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Thinking of the Trip of a Lifetime? Think Thailand

December 29, 2025

With Air Canada’s year-round service from Vancouver to Bangkok, the journey to the Land of Smiles is as seamless and enjoyable as ever.

When the days are short and the air is crisp, few places feel more enticing than Thailand. A land where golden temples meet turquoise waters, where every meal is a revelation, and where the warmth of the people mirrors the climate itself. Yet Thailand’s appeal extends well beyond the winter months. From the vibrant energy of Bangkok to the quiet beaches of Krabi and the misty hills of Chiang Mai, this is a destination that shines in every season.

Now, travellers can experience it all with ease thanks to Air Canada’s year-round service between Vancouver and Bangkok, operating three times weekly. Originally introduced for the winter travel season, this route has quickly become a gateway for Canadians seeking authentic luxury, cultural discovery and the promise of sunshine when they need it most.

For discerning travellers and the advisors who guide them, that year-round availability opens a world of opportunity. Winter brings perfect weather for island escapes and cultural exploration, while spring and summer reward those who prefer fewer crowds, lush landscapes and exceptional value. With the ability to plan bespoke itineraries at any time of year, tailored experiences suit the pace of life and not the pages of a calendar.

Whenever they choose to take off, travellers can count on Air Canada’s hallmark comfort and attention to detail from the moment they depart. The experience begins on board with a choice of three cabin classes—Economy Class, Premium Economy and Air Canada Signature Class—each designed to enhance the journey in its own way.

In Economy Class, thoughtful touches such as complimentary meals and beverages, ergonomic seating and hundreds of hours of in-flight entertainment make the long-haul flight as enjoyable as the destination itself. Premium Economy offers additional space, upgraded dining and attentive service for travellers who value both practicality and comfort.

For those looking to arrive fully refreshed, Air Canada Signature Class delivers an unmatched combination of privacy, comfort and service. Lie-flat pods offer direct aisle access and restful sleep. Menus inspired by international flavours are paired with sommelier-curated wine selections, and exclusive amenities provide the finishing touches to an elevated experience. On the ground, Maple Leaf Lounge access, Priority Airport Services and streamlined connections ensure a seamless journey from check-in to arrival.

Upon landing, Bangkok greets visitors with its trademark blend of energy and elegance. A choice of curated itineraries balances urban vibrancy with restorative calm: Michelin-starred dining and riverside night markets, wellness retreats and island-hopping adventures, sacred temples and contemporary design hotels. The options are endless, and with Air Canada’s extensive network and interline partnerships, travellers can extend their journeys beyond Thailand to nearby must-see Asian destinations such as Cambodia, Vietnam and Singapore, each offering its own blend of history, culture and contemporary allure.

Thailand also offers endless opportunities for discovery for travellers seeking a more bespoke experience, whether that’s a private boat gliding across the limestone cliffs of Phang Nga Bay, a stay at a boutique hideaway in Chiang Rai surrounded by teak forests, or a spa weekend overlooking rice paddies where every detail is designed for renewal. From curated culinary tours to secluded wellness retreats, Thailand invites travellers to connect deeply with both place and self.

With Air Canada now operating year-round Vancouver to Bangkok flights, experiences that invite connection, curiosity and lasting memory are never out of reach. Whether escaping the chill of a Canadian winter or embracing Thailand’s quieter summer rhythm, travellers can count on reliable service, world-class comfort and the assurance of flying with Canada’s leading provider of international service: a trusted partner in crafting journeys as seamless as they are unforgettable.

Learn more and book your trip of a lifetime to Thailand at AirCanada.com.

10 Trends Shaping Luxury Travel in 2026, According to the Virtuoso Luxe Trend Report

December 29, 2025

From crowd-free itineraries to multigenerational adventures, the 2026 Virtuoso Luxe Trend Report reveals how high-end travel is becoming more personal, purposeful, and experience-driven.

In an era where luxury means more than fine hotels and first-class flights, the newly released 2026 Virtuoso Luxe Trend Report offers a window into how affluent travellers are planning to explore the world in the year ahead. Drawing on insights from more than 2,400 travel advisors across 58 countries within the Virtuoso network, the report looks beyond destinations alone, focusing instead on how people want to travel.

The big takeaway from the 2026 report is that luxury travel is becoming more personal and more intentional. Travellers are still willing to invest, but they want those investments to translate into experiences that feel meaningful, restorative, and genuinely memorable — not just impressive on paper.

Top Travel Trends to Watch

According to the report, ten key motivations are shaping how luxury travellers plan their journeys in the year ahead:

Family and Multigenerational Travel
Trips are increasingly designed to be shared, with families travelling together across generations to create lasting memories.
Active and Adventure Travel
From remote hikes to wildlife encounters, adventure remains central — especially when paired with comfort, expertise, and thoughtful pacing.
Cultural Immersion and Authenticity
Travellers are prioritizing experiences that offer real insight into local traditions, food, and communities.
Cruising and Expedition Voyages
Ocean, river, and expedition cruising continue to grow, with a stronger focus on meaningful time ashore.
Gastronomy and Spirits Travel
Food and drink are no longer just part of the journey — they’re often the reason for choosing a destination in the first place.

Together, these trends point to a larger shift: luxury travel is moving away from checklist tourism and toward experiences that feel story-worthy and deeply personal.

Where Travellers Are Heading in 2026

Italy, Japan, Greece, France, and Croatia continue to lead as the most-requested destinations, offering a mix of culture, cuisine, history, and scenery that appeals across traveller types. Canada also makes the top 10, reflecting growing interest in wide-open landscapes paired with vibrant urban culture.

At the same time, emerging destinations are gaining ground. Places like Iceland, Antarctica, and Morocco are attracting travellers looking for experiences that feel fresh, uncrowded, and emotionally resonant.

How Travellers Have Changed

Beyond destinations, the report highlights several mindset shifts shaping luxury travel today:

Crowd Control Is the New Luxury
Avoiding peak crowds has become a priority, with travellers opting for shoulder seasons, alternative routes, and quieter regions to preserve a sense of calm.

Experience Drives Inspiration
Film, television, and social media continue to influence where people want to go, sparking interest in destinations seen on screen and shared online.

All-Inclusive, Reimagined
Today’s all-inclusive experience is about freedom, not limitation — with private transfers, elevated dining, and bespoke excursions replacing the one-size-fits-all model.

Wellness Is Now Core to Travel
Wellness is no longer a niche category. From spa-focused escapes to nature-led retreats, restorative travel experiences are increasingly central, particularly for solo travellers and couples.

What ultimately emerges from the 2026 Virtuoso Luxe Trend Report isn’t a checklist of places to visit, but a broader philosophy. Luxury travel in 2026 is less about how many destinations you can fit into a year, and more about how deeply you experience each one.

Kensington’s Top Luxury Travel Destinations for 2026

December 29, 2025

Ancient civilizations, wild frontiers, and quietly compelling cities are rising to the top as luxury travellers rethink where they want to go in 2026.

Kensington has released its list of top trending destinations for 2026, drawing on internal booking data and insights from its global team of destination experts. Here’s a look at the destinations rising to the top – and why they matter right now.

Egypt (pictured above) is leading the list, with demand up more than 400 percent. The opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum has reignited interest, but the real draw is the depth of experience. Travellers are exploring the pyramids, Luxor, and Karnak alongside private Egyptologists who bring ancient history to life through stories rather than statistics. Add in private food tours and cooking classes, and Egypt becomes as sensory as it is monumental.

Kenya continues to be one of the most emotionally powerful trips travellers can take. Demand is up more than 60 percent year over year, driven by the timeless appeal of safari. From families to retirees, travellers are drawn to the Masai Mara and surrounding regions for close encounters with wildlife and vast, cinematic landscapes. Kensington is also seeing strong interest in pairing Kenya with Egypt – a single journey that spans millennia of history and wildly different worlds.

Bhutan remains one of the most transformative destinations on the planet, and interest is growing through Kensington Expeditions. These journeys focus on sustainability, cultural immersion, and personal enrichment. Days might include meditation, forest bathing, cycling through mountain valleys, or receiving a private blessing from local monks. It’s slow, intentional travel that leaves a lasting imprint.

Across Norway and the Nordic region, travellers are leaning into nature-forward experiences with private access. Think exploring dramatic fjords by Zodiac, diving into Copenhagen’s design and Viking history, or joining an Arctic expedition timed to witness a solar eclipse. These trips balance raw landscapes with thoughtful, expert-led planning.

In Asia, Vietnam is gaining serious momentum, with growth nearing 70 percent. Travellers are drawn to its energy – the food, the markets, the history, and the warmth of daily life. Vietnam offers cultural immersion that feels immediate and genuine, especially when experienced alongside knowledgeable local guides.

China is also seeing renewed interest, helped by new visa-free options for Canadian travellers. Demand is rising as travellers rediscover the country’s mix of ancient landmarks and modern cities, from Beijing and Xi’an to Shanghai, all made more accessible through expert-led itineraries.

Costa Rica, long loved for its biodiversity, is being rediscovered from the water. Private yacht journeys allow travellers to reach secluded beaches and marine-rich areas inaccessible by land. The yacht becomes a floating home base, with each day tailored to the guest – swimming, snorkelling, wildlife watching, or simply slowing down.

Peru continues to stand out as a “complete” destination. With demand doubling in the past year, it appeals thanks to direct flights, manageable travel times, and an incredible range of experiences – from Machu Picchu and Cusco to Lima’s world-class dining scene and the Amazon. It’s a destination that offers depth without complexity.

Closer to home, Toronto is stepping onto the global stage as a World Cup host city. Beyond the matches, Kensington is curating VIP experiences that showcase the city’s personality – private stadium transfers, helicopter flights over Lake Ontario, behind-the-scenes neighbourhood tours, and hard-to-get restaurant reservations.

Alaska, explored by luxury cruise, is also surging, with bookings up 125 percent. Sailing the Inside Passage offers an intimate way to experience glaciers, wildlife, and remote landscapes, often paired with pre- or post-cruise experiences in Western Canada like glacier flights or wine tours in British Columbia.

Finally, Croatia continues its rise as one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations. Whether explored by private yacht or on land, travellers are drawn to its island-hopping ease, historic cities like Dubrovnik, and vineyard-rich regions along the Dalmatian Coast – all without the crowds of Western Europe.

With travellers continuing to value authenticity, access, and ease, 2026 is shaping up to be a standout year for journeys that are not just beautiful, but deeply meaningful.

Escape Winter With These New Canadian Sun Routes

December 29, 2025

New direct flights are expanding winter escape options across the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America.

As winter settles in, Canadian travellers have more reasons than ever to look south. Over the past few months — and with a few more routes launching imminently — airlines have rolled out a wave of new sun destinations from Canadian airports, expanding nonstop access to beach favourites, cultural capitals and resort regions across Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America.

This winter’s flight network that goes well beyond the usual snowbird routes, with new options departing not just from Toronto and Montreal, but from cities like Ottawa and Halifax as well.

Porter Airlines Brings Sun Flying to Ottawa and Toronto

Porter Airlines has made one of the most notable moves this season, launching a slate of new winter sun routes that significantly expand leisure travel options from Eastern Canada.

From Ottawa, travellers now have direct access to several warm-weather destinations that previously required connections. New nonstop flights link the capital to Nassau and Grand Cayman in the Caribbean, as well as Cancún and Puerto Vallarta in Mexico and Liberia in Costa Rica — a gateway to the country’s Pacific beaches and national parks.

Porter has also added similar sun routes from Toronto Pearson, offering nonstop service to the same mix of Caribbean and Mexican destinations, along with Costa Rica. For travellers accustomed to long layovers or indirect routings, these flights represent a meaningful upgrade in convenience — particularly for winter getaways and family travel.

WestJet Expands Access to the Caribbean and Beyond

WestJet is also leaning into winter sun demand with new seasonal routes that broaden access to the Caribbean and Latin America. A new nonstop flight from Toronto to Havana opens the door to Cuba’s capital, pairing culture, history and nearby beach escapes in a single destination.

Out west, WestJet has expanded its Latin American footprint with new seasonal service from Calgary to destinations in Mexico and Central America, reinforcing the city’s role as a major western gateway for sun travel. These additions complement the airline’s already extensive winter schedule and reflect continued interest in destinations that offer more than just beach time.

Air Canada Grows Its Winter Sun Network

Air Canada has rounded out the season with a broad expansion of its winter schedule, adding new and seasonal routes across the Caribbean, Mexico and Latin America. Canadian travellers now have direct access to destinations such as Martinique, Jamaica and the Bahamas from a wider range of departure cities, along with new links to South American hubs and cultural centres.

This expanded network reflects a growing appetite for longer, experience-driven winter trips — whether that means pairing beaches with food and culture, or exploring destinations that feel less familiar than the classic all-inclusive circuit.

What This Means for Your Winter Travel

These new routes signal a shift in how Canadians travel south for the winter. More nonstop flights reduce travel time and friction, while a broader mix of destinations makes it easier to tailor trips around personal interests — from surf and wellness in Costa Rica to culture-forward city breaks in the Caribbean.

Maybe most notably, travellers departing from cities beyond Canada’s largest hubs now have better access to winter sun than ever before. For anyone looking to trade snow boots for sandals this season, the options have never looked brighter.

What Virgin Voyages’ Expanded Status Match Means for Travellers

December 16, 2025

Virgin Voyages is opening the door for millions of travellers to bring their airline, hotel or cruise loyalty perks with them on a first sailing.

Virgin Voyages has expanded its status match program, allowing travellers with existing elite status from a wide range of airlines, hotels and even other cruise lines to unlock onboard perks, without having sailed with Virgin before. It’s a small shift, but one that reflects how modern travellers actually move between brands.

Cruise loyalty programs typically reward repeat sailings over time, which can feel discouraging if you’re cruise-curious but already loyal to airlines or hotels. Status matching helps bridge that gap, letting travellers carry some of their past travel “credit” into a new experience.

If you hold status with a recognized loyalty program, you can apply to have that status matched to Virgin Voyages’ Sailing Club. Approved travellers receive a one-time access key that can be applied to a future cruise, unlocking a bundle of perks for that sailing. These extras aren’t flashy upgrades or suite guarantees, but they are the kinds of small comforts frequent travellers tend to appreciate, like daily specialty coffee, complimentary laundry, access to an onboard cocktail event and priority support from the Sailor Services team.

The matched perks apply to one sailing only, not permanently, and they don’t replace the usual loyalty tiers earned through repeat cruises. Still, for travellers who value convenience and recognition, it’s a meaningful nod.

Virgin Voyages’ expanded status match won’t change cruising overnight, but it does make it easier for airline and hotel loyalists to give cruising a try, with a few comforts baked in from the start.

This Iconic Okavango Lodge Just Reopened its Doors

December 1, 2025

Baines’ Lodge has reopened after a complete rebuild, with just six suites and front-row access to Botswana’s most spectacular wetland.

Botswana’s Okavango Delta has no shortage of remarkable safari stays, but one of its most intimate lodges has just re-entered the scene with a striking new identity. Baines’ Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary property, has reopened following a complete rebuild, taking inspiration from 19th-century explorer and artist Thomas Baines, whose watercolours first introduced the region’s landscapes to the world.

Perched on the floodplains of the Boro River at the edge of the Moremi Game Reserve, the redesigned lodge feels like an open-air gallery. Soft greens and papyrus tones echo the reeds outside; sand-washed neutrals mirror the Delta’s islands; and rich timbers ground each space in its setting. Instead of walls, columns frame the views, so the watery landscape becomes the artwork.

With only six suites and a maximum of four guests per vehicle, the emphasis is on slow, deeply personal safari experiences. The private concession allows activities you won’t find in the main park — walking safaris, night drives, and, when water levels permit, mokoro canoe excursions through the channels. Seasonal floods transform the area from May to September, drawing elephants, lions, leopards, wild dogs, and extraordinary birdlife into the surrounding mosaic of waterways.

Thoughtful touches nod to both exploration and craftsmanship: the Explorer’s Lounge comes kitted with microscopes and maps, woven ceilings created by South African artisans mimic the patterns of termite mounds, and reclaimed timber from the original lodge has been reimagined throughout the property. Private decks feature “star baths” — open-air tubs positioned for long soaks under the night sky — making the lodge especially appealing for honeymooners and romantics.

For travellers drawn to the Delta’s quieter corners, this rebuilt retreat offers something increasingly rare: a place where the landscapes take centre stage and the days unfold at nature’s pace.

Discover the Art of Travel with NexusTours

November 18, 2025

From eco-parks and rainforests to hidden bays and historic capitals, NexusTours connects Sunwing travellers to the region’s most memorable, culture-rich adventures.

Lounging poolside and sinking your toes into the sand are essential vacation pleasures, but if you’re craving more from your getaway, NexusTours helps you go beyond the ordinary. As Sunwing’s trusted in-destination partner, NexusTours connects more than two million Canadians each year to curated experiences across the Americas and the Caribbean—each one celebrating local culture, protecting the environment, and creating memories that last.

Xcaret & Xel-Há Exclusive – Riviera Maya, Mexico

Experience the essence of Mexico at two of its most iconic eco-parks. Explore underground rivers and cenotes at Xel-Há by day, then immerse yourself in the spectacular Xcaret México Espectacular by night — a celebration of Mexico’s vibrant culture and soul.

Havana Premium – Varadero, Cuba

Few places capture the heart like Havana. Glide through its streets in vintage convertibles, explore colonial plazas, and visit Hemingway’s favorite haunts. Guided by passionate locals, this tour transforms Cuba’s history, music, and artistry into a living story.

Rio Celeste Rainforest & Sloths – Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Where turquoise waters meet emerald canopies, adventure unfolds in Costa Rica’s Tenorio National Park. Hike to the mesmerizing Río Celeste waterfall, encounter sloths in their natural habitat, and indulge in a traditional Costa Rican meal. End with a sensory journey through coffee, cacao, and sugarcane, an ode to the Pura Vida lifestyle that defines Costa Rica.

Saona Island & Chavón River – Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Sail through paradise on route to the breathtaking island of Saona Island off the coast. Begin with a serene cruise along the lush Chavón River before heading to Saona Island, where you can bask in the turquoise waters, savour local Dominican flavours and unwind on pristine shores straight out of a postcard.

Ocean Outpost All-Access Pass – Montego Bay, Jamaica

At Chukka Ocean Outpost, adventure meets authenticity. Ride on horseback into the sea, zipline over sparkling waters, snorkel in a colourful coral reef, or drift downriver on a bamboo raft. Every moment of this action-packed excursion reveals the vibrant rhythm and natural beauty of Jamaica—vibrant, soulful, and full of life.

Balandra Bay & Hidden Beaches – Los Cabos, Mexico

Sail aboard a luxury catamaran through the turquoise expanse of Balandra Bay in Los Cabos. Pass the iconic Mushroom Rock, encounter playful sea lions, and discover secluded beaches where the desert cliffs embrace the sea. This perfect day in Baja provides an unforgettable fusion of serenity and spectacle.

Wherever your journey leads, from Caribbean shores to desert skies, NexusTours brings together innovation, passion, and local expertise to transform every trip into something truly spectacular. Contact your travel advisor to add a NexusTours experience to your Sunwing vacation package or visit nexustours.com.

Stylish Travel Essentials to Add to Your Wish List

November 18, 2025

Form meets function: These pieces prove that good design always travels well.

Blundstone Originals #2501 Boots

All-day comfort meets understated cool in these dark brown leather classics, with a pop of toffee in the side panels. Designed with a patented shock-protection system, they’re made for travellers who want one pair that works everywhere, from cobblestone streets to countryside trails.

— $240, blundstone.ca

Monos Expandable Carry-On

Canadian-designed and built to last, this sleek suitcase features an aerospace-grade shell that expands for extra packing space. Durable 360° spinner wheels and a thoughtfully organized interior make every journey a little smoother.

— $365, ca.monos.com

Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set

A lesson in understated luxury, these genuine pebbled-leather zip pouches keep smaller travel essentials in place. Use one for toiletries and the other for tech cords, accessories or supplements.

— $240, cuyana.com

CRAM Packing Cube Set

Vibrant and sturdy, this three-piece set from CRAM is made with premium recycled nylon, breathable mesh tops and heavy-duty YKK zippers. Try them once and you’ll wonder how you ever packed without them.

— $85, cramtravel.com

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen)

These noise-cancelling headphones combine immersive sound with a design-forward, sculptural silhouette. They’re perfect for tuning out airplane hums or zoning into a favourite podcast mid-flight.

— $599, bose.ca

Lunya Washable Silk Sleep Mask

For the hotel room or red-eye flight, Lunya’s washable silk sleep mask is a sensory upgrade—breathable, soft and indulgent. Slip it on and even jet lag feels a little more luxurious.

— $90, lunya.co

BÉIS Passport & Luggage Tag Set

This chic trio includes a passport holder with a hidden AirTag pocket, a matching luggage tag and a clear pouch for liquids or cords, all crafted with supple yet durable vegan leather.
— $65, ca.beistravel.com

Japan’s Coolest Island Escape

November 4, 2025

The island of Hokkaido is a wonderland of snow-dusted landscapes, crystal-clear lakes and rich traditions.

Hokkaido feels like a seasonal snow globe. In the warmer months, brightly coloured flowers blanket rolling hills, while autumn’s rich tones sweep across mountain towns. Come winter, snow glistens on the water, casting a magic that’s hard to replicate.

The country’s northernmost island is also its least developed — though far from barren. Sapporo, home to the beer of the same name, is Hokkaido’s most famous city, where visitors can explore the brewery’s free museum and learn about Japan’s beer-making history dating back to 1876. It’s also the ancestral home of the Indigenous Ainu people, whose culture centres on living in harmony with the land. The result is a natural retreat, highlighted by the deep-blue, crystalline waters of Lake Shikotsu, among the clearest in Japan. Enjoy it warmed or chilled — either way, it’s a perfect après-soak indulgence.

In winter, the lake — tucked inside Shikotsu-Toya National Park — is ringed by towering ice sculptures, formed by spraying and freezing its own waters. The annual Lake Shikotsu Ice Festival, usually held in February, features an ice slide, skating (in boots or skates), horse rides for children, and dips in traditional Japanese onsen (hot springs).

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore. Hokkaido offers an impressive network of hiking trails, from mountain loops to snowshoe-friendly paths. Shiretoko National Park, Akan-Mashu National Park, and Daisetsuzan National Park reward visitors with sweeping wildlife and wilderness views. In Sapporo, the Olympic Museum — a legacy of the 1972 Winter Games — invites guests to trek up the ski hill for panoramic city vistas. Curated itineraries from companies like Remote Lands combine skiing in the Japanese Alps, onsen tours in Noboribetsu, historic streets in Hakodate (one of Hokkaido’s oldest cities), stargazing under clear night skies, and more experiences that evoke a profound sense of peace.

For a stay that mirrors the snow globe effect, Lake Shikotsu Tsuruga Besso Ao no Za hotel pairs traditional Japanese hospitality with sweeping lake views. The hotel offers a kaiseki dining experience — multiple chef-driven courses showcasing locally sourced, artistically plated dishes — and a teppanyaki restaurant serving rice, vegetables, meat and abundant seafood. Hokkaido’s scallops and salmon are highlights, alongside crab and prawns. Don’t miss the wagyu beef, paired perfectly with local sake.

Japan has no shortage of postcard-perfect views, but few match the stillness of Hokkaido under a winter sky. And with the island just 90 minutes by flight from Tokyo, its wild beauty is closer than you think.

3 WAYS TO WARM UP IN HOKKAIDO

Soak in an onsen
Slip into restorative hot springs in Noboribetsu — famous for its varied, mineral-rich waters born from volcanic hell-valley — or in scenic Jōzankei nestled in Shikotsu-Toya National Park.

Tuck into a bowl of Sapporo miso ramen
Hokkaido’s signature miso ramen delivers rich, savoury broth with hearty toppings like butter, corn, chashu pork, bean sprouts — and sometimes local seafood — for the ultimate winter comfort.

Sip local sake
Hokkaido’s sake breweries craft crisp and pure pours using mountain spring water, from the Daisetsuzan range to local rivers.

Step Inside Black Lagoon, the Halloween Bar Popping up Across Canada

October 20, 2025

From Toronto to Vancouver, this immersive experience invites guests to don their costumes, raise a glass, and summon a spirit (or two).

If your idea of Halloween involves more mezcal than monsters, the Black Lagoon pop-up bar s might be your perfect haunt. What began as a goth-horror cocktail concept dreamed up by bartenders Erin Hayes and Kelsey Ramage has grown into a North American phenomenon — part theatre, part mixology, and entirely spooky.

Now returning to Canada for another season, Black Lagoon transforms ordinary bars into occult playgrounds draped in cobwebs, red light and rock-and-roll attitude. Each location features an original menu of fiendishly named cocktails — from Forever Midnight to Nocturna Colada — served by bartenders who look ready to headline a metal show.

At The Walrus Pub & Beer Hall, Toronto’s subterranean Black Lagoon kicks off the festivities with all the eerie trimmings: rubber severed heads dangling from the ceiling, a horror-film soundtrack (think Werewolves of London, Boris the Spider, and Thriller), and a crowd that embraces the dress-code suggestion: “Come as your spookiest self.”

“We’re expanding the Halloween experience,” says Jas Bowles, part of the Toronto team. Meanwhile, Bowles’ colleague Veronica Cox says bar visitors shouldn’t be nervous about ordering a Widow Maker, despite its foreboding name. “It was the only drink created for Black Lagoon that doesn’t have alcohol, she notes. “It sounds lethal, but it’s the one that’s going to spare you a hangover in the morning.”

A Cross-Canada Haunting

This year, Black Lagoon spreads its dark wings across the country. Here’s where you can raise the dead — or at least your glass:

Toronto, ON – The Walrus Pub & Beer Hall (Oct 1 – Nov 2)
Vancouver, BC – Butcher & Bullock (Oct 1 – Nov 2)
Whistler, BC – The Raven Room (Oct 3 – Nov 2)
Calgary, AB – Charlie’s Watch Repair (Oct 1 – Nov 1)
Edmonton, AB – Dolly’s Cocktails (Oct 1 – Nov 2)
Ottawa, ON – The Standard Tavern (Oct 13 – 31)

Each city adds its own flair, but the spirit remains the same: a celebration of horror culture through handcrafted drinks and immersive design.