With so much uncertainty about the pandemic still looming across the country, many people are settling on a staycation to avoid the hassle of international travel. Depending on where you go, staycations allow you to keep things simple while still enjoying a relaxing getaway. Whether you’re aiming to travel for business or for pleasure, the destinations below offer much in the way of adventure and relaxation.
Banff, Alberta
Banff is one of the most scenic National Parks in Canada, and it is famed for its rugged peaks and colourful teal-green lakes. Situated in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the town of Banff is an ideal place to make your base if you want to explore the surrounding areas. There is no shortage of activities as outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of everything from hiking to whitewater rafting to skiing, ice-climbing, and canoeing. Banff is open all year round for both summer and winter activities and is home to the impressive Banff Springs Hotel, a castle-like piece of architecture that’s surrounded by thick forest.
Montreal, Quebec
For a more urban feel, Montreal is Canada’s French cultural hub and is famous for hosting more than 100 festivals each year. This beautiful city has a European feel and is home to some unique attractions, including underground malls, spas build over the water, and paddle boarding on the St. Lawrence River. Those seeking a bit of history can also explore Old Montreal, where the buildings date back to the 18th century. Other notable points of interest include the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours, which provides amazing views of the historic city and port areas.
Whistler, British Columbia
Famed for its skiing and for being the main site of the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler is a beautiful spot just north of Vancouver. While the village is the main attraction, there is plenty to see and do in the mountains and surrounding areas. Whistler is also an ideal place for business travellers who may want to combine meetings with scenic, outdoor pursuits. This includes endless hiking trails, mountain biking, camping, and even helicopter rides (for the more adventurous). Whistler is also home to some premium hotels and spas if you want to pamper yourself while soaking in the scenery. If you are travelling for businesses and heading to Whistler, get in touch with experts who can help organize this for you so that you can get the best experience.
Avalon Peninsula, Newfoundland
While it’s perhaps lesser known than Whistler, Banff and Montreal, Newfoundland is a fantastic place to go if you’re looking for something a bit more remote. Situated on the east coast, Newfoundland provides endless stretches of natural beauty, and that includes the Avalon Peninsula. This place is famed for its epic sunrises and for an area known as the Irish Loop, where you can book guided tours of the historic Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve — a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’re after a quieter staycation near the ocean, this is an ideal choice.
Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park, Ontario
If you’re looking for a staycation near the urban city of Toronto, this provincial park is only a 2.5-hour drive away and offers a fantastic holiday for families. This picturesque area provides plenty of opportunities for camping, backcountry hiking, canoeing, fishing, boating, and cross-country skiing in the winter. Kawartha Highlands is the second-largest provincial park and it’s large enough that you can camp without too many crowds. The park is also open all year round, so you can even get away during the off-peak season.
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