The US
The US is (unsurprisingly) among Canadians’ favorite destinations, due to its proximity and accessibility, as well as the wide range of entertainment and natural landscapes it offers. From amazing theme parks to thriving cities like New York and Chicago, the US offers a diverse range of experiences to suit every taste. Traveling from Canada to the US is quite straightforward, and the easiest way to do so is by plane, with the trip being relatively short. For example, it only takes 1 hour and 40 minutes to get from Toronto to New York. However, it’s also possible to travel from Canada to the US by car, which appeals to many Canadians! Luckily, many US towns aren’t even far driving-distance-wise, so they’re perfect for a weekend getaway. Burlington, for instance, is only a few hours’ drive away from Montreal, and if you don’t have a driver’s license, you can take the bus instead.
The US is home to a ton of activities, so you won’t get bored, no matter where you choose to go. You can explore the Grand Canyon, spot volcanoes in Hawai’i, visit the national parks of the USA, or let your inner child out as you visit Walt Disney World. No matter what you’re craving, the US has it all!
Mexico
It would be an understatement to say that Canadians love Mexico – they just can’t get enough of its stunning beaches and warm weather and continue to flock there every year for their vacations. The country offers a wealth of exciting experiences, from resorts to bustling cities, and it’s also very affordable, which only adds to the overall experience. And sure, lounging on the beach is great, but there are lots of other exciting things to do here. For example,
Mexico is home to numerous Mayan ruins, which vary in popularity and size, and are open to exploration. The Mayan ruins of Palenque, nestled in a jungle, offer a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience that will stay in your heart forever. If you’re up for an adventure, you can dive with bull sharks in Playa del Carmen (yes, without a cage – and yes, it’s completely safe!). Obviously, you’ll want to stay connected during your trip (so you can seamlessly share pictures with your friends and navigate the country easily), so consider getting a travel eSIM for Mexico before you go. This way, you will have data at your fingertips, without the hassle of swapping SIM cards.
Italy
Canadians love Italy for its combination of art, history, stunning landscapes, and delicious food, as well as its allure of “La Dolce Vita” – the sweet life. The country is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering numerous historical landmarks, cathedrals, ancient ruins, and Renaissance masterpieces. Not to mention, the coastal villages and charming lakeside areas will take your breath away.
Depending on what you’re expecting from your trip, there are lots of things to do in Italy. For example, you can start your trip in Rome, which is packed with stunning piazzas, ancient ruins, and food that will delight your taste buds. If, however, you’d love a wine tasting experience instead, and exploring medieval towns, look no further than Tuscany, which is a dream come to life, and will offer you a memorable experience – but make sure you rent a car to have the freedom to explore hilltop towns, and find hidden gem restaurants that would be hard to reach otherwise. Or, maybe you dream of soaking up the sun on a pebbled beach, and if that’s the case, you should definitely book your flight to the Amalfi Coast, which is pure magic, with colorful cascading villages and dramatic cliffs. Italy has something for everyone, so take some time to think about what kind of adventure you desire and plan your trip accordingly.
Cuba
Cuba is among the top travel destinations for Canadians, and for good reason, as the country offers beautiful and affordable beaches, and it’s also very welcoming and familiar. Additionally, it is very safe, making it an ideal choice for solo travelers seeking adventure. Many travelers marvel as soon as they arrive in Cuba for the first time, because, in addition to the warmth that the Cuban people radiate, they also discover that this stunning island is full of unique traditions, including coffee, cuisine, and traditional music.
There are lots of things to do in Cuba, from getting lost in Old Havana to relaxing on the beach. Tapping into the live music scene offers a memorable experience, and this is particularly great if you’re up for great vibes and great drinks during your stay in Cuba. If you love snorkeling, you’ll be delighted to know that Cuba’s underwater world is breathtaking, with pristine coral reefs and aquamarine seas to marvel at. The world-class Jardines de la Reina is a top snorkeling destination – although expensive, it’s definitely worth it. However, we recommend bringing your own gear, as the local equipment is not always of the best quality, and it’s always good to be prepared.
Ready for your next adventure?
No matter the type of getaway you’re dreaming of, there’s a destination to suit every type of traveler, whether you want to soak up the sun in Mexico or enjoy the popular theme parks of the US. Use this list as inspiration when planning your next adventure – the world is waiting for you to explore it, so pack your bags and go make some great memories!
