5 best Canadian travel swaps for U.S. destinations — Canada Day, summer vacations and more
"It's always been a good time to travel domestically, but there are a couple of reasons to plan a summer trip in Canada this year,' says David Webb, editor at Explore Magazine. 'The new Canada Strong Pass is removing entry fees to national parks and historic sites and offering discounts on camping. Plus exploring Canada rather than crossing the border means your dollar will go a lot further.'
If you're looking for inspiration, read on for Canadian swaps for popular U.S. destinations.
California's Big Sur may be known for its rugged terrain and ocean views, but Tofino, B.C. — 'Canada's no. 1 one surf capital' — boasts spectacular coastline and island vibes. You can stroll along white sandy beaches, hike through misty rainforest and watch stunning sunsets at Long Beach. Delve into deep Indigenous heritage and embrace the opportunity to catch a glimpse at some of the local wildlife, like grey whales, sea otters and even sea wolves — which are unique to the Pacific Northwest.
Las Vegas may be glitz, bright lights and 24-hour nightlife energy, but Montreal, Que. blends European charm and a French flare with fabulous live music and a nightlife scene. This historic city, built in 1642, is known for its cobblestone charm, historic architecture and artistic culture. Montreal also hosts an array of festivals throughout the year, like Osheaga, one of Canada's largest music festivals, which is held in early August. Don't forget to indulge in poutine, and enjoy a world-famous Montreal bagel.
Maine has lighthouses, fresh seafood and the Atlantic coast — but Nova Scotia offers all this and more right here in Canada. Where else can you see the iconic Peggy's Cove Lighthouse, the most photographed spot in Canada, on the edge of the rugged Atlantic Ocean? You can also enjoy a lively music scene with a strong Celtic heritage — get ready to stomp your feet to the sound of the fiddle. If it's seafood you are after, there's no shortage. Dine on fresh lobster rolls, or pick your own lobster from pot to plate. Be sure to head to Halifax, and hop on the short ferry ride — the oldest saltwater ferry service in North America — across the harbour to downtown Dartmouth.
Colorado might be known for its mountainous scenery, however Canada's Rocky Mountains offer majestic wilderness and awe-inspiring vistas. It's the perfect road trip for anyone looking for a great adventure in the midst of truly dramatic nature. Be sure to take a snap shot at Lake Louise, famed for its turquoise water, and don't forget a stop at glacier-fed Peyto Lake. The Canadian Rockies are also home to an array of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled. From grizzly bears to elk, which are often spotted strolling around the town of Banff, as well as bighorn sheep, it's bound to be an epic trip.
If the appeal of Chicago's big city buzz and lake-front location is what you are after, you'll feel right at home in Toronto. Canada's largest city is a cosmopolitan hub and a multicultural metropolis. Explore the revitalized waterfront with views of the CN Tower. Enjoy world class entertainment and visit the many museums like the ROM, home to dinosaurs and ancient relics. If it's food you are after, you won't find a better selection of global flavours than here. One of the best ways to see the city is on foot, where you can get a sense of the diverse neighbourhoods, from Little Italy (for a tasty bite), to Kensington Market, known for its vintage finds and street art. It borders the city's Chinatown neighbourhood, which was established in the late 1800s. Toronto is truly a vibrant mix of food and culture.
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Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
Toronto is 'a value destination,' prof says, as city approaches pre-pandemic tourism levels
Toronto is getting closer to pre-pandemic levels of tourists in the city, which Destination Toronto says is thanks in part to an increase in European travellers. "The city is doing well," said Kathy Motton, senior manager of corporate communications at Destination Toronto. "There's a lot of interest from Canadians wanting to travel in Canada and stay in their country," she said. "We are seeing that the U.S. is down, not surprisingly, but in turn the international market is up." Toronto welcomed nine million visitors in 2024, according to Destination Toronto figures, just 600,000 shy of the number of visitors it welcomed in 2019 pre-pandemic. Canadians led the way, with American visitors coming second at 1.6 million. However, Motton says visits dropped four per cent year over year in the first quarter of 2025, owing to "ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainty." While she says "it's too early for a full 2025 project," Motton also says the summer is helping Toronto make up for lower numbers earlier in the visitors from U.K., Germany Visitors from the United Kingdom and Germany were both up in June by six per cent each, year over year, Motton says, noting it may be a result of Europeans looking for new places to travel. Toronto is an attractive destination for Europeans due to cost, says Wayne Smith, a tourism professor at Toronto Metropolitan University. "The euro versus Canadian dollar is doing very well, so Toronto actually looks like a value destination," said Smith. "They're paying close to $200 a night. And when you compare to European prices, it actually becomes a value type destination for them." Smith says what's happening in the U.S. is also probably playing a role in bringing European travellers to Toronto. "Canada has been in the news a lot so it becomes more top of mind," he said. "Because of the U.S. situation and with visas and fears about ICE – you add in some of the economic component to it, all of a sudden Canada looks like a much more attractive destination versus the U.S." Toronto is also attractive to Europeans because it's a closer destination than places like Calgary or Vancouver, Smith says. Destination Toronto opened new offices in the U.K. and Germany in June in an effort to attract more European tourists to the city. Motton says she expects numbers will grow from those countries, especially as we get close to the FIFA 2026 World Cup, which Toronto is co-hosting. "Once we hear which countries are going to be playing here, I think we're going to see a lot of interest from the various different countries that are playing here in the city," she said. Meanwhile, Henry Greisman, a manager at Toonie Tours, one of Toronto's walking tour operators, says he's seeing an increase in visitors from South America. The company, which offers Spanish tours, has had to add additional tours to meet demand, he says. "We would take on average say 15, maybe 18 passengers on a tour and they go on a three hour tour in downtown Toronto. This year we are seeing upwards of 25 and our maximum is 30 guests on a tour," Greisman said. Americans remain key to tourism recovery: experts Still, Greisman says he's noticed a decline in U.S. visitors so far this year — a decline both Smith and Motton say is important to turn around. "We're going to continue to market to the Americans," Motton said, noting U.S. visitors to Toronto are down nine per cent since 2024. Their return is crucial to a true tourism recovery, Smith says. "When you're looking at a three-to-one ratio, three U.S. tourists to every international tourist, which is sort of our traditional realm, what you're finding is that would be an awfully large market to give up entirely," he said.
Yahoo
3 hours ago
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11 things you should never travel without if you're over 50, according to a flight attendant
Travelling for the August long weekend? From comfy shoes to a water bottle, these travel essentials are flight attendant-approved. Got an August long weekend trip or summer vacation planned? If you're flying, there are certain travel essentials you'll want to have on hand for a comfortable experience. It's always good to be prepared — and who has more experience with what to pack than someone who spends thousands of hours a year in the sky? Pam Huynh is a flight attendant with Air Canada, with nine years of experience in the travel industry. We asked Huynh for her list of packing essentials, with special attention to items people over the age of 50 should always have on hand when flying, whether in their carry-on or checked luggage. Keep scrolling to see what she recommends, and to shop her picks. Comfortable shoes Comfortable footwear is a must when travelling, especially if you're someone who likes to take their shoes off on the plane. The best option? Slip-ons. 'Because people don't have a lot of legroom, I find they try to bend over to tie their shoes,' Huynh says. 'Slip-on shoes are so much easier.' She also adds that depending on your destination and what airport(s) you go through, you might have to remove your shoes for security. That makes slip-ons and even smarter choice. If you're someone who requires a bit more support and cushioning, Huynh recommends Sketchers for their arch support. Pillows Huynh says she would "definitely" recommend bringing along a neck pillow when flying, especially for those who struggle with neck or back pain — or if you just find flights bother your body. 'If you're trying to save space, the blow-up ones are great, but I prefer the comfy ones that you can button around your luggage," she says. 'Especially if you're in the middle of a three seater — you need the extra support." Huynh also recommends that travellers bring other things to help with comfort, such as a back pillow or seat cushion, especially for longer flights. 'People keep saying that the airplane seat cushions have gotten thinner and thinner, the materials less comfy,' she says. 'You want to be as comfortable as you are in your home.' Something to keep you warm Temperatures can fluctuate on planes, which can be particularly uncomfortable for travellers who may be more sensitive to temperature changes. With this in mind, Huynh recommends travelling with something versatile you can cozy up in, such as a blanket scarf. 'if you don't want to bring a blanket, I see a lot of people bringing blanket scarves,' she says. 'I think it's a really good idea.' Another option she recommends? A lightweight cardigan. Read more travel articles on : I've flown to 5 continents — 6 travel essentials I always pack in my carry-on suitcase Travelling for the August long weekend? 7 best foods to bring on a plane — and the ones you should avoid, according to a dietitian I've flown to 5 continents — 6 travel essentials I always pack in my carry-on suitcase 'It doesn't matter if you're going to a hot destination, 100 per cent you want a sweater for the plane,' she says, noting that the cabin can get quite cold. Handheld fan Speaking of fluctuating temperatures, if you're someone who tends to overheat — or if you're just travelling somewhere hot — a pocket-sized fan is a great essential to have on hand. 'I like a handheld fan, those rechargeable ones,' says Huynh. 'I carry those around too.' She also says that most planes now have a compatible charger, so you can make sure you don't run out of juice. Pill case It's a good idea to bring along painkillers and other basic travel medication with you, especially if you're someone who has chronic pain. Whether you're travelling with Advil and Tums, or you're bringing along prescription medication, Huynh says a pill case can be very handy to have. 'You definitely want to bring your pills in your carry on, and those pill cases are very handy,' she says. Just make sure you have (or know) the instructions for how to take any medication you're bringing along with you. She also recommends labelling the pills - nwhich can also be helpful when going through security. Earbuds While earphones for a flight may be a given, Huynh specifically recommends travelling with a pair that has an audio jack, which she says many travellers often forget about. 'A lot of people either only have AirPods or bluetooth headphones with USB-C output,' she says. 'Not all airplanes have that. So if you want to watch movies or listen to music on the screen in front of your chair, you need earphones with an audio jack.' Compression socks Leg swelling, caused by fluid buildup, is common for older adults and can be exacerbated by sitting too long. While getting up and moving around can help, that's not always doable on a plane. You can also consider compression socks or stockings, which can help to improve blood flow and decrease pain and swelling in the legs. "A lot of people don't realize how much they're needed," says Huynh. "They're worth it." "If you're going on a flight for more than five hours, I would totally recommend it," she says. Water bottle It might seem obvious, but it's an important one. As adults age, drinking enough water is crucial — according to the U.S. National Council On Aging, dehydration is common among older adults. A reusable water bottle, then, is "100 per cent" a must-have when travelling says Huynh. Choosing a plastic version over a stainless steel bottle can also be easier for transporting, as it will be a lot lighter when full. "If you're bringing a water bottle, bring it empty and you can always refill it at the airport," she notes. Foldable backpack Huynh says she likes to bring along a foldable backpack for additional storage when she travels — which can be especially useful if you find it difficult to carry a single heavy bag. Huynh recommnds "one of those 20 litre-30 litre backpacks that folds into a bag," she says. "It packs up really small, in case I need to bring it anywhere. It's nice that it's compact." A foldable backpack can be a great item to have on hand if you find yourself needing some extra space in your luggage. It's also handy for using as you travel around in your destination. Sunscreen Sun protection is important at any age, but you'll definitely want to make sure you have some when you're 35,000 feet up in the air and sitting in a window seat. "Most people going on vacation, they're most likely not going anywhere cold," says Huynh. "Even then, the sun's always shining." She notes that if you are bringing sunscreen with you, make sure it fits within the limits of allowed liquids in your carry on luggage, or you'll have to keep it in your checked bag.
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
Travelling for the August long weekend? 7 best foods to bring on a plane — and the ones you should avoid, according to a dietitian
Airport food can be expensive. An expert shares the best snacks Canadians can bring through airport security ahead of their August long weekend travel. It's almost August long weekend, and many Canadians are packing their bags and jetting off for a summer vacation. Holidays are meant to be relaxing, but air travel can come with a set of headaches. Rushing to the airport, navigating crowds and possibly delayed flights can make airports a stressful place. However, once you've found your gate, it's time to relax and kick back with a good book and some tasty snacks. However, purchasing overpriced airport food is often the last thing you want to do. Don't leave your snacking options up to the vendors: Pack your own airport-friendly travel snacks. Obviously, you can't just take any snack with you through security. That's why it's important to pack snacks that are approved by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) — and those that will also keep you feeling full throughout the flight. What foods will CATSA let through Canadian airport security? First off, make sure your snacks comply with airport security rules. According to the CATSA website, non-solid foods are considered part of your 'liquids, aerosols and gels.' That means they're subject to the same rules as your shampoo or toothpaste. Food is not exempted from restrictions on liquids. If you plan on packing non-solid foods in your carry-on like jam, pudding, yogurt, peanut butter, chocolate spread or cheese spread, they must be 100 ml or less, and all containers must fit in one clear, resealable plastic bag no larger than one litre in capacity. Freezing the food will not skirt these rules. According to CATSA, the food must be solid at room temperature. For those who prefer not to store peanut butter or yogurt next to their perfume, solid food items may be a better option. CATSA rules say sandwiches, apples, granola bars, cheese cubes, vegetables, bread, solid candies, chocolate bars, cookies, chips and muffins, among many other solid food items, are allowed in your carry-on and checked baggage when travelling within Canada. However, keep in mind if your destination is outside of Canada, any food not consumed will be subject to the regulations of the country you are visiting. With these security measures in mind, Yahoo Canada spoke to Shirley Khuong, a registered dietitian with JM Nutrition, about which snacks to take aboard. Here's what she recommended. Whole grain wraps with brie and apple 'Try to look for something that has a balance of enough fibre, a vegetable component and, if it's bread, does it have a whole wheat, whole grain component to it,' Khuong said. 'The fibre will really slow down your digestion and help you feel more full, and you can look for a fruit component as well.' A whole wheat wrap rolled up with brie and apple could be a good example of a snack that hits those marks. Cut up veggies 'Look for veggies that are easier to pack and more dry. So, easy-slice foods that aren't as watery like celery, carrots, red peppers and cucumbers could be a good choice,' she said. 'Those are all really good for hydration as well.' If you have room in your carry-on liquids bag, you can bring aboard small packages of hummus, guacamole or nut butter. Custom trail mix Trail mix is a hiking staple for good reason, it's easily packable, lasts a long time and keeps you feeling full. Khuong suggested making your own mix of nuts and dried fruit at home. For example, mix unsalted nuts, dried fruits and perhaps a little bit of chocolate for added sweetness. Homemade muffins Small baked goods, like homemade muffins, can be made ahead of time, and the recipes can be optimized for air travel. 'You could add protein powder in it, or cottage cheese,' she said. 'Muffins can last while you're travelling, they don't have much of a scent and they're easy to carry around.' Plus, they're balanced thanks to a mix of carbohydrates, protein and fibre. Fresh, whole fruit 'Those are always so easy to carry, especially apples, pears or bananas, because they're a whole piece and you can just throw them out when you're done,' she said. If you have room for a small box of berries, Khuong recommended this as they can boost hydration levels. DIY Bento box 'This one is kind of hit or miss for some people,' Khuong said, 'but if you packed a boiled egg, some nuts, and either vegetable sticks or crackers, that's an easy, balanced snack.' The egg provides protein, while the nuts add some healthy fats and protein, and the veggies provide healthy carbs. Simple charcuterie box Meat sticks are a good source of protein, but Khuong suggested travellers avoid the more processed options and those high in sodium. Another idea is to swap pepperoni sticks for chicken slices, which can be lower in unhealthy fats, and pack some pre-packaged cheese sticks. Empty water bottle It's not a snack per say, but staying hydrated while travelling is essential. Purchasing bottles of water at the airport gates can be pricey, not to mention environmentally unfriendly. Instead, pack your own (empty) reusable water bottle and fill up at a water fountain after security. 'You can just fill up and it's a lot more convenient for you without having to spend that extra little bit of money on your trip that you might want to save for something else,' she said. Foods to avoid during a flight Certain foods can make you feel uncomfortable onboard an airplane. For example, if beans or chickpeas naturally tend to leave you feeling bloated or gassy, Khuong said it might be a good idea to avoid them on travel days. Consider skipping raw cruciferous vegetables, too, like cauliflower or broccoli, in favour of something that will keep you feeling fuller for longer. 'Choose snacks that are higher in protein and lower in saturated fats,' Khuong said. 'For a snack, aim for five to 10 grams of protein per serving, and two grams of fibre or more per serving.' You might want to avoid overly salty foods as well. Salty chips and processed foods, for example, may leave you feeling dehydrated. 'If you're concerned about how often you're going to the washroom, avoid salty foods, which can make you more thirsty,' Khuong said.
