O Canada, how I’ve admired you from afar (and kept you at the top of my travel wish list). From next spring, however, travel to the land of maple trees will become a whole lot easier with the launch of Canada’s low-fare airline WestJet in London.
WestJet is set to operate direct flights to six Canadian cities from London Gatwick with one-way fares starting from as little as £163 including taxes, fees and surcharges. As if that wasn’t brilliant enough, connecting flights to selected cities will be available for just £10, giving you more freedom to really explore Canada.
WestJet has been flying travellers across Canada since 1996 and now the esteemed airline is letting us Brits in on all of the fun.
I’ve already visited cosmopolitan Toronto for the Toronto Film Festival 2011 and have skied in the glorious Canadian Rockies (Banff, Lake Louise and Sunshine Village), but I’m keen to see more of this beautiful country.
Top of my list is Vancouver, as it’s a city with a cool cultural and foodie scene and it also has nature right on its doorstep. I would start with a panoramic view of the city from the Vancouver Lookout at Harbour Centre, followed by feasting on fresh seafood (Vancouver’s local speciality) at Lonsdale Quay Market, maybe catch the latest exhibition at the Vancouver Art Gallery and go shopping in hip Gastown.
Another destination to visit is Calgary, the largest city in the province of Alberta at the foot of the majestic Canadian Rockies. The highlight of the calendar is the Calgary International Film Festival and of course the Calgary Stampede – the world-famous rodeo festival with riotous parties, live music and diner food aplenty.
Or, how about checking out the 40 year-old Winnipeg Folk Festival and discovering the city’s musical roots (notable Winnipeggers include Neil Young and Crash Test Dummies)?
WestJet also flies to artistic Edmonton where you can explore the Royal Alberta Museum and discover emerging Canadian artists at the creative Gallery Walk. Last but not least is stunning St John’s, the capital city of the Newfoundland and Labrador. Be charmed by the colourful low-rise houses of Jelly Bean Row in downtown St John’s and get into the carnival spirit at the Mardi Gras Festival in October.
Of course for some people like Dave the Dog, WestJet’s game-changing discounted fares are still not quite enough. Sorry you missed the in-flight movies, Canadian beer, pretzels and a proper seat, Dave!
Are you feeling inspired to hike in the Rockies or take in the views at the top of Toronto’s CN Tower? Which Canadian destination excites you the most?
To plan your awesome trip to Canada, visit: www.westjet.com
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Photos of Toronto by Chérie City
