Travel Guides

The ULTIMATE Guide to the Best Things to Do in Ontario

October 29, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey

Ottawa is home to some of the best things to do in Ontario. — Ottawa is home to the nation’s capital.

Ontario is one of the biggest and most populated provinces in Canada and is home to some amazing cities, attractions, and nature. Ranging from the massive cosmopolitan city of Toronto to the scenic landscapes of Algonquin Provincial Park, there are so many things to do in Ontario. From kayaking next to loons to experiencing Canada Day on Parliament Hill, Ontario is definitely one of the most popular provinces to visit in Canada.

Some of the wonderful attractions in Ontario included taking a helicopter tour over Niagara Falls, visiting world-class museums in Toronto, enjoying the thrill of some of the world’s best roller coasters at Canada’s Wonderland, canoeing some of Canada’s best lakes and rivers, and visiting some of Canada’s top wineries, just to name a few.

Whether you’re visiting in the summer or in the winter, looking to do one of the many Ontario road trips, or looking for the best activities and attractions for your next trip to Ontario, we’ve got you covered in this extensive guide to the best things to do in Ontario.

Things to Do in Gananoque, Ontario

October 22, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

When it comes to uniquely beautiful places in Canada, Ontario’s 1000 Islands are near the top of the list. Dotted with thousands of islands, this chunk of the St. Lawrence River between the United States and Canada is full of scenic views, history, and fun attractions such as helicopter rides, boat tours, and more.

When it comes to the best things to do in Gananoque, a helicopter tour is at the top of the list.

There are also plenty of towns and even cities that can be found along the 1000 Islands region, but few compare to the town of Gananoque, which is known as the gateway to the Thousand Islands. This charming town is the perfect spot for those wanting to explore the region as it is home to many hotels and guesthouses, cozy shops, local restaurants, and art galleries.

So whether you’re looking for the best things to do in Gananoque or the neighbouring Thousand Islands, we’ve got you covered.

12 Great Things to Do in Laval

October 8, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

Looking for the best things to do in Laval, Quebec? You’ve come to the right place!

Ferme Marineau is one of the top things to do in Laval.

Laval is a great destination for anyone looking for a blend of urban excitement and natural rural beauty. Just a stone’s throw from Montreal, this vibrant city has something for everyone, whether you’re an adventure-seeker, foodie, or nature lover. Imagine spending the morning exploring high-tech interactive exhibits at the Cosmodome, the only space museum in Canada, and then kayaking down the serene Mille Îles River by afternoon. With its colourful festivals, endless shopping options, and rich cultural scene, Laval offers an experience that’s both laid-back and full of surprises.

From the lush beauty of Centre de la Nature—a sprawling green oasis perfect for a picnic or a leisurely bike ride—to the family-friendly fun at iFly or Ferme Marineau, Laval has activities that keep visitors coming back. Whether you’re interested in catching a live show, dining on world-class cuisine, or just soaking up the local charm, Laval is the hidden gem that deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.

We just got back from spending three nights in Laval during Autumn and it was a great place to bring the family. We visited a pumpkin farm, participated in an outdoor escape room, and so much more.

Things to Do in Peterborough and the Kawarthas

September 24, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

Peterborough and the Kawarthas are the ultimate getaway for anyone looking to experience the best of Ontario’s natural beauty, culture, and adventure!

The Canadian Canoe Museum is one of the top things to do in Peterborough. — Canadian Canoe Museum. Photo by Matthew Bailey.

This region offers a perfect mix of outdoor fun, history, and indoor attractions, with its stunning lakes, scenic trails, lush forests, amazing living history museums, and one of the top museums in the country, making it a great place to explore for anyone.

We’ve been to Peterborough a couple of times now and can’t wait to go back. Whether you’re paddling through the Trent-Severn Waterway, diving into Indigenous culture at Petroglyphs Provincial Park, or learning about Canada’s history at the Canadian Canoe Museum, Peterborough and the Kawarthas offer endless opportunities for relaxation and discovery.

It’s also less than a 2-hour drive from Toronto, making it a convenient place to explore on its own, during the Canadian Canoe Route Road Trip, or as you travel to Ottawa. So, get out your bucket list and choose from this list of the best things to do in Peterborough.

19 of the Best Things to Do in Sudbury

September 3, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey 2 Comments

The Big Nickel is one of the top things to do in Sudbury! — The Must-have Photo from Sudbury.

If you’re looking for things to do in Sudbury, you’ve come to the right place.

Located 400 kilometres north of Toronto and officially known as Greater Sudbury, this city of lakes has a population of approximately 170,000 people and was traditionally known as a mining town, including the Canadian Copper company, which was founded in 1886, and has since merged to become the Nickel Company of Canada. The city still has 10 mines, and as you may have guessed, many of the town’s attractions are related to mining, such as the impressive Science North, Dynamic Earth, and the famous Big Nickel.

However, it’s not just mining. Sudbury has more than 330 lakes, a variety of parks, and nature reserves, and is a city with some great restaurants and interesting activities. It has become a very popular place to visit in Northern Ontario.

We’ve now been there twice and even brought our 1-year-old twin girls, whom also had a blast. Whether you’re combining it as part of an Ontario road trip or just visiting the city on its own, these are the top 19 things to do in Sudbury!

The Best Things to Do on Campobello Island, New Brunswick

August 27, 2024 By Robin and Arlene Karpan 3 Comments

Campobello is one of Canada’s most unusual islands. Located at the western end of the Bay of Fundy, it is part of New Brunswick but with strong ties to the United States as it was the site of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s summer home. This has made the island a popular attraction for both Canadians and Americans.

Campobello Island — Liberty Point, Campobello Island, New Brunswick. Photo by Robin and Arlene Karpan.

From the Canadian side, it can be quite a fun adventure to visit the island as you’ll need to take two ferries. However, the island is just one kilometre away from Lubec, Maine in the United States, and from there you can drive to the island over a bridge.

Whichever way you enter, this is a really unique place to explore, which is why we’ve created this travel guide about the best things to do in Campobello Island, New Brunswick.

Best Things to Do in Fredericton, New Brunswick

August 20, 2024 By Robin and Arlene Karpan Leave a Comment

Fredericton, New Brunswick is one of Canada’s most pleasant and easy-going capital cities. With a population of around 70,000, it’s big enough to have every amenity while avoiding the congestion and problems of many larger centres. It also helps to have a beautiful setting along the Saint John River, also known as the Wolastoq.

Things to Do in Fredericton — Buildings in the historic Garrison District, Fredericton, New Brunswick. Photo by Robin and Arlene Karpan.

The city’s rich history dates back centuries from early Indigenous inhabitants to the fur trade era, French Acadians fleeing the British, United Empire Loyalists fleeing the American Revolution, playing a role in the Canadian Confederation, and becoming the site of Canada’s first English-speaking university, to name only a few notable episodes.

Part of what makes the city so appealing is that you can walk almost everywhere, with a compact downtown and a vast network of trails. A highlight is the Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge, a former railway bridge that crosses the wide river. It’s a wonderful link making it possible to enjoy both sides of the river on foot or bicycle without having to deal with traffic.

Whale Watching Victoria

July 30, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

Welcome to the wild and wondrous whale-watching world in Victoria, BC!

Whale Watching Victoria, Vancouver Island, and Port Renfrew Canada. — Watching Orca whales off the coast of Vancouver Island, Canada.

Imagine yourself aboard a boat, the salty sea breeze tousling your hair, and the anticipation of spotting one of nature’s most majestic creatures building with every passing wave. With its pristine waters and stunning coastal landscapes, Victoria is a whale watcher’s paradise. From the heart-pounding excitement of seeing a humpback breach to the serene beauty of orcas gliding gracefully through the waves, every trip is an unforgettable adventure.

Buckle up (or rather, hold onto your hats) as we dive into the best whale-watching experiences that Victoria, BC, has to offer! Whether you’re a seasoned marine enthusiast or a curious first-timer, get ready for a splash of excitement and awe-inspiring encounters with the giants of the deep.

Exploring Cypress Hills Saskatchewan

July 23, 2024 By Robin and Arlene Karpan Leave a Comment

Cypress Hills Saskatchewan — Sunrise at the Conglomerate Cliffs, Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, Saskatchewan. Photo by Robin and Arlene Karpan.

The Cypress Hills take you by surprise, revealing one of Canada’s most pleasant landscapes with its unique blend of grasslands, forests, and highlands. Unlike the surrounding plains, the upper reaches of the hills remained untouched by glaciers during the last Ice Age, leaving some of the highest land in Canada between the Rockies and Labrador.

While in the prairies, the Cypress Hills also have a lot in common with the northern forest and foothills of the Rockies, with a cooler climate and thick stands of white spruce and lodgepole pine. This combination of habitats makes for outstanding wildflower displays with species more common to the foothills growing next to grassland flowers. Of special note is the high number of wild orchids, with showy blooms such as the Calypso Orchid or the delicate Round-leaved Orchid.

22 of the Best Things to Do in Kelowna

July 9, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey 4 Comments

Things to Do in Kelowna, BC. — Enjoying a helicopter flight over Kelowna.

Things to Do in Kelowna Last Updated: June 15th, 2024

Located along beautiful Okanagan Lake, surrounded by desert and wineries, Kelowna is easily one of British Columbia’s tourism jewels. It’s the third-largest metropolitan area in British Columbia, behind only Vancouver and Victoria, and is one of the most popular summer destinations in the province. It’s also one of the warmest destinations in Canada, so whether you’re looking to get some sun, go boating, hit up a golf course, visit wineries, or even visit in the winter for some awesome skiing, Kelowna is a great place to explore.

However, another great feature of Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley is that it’s home to many other great communities, such as Vernon, Peachland, Summerland, and Penticton. Plus, it’s right in the middle of the drive between Calgary and Vancouver, making it a great place to visit during an epic Canada road trip.

The BEST Things To Do in Banff, Alberta

July 2, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey 27 Comments

Banff Tunnel Mountain Hike — Enjoying views from Tunnel Mountain.

Canada’s first national park, which also happens to be one of the first national parks in the world, is also the country’s busiest and most popular. A “fairytale” mountain town surrounded by towering mountain peaks, there are lots of incredible things to do in Banff, Alberta. Living just over an hour away in Calgary, we’ve been to Banff well over 100 times and never get tired of visiting this beautiful slice of alpine paradise.

Attracting approximately 3-4 million visitors each and every year, it’s no secret that this is a bustling tourist town. But that’s okay. With that comes a variety of hotels, activities, bars, restaurants, and, of course, plenty of souvenir shops as well. If you’re looking for things to do in Banff, you’re in the right place.

Date Ideas in Montreal

April 23, 2024 By Darren Penney Leave a Comment

If you’re looking for date ideas in Montreal, you’ve come to the right place!

The fall season is a great time for organizing date ideas in Montreal. — Montreal is extra romantic during the Fall.

After all, this city is replete with lush sights, culture, and amazing eats – basically everything you need for an unforgettable first date. Beyond iconic areas like Old Montreal and Mount Royal, this ridiculously charming city is packed full of treasures waiting to be discovered alongside that special someone.

Whether you’re in the mood for a sunset stroll in Mile End or a picnic in the Parc du Portugal, there’s no shortage of romantic things to do in Montreal. Live music beckons from panoramic cocktail bars, delicious food abounds in its intimate restaurants, and the local art scene provides endless inspiration for conversation.

So, let’s check out some ideas for a romantic date in Montreal.

23 of the Best Things to Do in Victoria, BC

April 16, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey 13 Comments

Things to Do in Victoria BC

Things to Do in Victoria – Last updated: April 21, 2024

When it comes to beautiful Canadian cities, Victoria is definitely high on the list. Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is British Columbia’s capital and one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest. A British settlement since 1843 and named after Queen Victoria, the city is home to a variety of historic buildings, including the beautiful parliament buildings and the world-famous Empress Hotel. The city is also home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada, vibrant First Nations communities who have called this place home long before European settlement, and is widely known as “The Garden City” thanks to its mild weather and almost year-round gardens.

Victoria is also ranked as one of the top 20 cities worldwide for its quality of life and is relatively snow-free in the winter months, something rather unusual for a Canadian city. Another benefit of visiting Victoria is the city’s surroundings, which include a stunning Pacific coastline, lush rainforest, and beautiful mountains. It’s also conveniently located near both Vancouver, BC, and Seattle, Washington.

If you’re looking to visit a beautiful laid-back city surrounded by outdoor adventure and nature, Victoria should definitely be on your bucket list. In this Victoria BC Travel Guide, we’ll share with you some of the best things to do in Victoria while also sharing some tips on saving money, how to get around, where to stay, and much more.

Top 10 Things to Do in Forillon National Park

April 16, 2024 By Robin and Arlene Karpan Leave a Comment

Looking over Land’s End from atop the Mont-Saint-Alban Trail. Forillon National Park, Quebec. Photo by Robin & Arlene Karpan.

Forillon National Park combines jaw-dropping scenery with exceptional hiking, wildlife viewing, kayaking, and other adventure possibilities. Jutting into the northeast point of Quebec’s Gaspé Peninsula, it’s a land of forested highlands and rugged coastlines where soaring cliffs drop into the sea at aptly named Land’s End. Adding to the surprises are reminders of a little-known era of Canadian history.

So whether you’re into history, nature, or a little bit of everything, here is our list of the top 10 things to do in Forillon National Park, Quebec.

58 Best Things to Do in Calgary, Canada

April 2, 2024 By Matthew G. Bailey 12 Comments

Things to Do in Calgary. Drone flight overlooking the city. — Calgary has one of the best city skylines in Canada.

Things to Do in Calgary Last Updated: March 26th, 2024

Although known for the world-famous Calgary Stampede and its proximity to the Canadian Rockies, there’s so much more to this beautiful city.

With beautiful outdoor attractions and neighbourhoods, cultural hot spots, food tours, winter sports and festivals, Calgary is a hidden gem quickly gaining in popularity. Nestled in the Alberta Foothills, Calgary is one of Canada’s most multicultural and fastest-growing cities. Known for its laid-back Western atmosphere, it’s also a bustling tech town with one of Canada’s youngest populations.

Although we travel and write about the best of Canada, Calgary is our home city and we’ve lived here for 20 years. People are always asking us about the best things to do in Calgary, so we’ve created an extensive guide to help you explore the city. Whether you’re a local looking for the best restaurants in Calgary or a first-time visitor looking for the best Calgary tours, this is your guide to the best things to do in Calgary year-round.

These are the Best Water Parks in Ontario

March 19, 2024 By Darren Penney Leave a Comment

Is there a better way to cool off on a hot summer’s day than enjoying one of the best water parks in Ontario? We think not!

These are the Best Water Parks in Ontario

As Canada’s most populated province, there are many awesome water parks in Ontario. These places have everything you need for a weatherproof family vacation: lazy rivers where you can float for hours, huge tube slides, massive wave pools for body surfing, picnic areas and even private cabanas for when you want some respite from the sun. Some of these spots are directly connected to full-fledged amusement parks too – perfect for crafting a day of thrills.

So without further ado, here are 9 of the best water parks in Ontario that offer fun activities for the whole family!

7 Unique Places to Visit in Saskatchewan

March 12, 2024 By Robin and Arlene Karpan 7 Comments

Are you looking for some interesting and unique places to visit in Saskatchewan?

Crooked Bush is one of the most unique places to visit in Saskatchewan. — Crooked Bush is one of the most unusual places to visit in Saskatchewan. Photo by Robin & Arlene Karpan.

If you like your travels a bit on the odd or unusual side, Saskatchewan has plenty to offer. From saltwater lakes and snake pits to Canadian wars and mysterious bushes, here are seven unique places to visit in Saskatchewan that range from historic to imaginative to downright spooky. One is even a bit creepy.

Road Tripping through Duck Mountain Provincial Park of Saskatchewan and Manitoba

February 6, 2024 By Robin and Arlene Karpan Leave a Comment

The Duck Mountain Highlands straddle the Saskatchewan/Manitoba border. They are remarkable for having some of the most southerly boreal forest wilderness in the Prairies. Surrounded mostly by farmland, these hills remain a wild oasis cloaked with dense forest, numerous lakes and wetlands, valley meadows, and wildlife such as black bears, moose, deer, lynx, coyotes, and wolves.

Duck Mountain Provincial Park, Saskatchewan. — Farmland near Duck Mountain Provincial Park, Saskatchewan. Photo: Robin and Arlene Karpan.

Some 15,000 years ago, massive ice fields more than three kilometres thick were melting, pooling their waters into enormous glacial-fed Lake Agassiz. Along the western edges, ridges developed into the uplands that we see today.

Both Saskatchewan and Manitoba have a Duck Mountain Provincial Park to protect the environment and provide some outstanding recreational possibilities.

The best part is that we can take a scenic road trip loop combining the highlights of the parks in both provinces, including the highest point of elevation in Manitoba. Along the way, we also visit the mind-boggling Swan River Magnet Hill where you won’t believe your eyes as your car rolls uphill.

Sleeping in the Trunk – A Special Big Trees Vancouver Island Road Trip

January 30, 2024 By Zack Metcalfe Leave a Comment

Big Trees Vancouver Island. — Are you looking to experience a Big Trees Vancouver road trip? Check out this giant of Eden Grove. Photo by Zack Metcalfe.

I don’t cry easily, and that’s been true as far back as I can remember. Numbness comes more readily than tears, a sort of stoic deadening I hide behind when emotions start to bite, but that didn’t happen when I visited the Harris Creek Spruce back in 2018.

It was my first truly giant tree, a Sitka spruce of a startling, almost grotesque diameter, untapered from root to canopy. Its bark had so completely surrendered to time that no useful distinction could be made between the flesh of the tree and the blankets of lichen and bryophyte embedded therein, generations of Witch’s Hair that couldn’t have been excised with a scalpel.

This titan is tucked in the regrowth of an 1893 clearcut in southwestern Vancouver Island, and while the surrounding forest has recovered admirably from the axe – already larger and wilder than any I’d yet seen – the Harris Creek Spruce is separated from its neighbours by centuries of experience, much of it with loss.

Hiking Near Montreal

January 16, 2024 By Darren Penney Leave a Comment

Looking for the best hiking near Montreal? You’ve come to the right place!

Hiking near Montreal: La Roche Lookout in Mont Tremblant National Park.

Infused with European vibes, Montreal is home to some seriously charming sights such as the Old Montreal neighbourhood and the Old Port of Montreal. But while the city is packed with plenty to keep you entertained, sometimes you just need to escape the daily grind. What better way to do that than to plug into nature, right?

Well, the good news is that Montreal offers easy access to some truly epic hiking trails. Plus, you don’t need to be super experienced since the city is surrounded by hiking trails for all fitness levels. Whether you’re just looking for a relaxing nature walk, a full-on mountain challenge, or a more moderate hike punctuated by scenic views, there is lots of spots to go hiking near Montreal for everyone.

So, pack a picnic, grab your best hiking shoes, and get ready to hit those trails. These are the top places to go hiking near Montreal!

Things to Do in Paris Ontario

December 19, 2023 By Darren Penney Leave a Comment

Known as one of the prettiest towns in Canada and rich in adventures and outdoor activities, there are so many fun things to do in Paris, Ontario.

Thing to Do in Paris, Ontario

This southern Ontario town is often lost in the shadow of its overly-famous French namesake, but we can assure you that it’s worth discovering. Nestled in a beautiful river valley at the joining of the Grand and Nith Rivers, Paris is so small that you can easily soak up all the best sights in just a couple of days!

Historic buildings, tumbling waterfalls, scenic spots, and delicious eats all come together to create a classic, small-town charm that’ll win over even the fussiest of travellers. There’s something for just about everyone there, but we think that fans of the great outdoors will be won over by the sheer abundance of nature activities that await.

So without further ado, let’s check out 21 of the best things to do in Paris, Ontario!

Best Places to See Northern Lights in Canada

November 28, 2023 By Darren Penney Leave a Comment

If you’re interested in the best places to see Northern Lights in Canada, you’ve come to the right place. I mean, who hasn’t dreamed of witnessing one of the most awe-inspiring spectacles that nature has to offer?

Best Places to See Northern Lights in Canada.

Of course, we’re talking about the celestial wonder of the Aurora Borealis. This natural phenomenon has been captivating people for centuries now- and for good reason!

After all, there’s nothing quite like this magical display of dancing ribbons, twisting and undulating across the sky on a crisp winter’s night. From soft pinks and purples to that legendary ghostly green and even the occasional blue tinge, the aurora borealis sure know how to put on a show – but they can be as fickle.

Averaging around 240 nights of visibility per year, Canada certainly offers a front-row seat to this unique experience. So, to help you tick this off your bucket list, we’ve put together a guide of the top places to see northern lights in Canada – so grab your winter boots, and let’s get started!

29 Awesome Things to Do in Squamish

November 21, 2023 By Karla Bailey Leave a Comment

If you’re looking for things to do in Squamish, this travel guide is for you!

Things to do in Squamish, British Columbia.

Nestled at the crossroads of breathtaking natural beauty and exhilarating outdoor adventures, Squamish is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by intrepid travellers. Known as the “Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada,” this charming town is like a playground for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. Imagine standing in awe beneath the towering granite walls of the Stawamus Chief, one of the world’s largest granite monoliths, or feeling the misty spray of the stunning Shannon Falls as it cascades down the rugged cliffs. Whether you’re an avid rock climber, an avid hiker, or simply a lover of stunning landscapes, Squamish offers an unforgettable escape into the heart of the Pacific Northwest’s wild wonders. So, grab your hiking boots, harness your adventurous spirit, and prepare for an amazing journey through Squamish’s outdoor paradise!

These are the top 25 things to do in Squamish!

Jasper Dark Sky Festival | Everything You Need to Know

November 14, 2023 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

Having fun at the Jasper Dark Sky Festival — Showing off my Jasper Dark Sky Festival bomber jacket.

The Jasper Dark Sky Festival in Jasper, Alberta, is an out-of-this-world experience you won’t want to miss! Imagine a weekend filled with stargazing, live music, fascinating astronomy talks, and the chance to witness the stunning beauty of the night sky in one of the world’s largest Dark Sky Preserves. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or simply a lover of the cosmos, this festival offers something for everyone. Explore the mysteries of the universe through powerful telescopes, embark on celestial-themed hikes, and even enjoy the opportunity to meet renowned scientists and space experts. Plus, the charming mountain town of Jasper provides the perfect backdrop for your cosmic adventure.

So, if you’re looking for a unique and enchanting getaway that’s truly “out of this world,” mark your calendar for the Jasper Dark Sky Festival and prepare to be starstruck!

The Best Things to Do in Noel, Nova Scotia

October 31, 2023 By Karla Bailey Leave a Comment

Noel Nova Scotia — Burntcoat Head Park, Noel Nova Scotia.

If you’re looking for a charming and unforgettable escape, Noel Nova Scotia is a hidden gem that should be at the top of your travel list. This coastal wonderland boasts breathtaking landscapes that will leave you awe-inspired. Imagine strolling along pristine beaches with the iconic Bay of Fundy tides at your feet, exploring quaint fishing villages that feel like stepping back in time, and indulging in some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste. It’s also home to the world’s highest tides, where the water level can change by as much as 50 feet in a matter of hours. These tides also bring adventure, such as walking on the ocean floor or going tidal bore rafting on the Shubenacadie River.

The Noel Shore region is a nature lover’s paradise, with hiking trails, wildlife watching, and photo opportunities galore. So, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie seeking culinary delights, or simply someone in need of a serene coastal retreat, this Nova Scotian treasure is the place to be. Come for the tides, stay for the charm, and leave with memories to last a lifetime.

After a recent visit, we’ve compiled the best things to do in the Noel Shore region of Nova Scotia.

Exploring the Percé UNESCO Global Geopark in Quebec

September 5, 2023 By Robin and Arlene Karpan Leave a Comment

Perce Quebec is home to the magnificent Percé Rock, which ranks among the most recognizable landmarks of Eastern Canada. Sitting just offshore on the eastern end of Quebec’s Gaspé peninsula, the monolith is close to a half kilometre long and 85 metres high. Its signature piercing spans 30 metres, one of the largest natural stone arches over water in the world.

Perce Rock and the town of Perce, Quebec. — Perce Rock and the town of Perce, Quebec. Photo by Robin and Arlene Karpan.

Visitors have been coming for years to gaze over this seaside vista. However, the recent formation of the Percé UNESCO Global Geopark has brought a greater appreciation for this special place and the realization that it is so much more than a postcard view.

12 Best Newfoundland Tours

August 22, 2023 By Matthew G. Bailey 2 Comments

The best Newfoundland tours.

If you’re looking for the best Newfoundland tours, you’ve come to the right place.

As one of our favourite places in Canada, Newfoundland is a vibrant tapestry of breathtaking landscapes and captivating culture, all of which the locals are eager to welcome you with. With its rugged coastline, dramatic fjords, and picturesque fishing villages, Newfoundland offers a visual feast that’s a treat for both eyes and cameras. Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted by the chance to spot whales, puffins, and icebergs on the horizon while history buffs can learn about some of the oldest places in North America. But it’s not just about the scenery – for what truly sets Newfoundland apart is the warm and welcoming locals that bring the place to life with their unique blend of Irish and English heritage, filling the air with tales of old and the sweet strains of traditional music.

From walking tours of historic St. John’s to kayaking next to icebergs, these are the 12 best Newfoundland tours to enjoy on your next vacation.

Things to Do in Shelburne, Nova Scotia

August 15, 2023 By Robin and Arlene Karpan Leave a Comment

Arriving in Shelburne, Nova Scotia seems like stepping back in time to an 18th-century seaport. Unlike many other communities where historic sections are often overwhelmed by surrounding modernity, Shelburne is like a time capsule because of its unique history.

Shelburne Nova Scotia. — Historic buildings in Shelburne, Nova Scotia. Photo by Robin and Arlene Karpan.

Shelburne County and neighbouring Barrington County sit near the southern tip of Nova Scotia. As we toured around the region we discovered not only a rich history but also stunning coastal scenery, quirky local museums, offbeat activities, and fabulous seafood in what is known as the Lobster Capital of Canada.

From axe-throwing to history, here are the best things to do in Shelburne, Nova Scotia!

Four Saskatchewan Sand Dunes You Must Visit

August 8, 2023 By Robin and Arlene Karpan Leave a Comment

Giant dune, Athabasca Sand Dunes, northern Saskatchewan. Photo by Robin and Arlene Karpan.

If you like to play in the sand, Saskatchewan should be at the top of your must-do list. The province has the largest and greatest variety of sand dunes in the country, including Canada’s biggest and second-biggest dune fields. Here are our top four choices, each offering something special. The best news is that all but one are easy to visit.

The Best Things to Do in Lac La Biche, Alberta

July 19, 2023 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

Lac La Biche region, Alberta.

Last updated: July 19, 2023

Located approximately two hours northeast of Edmonton, Lac La Biche is an outdoor adventurers’ playground. Home to vast wilderness, provincial parks, and beautiful lakes, it’s a great place to get out and see the dark sky, search for wildlife and birds, spend the night in a cabin, or enjoy the vast network of trails via hiking, quadding, or snowmobiling.

It’s also home to some unique communities that make it a very diverse place. Some of these communities include the First Nations Peoples, one of the largest Lebanese populations per capita in the province, a large French population, and a range of others, including the “white Russians” that fled during the communist era.

Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors or visit an incredible indigenous art gallery, Lac La Biche is an off-the-beaten-track destination full of cool things to do and see. In this travel guide, we’ll share with you some of the best things to do in the Lac La Biche region, where to stay, where to eat, and more!