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From world-class hotels to high-flying restaurants, you can now experience a Canadian Luxury vacation like never before. The country is known for its abundance of natural beauty and urban wonders. What might surprise you are the many ways it can be transformed into something exquisite.

To experience the best that Canada has to offer, I sometimes suggest to my clients to start somewhere other than the big cities. You will find impeccable service and epicurean perfection in unexpected places. Below are just a few I often recommend.

West Coast Highlights

WhisBritish Columbia is known as an outdoor lover’s paradise, but now with a decidedly regal twist. For my clients that want to enjoy nature in style with world-class skiing from a hotel like the Whistler Four Seasons. Dinner at the unforgettable Sidecut Restaurant is a foodie’s delight.  As spectacular as Whistler can be in the winter, many clients tell me that they enjoy it even more in the summer. Regardless of the time of year you choose, this area can elegantly satisfy even the most discriminating traveler desiring a luxury vacation.

Off the west victoria-bccoast of BC is the massive Vancouver Island. In the capital city of Victoria, you’ll find the unparalleled Fairmont Empress. It’s the perfect temporary home that has even been enjoyed by the Queen of England. The hotel’s world-renowned high tea makes for a memorable afternoon. I suggested following it with a trip to Restaurant “Matisse” offering some of the region’s finest French cuisine.

The Splendor of Canadian Luxury in the Middle West

For some of the most awe-inspiring views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, I recommend taking a very special train from Vancouver to Banff Springs. This is no ordinary railroad! The award winning Rocky Mountaineer and its Gold leaf service is a must where you can take in panoramic views while enjoying five-star dinning and truly stellar service. This is considered one of the best luxury vacation train experiences available anywhere in the World.

Elk at Fairmont Banff SpringsBanff Springs is a delightful city with a casual and relaxed approach to luxury. Nowhere is this more evident than at the Fairmont Banff Springs. Nestled on the side of a mountain, it’s not uncommon to spot a family of elk grazing on the grounds. The hotel is only short cab ride or 15-minute walk down to the center of town. There you’ll find a nice range of choices for fine dining in some of the region’s most notable restaurants.

For a change of pace, and only an hour’s drive away, I recommend visiting the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.  Experience spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains is legendary. You may come for area’s stunning natural beauty, but you’ll stay for the equally impressive restaurants, accommodations and more that Banff National Park has to offer!

La Belle Province

quebec-cityThe province of Quebec, Canada’s French speaking province is ideal for travelers with a discerning palate. (As a travel consultant I know that some people who don’t speak French may be concerned about getting around. I visit the area often myself, and can assure you, you’ll have no trouble speaking English in all tourist areas!)

The world-famous “Panache” restaurant in Quebec City features some of the country’s best French cuisine. For accommodations, I recommend the Auberge Saint Antoine, a Relais and Chateaux hotel. It is a genuinely historic hotel filled with ancient English and French artifacts. The perfect way to spend a relaxing yet luxurious vacation in the province.

Luxurious Landmarks

Niagara FallsCanada’s most well-known destinations are not lacking in luxury vacation options today. From the urban centres of Montréal, Toronto, Calgary or Vancouver to smaller cities like Niagara Falls, all can be expertly paired with the right accommodations and hidden gems. After all, travel is not a one-size-fits-all experience. This is perhaps the most important reason I can think of to use a highly trained travel consultant. For me, travel is not just a job, but a passion and a joy to be shared.

Start your trip to Canada!

Dean Barreca

Luxury Travel Specialist based in Toronto, Ontario. Dean Barreca’s career and purpose are guided by one simple truth: Life can be a magical experience when lived to the fullest. With that in mind, Dean tends to take a different approach to the business of luxury travel.

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