Latest news with #CanadaStrongPass
Globe and Mail
5 days ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Tips and deals to help maximize your summer vacation dollars
Travel has become more expensive in recent years, with increased costs for airfare, hotels, and dining. However, don't let that deter you from exploring. Regardless of your destination, booking early and choosing off-season travel are effective strategies to save money. If you want to stretch your budget further, try these tactics that can help maximize vacation dollars. The insiders' guide: Where to go in Europe to avoid the crowds Although travelling within Canada can be notoriously expensive, some recent changes may help reduce your overall costs. Porter Airlines expanded its network and now flies across the country. Both Air Canada and WestJet have also increased their domestic routes as they've scaled back some flights to the United States. As a result, lower fares have been available. Additionally, the federal government recently announced a Canada Strong Pass, which allows those under the age of 18 to get free access to art galleries, national parks, museums and free seats on VIA Rail when travelling with their parents. While specific details are yet to be announced, this initiative could offer a valuable opportunity to cut costs. When planning your travel, make sure to check the local tourism website since they often have exclusive deals or passes. Stephanie Clovechok, chief executive officer of Discover Saskatoon, said her group's website helps direct those planning their itineraries to a range of services and deals. 'Our offers and packages page connects travellers directly with hotel promotions and seasonal experiences developed in partnership with our hospitality and tourism members,' she said. In B.C. there's Whistler's offer of up to 25 per cent off and a complimentary $100 activity voucher on stays of three nights or more, or up to 30 per cent off and a $200 voucher on stays of at least five nights. Those headed to Nova Scotia may be interested in the Halifax Experience Pass and the Nova Scotia Museum Pass. Both give you access to some top attractions at one low price. When you bundle your flights, hotel and airport transfers together as a vacation package, it's often significantly cheaper than booking everything separately. That said, major resorts such as Sandals and Grand Velas often have seasonal sales, so booking separately might make sense. Working with a travel agent can also be beneficial since many don't charge a fee and offer practical advice. 'For flexible travellers, we can help them find the best days to depart to maximize savings,' travel adviser Jennifer Zabloski said. 'Sometimes leaving the day before or after your desired date can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.' She points out that online photos and reviews of resorts are frequently misleading, so collaborating with an adviser who has visited the properties and knows the location well can ensure you're getting the best fit for your needs. Another sun destination with deals right now is Bermuda, where visitors can get up to 30 per cent off hotel stays, and 20 per cent off air and hotel with BermudAir Holidays. If you're headed to Europe for the first time, it will be tempting to visit major destinations such as Paris, Rome and London, however, those cities tend to be the most expensive. Instead, consider more budget-friendly destinations such as Portugal, Poland, Romania or Bulgaria, where costs could be considerably cheaper. When it comes to flights, choosing an airline that provides a stopover program, such as Icelandair, Emirates, Turkish Airlines and TAP Portugal, can be a cost-effective way to visit multiple countries. Stopover programs allow travellers to break up their journey – usually by at least 24 hours - and visit cities that are en route to their ultimate destination. Google Flights and are excellent websites for discovering the lowest prices and best routes. Many European cities, such as Amsterdam, Vienna and Berlin, offer a museum pass that can save you money, depending on how many attractions you plan to visit. 'Regardless of what loyalty points you collect, using them for long-haul travel often makes sense because it'll immediately reduce the cost of your flights or hotels – typically your largest expense,' said Sash Bhavsar, co-founder of a consultancy firm that frequent flyers hire to help them maximize their points. Don't overlook local hotel brands abroad, like Tokyu Stay and APA in Japan. They're often more affordable and offer a more authentic experience than large international chains, Mr. Bhavsar noted. If possible, opt for a regional or smaller international airport instead of the main one at your destination to save on airport landing fees and taxes that are often reflected in ticket prices. Secondary airport hubs charge airlines less, so if visiting Bangkok, Thailand, see if you can land at Don Mueang International (DMK) instead of Suvarnabhumi (BKK). And in Buenos Aires, for example, aim for Aeroparque Internacional Jorge Newbery (AEP) rather than Ezeiza (EZE). Many seasoned cruisers turn to as a starting point for trip research. While it may not be the most user-friendly website, its filtering system is arguably the best because it allows travellers to browse cruise deals by departure date, ports, cruise lines and trip duration. Once you've found what you're looking for, contact the cruise line and book directly for the best price. 'Most cruise lines offer seasonal promotions, including discounted fares, onboard credits and special deals like free passage for third and fourth guests,' Lisa Huizing, a vacation consultant with Expedia Cruises, said. Planning ahead and prepaying for add-ons such as beverage packages, Wi-Fi, airport transfers, excursions and gratuities can also help, Huizing added. No one wants an unexpected charge at the end of their voyage, so securing these extras in advance can ensure a more enjoyable experience. When booking, ask about all-inclusive packages that bundle these extras at a reduced price. Barry Choi is a personal finance and travel expert. He was previously affiliated with Air Canada and WestJet, but currently has no relationship with any of the brands mentioned.
National Observer
16-05-2025
- Politics
- National Observer
Canadian campers go 'elbows up' this summer amid US trade war
Some outdoorsy Canadians are planning to build their tents with elbows up this summer as the season unofficially kicks off this long weekend. Sally Turner says she and her husband plan to do their camping, canoeing and biking this year in Canadian national parks, including at Jasper National Park this weekend, because of the US trade war and US President Donald Trump 's calls to make Canada a 51st state. "I have, in the past, camped in the United States, but that's not going to happen in the near future," Turner said while shopping for camping gear in Edmonton. "Most of the people I know are very much choosing to camp in Canada. Elbows up." Albertan Travis Pegg, however, said he's indifferent to the trade war. "The price of fuel and the cost of getting to the States would have more influence on whether I camp there or not, not the tariff war," said Pegg, a resident of Wainwright, a town southeast of Edmonton. "I don't worry about anything I can't do anything about. It just causes stress. I just try to survive." Summer plans for some children have also been affected by the tariff war, says the head of the Canadian Camping Association, which accredits and oversees youth summer camps across the country. Executive director Matt Wilfrid says fewer children are being enrolled in summer camps this year due to the economic uncertainty Trump's tariffs have created. Wilfrid said more parents have been asking about refund policies and payment plans at their camps. He said an increasing number of camps are struggling with budgets for the summer as the cost of food, activities and staffing has become unpredictable. "Running a summer camp is akin to planning a wedding for thousands of people who don't know each other," Wilfrid said. During his election campaign, Prime Minister Mark Carney was among the Canadians calling for people to celebrate the country after Trump's threats by going to its national parks. He pledged to create a "Canada Strong Pass" that would make access to national parks free for the summer. 'Whether it's trips to national parks and historic sites, spending the day at a national art gallery or museum, or hiking Canadian trails, my new government will help the next generation discover all Canada has to offer this summer," he said. "We are a proud country – and united, we will strengthen our Canadian identity in the face of this crisis." Carney's office did not respond to questions about the status of that pledge. Back on the Prairies, Alberta Parks says it has seen around a 25 per cent increase in bookings through its camping reservation system for both March and April compared to the previous year. But Alexandru Cioban, press secretary for Forestry Minister Todd Loewen, has said it's difficult to say whether the increase is due to the tariff war. Ontario Parks says it's on track to have very similar booking numbers as recent years -- roughly 12 million. "I do not have any live stats readily available in terms of US visitors, but (I) can say that well over 90 per cent of our visitors come from within Ontario," spokesman Dave Hunt said in an email. Parks Canada said demand for camping reservations continues to be strong this summer. It says 17 per cent of parks visitors came from the United States in 2023-24, and 16 per cent came from overseas. "The steady interest highlights the enduring appeal of the natural heritage in Canada and the importance of protecting these sites for future generations," it said in an email. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 16, 2025.
Yahoo
15-04-2025
- Yahoo
'Canada Strong' pass aims to make sightseeing cheaper for Canadians
Summer just got a whole lot easier on the wallet for Canadian families with the launch of the Canada Strong Pass. It's designed to help kids and young families discover the best of Canada-for free. Under the plan, children and youth under 18 will get free admission to national parks, galleries and museums and free VIA Rail tickets when travelling with a parent, while 18 to 24-year-olds will see steep discounts. Camping at National Parks will be more affordable with fees reduced. Introducing, the Canada Strong Pass. — Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) April 12, 2025 The Federal Government wants Canadians to spend their money at home. From B.C. to Newfoundland, Yukon to southern Ontario, there is no shortage of wilderness and weather to explore in the Great White North. The Canada Strong Pass will be available starting in June, with the hope that provincial parks will also jump on board. Click here to view the video
