Introduction
Looking to travel this summer without enduring a mandatory two-week quarantine upon your return? There’s no better time to explore the beautiful country you live in than right now! There’s still loads of time left to enjoy summer vacation with your family. Here are some of the best travel destinations in Canada you may not have thought to visit – but definitely should.
Why Travel Within Canada?
Yes, inter-Canadian travel can seem expensive but you have to remember, Canada is one vast nation. But we guarantee travelling across this beautiful country is totally worth the price. Not only is Canada home to some of the most beautiful and unique vacation spots in the world, but it is rich in cultural history. Plus, you won’t have to quarantine when you return home. With back-to-school quickly approaching, we know it isn’t easy to travel overseas with young children.
In Canada, vaccinations rates are doing great, which means you can travel safely. And you won’t have to worry about your children missing any time in school to quarantine at home when you get back home. So, let’s get to it! Here are some of Canada’s most fantastic travel destinations that every Canadian should see at least once!
Whitehorse, Yukon
Two words for you: Aurora Borealis! The view of the Northern Lights from the Yukon is one of Canada’s most beautiful natural phenomena. Starting from mid-August to later April, visitors can get a chance to see the beautiful Northern Lights in real life. The winter months are known for being extremely cold so you may actually prefer a late-summer or early fall trip to view the electric colours in the night sky. You can also tour the quaint city of Whitehorse and see loads of local wildlife. Known as a “small city with a big backyard,” Whitehorse is a destination you won’t soon regret.
Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland
This stunning national park is over 458,000 acres of land of the west coast of Newfoundland is the perfect travel destination for adventure travellers. Hiking through the picturesque Tablelands is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can also take a boat ride along Western Brook Pond where you’ll get a front-row seat to a fjord that features majestic 2,000-foot waterfalls. The view of this captivating part of the country is so breathtaking that it’s no surprise it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Niagara Falls, Ontario
Known for the famous Horseshoe Falls, this beautiful site is one the whole family will enjoy. If you’re looking for a night of fun and fine dining, enjoy a picturesque view of the falls from atop the Skylon Tower’s Revolving Dining Room. You’ll get a panoramic view of the city and the majestic falls while sipping on fine wine and eating a delectable meal. The ride up to the top in an elevator with a clear glass wall is as spectacular as the view from the top.
Then enjoy a view of the falls at night from the observation deck. You can also try your luck at the casino or walk along the edge of the falls to take that perfect family photo. For an up-close and personal view of the falls, ride the Niagara City Cruise. This boat will take you just a few feet away from the falls to see and feel the beauty of this natural phenomenon. Remember to grab a plastic poncho – it gets a little wet! If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can also take a helicopter ride for an utterly incredible view of the falls from above.
Banff, Alberta
More than 3 million visitors come from far and wide to enjoy the beauty of Banff National Park in Alberta every year. In the summertime, you’ll enjoy the unparalleled view of the Canadian Rocky Mountains as well as the serenity and grace of Lake Louise. This resort town is known for more than one activity. You can choose to take a wildlife safari where you’ll see elk and grizzly bears from a safe distance.
You can also opt for a round-trip gondola ride to the top of Mount Sulphur or schedule a guided tour or Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Families can also enjoy horseback riding, canoeing, rafting, and of course, excellent dining and shopping is also available throughout the town. One of Canada’s most famous natural attractions, Banff is a must-see all year round.
Quebec City, Quebec
A trip to Paris may be a little out of reach this year, but a visit to Quebec City is as close as you can get to it Paris without leaving the country. Also a UNESCO World Heritage site, Quebec City is a visit to old Paris. With the smell of brewing coffee and freshly baked baguettes along the cobblestone streets, you’ll feel like you went back in time.
This picturesque town features the famous Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac Hotel and centuries-old architectural marvels. You can also head over to Montmorency Falls Park to view the 270-foot falls. In the evening, enjoy a stroll along the old-fashioned city streets and fine dining just about anywhere you go.
Vancouver Island, British Columbia
Just a two-hour ferry ride from the mainland, Vancouver Island is a perfect spot for adventure travellers and nature lovers. This remote area is home to some of the country’s best hiking trails, beautiful camping grounds, and some fantastic lodges and resorts.
You’ll be taken away by the 1,000-year-old trees that loom so high, you won’t be able to see the top. If you enjoy the great outdoors and viewing wildlife in their natural habitat, you will love a trip to Vancouver Island. Fun for the whole family, there are loads of incredible views and sights to see on this beautiful island in British Columbia.
Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia
The Bay of Fundy borders both New Brunswick and Nova Scotia and is well-known for its amazing tides. The difference between high tide and low tide is as much as 19 metres, which is the largest tide variation in the world! Some high tides can reach up 56 feet, which is the highest recorded height in the world. This truly unique, world record-breaking spot is a beautiful sight to see. There is also exquisite marine life around this area, making for a trip that is as educational as it is jaw-dropping!
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
Located near the city of Kelowna, the Okanagan Valley is known for its majestic fruit trees, including Canada’s best selection of cherries, pears, apples, plums, peaches a variety of different grapes. It is also home to over 200 local wineries. Each subregion in the area boasts its own grape variety, producing a unique blend in every winery. Enjoy panoramic views of Okanagan Lake or head over to Naramata Bench to enjoy everything from winery tours to kayaking and mountain biking. For wine connoisseurs and adventurers alike, this beautiful destination is a serene and calming spot that makes for a perfect summer vacation.
Ottawa’s Parliament Hill, Ontario
Built-in the second half of the 19th century, Canada’s Parliament buildings feature the House of Commons and the Senate, divided by the Peace Tower, its most iconic structure. You can take a guided tour to learn more about Canada’s political system and the history of our nation. You can also take a boat cruise along the famous Rideau Canal, sign up for a three-hour bike tour, or even board an open double-decker bus for a quick and easy view of the city. You can hop on and off the bus at any time to extend your visits in select areas.
CN Tower, Toronto, Ontario
One of Canada’s largest metropolitan cities, Toronto is also home to the famous CN Tower. Looming over 550-metres above street level, this incredible structure is a sight to see. Visitors can work their way up to the top to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city of Toronto. If you’re feeling adventurous – and we mean very adventurous – you may even want to try the EdgeWalk. This activity with harness you to the top of the tower where you can walk outside along the edge of it. While it may not be the best activity for anyone scared of heights, thrill-seekers will absolutely love this activity. If thrills aren’t your favourite thing, you can still enjoy the tower safely from the inside and even enjoy the city’s amazing culinary treats.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia
A scenic drive along the Cabot Trail is one of the most relaxing drives you’ll ever take. Known for its breathtaking views, the Cabot Trail runs through the park and along the highway. You can expect to see stunning ocean views, centuries-old forests, and even prehistoric rock sediments. The landscapes of this national park are absolutely stunning and the whole family is sure to enjoy. If you’re up for more after a visit to this scenic spot, you can take a four-hour drive to Halifax to visit the Pier 21 Immigrant Museum to see ship images and artifacts from those who immigrated to Canada more than 60 years ago.
St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador
This picturesque fishing town is the main entryway point into Newfoundland & Labrador. This maritime location is like walking into a small town somewhere far away from mainland Canada. The culture, the people, the vibe, and even the scenery is nothing like you’re used to seeing in your part of the country. With colourful buildings, fishing activities, and a plethora of local restaurants, this town is a fun-filled spot that makes for a perfect getaway in the Great White North. Along the town’s many hills you can catch a picture-perfect view of the harbour. The history buff will also enjoy a trip to St. John’s as it’s a city that’s rich in Canadian history and culture.
Whistler, British Columbia
Known mainly for its amazing ski terrains, this former winter Olympics games venue is a top Canadian destination in winter. But there are still loads of things to do in summer in this beautiful town. You can enjoy a leisurely day of golfing, take the family bear viewing (from a safe distance, of course!), hike along beautiful trails, zipline across the trees, or spend the day enjoying the beaches, parks and lakes. The perfect destination for enjoying nature at its finest in the summertime, Whistler is a fabulous vacation choice for singles, couples, and families alike.
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Known as the home of fictional character Anne of Green Gables, Charlottetown is a big city with a small-town feel. From the famous Lighthouse in Cavendish National Park to the Victorian style architecture, this town is the perfect place to enjoy a coastal vacation at a local beach house or cottage. Besides spending your days by the seaside, you can also enjoy the historical sites of this perfect summertime destination. History lovers will truly enjoy the Confederation Centre of the Arts. First opened in 1964, this national memorial centre pays homage to the Fathers of the Confederation and also holds a museum, art gallery, and a theatre.
Tofino, British Columbia
It hasn’t been officially renamed, but Tofino is often referred to as the surfing capital of Canada. Located on Vancouver Island, this small town is home to beautiful beaches and gnarly waves. If surfing adventures are on your to-do list, then this is the summertime destination for you. You can also relax at oceanfront beach lodges or enjoy world-class restaurants when you’re not surfing the waves.
Should We Go on Vacation this Summer?
The pandemic has had most of us confined for more than a year. If vacationing seems daunting to you, we get it. However, a trip within Canada can save you many of the travel hassles the world is facing right now. You won’t need to quarantine upon your return, and your vaccination status won’t affect your ability to visit these cities. Plus, experts say vacations can actually save your life! Yes, taking a much-needed vacation can improve your heart health, reduce stress levels, boost brain power, and even improve sleep habits. Have you had trouble sleeping this past year due to job loss, income loss, or other pandemic-related worries? Well, you’re not alone. Thousands of Canadians have been struggling just the same as you.
A vacation is a great way to release all of the stressors that have been holding you down and slowly eating away at your happiness and your health. Consider taking some time off and enjoy a relaxing vacation right here in your very own country. From adventurous to relaxing, Canada is chock full of wonderful vacation destinations for the whole family.
How Can I Afford It?
The next obvious question is how you’ll pay for it. We know funds can be tight, especially this past year. BHM Financial can lend the fund you need to take your much-needed vacation today. Even if you have bad credit, we can help. BHM Financial offers bad credit loans and we never base our decision to loan you money on your past credit history. You can apply for a loan on our website today and get instant approval. You can have your cash in hand the same business day.
Our vacation loans can put as much as $25,000 for your dream vacation in your hands in a single day. Our expert financial advisors can work with you to develop a repayment plan that suits your lifestyle so you can pay us back and still live your life at the same time. Here are a few tips to help you plan for your vacation loan:
- Plan out your trip details
- Get estimates on the costs of each element of your vacation
- Assess your finances to see how much you can afford to pay back comfortably
- Make a spreadsheet that tracks your current income and expenses
- Meet with a financial expert at BHM to clarify any grey areas for you
- Inform yourself on all of our loan products
- Apply for your loan and book your vacation today!
Why BHM Financial?
BHM Financial can help you with all of your financial needs. We are a direct lender and we don’t deal with any third parties. This allows us to approve your loan requests even quicker than most other lenders. If you’ve suffered through some hard times and are finding yourself with a ton of debt and poor credit, a traditional banking institution will more than likely deny your request for a loan.
At BHM Financial, we never judge you on your past. Instead, we work with each of our clients to help you find a loan product that makes sense, a repayment plan you can stick to, and we also offer financial advice to help you get out of debt for good. Plus, you can count on our expert financial officers to help guide you through the loan process and help you start rebuilding your credit score today. Book a consultation with us, fill out an application online, or call us today to see how we help you make your vacation dreams a reality!