Sydney to Cairns: A 15 Day Epic Adventure Through Australia's East Coast   Discover the magic of Australia’s east coast on a 15 day journey with Anderson Vacations. From the vibrant cityscapes of Sydney to the tropical charm of Cairns, this tour is a perfect blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and relaxation. Designed for small groups, it offers handpicked accommodations, seamless transportation, and access to Australia’s most iconic destinations along with its hidden gems.   What Sets This Tour Apart? Our thoughtfully curated itinerary ensures you experience the best of Australia’s east coast without the long drives. With a domestic flight between Brisbane and Airlie Beach, you’ll save time and energy to enjoy the incredible sights and activities. From world-renowned landmarks to off-the-beaten-path experiences, this tour has it all.   Top Highlights of Sydney to Cairns - 15 Day Boutique Tour   The Great Barrier Reef Dive into the crystal-clear waters of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend the day snorkeling among vibrant marine life or marvel at the reef’s beauty from a glass-bottom boat. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that tops many travelers’ bucket lists.     Daintree Rainforest Explore the lush landscapes of the world’s oldest rainforest. Guided walks take you deep into this natural wonder, where you’ll uncover fascinating flora and fauna while learning about its ecological importance.     K’gari (Fraser Island) Discover the unparalleled beauty of the world’s largest sand island. From freshwater lakes to ancient rainforests and sandy 4WD trails, K’gari promises an unforgettable adventure.     Hidden Gems You’ll Love At Anderson Vacations, we believe the best trips go beyond the usual tourist spots. That’s why we include unique, lesser-known experiences to make your journey truly special:   Port Macquarie Koala Hospital Support vital conservation efforts at this volunteer-led facility dedicated to rehabilitating injured and endangered koalas. It’s an educational and heartwarming visit that directly contributes to the survival of these beloved animals.     Nature Cruise on Croc-Spotting Waters Hop aboard a wildlife cruise to encounter crocodiles, birds, and other creatures in their natural habitat. Guided by local experts, this experience offers a closer look at Australia’s wild side.     Gumbaynggirr First Nations Cultural Experience Engage with the traditions and stories of the Gumbaynggirr people. Learn about sustainable hunting and fishing practices while connecting with the land through the eyes of its traditional custodians.       Why Choose a Small-Group Tour? Traveling with a small group ensures a more personal and immersive experience. You’ll have access to exclusive locations, enjoy a relaxed pace, and connect with like-minded travelers along the way. Plus, our expert guides bring each destination to life with their knowledge and passion.   Reserve Your Seat on the Adventure of a Lifetime From Sydney’s sparkling harbor to the breathtaking beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, this tour offers a perfect mix of iconic landmarks and hidden treasures. Ready to embark on your dream Australian adventure – Book Sydney to Cairns - 15 Day Boutique tour now! Don’t wait, your east coast adventure awaits!   Ready to Book? For more information or to start planning, contact our team at bookings@andersonvacations.ca or call 1-866-698-6377   Photos by Tourism Australia

Compare DIY Itineraries vs. Anderson Vacations When planning a trip, one of the first decisions you'll face is whether to craft your own travel itinerary or to opt for a professionally organized vacation package. Here's an introduction to help you understand the nuances between DIY itineraries and packages offered by Anderson Vacations.     Do it Yourself (DIY Itineraries) Anderson Vacations FIT Itineraries Anderson Vacations Small Group Tours Planning Time, stress, research, and planning expenses. The itinerary is created by our team of travel experts and is free with the purchase of the tour/trip. Skills Needed Ability to research multiple destinations, compare accommodations, arrange transportation, and find activities; arranging everything solo. None. Our travel advisors handle everything for you and offer expert advice. Handing the Unexpected You’re responsible for dealing with disruptions like fires, strikes, or cancellations. We take full responsibility and rebook for you to ensure a smooth trip. Schedule Explore at your own pace, but risk missing hidden gems without guidance. Explore at your own pace and see top attractions that have been planned to maximize your time.  Explore efficiently with tour leaders who know the area and guide you. Includes free time at the places people love to explore. Hotels You choose, but must sift through countless reviews to find the best options. You choose, but we recommend the best options according to your comfort and budget. Pre-screened accommodations—handpicked for quality and convenience. Researching & Checking Reviews You have to sort through accomodations, restaurants, and attractions.  Everything you need to know provided by our team or available on our website.    Making the Right Choice Your decision between a DIY itinerary and Anderson Vacations depends on your travel priorities, budget, and how much effort you want to invest in planning. Choose DIY if you enjoy the challenge of creating a trip from scratch, value total control over your schedule, and don’t mind troubleshooting issues as they arise. Opt for Anderson Vacations if you prefer a stress-free, expertly planned experience with the added security of professional support. Both approaches offer unique advantages and can lead to unforgettable travel experiences. The key is to pick the one that aligns with what you value most in your journey. Ready to plan your next adventure? Anderson Vacations is here to make it seamless and memorable!   Ready to Book? For more information or to start planning, contact our team at bookings@andersonvacations.ca or call 1-866-698-6377

Have a BLAST in Calgary This Winter: Top Seasonal Adventures!   Winter in Calgary is a season like no other. From festive city streets to exhilarating outdoor adventures, Calgary transforms into a winter wonderland that’s waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a solo traveler, Calgary’s winter offerings promise something for everyone. Ready to discover the best ways to have a blast this winter? Here are our top picks!   1. Celebrate the Chinook Blast Festival Credit: Neil Zeller One of Calgary's most exciting winter events, the Chinook Blast Festival, is an absolute must-see. This vibrant winter festival brings the city to life with art installations, live music, outdoor activities, and local food vendors. Explore Light Art in Olympic Plaza, cozy up at a warming hut, or hit the outdoor ice rinks. Did you know? Chinook Blast 2025 will be held from January 31 - February 17th. Book your itinerary to coincide with these dates for the ultimate winter experience!   2. Explore the Magic of Calgary’s Winter Festivals Credit: Kelly Hofer Beyond Chinook Blast, Calgary is home to other incredible winter festivals. From the Zoolights at the Calgary Zoo—a dazzling display of over two million lights—to the Calgary Christmas Market, where you can shop for local crafts and indulge in festive treats, the city buzzes with energy throughout the season.   3. Warm Up with Calgary’s Best Plant-Based Culinary Experiences Credit: Canelayyc After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than cozying up with a warm meal. Calgary’s diverse food scene offers a range of plant-based and sustainable options. From cozy cafés serving up vegan-friendly treats to local restaurants offering seasonal, farm-to-table dishes, there’s something for every foodie to enjoy. And don’t miss YYC Hot Chocolate Fest, one of Calgary's sweetest winter traditions. Running throughout February, local cafés and restaurants craft unique and indulgent hot chocolate creations—perfect for warming up after a day of adventure. It's a fun way to discover new spots in the city while enjoying this cozy treat. Did you know? Our multi-day packages can include culinary tours, guiding you through the city’s top restaurants, markets, and local dining gems.   4. Hit the Slopes at Canada Olympic Park Credit: WinSport If you love skiing or snowboarding, you'll be thrilled to spend a day at WinSport’s Canada Olympic Park. Just a short drive from downtown Calgary, this iconic winter sports destination offers runs for all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or seasoned pro, enjoy a day of shredding powder without leaving the city limits.   5. Discover Banff National Park – A Winter Wonderland Credit: Banff & Lake Louise Tourism (left), Travel Alberta and C&B Advertising (right) One of the most exciting features of our Calgary winter packages is the opportunity to explore Banff National Park, just a short drive away. Picture snow-covered peaks, frozen lakes, and plenty of wildlife. Whether you want to skate on Lake Louise, take a scenic snowshoe hike, or soak in the hot springs, Banff is the ultimate winter escape. Bonus: We offer day trips and excursions to Banff as part of our Calgary itineraries, letting you enjoy the best of both worlds—urban fun and natural beauty.     Why Choose Anderson Vacations for Your Winter Travel? With our expertly curated Calgary winter packages, you can experience the best that Calgary and the surrounding beautiful mountain towns have to offer. Our packages are designed to provide seamless travel, with all the details taken care of—from accommodations and activities to transportation and dining.   Ready to Book? Explore our multi-day Calgary packages and create unforgettable winter experiences this off-season! From city adventures to nature escapes, we’ve got it all covered! For more information or to start planning, contact our team at bookings@andersonvacations.ca or call 1-866-698-6377

Canada, a huge and varied nation, is frequently thought of as a summer travel destination. But all year long, this amazing country has a wide range of life-changing experiences to offer. Every traveler can find something to charm them in Canada, from the vibrant metropolis to the breathtaking nature. Read on as we explore the best of what Canada has to offer each season! Winter Wonderland: A Canadian Classic Although summer is probably the most popular season to travel to Canada, winter offers adventure and a scenic snowy paradise. Envision yourself enjoying the captivating landscapes covered in pure snow while bundled up in warm layers.    Skiing and Snowboarding: With top-notch resorts like Whistler Blackcomb and Lake Louise, Canada is a skier's dream come true. Northern Lights: Go to Yukon or the Northwest Territories to see the captivating dance of the Aurora Borealis. Winter Festivals: Take in the vivacious spirit of events such as the Winter Festival in Montreal’s Winter Carnival, or Winter Carnival in Quebec City. Cozy Retreats: Stay in quaint lodges and cabins and enjoy the warmth of Canadian hospitality.     Spring Awakening: A Fresh Perspective In Canada, spring is a season of rebirth when the natural world awakens. See the amazing change as the scenery awakens from its winter hibernation.   Wildlife Encounters: Observe baby animals and migratory birds in their native environments awaken.  Hiking and Biking: Take in the crisp spring air while exploring paths that are in bloom. City Explorations: Discover the vibrant culture and history of Canadian cities. Culinary Delights: Indulge in the flavors of spring with locally grown produce.     Summer Adventures: A Canadian Icon There's a reason why summer is looked forward to all year long! These are the months when Canada's breathtaking natural beauty is radiant and sun soaked.    Outdoor Enthusiast's Paradise: Hike, kayak, camp, and discover the vast open spaces. Coastal Charm: Unwind on immaculate beaches or go whale watching. Experience Canadian cities' vibrancy and excitement by living the city life. Festival Fever: Attend different festivals and immerse yourself in the arts, music, and culture.   Autumnal Splendor: A Painter's Palette In Canada, autumn is a lovely season when the scenery changes into an amazing rainbow of hues.   Foliage Tours: Take in the breathtaking fall foliage in Ontario and Quebec. Harvest Festivals: Savor harvest-inspired regional cuisine and music as you commemorate the season's fall spirit.  Cozy Retreats: As the leaves change color, take pleasure in the coziness of lodges and cottages. Wildlife Viewing: Watch how creatures get ready for the colder months.   Canada offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler, regardless of the season. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, this remarkable country has it all.Discover the magic of Canada with Anderson Vacations. Our expertly crafted itineraries showcase the best of each season, allowing you to create unforgettable memories. Connect With Us Got questions or need more information? Contact our team at 1-866-282-0501 or email bookings@andersonvacations.ca to start planning your next great adventure. Happy travels!

Top 5 Reasons You CANNOT Miss the Aurora Borealis This Winter 24/2025 in Yellowknife   The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, is one of the most stunning natural phenomena on Earth. Yellowknife, the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories, is renowned as one of the best places on Earth to witness the Aurora Borealis. Winter 2025 is shaping up to be an extraordinary time for aurora viewing, and here are the top five reasons why you absolutely cannot miss it.    1. The Most Brilliant Displays in 20 Years Due to the peak in the solar cycle, experts are forecasting the most vivid and widespread aurora displays in over two decades. This solar activity will result in more frequent and intense auroras, making Winter 2025 a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Northern Lights at their most brilliant. Yellowknife’s clear skies and long nights make it the perfect place to experience these extraordinary displays.   Photo credit: James Galasinao   2. Prime Viewing Location Yellowknife is ideally situated under the auroral oval, the region around the Earth's magnetic pole where the Northern Lights are most visible. This unique location consistently offers some of the brightest and most frequent aurora displays, making it a top destination for those seeking to witness this natural wonder. With 2025’s predicted Solar Maximum, Yellowknife is expected to deliver some of the most spectacular displays in decades.   Photo credit: Danny Swainson   3. Perfect Photography Conditions For photography enthusiasts, Yellowknife offers ideal conditions to capture the Northern Lights. The clear, dark skies and vibrant auroras expected in 2025 will provide endless opportunities for stunning photographs. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just capturing memories on your smartphone, the auroras in Yellowknife will offer some of the best photo opportunities you’ll ever encounter.   Photo credit: Adam Pisani   4. A Winter Wonderland of Activities While the Northern Lights are the main attraction, Yellowknife offers a host of other winter activities that make your trip even more memorable. From dog sledding and ice fishing to snowshoeing and cultural tours, there’s no shortage of adventures to complement your aurora viewing experience. This makes Yellowknife not just a destination for the Northern Lights, but a complete winter getaway.   Photo credit: Danny Swainson   5. Easily Accessible and Well-Equipped Unlike many remote aurora destinations, Yellowknife is easily accessible by air from major Canadian cities, making it a convenient choice for travelers. The city is also well-equipped to handle winter tourism, offering a range of accommodations and guided tours tailored for aurora viewing. This combination of accessibility and amenities ensures that your Northern Lights adventure is as comfortable as it is awe-inspiring.   Photo credit:  North of 60 Aurora Adventures   Yellowknife is undoubtedly one of the best places to experience the Aurora Borealis, and Winter 2025 offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the Northern Lights at their peak. With its prime location, exceptional displays, and wide range of winter activities, Yellowknife should be at the top of your list for an unforgettable aurora viewing experience.     Ready to witness the Aurora Borealis in Yellowknife this winter? Explore our exclusive aurora viewing tours and start planning your unforgettable adventure today!   Subscribe to Our Newsletter to be the first to access promos, new adventures and more!   Connect With Us Got questions or need more information? Contact our team at 1-866-282-0501 or email bookings@andersonvacations.ca to start planning your next great adventure. Happy travels!

Indigenous Culture in Alberta: Explore Authentic Fall and Winter Experiences   Alberta's breathtaking landscapes are magical in the fall and winter, with the vibrant colors of autumn leaves giving way to the pristine beauty of snow-covered vistas. These seasons offer a unique opportunity to connect with the rich traditions of the 48 First Nations and Métis peoples who call Alberta home, and whose deep connection to the land is especially evident during this time. As you explore Alberta in the off-season, unplug and immerse yourself in authentic Indigenous experiences that celebrate the cultural heritage and natural wonders of the province. Here are some incredible fall and winter Indigenous experiences in Alberta that will make your trip with us truly enriching.    World Heritage Site of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Fall is a perfect time to visit the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a unique perspective on the hunting practices of the Plains Peoples. The interpretive center remains open year-round, offering insights into the significance of the buffalo jump and the cultural traditions of the Indigenous peoples who have used this site for thousands of years. Winter tours often include storytelling sessions around a fire, providing warmth and a deeper connection to the history of the area.   Photo credit: Travel Alberta and Jeremy Fokkens (left), Travel Alberta and Colton Mckee (right)   Painted Warriors Glamping At Painted Warriors, Ojibway, Cree, and Mohawk heritage is woven into the experiences guests will have on their journey to gain a new way of seeing the culture, the outdoors, and themselves. For a truly immersive winter adventure, Painted Warriors offers a glamping experience that lets you enjoy the beauty of the Alberta wilderness in comfort. Stay in a heated tent, surrounded by the peaceful silence of the snowy landscape. During your stay, you can participate in a range of winter activities, such as snowshoeing, wildlife tracking, and learning about the traditional uses of plants in winter. In the evenings, gather around the campfire for storytelling sessions, where you’ll hear tales passed down through generations, bringing centuries of Indigenous traditions to life.    Photo credit: Indigenous Tourism Canada (left), ROAM Creative (right)   Métis Crossing Cultural Experience Package The Métis Crossing Cultural Experience Package is especially magical during the fall and winter months. As the landscape transforms with the changing seasons, so too does the experience, with seasonal activities that showcase the adaptability and resilience of the Métis people. Enjoy traditional music, dance, and crafts, all while surrounded by the beauty of fall foliage or a blanket of snow. The package includes guided tours, workshops, and performances, providing a deep dive into the rich heritage of the Métis people. This experience is perfect for those looking to learn more about Métis culture in a setting that is both festive and serene.   Photo credit: Indigenous Tourism Canada   Elk Island National Park Elk Island National Park takes on a serene beauty in the fall and winter, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a deeper connection with nature and Indigenous culture. This land, long connected to the Cree, Nakota Sioux, and Métis peoples, has served as a vital gathering place for hunting, spiritual practices, and cultural traditions. As the park’s wildlife, including bison and elk, prepare for the winter months, you can join guided tours that delve into the traditional ecological knowledge passed down through generations. Winter also offers an excellent opportunity for stargazing in the park, with clear, crisp nights providing unobstructed views of the night sky—a view that has been shared by these Indigenous communities for centuries. The park’s snow-covered trails are perfect for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, allowing you to immerse yourself in the landscape that has been so integral for generations.    Photo credit: Travel Alberta and Sameer Ahmed   Fort Edmonton Park - Indigenous Peoples Experience Embrace the crisp autumn air at Fort Edmonton Park’s Indigenous Peoples Experience, a one-of-a-kind immersive exhibit that vividly brings to life the stories and traditions of First Nations and Métis peoples. Developed in collaboration with Indigenous communities, the exhibit takes you on a journey through time, exploring the deep connections between Indigenous peoples and the land. As you walk through interactive displays, listen to the voices of elders, and engage with interpreters sharing their personal and cultural stories, you’ll gain a profound understanding of the history, resilience, and contributions of Indigenous peoples in Alberta.   Photo credit: EEDC   Exploring Indigenous culture in Alberta in the fall and winter offers a unique and enriching experience. The changing seasons provide a new perspective on the land and its history, while the off-season temperatures create an atmosphere of tranquility and reflection. Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural education, or simply a deeper connection to the land, these Indigenous experiences offer an unforgettable way to explore Alberta’s rich heritage during the most beautiful seasons of the year.   Experience authentic Indigenous Alberta and more when you book one of our independent travel itineraries.  Explore our Alberta tours and book today!   Connect With Us Got questions or need more information? Contact our team at 1-866-282-0501 or email bookings@andersonvacations.ca to start planning your next great adventure. Happy travels!