Canada: Cash in on Cheap New Flights
Why 2016 is the year to go
WestJet recently announced new non-stop flights from London Gatwick to several Canadian destinations, including Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto and Vancouver, starting in May, 2016. Thanks to some highly competitive introductory rates, it’ll be cheaper to travel to Canada than it has been for a long time. For example, UK travellers can get an economy return ticket from Gatwick to Calgary from just £414. British Airways and Virgin don’t fly from Gatwick to Calgary, but return fares with these airlines from Heathrow range from £680 to £780 on similar dates. The exchange rate is also favourable at the moment – with two Canadian dollars to the pound, UK travellers will get more for their money once they’re in Canada.
Canada is known for
Diversity! From modern downtown Vancouver, the winter wonderlands of Whistler are just a hop, skip and ski-jump away – only 90 minutes by car on the stunning Sea-to-Sky Highway. Calgary is the gateway to Banff, Lake Louise and adventures in the Canadian Rockies. To the east, Toronto’s museums, shops and distinct neighbourhoods rival Manhattan – albeit on a smaller, more manageable scale.
Insider tips
If you’re in Calgary, a trip up Calgary Tower is a must. The views from the top (160m high) are unbeatable. The Calgary Stampede, an annual rodeo festival, takes place in July and is well worth a visit if you’re in Canada over the summer months. If Vancouver is on your list, we recommend a trip to Granville Island Market – foodie heaven! Make sure you also plan a day trip to Victoria and Vancouver Island – it’s possible to sail into one port, drive up the coast and sail back from another.
Best time to visit
For those who want to explore the cities, we recommend travel dates in spring or autumn, as you'll get good weather but shorter lines and fewer tourists. At most of the resorts from Quebec to Lake Louise to British Columbia, ski season generally starts in mid-November and goes into March or April.
Travel essentials
Currency: Canadian dollar Visa required? British Citizens don’t usually need a visa to visit Canada for short periods. From 15 March, 2016, you will have to get an electronic travel authorisation (eTA) to enter Canada by air. You can get one online ahead of time. To find out more, click here Plugs: Canada uses the same plugs as the United States Visit the website for Canada’s tourism board for more information.