Some travelers aren’t just considering one vacation, but two: a trip they really want to take far from home, and a Plan B. This Plan B is a backup option in case pandemic complications make their original travel plans unattainable due to COVID-19 restrictions rising, borders closing, etc. prior to departing on their trip.

If you have booked the time off work already and don’t want to miss out on the opportunity of going somewhere if the worst case does happen, the best travel advice we can give you is to have a Plan B vacation in your back pocket.

From domestic adventures in your own backyard instead of international travel, to going on a local road trip instead of taking a long flight, there are so many options for travel close to home right now, all offering their own amazing opportunities.

Once you’re ready to chat more about your next getaway and plan your Plan B holiday, contact your TierOne Travel Consultant and we will make sure you’re taken care of, no matter what happens to your travel plans.

Why Would You Need a Plan B?

This time last year, many travel destinations were simply closed. Now, the final decision often rests with would-be vacationers and what the individual traveler feels comfortable with. From navigating ever-changing travel restrictions and guidelines to keeping an eye on the rising case counts, being aware of all the changing information might seem overwhelming. Working with a travel consultant who will keep you update to date about the most recent pandemic information and restrictions is more crucial now than ever before!

Travelers may worry about getting sick or testing positive in their destination and not being able to return home for an extended period. Another concern is that if you test positive in another country, you might incur a lot of medical expenses or hotel expenses for quarantines. It’s important to have a more local backup plan in mind just in case.

What Are Some Plan B Travel Options for Canadians?

Many travelers are looking for outdoor destinations where they can have plenty of space away from other people where they can relax and enjoy privacy, similar to last year. Travelers should expect destinations and attractions that have been popular since the beginning of the pandemic, such as national parks, to continue to be very busy throughout the rest of summer and into fall.

If you aren’t quite ready to plan a big trip, it’s a good idea to first start with a simple weekend getaway or day trip at a nearby destination. Travelling isn’t just about experiencing far-off destinations, it’s also about exploring the local gems in your own backyard and enjoying time away from normal life. Contact your TierOne Travel Consultant to discuss your Plan B vacations.

Here are some of our top recommendations for Canadians:

Train Trip with Rocky Mountaineer

The Rocky Mountaineer connects British Columbia and Alberta, with stops in Jasper, Lake Louise, Banff, Vancouver, Whistler, Quesnel, and Kamloops. The train runs from mid-April until mid-October. The Rocky Mountaineer is a daylight-only train designed so that passengers can experience the most spectacular views and optimal photo opportunities. They offer three stunning daylight routes connecting British Columbia and Alberta.

Rocky Mountaineer features impeccable service, gourmet meals, specially-designed sightseeing cars to maximize the stunning views of the Canadian Rockies, and interesting narration and information throughout your journey.

Rocky Mountaineer offers two enticing service levels to spoil every traveler. We can help you decide which service level is right for you.

FIRST PASSAGE TO THE WEST

Route: Vancouver → Kamloops → Lake Louise or Banff

This itinerary is Rocky Mountaineer’s most popular route through the Canadian Rockies and is famous for uniting the East and West sides of the Canada Rocky Mountains. Travel through the legendary Spiral Tunnels, navigate the Continental Divide, and wind through gorgeous mountain passes and dramatic canyons. Experience the only passenger rail service on this historic rail route and is a must-do for anyone wanting to see the highlights of the Rockies.

JOURNEY THROUGH THE CLOUDS

Route: Vancouver → Kamloops → Jasper

Witness the unparalleled beauty of the highest peaks in the Canadian Rockies and the remote vistas of Canada’s Westside. Travel through scenic valleys, along the Fraser River, through Hell’s Gate, and past the magnificent Pyramid Falls. This Rocky Mountaineer rail route is only accessible by train and features the majestic Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies!

RAINFOREST TO GOLDRUSH

Route: Vancouver → Whistler → Quesnel → Jasper

On the Rocky Mountaineer, you can wind through lush landscapes like BC’s coastal rainforest, the rocky Fraser Canyon, and learn about the history of the gold rush in the historic Cariboo gold rush region on your way into the Rockies. Experience true wilderness, explore the mountains in Whistler, find hidden lakes and canyons only a few get to see, marvel at Mount Robson, the Canadian Rockies’ highest peak, and relax in comfort as you move through seemingly impassable terrain in the Rocky Mountaineer.

Charlottetown & East PEI

Charlottetown is PEI’s capital city, and it might be small, but it’s bursting with big energy and local kindness. This seaside city is a historical hub full of culture, festivals and events, artisan shops, outstanding restaurants and so much more.

The ocean breeze and coastal beauty highlight days spent enjoying award-winning seafood chowder, browsing artisan studios, and getting outside to hike, bike, kayak, and swim.

Experiencing the outdoors comes naturally along Points East Coastal Drive, home to 50 beaches including the island’s highest sand dunes at PEI National Park-Greenwich and the splendid “singing” sands at Basin Head. The region has six lighthouses open to the public, including Cape Bear (recipient of the Titanic’s distress signal), Point Prim (PEI’s oldest), and East Point Lighthouse (with views of colliding tides).

PEI is filled with farms, friendliness, and fab restaurants, character-rich towns, sunsets, and seashores you can find the adventure you crave and the relaxation you need!

South Okanagan, British Columbia

Wine is the No. 1 reason to visit the South Okanagan. More than 70 wineries operate in the stretch between Peachland and Osoyoos. The South Okanagan has long been recognized for producing high-quality BC agriculture and is at the heart of BC’s wine industry. With an abundance of fresh local produce and world-class wine, book ahead to make a reservation and enjoy a truly unique South Okanagan culinary experience.

There are endless outdoor activities to be enjoyed here, including the Kettle Valley Railway Trail, which has miles of hiking and cycling trails. You’ll have an abundance of terrain to explore, both in the valley and the surrounding mountains. Along with regional historic sites, rail trails, quaint communities, farmers’ markets, and other agritourism experiences, and several unique winter activities, there is so much to do all year round!

Vancouver Island

Relax, restore, and recharge yourself in the region’s cosmopolitan centers, small towns, and quaint harbors on Vancouver Island.

In addition to its endless list of hiking, camping, and paddling adventures, the Island offers ample opportunities to unwind on its scenic golf courses and lush vineyards. From the lively craft beer culture of Victoria and manicured grounds of Butchart Gardens to the raw beauty of its remote shores, the rhythm of Island life will stay with you long after you leave, and will always beckon you to return. Vancouver Island is also known for its wild beaches that are an idyllic summer sanctuary, and excellent surfing in the winter.

Explore the Gulf Islands (located in the Strait of Georgia between Vancouver Island and British Columbia’s mainland), with its old-growth forests, snowcapped mountains, and untamed shorelines to create one of the planet’s most diverse ecosystems. Experience world-class whale watching, birding, and fishing, or just let your worries drift away in the waves of the Pacific.

Quebec City

Quebec City is the best-preserved European-style big city in Canada, and there’s no shortage of unique buildings and monuments to explore for those interested in old-world architecture. The European-like town has charm radiating from each corner and street. It’s a UNESCO world heritage site that gives you a glimpse into the past of the European settlement in North America.

The old, fortified walls and the history behind them are an eternal draw. Fairmont Le Château Frontenac stands guard over several historic properties, streets, and restaurants. The Château Frontenac is the province’s most famous building, the grand Notre Dame Basilica is one of the oldest and most beautiful Catholic cathedrals on the continent.

Quebec City offers amazing food and adventurous activities. You can rent a bike and enjoy the natural beauty of Quebec City on one of its many trails.

Outside “the city walls,” is one of the most famous sites in Canadian history: The Plains of Abraham, where the English army defeated the French to secure control of Canada. Today, the sprawling area is known as Battlefields Park and contains museums and exhibits on Quebec history, as well as plenty of green space for walks, sports, and picnics. An hour’s drive outside the city is Montmorency Falls, a 272-foot waterfall and another leading natural attraction of the greater Quebec City area.

WHICH plan b adventure IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

When you’re ready to learn more about booking one of these “Plan B” travel options closer to home, contact one of our TierOne Travel agents. They have extensive experience in life-changing travel experiences and will be able to craft something incredible that is suited to your unique needs.

One call; endless experiences!
“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.” – Anonymous