If you’re looking to travel without breaking the bank, Vancouver Island has landed on top of a list of affordable Canadian destinations worth checking out for your next getaway.
The East Coast of Vancouver Island was featured in a recent Travel + Leisure roundup highlighting several places across the country where travellers can enjoy a vacation without spending too much.
“Consistently cooler temperatures up north, a continued strong U.S. dollar vs. the Canadian dollar, and the legendary friendliness and hospitality of Canadians could all factor into the surge in tourism,” the publication wrote.
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Several outdoor destinations on the east coast of Vancouver Island helped it earn the number one spot on the Travel + Leisure list.
“Known for luxury wilderness resorts and world-class surfing in Tofino, Vancouver Island also enjoys some of Canada’s mildest weather, making it one of the country’s most popular vacation destinations,” said the publication.
“You’ll stretch your budget the most here by heading northeast from Victoria, the capital, to stay in smaller coastal enclaves like Parksville and Campbell River instead.”
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The Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort and the Naturally Pacific Resort also got a shout-out on the list.
Tigh-Na-Mara is in Parksville on Vancouver Island and is a short ferry ride from Vancouver; it boasts an award-winning wellness experience, a forested retreat ambience with rustic chic log cabins, and a front-row view for storm-watching.
Naturally Pacific Resort has many notable amenities, including mineral pools at Immersion Spa & Wellness, dining at Carve Kitchen & Meatery, and the fairways at Campbell River Golf Club.
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort
“Magnificent provincial parks, like Englishmen River Falls and Elk Falls, offer free entry for hiking and chasing waterfalls,” added Travel + Leisure.
“Make time for boat trips to spot humpback whales and grizzly bears with Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours during the summer months.”
Other Canadian destinations to make the list included Calgary, Edmonton, Quebec’s Eastern Townships, Hamilton, Whitehorse, and Winnipeg.
You can find the full list on the Travel + Leisure website.
With files from Kendall Collins