Tailor-made
Canada
Holidays

We're proud of the love, passion and insight we put into every holiday we design. And that magic is thanks to the endless first-hand experiences our team have clocked up in their countries over the years. When it comes to designing holidays, nothing beats being able to recommend an experience, a place, or a hotel based on our own experiences. So, those are the kinds of insights our Canada expert Paul set out to do this summer. Over four weeks, he criss-crossed the country, from the big cities to the wild backroads, in search of new experiences, characterful stays, and those all-important hidden corners to share with you. Holidays in Canada offer so much and Paul's here to help you get the most out of yours. Below, he tells us all about how he got on... Where did you go? I started my latest Canadian tour in Toronto , where I explored the city before heading out to the surrounding Niagara region. From there, I flew over to Vancouver Island and spent a week travelling around, taking in the island’s incredible nature and wildlife. I then spent time in the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver before journeying through the Okanagan , sampling local wines and watching the sun set over the lakes. From there, I ventured into bear country and was lucky enough to spot a few black bears in Wells Gray Provincial Park . I rounded off the trip by driving through the staggering Rocky Mountains, exploring the roads less travelled in search of the best secret spots for our clients. Paul at the Banff gondola What did you do while you were there? I spent much of my time immersing myself in the incredible nature and wildlife Canada has to offer. I was lucky enough to see multiple black bears, humpback whales, a pod of dolphins, otters, beavers, eagles, sea lions, and more. Some of these sightings were during organised wildlife experiences, which were truly unforgettable, while others happened simply by heading out on one of the many walking trails available. You can't really get away from the wildlife in Canada! And if it wasn’t wildlife we encountered, there was usually a stunning waterfall or two to keep us entertained. Did you discover any secret spots you can tell us about? One of the great things about Canada is just how vast it is, which means there are still plenty of unexplored bits waiting to be discovered. I love getting out and exploring on foot, and we found so many incredible trails that led to waterfalls and lakes, often with no one else around except the occasional bit of wildlife! I’d really recommend downloading a walking app like AllTrails, as it makes it so easy to head off into nature and explore with confidence. Some particular highlights for me were the Helmcken Falls trail in Wells Gray and the Little Qualicum Falls trail on Vancouver Island, both absolutely stunning and well worth the walk. An unexpected highlight A real unexpected highlight for me was in the town of Campbell River, where we stumbled across what might be the best Vietnamese food I’ve had outside of Vietnam. Nhau Vietnamese Kitchen is an unassuming little spot, but the food was absolutely 10/10. A real hidden gem and a great example of Canada’s multicultural flavour. Paul at Helmcken Falls, Wells Gray Provincial Park Talk to us about the food As I hinted at in my last answer, on holidays in Canada you really can eat your way around the world. You’re definitely not limited to the classic “burger and fries” that’s often associated with North America. I had incredible Korean food at St. Lawrence Market in Toronto , award-winning seafood chowder in Ucluelet , and quite possibly the best Mexican food I’ve ever eaten – inside or outside of Mexico – at Tacofino in Tofino . There was amazing Vietnamese food in Campbell River, hearty Austrian cuisine in a traditional stube setting in Radium Hot Springs, and the slowest, smokiest brisket at The Hop ‘n’ Hog in Clearwater, and let’s not forget the most creative and moreish pastries I’ve had in a long time, found in Kelowna’s thriving food scene. I could honestly go on and on, but if I had to pick a favourite meal… it was probably the next one! Because in Canada, there’s always another delicious surprise just around the corner. What was your most unforgettable moment? I always say this to clients and I followed my own advice, but in Canada, the early bird most definitely gets the worm. We left Lake Louise around 6am to head up the Icefields Parkway for a day of exploring. One of the best things about setting off that early is how quiet the roads are and on this particular morning, we were incredibly lucky. As we rounded a bend, with a mountain towering in the background and a lake glistening to one side, we spotted a black bear taking a slow, peaceful stroll along the road. Aside from one other car coming from the opposite direction, we had the moment entirely to ourselves. We slowed right down and simply watched as the bear plodded along beside the car before disappearing back into the forest. Seeing wildlife is always a privilege, but to witness such a majestic animal in that setting, in total peace and quiet, was truly unforgettable. What's the bit you'll be telling your friends about over dinner? Canada really is the most incredible destination for a family holiday . I was really fortunate that my family joined me for part of this trip, and it’s always incredibly special to share my passion for Canada with them. We were lucky enough to take part in some unforgettable wildlife experiences, thanks to some fantastic suppliers. One highlight was our whale watching trip with Campbell River Whale Watching and Adventure Tours. Our two guides were incredible, knowledgeable and enthusiastic, and they took us well away from any crowds to quiet, remote waters. There, we had the privilege of watching two humpback whales feeding, and we even saw a few breaches, which was just breathtaking. But the moment that really stuck with me was when my 4-year-old daughter turned to me and said, “I could sit here forever and watch the whales.” It captured everything about that experience in one sentence. It was such a proud and emotional moment. I knew then that I had passed on my love for Canada in that moment! Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Gallery Item [item_type] => image [full] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/09/30/toronto-sign---family-1.jpg [height] => 3024 [width] => 4032 [alt] => ) [video] => stdClass Object ( [src] => ) [thumbnail] => stdClass Object ( [src] => ) [video_aria_label] => Hit space to toggle, play or pause video [video_loop] => 0 [image_focus] => center [caption] => Paul and family in Toronto ) [1] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Gallery Item [item_type] => image [full] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/09/30/toronto-islands---family.jpg [height] => 2046 [width] => 1535 [alt] => ) [video] => stdClass Object ( [src] => ) [thumbnail] => stdClass Object ( [src] => ) [video_aria_label] => Hit space to toggle, play or pause video [video_loop] => 0 [image_focus] => center [caption] => Paul and family in Toronto ) [2] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Gallery Item [item_type] => image [full] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/09/30/niagara-city-cruises---family-5.jpg [height] => 4032 [width] => 3024 [alt] => ) [video] => stdClass Object ( [src] => ) [thumbnail] => stdClass Object ( [src] => ) [video_aria_label] => Hit space to toggle, play or pause video [video_loop] => 0 [image_focus] => center [caption] => Family boat trip to Niagara Falls [admin_label] => Gallery Item copy ) [3] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Gallery Item [item_type] => image [full] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/09/30/amphitrite-point-lighthouse---family.webp [height] => 3024 [width] => 2419 [alt] => ) [video] => stdClass Object ( [src] => ) [thumbnail] => stdClass Object ( [src] => ) [video_aria_label] => Hit space to toggle, play or pause video [video_loop] => 0 [image_focus] => center [caption] => Amphitrite Point Lighthouse, Vancouver Island [admin_label] => Gallery Item copy ) [4] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Gallery Item [item_type] => image [full] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/09/30/campbell-river-whale-watching-and-adventure-tours---family-2.jpg [height] => 3000 [width] => 4000 [alt] => ) [video] => stdClass Object ( [src] => ) [thumbnail] => stdClass Object ( [src] => ) [video_aria_label] => Hit space to toggle, play or pause video [video_loop] => 0 [image_focus] => center [caption] => Campbell River Whale Watching and Adventure Tours ) [5] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Gallery Item [item_type] => image [full] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/09/30/campbell-river-whale-watching-and-adventure-tours---ottilie-effie.jpg [height] => 1848 [width] => 4000 [alt] => ) [video] => stdClass Object ( [src] => ) [thumbnail] => stdClass Object ( [src] => ) [video_aria_label] => Hit space to toggle, play or pause video [video_loop] => 0 [image_focus] => bottom [caption] => Campbell River Whale Watching and Adventure Tours ) [6] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Gallery Item [item_type] => image [full] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/09/30/campbell-river-whale-watching-and-adventure-tours---ottilie.jpg [height] => 1848 [width] => 4000 [alt] => ) [video] => stdClass Object ( [src] => ) [thumbnail] => stdClass Object ( [src] => ) [video_aria_label] => Hit space to toggle, play or pause video [video_loop] => 0 [image_focus] => center [caption] => Campbell River Whale Watching and Adventure Tours ) [7] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Gallery Item [item_type] => image [full] => stdClass Object ( [src] => images/2025/09/30/campbell-river-whale-watching-and-adventure-tours-4.webp [height] => 1848 [width] => 1478 [alt] => ) [video] => stdClass Object ( [src] => ) [thumbnail] => stdClass Object ( [src] => ) [video_aria_label] => Hit space to toggle, play or pause video [video_loop] => 0 [image_focus] => center [caption] => Campbell River Whale Watching and Adventure Tours ) ) Show More @media (min-width: 1200px) { #zen-gallery-expand { display: none; } } @media (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 1199px) { #zen-gallery-expand { display: none; } } @media (max-width: 767px) { #zen-gallery-expand { display: block; } } document.addEventListener("DOMContentLoaded", function() { const videos = document.querySelectorAll(".zen-gallery-video"); videos.forEach(function(img, index) { if (!img.getAttribute("src") || img.getAttribute("src") === "/") { img.src = "https://placehold.co/600x400/transparent/000?text=Video+thumbnail+loading..."; const video = document.createElement("video"); video.crossOrigin = "anonymous"; video.muted = true; video.preload = "auto"; const videoUrl = decodeURIComponent(img.dataset.videoSrc); let isProcessing = false; let errorTimeout; errorTimeout = setTimeout(() => { if (!isProcessing) { video.remove(); } }, 5000); video.addEventListener("canplay", function() { if (isProcessing) return; isProcessing = true; clearTimeout(errorTimeout); video.currentTime = 0.1; // just a tiny bit in }); video.addEventListener("error", function(e) { console.error("Video load error:", e.target.error.message); video.remove(); img.src = "https://placehold.co/600x400/EEE/31343C?text=Browser+cannot+play+video+:(+"; }); video.addEventListener("seeked", function() { if (!isProcessing) return; const canvas = document.createElement("canvas"); canvas.width = video.videoWidth; canvas.height = video.videoHeight; try { canvas.getContext("2d").drawImage(video, 0, 0); const dataUrl = canvas.toDataURL("image/jpeg", 0.8); img.setAttribute("src", dataUrl); } catch(e) { console.error("Failed to generate thumbnail:", e); } video.remove(); canvas.remove(); }); // Add media fragment to only load first second video.src = `${videoUrl}#t=0,1`; video.load(); } }); }); document.addEventListener("click", function(e) { if (e.target.matches(".zen-gallery-expand")) { const items = document.querySelectorAll(".zen-gallery-item"); items.forEach((item, index) => { if (index >= 12) { item.classList.toggle("d-xl-none"); } if (index >= 9) { item.classList.toggle("d-md-none"); item.classList.toggle("d-xl-block"); } if (index >= 6) { item.classList.toggle("d-none"); item.classList.toggle("d-md-block"); } }); const anyHidden = Array.from(items).some(item => item.classList.contains("d-none") || item.classList.contains("d-md-none") || item.classList.contains("d-xl-none") ); e.target.textContent = anyHidden ? "Show More" : "Show Less"; if (anyHidden) { const expandButton = document.getElementById("zen-gallery-expand"); const rect = expandButton.getBoundingClientRect(); const scrollTop = window.pageYOffset || document.documentElement.scrollTop; window.scrollTo({ top: rect.top + scrollTop - 200, behavior: "instant" }); } } }); Where was your favourite place you stayed? Water’s Edge Shoreside Suites in Ucluelet was definitely a standout for me. The property sits right on the harbour, and the apartment blocks are designed to look like large harbourfront houses, but the real showstopper is the view. We stayed in a one-bedroom apartment with a balcony overlooking the water, complete with a jacuzzi bathtub. Sitting out there in the early morning, watching the boats and seaplanes come and go, or spotting wildlife in the harbour, was pure magic. It’s not flashy or over-the-top, just a wonderfully calm and peaceful place. The kind of spot where you can happily spend hours on the deck with a cup of tea and a good book, watching the world drift by. What did you learn on this visit? Something that really stood out on this trip, and has been building for a while, is the reality that many of Canada’s big bucket list spots, while undeniably spectacular, are now edging toward being too busy to fully enjoy (unless you plan things cleverly!). If you arrive at a popular viewpoint or waterfall during peak hours, it can be absolutely packed to the point where you're jostling shoulder to shoulder just to get a photo. It takes away from the sense of awe and connection with nature that should be at the heart of the experience. Paul on Lake Louise What I’ve really learned on this trip is how much Canada’s vastness can work in our favour. There are so many other equally incredible places that are far less travelled, spots that offer a much more peaceful, authentic, and unique experience for our clients. It’s not that we have to leave out the iconic sights altogether, but it’s reassuring to know that we can blend those with more off-the-beaten-track moments to create something truly special. It gives us the chance to design holidays that feel thoughtful and original, rather than just another “off-the-shelf” itinerary that the whole world is doing. Paul hiking the Sinclair Canyon Trail What top tip will you be passing onto your clients? I’ve alluded to this already, but it’s worth repeating. Get ahead of the crowds, wake up early, meet the sunrise in the mountains, and you’ll be rewarded with some of the most breathtaking landscapes and wildlife Canada has to offer, often with no one else around. If you can reach these places before the crowds, they truly take your breath away. You have time to pause, soak it all in, and really connect with your surroundings. The beauty of it is, after a day full of adventure, you can head back to one of Canada’s incredible accommodations, put your feet up, and watch the sunset unfold across a stunning backdrop, all from the comfort of your room. Paul at the toe of the Athabasca Glacier Trailhead, Jasper National Park What's the one thing people can't miss? You simply must do a wildlife experience in Canada. We work with some of the best guides, who strike the perfect balance between intimacy and avoiding the crowds. It’s a genuine pleasure and privilege to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. You might spot a black bear foraging with its cub along the coastline or a pod of whales gliding through the ocean. Canada is one big playground of any wildlife lover. And I promise these moments will be highlights of your Canada holiday. So, there you have it. A quick summary of Paul's latest Canada adventure. This is just the tip of the iceberg though. He's got countless tips, tricks and stories to share. So, if you think Canada could be your next dream destination, send us an enquiry to get a quick quote, or give Paul a call to chat all about it. Chat to Paul Canada holidays Paul recommends Dreaming of your own Canadian adventure? Get in touch with Paul for ideas, tips and a quick quote for your next holiday today. ZEN_HOLIDAY_GET_A_QUOTE ZEN_HOLIDAY_TEL ZEN_HOLIDAY_OPEN_HOURS

Introducing: The International Mountain Awards  Things may have gotten a bit complicated again with travel recently, but we’re here to raise you up with the awards you never knew you needed. So, if you’re looking for summit to read this International Mountain Day… (sorry, we couldn’t help ourselves)… Look no further. From elusive peaks through to iconic ones just waiting to be explored, our wonderful world is bursting to the brim with ranges.   1. The Award for the most Elusive Mountain goes to… Mount Fuji, Japan If ever a mountain was to be labelled ‘shy’, it’s Japan’s iconic, cone-shaped Mount Fuji. Keep an eye on the weather when planning your visit, but don’t hedge your bets too much. Even on a sunny day, Mount Fuji has been known to sneak behind cloud or the summer haze that rises off the lakes, often leaving visitors wanting more. There are some public webcams available though, so you can check just how elusive the mountain is feeling before making your day trip to catch a glimpse of this iconic Japanese symbol. Try your luck at seeing it for yourself on this Japan getaway that gives you two nights in nearby Hakone   2. The Award for the most Lively Mountain goes to… Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica Although it’s currently snoozing, Arenal volcano is Costa Rica’s most active mountain. Up until 2010 it was erupting daily offering up an impressive show of bright red lava bubbling over the side of its cone-like crater. Despite being dormant though, Arenal is still Costa Rica’s adventure capital, with countless activities, stunning hiking trails and many natural hot springs to rest your weary adventure limbs in (it has its lively resident to thank for that!) Experience Costa Rica’s adventure capital on this Costa Rica family holiday   3. The Award for the Most Remarkable Mountain goes to… The Remarkables, New Zealand Towering over the lakeside city of Queenstown in New Zealand, these remarkable mountains really do live up to their name. Regardless if you venture up them, they will provide a beautiful backdrop to your time in this part of the country. If you do choose to take a closer look, from the south-side of the mountains you’ll be treated to a staggering view of Queenstown. If you’re visiting New Zealand during the winter, and are a fan of the powdery white stuff, this mountain range is one of the best spots for skiing in the region. Take in the beauty of New Zealand’s South Island on this South Island Scenic adventure   4. The Award for the Most Adventurous Mountain goes to… Torres Del Paine – Chile / Argentina – Andes mountain Wrap up warm when you visit Torres Del Paine, that place is Chile… (We’re not even sorry). The three impressive and towering granite peaks of Torres Del Paine alone are worth a visit to Chile’s most famous national park. But, a hike around this stunning display of natural beauty will see you uncovering lakes the colour of spearmint, This Patagonia holiday will see you taking in the very best of Chile and Argentina   5. The Award for the Most Challenging Mountain goes to… Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania If challenging yourself is top of your travel wish list for 2022, climbing to the top of Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro could be the mountain adventure for you. Frequently considered to be one of the greatest outdoor challenges on the planet, conquering Kilimanjaro could be the perfect excursion  if you’re really looking to test yourself (and enjoy the experience of a lifetime of course!) A climb up to the ‘Roof of Africa’ will see you making your way up to 5,895 meters above sea level, take 6 to 8 gruelling days and a fair level of fitness. It’s said that only between 45 and 65% of people who take on the challenge actually make it to the top. But we’re certain that watching the sunrise over the horizon at the summit will be worth every step. Do you fancy your chances? Climb Kilimanjaro on this active Tanzania adventure   6. The Award for the Most Iconic Mountain goes to… El Capitan, Yosemite The iconic, domineering granite wall of El Capitan is without doubt one of Yosemite’s most recognisable landmarks. There’s something truly magical about the light in Yosemite, it wraps around the vertical cliff faces of El Capitan and the Half Dome and is particularly beautiful early in the day when the morning mist gently coats the lush valley in a blue haze. If you really want to explore everything this staggering national park has on offer (including countless imposing mountains, wildflower meadows and plummeting waterfalls), we recommend staying for around three days, there’s just so much to see. Uncover the Yosemite mountains for yourself and so much more on this 13 day National Parks Road Trip itinerary.   7. The Award for the most Bucket-List Ticking Mountain goes to… The Rockies, Canada A visit to the Canadian Rockies will treat you to awe-inspiring mountain valleys, endless icefields, flowing rivers, snow-capped peaks, pristine glaciers and boundless nature. Plus, this mountain range is home to the Rocky Mountaineer, a train ride that makes it on to almost every travel-lovers bucket list as something to experience at least once in a lifetime. Ride the rails of the Rocky Mountaineer   8. The Award for the Most Wonder-Full Mountain goes to… Andes Mountains, Peru – Machu Picchu The lush, forested peaks of the Andes Mountains were hiding a fairly spectacular secret for quite some time. The ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu, now one of the seven wonders of the world (quite rightly), wasn’t rediscovered until 1911. Few mountains are home to an archaeological masterpiece quite like this. You can explore this Andes gem either under the steam of your own two feet, taking on the famous Inca trail, or you can opt for the more relaxed route and take the train up! Either way, this mountain’s secret empire is ready to wow. Trek to Machu Picchu and explore Lima and Cusco on this Peru holiday itinerary   9. The Award for the Best Sandy Mountain goes to… Dune 45, Namibia We’re clutching at straws a little here we realise, but the impressive sand dunes of Namibia’s Namib Desert couldn’t not feature on our best mountainous roundup. The elegant curves, glowing colours and monstrous peaks of what some claim to be the world’s largest sand dunes contrast almost perfectly with the almost other-worldly ‘vleis’ that lurk in their shadows. Get there early to hike up the sandy peak before the crowds arrive. Seeing the sun gradually cast its golden glow over the vast plains of Sossusvlei is an experience not to be missed. Uncover this sandy world for yourself on this Classic Namibia Self Drive holiday      

We have some exciting news for you today. It’s been a while, but after a period of hibernation that the Grizzly bears themselves would be proud of,  Canada  is officially back on our holiday menu, and it’s bigger and better than ever. From the iconic Rocky Mountains to the icy blue lakes and the vibrant cities of Vancouver and Toronto , Canada is a country that packs a serious punch. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures, serene escapes, wildlife encounters you’ll never forget, or a mix of it all, this vast and beautiful country has something for everyone. And with our new Canada expert, Paul, on board, you’ll get the inside scoop on everything this incredible destination has to offer. Below, Paul shares why he’s excited to be heading up the relaunch, with some top tips thrown in for good measure.   Why are you excited to be relaunching Canada for HA? “I’m really excited to be relaunching Canada , as it is such a special place that exceeds expectations. It’s home to some of nature’s finest masterpieces, like the well-known Rocky Mountains and Niagara Falls , but also to some of the lesser-travelled wonders, like the Bay of Fundy or Dinosaur Provincial Park . Each offers different and unique experiences, but all are equally amazing. Canada is also home to so many different cultures, all of which add something a little different to its cosmopolitan cities, bringing them all to life through a riot of music, art and food. Get your jazz hands ready in a downtown bar in Montreal , live like a local in Toronto and head to Kensington Markets to grab yourself a tasty treat and meander around the unique artisan shops, or check out Indigenous artefacts showcasing Canada’s history in one of the many museums across the country. Canada’s people aren’t the only thing that’s diverse; so is its wildlife. Few places on earth offer such incredible opportunities to see to bears, moose, deer, beavers, wolves, coyotes, whales, eagles, and caribou to name a few. The national parks and wildlife lodges dotted around the vast country offer some of the best wildlife viewing in the world. However you choose to explore this remarkable country, whether it is hiking one of the many mountain trails or cruising around the lakes in a canoe, once you have dipped your toes in, you’ll want to dive right back in and keep exploring all that this incredible country has to offer and I can’t wait to help you experience it all for yourself”     What’s your top Canada holiday tip? “Make sure to always have some Loonies and Toonies to hand! The $1 and $2 coins are essential for paying parking meters, vending machines, laundry facilities, and especially when passing through some of the smaller Canadian towns. They’re charming and ‘oldie-worldie’ in so many ways, and “contactless” hasn’t quite reached there yet!”     Where’s your favourite place in Canada? “ Montreal holds a special place in my heart, I think mainly because when I first visited, I actually had no expectations but ended up being completely captivated by the city. It’s so unlike any other North American city that I have visited, in that it beautifully blends a modern city, into a old-world European style city effortlessly. Mont Royal, which was actually designed by the same mind behind Central Park, offers sweeping views beautiful tree lined walks, which feels very North American, yet a short stroll away you can be in Old Montreal where cobbled streets, historic architecture, and the sound of jazz music fills the streets! I think what truly sets it apart is its cultural diversity, you can take a walk through neighbourhoods like Little Italy, home to Jean Talon market, or explore Chinatown, mile end or the plateau, each offering their own atmosphere, food and character and it’s not just the city itself, within a few “Canadian hours” you can be hiking the mountains of Tremblant or paddling around Algonquin provincial park or heading up the St Lawrence river on the look-out for whales. For me Montreal is a microcosm of Canada , a really friendly, multicultural city that has art, music, history, food, and the outdoors all just a 7-hour flight away from the UK! It perfectly blends everything that makes Canada so special.”   Here’s a living, breathing glimpse at what makes Canada so special   Ready to experience the magic of Canada firsthand? Reach out to our Paul for a chat about your dream itinerary, he’s here to design a tailor-made Canadian adventure that ticks every box (even some you didn’t know you had!). Just one message or phone call to 01242 253 073 and your journey begins.