Canadian Travel Trends

Summer has always been a popular time to travel – especially for Canadians. And this year is no different – people are still on the lookout for great deals that offer good value.

Here are some interesting trends I’ve seen that may help with your travel plans this summer:

Hotels across Canada are publishing specials on Travelzoo.ca that are selling out within days and are 50% or more off their usual rates for this time of year.

There are more all-inclusive Europe deals available this summer, including some flight and rail packages for Italy and escorted tours through Greece and Turkey.

“Staycations” and long weekend getaways will continue to be popular as people look for mini-vacations closer to home.

Now, more than ever, Canadians are being cautious with their spending, looking to stretch their dollar and eager for great deals.


Deals for the Family

If you are looking for great family friendly vacations, here are a few spots with some great deals that will last throughout the summer months:

Mont Tremblant: Accommodations for families include mini-suites with kitchens and food storage and preparation areas. For the kids there are parades, concerts and magicians as well as a luge, a climbing tower, biking, swimming, mini-golf, boating and more.

Whistler: Summer is prime time for great deals in Whistler where activities for kids abound. Similar to Tremblant, families can get comfortable as many properties offer family style suites and amazing outdoor activities for all ages. We’re currently seeing deals for less than $80 per night.

Niagara Falls: Great summer deals for Niagara Falls are available starting as low as $59 per night. Many hotels also offer packages with their room rates that include meal credits, activity passes and more.

Vacation Packages: If all-inclusives are your style, Club Med welcomes kids 15 and younger to stay for free at a number of Club Med properties -- a savings of almost $600 per child. The slower economy has coincided with the grand opening of new, multimillion-dollar resorts throughout the Caribbean that have an especially time-sensitive incentive to lure new travelers, and families are among the most sought-after.

Whether you are Europe-bound or looking for some fun closer to home, there are many affordable travel options to choose from this summer.

Mandy Gresh is the Country Manager of online travel deals publisher Travelzoo Canada.

An avid traveller, Mandy has travelled extensively throughout Europe and the UK including visits to France, Belgium, Spain, Prague, Vienna, Budapest and Italy, England, Scotland, Ireland, and numerous tropical destinations throughout the world.