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Canada Travel Blog

Discover Canada Through Our Stories

At Canada by Design, our vacations are inspired by our own adventures, be it heli-hiking in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, taking the train through a winter wonderland, driving along the rugged east coast or searching for polar bears on Manitoba's tundra. Our team has traveled by rail, car and coach from coast to coast to ensure every detail of our trips are up to our standards, and to pick up expert tips and recommendations to pass on to you, our travelers. So go ahead, settle in and dive into one of our stories. It might just spark an idea or inspire you to plan your next trip.

Where to See the Northern Lights: 3 Magical Destinations

Head to the beautiful Arctic North to see the northern lights dance across the winter night in one of our northern lights tours in Canada and Alaska.

three-unforgettable-snow-train-journeys-through-canada

Three Unforgettable Snow Train Journeys Through Canada

Discover the magic of Canada's winter by rail! Explore snow-covered landscapes and iconic destinations with our top Canadian snow train trips for 2024/25.

fall-in-vancouver-must-do-autumn-adventures

Fall in Vancouver: Must-Do Autumn Adventures

Explore fall’s vibrant beauty in Vancouver with exclusive June-October offers. Not ready for 2024? Secure your 2025 trip at 2024 prices!

churchill-autumn-wildlife-spectacle-polar-bears-belugas-and-auroras

Churchill‘s Autumn Wildlife Spectacle: Polar Bears, Belugas, and Auroras

Witness polar bears, beluga whales, and Northern Lights in Churchill, Manitoba—an autumn adventure offering unparalleled Arctic wildlife and breathtaking beauty.

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A Road Trip for Your Bucket List

Embark on an unforgettable Atlantic Canada road trip! Book your 2025 adventure at 2024 prices and explore Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, PEI, and New Brunswick.

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An Unforgettable Autumn Adventure in Jasper

Experience Jasper's autumn magic! Discover vibrant fall foliage, mild weather, and fewer crowds in the Canadian Rockies. Enjoy exclusive deals for June-October, or book 2025 now at 2024 prices!

discover-the-magic-of-canmore-and-kananaskis

Discover the Magic of Canmore and Kananaskis

Explore stunning landscapes, vibrant arts, and thrilling outdoor adventures. Book now for exclusive June-Oct offers or 2025 at 2024 prices!

from-polar-bears-to-northern-lights

From Polar Bears to Northern Lights: 7 Compelling Reasons to Visit Churchill, Manitoba

Discover the allure of Churchill, Manitoba, the Polar Bear Capital of the World. Encounter majestic polar bears, playful beluga whales, and mesmerizing Northern Lights.

Exploring the Heart of Alberta From Cities to Mountains

Embark on a Rockies adventure starting or ending in vibrant Edmonton or Calgary for an unforgettable journey blending urban excitement with natural beauty.

vancouver-cherry-blossoms-and-seasonal-delights

Vancouver's Cherry Blossoms and Seasonal Delights

Experience Vancouver‘s Cherry Blossom Festival and Spring Splendor! Plan your Vancouver vacation package now for an unforgettable spring escape filled with pink hues, snow-capped mountains, and seasonal delights.

discovering-jasper-alberta-this-summer

Discovering Jasper, Alberta this Summer

Discover the allure of Jasper, Alberta with our exclusive packages! Experience the Canadian Rockies by rail or self-drive and save big with our limited-time offer. Book now!

embrace-the-splendor-of-the-canadian-rockies

Embrace the Splendor of the Canadian Rockies

Embrace the Splendor of the Canadian Rockies this summer. Explore vibrant landscapes, cultural delights, and natural wonders in Alberta's enchanting wildlife.

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Unforgettable Canadian Rockies Train Tours for 2024

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Canadian Rockies with our iconic Rocky Mountaineer train tours. Book now and enjoy up to $3,000 in savings per couple!

elevate-your-canadian-rockies-winter-experience

Elevate Your Canadian Rockies Winter Experience

Winter in the Canadian Rockies is nothing short of magical, and we're here to make it an experience you'll treasure forever. Between the enchanting destinations of Jasper, Banff & Lake Louise, you'll find yourself in a true winter wonderland.

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Your Winter Journey in Canmore and Kananaskis

Discover winter wonders in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. From thrilling outdoor adventures to luxurious stays and diverse culinary delights, Canmore and Kananaskis beckon.

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Canada's Most Enchanting Christmas Markets

Discover enchanting Christmas markets across Canada – from Toronto's European-inspired magic to Vancouver's waterfront elegance. Immerse in holiday joy with our curated packages!

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Celebrate Christmas in Canada's Enchanting Destinations!

The magic of a Canadian Christmas awaits you this holiday season. From the glittering ice castles of Banff to the snow-dusted peaks of the Canadian Rockies, Canada offers enchanting winter wonderlands perfect for creating cherished memories.

whistler-winter-vacations

5 Reasons to Experience Whistler in the Wintertime

Dive into an unforgettable winter adventure with our exclusive 2023/24 Whistler Stay and Ski Packages! Visit Whistler's Winter Wonderland and enjoy Canada's premier ski resorts & activities.

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The Best Winter Train Trips in Canada

Traveling aboard VIA Rail into a sparkling wonderland of ice and snow, there really is nothing quite like these 4 winter train vacations in Canada.

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Unforgettable Journey on the Snow Train to the Canadian Rockies

Embark on an unforgettable Snow Train journey through Canada's winter wonderland. Cozy cabins, scenic vistas, and gourmet dining await.

Vancouver Island’s Storm Season

Your Guide to Vancouver Island’s Famous Storm Season

From roaring waves to cozy fireside moments, embrace the awe-inspiring power of Vancouver Island's Storm Season with Canada By Design.

churchill-polar-bear-tours

The Rise of Polar Bear Safaris; A Bucket-List Summer Adventure

Canada By Design's carefully crafted packages allow you to immerse yourself in the Arctic wilderness, encounter captivating wildlife, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Harbour Air Seaplane in Vancouver, British Columbia

21 Amazing Things to Do in Vancouver, British Columbia

From iconic experiences like Granville Island and Stanley Park to lesser-known attractions, here are all the best things to do in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Calgary_Stampede_Parade

The Ultimate Calgary Stampede Experience

Are you ready for the ultimate Stampede experience? Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Stampede-goer, there's always something new and exciting to experience and we happen to have itineraries that include your tickets.

Glass-domed viewing car on VIA Rail

6 Canadian Train Trips to Book for a Summer Vacation

Embrace the beauty of a Canadian adventure with Canada's leading rail specialist and save up to $3,000 per couple on your 2024 Canadian Rail Vacations (Limited Time Offer).

Newfoundland_and_Labrador_Iceberg

The Best of Atlantic Canada

With over 20 years of expertise and established partnerships, we guarantee quality experiences at competitive rates, covering the best of Canada from coast to coast. Explore our Atlantic Canada trip ideas and contact us for your free custom quote.

The Maligne Lake  Japer National Park

The Top 10 Reasons to Visit Alberta Canada

Discover the top 10 reasons to visit Alberta, Canada's best-kept secret - home to majestic mountains, prairies, desert badlands, vast forests, glaciers and lakes.

The Banff Gondola in the Canadian Rocky Mountains

How to Plan a Winter Wonderland Rail Trip Through the Rockies

With over 22 years of experience planning customized dream trips to the Canadian Rocky Mountains, will make your trip even more exceptional than you imagined.

The Banff Gondola in the Canadian Rocky Mountains

15 Must-Do Experiences in the Canadian Rocky Mountains

Most of our itineraries in the Canadian Rocky Mountains offer your choice of included tours. Here we outline what many of those are, plus add an extra few.

Quebec City, Quebec

How to Plan a Trip to Eastern Canada

Discover how to plan a trip to Eastern Canada, from the nation's capital city of Ottawa and metropolitan Toronto to the historic Quebec City and vibrant Montreal.

Nk’MIP Desert Cultural Centre, Osoyoos

5 Authentic Cultural Experiences on a Road Trip in British Columbia

Discover authentic cultural experiences in British Columbia. At Canada by Design, our vacations are inspired by our own adventures and are customizable to ensure every detail is covered so you can relax and enjoy the drive.

Summer Churchill Polar Bear Tours

What to Expect on Summer Churchill Polar Bear Tours

Summer polar bear tours in Churchill are filled with incredible Canadian wildlife, remote wilderness, authentic activities and local culture.

A Yukon road trip bear sighting

Why the Yukon Road Trip Needs to Be on Your Bucket List

With thousands of miles of roads, long summer days, friendly locals and scenic vistas, the Yukon road trip has long been a bucket list adventure for many.

Hopewell Rocks at Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick

All your Questions about Atlantic Canada, Answered

When travelers first find themselves intrigued by Atlantic Canada, they have a lot of questions. Luckily, we're experts in it all. Here are all your questions, answered.

A couple hiking outside the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Alberta

How to Plan the Perfect Summer Trip to Alberta

Discover how to plan the perfect summer trip to Alberta in three easy steps. See the Rockies, alpine towns, national parks and Calgary Stampede.

A mother polar bear and her cub in Churchill, Manitoba

A Winter Guide to Polar Bear Tours in Canada

With Canada home to 60 percent of the world’s polar bear population, there's simply nowhere better to go for polar bear viewing tours. Discover our top itineraries.

VIA Rail in the Canadian Rockies in winter

4 Winter Train Vacations in Canada for a Magical Adventure

Traveling aboard VIA Rail into a sparkling wonderland of ice and snow, there really is nothing quite like these 4 winter train vacations in Canada.

A Couple Exploring Edmonton, Alberta in Winter

72 Hours of Winter in Edmonton

The largest northernmost metropolis and also the capital city of Alberta, there's a lot more to Edmonton than first meets the eye, especially in winter. Discover the best activities, festivals, restaurants and more!

A Couple Walking through Downtown Calgary in Winter

72 Hours of Winter in Calgary

When we think about planning a trip to Calgary, Alberta, we oftentimes think of summer. What most don't know, however, is that winter offers its own exceptional experiences.

Friends at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

The Travel Expert's Guide to Jasper, Alberta

A small alpine town situated within the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, it's important to understand what separates Jasper from the rest (and why you absolutely have to visit).

A couple walking in Banff, Alberta in winter

The Travel Expert's Guide to Banff and Lake Louise

For over 21 years our Travel Designers have been visiting and planning dream trips in Banff and Lake Louise. Here we answer your frequently asked questions for the region.

Ice Skating at Lake Louise, Alberta in Winter

Winter in Alberta: The Ultimate Trip-Planning Guide

With over 21 years of experience planning winter vacations in Canada, we've created our own Alberta trip-planning guide complete with recommended itineraries.

Western Canada Road Trip

The Best Summer Road Trips in Western Canada

With travel to Canada from the US once again an option, a road trip is a great way to safely see new sights. Whether it's to the Canadian Rockies, Vancouver Island or the Yukon, our team will ensure it all goes smoothly.

Very Canada Trips

7 Very Canadian Trips for the Ultimate Summer Adventure

If you're seeking a very Canadian trip with polar bears, golden wheat fields, great beer and authentic Canadian accents, here we highlight our ultimate summer adventures in Churchill, Saskatoon and Atlantic Canada.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Unique Things to Do in Vancouver, BC and Beyond

Whether it's a floatplane journey to Bowen Island to enjoy a gourmet private picnic or a boat tour to watch seals and spectacular sunsets, we've got the best things to do in Vancouver, BC and beyond.

A man standing at the peak of the Rocky Mountains

Rocky Mountain Vacations to Escape to Post-Pandemic

As we step out of a global pandemic and into what we hope will be a promising future for travel, we couldn’t think of anything more ideal than a Rocky Mountain vacation in Alberta.

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Our Favorite Canadian Rockies Train Trips

As we wind down what has been an unprecedented year, we begin to strategize: What are the best Canadian train trips to book for 2023? The answer, as always, lays in the uniqueness of the individual.

The Rocky Mountaineer train in the Canadian Rocky Mountains

6 Classic Rail Vacations in Canada

Discover 6 classic rail vacations in Canada onboard both VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer as we take you through the Rocky Mountains, along the East Coast and over to the Maritimes.

Dining on the beach in Nova Scotia

15 Must-Do Experiences in Atlantic Canada

Intriguing and alluring, Atlantic Canada calls travelers who seek authentic experiences in spectacular landscapes. Here we share the 15 must-do experiences in Atlantic Canada.

Clayoquot Wilderness Resort

The Top 20 Bucketlist Trips in Canada

Whether it's dancing under the northern lights, bonding with grizzly bears in temperate rainforest or road tripping along the rugged coast of the Atlantic, we all have a list of dream bucketlist trips in Canada.

12 Festive Things to Do in Vancouver, Tried & Tested by Local Experts

12 Festive Things to Do in Vancouver, Tried & Tested by Local Experts

Whether it's a Whistler ski trip, a winter train journey to the Rockies or a northern lights adventure that brings you to the city, extend your stay with these 12 festive things to do in Vancouver.

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge

VIDEO: Unique Canadian Wilderness Resorts by Canada Travel Experts

When you picture a once-in-a-lifetime vacation in Canada, what do you see? For our team of Canada travel experts, unique Canadian wilderness resorts are inarguably part of the picture.

Vancouver Skyline in Winter

72 Hours of Winter in Vancouver

The theory that Canada completely freezes over in the winter is a myth. Uncover what makes Vancouver the ultimate winter destination and learn what to do, where to stay, what to eat and where to go, all curated by Canada travel experts.

Rocky Mountains Heli-Hiking with CMH

Heli-Hiking in the Canadian Rockies: Tips by Canada Travel Experts

From soaring over glaciers to strolling near spires, our heli-hiking trip in the Canadian Rockies wow-ed us with stunning landscapes, spoiled us with attentive service, and inspired us to share the adventure with other travelers.

A couple at the Banff Springs Hotel in Alberta, Canada

6 Magical Winter Vacations in Canada for Making Memories Together

Looking for the best winter vacations in Canada? As Canada Travel Experts we're well-versed in everything the season has to offer, and here we'll outline the best winter vacations for making memories together.

The Rocky Mountains in Alberta

Canada Train Tours, Self-Drives & Lodges: 3 Ways to Reconnect with What Really Matters

This summer, we're calling on you to reconnect with what really matters by spending time with those you care about. Our legendary train tours, must-do Canadian road trips and once-in-a-lifetime wilderness lodges are just the ticket.

Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

How to Plan a Trip to Atlantic Canada

The East Coast of Canada has undeniable appeal, yet understanding where to start, how to get around, where to stay and what to do requires extensive research unless you have someone to turn to for expert insight. Enter Canada by Design.

Canada By Design team in Banff, Alberta

Video: Canada Travel Experts Reveal our Most Popular Winter Trip

Winter travel in Canada has been on the rise, and it isn't hard to see why. With crackling fires, cozy lodges, sparkling snow and frozen waterfalls, it's your opportunity to see this magical season at its best – and we've got it all on video.

Ice Skating on Lake Louise, Alberta, in Winter

The Way to Winter in Alberta: 3 Secrets to the Perfect Trip

If the wintery air has been whispering to you of a magical place abroad, allow us to let you in on a secret. Alberta is Western Canada's very own winter wonderland and yields the kind of festive experiences that holiday dreams are made of.

Boating in British Columbia

How to Travel Beyond, According to Canada Travel Experts

Travel means something so different to everyone, and is much too personal for such a broad, all-encompassing term. We asked our Canada travel experts to unpack what it means to Travel Beyond, and relate it to their personal experiences. Take a look and let us know, what type of traveller are you?

The Rocky Mountains in Alberta

Dinosaurs, Lakes and Glaciers: Expert Approved Trip Ideas in Alberta, Canada

As Canada's 4th largest province, Alberta entices travelers with over 600 lakes, 75 provincial parks, 5 national parks, and 587 species of wildlife to discover. After 18 years of designing (and experiencing) Canada travel itineraries, we know a thing or two about the must-do activities in Alberta, Canada.

A Grizzly Bear in British Columbia

Bear & Wildlife Viewing in BC - Farewell Harbour Lodge

From a grizzly bear stare-down in the Great Bear Rainforest to gasp-worthy humpback whale sightings, discover tales and travel tips from our wilderness adventure at Farewell Harbour Lodge in BC.

Driving in Newfoundland

Road Trip in Newfoundland: a Travel Experts' Guide

The must see highlights, best driving routes, and tastiest seafood spots on an 11 day road trip in Newfoundland, Canada. The ultimate guide to your driving trip in Newfoundland.

Rocky Mountains in Winter

11 Winter Wonderland Trip Ideas in the Canadian Rockies

Last March, alongside a few travel experts from the Canada by Design team, I embarked on an action packed 6 night journey through Alberta's Rocky Mountains on a mission to scout as many new winter experiences as possible.

Knight Inlet Lodge British Columbia

Bear Viewing Adventures at Knight Inlet Lodge

We just returned from a grizzly bear viewing adventure at Knight Inlet Lodge with full hearts and full memory cards! Discover the best time to see bears, our favorite memories, and other tips from the 4 epic days of bear viewing, sea kayaking, and whale watching.

Skyline Trail, Cape Breton Highlands National Park

4 Reasons Travel Addicts Love Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia - the land of endless seacoast, Alexander Keith's beer and the friendliest people in the world. It's often overlooked as a travel destination, but is increasingly on more people's radar, and here you'll see why.

Quebec City in the wintertime

5 Reasons to Experience Quebec City in the Wintertime

Quebec City's winter season has grown increasingly popular over the years putting it on the map as a top destination for celebrating the holidays in. Find out why visitors are braving a little Canadian cold for a lifetime of winter-wonderland memories.

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