Toulouse Air Canada

Fall in Toulouse is a Timeless Treasure

November 4, 2025

While cozying up indoors has its appeal in autumn, exploring the timeless charm of Toulouse is a journey worth taking.

Nestled in the heart of southwestern France, “La Ville Rose” offers an autumn experience that’s rich in colour, culture, and culinary delight. With Air Canada’s year-round flights departing up to five times weekly from Montréal, getting there is as smooth as a sip of French wine.

GOLDEN EVENINGS IN BUZZING BISTROS

As the air turns crisp and leaves fall, Toulouse’s bistros and wine bars glow with warmth and energy. Locals linger over long meals and visitors are always invited to join the conversation. Whether it’s with a robust red from nearby Gaillac or a seasonal dish by candlelight, the city’s spirit is irresistible. 

AUTUMN FLAVOURS, À LA FRANÇAISE

Fall in Toulouse is a feast for the senses. Travellers can indulge in the region’s signature cassoulet or try garbure, a rustic soup brimming with garden vegetables and cured meats. From flaky pastries to earthy cheeses, every bite reflects the bounty of the season and the soul of southern French tradition.

Toulouse
Toulouse France

HISTORY IN EVERY STONE

With roots stretching back to Roman times, Toulouse is a city where history whispers from every corner. Travellers take time out to stroll through the medieval streets of the Old Quarter, admire the grandeur of the Capitole de Toulouse, or visit the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, one of Europe’s largest Romanesque churches.

ON THE MOVE IN TOULOUSE

For active travellers eager to explore beyond the ordinary, Toulouse offers an invigorating escape. With its proximity to the Pyrenees mountain range, the city serves as a gateway to scenic hiking trails that wind through lush valleys and rugged peaks, while the Canal du Midi invites cyclists to cruise along its tranquil, tree-lined paths.

MORE COMFORT, MORE CHOICE

Escaping happens in total comfort with three cabin classes for travellers to choose from: 

  • Economy Class, featuring endless in-seat entertainment, along with complimentary wines, spirits and meals.
  • Premium Economy, offering extra legroom, enhanced meal service and elevated comfort.
  • Air Canada Signature Class, the highest level of luxury, featuring lie-flat seats, a premium dining experience and exclusive access to our Maple Leaf Lounge, so travellers can arrive rested and ready to explore.

Toulouse in the fall is an invitation to slow down and savour every moment. And with convenient flights from Montréal, the city’s charm is just a journey away.

Learn more and book your fall getaway to Toulouse at aircanada.com.

Tauck is launching two new river boats in France for 2026

October 25, 2024

Tauck has announced that two new ships will be joining the company’s fleet of award-winning riverboats in 2026.

The two ships, which have not yet been named, will launch in spring 2026 following construction next year in Serbia and The Netherlands.

The two newbuilds include a 135-meter vessel that will sail on Tauck itineraries along the Rhone. Accommodating a maximum of just 130 guests in sixty-eight cabins, the 135-meter ship will boast twenty-two spacious 300-sq. ft. suites on its upper (Diamond) deck, thirty-four roomy 225-sq. ft. cabins primarily on the middle (Ruby) deck, and twelve 180-sq. ft. Category 1 cabins on the lower (Emerald) deck.

A slightly smaller (125-meter) sister ship will host up to 124 guests along the River Seine, with accommodations including twenty 300-sq. ft. suites on its Diamond Deck, thirty 225-sq. ft. cabins (mainly on the Ruby Deck), and twelve 180-sq. ft. Category 1 cabins on the Emerald Deck. At 180-sq. ft., the Category 1 cabins on both newbuilds will be 20% larger than the Category 1 cabins found on Tauck’s other riverboats.

In keeping with Tauck’s tradition of welcoming solo travelers, all Category 1 cabins on the new ships will have the single supplement waived on every sailing.

In addition, Tauck opened its 2026 river cruises for preliminary bookings earlier this month and guests are now able to reserve space on the 2026 itinerary and departure date of their choosing.

All guests who book 2026 cruises now will have the opportunity to cancel their bookings, and receive a full refund of their deposits, when pricing and final itinerary details are announced in early 2025.

For more information, visit www.tauck.ca.

A view from the water of a town of colourful buildings are built along the steep incline of a cliff.

A look at the most popular places to travel from Canada

August 12, 2022

According to new research from First in Service Travel LTD (F1S), Italy, France and Greece are the top international destinations Canadian advisors are booking and recommending.

“With all the pent-up demand for travel, coupled with the Canadian dollar’s stronger performance against the euro over the past year, it’s no surprise that Europe is performing so well,” explained Fernando Gonzalez, chief executive officer for F1S, one of North America’s largest independent travel agencies. “Italy has once again claimed its place among the world’s premier destinations, thanks to its stunning scenery, exquisite culture and history, epicurean delights, and extraordinary people.”

Findings from the recent survey had F1S travel advisors name the top three international destination they were booking for 2022. Among international destinations, 72.7% of the advisors named Italy as one of their top destinations, followed by France (45.5%) and Greece (27.3).

“Italy is always a winner,” added F1S advisor Willa Griffin. Advisor Waldo Wohl concurred, offering a simple explanation that “Italy is always Italy.”

Gonzalez indicated that the biggest surprise internationally for the year is the popularity of Greece. “Whether it’s the culture of ancient cities like Athens or the allure of the islands, Greece has really taken off over the past couple years. It was able to take hold during the pandemic and has maintained its strong forward momentum this year,” he said.

F1S advisor Marisa Wise added that she is booking “lots of Santorini. Its views and food are amazing. Also, Greek island cruising is super popular.”

First in Service advisors in Canada were also asked which “under the radar” destinations they are booking most internationally. Colombia and Portugal were tied for first place, with 27.3% of advisors recommending each. 

“Travel to the United States and cruising have both been on the rebound,” Gonzalez added. “Additionally, we will soon issue the trends we are seeing specifically for domestic travel within Canada.”

F1S advisor George Alexandrou is among those recommending Colombia because “it has a great mix of culture, adventure and direct flights.” Meanwhile, Portugal is recommended by F1S advisor Christina Gula, who said, “Portugal is a beautiful country with lots to offer. Great scenery, food and culture.”

Most popular travel picks

Each surveyed advisor was also asked to name the single most popular international destination they are specifically booking for Canadian clients on each continent and other major regions globally.

The top picks were:

  • Africa: South Africa
  • Asia: Thailand
  • Australia/New Zealand/South Pacific: Australia
  • Caribbean: St. Barths
  • Central America: Costa Rica
  • Europe: Italy
  • Middle East: Israel
  • North America: United States
  • South America: Colombia

Willa Griffin, who helps lead the agency in Canada, pointed out that they’ve seen a major uptick in last minute bookings with borders reopening.

“I think it’s been a combination of pent up demand and the feeling that the world might close down again,” Griffin shared. “Personally, I feel like things will regulate themselves again very soon. This spring and summer were all about having the freedom to travel again. Moving forward, I think people will again start to plan ahead, maybe not like they used but will want to ensure that they get what they want from their travel dollars. I am already seeing very limited availability for festive which to me is a very good sign.”