Latin America and the Caribbean
Latin America Sightseeing
From the iconic Casa del Arbol, to spas, bungee jumping, white water rafting and more, Baños, Ecuador is a necessary stop for all travelers.
Latin America is a paradise for beach-lovers. With the exception of Paraguay and Bolivia, which are landlocked, the region offers plenty of coastline to keep vacationers happy. Whether you are after a raucous beach party or a quiet off-the-beaten path experience, the options are endless. Keep reading to learn about the great beach spot options for your next Latin American beach vacation.
Pura Vida, meaning simple life or pure life, is a term heard almost everywhere from people of all walks of life in Costa Rica. Rather than fight against nature, Costa Rican’s embrace it, make it part of their life and their livelihood. They live among nature like co-inhabitants rather than conquerors . . . that’s Pura Vida in Costa Rica.
Even if we live on the other side the world, in the same continent but in the coldest part of America, the Carnival of Brazil heats up any cold environment. For Brazilians, every year starts twice: celebrating New Year´s Day and enjoying the Carnival. In January and February Brazil is always preparing and waiting for such a magnificent event. All Brazil stops, nobody thinks of anything else different than celebrating. After all, it is the most famous holiday in Brazil!
Tucked away on the west coast of South America lies Peru, one of the continent’s hidden gems. With all these wonders to discover, you’ll find that one trip is not enough.
Latin America Resorts
I took a breath of the high mountain air and felt the world stand still in the shadow of Cayambe. My trance was soon interrupted by a unique welcoming crew of huskies and llamas. I immediately knew Punanti Hostel must be a special place.
This little mountain lodge is a perfect representation of Ecuadorian innovation, hospitality, and beauty. What makes El Encanto so special isn’t just the view and location but also the story of inspiration and hard work that defines the heart of the chalet.
Panama is derived from an old Indian word meaning “lots of fish and butterflies.” It has one of the world’s most spectacular ecosystems and jungles but less than an hour away, there is the vibrant urban life in Panama City.
Caribbean Sightseeing
From the lush rainforests, waterfalls, and volcano of Basse-Terre to the sun-drenched beaches, chic resorts, and vibrant dining scene of Grande-Terre, this under-the-radar destination delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.
With Canadians active in the global tourism scene, The Bahamas offers a warm, authentic alternative to U.S. winter spots. However, for Ottawa residents, the exciting news is that paradise is now just a direct flight away.
Whether you’re a yachty, visiting on vacation, a new local, or just a travel enthusiast like myself, this is your opportunity to understand the spots you HAVE to hit when you find yourself in this Caribbean gem.
Looking for a vacation that combines culture, beaches, fun activities and fantastic food? No matter what you’re searching for, Guadeloupe is just the thing.
Head to the Cayman Islands for a personal system reboot. No green juice required…the hot sun, cool cocktails and delicious food of this luxury Caribbean destination is all you need to change your personal programming.
Caribbean Resorts
From the lush rainforests, waterfalls, and volcano of Basse-Terre to the sun-drenched beaches, chic resorts, and vibrant dining scene of Grande-Terre, this under-the-radar destination delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.
Are you looking to escape the ravages of a Canadian winter and find yourself in an extraordinary Caribbean paradise? Then look no further than Cayo Levantado Resort.
If you are looking to escape the doldrums of winter and get rejuvenated, head to Melia Braco Village in Jamaica.
An architect’s love for jade and passion for his craft combined to create a one-of-a-kind paradise that will have you fall in love with Saint Lucia. The scenery is beautiful, the view is unbelievable but the three-kilometre drive from the town of Soufriere feels like a straight vertical climb up the side of a mountain.
Less than 50 years ago, Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, named after the cane palms in the area, is now a hot tourist destination. It is a shock that it took so long when you consider that the temperature is a constant perfect, the beaches are powdery soft and the ocean waters idyllic.
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Paris, the most visited destination in the world, has become a victim of it’s own success.
Old Spike Roastery is England’s first speciality coffee roastery to operate as a social enterprise- and it is well worth a visit.
On the eve of the commencement of 80th-anniversary celebrations of the D-Day invasion of France, I have just returned from a two-week battlefield tour of Italy, tracing the route of the Canadian First Division from the landing beaches near Pachino Sicily through the Moro River battles to Ortona.
Turkish Airlines transforms the ordinary ‘cross-the-pond’ journey from something you need to do to get there into an extraordinary experience, making the flight itself a memorable part of your travel adventure.
Many of the world’s finest dining establishments are found here, from the vibrant street markets of Istanbul to the coastal gems of Izmir and Bodrum. The Michelin Stars not only celebrate the mastery of Turkish chefs but also showcase the country’s commitment to culinary innovation and excellence.
Before our pilgrimage began, we were reminded that the Camino is what you decide to make of it. With an open mind, I was surprised by the peace and rest found with one of the greatest physical challenges I’ve endured.
Germany has been home to Christmas markets since the Middle Ages. Perfected over the last 400 years, they are an art form celebrated by locals and tourists alike.
Painted with colour, decorated with futuristic architecture and unique street art, everywhere you look something is interesting to see. One of Europe’s fashion capitals, even people-watching is a riveting activity.
Among the hustle and bustle of Váci street, one store caught my attention. On the corner of the street, through large glass windows, I saw an array of handmade products like pottery, jam, and candles. Upon entry, I realized this was more than a standard boutique.
We recently had the privilege of traveling to discover wine in Turkiye, an emerging wine superpower and take in some of the sites and history of this enchanting region.
In December 2022, I embarked on a two week road trip throughout Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Slovenia and Italy. It never took more than four hours to travel between each city, and yet each place embodied the history, beauty, and culture that make Europe renowned.
One of Türkiye’s most important stops within the Christian Faith Route, the House of the Virgin Mary draws visitors from around the globe. House of the Virgin Mary, located at Izmir, Türkiye is also very close to St. John’s Basilica and the Cave of the Seven Sleepers making the destination a very special Christian faith route.
Winding along picturesque country roads, past castles, orchards and the half-timbered buildings typical of the region, this is the best way to get to know Normandy and its bounty. You don’t need to follow a specified path. The entire coastline is a route in itself, with seafood aplenty in the ports along the Côte d’Albâtre (Alabaster Coast) and Côte Fleurie (Flowered Coast). Here’s just a taste.
My trip took me to Turkish culture’s largest art event, the Beyoğlu and Ankara Culture Route Festival in Istanbul and Ankara, which celebrate the two cities’ cultural, architectural, and historical heritage. This annual affair has over 6000 performers in the spectacular port city of Istanbul and the historic capital Ankara. These festivals are treasure troves which showcase the best of Turkish culture.
Şanliurfa is a city many in Canada have never heard of, and that’s extremely unfortunate. A week in Turkey exploring the oldest man-made structures ever found will leave you with an impression few other destinations can replicate.
Home to one of the few spots suitable for heli-skiing in the world, Türkiye’s Kaçkar Mountains put the country at the forefront when it comes to this exciting sport with its deep powder and long terrains.
We’ve assembled a list of some Southern French towns that celebrate the festive season in unique and beautiful ways which make it the perfect Christmas getaway.
Initially fortified dwellings, by the early Renaissance the castles became extravagant hunting lodges and homes for the kings and for the ministers who collected taxes on behalf of the monarch. Hunting, fishing, agriculture (and er . . . castle building) all thrived in this limestone-rich valley known as the Garden of France.
Glasgow is a prosperous, charming and gritty historical post-industrial city with a vibrant arts, music and foodie scene that has made it one of Scotland’s favourite destinations.
Tourism Ireland is encouraging Canadians to visit Northern Ireland and experience firsthand the glorious coastlines, traditional folklore music, food, entertainment and hospitality the region has to offer.
There are many unique cultural, historical, and natural experiences to be found in Wales, especially in the countryside and in the small coastal villages.