Travel blog

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! 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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