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Five post-pandemic travel trends you’ll see more of this year

January 17, 2022 No Comments

As we navigate our “new normal”, it’s obvious that so much has changed, including travel.

Here are five travel trends to watch in 2022.

Romantic travel

Hugely popular prior to the pandemic, destination weddings are expected to make a significant comeback, as countries around the world continue their trajectory towards a high vaccination rate. Many couples were forced to postpone their big day when countries closed their borders and cracked down on visitor arrivals, and as a result, some of these weddings are more than two years in the making! While destination weddings tended to be on the smaller side, now, most international wedding venues can accommodate anywhere from 50 to 250 guests and provide a selection of both indoor and outdoor venue options.

Revenge travel

After two years of staying home, travellers are now likely willing to pay more for the experience they want. Frequent travellers who were unable to travel as a result of COVID-19 related travel restrictions may be eager to splurge on luxurious experiences that include everything from boutique hotels, gourmet dining, and one-of-a-kind experiences. Richard Villeneuve, president of travel agency Voyages en Direct, says that price is no longer the most important factor driving bookings and his clients have a budget that’s 25-35 per cent more than they would have invested in holidays prior to the pandemic. After not travelling for such a lengthy period of time, those who can finally hop on a plane are eager to make the trip count!

Bubble travel

While group travel was often a popular choice, “bubble travel” is predicted to be the new way to travel with friends and family. Group travel could mean you are travelling with strangers from all over the world, but bubble travel ensures you’re with people you know, and who were likely in your social circles throughout the course of the pandemic.

Workation travel

In most workplaces, what started as a work-from-home model has evolved into a “work from anywhere” model. So long as an employee has the tools required to do their job appropriately, like a laptop, cell phone, and reliable internet connection, it really doesn’t matter if you’re working from your house in North America, or from a resort down in the Caribbean. Workation-style travel also allows employees to enjoy a destination without using up all of their vacation days, which are typically 10-15 per year.

Wellness travel

Prioritizing one’s mental health and practicing self-care has become increasingly important during the pandemic, especially in countries who continue to practice tough restrictions, lockdowns, and other COVID-19 health and safety protocols. In 2022, expect to see more vacations centred around personal wellbeing— think yoga retreats, solo travel, spa retreats, and even silent retreats.

Here’s a list of all the places Canadians can travel to without a COVID test

January 10, 2022 No Comments

For the better half of 2021, Canadians faced severe travel restrictions as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. While certain measures, like the mandatory three-day quarantine upon re-entry to Canada, have been lifted, severe restrictions remain in place.

Many countries now require a negative PCR test, proof of vaccination, or both, to enter. Effective October 30, 2021, the government of Canada enacted a mandatory vaccination requirement for travel within and to depart Canada, which remains in place for all Canadians, with only some exceptions to the rule.

For those who are seeking an escape to a destination that has not yet mandated proof of a negative PCR test, here are five places to consider.

Mexico

Mexico requires a tourist card from any visitors to the country, but this is a practice that began well before the pandemic. Other than this documentation, there are no additional COVID-19 documents required for your stay, and testing and quarantine upon arrival is not mandatory. Typically, the airline you’re flying on will hand out the tourist card (often referred to as the immigration form) and you can fill it out prior to landing. Once you’ve landed, simply show the card to the customs officer along with your passport. Make sure you keep your tourist card safe and secure for the duration of your stay–a lost tourist card will result in a fine, and could cause problems during your departure from the country.

For the most up-to-date information on entry to Mexico, click here.

Colombia

International travellers, including Canadians, are not required to submit a negative PCR test to gain entry to Colombia. However, you must fill out the mandatory Check-Mig registration form at least 24 hours prior to your flight. Face masks and additional health and safety measures remain in place throughout the country, and visitors are expected to follow all health and safety guidelines during their stay.

For the most up-to-date information on entry to Colombia, click here.

Costa Rica

The Government of Costa Rica does not require tourists entering by air, land or sea to present a negative COVID-19 test, nor quarantine upon arrival. However, all tourists are expected to abide by health and safety guidelines that have been put in place. All visitors must complete the digital form called Health Pass which can be accessed here. Vaccinated tourists must also attach their vaccination certificate to the Health Pass, and are required to provide proof of travel insurance with coverage for a minimum of five days during the duration of their stay.

For the most up-to-date information on entry to Costa Rica, click here.

Cuba

Like Mexico, Cuba has a mandatory tourist card that’s required for entry and is handed out by the airline. A negative PCR test is not required for vaccinated travellers, and all Health Canada approved vaccines and mixed vaccines are accepted. Children under the age of 12 are not required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test. Upon departure from Cuba, Canadians can pay a fee of $30 USD to receive the mandatory PCR test that is required to re-enter Canada.

For the most up-to-date information on entry to Cuba, click here.

Dominican Republic

Canadians are among the list of countries who do not need to present a negative COVID-19 test to gain entry to the Dominican Republic. However, random aleatory breath testing is in place upon arrival at select ports, which could apply to Canadians who are exempt from Canada’s vaccination rule. While proof of vaccination is not checked by officials upon arrival, those who wish to leave designated hotels and resorts affiliated with the Ministry of Tourism must show proof of complete vaccination (two valid doses) to enter bars, restaurants, and other facilities on the island.

For the most up-to-date information on entry to the Dominican Republic, click here.

Holiday Gift Guide

November 12, 2021 No Comments

1. COCKTAIL KIT
Impress and treat your guests with a professionally handmade cocktail from The Cocktail Box Co. Choose from six classic on-the-go cocktails to be enjoyed from anywhere, including the citrusy Moscow Mule or the smoky signature Old Fashioned. Each cocktail kit serves six and features high-end organic ingredients, a bartender’s spoon and muddler, three cocktail picks, as well as a hand-knit cocktail napkin. Alcohol sold separately. $24.99.
(thecocktailboxco.com/ca/ )

2. LUGGAGE
Stuck choosing between checking a bag or cramming everything into a carryon? Away makes it easy, with their newest piece of luggage, The
Bigger Carry-On. Available in nine sophisticated colours, including Coast, Sand, and Asphalt, this smart suitcase features a durable polycarbonate hard shell and 360° spinner wheels, as well as a hidden interior laundry bag. There’s also a built-in TSA-approved USB charger which makes it easy
to stay connected on-the-go. $325-$355.
(awaytravel.com)

3. SANITIZER
My Paume is a luxurious, eco-friendly hand sanitizer that not only wards off harmful germs, but nourishes and protects skin as well — thanks to a unique blend of essential oils like lemon, cedar, citrus, rosemary, and lavender, and
premium plant-based emollients like certified organic aloe vera powder, and 69% ethyl alcohol. The Essentials Kit from My Paume features a refillable pump that can hold 8 oz of product, a 170 oz refillable bag, and a 30 oz
refillable bag (perfect for the car or the plane), for a total of 500 applications. All of the packaging from My Paume is crafted from biodegradable materials or recycled plastic. $72.
(mypaume.com)

4. ESPRESSO MACHINE
De’Longhi’s dishwasher-safe Dinamica LatteCrema automatic coffee and espresso machine features a one-touch LCD display that can create 18 unique espressos and specialty coffees at the touch of a button. An included milk frother creates the perfect foam every time, and the machine’s dual thermoblock system lets you create iced versions of your favourite lattes, cappuccinos, and coffees. There’s also a built-in conical Burr grinder that features 13 settings to freshly grind a variety of coffee and espresso beans. $1,299.95.
(delonghi.com)

5. ELECTRIC WINE OPENER
Tired of getting the cork stuck halfway? Rabbit, a leading maker of wine accessories and barware, has developed an electric wine opener with a non-stick worm that removes stubborn corks with ease at the touch of a button.
Finished in soft navy matte and satin-finished champagne steel that looks great on any kitchen counter, the Rabbit also comes with two wine stoppers. $109.95.
(crateandbarrel.ca)

6. BED SHEETS
Cold winter nights call for a cozy sleep. Proudly Canadian, these wrinkle-free sheets from Benji offer the ultra-soft luxurious feel of 1,500 threads per square inch, without the extravagant price tag. Made from high-quality double-brushed microfiber that’s both breathable and moisture-resistant,
these sheets are also environmentally-certified and free of harmful fibers or contaminants, making them the perfect pick for those with allergies or sensitive skin. Benji offers a variety of colours and patterns to choose from,
and also sells duvets, pillowcases, and comforter sets all made from the same soft fabric. $95.
(benjisleep.com)

7. CARD GAME
The holidays are meant for spending time with loved ones. “Hygge” is a Danish word that refers to a feeling of togetherness, which is why The Hygge Game is the perfect gift to unbox after dinner. With more than 300 thought-provoking, inspirational, and family-friendly questions, The Hygge Game aims to spark conversation and meaningful discussion based on a recollection of memories or moments, big and small. The Hygge Game is suitable for ages 14 and up and requires two or more players. $25.40.
(amazon.ca)

8. SKI PACK
Hit the slopes in style over the holidays with a stylish new ski pack from Mountain Hardware. The Powabunga was designed for those who enjoy backcountry skiing. Made from a durable, super bomber nylon fabric, it includes a padded hip belt that is attached at multiple lash points to allow for free movement, including while standing. The tuckable front helmet hammock allows for the helmet to be stowed below the pack, giving unobstructed access to the large-zip front navy tool pocket. $260.
(mountainhardwear.ca)

9. SLIPPERS
Perfect for the cottage or at home, L.L. Bean’s Wicked Good Moccasins are constructed from superior sheepskin and lined with cozy shearling that keeps feet warm and dry. Featuring rawhide laces, a contoured memory foam footbed, and also a durable outer sole, these moccasins can also be worn outside. Available in women’s from sizes 5 to 11, and men’s in sizes 7 to 14. $129.
(llbean.ca)

10. IPHONE 13 PRO
The camera is the focus on the all-new iPhone 13 Pro. Made from surgical-grade stainless steel and coated in a ceramic shield, this is Apple’s most advanced camera phone to date, with next-level hardware and superintelligent built-in software and a lens that can focus as close as two centimetres. Macro video capabilities that support time lapse and slow motion are also possible. Perfect for low light conditions, the iPhone 13 Pro brings night photography to life, with an even wider aperture, a faster sensor and all-new autofocus. It’s available in four trendy colours, including Sierra Blue, Graphite, Silver, or Gold. $1,399.
(apple.com)

Story by Christine Hogg

Planning the perfect Girls Getaway

July 8, 2021 No Comments

It’s been literally forever since you’ve caught up with your besties over Mai Tais or manicures, hasn’t it? Well, now’s the time to start planning your reunion tour! Whether your girl group is into chilling, shopping, adventuring, eating, drinking, or a little bit of everything – let this list of luxurious locales inspire your next long weekend away with the ladies.

PALM SPRINGS

Pools and palm trees, what more does a girl need? Palm Springs is an oasis of quirk, kitsch, and cool in the California desert. Take a self-guided tour of some of PS’s most photogenic and colourful front doors. Sip on a famous date milkshake from the State Fare Bar + Kitchen at the Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage. And don’t forget to pack a fun floaty for that perfect pool pic.

Photo by Visitgreaterpalmsprings.com

PORTO

Calling all food and wine lovers! Perched on the Douro River, Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city and the world’s most famous producer of Port wine. Become a connoisseur with endless options for Port tastings and tours. Explore the labyrinthine cobbled streets of the Ribeira District, revel in the vibrant nightlife, and eat to your heart’s content with local dishes like Bacalhau, cod prepared every which way; Francesinha, a baked sandwich; and Queijo da Serra da Estrela, a regional cheese.

DUBLIN

Of course, when visiting the Irish capital you have to hit the highlights like Temple Bar, Trinity College, and the Guinness Storehouse. But Dublin has a glamorous side too! Stroll Henry Street with its chic boutiques, shops, and Arnotts department store. Spend the day luxuriating at The Shelbourne Hotel’s spa before meeting for a lavish afternoon tea at The Merrion, or climb aboard the Vintage Tea Tour for a sweet ride that combines a guided tour of the city with high tea. At night, you can’t miss the live music and pub culture that Dublin is known for – Sláinte!

Story by Ashley Rochefort

Gift Guide

November 24, 2020

From trinkets to treasures, make this season meaningful with gorgeous gifts from artisans, artists, makers, and designers from around the country…

1. HANDCRAFTED SOAPS Organic, sustainable, and handcrafted in small batches using ingredients local to Vancouver Island, there’s nothing we don’t love about Tofino Soap Company’s delicate soaps, candles, and accessories. (Starting at $13) tofinosoapcompany.com

2. COUNTERTOP COMPOST BIN Stylish, discreet, and available exclusively at Toronto retailer Hopson Grace, this handsomely hand-crafted Ontario walnut compost bin, with removable stainless steel insert, is perfect for that special someone who has it all. ($150) hopsongrace.com

3. CHOCOLATE BONBONS Named one of the top 10 chocolatiers in North America, Sweet Lollapalooza, based in Edmonton, hand-crafts chocolate confections using some of the rarest cocoa beans on earth. The popular assortment of 36 memorable morsels includes flavours like Burnt Butter Caramel, Iceberg Mint, and Raspberry Noir. ($80) sweetlollapalooza.com

4. FINE ART Specializing in eclectic Canadian art-work, the Auburn Gallery’s collection includes paintings, photography, ceramics, sculpture, bronzes, fibre art, and handcrafted jewellry. Though located in Gravenhurst, the heart of Muskoka, featured artists range from coast to coast. (prices vary) auburngalleryoffineart.ca

5. NECKLACE Thoughtfully designed and sustainably produced, the effortlessly elegant Hera necklace features a single freshwater pearl perched in an organic oval pendant. Allison Asis, the artist behind Cadette Jewelry, crafts each piece by hand in her Toronto studio. ($790) cadettejewelry.com

6. RAINCOAT Every strong woman needs a strong raincoat. Designed with meticulous attention to detail and quality in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Mernini’s flattering A-line raincoat – available in caramel or grey and sizes XS-XXL – is built to withstand any storm. ($279) mernini.com

7. BIRCH SYRUP So named for its location in northern Quebec, Escuminac is an award-winning producer of maple syrup. But for the foodie on your list, try their rare Birch Syrup. It takes 160 litres of sap to produce just one litre of the stuff. Smooth and strong, it’s a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness, not unlike a quality balsamic vinegar. ($64.95) escuminac.com

8. HANDBAGS The CAP collection by Karen Wilson Handbags is inspired by her grandfather’s time in WWII when soldiers travelled overseas each carrying a canvas bag with handwritten names, numbers, and markings that told their individual stories. Karen’s vintage inspired bags are designed and handcrafted in Rockwood, Ontario, from elegant textiles, hand-waxed canvas, leather, and recycled fur. ($360) karenwilson.ca

9. PLATTER SET The Art Gallery of Ontario has a treasure trove of gifts. Like this set of Namwayut Recycled Glass Platters made by Kwakwaka’wakw-Tlingit artist Corrine Hunt, who designed the 2010 Olympic medals. Practical and beautiful, the lightweight serveware features Northwest Native forms and are great for everyday entertaining. ($94) ago.ca

10. MUKLUKS The stunning Metis Mukluk, with its signature beaded floral pattern, is made to carry you through winter in warmth and style. Based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Indigenous-owned Manitobah Mukluks, brings you the original winter boot of Canada ($359.99) manitobah.ca

WORKING from HOME

November 23, 2020

Almost 40% of Canada’s workforce is currently working from home, that means no commuting, no mind-numbing meetings, and no stuffy business suits. The only thing that could make working from home more dreamy? Working from a sunny, sandy beach in the Caribbean. But before you pack your bags, each country has different entry requirements, quarantine protocols, health and safety regulations, application processes, fees, and length of stay maximums, so it’s important to do your research in order to choose the right country to suit your WFH style. Here are a few of our favourites…

ANGUILLA

Trade in your humdrum home office and work from one of Anguilla’s 33 white-sand beaches this winter. Visit IvisitAnguilla.com for details on local telecom companies, schooling, banking, shipping of personal effects, and a list of resorts providing access to conference rooms, business centres, and state of the art technology. The Anguilla Tourist Board will also connect you with a dedicated concierge to guide you through the application process and fees.

BARBADOS

BAHAMAS

The one who started it all. Launched in July, Barbados was the first Caribbean nation to offer special visas for remote workers, encouraging people to move their home office to paradise by relocating to Barbados for up to a year. Want to be Bajan for a year? Take the first step by visiting Barbadoswelcomestamp.bb.

Work from one of Bahamas’ prettiest pool decks at Nassau’s famous Graycliff Hotel & Restaurant. Enjoy Graycliff’s elegant suites, daily continental breakfast, nightly turn down service, and high-speed internet throughout the property. Stay a minimum of 14 nights to qualify for savings of 50%. For details on Graycliff’s Workation Special and links to government protocols, visit Graycliff.com/seasonal-specials.

ANTIGUA & BARBUDA

Antigua and Barbuda’s Nomad Digital Residence (NDR) Program allows you to work safely from the twin-island paradise for as long as two years with the new NDR visa. Those choosing Antigua and Barbuda can also benefit from its no personal income tax status. Find out more at antiguanomadresidence.com.

If you’re looking for the finest in luxury hotels, check out Curtain Bluff’s (curtainbluff.com) extended stay packages developed to complement the NDR Program.

ST. BARTHS

Take quarantine to the next level at one of WIMCO’s (wimco.com) private villas in St. Barths. WIMCO also has properties in the Virgin Islands, Turks & Caicos, and more. Stay up to 90 days and get used to jumping in the sea to celebrate the end of a conference call.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Casa de Campo (casadecampo.com.do), a private gated community in the Dominican Republic, is the perfect spot to work from home this winter. After work, hit the beach, get in a round of golf, or savour the world-class cuisine. All long-term guests will enjoy a four-passenger golf cart, complimentary wifi and access to the business centre, housekeeping twice per week, and15% discount on food, spa, and laundry services.

Story by ASHLEY ROCHEFORT

The World’s 17 Best Beaches

July 24, 2019 No Comments

From remote stretches of sand in far-flung locales to the ever-popular Caribbean getaways, there is a bounty of spectacular places for travellers to soak up the sun, whether they seek white, pink or even black sand. So, where should you plan your beach escape for next winter? Why not try one of the top 17 beaches in the world as voted by the experts, Canadian travel agents.

Have Family, Will Travel

January 28, 2019 No Comments

Behind the scenes with Workin’ Moms Star Catherine Reitman

Catherine Reitman is both literally and figuratively a workin’ mom. Known on-screen for her starring role as Kate Foster, the real life mother of two sons is also the creator, executive producer and writer of the acclaimed original comedy series Workin’ Moms, which is filmed in Toronto. As season three of the International Emmy–nominated show gears up to hit the air Tuesday nights on CBC starting Jan. 8, the Toronto transplant shares some memorable family travel experiences, like hiking New Zealand with her husband, producing partner and Workin’ Moms co-star, Philip Sternberg, and getting covered in vomit
while touching down in Costa Rica.

What do you never leave home without?
My phone and my kindle.

Carry-on or checked bag?
Anything under 10 days, I attempt a carry-on.

Favourite city or country to travel to?
Tokyo, Japan.

What’s still on your bucket list?
I’m very curious about exploring more of Asia. That’s next on my to-do list.

Where did you go for your honeymoon?
The Amalfi Coast. My digestive tract is still healing.

Best tip for surviving family travel?
Don’t bring them.

Best meal you’ve had on the road?
I ate pizza in a basement in Rome that I still fantasize about.

Do you have a travel ritual?
I never over-caffeinate before a flight.

What’s a memorable thing that’s happened to you while travelling?
My son managed to vomit on every private part I have while we were landing in Costa Rica. Silver lining,
they felt so sorry for me, they allowed me to skip the line at customs.

What’s your most adventurous/challenging travel experience to date?
My husband and I travelled to New Zealand and hiked mountains we were sure would kill us.

How often do you travel? Has that changed with kids and a busy work schedule?
We’re fortunate enough to still be able to travel frequently, both with and without children. However,
with has been more memorable.

By Ann Ruppenstein