The State of Our Planet Our climate is changing, and our Earth is now heating at a rate unprecedented in at least 2000 years (IPCC Report 2022). This is causing extreme weather events because carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, primarily created through the burning of fossil fuels, are accumulating in the atmosphere, creating an additional planetary blanket. This means that less heat from the sun can escape back to space. Our environment, biodiversity, communities, and livelihoods are all being adversely affected by more frequent extreme weather events. Although these types of natural disasters have occurred before, today climate change is super-sizing them, making them much more dangerous and damaging.     What Can Trees Do? Trees can play a vital role in helping to restore the natural balance on our planet. They absorb harmful pollutants and store carbon emissions, subsequently releasing oxygen into the air. Currently, trees represent one of our most effective carbon technologies. There used to be 6 trillion trees on Earth, but today only about 3 trillion trees remain. We are losing approximately 15 billion trees annually and destroying an area of forest equivalent to a football field every 1.2 seconds. At the current rate of deforestation, the world's rainforests could completely disappear within 100 years. Deforestation is also the second-largest emitter of CO2 at 20%, primarily due to land clearing for cattle rearing and agriculture. Scientific research estimates that a worldwide tree-planting program could remove two-thirds of all CO2 emissions. Scientists assert that they "know of no other solution that is quantitatively as large in terms of carbon capture." Existing forests around the world currently absorb about 30% of annual CO2 emissions, and if we restore nature, we could achieve an additional carbon drawdown of 20 to 30% (Dr. Thomas Crowther, 2022). Calculations suggest that there is still around 900 million hectares of tree restoration potential in the world, which is sufficient to plant 1.2 trillion trees. Therefore, we need to protect existing forests and continue restoring those that have been destroyed.   Trees are truly critical to the well-being of our planet, but we must remember that nature is not just a carbon store; it is the infinite network of ecosystems that is vital to human life (Thomas Crowther, 2022). Forests nurture and improve our soils, act as carbon sinks, clean the air we breathe by absorbing harmful pollutants, provide healthy food, serve as natural aqueducts helping water quality, and offer habitat to 80% of the world’s terrestrial plants and animals. Shockingly, in the last 50 years, we have experienced massive loss in biodiversity; the world's wildlife populations have plummeted by more than two-thirds (WWF). Biodiversity includes pollinators such as bees, one of the world’s species vital to food production, pollinating around a third of our food. Finally, some 1.6 billion people worldwide depend directly on forests and their biodiversity for food, shelter, energy, medicines, and income (UN Global Forests Report 2021). Reforestation in those places where we have already lost trees is the key. Where the conditions are right, we can harness the power of nature to help create a future in which both people and nature can thrive. Natural climate solutions can be effective if the role of local communities as sources of indigenous knowledge is listened to, included, and supported integrally in any reforestation project. Only then can we ensure that the forests we grow become permanent and sustainable. There is no doubt that a stable future climate requires revolutions in our energy sector and massive efforts by all of us to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. "Just" planting trees and continuing business as usual is not a solution; we must use a combination of approaches if we want to help reverse climate change. This includes those all-important trees, but noticing, measuring, and reducing our consumption is the first step to reducing emissions. Whatever is then left and hard to reduce, we should look at compensating in a meaningful way with high-quality carbon offsets.   Learn more about our partnership with Trees4Travel and how we are working to contribute to the well-being of our planet and its communities.

Are you more of a history buff, or a wildlife watcher? Do you yearn to follow the route of gold-seeking pioneers of the 1860s, or is spotting a soaring eagle or a handsome bear top of your list? Do snow-capped peaks tickle your fancy, or are you excited by bold red sandstone landscapes? Iconic train Rocky Mountaineer offers four distinctive rail journeys that explore the North American Rocky Mountains: the Rockies to the Red Rocks Route travels between Moab, Utah, and Denver, Colorado in the US, while in Canada, three routes connect the Pacific city of Vancouver with the Canadian Rocky Mountains. No matter which you choose, as you sink into your roomy reclining seat with a glass of wine, you'll enjoy an inspiring mix of nature's greatest hits, storytelling that brings your surroundings to life, and Rocky Mountaineer's legendary service.    Rockies to the Red Rocks   The newest Rocky Mountaineer experience, Rockies to the Red Rocks is an epic two-day rail journey that follows the Colorado River from towering red stone monuments in the west out to the Mile High City in the east, through vast canyons, alpine forests, and even a wine-growing region. Between Moab, on the edge of Arches National Park in Utah and Glenwood Springs, Colorado, you’ll get an up-close look at the burnt orange sandstone walls of Ruby Canyon and the view through orchards to the magnificent Mount Garfield. Travelling between Glenwood Springs and Denver, you’ll pass through a procession of canyons, climb high into the Colorado Rockies, and cross the Continental Divide via the historic 10-kilometre (6 mile) Moffat Tunnel.   Explore 10 Day to the Red Rocks Rail and Drive, our independent travel itinerary featuring the best of Utah's National Parks with breathtaking landscapes.      First Passage to the West   The two-day First Passage to the West route chugs along the historic tracks of the country’s first coast-to-coast railway between Vancouver and Banff or Lake Louise, with an overnight stay in Kamloops. Pass by the snarling rapids of Hell’s Gate—named for explorer Simon Fraser’s assertion that “surely these are the gates of Hell”—and the twin rail bridges of Cisco Crossing. Between Kamloops and Banff, you’ll witness the site of the “last spike” driven into the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1885 at Craigellachie and experience the engineering marvel of the Spiral Tunnels. As you travel through Banff National Park be awed by views of towering Castle Mountain and Mount Rundle.   Explore 11 Day Glacier, Rails, Bears, and Whales Expedition, our independent travel itinerary featuring untouched landscapes and majestic wildlife on your journey through the West.        Journey through the Clouds   Also, two days long, Journey through the Clouds travels between Vancouver and Jasper, traversing some of the most remote landscapes in Canada, with scenery and wildlife largely untouched by humans. Like First Passage to the West, the rail route passes the rushing Hell’s Gate and Cisco Crossing, travelling along both the Fraser and Thompson rivers. Between Kamloops and Jasper, the train passes the glacier-fed, three-tiered Pyramid Falls; Mount Albreda; and Mount Robson—the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies at 3,954 metres (12,972 feet). Mount Robson is so big that it often forms its own weather patterns, with clouds enveloping the peak while the rest of the sky is blue. Jasper National Park is a Dark Sky Preserve known for stargazing, wildlife around every corner and some of the best outdoor adventures in the Canadian Rockies.   Explore 10 Day Ultimate Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer, our escorted group tour featuring an in-depth exploration of the mighty Canadian Rockies and iconic resort towns Banff and Jasper.            Rainforest to Gold Rush   For those that want to delve further into Western Canada’s history and diverse landscapes—and spend more time on the train—the three-day Rainforest to Gold Rush route takes a northerly path between Vancouver and Jasper, uncovering the stories of those early prospectors seeking to make their fortune. This rail route also boasts the most trestle bridges, making it a favourite with train fans. With overnights in Whistler and Quesnel, on this journey you’ll climb through rainforest into the alpine alongside the southern fjord of Howe Sound, pass the deep turquoise waters of Seton and Anderson lakes, travel along the desert like Cariboo Plateau, cross the historic Cottonwood River Bridge, and take in Mount Robson. With two of Western Canada’s best outdoor adventure hubs on this train journey, Whistler and Jasper, this rail route is the perfect fit if you love exploring nature.   Explore 8 Days Rainforest and Peaks Circle Rail Journey, our independent travel itinerary featuring the very best that Alberta's National Parks have to offer.          All rail routes are available in both directions: starting in the west and travelling east into the Rockies, or vice versa, which means that you have the choice to kick off your vacation with big city sightseeing and dining at the hottest restaurants, or with fresh air outdoor adventures and touring the national parks. Every Rocky Mountaineer rail journey travels only during daylight hours so you can be sure you’re not missing a moment of those picture-postcard views you’ve come to see. And whether you’re travelling in SilverLeaf Service or GoldLeaf Service (or SilverLeaf Plus in the US), you’ll enjoy freshly prepared cuisine paired with a glass of wine or a local craft beer, as your onboard Hosts bring the scenery to life, and you swap stories with your new lifelong friends.   Click here to view more Anderson Vacations tours that incorporate the best of land & rail with Rocky Mountaineer. Whether you are looking to travel independently or on a group tour, we have options for all types of travellers.    All photos by Rocky Mountaineer

Are you ready to witness the ethereal dance of the Northern Lights in Canada? As the night sky comes alive with vivid colors, Anderson Vacations invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey to the best Aurora viewing destinations in the Great White North. At Anderson Vacations, we consider ourselves your Canadian Travel Experts, so we've done the research for you! This blog post is our list of the 5 best places to see the Aurora Borealis in Canada. These destinations are thoughtfully ranked based on the likelihood of experiencing the Aurora Borealis, so you can confidently plan your adventure with us. 1. Yellowknife: Nestled in the Northwest Territories, Yellowknife claims its title as the prime Aurora viewing destination. Situated directly beneath the Aurora Oval, this northern gem offers an astounding 240 clear viewing nights annually, with a staggering 98% chance of Aurora sightings during a 3-night stay. At Anderson Vacations, we whisk you away on small group tours, carefully crafted to blend Aurora viewing with immersive cultural experiences. Choose a September tour to witness the lights reflecting off pristine lakes or opt for a winter adventure, complete with dog sledding, ice fishing, and a visit to the enchanting Snow Castle. 2. Churchill: The remote outpost of Churchill, in Northern Manitoba, is another hotspot for Aurora enthusiasts. With approximately 300 active Aurora nights each year, the viewing depends on weather conditions, which means that clear nights abound during the peak seasons of early fall (August/September) and late winter/early spring (late January to April). Beyond the Northern Lights, Churchill is famous for its polar bear population, at its peak during October and November. To maximize your chances of experiencing both the Aurora Borealis and polar bears, consider visiting in September or October. Your Anderson Vacations travel advisor can curate a custom package for an unforgettable journey. 3. Yukon: If you fancy independent travel, the Yukon offers Aurora viewing and many winter activities, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences. The Yukon has fewer clear nights than other destinations, but your chances remain high during early fall and mid-late winter. For optimal conditions, it's advisable to avoid visiting in October through December. Craft your ideal Yukon adventure with Anderson Vacations, featuring flight-seeing, dog sledding, Indigenous encounters, hot springs, and more. Remember to add a scenic train journey to isolated Skagway, Alaska, for a truly unforgettable trip. 4. High Arctic: To explore the Arctic region of Canada, embark on an expedition cruise. Anderson Vacations and our cruise partner offer a range of itineraries, allowing you to visit Labrador, Nunavut, the Northwest Passage, and the High Arctic. While these areas don't enjoy as many clear nights as our top choices, September and October cruises still offer favorable odds of witnessing the Northern Lights. As a bonus, you'll also encounter incredible wildlife and visit remote Indigenous villages along seldom-explored coastlines. 5. Jasper (Canadian Rockies): While Alberta and the Canadian Rockies are located further from the Auroral oval than the other destinations we've mentioned, the lights are still quite often visible here, and the backdrop of the Rockies is absolutely stunning. Jasper National Park is the largest accessible Dark Sky Preserve in the world, with the town of Jasper making a perfect base to explore the beautiful night skies without light pollution. There are plenty of daytime activities, and your advisor can put together the perfect custom itinerary for you with Anderson Vacations, including skiing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the incredible Maligne Canyon. The Aurora Borealis remains an enchanting celestial spectacle that draws intrepid travelers to Canada's northern reaches. With Anderson Vacations as your guide, you can chase the Northern Lights in some of the world's most breathtaking settings. Whether you choose the serene wilderness of the Northwest Territories, the captivating wilderness of Churchill, the cultural experiences of the Yukon, the remote beauty of the High Arctic, or the stunning Rockies, the Aurora Borealis promises to be a highlight of your Canadian journey. Let the celestial dance begin, and may the night skies fill your heart with wonder. Plan your trip to these extraordinary destinations and unlock the secrets of the Northern Lights.   Ready to witness the Aurora Borealis in Yellowknife this winter? Explore our exclusive aurora viewing tours and start planning your unforgettable adventure 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!

Embarking on a 10-day road trip through Saskatchewan promises an immersive journey, unveiling the province's diverse landscapes, cultural richness, and hidden treasures. Get ready to traverse from vibrant cities to serene natural wonders, crafting unforgettable memories along the way. Day 1-2: Gateway to Adventure  Your adventure begins in Saskatoon, a vibrant city known for its riverfront parks and cultural heritage. Explore the Western Development Museum, celebrating the region's history, and stroll along the beautiful South Saskatchewan Riverbank. Don't miss the Remai Modern Art Gallery, showcasing diverse artworks. Saskatoon sets the perfect tone for your Saskatchewan odyssey. Day 3-4: Urban Charms & Historic Treasures Welcome to Regina, Saskatchewan's capital steeped in history and urban charm. Dive into the Royal Saskatchewan Museum, offering insights into the province's natural history. Visit the iconic Legislative Building, an architectural marvel. Don't forget to explore Wascana Centre, an urban parkland offering scenic views and relaxation amidst city bustle. Day 5-6: Nature's Embrace Journey to Grasslands National Park, a haven of rugged beauty and unique landscapes. Marvel at the vastness of the East Block's prairies and explore the geological wonders of the Frenchman River Valley. Trek through diverse terrain, spotting unique flora and fauna while experiencing the untouched wilderness. Day 7-8: Lake Escapes Head to Waskesiu Lake in Prince Albert National Park, a serene escape amidst nature. Engage in outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, or simply relish the tranquil lakeside ambiance. Unwind amid lush forests and pristine waters, capturing the essence of Saskatchewan's natural allure. Day 9-10: Luxurious Retreat Conclude your expedition with a lavish retreat at Elk Ridge Resort, Saskatchewan's epitome of luxury. Nestled in nature, indulge in the resort's amenities, from spa treatments to golfing, and embrace the tranquility of the surrounding wilderness. Conclusion As your 10-day Saskatchewan road trip comes to an end, reminisce about the cultural immersion, scenic wonders, and unforgettable experiences that define this adventure. Saskatchewan's blend of urban delights, natural beauty, and luxury retreats promises an unparalleled journey worth cherishing. Saskatchewan Road Trip offers a blend of experiences that weave together the tapestry of this Canadian province. From the bustling cities of Saskatoon and Regina to the serene natural beauty of Grasslands National Park and Waskesiu Lake, each stop unveils a different facet of Saskatchewan's charm. The adventure culminates in the lavish embrace of Elk Ridge Resort, where nature and luxury converge to offer the ultimate retreat. Saskatchewan Road Trip encapsulates the essence of exploration, offering a perfect harmony between urban discoveries, raw natural landscapes, and indulgent relaxation. Whether delving into history, hiking through pristine wilderness, or unwinding in opulent comfort, this road trip weaves a narrative of diverse experiences, leaving an indelible mark on your travel memoirs. Saskatchewan Road Trip beckons, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in a tapestry of history, nature, and luxury—an odyssey worth embarking upon. Saskatchewan Road Trip encapsulates the essence of exploration, offering a perfect harmony between urban discoveries, raw natural landscapes, and indulgent relaxation. Whether delving into history, hiking through pristine wilderness, or unwinding in opulent comfort, this road trip weaves a narrative of diverse experiences, leaving an indelible mark on your travel memoirs. Saskatchewan Road Trip beckons, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in a tapestry of history, nature, and luxury—an odyssey worth embarking upon. Saskatchewan Road Trip, with its blend of urban charm, untamed natural beauty, and opulent retreats, paints a vivid picture of this Canadian province. From the vibrant cities to the tranquil lakeshores and untouched wilderness, each stop crafts a unique story within the larger narrative of your journey. As the trip draws to a close, reminisce on the cultural immersion, scenic vistas, and luxurious indulgences that have defined your adventure through Saskatchewan. Saskatchewan Road Trip embodies the essence of exploration, offering a symphony of experiences that celebrate the heart and soul of this remarkable province.      

Saskatchewan, often overlooked in travel itineraries, holds a treasure trove of natural marvels and secluded retreats waiting to be unearthed. Nestled within its untamed landscapes lie remote lodges offering unmatched experiences for intrepid explorers. Let's embark on an odyssey to unveil these concealed jewels. Why Saskatchewan's Remote Lodges? Saskatchewan's remote lodges serve as gateways to unblemished nature, where tranquility and wilderness intertwine seamlessly. Far removed from urban bustle, these lodges gift visitors serenity, awe-inspiring panoramas, and an opportunity to commune with nature. Immersive Wilderness Activities Saskatchewan's remote lodges offer a diverse spectrum of activities, from arduous hikes through unspoiled forests to tranquil canoe trips on glistening lakes. Traverse trails, angle in secluded waters, or unwind while immersed in untamed beauty. Local Experiences and Cultural Immersion Engage deeply with Saskatchewan's local culture, delving into the traditions, narratives, and rich heritage of indigenous communities. Immerse yourself in cultural events or relish regional delicacies for an authentic, enriching experience. Tips for Remote Travel Journeying to remote territories demands meticulous planning. Equip yourself with essentials, prepare for unforeseen circumstances, and embrace the simplicity of off-grid living. Prioritize safety while reveling in the adventure. Conclusion Saskatchewan's remote lodges offer an escape from the ordinary, beckoning travelers to embrace nature's unvarnished allure, engage in thrilling escapades, and craft indelible memories. Explore these concealed treasures, immerse yourself in solitude, and rekindle the joy of remote travel.

The Maritime Explorer Adventure Nestled along Canada's East Coast lies a realm of boundless beauty and cultural richness - the Maritime provinces. As you venture through Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick, prepare to be captivated by the distinct charm and diverse offerings of Atlantic Canada. Newfoundland and Labrador: Tales of Timeless Wonder Begin your odyssey in Newfoundland and Labrador, where rugged landscapes meet tales of seafaring legends. Explore Gros Morne National Park's dramatic fjords, stroll along the vibrant streets of St. John's, and stand in awe at the magnificence of ancient icebergs. The scenic beauty intertwined with cultural heritage creates an unforgettable tapestry. Nova Scotia: A Melting Pot of Heritage and Natural Splendor Continue your expedition to Nova Scotia, a province steeped in history and natural grandeur. Wander through the historic streets of Halifax, savor the fresh catch along the iconic Cabot Trail, and feel the rhythm of Maritime music echoing through the streets of Cape Breton. Nova Scotia's fusion of heritage and landscapes will leave an indelible mark on your journey. New Brunswick: Where Adventure Meets Tranquility As your road trip winds through New Brunswick, be prepared for a blend of adventure and tranquility. Discover the magnetic Reversing Falls in Saint John, revel in the tranquility of the Fundy National Park, and witness the world's highest tides at the Bay of Fundy. From coastal wonders to serene landscapes, New Brunswick offers a serene escape. The Maritime Explorer Experience: Embrace the Journey The Maritime Explorer: Atlantic Canada Road Trip isn't just a journey; it's an immersion into the heart and soul of Canada's East Coast. Unearth hidden gems, forge connections with friendly locals, and relish every moment as you traverse these extraordinary provinces. This road trip isn't just about the destinations; it's about the stories you collect along the way.   Join us on the Maritime Explorer Adventure and set forth on an expedition that promises to etch memories that last a lifetime.