Lighthouses & Legends: Exploring the Nova Scotia Coast Another year, another opportunity to discover the best of Canada. Let me introduce you to Nova Scotia, with a place where history meets beautiful landscapes and the seafood is incredible. This province is a masterpiece of rugged coastlines, lush valleys, and friendly, welcoming towns.   We've laid out the perfect, easy-to-follow 8-Day Coastal Gems itinerary, which lets you hop in your car and simply go. Think stunning lighthouses you can actually climb, quaint fishing villages frozen in time, and history that’s actually fun to discover. The best part? Everything is perfectly paced, ensuring you never feel rushed, just relaxed and ready for the next discovery. Ready for the ultimate casual Nova Scotia Road trip? Let's dive into exactly what makes this Maritime vacation unforgettable! Starting Strong (But Easy!) in Halifax   Your Nova Scotia adventure begins in Halifax, a vibrant, historic city that truly knows how to relax. The moment you arrive and grab your rental car; you’ll feel the laid-back rhythm of the Atlantic. My best advice for day one? Don't overthink it—head straight to the waterfront! Grab a coffee (or maybe a local craft beer!), watch the ships and ferries crisscross the harbour, and just soak up the salty air and the atmosphere. The whole downtown area is super walkable, filled with cool pubs, little art galleries, and historic buildings tucked between modern shops. You can easily spend an afternoon wandering, maybe grabbing some fresh fish and chips for dinner. The Must-Do: You absolutely have to see Peggy's Cove Lighthouse. It’s the iconic, postcard-perfect shot for a reason, and it’s just a short, scenic drive from the city. Go, take your photos, and be completely amazed by the sheer scale of those smooth, wave-worn granite rocks meeting the powerful ocean. It's a genuine "wow" moment. On day two, get your history fix at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site. It’s a super cool old star-shaped fort that gives you the best panoramic view of the whole city and the harbour. Plus, costumed interpreters bring the 19th century to life! It’s easy, fun, and classic Nova Scotia sightseeing. The Most Colourful Town Ever: Lunenburg Time to hit the road for the famous South Shore drive and head to Old Town Lunenburg. Seriously, this town is like stepping into a perfectly preserved, brightly colored painting. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, which basically means it’s internationally recognized as one of the best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement , more importantly for us, incredibly beautiful.  Wander the steep, narrow streets and  admire the historic homes—painted in brilliant colors like cherry red, deep blue, and mustard yellow—that make the waterfront pop. Visit   local shops, and definitely spend some time by the docks to spot the famous Bluenose II schooner. You can also explore the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic to get a sense of the town's deep connection to the sea. The vibe here is old-school maritime charm mixed with modern artistic flair, and it’s totally effortless. You'll want to spend hours just photographing everything! For an extra quiet and beautiful detour, drive out to the tiny fishing village of Blue Rocks nearby. Nature’s Drama and The Best Lobster Lunch Prepare to be genuinely amazed by the Bay of Fundy. The tides here are the highest in the world! You'll see water levels drop by feet in just a few hours; it's a massive natural phenomenon that feels almost unbelievable. This region of Nova Scotia is truly unique. While you're near the huge tides, you absolutely must do the quintessential Nova Scotia meal: a "Lobster in the Rough" lunch at Hall's Harbour. It’s messy (bring those bibs!), It’s fresh (picked out of the tank right there), and it’s the best way to eat lobster right on the docks, watching the huge tides roll in or out. We also sneak in a chill afternoon near the town of Wolfville for a low-key wine tasting. Yes, Nova Scotia has great cool-climate wine, and it’s a lovely, relaxing break   offering stunning views of the vineyards and the Minas Basin. Later, you'll head toward Digby, stopping at Annapolis Royal, one of North America's oldest European settlements, perfect for a leisurely evening stroll among the historic buildings and gardens. Lighthouses, History, and Beach Days As you cruise toward the end of your trip, you’ll find some quieter, super scenic spots. The drive takes you toward Yarmouth to visit the awesome Cape Forchu Lighthouse (it has a really unique 'apple core' shape!). If you're feeling adventurous, you can even climb it for a spectacular view that stretches out over the endless Atlantic. For a moment of quiet reflection and education, we highly recommend stopping at the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre in Birchtown. It’s an incredibly important and moving part of Canadian history that tells the vital story of the first free Black settlement here. It adds a powerful layer of depth and understanding to your trip. Finally, you get to finish your trip on the sand! Your last couple of nights are spent relaxing at the beautiful White Point Beach Resort. Take a long walk on the beach, hunt for beautiful sea glass, listen to the powerful, rhythmic ocean, and just unwind completely. It’s the perfect, peaceful end to a stress-free Maritime vacation before you make the easy drive back to Halifax International Airport. Join us this year and discover the best of Nova Scotia. We have tours for you to experience the food, local traditions and the amazing sunsets all in one trip. Book your next adventure today! View the Full Itinerary here   

Flavors of the West Coast: Discovering Vancouver’s Food Scene and Island Adventures.   Vancouver is a city where nature and nurture meet on a plate. Fraser River waters flow into the Pacific, and a multicultural population that has made food its daily language, Vancouver offers an unparalleled stage for culinary exploration. The two Anderson Vacations tours — Vancouver Culinary Escape and the 9-Day Vancouver Island Culinary Adventure — take full advantage of this rich canvas, inviting travelers to taste their way through the city and beyond. The Vancouver Culinary Escape is a five-day immersion in the city’s gastronomic heart. After settling into a central lodging near the entertainment and culture districts, guests are whisked into the rhythms of Vancouver life. On day two, the excitement begins with a FlyOver Canada experience that primes the senses with sweeping vistas of Canada’s landscapes, followed by a gastronomic tour through Gastown. In this historic neighbourhood, participants enjoy a series of progressive tastings, paired with local wines and craft beers, while walking along lamp-lit cobblestone streets.    An Urban Culinary Experience Day three shifts focus inward: a deep dive into Vancouver’s celebrated food culture. From dim sum to sushi, from handcrafted dumplings to Korean delights, the tour highlights how immigration and tradition have coalesced in Vancouver’s dining scene. On day four, Granville Island becomes the stage a public market bursting with fresh produce, artisanal cheese, bakery treats, charcuterie and local delicacies. Guests bypass lines to sample more than 20 signature local tastings, weaving through stalls and food artisans. Finally, day five brings a leisurely departure full of memories, photographs, and the lingering tastes of British Columbia’s bounty. Yet the culinary story doesn’t end in the city. The 9-Day Vancouver Island Culinary Adventure extends the palate’s journey into island life, combining the vibrancy of Vancouver with the wild, rural and coastal flavors of Vancouver Island. Starting in Vancouver, travelers spend a relaxed day touring the city via hop-on hop-off buses, visiting places like Stanley Park, the Lion’s Gate Bridge, and taking in the FlyOver Canada attraction as an introduction to Canada’s natural wonders.   Where a New Story Begins From there, the itinerary leads across to Victoria and beyond, with stops at island farms, wineries, oyster beds, and coastal towns. Among the highlights: sampling oysters in Fanny Bay, savoring the emerging food scene in Tofino, and exploring Victoria’s foodie walking tours. Along the way, guests experience a balanced mix of sightseeing (wild Pacific coast, rainforest, coastal drives) and dining (farm-to-table meals, seafood, local producers). By traversing the island’s varied micro-regions, the tour underscores how local terroir, ocean currents, and regional producers shape distinct flavors.   What makes Vancouver so compelling as a culinary hub? First, its geography and climate. The proximity to coastal waters and fertile lands means seafood, berries, shellfish, and vegetables reach the table quickly and fresh. Second, the city’s demographics shape its food identity: significant Asian, Indigenous, European and global communities have made their mark through restaurants, markets, food festivals, and more. Third, the local food ethos encourages sustainability, farm partnerships, and culinary creativity Vancouver chefs and vendors often champion seasonal, local, and ethically sourced ingredients. Together, the two tours present complementary ways to experience this richness. The five-day city escape captures the pulse of Vancouver’s neighborhoods, market culture, and multicultural flavors. The nine-day island tour amplifies that by venturing into coastal communities, farm regions, and remote culinary outposts — yet still begins and ends in Vancouver, anchoring the journey to the city’s energy.   The Perfect View For anyone considering a culinary travel adventure, Vancouver is the beating heart of the region’s food narrative. You stroll through Granville Island’s markets, sip a sake in a hidden sushi haunt in downtown, reach for freshly shucked oysters by the Pacific, or dine among farm fields under island stars, you’ll sense how Vancouver binds land, sea, culture, and cuisine. These tours do more than guide you they let you taste the story of Vancouver and the coastal British Columbia region, one bite at a time. Book with Anderson Vacations today and experience a truly unforgettable culinary journey through Vancouver and Vancouver Island, where every taste tells a story. Tours: https://www.andersonvacation.com/trip/vancouver-culinary-escape  https://www.andersonvacation.com/trip/9-day-vancouver-island-culinary-adventure

Vancouver Winter Wonders: From City Lights to Northern Nights Discover the magic of winter in Western Canada with Anderson Vacations — where every frosted skyline, snow-draped forest, and northern light tells a story. From the shimmering coastal beauty of Vancouver to the alpine charm of Whistler and the breathtaking auroras of the Yukon, our winter tours let you experience the very best of Canada’s most enchanting season.   Vancouver: Where Winter Meets the Coast Your journey begins in Vancouver, the perfect gateway to Canada’s winter wonderland. Though snow is rare here, the city embraces a softer kind of winter charm misty mornings, cozy cafés, and forest trails framed by mountain and ocean views. This balance of urban culture and natural beauty makes Vancouver an unforgettable starting point for your winter adventure.   A Unique Experience Explore Stanley Park, where evergreen forests meet the sea, and stroll the Vancouver Seawall as city lights shimmer on the water. Warm up with a coffee at Granville Island Market, or savor West Coast flavors at one of Vancouver’s many acclaimed restaurants. Even in the rain, the city feels alive a vibrant, cultural hub surrounded by calm coastal wilderness. With Anderson Vacations, you can experience the city your way. Our 4-day Vancouver Winter Adventure is perfect for relaxed explorers, while the Self-Drive Vancouver & Whistler package gives you the freedom to head north at your own pace. And if you’re dreaming of the north’s glowing skies, the Vancouver to Yukon Aurora tour combines city charm with nature’s most spectacular light show.   The Sea-to-Sky Highway: A Drive Through Winter Magic Leaving Vancouver behind, the Sea-to-Sky Highway is one of Canada’s most scenic routes. Each turn reveals a new panorama: the turquoise waters of Howe Sound, the rugged cliffs of Cheakamus Canyon, and the towering Tantalus Mountains gleaming under the winter sun. Your destination: Whistler, world-famous for its alpine beauty and the 2010 Winter Olympics. Here, adventure meets relaxation. Ski or snowboard on Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, take the record-breaking Peak 2 Peak Gondola, or explore winter trails on snowshoes. Prefer a slower pace? Wander the pedestrian village, enjoy boutique shopping, or sip hot chocolate by a crackling lodge fire. Whistler’s magic lies in its versatility. Whether you crave excitement or tranquility, the village captures the essence of Canadian winter — crisp air, warm hospitality, and endless natural beauty. Anderson Vacations’ itineraries make it easy to tailor your experience, ensuring every traveler finds their perfect winter rhythm. Find more information about Destination Vancouver here   The Yukon: Under the Northern Lights Continue north to a world unlike any other — the Yukon, where silence reigns and the night sky comes alive with color. After a short flight from Vancouver, you’ll arrive in Whitehorse, the heart of Canada’s northern wilderness and the gateway to the Aurora Borealis. As night falls, you’ll venture to the AuroraCentre, a cozy, purpose-built location designed for optimal aurora viewing. Wrapped in blankets and sipping hot chocolate, you’ll watch as green, pink, and violet ribbons of light ripple across the dark sky. It’s a moment that defies words — a natural phenomenon that must be seen to be believed. During the day, explore Whitehorse’s local culture and history. Stroll historic Main Street, visit the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, or take part in a thrilling dog sledding excursion. Every experience deepens your connection to this remarkable region a place where wilderness still feels truly wild. Our 5-day Vancouver & Yukon Aurora package offers the perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and wonder. It’s more than a vacation it’s a front-row seat to one of Earth’s most extraordinary shows.   Vancouver’s West Coast Winter: Calm, Reflective, and Alive What makes a Vancouver winter truly special is its gentle rhythm where ocean mist meets mountain snow and city lights glow beneath soft rain. Winter here isn’t harsh; it’s calm, reflective, and beautifully alive. The city seems to breathe more slowly, inviting you to do the same. You can wander through Stanley Park’s Forest trails wrapped in fog, sip hot chocolate along English Bay, or watch the skyline shimmer across the harbor. The scent of cedar and sea salt fills the air, and every moment feels like a quiet discovery. Discover family-friendly places to visit and attractions in Vancouver here. On Canada’s West Coast, winter isn’t defined by snowstorms but by connection to nature, to the water, and to the people who find warmth in shared laughter and steaming cups of coffee. It’s a season of reflection and renewal, where even rainy days feel poetic. Vancouver reminds you that winter’s beauty doesn’t need to sparkle with frost; sometimes it simply glows softly, steadily in the rain. Ready to experience the magic yourself? Book your next Vancouver winter journey with Anderson Vacations and discover the wonder of Canada’s West Coast, your way. Tours: https://www.andersonvacation.com/trip/6-day-winter-adventures-in-vancouver-and-whistler-selfdrive https://www.andersonvacation.com/trip/5-day-vancouver-and-yukon-aurora-viewing-package  

“Heartbeat of the Land: Exploring Urban Calgary and the Ancestral Roots of Alberta. Calgary: Where Modern Lines Meet Ancestral Echoes The Blue Sky City pulses with a unique energy, a vibrant hum found in its busy downtown core and the peaceful quiet of its hidden galleries. This isn't just a city with a great modern architecture building; it's a place where urban life perfectly connects with the vast natural beauty that surrounds it. You'll find world-class dining, exciting festivals, and diverse neighbourhoods, all while being just a stone's throw from the majestic Rocky Mountains. But Calgary offers more than just city attractions. There's a deeper connection here, a feeling that comes from the land itself. You can smell the sweetgrass even in the city's green spaces, and hear the echo of ancient drums in modern art. This journey isn't simply about seeing famous sights; it’s about truly listening to the stories woven into the very ground beneath your feet, stories told by voices that have been part of this land forever. It's an experience that feels both thrilling and deeply meaningful, right here in our urban heart.     In Calgary, the skyline rises beside the Bow River, but culture here runs deeper than architecture. At Studio Bell, the “Speak Up!” gallery showcases Indigenous artists like Jeremy Dutcher and iskwē weaving language and poetry into sound. You leave humming a tune that feels like both a call and a memory. Credit Photo: Travel Alberta At Heritage Park, history lives in tipi canvas and the smell of woodsmoke. You walk through a recreated fur-trading post where Métis interpreters share stories of kinship and resilience. A drumbeat rolls over the prairie breeze. Even amid the reenactment, you feel the wisdom of the land.   Painted Warriors: Learning the Land’s Language Just west of Calgary, the highways thin and the foothills roll into soft curves of green. Here, among whispering pines and wide skies, sits Painted Warriors Ranch—a place where the land teaches as much as the people. Credit Photo: Painted Warriors   You’re greeted with warmth and quiet strength by your hosts, knowledge keepers who don’t rush, who wait until you’re listening with more than just your ears. The day unfolds gently: a guided walk reveals how spruce tips can soothe coughs, how sage is gathered with ceremony. You smell the earth. You kneel beside plants you’ve passed a hundred times but never truly seen. Archery lessons come next, not as sport, but as practice in patience and focus.The bow hums in your hands. Foam targets stand in a meadow ringed with trees, and every shot feels like a small connection to tradition.     Credit Photo: Painted Warriors   When night falls, your glamping tent glows with lamplight and the crackle of a wood stove. The stars here are bold, uncrowded. Around the fire, stories flow—of ancestors, of animals, of stars that once guided migrations. Laughter mixes with legend. It feels timeless. This isn’t a performance. It’s a homecoming, quiet, respectful, unforgettable. In Edmonton, the rhythm shifts. At Fort Edmonton Park, the Indigenous Peoples Experience immerses you in stories of tradition and survival. Elders' voices fill projection-lit rooms with honesty and pride. Down by the North Saskatchewan River, ÎNÎW River Lot 11 blends public art with sacred memory. Nearby, lunch at Pei Pei Chei Ow serves bison chili and Bannock meals rich with meaning.   Métis Crossing: Revival on the Riverbank At Métis Crossing, a voyageur canoe ride glides through history. The interpretive centre blends heritage with art, while sacred white bison graze nearby, powerful symbols of renewal. Here, you’re not a tourist, but a witness, someone who came to listen and leaves carrying the story forward.     Elk Island National Park offers space to reflect. On a geo-cultural walk, a Métis guide shares knowledge of stone, trail, and tree. You begin to see the land not as scenery, but as ancestor.   Credit Photo: Travel Alberta   In the distance, bison graze in golden light. They were nearly lost and yet here they are. Like the cultures they represent enduring, proud, alive. It was a return to the heartbeat of the land. If this journey speaks to your spirit, let Anderson Vacations help you experience it for yourself. We work closely with local Indigenous partners to create authentic, respectful, and enriching travel experiences. Let the land guide you—book your adventure today and travel with purpose. Calgary is truly a destination unlike any other, offering a vibrant urban experience deeply rooted in a rich history. We invite you to discover this incredible city and the surrounding landscapes, where the stories of the land come alive through the voices of its most knowledgeable people.  Learn more about these attractions and explore our tours to experience the best of Calgary, The Blue Sky City. For questions about tours, send us an email at bookings@andersonvacations.ca or call us at 1-866-347-6881  

Explore Beyond the Rockies: Why Calgary is Your Top Pick for a 5-Day Fall Getaway As autumn colors begin to emerge late September, Calgary and its surrounding landscapes offer a distinct charm. A 5-day Fall Self- Drive Getaway Tour with Anderson Vacations provides an opportunity to experience urban attractions alongside the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies foothills. This tour is a great blend of city exploration and mountain town tranquility during the autumn season.  Calgary Arrival and City Views The journey for this unforgettable fall getaway begins right in the heart of Calgary, Alberta, where the first day is thoughtfully designed to offer an initial opportunity for you to explore the city at your own pace. A truly essential and iconic activity to kick off your adventure is a visit to the Calgary Tower. Soaring 191 meters above the bustling downtown core, its 360-degree observation deck provides an unparalleled vantage point. From here, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across the shimmering city skyline, extend over the vast, golden prairies to the east, and culminate in the magnificent, snow-capped peaks of the distant Rocky Mountains to the west. This incredible perspective offers an excellent, immediate orientation to Calgary's unique geographical context, allowing you to truly grasp its position as the gateway to the mountains and the vibrant hub of the prairies. It's not just a view; it's an invitation to see the vastness and beauty that awaits you on this unique autumn exploration.   Culinary Exploration in Calgary                                         Photo Credit: Joel Tatlow/Tourism Calgary Calgary's culinary scene with a dedicated Calgary Food Tour. This experience involves visiting several local establishments, typically between six and ten, to sample local produce and dishes. Beyond the culinary aspect, these tours often incorporate information about the neighborhood's history, local art, and architectural elements, providing a broader cultural insight into Calgary's communities. Tours are generally designed to last between two and four hours, accommodating small groups.    Olympic Legacy and Retail Therapy                                            Photo Credit Shaun Lockyer/ Tourism Calgary On day three, a rental car becomes available, facilitating exploration beyond the city center. The itinerary includes a visit to WinSport Canada Olympic Park, the site of the 1988 Winter Olympic Games. This facility functions as a year-round recreational area, offering activities such as downhill karting by Skyline Luge, mini-golf, and mountain biking during warmer months. Following the activities at WinSport, you can visit Farmers' Market West, which is located across the street.                                                                       Joel Tatlow/ Tourism Calgary For those who love to shop, a visit to CrossIron Mills is also available. As one of the largest retail destinations in the area, this massive shopping center boasts over 200 stores, offering everything from high-end fashion and popular brands to home goods and electronics. Whether you're looking for the latest trends or hunting for a great deal at a premier outlet store, you're sure to find something special to bring home. It's not just shopping, but an experience in itself, with a wide variety of dining options.   Journey to Canmore and Mountain Charm A beautiful drive from Calgary to Canmore, a town situated within the Canadian Rockies. Canmore offers a distinct mountain community atmosphere. Activities in Canmore include strolling along Main Street, exploring various shops and art galleries, and experiencing local breweries or coffee shops. For those interested in outdoor activity, a beginner-friendly hike to two nearby turquoise lakes is also an option, showcasing the region's natural landscapes. This allows for an immersive experience in a mountain setting.  Canmore Leisure and Departure from Calgary The final day provides time for a relaxed morning in Canmore. Visitors can enjoy the mountain surroundings before checking out of their accommodation. The tour concludes with the return of the rental car in Calgary, marking the end of the 5-day itinerary. But remember, Calgary's charm extends far beyond its stunning fall colors. This city truly shines all year round, offering everything from vibrant festivals and world-class dining to thrilling outdoor adventures, no matter the season. So, while this 5-day Fall Getaway provides the perfect introduction to Calgary's autumn splendor, consider it just a taste of what awaits. We can't wait to welcome you to discover for yourself why Calgary, the Blue Sky City, is a fantastic place to visit - not just for a season, but for endless unforgettable experiences. Don't let this autumn pass you by without experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the season with us. For more information and to begin planning your unforgettable fall getaway, we invite you to get in touch. You can reach our travel experts by phone at 1-866-347-6881 or via email at bookings@andersonvacations.ca

Discovering the Northern Territory: A Journey Through Australia's Timeless Landscapes and Cultures – A Truly Unique Destination. Looking for a trip that genuinely moves you, a place that offers more than just sights but truly broadens your perspective? Australia's Northern Territory is that destination. It's not just another place to visit; it's a vibrant, ancient land promising an adventure unlike anything you've experienced before. Imagine standing at the base of Uluru, feeling the strong energy from this sacred landmark as the desert sun paints it in brilliant shades of orange and red. It's a powerful spot where the stories of the Anangu people live on through time. Nearby, the grand domes of Kata Tjuta invite you to explore their old valleys, and Kings Canyon calls with its dramatic cliffs and hidden green oases. Every step here connects you to a deep past, a history that feels woven into the very air.                                                                              Darwin City view Next, head north to the lively, tropical rhythm of Darwin, your starting point for the amazing wonders of the Top End. Here, the vast, World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park unfolds with its stunning variety of landscapes. Picture yourself gliding across calm billabongs on a wildlife cruise, spotting large saltwater crocodiles and a beautiful array of birds. Then, step back in time among the ancient Aboriginal rock art sites, where detailed paintings tell stories passed down for tens of thousands of years – a wonderful look into one of the world's oldest cultures. And when you need to cool off, the natural swimming holes and flowing waterfalls of Litchfield National Park offer a refreshing, perfect escape.                                                                           Litchfield National Park What makes the Northern Territory truly special is its heartwarming connection to its First Nations cultures. This isn't just about learning history; it's a chance to meet and engage with Traditional Owners. You'll hear their stories, understand their deep respect for the land, and gain insights that will stay with you long after your trip ends. It's a truly immersive experience, a chance to be part of a living culture.                                                           Aboriginal Experiences with Local People Beyond the rich cultural encounters, the Northern Territory is an exciting playground for adventure. From thrilling outback tours that take you into huge, rugged landscapes, to peaceful moments under a sky full of stars, every day brings a new excitement or a quiet moment of wonder. You can explore waterfalls, go on exciting wildlife safaris, or simply relax by a campfire, letting the stillness of the ancient land calm you.   For those who love excitement, Darwin also hosts the MXGP of Australia. From September 19 to 21, 2025, you can watch the world's top motocross riders compete on a specially built track. It's a high-energy event that perfectly complements the region's natural beauty, showing that the Northern Territory really does offer something for everyone. The Northern Territory is more than just another place. It's an experience that awakens your senses and invites you to step into an adventure that will leave a lasting mark on your heart. Are you ready to discover Australia's incredible heartland? Join us and book your next adventure today. Explore the variety of tours and experiences carefully crafted for you to discover the best of Australia Northern Territory.  Start planning your amazing journey here: Northern Territory Australia Tours