Dig out those passports and dust off your suitcase: the winter travel season is upon us! From sun escapes to classic Canadian destinations, we’ve put together a list of exciting and inspirational places to consider for your travel plans this winter. Best of all, airfare is under $1,000—in fact, sometimes less than $500—when you book through FlightHub.
FlightHub takes the guesswork out of booking travel. When you search for flights, you’ll instantly see the total cost of your trip, taxes included. And, if you’re flexible on dates, most destinations include a rate calendar, letting you choose the best price. Select your preferred number of stops (we all love direct) and sign up for alerts when the price of that flight drops. Then flip over to the Hotels tab to get the best deal on accommodations, quoted for your entire stay. Planning the perfect getaway doesn’t get any easier than this.
Wellness on the Baja
Departure: Vancouver, British Columbia Arrival: San José del Cabo, Mexico
Fill your camera roll with images of the iconic El Arco (the Arch) on a sun-drenched getaway to San José del Cabo, Mexico. (Photo by Roberto Nickson on Unsplash)
It’s a straight shot down the Pacific coast to Mexico’s Baja California peninsula where the cities of San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas welcome visitors in search of rejuvenation. The relatively dry and warm climate is the backdrop for soul-filling experiences, unique spa treatments and modern twists on traditional Mexican cuisine. Crystal-clear beaches, mystical desert landscapes and rising mountains in the distance set the stage for your ideal sun getaway, whether that means exploring the vibrant local art scene, teeing off at oceanside courses or filling your camera with images of a distinctive landmark known as El Arco (The Arch).
January:
As low as $421 from Vancouver
As low as $422 from Calgary
There’s more to Orlando than its famous theme parks, including a vibrant arts scene and abundant wellness options. (Photo by Talia on Unsplash)
Widely known for its thrilling theme parks, Orlando, Florida has another side, one that celebrates art, wellness and promises a good night’s sleep. Artful indulgences await at the city’s many museums and galleries, and wellness options abound, offering new techniques and fresh perspectives at spas throughout the city. Get outside and explore natural springs, birding, nature trails, fishing, kayaking and airboat rides through Florida’s lush ecosystems.
February:
As low as $508 from Winnipeg
As low as $211 from Toronto
Caribbean cultural immersion
Departure: Toronto, Ontario Arrival: Philipsburg, Sint Maarten
France and The Netherlands share the tiny paradise of Saint Martin/Sint Maarten, where the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea caress the shoreline, hikers and adventurers explore the hilly landscape and French cuisine delights the senses. With over 100 cultures and nationalities sharing the island, it’s packed with history and delightful discoveries around every corner.
February:
As low as $523 from Toronto
As low as $540 from Calgary
Desert escape
Departure: Edmonton, Alberta Arrival: Phoenix, Arizona
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An inspiring desert escape awaits in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Joe Cook on Unsplash)
Is there anything more inspiring than an Arizona sunset? A favourite destination for Canucks in search of some desert heat in the dead of winter, Phoenix continues to lure us with its cacti-dotted trails, lush gardens, quirky wildlife and world-class sporting events. Golfing and spa visits are a must, as well as sampling the plentiful eateries, many of which focus on Southwestern and Mexican specialties and use homegrown ingredients like peppers and pomegranates.
January:
As low as $324 from Edmonton
As low as $230 from Vancouver
London rivals Las Vegas for sights, sounds and tastes that make for an unforgettable visit. (Photo by Sabrina Mazzeo on Unsplash)
London calling
Departure: Montreal, Quebec Arrival: London, England
Beyond Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey, London rivals Las Vegas for sights, sounds and tastes that make for an unforgettable visit. Pop in to a speakeasy for a Sherlock Holmes-themed afternoon tea, take in a must-see musical and visit Covent Garden Market for crafts, antiques and jewellery. Night owls will love the lively pubs, street markets and after-dark tours. You can even cruise the Thames on an Elvis-themed night tour.
February:
As low as $648 from Montreal
As low as $710 from Calgary
Make it Manitoba
Departure: St. John’s, Newfoundland Arrival: Winnipeg, Manitoba
When the winter winds blow in Winnipeg, residents don’t hibernate; they celebrate! It’s easy to embrace the frosty season with long glides on the city’s river trails followed by a mug of hot chocolate inside. Cross-county ski in a city park, zoom down a toboggan hill or give ice climbing a try. Then take it inside for inspiring moments at the city’s world-class galleries and museums. Fill up on Winnipeg’s always-innovative culinary scene with tastes featuring Indigenous, Asian and Middle Eastern influences—just for starters!
February:
As low as $843 from St. John’s
As low as $175 from Vancouver
Rhythms of Cuba
Departure: Halifax, Nova Scotia Arrival: Varadero, Cuba
A day trip to Havana to take in the old-world architecture and lively culture is the perfect complement to a Varadero, Cuba beach getaway. (Photo by Alexander Kunze on Unsplash)
Achieve the perfect mix of cultural immersion and beach time with a trip to Varadero, where the Hicacos Peninsula offers over 20 kilometres of oceanfront resorts and hand-muddled mojitos. Dive deep into Cuban culture with a day trip to Havana to take in the old-world architecture or a culinary tour of Varadero. Book a tour to the beaches of Cayo Blanco, a deserted island just off the coast of Varadero. The catamaran ride stops for snorkeling and swimming along the way, perfect for working up an appetite for lunch and the open bar when you arrive. Visit the city of Matanzas, where the lively Parque La Libertad is gathering spot for locals with vendors selling irresistible pastries.
January:
As low as $685 from Halifax
As low as $353 from Toronto
Oaxaca, Mexico is a haven for surfers who come to ride the famed Mexican pipeline. (Photo by Juan Manuel Pastorino on Unsplash)
A flight to Huatulco followed by a taxi or bus ride gets you to the semi-sleepy city of Puerto Escondido on the Oaxacan Pacific coastline, where surfers gather to ride the Mexican Pipeline and vacationers soak up the guaranteed hot weather, even in January. Mercado Benito Juarez is a beautiful bustling market where you can sample pumpkin, bean and chili tamales and tuck into bouquets of fresh flowers. A float in the shimmering waters of Laguna de Manialtepec is the stuff of dreams. At select times of the year, the waters become phosphorescent thanks to an alga that lives in the lagoon. Darting fish and swimming humans activate the algae, sending streaks of light across the pond. Book an excursion with one of several operators in the area.
January:
As low as $860 from Edmonton
As low as $527 from Vancouver
Old Montreal and Beyond
Departure: Calgary, Alberta Arrival: Montreal, Quebec
Charming. Creative. Cultural. Call it what you will, but Montreal, at its heart, teaches you to enjoy life. Music and art festivals abound here, even in the winter, and smoked meat and Montreal-style bagels are a classic any time of year. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal for a taste of European architecture that dates back to the 1600s. Jump on a walking food tour at the massive Marché Jean-Talon for tasty bites and chats with local producers. For planet-conscious travellers, Montreal is committed to sustainable tourism and you can do your part by calculating the carbon footprint of your visit and offsetting it with a donation. There’s a handy app on their site along with plenty of tips for making your next visit a planet-friendly one.
February:
As low as $303 from Calgary
As low as $369 from Halifax
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