CANADA looks set to be an ‘in’ destination for Irish holidaymakers this year, and when you look at what this vast country has to offer it’s easy to see why.
The second-largest country in the world is an exciting combination of French, British and US cultures mixed together with dozens of ethnic traditions brought in by migrants from all over the globe.
Canada has enough sights and natural attractions to keep visitors amazed for several lifetimes. There’s a huge variety of wildlife in its numerous nature parks including bald eagles, bears, lynxes, wolves and thousand-year-old pines.
Canada has truly amazing scenery. Many a breath has been taken away by the Rocky Mountain lakes and peaks, the endless forests and the prairie wheat fields.
And because it stretches from the Atlantic to the Pacific and from the latitude of Rome to beyond the Magnetic North Pole, Canada has an unspoiled landscape, which often seems to defy logic.
Where else could you find rainforest and desert close together like it is in the southwest corner of the country? While in the east, a short drive can take you from the impressive fjords to lush orchards.
Modern Canada is also revelling in cosmopolitan chic. Cities like Toronto, Montreal, Calgary, Vancouver and Victoria all have something different to offer the urban tourist.
As well at that, Canada is one of the few countries in the world which really can cater for every taste in holiday. And because there’s no language barrier it’s an ideal destination for Irish visitors.
The only problem is choosing what exactly you want to do when you get there.
Well, Cassidy Travel has launched its first ever direct Canada brochure, that highlights the many, varied attractions, this country has to offer.
Toronto will be a first port of call for many, where the sophistication of this metropolis is complemented nicely by the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the Niagara Falls, just two hours drive away.
Cassidy Travel is offering four nights in the 4-star Pantages Hotel Toronto Centre in Toronto, with two nights in the 3-star Days Inn Fallsview in Niagara from €799 with flights.
The uniquely French atmosphere and romance of Montreal will appeal to couples in particular, and a four-night stay at the 3-star Empire Suites Hotel in May is on offer from €499 pp including flights.
This is a city that abounds with cultural amenities and stylish restaurants and bars.
With convenient connecting flights to Calgary, the famous Rocky Mountaineer train trip is within easy reach. This unique voyage is as luxurious a journey as you are likely to experience.
An 8-night Canadian Rockies adventure with two days on board costs from €2,339 and the price includes a helicopter tour through the peaks of the Rockies.
The Cassidy Travel brochure also highlights road trips as an ideal way to capture the real Canada, such as the Vancouver to Tofino (British Columbia) trip, that takes in the mountain, lake and coastal scenery for which the country is famous.
Jasper National Parks and Banff make up another popular itinerary. Motorhomes can be booked from €64 per night for a family of three.
For a truly exotic experience, cruises of the Alaskan glaciers start from €1,179 for a nine-night trip in June taking in Seattle, Anchorage, the Hubbard Glacier, with husky sledding and orca whale spotting, and finishing in Vancouver.
Flights are extra, and Cassidy Travel can seamlessly bolt on cruises to other itineraries, such as the Rocky Mountaineer trip in Banff.
“Canada has been something of a hidden gem for years and it’s only now that Irish people are availing of the world of holiday options it has to offer,” said John Spollen of Cassidy Travel.
“Flights are more plentiful and great value, and it’s an easy and fascinating country for individuals, couples and families to explore.”
Prices quoted above are subject to change and packages may be booked in any of the Cassidy Travel travel shops across Dublin or phone 01-462 9100.
