on page 19 suggests some booking options.

Finally, check out our extended Canada section (from page 24). It has the latest information, news and interviews to help you and your clients plan a trip to the Great White North. Happy reading!

Guildford, GU1 3DA, uk. T: 020 8649 7233 enquiries@bmipublishing.co.uk While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, BMI Publishing Ltd cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. 19

Sophie Morgan, TV presenter and disability advocate, discusses her role as a judge for the Travel for Every Body Awards and explains why the travel sector must get behind accessibility

“we don’t need to be perfect. we need to work together

on solutions”

Why have you become a judge for our Travel for Every Body Awards?

It’s really important to celebrate best practice, especially around accessible travel. We need to check where the industry is at, celebrate those people that are doing well, and then hopefully continue to draw attention to this subject, to make the travel industry realise this is something that is both important and beneficial for everyone.

As a judge, I’m looking for individuals, businesses and destinations that have gone a step beyond the levels of accessibility we should now expect as standard. For me, success looks like an environment where everybody feels welcome, so my expectations are high.

I think we are at a place now where we can – and we should – expect a lot, so that’s what I’ll be doing.

Is the travel industry doing enough to make travel more accessible?

The world is becoming increasingly accessible. There are so many wonderful places doing incredible things. There is much more work to be done, but all over the world there are incredible examples of people innovating in accessibility and creating new and exciting ways to welcome people with disabilities in every form. It’s a really exciting time.

I now know what best practice looks like and what it feels like to be

surrounded by people, for example, who have had disability awareness, inclusivity and language training. And on top of that, they have made their environment really accessible.

I love this opportunity to be able to encourage the industry to do better and to showcase best practice, so that everyone can see what’s possible and the impact this has. And also to broaden people’s perspective of what disability travel looks like and what disabled travellers can do.

Do you have any key messages for travel providers?

We don’t need to be perfect! This concept of fully accessible is problematic. What we actually need to do is to provide detailed, granular information about what we have.

What I want to encourage the industry to do is not to get bogged down in trying to meet real perfection. Just show me what you have in detail and give me agency and permission to tell you what will work for me. If we need to find a solution together, we can.

We would quickly break down barriers if we started to think that way, as opposed to being perfect before inviting any disabled guests into a space.

Remove the fear and provide information. It’s not a lot; it’s not an option, it’s a necessity.

THE FAMILY BUSINESS

Facebook is a positive channel for us and we use it as a way of sharing lots of offers, destination information and suggested itineraries. It works well for us in terms of engagement, and I’ve had existing clients ask me for future holiday quotes based on itineraries we’ve shared on there.

We also share events we go to, and recently shouted about our ofﬁce refurb, which had a great response. People do seem to like keeping up with the personal side of our business too, which is nice (or perhaps nosy?!)

THE CRUISE SPECIALIST

I guess I am about as far from being Gen Z as possible and am more Gen OAP! Having not grown up with social media, I have not used it as a key selling tool.

However I recognise that to grow any business, the use of social media is key.

As the business grows more mature, one becomes more of a travel advisor who works with regular repeat clients, and with less need to be always sourcing new ones.

Anneka Desrosiers Co-Director at Southern Cross Travel Wadhurst

I’m shy on Instagram and haven’t ventured near TikTok yet. I understand the need for it as a way of reaching new customers, and the younger market, but I think time is a big factor when running your own business. We have an amazing marketing duo that we get to help us with various things, so my next task is asking them to lead the way on the social media channels…watch this space!

The importance of developing personal relationships should not be ignored, and I believe there is a danger of spending too much time spent on updating social media platforms – which I appreciate most of my competitors are also doing.

That said, I have used Facebook as a place to store and display images taken of a variety of ships. In fact, the mobile home I have been using as my cruise ofﬁce has been put on Facebook marketplace - with respondants requesting to see as many photos as I can provide!

James Hill Director of GoRiverCruise Worcestershire

How important is social media for communicating with clients and promoting your business? What platforms

THE HIGH STREET AGENCY

We recently attended a networking event and the guest speaker was a social media marketing expert. She gave us lots of ideas but the piece of advice that stood out most to me was “do something memorable”. (She also referenced the Barbie movie and reinventing yourself!)

We feel its not just about posting offers; clients like to see what we are doing in the ofﬁce, posts about our own holidays, travel advice and booking trends. We do videos of our window offers and displays and a regular slot where Cathy, one of our team, promotes a cruise offer.

In general, we choose iconic images on Instagram and put most offers and news on our Facebook page, the social media platform on which we have the highest number of followers.

Liz Beaty Director at The Travel Team Brampton, Cumbria

There are so many opportunities to promote business on all social media and its something that can continue to grow –we just need to keep thinking of new ideas!

do you use?

THE PATA AGENT

Social media is important as part of the marketing mix, and an effective way to communicate with some clients.

The choice of platform and the style of engagement depends on the client demographic and the objectives.

I use Facebook and LinkedIn, writing posts that describe a destination and often sharing my own travel experience.

I seek to maintain visibility in a crowded marketspace and inspire clients to consider travel to those destinations. But if amusing Instagram video clips work for you, then go for it! The key is to be consistent and true to your brand.

I read posts from suppliers which educate me. I want to hear about something special which would capture the imagination of my client, such as the new ‘PATA Presents’ video series offering tips on selling travel to the region. Posts that I can share with a client, simply by adding a line of commentary, are helpful.

John Coles Managing Director at Kew Bridge Travel London

Rotana Hotels and Resorts took centre stage during a series of Selling Travel Connect events in the UK.

Held at three key locations — DoubleTree Edinburgh City Centre (June 23), The Old Library in Birmingham (June 24), and The Derby at Derbyshire House in London (June 25) — the sessions drew 150 agents.

With more than 114 properties, Rotana welcomes over six million guests annually and operates six distinct brands: Rotana Hotels and Resorts, Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana, Centro Hotels, Resorts and Hotel Apartments by Rotana, Rayhaan Hotels and Resorts by Rotana, Edge by Rotana, and The Residences by Rotana.

“At Rotana, we believe time well spent is a life well lived. This thought sits at the heart of every stay, whether you’re travelling for business, leisure or a little of both,” said Anthony Vale, Key Account Manager – Leisure Sales at Rotana Hotels and Resorts.

KEY

MARKETS

The group is set to open new properties in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Georgia and more over the next 18 months, including:

Yasmina Rayhaan by Rotana – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (2025): 71 rooms and suites and three dining outlets in the heart of Riyadh.

Mangrove Rotana – Ras Al Khaimah, UAE (2025): 240 rooms overlooking the creek, four dining venues, and a bridal suite. This full-service hotel blends ecotourism, wellness, and leisure.

Bloom Arjaan by Rotana – Abu Dhabi, UAE (2025): A new upscale property

offering leisure and wellness-focused stays in the heart of Saadiyat Island’s cultural district, featuring 217 serviced apartments and a floating infinity pool.

Rotana’s growing engagement with the UK travel trade underscores its confidence in the market and the value it places on agency partnerships.

The group continues to invest in trade-facing education, marketing, and support to help agents match the right Rotana brand to every client need.

Prizes on the night included seven nights at Grand Rotana Sharm El Sheikh, won by Greg Jama at Flights and Holidays UK, and Emirates flights plus four Nights at Amwaj Rotana and three nights at Tower Rotana, won by Kerry Elliott at Travelling Dreams. sellingtravel.co.uk/agents-connect-withrotana-hotels-and-resorts/

“Time well spent is a life well lived – this thought is at the heart of every stay, whether you’re travelling for business, leisure, or a little of both”

CONNECT ROTANA JUNE 2025

Pictured: Agents met with Anthony Vale, Key Account Manager – Leisure Sales for Rotana Hotels and Resorts; Below: Great cuisine and memorable experiences at 114 Rotana properties

AND MIDDLE EAST MAY 2025

Selling Travel Connect: Indian Ocean and Middle East was held across three dates from May 12-15 attracting 140 travel agents.

Updates from suppliers included:

The Anda Barut Collection opened in May last year and offers three zones: adult, community and family. It has 10 pools and ultra all-inclusive is standard.

JA Resorts’ JA Ocean View has a summer offer of a dine-around allinclusive and kids up to 14 staying free.

Ras Al Khaimah is running a ‘Guess Where’ campaign, which will operate

up until September, 15, 2025, highlighting special offerings within the emirate.

Sun Siyam Olhuveli opened the longest swimming pool in the Maldives in March, at 210 metres long. The resort’s Beach Pavilion and Sunset Beach pavilions also underwent complete refurbishment. Travelpack’s revamped website includes enhanced hotel search, multi-centre functionality and Viator integration.

A Selling Travel Connect: Luxury event was held on June 19 at the County Hotel in Newcastle upon Tyne.

Updates from suppliers included:

A&K Sanctuary has a honeymoon offer, staying at A&K Sanctuary luxury safari camps and lodges, with 50% off a stay for a guest and their partner.

Antarcitica21’s new ship Magellan Discoverer will join its ﬂeet for the 20262027 season. The cruise operator’s ﬂy-and-cruise model offers faster and exclusive access to Antarctica.

Saadiyat Rotana Resort and Villas has a special promotion. Guests booking stays of at least ﬁve nights before January 10, 2026, in qualifying room categories, can take advantage of complimentary Club Lounge facilities.

Sun Siyam Iru Veli guests can enjoy the ‘Voyage of Vibes’ – a sunset cruise with a live DJ. The Private Sunset Isle involves travelling to a secluded islet to enjoy Champagne and canapes as the sun sets.

CONNECT CALENDAR

JULY

Connect Caribbean

7th July, London

SEPTEMBER

Connect: North America

23rd September, Bristol

24th September, Leeds

25th September, Edinburgh

29th September, London

OCTOBER

Connect: Indian Ocean & Middle East

13th October, London

14th October, Birmingham

15th October, Manchester

16th October, Glasgow

Selling Travel Connect

20th October, Cardiff

NOVEMBER

Connect: Europe

10th November, London

11th November, Birmingham

12th November, Newcastle

13th November, Edinburgh

DECEMBER

Connect: Luxury

1st December, London

2nd December, Manchester

3rd December, Chester

Connect: Africa

8th December, Birmingham

9th December, Leeds

CONNECT LUXURY JUNE 2025

CONNECT INDIAN OCEAN

Pictured: (inset) A delighted agent wins a prize on the night; Atendees gather for a group photo.

Pictured: (inset) Prizes included a Fortnum and Mason hamper; Agents watch a presentation.

Highlights of Riga

1 OLD TOWN VIBES

Riga’s charming Old Town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Notable landmarks include the ornate House of the Blackheads, facing onto Town Hall Square, the 800-year-old Riga Dome Cathedral and St Peter’s Church with its observation deck. Riga is relatively flat, which makes walking and cycling tours viable options.

2 DINE WELL

Riga has a vibrant culinary scene with 25 of its dining establishments listed in the Michelin Guide. Travellers seeking something simpler might enjoy a venison burger at Two More Beers. 3 Pavaru Restorans and FermaLatvian are good choices for excellent Latvian dishes. Noble Wine, Truffle Le Pig and Barents Wine Collectors are likely to appeal to travellers with refined palates.

3 HIT A MARKET

Riga’s Central Market used to house Zeppelin airships – now it showcases rye bread, fruit and vegetables, cooked meats and smoked fish. Even older, the brickwork Āgenskalns Market has a laid-back vibe and serves freshly prepared food. Saturdays represent an opportunity to trawl stalls in the Kalnciema Quarter.

4 APPRECIATE THE ARCHITECTURE

Riga’s Art Nouveau architecture was in its heyday in the early 20th century. Latvian architects put their spin on the style and more than 800 Art Nouveau edifices can be seen around the city. Riga Art Nouveau Museum is in the former home of the celebrated architect Konstantīns Pēkšēns on Alberta Street – whose facades make it a popular thoroughfare.

5 A SHOW THING

The Latvian National Opera dates from 1863 and provides a magical setting for performances from August into June. Tickets to shows such as Turandot, La Traviata and The Nutcracker represent good value. The National Theatre, which opened in 1918, is also an elegant building worth seeing both inside and out.

6 WHEELY GOOD

Riga Motor Museum’s façade is reminiscent of a Rolls-Royce’s radiator. It holds an expansive collection of classic automobiles and other vehicles, such as the bullet-proof cars that once transported the Kremlin’s hierarchy, and a 1966 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow damaged while Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev was at the wheel.

7 GREEN SPACES

Latvia’s capital is dotted with green spaces, including Vērmane Garden, whose Tabu Tea House is a cosy spot for refreshments. The Esplanade Park hosts the Byzantine-style Nativity of Christ Orthodox Cathedral and a monument to Rainis, Latvia’s national poet. The Freedom Monument towers over the Bastejkalna Park, while the Kronvalda Park is ideal for unwinding.

8 WORTH A RIDE

A 25-minute ride from central Riga, Spilve Airport is a leading example of Soviet Neoclassicist architecture. Murals within the old airport depict Latvian costumes and Soviet pageantry. The Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia is a 40-minute journey and provides insights into rural traditions amid relocated buildings from across the country.

9 DAY TRIPS FROM THE CAPITAL

Built for the Dukes of Courland in the 18th century, Rundāle Palace is a restored baroque landmark, approximately an hour from Riga, as is Sigulda, a town famed for Gauja National Park, the largest in Latvia. The coastal town of Jūrmala is known for its Art Nouveau summer houses made from wood.

10 WATER DAY OUT

Latvia’s capital is conveniently placed for spending time on beaches including Vecāķi, fringed by pine forest. Bathers can also stay in the city, which has several centrally located Blue Flag swimming areas. Lucavsala Bay, Rumbula and Kipsala are popular, and warrant packing swimwear during city breaks in Riga.

DESTINATIONS

ON THE RISE

‘Overtourism’ in established holiday hot spots is providing an opportunity for alternative destinations – and clients are increasingly open to looking further afield, says Xenia Taliotis

It was a day so hot that I could have fried eggs on the bonnets of the Fiat Cinquecentos that were parked along the road. Had I been in Rome or Florence, I would have been a sweaty, frazzled mess, tired out by waiting in line for everything from an ice-cream and a museum to even a shady spot beneath a tree.

Luckily, I had rejected those cities and had, instead, chosen Perugia, where I could walk straight into the town’s best gelateria, see one of Italy’s richest art collections – at the Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria – and avoid the crowds.

Until recently, on-the-rise destinations such as, say, Evora, Thessaloniki, Perugia and Chiang Mai lived in

the shadows of their better known compatriots, Lisbon, Athens, Florence and Bangkok, but now they’re ready to become favourites in their own right.

TAKING THE HEAT OFF

Overtourism can be detrimental to residents, to destinations, their attractions and infrastructure, and to tourists themselves.

The numbers that flood cities in peak months are staggering, as a recent report from Which? Travel showed.

Overnight stays on Zakynthos and Istria, said the report, outnumbered residents by 150 and 133 to one, respectively, while another metric showed that Paris had the most overnight stays per square kilometre (418,280), followed by Athens (88,534).

Meanwhile, McKinsey and Company’s 2024 State of Travel and Hospitality report noted that 80% of travellers choose to visit just 10% of the world’s tourist destinations.

Such numbers are unsustainable, and cities and countries have been taking steps to protect their cultural, built and natural heritage by imposing tourist taxes, visitor caps and entry fees to contain tourism.

In tandem with this, there have been efforts by travel agents and tourist boards to promote alternative destinations, dispersing holidaymakers to cities and countries that have been largely overlooked.

Suggest the Hague over Amsterdam to your clients, and they’ll be able to enjoy outstanding galleries at their leisure; recommend Madagascar

instead of Mauritius if they’re after secluded beaches; and highlight family friendly attractions in Valencia over Barcelona.

Further afield, InsideJapan’s ‘under tourism’ initiative has selected five prefectures – Toyama, Nagasaki, Nagoya, Yamaguchi and Aomori – that don’t receive much tourism, despite being ready and desirous of it, while Contiki’s ‘Borneo Adventure’ offers nature-lovers more than Bali does, including the chance to see orangutans, pygmy elephants, sun bears and proboscis monkeys.

COMING TO THE FORE

“Holiday-makers are now far more interested in places that have, for decades, been lagging behind,” says Patrick Millar, Senior Manager and Head of Marketing for Kirker Holidays.

“Bookings to both Austria and Morocco are up by more than 50%, while culturally rich cities such as Genoa, Perugia, Montpellier and Thessaloniki, which all have terrific amenities and are easy to discover on foot, are proving extremely popular with clients looking for a long weekend.”

Millar says that traditionally lesservisited destinations have been gathering momentum over recent years, helped in no small measure

“The numbers that flood cities in peak months are staggering, a report from Which? Travel showed”

Pictured: (below) Valencia is blissfully empty compared to Rome or Florence. (istock.com/pawel.gaul)

Pictured: (left to right from top) Emerging destination Albania has as much to offer as other European counterparts; Madagascar’s dreamlike andscapes are sure to impressl; Chiang Mai has many buildings as beautiful as those in Bangkok;Visit the Dutch parliament in Rotterdam; Algeria is dotted with Roman ruins; Consider visiting Nagasaki for its Lantern Festival, rather than Tokyo. (istock.com/yuhorakushin)

by affordability, a proliferation of direct flights that have improved accessibility, a warm welcome from the locals and, of course, a growing desire to be somewhere quiet and unexplored.

Sunvil, too, has seen increased bookings for “less obvious” areas of premier European destinations including Italy, Portugal, the Azores, Spain and Croatia, as well as increasing interest in Scandinavia.

What draws clients to new places, says Sunvil’s Chairman, Noel Josephides, is the promise of authentic experiences and interactions with locals.

“Many holidaymakers are travelling to learn about different cultures, to taste different foods and to enrich their lives. They want to visit the street markets, restaurants and shops that the residents go to, and they want their money to help drive the local economy or fund conservation initiatives.”

HOW AGENTS CAN HELP

Travel companies rely on agents to advise their clients accordingly, says Josephides. “They have a vital role to play, listening to what holiday-makers wish to experience, and then informing them of where they can find exactly what they are looking for in a location that isn’t overwhelmed by visitors.

“By finding the right holiday for each person, they make everyone a winner – travel brands, their companies, the destinations and, above all, their clients.”

If you’re wondering how best to

promote alternative destinations when your clients are desperate to see Paris, or Rome, or Barcelona, then consider Millar’s advice.

“Clients will want to visit those cities, but there are ways of helping them make more sustainable choices. They can, for example, opt to stay in the lesser-known districts, and eat at restaurants in those areas, or visit off-peak. Rome is a yearround destination and Venice is magical in winter.”

Beyond that, his suggestions for how best to encourage clients to select upand-coming places is to pique their interest with authentic, practical advice.

“Your customers come to you for your expertise, so make sure you know what makes the places you are selling special. Be specific – tell them about that excellent private museum, or the shallow sandy beach that’s perfect for teaching toddlers to swim.”

Millar also emphasises the importance of understanding each person’s motivation for wanting to travel. “If you have a couple saying they want to go to Paris because that’s where they met, for example, then of course you must sell them that holiday.

“But if you’ve got customers who say they want a city-break and are open to suggestions, then you can guide them accordingly. Fine dining, history, culture, great entertainment – many second cities have these in abundance.”

worth a second look

Thessaloniki: Greece’s UNESCOlisted second city, with its remarkable

Byzantine architecture, thriving port and waterfront promenade makes for an excellent city break.

Albania: In the Adriatic on Southeastern Europe’s Balkan Peninsula, its rugged coastlines, secluded bays, national parks and fascinating cities will appeal to clients of all ages and interests.

Madagascar: A great alternative to popular safari destinations such as Kenya or Indian Ocean islands like Mauritius, this island offers abundant wildlife, sweeping beaches and distinct cultural activities.

Algeria: With its Roman ruins and desert landscapes, the North African nations stands up to more popular locations in the region such as Egypt.

BOOK IT

Explore has a new nine-day ‘Algeria’s Sahara Desert Adventure’ tour for 2026, priced from £1,795pp. explore.co.uk

Xenia is a London-based writer and editor who longs to live elsewhere. She writes regularly for The Telegraph and The Times.

Pictured: (top left) Hallstadt, Austria (top right) Orangutans in Borneo.

XENIA TALIOTIS

Accessible at Sea

The Sun Princess has created an environment where every guest can fully enjoy all that the ship offers and the destinations it visits, says Jessica Heather

From the moment I stepped on board the Sun Princess it was clear that the cruise experience had been thoughtfully crafted and designed to ensure that accessibility was at the forefront of every aspect. Everything, from embarkation to disembarkation, was seamlessly tailored to ensure that guests with mobility challenges or other accessibility needs could experience the joy and wonder of a Mediterranean voyage without limitation.

BEYOND BARRIERS

Accessibility on Sun Princess isn’t just about providing ramps or elevators, it’s about creating an environment where every guest, regardless of their abilities, can move about freely, enjoy the amenities and enjoy all that the ship and the destinations visited have to offer.

Wide hallways, easily navigable public spaces and high-end accessible cabins

“The service wasn’t just about meeting basic requirements, but anticipating needs”

all added to my experience. The crew was another standout feature, with their knowledge and understanding of accessibility needs. The service wasn’t just about meeting basic requirements, but anticipating needs before they were voiced. Whether it was a small adjustment in a restaurant’s seating arrangement or guidance on the best accessible excursions in each port of call, the team went above and beyond.

My seven-night voyage across the Mediterranean offered a blend of rich history, stunning scenery and vibrant culture at every port of call. From the ancient wonders of Athens to the charming streets of Mykonos, each stop on the journey was designed

with accessibility in mind. The ship’s shore excursion team had carefully selected experiences that were not only memorable but also inclusive, ensuring that everyone could participate, regardless of their physical abilities.

In Messina, we were welcomed by a backdrop of rolling hills and ancient architecture. Princess ensured that there were accessible transport options available to those who might need assistance navigating the charming cobbled streets.

In Chania, the colours of the Mediterranean coastline were on full display. The port’s accessibility was well thought out, with easy pathways and the option for accessible tours that allowed guests to experience the city’s Venetian harbour, quaint streets and historic sites.

navigating on shore

Perhaps one of the most memorable stops was Istanbul, a city with a vibrant blend of cultures. It was clear that the cruise line had worked closely with local guides and services to offer an accessible way to explore the sights, including the majestic Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

With ramps, elevators and accessible transportation options, I was able to experience Istanbul without feeling like I was missing out on anything.

The city’s bustling markets and narrow alleys can be challenging to navigate, but the coordination with local services made it easy for all passengers, no matter their mobility needs, to enjoy the experience fully.

The ﬁnal leg of the journey took us to Mykonos and Athens, two of the Mediterranean’s most popular destinations. The ship docked at an accessible port, where guests could take part in a variety of excursions, including scenic drives and visits to local attractions.

The accessible transport options made it easy for everyone to experience

e Hagia Sophia in Istanbul

e charming streets of Myk os

“One of the best aspects of this cruise was the emphasis on creating an environment of inclusivity”

the charm of the island, from the windmills of Mykonos Town to the beautiful beaches along the coast. In Athens, the city’s historical sites were just as accessible for me. The Acropolis, with its ancient temples and sweeping views of the city, was my highlight.

Onboard accommodations

The accessible staterooms were spacious, well-appointed and designed, with thoughtful details to make life easier for those with mobility challenges. These included wider doorways, roll-in showers with grab bars and fold-down seats, lowered closet rods and accessible sink areas. One of the best aspects of the cruise was the emphasis on creating an environment of inclusivity. On board, guests could access a range of services and activities that were designed to cater to a variety of needs. Whether it was the public areas designed with wheelchair access in mind, Braille and large-print materials for menus, quieter spaces and trained crew to support those with sensory sensitivities or neurodiverse needs, or assistive listening devices in some of the theatres every guest could enjoy the full range of amenities. Dining was another highlight. The range of restaurants on board offered

not only a variety of cuisines but also accommodations for guests with dietary restrictions and special needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose intolerant options.

The wait staff were knowledgeable and willing to make adjustments. It wasn’t just about physical accommodations but about ensuring that everyone felt included in the social aspects.

But it was the small, thoughtful touches that made the cruise stand out.

It was the ease of navigating through the ship, the comfort of knowing that every need would be met, and the sense of belonging that made the journey feel personal. From the accessible sun decks to the accessible rooms that didn’t skimp on luxury, there was never a moment where I felt that I was being left out of anything.

If you have mobility challenges or other accessibility needs, I highly recommend this seven-night Mediterranean voyage on the Sun Princess – it’s ideal for a luxurious and inclusive – experience.

book it

A seven-night accessible Mediterranean cruise aboard Sun Princess is priced from £1,199pp, with all-inclusive meals and special onboard amenities. princesscruises.com

Pictured: (clockwise from top left) The Sun Princess in port; The white buildings of Mykonos contrast with the island’s blue waters; Horizons restaurant (James Morgan); Teppanyaki is offered onboard; Magic tricks; Istanbul’s Hagia Sophie; The Piazza on the ship; (James Morgan) Jessica Heather

Jessica Heather

Luxury Budapest a capital choice

With new five-star hotels, finedining restaurants and worldclass cultural attractions, Budapest offers a bespoke city break, says Steve Hartridge

plush and exceptional

“This restaurant sits on the site of what was once the home of a pumping station that fed water to the Royal Palace,” says our waiter, as he pours me a glass of premier Kreinbacher Prestige Brut from Hungary’s Somlo region.

“A lunch that begins with sparkling wine is usually a good lunch,” he says –and I am not about to disagree as the fizz pairs perfectly with my seafood linguini.

I am in Felix Kitchen and Bar, one of Budapest’s top dining spots which occupies an unbeatable location at the base of Castle Hill, looking down on the

Danube and the lower-lying Pest half of the city across the river.

Felix Kitchen and Bar is a plush place, with a beautifully restored ceiling, Hungarian artworks adorning the walls, a chef’s table, an air-conditioned terrace – and a menu (in English) to salivate over that features Kaviari Beluga Imperial caviar alongside signature meat and seafood dishes and grills

Across the city, fine-dining restaurants are transforming Budapest’s gastronomic scene, which is one of the most vibrant of any European city.

Also on the same Buda side of the city as Felix Kitchen and Bar, Stand25 Bistro is run by well-known restaurateurs Szabina Szulló and Tamás Széll, who oversee a freestyle Hungarian kitchen in their cozy, bistro-restaurant. The ambience is informal but the cuisine, which showcases a range of Hungarian classics, is from the very top drawer.

An afternoon doesn’t come more refined than high tea at the New York Café. You will notice the queue before you see the grand Italian Renaissancestyle building which is adjoined to the New York Palace Hotel.

The word ‘café’ doesn’t hint at the opulence of the interior or the quality of the service – not to mention the line-up of savouries and cakes on offer.

bespoke stays

Budapest has struggled to shake its label of being primarily a favourite option for stag and hen groups seeking a cost-effective weekend away, but that image is changing with new hotels and attractions appealing to discerning travellers looking for bespoke stays that feature the finer things in life.

And in Hungary’s attractive capital, luxury comes in many forms, whether it’s those fabulous dining spots, a growing

“Whatever luxury means to you, the options for a memorable stay are limitless in one of Europe’s most dynamic capitals”

collection of five-star hotels, swanky cocktail bars, top sporting events like its annual Formula One race or private tours at world-class cultural and historic attractions that rank among the finest and most compelling found anywhere.

Then there is Budapest’s stunning architecture and historical thermal spas that add a touch of time-honoured grandeur and elegance of their own.

The city’s hotel stock has come a long way since Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor checked into the Intercontinental Hotel (now Budapest Marriott), Budapest’s first five-star hotel, in

Pictured: The Széchenyi Chain Bridge spans the River Danube between Buda and Pest; Fisherman’s Bastion, a stunning architectural marvel in the Buda Castle District; Fine dining is available in top restaurants across the city

FIVE-STAR APPEAL

Opposite the magnificent Hungarian Opera House, on the tree-lined UNESCO World Heritage Site Andrássy Avenue, is the W Hotel, which occupies the NeoGothic Drechsler Palace, the former home of the Institute of Ballet.

One of the newest boutique hotels to open is The Dorothea Hotel, Budapest, Autograph Collection in the heart of downtown. It occupies three buildings that were once home to a shipping company, a bank and an insurance firm.

The city’s collection of five-star hotels includes the Kimpton BEM, which opened last summer close to the Castle District, transforming an historic building that was a former army barracks.

Pictured: Top row: Close to the Danube and the city centre, the new boutique Dorothea Hotel, Budapest, Autograph Collection property occupies

shipping company, a bank and an insurance firm; Middle row: Located on the site of what was once the home of a pumping station that fed water to the Royal Palace, Felix Kitchen and Bar is one of Budapest’s top dining spots; Stand25 Bistro, on the Buda side of the city is within walking distance of Chain Bridge; Bottom right: The Hungarian Opera House, open again

offers private tours

Other five-star choices include Kempinski Hotel Corvinus, The Matild Palace, Párisi Udvar Hotel (Hyatt), Hilton Budapest, Hotel Clark Budapest, Anantara New York Palace Budapest, the Al Habtoor Palace Budapest and The Aria Hotel Budapest.

cultural TREASURE TROVE

For those interested in history or the fine arts, Budapest is a treasure trove of possibilities – sign up for a private tour of popular attractions like the recently renovated Hungarian Opera House, Budapest History Museum, Mathias Church or the buzzing Jewish Quarter. Budapest is a city in a phase of impressive “reinvention”, with several initiatives taking shape that are transforming the visitor experience.

These include restoring the Castle District complex on Buda Hill back to something that resembles its heyday before it was badly damaged during the siege of Budapest in 1944-1945.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site with several historical buildings, museums, galleries and panoramic views, it is one of the city’s most visited attractions.

For something a little more modern, the new architecturally striking House of Music Hungary in one of Budapest’s oldest green spaces, City Park, is a

unique institution that celebrates Hungary’s rich musical heritage.

The same park is the home of the Museum of Ethnography, one of Europe’s most innovative museum buildings, with its design evoking a pair of nearly embracing hillsides.

The facility has a unique roof garden, with plants and shrubs and gently sloping ramps on both sides that visitors can walk up for views of the city.

And what could be more selfrewarding than bathing in mineral-rich hot springs? Budapest’s best-known facility, Széchenyi Baths, has 11 medicinal pools and steam cabins and is open year-round. It offers packages including a VIP option with a massage.

Try your hand at a traditional Hungarian practice. After lunch at Első Pesti Rétesház (or Strudel House), have a go at stretching the strudel dough –the resident bakers make it look easy!

A private tour is available at the Unicum Museum, which is a working distillery that also showcases historical exhibits. Unicum is a Hungarian herbal liqueur made from a secret blend of over 40 herbs and spices and is one of Hungary’s national drinks.

Another “must do” is a luxury Danube evening cruise, with a four-course meal, Champagne, local wines, traditional

music and the city’s spectacular skyline. Or maybe your idea of luxury is nothing more than parking yourself on a bench by the Danube and enjoying a lángos, a beloved Hungarian street food that is a deep-fried flatbread made from a yeasted dough, served with a savoury topping like sour cream.

How to get there

British Airways operates an extensive service from London Heathrow to Budapest, with up to 30 flights a week during the summer season. All flights operate with a two-cabin service in both economy and business class. Flight time is around two and a half hours. visithungary.com; ba.com

Pictured: The Museum of Ethnography’s design evokes a pair of nearly embracing hillsides; Stop for lunch at Első Pesti Rétesház (or Strudel House); The architecturally striking House of Music Hungary; Iconic Heroes’ Square

Expedition cruising across the globe

Expedition

cruising provides

a unique and memorable opportunity to discover some of the world’s most remote and extraordinary places, says Jessica Kelly

As the Lindblad Expedition zodiac approaches land, penguin chicks come into view and I realise that I am ﬁnally going to set foot on Antarcticaa place I never thought I’d journey to.

The moment the zodiac slides onto land, the penguins and their chicks waddle over like an adorable little welcome committee.

My eyes well up with appreciation for the experience: the chance to watch mothers feeding their tiny chicks, nurturing them; adolescent penguins losing their baby ﬂuff and getting their adult feathers; and lazy fathers stealing pebbles from other nests and running it back to theirs.

From viewing massive pods of orcas surrounding the boat to hunt to jumping conﬁdently into the southern ocean, expedition cruises are for travellers looking to experience intense emotions at the edge of the world.

the changing face

Journeying to the ends of the earth, with the soft chattering of penguin colonies in the distance and echoes of

“Expedition cruising isn’t just for ultra-ﬁt travellers or an older demographic ”

ice cracking, the otherwise eerie silence of somewhere so isolated ﬁlls me with a sense of gratitude.

“Expedition cruising offers a unique and immersive way to explore some of the world’s most extraordinary and remote regions — from walking among penguins in Antarctica to watching whales breach in the Arctic or Paciﬁc,” explains Akvile Marozaite, CEO of the Expedition Cruise Network (ECN).

And this isn’t just for the ultra-ﬁt travellers or older clients either, says Marozaite, who explains that the demographic is changing.

“Guests are becoming increasingly younger, and the sector continues to attract more solo travellers.

“Expedition cruising is well-suited to solo travel, offering a safe and sociable way to explore remote corners of the world. The informal, welcoming atmosphere onboard fosters a sense of community among guests and crew.”

Nick Hindle, Business Development Manager UK and Ireland with Quark Expeditions, notes that expeditions to the polar regions are becoming far more accessible for travellers looking to push their limits.

“At Quark we’re seeing a trend of clients booking late for the Arctic season with competitive prices,” explains Hindle. “Clients are also asking for

more experiential trips – with the added attraction of heli-centric itineraries on the Ultramarine.”

Quark has also noticed an uptick in Antarctic itineraries with leading photographers like Paul Goldstein, and unique Arctic eclipse voyages in 2026.

knowledge is power

Lindblad Expeditions is paving the way for a modern approach to expedition travel, bringing guests to the world’s most “awe-inspiring destinations,” while emphasising “curiosity, discovery, and sustainability”.

Kathi Riddle, the operator’s Senior Vice President of Sales and Revenue Management, says: “Expedition cruising taps into a real sense of curiosity and the desire to explore, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in some of the world’s most remote and most extraordinary places.”

Riddle notes that travellers are searching for “more than your average trip”, adding: “They want immersive, meaningful experiences that connect them with the natural world – which is what expedition cruising is all about.”

“For decades, we’ve specialised in this kind of travel, especially through our relationship with National Geographic, which combines exploration, science, and education.

Pictured: (clockwise from top) Take a paddle excursion in icy waters with Quark (Michelle Sole); A zodiac approaches the Magellan Discoverer; Expedition cruising is an ideal way to see the solar eclipse in 2026(stock.adobe.com/ IgorZh); HX Expeditions visits remote areas of Svalbard (Jan Hvizdal)

Jessica Kelly Jessica is a travel journalist and photographer living in New York. She’s written for publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Elite Traveler, Thrillist, Lonely Planet, Time and others .

“This immersive spirit is woven into every part of a Lindblad Expeditions journey, from locally sourced, thoughtfully curated menus to enriching onboard programmes led by expedition staff and National Geographic Experts.”

Quark Expeditions’ Hindle suggests for agents “knowledge is power” and urges them to take advantage of the training collateral that is available.

“Use opportunities like our training portal Polar Pro, as well as attending some of the many immersive training events we run including Polar Pints and Expedition Brews and News,” he says.

“The polar regions, particularly Antarctica and the Arctic, remain iconic and continue to be in high demand, especially among those seeking oncein-a-lifetime experiences tied to wildlife, landscapes, and climate-focussed interest,” says ECN’s Marozaite.

“Overall, clients are increasingly looking for immersive, meaningful travel, whether that means kayaking among icebergs, hiking through tropical rainforests or connecting with local cultures in more remote regions.”

Depending on a client’s budget, a few options stand out: from the Arctic and the Antarctica, to the Kimberley Coast in Western Australia and the Galapagos Islands, expedition travel continues to

grow, with many travellers willing to pay big bucks.

eventful expeditions

1 Quark Expeditions offers an ‘Antarctica By Helicopter: Icebergs, Mountains and Remote Lands’ expedition, with four options throughout 2025 and 2026. Prices start from £10,793pp and guests experience two helicopter excursions.

2 ‘Niagara and the Great Lakes’ with Viking brings guests through city skylines and natural attractions, sharing history, stories of wildlife, and incredible views along the way. At Port Colborne, there’s access to Niagara Falls.

3 Antarctica 21 is hosting a one-off aircruise in December 2026 on the Magellan Discoverer. The cruise will explore Tierra

Svalbard, Norway

“Expedition travel continues to grow with many travellers willing to pay big bucks for these experiences”

del Fuego and Antarctica over 10 days and nine nights.

4 Guests on the ‘Svalbard Circumnavigating Spitsbergen, in the Realm of the Polar Bear’ voyage with HX Expeditions can enjoy wildlife viewing in the midnight sun. On the expedition boats, travellers should keep their eyes open for Arctic foxes, birds, walruses, massive polar bears, and reindeer.

booK it

Lindblad Expeditions ventures beyond polar regions. The ‘Exploring the Galápagos’ itinerary starts at $5,557pp. intrepidtravel.com

Pictured: (Clockwise from top) An expedition ship traverses the waters around Svalbard (Yuri Choufour); Shore excursions get closer to the wild landscapes (Nicolas Singh); Expect to glimpse walruses with HX (Yuri Choufour); Penguins go about their business; A map of the Svalbard region

Slow travel in Côte d’Azur

The city of Nice plays host to the palm-lined Promenade des Anglais, pastel-hued Old Town and bustling markets full of flowers and fresh produce.

Combine this with the dramatic mountain backdrops and lush landscapes of the region, it’s the perfect blend of Riviera glamour and laid-back French charm. What better place to practice slow travel – a chance to wander, savour, and truely connect with your surroundings.

head for the hills

If you’re craving a break from city buzz and a deeper connection to nature, you’re in the right place: 80% of the Nice Côte d’Azur region is mountainous, offering peaceful escapes. Hike through

unfiltered beauty in places such as the Mercantour National Park, where trails lead to alpine lakes and waterfalls. Whether you’re after a gentle amble or a more challenging hike, there’s a route to suit every pace. And why rush?

Stay overnight in a mountain cabin or yurt, or unwind in eco-friendly hotels like Hotel Les Chamois. Sink into the thermal waters of Berthemont-les-Bains, meet friendly donkeys in La Tour-sur-Tinée, or cross paths with cowherds in the alpine meadows of Authion and Isola. Here in the mountains, time stretches out, and nature takes the lead.

explore the coast

Prefer to stay by the seaside? The 42km GR Lou Camin Nissart trail winds through hills and down to the Promenade des Anglais, an ideal way to explore the mountains and city on foot. You could also take the train along the coastline, from Cap d’Ail to Cagnessur-Mer, where the scenery unfolds like a film, or cycle the 15 kilometre coastal bike path, with plenty of cafés and sunny spots to pause in.

The beautiful beaches offer the perfect setting to unwind and embrace the spirit of slow tourism. Many, like Carras and Centenaire, are accessible and smoke-free – ideal for those slow,

mindful days looking out at the dazzling blue ocean.

Soak up the culture

The region is a gallery without walls, where art meets landscape at every turn. Sculptures like Bernar Venet’s Nine Oblique Lines and Jaume Plensa’s Conversation in Nice dot the streets.

“Take the train along the coastline from Cap d’Ail to Cagnes-sur-Mer, where the scenery unfolds like a film”

Even the tramway lines become moving art, featuring visual and sound pieces by renowned contemporary artists like Plensa, Ben, Ottoniel, and Kim Sooka.

The region’s beauty also lives in its architecture, from Belle Époque façades to Art Deco elegance at Palais de la Méditerranée, and the vivid domes of the Russian Orthodox Cathedral.

And take time to linger over a long lunch, as you enjoy local wines and savour every delicious bite at the many incredible eateries in this culturally rich, sun-soaked region.

Practising slow tourism means not just seeing, but noticing, and in the Côte d’Azur, there’s beauty in every detail.

Pictured: (Clockwise from top) Villefranchesur-Mer is just one of many stunning beaches (stock.adobe. com/Sergey Dzyuba); Mercantour National Park is ideal for scenic hikes to alpine lakes; Take a stroll in one of the picturesque towns, surrounded by beautiful historic buildings

ROME

An ideal getaway for foodies, history buffs, pilgrims and couples, Italy’s capital offers two cities for the price of one, discovers Stuart Forster

DAY ONE

carbonara and the colosseum

Morning: Head to the city’s best-known landmark, the Colosseum, ahead of its 08.30 opening to enjoy the world’s biggest-ever amphitheatre at its quietest. Combination tickets are available, including entry to the nearby Roman Forum and Palatine – the centre of power when the Roman Empire was in its heyday. Full Experience Underground and Arena tickets are required to see where the gladiators waited to go into action, and to access historic sites such as the house of the Emperor Augustus.

Afternoon: Take a bus from the Colosseum to the Mercato di Testaccio to enjoy regional cuisine, including authentic pasta Carbonara, at an indoor market frequented by Romans. From there, stroll alongside the River Tiber to stick your hand inside the Bocca della Verità (Mouth of Truth), which appeared in Roman Holiday, the Academy Awardwinning film that provides some great ideas for things to do in Rome.

Evening: Climb the Monument to Vittorio Emanuele II, named in honour of Italy’s first king, and enjoy fine views over the city from the Panoramic Terrace.

Alternatively, stay on the mid-level and sip an Aperol Spritz at the Caffetteria Italia al Vittoriano while gazing towards the Colosseum at sunset. Pause at the nearby Trajan’s Column for a pre-dinner dose of antiquity.

DAY TWO skip the crowds

Morning: An early start to the Vatican City means you may be able to enjoy St Peter’s Square to yourself before continuing to the popular Vatican Museums, whose ‘Skip the Line’ tickets may feel like a godsend to later arrivals. The museums display some impressive artworks and ornate ceilings, including Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel. If that doesn’t leave you breathless, book a ticket to climb the 551 steps to the dome of St Peter’s Basilica.

Afternoon: Grab cannoli or tiramisu at Two Sizes before viewing the ornate fountains at the Piazza Navona. Stroll to the Pantheon to see the world’s largest unsupported concrete dome before continuing to the Trevi Fountain and the Piazza di Spagna, the location of the Spanish Steps. Rent a golf cart in the Villa Borghese Gardens to scoot

around the landscaped park, whose Galleria Borghese holds a highly rated art collection.

Evening: Book a guided food tour of Trastevere for insights into the heritage and gastronomy of a hip yet historic district that’s popular for bars, restaurants and nightlife. Alternatively, meander along the lanes and pop into a bar such as Cambio or Enoteca Trastevere for an aperitif. Nannarella and Tonnarello both serve hearty Roman dishes that replace the energy burnt while sightseeing.

Book iT

Jet2holidays offers three-night Jet2CityBreaks in Rome, including international flights from Newcastle with 23kg of checked baggage, cabin baggage and room-only accommodation in a three-star hotel for £854pp. jet2holidays.com

Pictured: (Clockwise from top) The Collosseum is even more spectacular at sunrise; Swiss Guards in traditional uniform at the Vatican; Vatican by night; The Trevi Fountain

ACTIVITIES IN GRAPEVINE

As an ideal mid-way starting point for the world-famous Route 66, Grapevine, Texas, is well worth checking out during a U.S. roadtrip

STOMPING GOOD TIME

In addition to being just a 10-minute drive from Dallas, one of the FIFA World Cup 2026 host cities, Grapevine has plenty to keep people within its own boundaries. Savour both local and world vintages at Grapefest, an annual celebration of all things wine. Other highlights of the festival include the Champagne Cork Shoot-Off and the messy, but fun, Grape Stomp. This year it takes place September 11-14.

AN UNREAL EXPERIENCE

GRAPE FUN

However, visitors need not wait until the autum to get their grape ﬁx. Conisseurs should join a tour of local wineries and tasting rooms such as ‘Grapevine Wine Tours’, to savour Texan crisp whites and bold reds. Or curate your own route – drop into Bull Lion, the Bingham Family Vineyards’ tasting room, or Winestein’s Tasting Rooms, whose mission is to make every patron feel like a wine expert.

Forget stuffy museums and hushed art galleries and step into the world of Meow Wolf: The Real Unreal. An immersive art installation created by a collective of Santa Fe and Dallas area artists, the exhibits range from wacky to nostalgic. Spaces include ‘The Front Yard’, a recreation of a garden surrounding a family home, and ‘Brrrmuda’, a room ﬁlled with fridges, with each portal opening on to a different experience.

MAIN CHARACTER

Over three days in May, Main Street Fest takes over the heart of Historic Grapevine. The familyfriendly celebration serves up live music, craft beverage experiences, food stalls, shopping for local crafts and goods, and a KidZone. Scream at the top of your lungs at its Carnival and Midway, or take a more demure turn around the Grapevine Art Project to check out the work of local talent.

YULE LOVE CHRISTMAS SEASON

Hailed as the Christmas Capital of Texas®, Grapevine plays host to more than 1,400 festive events over 40 days during the yuletide period. The Annual Carol of Lights sees the Historic Main Street illuminated with rousing performances and, of course, lights. The Farmstead Christmas, which takes place at Nash Farm, includes ornament crafting, traditional music and seasonal refreshements.

BARGAIN OR BOUTIQUE

Whether its a mega-mall with brand-name shops or a local high street lined with boutiques, Grapevine has both. Bargain hunters should ﬂock to Grapevine Mills, to pick up designer item discounts at Saks OFF 5th, Kate Spade and Neiman Marcus, or shop at popular favourites such as H&M. Then head to Historic Main Street, where over 80 locally-owned boutiques and shops jostle for shoppers’ attention.

YEAR-ROUND APPEAL COMES

naturally

Canada is looking to tempt a fresh wave of travellers with a new campaign that puts the onus on the many faces of its ‘natural wonders’, says Steve Hartridge

It didn’t seem up for the fight. A brief struggle, a flexing of my fishing rod and it plopped almost apologetically into my net.

Maybe it had been hooked previously and assumed this was another “catch and release” day.

If it had been a Northern Pike or Walleye it would have been promptly returned to the pristine waters, but as a Lake Trout its fate was sealed: it would be joining us for our shore lunch.

The ﬁsh was doubly unlucky: it was the ﬁrst one I had ever hooked despite several attempts on previous trips around the world.

But in northern Manitoba, a land of countless freshwater lakes but few people, the ﬁsh-abundant waters readily give up their residents and by the time we reached the sandy strip of “beach”

we had a catch large enough to feed our group and ﬁll a couple of freezer boxes that our Indigenous guides would take home to their families.

We watched – as did a couple of bald eagles from a nearby tree – as the Lake Trout were cleaned, gutted, covered in local spices and herbs and then deepfried. What followed was, without doubt, the most delicious and certainly the freshest seafood lunch I have ever had.

wilderness experience

A day on serene Egenolf Lake, for both novice and expert anglers, is one of the activities offered by Gangler’s North Seal River Lodge. In Manitoba’s subArctic region, between tundra and boreal forest and surrounded by traditional First Nations land, Gangler’s offers a remote wilderness exoerience.

It’s a three-hour light aircraft ﬂight –that’s 640 air miles – from Winnipeg to Gangler’s private 5,400ft airstrip, mostly ﬂying over a vast patchwork of lakes and islands, before arrivng at what owner Ken Gangler says is “one of the most logistically challenging tourism operations in North America”.

Gangler’s started out in 1998 as a premium product for those looking for their own big fish stories – the lodge has the right to fish more than six million acres – but has since diversified and now also offers a range of eco-activities.

These include scenic flightseeing trips to remote lakes on its turbine Otter floatplanes – the aircraft that famously opened up the Canadian North as the first purpose-built bush plane – hiking the hilly sand eskers (unique geological features formed millions of years

Pictured: (left page)

Hiking in Whiteshell Provincial Park, Manitoba (Travel Manitoba); (this page)

Images from Gangler’s North Seal River Lodge, Manitoba

ago by glacial lifting), paddling on the slow-moving North Seal River, evening walks, mountain bike rides and viewing the Northern Lights.

Guests might come across wolves – we didn’t but they were around as we saw plenty of tracks in the sand – moose, black bear and, during the migration season, caribou.

It was a little too early in the year to see the northern lights, although these are almost guaranteed for visitors who stay later in the summer, promise Ken.

“Over the last few years, we have had a 97% success rate in seeing the Aurora Borealis,” he says.

The cabins at Gangler’s – a mix of oneand two-bedroom ensuite cabins – are more rustic than Relais & Châteaux but this is a place and location where luxury is in the eye of the beholder.

find spear points and fragments of axe heads that are 2,500 years old. They are just lying there on the sandy surface and undisturbed because few other people have ever trodden up here.”

Knowing you are one of relatively few to have visited; embracing the serenity; being hundreds of miles from the nearest community; casting a rod on a lake that has never seen commercial fishing; or kicking back in an Adirondack chair next to waters few have ever pushed a kayak out onto, qualifies as luxury in my book.

Canada, naturally.

“In Canada, jaw-dropping views are not staged or temporary, they are just out there all the time”

experiences that come as “standard” in Canada: awe-inspiring landscapes, interactions with wildlife and natural phenomenon, and warm-hearted locals invariably ready to lend a helping hand and offer advice to visitors.

“There’s nothing else up here for miles,” says Ken. “It’s as remote as you can get. On our walking trips we often

Experiences such as those on offer at Gangler’s are of the type Destination Canada is flagging in its new global brand campaign, which was launched at Rendez-vous Canada, the country’s major showcase of tourism products, in Winnipeg in May. Canada, naturally. is the tagline of an initiative that illustrates extraordinary

The idea is that what might seem “ordinary” to Canadians – perhaps looking at the northern lights, seeing moose emerge from a forest, a lobster lunch in the Maritimes, strolling the cobbles streets of Montréal, even fishing on a remote lake – feels extraordinary to guests.

An accompanying tenant is that for those with open minds who are looking for fresh perspectives, Canada is “the place” to choose for a holiday. ▶

Pictured: Sky Holistic Adventure, Saskatchewan, an indigenous owned experience; Carcross/ Tagish Management Corporation - Carcross, Yukon

Or, as Gloria Loree, Senior VicePresident, Marketing Strategy & CMO, for Destiation Canada, puts it: “Travellers are looking for more authentic experiences that immerse them in the lives of people doing ordinary things.

“In Canada, jaw-dropping views are not staged or temporary, they are just out there all the time and have been for over 10,000 years.”

She adds: “There is a feeling that now is the time to target those guests who are attracted to unfiltered experiences and are open to getting out to more remote communities.”

Destination Canada officials in Winnipeg were hesitant to suggest that Canada is a beneficiary of the often negative (political) narrative directed at its southern neighbour, the USA, but did concede the favourable attention Canada has received this year was welcome.

strong sales

“I think we are ‘having a moment’. Canada tries to position itself in a good way and is generally seen as a “good’ country…

so we are fortunate to feel the support from much of the world right now,” says Marsha Walden, Destination Canada’s outgoing President & CEO.

Tour operators were more willing to confirm that Canada is very much flavour of the month.

“Canada is having a good booking year in 2025, with strong selling in both the lates and early markets. The trend for early bookings is set now and seems to start earlier each year, but the late market is performing well for both east and west destinations this year,” says Stuart Rogers, Head of Product and Commercial for Canadian Affair.

It is a similar picture for Audley Travel, explains Product Manager James Butler.

“Canada is selling well and remains one of our best-selling destinations. The country offers a genuinely warm welcome to visitors…it is noticeable that we have been getting more late booking enquiries than usual.”

Keir Ashley, Destination Manager, First Class Holidays, says: “We have experienced keen interest in Canada

for 2026 and even had some enquiries for travel extending to 2027. The west remains a popular first-time visitor destination, and the Atlantic provinces are also particularly strong.”

Destination Canada has set two targets by 2030. Firstly, it hopes to rank among the top 10 most popular destinations for holidays. Secondly, it wants to ▶

Pictured: Enjoy abundant seafood in Atlantic Canada

Credit Brock Jorgensen

achieve $160 billion in direct annual revenue from its visitors. Key to both is tempting more travellers to spread their visits across all four seasons – and there are signs that a focus on promoting traditional shoulder seasons autumn and winter is bearing fruit.

“Autumn and winter are performing well; Canada’s fall colours are engaging more UK customers,” says Rogers at Canadian Affair.

“We will soon reveal details of our Travel Agents Alberta winter initiative, where agents and a partner can book

EXPERT INSIGHT

Robert Stapley, Titan Travel

“As a product manager it is a super time to immerse fully in Canada and focus on new opportunities for future tours. We might introduce Manitoba fishing lodges and we are looking at adding more Indigenous product”

seven days of winter experiences in Banff and Lake Louise – they can choose to ski or try non-ski activities for an amazing price. It’s the third year we have been operating the incentive, and it helps agents sell the destination with great first- hand experience.”

Audley Travel is another operator seeing rising demand for autumn, says Butler. “Yes, we have seen more enquiries for travel in October and actively promote the month as an excellent time to experience the country’s highlights away from the crowds.

“It’s also an excellent time for viewing bears and autumn colours. Winter travel is growing in popularity too, with northern lights viewing particularly popular.”

Prestige Holidays will shortly reveal details of its autumn campaign, says Hunn, who adds: “Early to mid-October is such a great time to visit. Fall colours come to mind in Eastern Canada and wildlife viewing excursions in Western Canada offer a great opportunity to see bears, whales, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

“Also, throughout the Rockies, golden larch, a deciduous conifer, put on a stunning show of colour against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.”

Tourism is big business in Canada: last year the sector generated $130 billion

“Canada is seen as a ‘good’ country so we are fortunate to feel the support from much of the world right now”

in direct visitor spending - that’s more than $350 million every day. Destination Canada’s research shows that every $1 the organisation invests generates $23.85 in total economic activity.

BOOK IT

* First Class Holidays has a nine-day self-drive West Coast wonders trip, from £2,849pp. Departing September 8 2025, the deal includes return flights from the UK, six days’ car rental, eight nights’ accommodation (with two nights at West Coast Wilderness Lodge) a Stanley Park Cycle tour, ferry crossings, and other activiities including a Malahat SkyWalk and whale watching tour in Victoria. fcholidays.com

* Titan Travel has a 14-day Canadian Rockies and Vancouver tour, from Banff to Vancouver, starting from £4,295pp, based on departures on May 2 2026 or October 1 2026 and two adults sharing. The deal includes Titan’s Nationwide return chauffeur service titantravel.co.uk

Pictured: (clockwise) Hiking in winter with Painted Warriors, an Indigenous-operated company in Alberta Girth Hitch Guiding, Red Deer, Alberta; Whale Watching Essipit Cruise runs guided whale watching tours in the St. Lawrence River, Québec

Seaside towns in Atlantic Canada

Breathe in the bracing, fresh sea air; listen to the poetic crest of the waves; and take in the charms of Atlantic Canada’s seaside towns.

New Brunswick

Colourful shops and buildings cluster around the wharf area in St. Andrews by the Sea. Check into the Algonquin Resort, one of Canada’s historic Grand Railway Hotels, before discovering the themed gardens at Kingsbrae Garden.

Race across the ocean bed by car at low tide on the way to Ministers Island, dropping in at the former home of Canadian Pacific Railway baron Willian Van Horne.

Learn about local marine life at the Fundy Discovery Aquarium, before embarking on a whale-watching excursion in the Bay of Fundy, famed for sightings of these gentle giants.

Newfoundland and Labrador

As the light of the setting sun reflects off a 10,000 year-old iceberg, and fishing boats sway in the surf, Twillingate is at its best. Its rugged coastline and picturesque streets are emblematic of the region’s beguiling landscapes.

The town is one of the stops along Iceberg Alley, a vast corridor of ocean where icebergs can be sighted in spring and summer.

Long Point Lighthouse is one of the optimum vantage points, with views over the distant Notre Dame Bay.

The annual Fish, Fun and Folk Festival during the last weekend of July is particular fun, with its scavenger hunts, parades, fireworks, and concerts.

Nova Scotia

The coastal town of Lunenburg is designated a UNESCO World Heritage

Site due to its brightly painted wooden buildings, rich shipbuilding legacy and picturesque waterfront.

Join a guided walking tour for local insights into colourful colonial buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, the Bluenose II schooner, and its distilleries and arts scene. Coastal tours are also available in a Zodiac boat.

Fresh Atlantic seafood is a must-do treat before hitting the town’s museums and galleries, including the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic – a deep dive on the area’s shipbuilding history.

Prince Edward Island

The stuff of fairytales, the charming village of Victoria-by-the-Sea is a former 19th century seaport whose old world charm and character has been revitalised today by an influx of artists, craftspeople and chefs.

Don’t miss the Ewe and Dye Weavery, where rare Bluefaced Leicester sheep and Angora rabbits provide the wool for their quirky handcrafted goods.

Buy a ticket for a performance at the Victoria Playhouse, or visit the Victoria Seaport Museum and explore the Keepers of the Light exhibit.

Waterfront views can be soaked up at The Lobster Barn Pub and Eatery, while devouring delectable PEI lobster rolls.

Pictured: (Clockwise from top) A whale breaching in the Bay of Fundy; Lobster Barn is a popular PEI eatery; Lunenberg is instantly recognisable through its brightly painted houses; Atlantic Canada seafood is some of Canada’s best

“the culinary offering is a big part of wickaninnish”

Tecé Upham, Sales and Marketing Manager at Wickaninnish Inn, British Columbia, explains the popular property’s unique offering

We are a family-owned and operated property in Toﬁno, on the very western tip of Vancouver Island.

We treat all our guests as individuals and try to learn as much about them as possible before they arrive here. That way we can provide the most customised experience that we can, along with sharing our love and knowledge of Toﬁno and the area.

The ﬁrst things guests see when they arrive is the temperate rainforest, with its ancient cedars, and the Paciﬁc Ocean. They might spot cormorants diving into the sea or sea lions playing offshore.

The culinary offering is a big part of the Wickaninnish Inn experience. We are celebrating our recently-awarded Michelin Two Key distinction. Clayton Fontaine, our executive chef, oversees The Pointe Restaurant and creates dishes with ingredients sourced from the island. Signature dishes feature local seafood – our Toﬁno ﬁsh and chips are particularly good! Guests can also choose from a variety of activities. These include surf lessons – the sandy beaches of the Esowista Peninsula are great for learning how to surf – paddling out to Clayoquot Sound, trails that wind through the

rainforest, day trips to explore the dunes at Wickaninnish Beach, ﬁshing for salmon and halibut and a multiday island hopping trip. There are sightseeing ﬂights, boat tours, biking and Hot Springs Cove, and a geothermal hot springs reached by a boardwalk trail.

In season we offer escorted whale watching and bear watching trips.

To reach us from Vancouver you can ﬂy into Toﬁno from Vancouver South Terminal (year round) or Vancouver Harbour (summer only) or catch a ferry from Vancouver to Nanaimo and then drive to the inn, a journey of about two hours and 45 minutes.

Pictured: Tecé Upham; Wickaninnish Inn Spa patio, Credit: Jeremy Koreski

BANFF AND LAKE LOUISE

1 AMAZING VISTAS

The peaks of Mt Rundle and Mt Cascade kiss the clear sky, and tower over the heritage-filled streets of Banff. While nearby Lake Louise is a popular destination yearround, captivating visitors with its beauty in both frozen and summer conditions.

2 UNIQUE ACCOMMODATION

From the grand Fairmont Banff Springs, a castle-like hotel built in 1888 that oozes old-world glamour, to the tucked-away Sundance Lodge, deep in the forest. Let’s not forget the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, perched regally on the water’s edge, offering front-row views to nature’s masterpiece.

3 ABUNDANT WILDLIFE

The area is teeming with wildlife year-round, and there are plenty of animals to see. Alongside iconic locals like bears, beavers, and moose, you might spot elusive cougars, soaring eagles, and majestic elk roaming through forests. Dawn and dusk are prime viewing times, when animals are most active.

4 CLASSIC BITES

Mountain air builds an appetite, but Banff knows how to feed it, with local foods such as elk tartare at The Bison, or mountaintop views at the Sky Bistro. For a real treat, try the ‘Eat the Castle’ tour at Banff Springs: a 2.5hour journey through gourmet bites and wine pairings.

5 STYLISH SKIING

Banff is home to three world-class ski resorts; Mount Norquay, Sunshine Village, and Lake Louise, collectively known as SkiBig3. Together, they offer endless terrain, deep powder, and jaw-dropping alpine views. Whether you’re carving down the slopes or just soaking in the scenery from the chairlift, it’s a snow-lover’s dream.

Vancouver, Coast and Mountains

British Columbia is made for exploring and there’s a region that combines scenic drives with wildlife, wine, outdoor adventures and more, says Steve Hartridge

WHY SELL IT

British Columbia’s Vancouver, Coast and Mountains is one of six tourism regions in the province. Home to both Vancouver and Whistler, it is the most visited region in BC. Its constituent parts are:

• Sea to Sky Corridor, between Vancouver and Whistler, considered one of the most beautiful drives in the world.

• Sunshine Coast and Bowen Island, only accessible by ferry or air.

• Fraser Valley, BC’s largest agricultural area and one of nine wine regions.

• Harrison River Valley, a salmon stronghold and a gathering area for thousands of wintering bald eagles

• Fraser Canyon – hiking and rafting in the heart of the Gold Rush Trail.

MAIN ATTRACTIONS

Also known as Highway 99, The Sea to Sky Highway offers a spectacular twoand-a-half-hour road trip. Stops include Brittania Beach, home to the Brittania Mine Museum, a National Historic Site of Canada that was once the largest copper mine in the Commonwealth.

The community is benefitting from a

major redevelopment with new housing, retail and restaurants giving visitors more reasons to stop.

The highway leads to Squamish, where the premier attraction is the Sea to Sky gondola, a 10-minute gondola lift from the road up to various viewing points.

Squamish is also home to the BC Railway Museum, with its collection of 95 heritage railway locomotives and cars, and operators like Sea to Sky Air, which runs flightseeing tours.

At 180 kilometres long, the Sunshine Coast Trail is the longest hut-to-hut hiking trail in Canada. This coastal region offers a range of boat tours, kayaking, wilderness lodges and is well known for its community of artists.

Clients doing a self-drive should follow the Purple Banner Route: artists hang purple flags outside their studios or galleries, an invitation to drop in.

Vancouver has a wine region right in its backyard: The Fraser Valley. Also known as the “Berry Capital of Canada” it offers a wide array of farm-fresh produce, breweries, along with hiking trails, biking paths and fishing spots.

WHAT’S NEW

Opening this summer is Squamish Canyon. A 2.2 kilometre loop along elevated walkways that will allow visitors to immerse themselves in nature and explore the Mamquam River and Falls while learning about local wildlife, ecosystems and the Indigenous culture of the Sḵwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw. the attraction will include a forest lounge and children’s playground.

THE TOURIST BOARD

“The Sunshine Coast makes for a perfect self-touring route paired with Vancouver Island. Spend a couple of nights coming up the coast and then use BC Ferries to go across from Powell River to Comox (Little River) on Vancouver Island, a sailing of around one and a half hours,” says Heather McGillivray of Vancouver, Coast and Mountains Tourism Region.

“Then spend three days coming down the east coast of Vancouver Island, before crossing back over to Vancouver on a ferry from Nanaimo or Victoria.

“Each spring, three tulip festivals bloom across the Fraser Valley into the Harrison River Valley, creating a tulip trail through the region.” destinationbc.ca

Pictured: Aerial view of Desolation Sound, including Mt Denman and the Coast Range Mountains, Sunshine Coast Destination BC/ Andrew Strain; Tulip festival in the Fraser Valley; A group of friends river rafting on the Vedder River with Chilliwack River Rafting Destination BC/Hubert Kang

As seen on screen: Alberta

Along with its astounding beauty and exceptional activities, Canada’s Alberta is the backdrop for many a high-profile movie and TV production.

FORTRESS MOUNTAIN

Fortress Mountain in Kananaskis Country, which has played host to many Hollywood greats, is featured in the opening episode of season two of The Last of Us

A former ski resort, Fortress Mountain has been a favourite spot for hikers and cat skiers since 2004. Nearby Spray Lakes Provincial Park is an idyllic canoeing spot, or visitors can take in the calm of the snow-dusted landscapes from an Alpine Helicopter tour.

Fans of The Last of Us should rewatch the first season which was filmed in more than 180 locations across Alberta.

PIPESTONE CREEK

As Walking With Dinosaurs makes its debut on screen after a 26-year hiatus, visitors to Alberta can walk in the footsteps of ancient Jurassic beasts.

In addition to traversing landscapes that prehistoric giants wandered, visitors can join a ‘Paleontologist for a Day’ tour, digging up the past as they excavate their own fossils at the Pipestone Creek bonebed. The day trip also includes a tour of the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum, which houses thousands of dinosaur remains.

BANFF

Picturesque resort town Banff is perched high in the Rocky Mountains. Travellers might have been even more inspired than usual to visit the beauty spot, following its inclusion as a pit stop in the BBC’s Race Across the World.

Visitors shouldn’t miss the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, the birthplace of the national park system; Banff Park Museum which showcases Banff’s history and wildlife; and Banff Avenue, lined with shops, restaurants and art galleries.

CALGARY AND BADLANDS

Calgary is probably most famous for the Calgary Stampede, but ‘Cowtown’

has another string to its bow too.

Ghostbusters: Afterlife features recognisable locales across the movie’s backdrops, such as Lougheed House, the oldest building in Calgary.

Film buffs should also check out the Canadian Badlands, especially Drumheller, Horsethief Canyon and the

“The first season of The Last of Us was filmed in more than 180 locations across Alberta”

Bleriot Ferry that crosses the Red Deer River, as they all made an appearance.

THE CANADIAN ROCKIES

The Rockies were a primary filming location for Cowboy-themed tear-jerker Brokeback Mountain in summer 2004.

Spot Mount Lougheed, Fortress Mountain and Moose Mountain, which were combined in post-production to create the main peak featured in the movie.

Plus Kananaskis Country featured extensively in campsite scenes shot in Goat Creek, Upper Kananaskis Lake and Elbow Falls, with additional filming taking place is the quaint towns of Fort Macleod and Cowley.

Pictured: Waterton

As her five-year term as President & CEO for Destination Canada draws to a close, Marsha Walden looks back at some of her key challenges and achievements

“We have done good work

at Destination Canada in pulling

our partners together”

You took up your position in 2020 – just before Covid struck. How do you sum up the challenges and achievements of these ﬁve years?

Well, it was certainly a difﬁcult start!

We put in a lot of work to get ready for when our industry reopened.

My key objective was to make sure we had everything in place for when the world was able to open its doors again.

But the unwanted pause also gave us time to think about where we should be heading as a tourism organisation, what the future would look like and what we needed to put in place to better compete globally. I think we came out of it (the pandemic) as ready and as strong as

any destination in the world, and we are pleased, of course, to continue to play a key part in Canada’s recovery.

I am very proud of the way our team is contributing to the recovery of the industry. Initiatives we have put in place include better use of data, which allows us to identify the types of travellers that want to come to Canada

We now we have over 200 different streams of data coming into our Data Collective, so we can look at who is buying, what they are buying and how much they are spending

AI has helped us build an incredible platform that is an enormous resource for every tourism provider in Canada.

Canada has received plenty of positive media coverage this year. Has this helped to increase visitor numbers?

I do think Canada is having a bit of a moment! We have had the attention of the world in a lot of positive and sympathetic ways. We are being told by our travel trade partners that among those clients who are changing their travel plans (away from the USA) Canada is emerging as their number one alternative choice. We are seeing a lift from some markets, including the UK.

At what pace do you expect Canada’s tourism sector to grow?

We set an ambitious target last year of achieving C$160 billion in annual (tourism) revenues by 2030. We are also aiming to reach seventh spot in the table of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. We will have to work collectively to get there but we are on track: in 2024 revenue was C$130 billion, so we feel good that we are going to reach our targets.

Indigenous tourism products are now part of Canada’s tourism mix. Are you proud of the way these have grown?

I am not sure proud is the right word; we feel a responsibility to be part of the reconciliation of Canada and tourism offers a unique opportunity to do that. Our business is all about showcasing culture and giving different regions and people an opportunity to tell their stories. We can do it many compelling ways, but we also have a deeper commitment to ensuring “Canada’s real story” to this point in time is told in truthful ways.

What have been your most memorable travel experiences in Canada?

Oh, my goodness! I have had a lot of amazing experiences. There have been plenty of jaw-dropping moments with polar bears and whales – experiences that were just so powerful. And driving the Iceﬁeld Parkway, on the way from Jasper to Calgary, there was a grazing of snow on everything…it was the most beautiful sight. Every Canadian must do that drive because it is so awe-inspiring.

Pictured: (above) Marsha Walden; Aerial view of the Icefields Parkway, Alberta (Jason Hill)

NUNAVUT

A beautiful and vast region of the Canadian Arctic, Nunavut is much more accessible than travel advisors or their clients may realise

The icy tundras of the Arctic, a land where light splinters from sharp white into a multi-coloured expanse, may strike you as unreachable.

But regular flights from Ottawa and Montréal travel there, and from April to October, visitors can take a two-hour flight from Nuuk, Greenland.

During the summer months, you can reach this realm of frost-shattered peaks, lumbering polar bears and free-roaming caribou via boat.

For those in search of solitude and soul-searching discovery, Nunavut has no equal. Travellers will be humbled by its vastness: its landmass dwarfs Mexico, though its population is smaller than Monaco. You can lose yourself in the immense, peaceful silence of a wideopen dreamscape.

A living culture

But it is not just an option for those looking to seek a profound connection

with nature; it will also appeal to those wishing to embrace a unique society, one that has thrived for thousands of years.

The culture of the Inuit is vibrant and alive. “Nunavut” means “Our Land” in Inuktitut, and as 85% of the population are Inuit the name rings true.

The region is home to one of the most unique Indigenous experiences on Earth. Learn to ice fish with locals, dine on delicacies such as maqtaaq (whale fat), pipsi (dried Arctic char) and seal, or swaddle yourself in blankets at night to watch the green and violet swirl of the Northern Lights (aqsarniit) overhead, as elders enthral you with ancient stories, tales of creation and mythical creatures.

arctic wildlife spotting

Blizzard-wracked Nunavut’s wilderness is captivating in its own right but it also serves as a blinding stage for some of the planet’s most iconic wildlife. Spy a polar bear – a mountain of muscle – or

“The culture of the Inuit is vibrant and alive”

the spiral tusk of a narwhal breaking the ocean’s surface. Inland, herds of caribou thunder across the tundra.

seasonal shifts

When you choose to go will tune your adventure to a different frequency.

Visit in spring (April-May) and you will find a stunning, crisp world of snow and ice, with temperatures between −15°C and 0°C setting the scene for land-based journeys. Arrive for the milder summer (June-August), and Nunavut transmutes into a thawed, thriving landscape.

Temperatures between 4°C and 15°C are ideal for expedition cruises and wildlife spotting under the surreal blaze of the midnight sun.

A trip to Nunavut is not thoughtless tourism. It is a thread of unreal moments, of dreams realised. A real, raw encounter with the wild.

Pictured: (clockwise from top) Climbing Thor Peak is an exciting challenge for adventure seekers; Powerful whales break the surface of the ocean as they breach (Michelle Valberg); The greens and violets of the northern lights swirl in the night skies (nunavutimages.com); Inuit culture has thrived for millenia in Nunavut; A map of the territory

Nunavut

Sanikiluaq

CANADA LOOKS FORWARD

Rendez-vous, the Canadian tourism industry’s annual travel trade event, showcased new attractions, experiences and activities, reports Steve Hartridge

Five minutes with...

Matt Malloy Manager, Travel Media and Travel Trade, Adventure Central Newfoundland

Q Where is your destination located?

We are in the middle of Newfoundland and Labrador, between the east and west coasts.To the east are popular locations like Bonavista and our capital, St. John’s, and to the west our second city Corner Brook and the popular Gros Morne National Park.

Q Why would UK travellers visit?

Our mantra is icebergs, whales and hiking trails. We are all about soft adventure. We don’t have many extreme experiences but for those looking to get outdoors and enjoy nature, we are a great option.

Q What are some of those outdoor highlights and experiences?

Terra Nova National Park is the most easterly National Park in Canada. It’s located along the Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) and is characterised by a rugged coastline with coves, inlets, and stargazing opportunities. There are 12 different hiking trails; you can sign up for an overnight on the Coastal Ridge Trail, staying in a yurt.

Q What else does the region offer?

We can arrange for kayaking tours, iceberg tours and whale tours – and you can also see puffins too. May and June are the best months for icebergs – we make iceberg beer, iceberg vodka, iceberg water and even iceberg soap! –and July and August for whales.

Q Is there a great experience that ﬁts in with the new Canada. naturally brand?

In Twillingate, at the top of our region, there is an operator called Wild Island Kitchen. They don’t have a building but rely on beach “boilups”. Crystal, the chef, runs an event on French Beach, featuring lobster. You might see a wonderful sunset and icebergs just off the coast.

New

brand makes something out of the ordinary

CANADA’S new marketing brand, Canada, naturally., highlights those aspects of everyday life that Canadians might take for granted but nevertheless feel extraordinary to guests. Short videos feature a series of gentle – and humorous – observational vignettes of “everyday Canadian moments”. For example, one with the caption “Amazing is Normal” features two friends cooking a BBQ against a backdrop of a sky coloured with the greens and reds of the Northern Lights. One character, looking up at the sky, says “What do you think?” The other replies: “It smells great’”.

The clip ends with the voiceover: “You never know when a Tuesday night dinner will become a Tuesday dinner and a show”. Supporting collateral includes imagery with thought-provoking captions. For example, Niagara Falls features, with the caption “It just came like this”; a small aircraft heading into the sky is entitled “Just taking off for the weekend”; a lone figure staring down from a clifftop has the words “It is not always this crowded”; and sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains has a tagline of “This came naturally”.

UK BOOSTS CANADA’S VISITOR NUMBERS

The UK was Canada’s second largest source of arrivals in 2024. While visitation will reach 94% of 2019 levels in 2025, full recovery is expected in 2026, with 875,400 visitors from the UK, spending around $1.9 billion, forecast.

back to Nova Scotia

THOSE interested in the history of Scottish emigration to Canada have a major attraction in Nova Scotia to visit.

A full-size replica of Ship Hector, a vessel that was part of the first significant migration of Scottish settlers to the province in 1773, has undergone a full restoration and will be relaunched this July as a dockside attraction in its home town of Pictou.

Plans are in place for the ship to offer sailing tours. In addition, the facility’s Interpretive Centre, which offers a comprehensive narrative of the Scottish settlers’ harrowing voyage and partnership with the Indigenous people of Pik’tuk, is also being modernised and will include interactive displays. Restored

Guests ready to fly over Niagara Falls

A MAJOR new attraction will open on August 29 inside Table Rock Centre, steps from the Horseshoe Falls in Ontario. The “flying theatre” facility, featuring a huge 180-degree domed screen, will invite guests to “soar above” the region’s most iconic landscapes and get close to Niagara Falls.

The latest in drone technology will take passengers on a 56-kilometre journey that celebrates Niagara’s geography, history and people.

STRONG CASE FOR NATIONAL PARKS

From June 20 to September 2, 2025, visitors can take advantage of free entry to a host of National Parks and National Historic sites as well as discounts on Via Rail. Also available on the Canada Strong Pass is a 25% discount on camping fees in the parks. There is no physical or virtual pass – just show up at participating sites

News in brief

AIR Greenland and Canadian North are partnering on a weekly direct flight between Iqaluit and Nuuk, Greenland, enhancing seasonal Arctic connectivity (June to October 2025).

NEW in the heart of Old Montréal, the Montréal Bungee Jump is Canada’s highest urban bungee jump at 210 feet. Evening jumps feature a custom lighting system and panoramic city views.

EVERWILD Nordic Spa will be Canmore’s first Nordic wellness centre when it opens this year. It will offer a premium hydrotherapy experience and an on-site restaurant.

NOW on display at the Royal Aviation Museum, next to Winnipeg’s international airport, is a Junkers F.13, one of just four remaining. The aircraft was the first all-metal transport aircraft.

MV NORTHUMBERLAND will join MV Confederation this summer sailing between Wood Islands, Prince Edward Island, and Caribou, Nova Scotia. The

TORONTO

With a host of world-class cultural and family-friendly attractions, Canada’s largest city serves up the perfect short-stay city break, says Steve Hartridge

lofty views and sharks

DAY ONE

Morning: Consider staying at the new Union Hotel, which opened in early 2025 occupying the building of the ex-Strathcona Hotel. The boutique property offers convenient access to downtown attractions.

Make the short walk to Union Station and cross the SkyWalk to the CN Tower. Take the elevator up 114 floors for wraparound views of the city and its islands. For an additional $11, you can head up another 33 floors to the top of the tower – the highest observation platform in the western hemisphere.

Next to the CN Tower is the familyoriented Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, with themed sections that include the marine life of the Great Lakes region; Dangerous Reef, with nurse sharks that swim overhead; and Dragons, with skinks, geckos, green iguanas and Cayman; and Stingray Pool.

Afternoon: Head to St. Lawrence Market, now open longer and on Sundays, for a freshly-brewed coffee. For lunch try Quik Sushi or Stack’d Deli Kitchen for its sandwiches, soups and salads. Then pick up some honey, maple syrup or horseradish mustard for gifts to take

home (who knew that 90% of the world’s mustard is grown in Canada?).

Evening: Head east along Front Street to The Esplanade and take the leafy pathway to The Distillery District. Once a derelict collection of Victorian Industrial buildings, this is now one of Canada’s premier arts, culture and entertainment destinations. It has over 40 boutique shops, artisanal stores, bakeries, pubs (with live music), and eateries. You might even seee models walking the cobblestones for a fashion show.

DAY TWO pizza and dinosaurs

Morning: Jump on the city’s sightseeing hop-on, hopoff bus or alternatively take a gentle stroll along King Street West to Spadina Avenue and up to Chinatown. Walk on to Kensington Market, in one of Toronto’s oldest neighbourhoods, and browse the flea market and one-off shops selling arts, jewellery, second-hand leathers and clothes. Pick up a bite at one of the many Latin American and Asian food outlets.

Afternoon: Or for a snack on the go stop at Fresca Pizza and Pasta on College Street. This tiny spot serves up delicious – and very large – pizza

slices for $5 (£2.95). There will likely be a queue outside, but it will be worth the wait. Then walk up to Bloor Street and visit two very different museums. The Bata Shoe Museum charts the history of footwear through the ages – everything from ancient Egyptian sandals to boots that have stepped onto the moon to the history of cowboy boots. Then drop into the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), where the stars are the dinosaurs in the Dawn of Life Gallery. The child-friendly Threatened Species gallery features creatures including a rhino, bison, giant panda, Arctic Fox and leatherhead turtle. Evening: Head to the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal and take the short boat ride to Ward’s Island. The Riviera is a casual restaurant with outdoor seating. Or spend the evening in one of Toronto’s many expansive sports pubs such as the Loose Goose or Scotland Yard.

Pictured: (clockwise from above) Toronto Skyline; Sunny’s Chinese Food in Kensington Market (Destination Toronoto); Royal Ontario Museum (Destination Toronoto); Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Open to seeing the full colours of Canada?

Take your Canadian adventure further

Air Transat offers direct year-round flights to Toronto from London Gatwick, Manchester and Glasgow, and Gatwick to Montreal through the summer. Seamless connections are available with its trusted partner, Porter Airlines. So, your clients can explore even more of Canada - from coast to coastwhile enjoying top-quality service aboard two friendly Canadian airlines.