Heike Milo - Senior Travel Advisor, CTC

12/20/2024

Air Canada has a new flight to Asia. Non-stop flights from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in the Philippines starting in the spring of 2025. Flights will be operated with Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft featuring three cabins of service for customers to choose from, including Signature Class (Business) with lie-flat seats, Premium Economy and Economy Class.

The Philippines is a tropical paradise with its awe-inspiring beauty and vibrant culture. With its 7,641 islands offering diverse landscapes, you can go from pristine beaches to lush jungles in a heartbeat during your Philippines vacation.

Air Canada service will be year-round, with flights operating 4x weekly starting April 2, 2025.

12/19/2024

The Mozart Week in Salzburg, is taking place from January 23 to February 2, 2025. This is an exceptional celebration that brings Mozart’s compositions to life in both traditional and innovative ways.

This festival features solists and orchestras performing timeless masterpieces, while also offering modern interpretations, such as captivating dance performances and multimedia presentations. Set against the enchanting backdrop of Salzburg, the Mozart Week immerses luxury travelers in the composer’s world with an inspiring blend of classical and contemporary artistry.

12/18/2024

Iceland - 13 days of Christmas, an insider's guide to the holidays in Iceland.

Every night until Christmas, a new Yule Lad will visit the window and place a small gift in the shoe. Children with "room for improvement" can expect a rotten potato! For many, the Yule Lads are the best part of the days leading up to Christmas Day.

Let's start with Santas - or our very own Yule Lads. They have all 13 of them and they are no saints. Tricksters, thieves, and mischief-makers. Each lad has a particular craving reflected in their name: Spoon Licker, Door Slammer, and Sausage Stealer. Many believe the legends started around homeless, poor, and hungry men who were just trying to survive in the cold winter here in Iceland. Slowly, through the centuries, much about them, except their names, have changed.

Here’s a list of the 13 Icelandic Yule Lad’s names, in the order they’re said to come down from the mountains:

1. Stekkjastaur (Sheep-Cote Clod) on 12 December – He sneaks into barns to steal milk from sheep.
2. Giljagaur (Gully Gawk) on 13 December – This Yule Lad has a taste for cow’s milk and he’ll take it straight from the barn.
3. Stúfur (Stubby) on 14 December – The shortest of the lads, he swipes leftover food from frying pans.
4. Þvörusleikir (Spoon Licker) on 15 December – He licks spoons, of course.
5. Pottasleikir (Pot Licker) on 16 December – This guy will steal unwashed pots from the kitchen so he can lick them clean.
6. Askasleikir (Bowl Licker) on 17 December – He snatches bowls out from under beds and gobbles up any morsels of food.
7. Hurðaskellir (Door Slammer) on 18 December – He slams doors, and he’ll do this all night if he finds any open.
8. Skyrgámur (Skyr Gobbler) on 19 December – He’s ravenous for skyr, Icelandic yoghurt, and will pinch any that's up for grabs.
9. Bjúgnakrækir (Sausage Swiper) on 20 December – Hide your sausages or this guy will eat them.
10. Gluggagægir (Window Peeper) on 21 December – He’ll peep through windows in the hope he can steal something.
11. Gáttaþefur (Door Sniffer) on 22 December – You’ll find this large-nosed lad sniffing doorways in pursuit of baked goods.
12. Ketrókur (Meat Hook) on 23 December – He’s hungry for meat, so lock up your lamb chops!
13. Kertasníkir (Candle Beggar) on 24 December – Finally, the last of the Yule Lads is known for making off with candles.

If you visit during the holidays, you may catch one of them making a guest appearance at the National Museum. You can also go on a hunt for the 13 Yule lads and their twisted family in downtown Reykjavik, but their likeness is projected on buildings. Or, you may want to try your luck and leave out a shoe in the window to see what the Yule Lads think of you!

12/17/2024

Cancun - enjoy a stay at the 4-star Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe all-inclusive resort. This resort is beachfront, in the hotel zone of Cancun. Explore 8 restaurants and bars, multiple pools, and direct beach access for the ultimate all-inclusive experience. Enjoy music and entertainment every night + for families they offer a Kids Club ans waterslides. The all inclusive package includes Unlimited drinks and cocktails plus a mini fridge that’s restocked daily for you. This property offers 459 ocean-facing rooms!

Upgrade your stay to Enclave. Guests who book Enclave rooms and suites receive exclusive arrival experience, upgraded minibar, access to the Enclave Lounge with premium liquor brands and chef’s assorted tapas, Private pool areas and dedicated beachfront area, In-room welcome amenities and more.
This property is in the heart of the hotel zone and 20 minutes from the airport. With 6 flights a week non stop from Kelowna to Cancun until mid-April 2025 this is a great option for a winter getaway!

12/16/2024

Greenland has opened their new international airport in Nuuk November 30, 2024! Access to Greenland's capital and access to this spectacular country is now easier. The new international airport, equipped with a 2,200-meter runway will allow larger planes to connect the Arctic territory with the rest of the world. The new airport will serve as the base for Air Greenland, which will operate an Airbus A330neo plane on a route to Copenhagen, Denmark. It will be able to handle 800 passengers an hour. Flights will also link Nuuk to Reykjavik, Iceland with Icelandair. In June 2025, United Airlines will offer nonstop seasonal flights from Newark (New York), that will take just over four hours.

Two more airports are scheduled to open in Greenland at the end of 2026, connecting Ilulissat in the north and Qaqortoq in the south. In a country with only about 90 km of paved roads, locals and tourists will still need to fly or take boats to other destinations within Greenland, and these airports will significantly open up travel.

12/15/2024

Emerald Yacht cruise for 2026! Greek Islands from the Corinth Canal to the Bosporus. Enjoyo a 12 Day cruise from Athens roundtrip. Sailing April 14, 2026.

Sail through the remarkable Corinth Canal, a feat of engineering that connects the Aegean and Ionian seas. Explore the quaint town of Itea and visit the charming port of Katakolon, gateway to the ancient site of Olympia. Discover the beautiful city of Chania, resplendent with its Venetian harbour and bustling markets, be enchanted by the stunning views of Santorini Island and in Turkey, immerse yourself in the ancient history of Kusadasi. Then relax in the seaside town of Kepez, popular for its scenic coastline and delicious seafood. Conclude your adventure in the vibrant city of Istanbul, where east meets west and ancient meets modernity.

Experience an unforgettable voyage of discovery with shore excursions, EmeraldPLUS cultural experiences, and the EmeraldACTIVE program all included. Plus on board meals, a selection of drinks with lunch and dinner, on board Wi-Fi, shore excursions, port charges, airport taxes, and on board tips, all included.
Cruise price for an Oceanview suite from C$11, 545 per person/double occupancy. Other suites available. Space is limited.

Explore the Mediterranean by luxury yacht, with only 100 guests onboard!

12/14/2024

The hotel Montera Madrid - Curio Collection by Hilton is a 5-star hotel, conveniently located in the city center on Gran Via. Located within walking distance of attractions and shopping areas. The Art Triangle or Golden Triangle, is an area made up of 3 art museums and is just 1km away.

Stay here and enjoy the incredible view from the 93 hotel rooms and from the rooftop pool (seasonal) and Skybar. Take a 10-minute walk to explore Plaza Mayor and Plaza del Sol or walk approx 100 metres to the Gran Via Metro Station for easy access to explore Madrid.

12/13/2024

Exodus Adventure travels does Japan and they offer a uniquely rich experiences on their guided tours.

The 14-dau Ancient & Modern Japan tour lets you journey through storied cities, including Kyoto, a haven of temples, shrines and gardens, and downtown Tokyo, a kaleidoscope of colourful adverts and bustling streets.
Pressed for time? Our Highlights of Japan tour is an 8-day adventure starting in futuristic Tokyo and ending in cosmopolitan Osaka.
Walking holidays, such as our Japan’s 14-day Kumano Kodo tour, give you more time to absorb these sights, as you marvel at ancient Buddhist temples and rural life following a pilgrimage route.
The 14-day Cycling in Japan trip, has you pedalling along the Fuki coast and remote mountainous region of Shirakawa-go. After all that adventure, you’ll want to savour fine cuisine. Our Japan tours showcase ritualistic tea ceremonies and let you taste warming cups of sake. Seafood lovers will adore the fresh sushi, and who could resist the perfect bowl of udon noodles after a day exploring?

In terms of weather, the best time to visit Japan is when it’s most mild – that is, during Spring (March to May) or Autumn (September to November).

Why Exodus? All of our group tours consist of between 8-16people and are led by local experts who’ll give you a deeper understanding of the country’s history and culture as well as steering you to off-the-radar places away from the crowds. Exodus has over 50 years experience in adventure travel worldwide.

If you’re on your own, you’ll be glad to know that around half of Exodus travellers book , so it’s rare you’ll be the only single traveller. No extra charge being a solo traveller when you share a room with one other person of the same gender. Prefer your own accommodation? A single supplement applies.

From enchanting culture to the friendly people, our tours to Japan are unforgettable. If you’re ready to discover the Land of the Rising Sun, consider Exodus Adventure travel.

12/12/2024

The world of immersive theatre is set for 2025 with a thrilling lineup of productions in the UK.

West London will see a new venue, the Capital Theatre, opening in fall 2025. The theatre will debut with an adaptation of the 1987 film Dirty Dancing-The Classic Story on Stage, running from October 2025 to March 2026. The 620 seat venue is set over 35,000 sq ft, taking over the southwest corner of the Shepherd’s Bush shopping centre on the site of the former Debenhams department store.

Fashion meets Music in the West Ends glamorous adaptation of The Devil Wears Prada, in November 2024, exploring ambition and grace in the fashion industry. Kicking off the new year in February, Clueless the Musical offers a fresh and humorous take on the iconic American film, capturing the lively world of Beverly Hills teens through a vibrant pop score. Blending stunning choreography with uplifting music, the West End will welcome the enchanting story of Hercules in June 2025.
Paddington: The Musical is planned to debut in London for 2025, capturing the magic of Paddington's adventures and mishaps with the Brown family.

Beyond London, the UK tour of Mamma Mia, running from October 2025 to January 2026, make stops in cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh promising an exuberant celebration of love and friendship through ABBA’s beloved hits. From July to August sing along to the newest musical adaptation of beloved American TV series Friends, in theatres throughout England, Scotland and Wales!
Finally, the 2025-2026 tour of Matilda The Musical, debuting on Oct. 6 closes out the year with whimsical staging, catchy songs, and the spirit of resilience, including locations in Bristol, Cardiff, and Liverpool!

Theatre will be star-studded this year as Bridgerton, Wicked, and Jurassic World actor Jonathan Bailey takes center stage in London for his performance in Richard II. The production will run at the Bridge Theatre from February to May 2025.

12/11/2024

The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa, located at the base of Mount Otemanu, has officially opened in September 2024. This property was formerly Le Meridien Bora Bora. The resort recently completed an extensive property-wide renovation and rebrand to Westin. The resort offers the largest collection of overwater bungalows in Bora Bora, alongside beachfront bungalows.

The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa offers 128 overwater bungalows, many of which have a private plunge pool. The resort also has 14 family-friendly beach bungalows. The resort is also home to 6 dining concepts, including Tipanier, an all-day French Polynesian bistro offering a breakfast buffet in the morning, alongside lunch and dinner options.

The hotel features an infinity pool at the heart of the resort, a private lagoon, the Heavenly Spa by Westin and the WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio with its gear-lending program and a selection of fitness classes such as yoga, Pilates and Tahitian dance. This propoerty provide a scenic running route around the property.

Other activities include stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, beach volleyball, hydrofoil biking, paddle yoga sessions, snorkeling, scuba diving and deep-sea fishing excursions. Experience the culture of the island with the resort’s weekly Polynesian evening complete with a buffet dinner and dance.

The resort also promotes sustainability throughout every aspect of our property. Beginning with waste reduction that includes limiting the use of plastics, to water conservation, to the biodiversity conservation at our Eco Center, to local sourcing of ingredients for menus.

Let Your Dream Come to Life at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa.

12/10/2024

For a boutique hotel in Florence, Italy consider the Rivoli hotel. This 4-star hotel was formerly an ex-Franciscan convent that dates back to the 14th Century. The property has been fully restored and each hotel room interprets a different identity. Many of the rooms overlook the 14th century internal cloister, in addition the rooms reveal fascinating medieval details, well blended with modern conveniences.

Located In the historical centre of Florence you are in a fabulous location to explore. Within a short distance of the hotel, (5 minute walk) you will find access to the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, the Uffizzi Gallery and the church of Santa Maria Novella.
A charming hotel in the historic center of Florence that offers an authentic oasis of peace, well-being and relaxation.

12/09/2024

Busy time of year….

Pre-Book Your Valet Here.

12/09/2024

Explora Journey's has a 3rd ship set to sail in 2026! Explora III will embark on scenic journeys through Northern Europe's dramatic coastlines, the landscapes of Iceland and Greenland and traverse North America's East Coast before positioning to the Caribbean for the winter.

Starting in Southampton, England August 17, 2026, the ship will visit destinations in the Netherlands, Norway, Estonia, Sweden, and Germany, before making its way to Iceland and Greenland. Along the way, guests have the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path ports such as Ronne in Denmark, Nanortalik and Paamiut in Greenland, and Seydisfjordur in Iceland.

On Sept. 27, Explora III will arrive in Quebec City, Canada, before continuing its journey towards the U.S. and Canada's East Coast. The ship will arrive in Miami on Oct. 25, 2026 before setting sail to the Caribbean for the winter season.

The luxury ship will feature 463 spacious Ocean Suites, Penthouses, and Residences, as well as award-winning culinary offerings and ocean-inspired wellness experiences. Explora III increased the proportion of higher suite categories, offering more luxurious, inclusive, and spacious accommodations. Onboard, guests can take advantage of the reimagined Ocean Wellness and Fitness including The Spa and a state-of-the-art fitness center and studio. There is also an open-air fitness area on Deck 14, and a running track along Deck 12. The expanded Sports Court now offers pickleball, paddle, and basketball.

Explora III is on sale now for 2026 sailings. The Exclusive Sale is currently on now. This limited Time Offer - With up to 50% Savings. Book your next cruise before December 18, 2024.

12/08/2024

Venice Extends the daytripper fee - The city of Venice has announced it will retain the fee charged to day visitors in 2025. The fee will apply to those visiting the city between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday for those travelling between April 18 and July 27, 2025. Venice has nearly doubled the number of days the fees are collected and increased the rates if you book last minute.

Venice will require travelers who come for the day to pay €10 per person if they come last-minute, but if you book at least 4 days in advance, the rate is €5 per person.
Visitors who stay the night, local residents, students and others are not required to pay the fee.

The day trip fee isn’t the city’s only effort to address crowding. Earlier this year, the city took steps to limit the number of travelers allowed in tour groups in both Venice’s historic center as well as the popular islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello.

12/07/2024

SLS Playa Mujeres, the brand’s first ever all-inclusive resort , has opened its doors on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. this 4+ star all-inclusive resort features 498 rooms and suites featuring resort categories: Delight, Captivate and Euphoria, each guestroom with fully furnished balconies and terraces. Captivate Swim Out rooms feature private gardens that sweep down to river pools, while en-suite bathrooms are outfitted for post-pool glam complete with luxury amenities. SLS Playa Mujeres offers a collection of 1 and 2 bedroom suites, alongside the 3-bedroom suite, The Envy.

Upgrade your stay at his property with the debut of SLS Elite, a selection of rooms offering enhanced guest experiences including private lounge access, preferred dining reservations and entry to an exclusive beach. Some of the room categories for SLS Elite offer two-level rooms, each topped with a private roof deck whirlpool bath, lounge and panoramic views. SLS Elite guests can expect personalized check-in, butler service, a premium spirits package and airport transfers for extended stays, besides a complimentary Ciel Spa thermal bath experience.

Dining choices are plenty! SLS Playa Mujeres features 18 culinary and mixology experiences, The resort has 5 pools including a family pool and kid-friendly splash park, an adults-only pool and SLS Elite-pool at Privilege. Guests can also enjoy water sports, while the private marina allows for easy access to Isla Mujeres and the Great Mayan Reef beyond. This resort features more than 20,000 sq ft Ciel Spa that boasts thermal baths, an outdoor tranquility pool, 20 treatment rooms and the latest in movement and fitness facilities. This family resort also features a kids club and teens club.

Plan your stay at this amazing resort and choose from rooms with swim out access, sweeping ocean views, or the ultimate status travel, SLS Elite duplex suites with rooftop Jacuzzis and exclusive benefits. Set within an exclusive gated community and located just 30 minutes from Cancún International Airport.

SLS Playa Mujeres offers the rarely found balance of quality and quantity – a wealth of dining, entertainment, and recreation experiences that eclipse expectations of modern luxury and typical all-inclusive travel.

12/06/2024

Norway by Train? The natural landscapes in Norway are among the most beautiful on the planet, with superb coastal scenery, glacial rivers and world famous fjords. Norway in a Nutshell rail itinerary is a perfect choice! Discover the best of Norway and the spectacular Norwegian fjords on this 7-night ultimate vacation! This itinerary includes the spectacular Flåm Railway which runs between Myrdal and Flåm in Norway. It is one of the most popular rail journeys in the world due to the combination of its steep gradient and wonderful scenery. There is no onboard restaurant or cafe on the Flåm, however the journey is only an hour in duration.

Your journey begins in the Norwegian capital of Oslo, where you’ll experience all the top attractions of the beautiful harborside city. Then, take an unforgettable rail journey to Flam on the Flam Railway, voted the most scenic rail journey in the world. Spend two nights in beautiful Flam seeing all the sights, eating delicious local cuisine and taking an unforgettable journey by safari rib boat through the UNESCO Word Heritage listed Aurlandsfjord. From Flam, take another scenic journey by ferry through dramatic fjords to colorful Bergen for two days of sightseeing and scenery. From Bergen, return to Oslo on the famous Bergen line for a final night in the city.

What's included?
Return flights from London to Oslo (optional)
Rail, bus, and boat travel in standard class
3 nights' total hotel stay with breakfast in Oslo
2 nights' hotel stay with breakfast in Flam
2 nights' hotel stay with breakfast in Bergen
Oslo Pass
Ægir Viking plank and beer tasting in Flam
Fjord Safari boat trip from Flam
Bergen Card

Departures year round, Prices from C$ 2099 per person/2 sharing accommodation. Price based on January 2025 departures. Summer pricing from C$2879 per person.
This rail package can be customized (ex. upgrade accommodation, add excursions, stay longer).

12/05/2024

Tulip Time with AMA Waterways! A well-loved itinerary along the Dutch and Belgian Waterways, the popular Tulip Time river cruise has even more departures this spring! Sail 7-nights roundtrip from Amsterdam, This Netherlands cruise celebrates spring and tulip mania from March to May where there’s plenty of opportunity for
anyone who loves tulips to enjoy the Amsterdam’s Tulip Museum, private homes and gardens on display. Tulip Time sailings for 2025 start March 13 with departures until May 5.

Save up to 20% on select sailings with AMA Waterways. Offer ends Dec.31, 2024.

Travelling solo? Single supplement reduced on select sailings. This offer is applicable to all stateroom categories (excluding A+, AA+, suites).

https://youtu.be/s619jltDYqE?si=934vWVk6fCMjnQzu

12/04/2024

Planning a trip to Italy next year? Be aware it is the Jubilee Year, or Holy Year, which is a significant Catholic event occurring every 25 years. It's a period of spiritual renewal, forgiveness, and celebration. 2025 will be the next Jubilee Year in Rome and Vatican City, lasting from Christmas Eve, 2024 until the Epiphany festival in January 2026.

Most of the Jubilee activities will be at St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican and St. Peter’s Square in Rome Highly recommended to plan your trip in advance or book a guided tour to ensure you have accommodation and excursions. They are estimating the upcoming Jubilee, deemed the Jubilee of Hope, is expected to attract 35 million people over the duration of 2025 in Rome.

To avoid the bigger crowds, visit Iconic locations like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Whether you’re joining in with Jubilee events or simply sightseeing, it’s important to remember that various locations in Rome hold great significance for many people. Dress appropriately and conduct yourself in a respectful manner. If you’re not planning to take part in the celebrations, make sure to check event schedules and adjust your plans accordingly.

Italy Jubilee 2025 promises to be an extraordinary cultural and spiritual celebration, throwing a spotlight on the cultural heritage of Italy. Embrace age-old traditions, take part in special religious events, all the while enjoying the best of Italian cuisine and hospitality.