The hibernation’s over: Canada holidays are back!

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.