Embarking on a journey is like stepping into a canvas waiting to be painted with the hues of new experiences and unforgettable moments. Yet, before we dive headfirst into the unknown, there's one essential ritual that binds all travelers together: packing. Whether you're a seasoned explorer or a novice adventurer, crafting the perfect packing list can make or break your expedition. So, let's embark on this journey together, exploring the essentials that will accompany you on every adventure, infused with a touch of human warmth and wisdom. The Trusty Backpack: Every traveler needs a loyal companion to carry their world on their shoulders. Choose a backpack that's not only durable and spacious but also comfortable enough to endure long journeys. Remember, it's not just about what you pack, but how you carry it that matters. Comfortable Footwear: As you traverse cobblestone streets, rocky trails, or sandy beaches, your feet will be your most faithful allies. Invest in a pair of comfortable, versatile shoes that can adapt to various terrains without compromising on style. Trust me; your feet will thank you later. Layers, Layers, Layers: Mother Nature is a master of surprises, and weather can change in the blink of an eye. Pack versatile clothing items that can be layered to adapt to fluctuating temperatures, from lightweight shirts and sweaters to waterproof jackets and scarves. Embrace the art of layering, and you'll always be prepared for whatever nature throws your way. Tech Essentials: In today's digital age, our gadgets are more than just accessories; they're lifelines connecting us to the world. Don't forget to pack your smartphone, camera, charger, and any other tech essentials you can't live without. But remember, while technology can enhance our travels, sometimes the best memories are made when we disconnect and embrace the present moment. Travel Documents: Before you set off on your grand adventure, don't forget to pack the essentials: passport, visa (if required), travel insurance, and any other relevant documents. Keep them safe and easily accessible, and you'll breeze through airport security and border crossings with ease. First Aid Kit: Accidents happen when we least expect them, but being prepared can make all the difference. Pack a compact first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medications. Hopefully, you won't need it, but it's always better to be safe than sorry. Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and eco-conscious with a reusable water bottle by your side. Not only will it save you money and reduce plastic waste, but it'll also remind you to prioritize self-care amidst the whirlwind of travel. Remember, staying hydrated is key to enjoying every moment of your adventure to the fullest. Snacks and Treats: A hungry traveler is a grumpy traveler, so be sure to pack some snacks to keep hunger pangs at bay. Whether it's trail mix for hiking, granola bars for long flights, or local delicacies to tantalize your taste buds, a little nibble can go a long way in fueling your adventures. Journal and Pen: In the midst of bustling cities and serene landscapes, it's easy to get swept away by the moment. But amidst the chaos and beauty, don't forget to pause and reflect on your journey. Pack a journal and pen to capture fleeting thoughts, memories, and musings, transforming your adventures into timeless tales. Sense of Wonder: Last but certainly not least, don't forget to pack your sense of wonder and curiosity. Let it guide you through unfamiliar streets, across distant horizons, and into the hearts of new cultures. For in the end, it's not just about the places you go or the things you see but the stories you collect along the way. As you prepare to embark on your next adventure, remember that packing is more than just stuffing items into a suitcase; it's an art form, a ritual, and a reflection of your journey ahead. So, pack wisely, pack thoughtfully, and above all, pack with an open heart and an adventurous spirit. The world awaits, dear traveler, and it's time to seize every moment of the grand adventure that lies ahead.

Explore the wonders of Nova Scotia with the top 10 must-experience attractions! Situated on Canada's east coast, Nova Scotia offers a diverse array of experiences, organized into seven tourism regions ideal for a scenic road trip. With its compact size and welcoming locals, it's perfect for exploration by car or RV with one of our self-drive itineraries, or one of our escorted group tours! The best time to visit is between June and October when tourism businesses are in full swing, offering an array of activities and attractions. Direct flights from across Canada and the US to Halifax make access convenient to this must-see Canadian province.   To get you inspired, let's delve into some of the top 10 experiences in Nova Scotia!   1. Coastline Marvels Nova Scotia boasts over 13,000km of stunning coastline, offering endless outdoor adventures like scenic hikes, paddling, surfing, and boat tours.      2. Halifax Highlights Explore Halifax, Atlantic Canada's largest city, known for its walkable downtown, historic sites like the Halifax Citadel, and vibrant waterfront boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants, and annual festivals.      3. Cape Breton's Cabot Trail Experience the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island, one of the world's most scenic drives. Marvel at breathtaking coastal views, hike scenic trails and spot wildlife like moose and whales.      4. Bay of Fundy Wonders Discover the Bay of Fundy's incredible tides, the highest in the world, offering unique experiences like tidal bore rafting and exploring the ocean floor at low tide on our 13 day Maritime Mosaic escorted group tour!     5. Whale Watching Witness majestic whales breaching in the Bay of Fundy, home to 12 whale species including the rare North Atlantic Right Whale. Enjoy thrilling boat tours with lively commentary as you spot these magnificent creatures.     6. Annapolis Valley Wine Country Explore Nova Scotia's burgeoning wine region in the Annapolis Valley, known for its unique climate and award-winning wines like Tidal Bay. Embark on the Good Cheer Trail and collect digital stamps while sampling local wines, craft beers, ciders, and spirits.     7. Ceilidh Celebrations Immerse yourself in Nova Scotia's rich music traditions with ceilidh celebrations featuring lively song, dance, and storytelling. Experience world-class music festivals like the Celtic Colours International Festival on Cape Breton Island.     8. Indigenous Heritage Discover Nova Scotia's indigenous heritage at Kejimkujik National Park, where you can learn about Mi’kmaq history, explore traditional canoe routes, and marvel at 18th-century petroglyphs.     9. Year-Round Lobster Indulge in Nova Scotia's culinary delights, including year-round lobster dishes. Follow the Lobster Trail to discover over 40 restaurants serving delicious lobster creations and other fresh seafood delicacies. On our 5 Day Halifax Hub and Spoke, indulge on a two-hour Lobster & Lighthouses Tour to experience life at sea by taking in the sights and sounds of the Atlantic coastline.     10. Iconic Lighthouses Explore Nova Scotia's picturesque lighthouses, including the iconic Peggy's Cove Lighthouse on an afternoon tour! With over 150 lighthouses dotting the coastline, each offers a unique glimpse into Nova Scotia's maritime heritage.     Nova Scotia invites you to discover why it's your ultimate ocean playground! With so much to see and experience, it's time to plan your unforgettable journey to this captivating Canadian province.   Explore our best Nova Scotia independent travel itineraries: 7 Day Scenic Cape Breton Self Drive or 5 Day Halifax Hub and Spoke!   Click here to learn more about our Nova Scotia independent travel and escorted tour options!   Photos by Tourism Nova Scotia, Cape Breton Association, Matthew Bailey.

  Becoming more sustainable and reducing our emissions starts by looking at our everyday actions, and then adapting or changing our habits. This can of course be challenging at the beginning, but once you start a sustainability journey it becomes easier, and best of all rewarding knowing that we are helping to create a future to be proud of.    Sustainable Practices     Reduce your carbon footprint: Minimize your greenhouse gas emissions by conserving energy at home, switching off lights more often and using energy-efficient appliances, insulating your home, and then rethinking your travel habits, like using public transportation or carpooling more often. Conserve water: Be mindful of your water usage by fixing leaks, taking shorter showers, and watering plants efficiently. Water treatment and distribution require energy, so conserving water indirectly reduces carbon emissions. Adopt sustainable practices: Change your purchasing habits, try to buy less ‘stuff’, recycle and compost to reduce waste, choose reusable products over disposable ones, and opt for environmentally friendly alternatives such as cloth bags instead of plastic bags. Support renewable energy: Transition to renewable energy sources like solar or wind power for your home. If feasible, invest in solar panels or consider supporting renewable energy initiatives in your area. Eat a sustainable diet: Reduce your meat consumption, particularly beef and lamb, as livestock agriculture contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet and support local, organic, and sustainably sourced food options. Don’t buy bottled water if tap water is safe to drink in your area. Plant trees and support reforestation efforts: Trees absorb carbon dioxide and help mitigate climate change. Participate in tree-planting initiatives or support organizations working on reforestation projects. Trees4Travel does a great job at this! Stay informed and spread awareness: Educate yourself about climate change and its impacts. Share your knowledge with others, engage in discussions, and encourage sustainable practices in your community. Advocate for policy changes: Support political leaders and organizations that prioritize climate action. Contact your elected representatives to express your concerns and support policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable practices.     Remember, individual actions, when combined with collective efforts, can lead to meaningful change. By taking steps to reduce your impact and inspiring others to do the same, you can contribute to the broader movement toward reversing climate change.    How to Reduce Emissions While Travelling     Choose eco-friendly accommodations: Look for hotels and accommodations that have sustainability initiatives in place, such as energy-efficient practices, waste reduction, and water conservation measures. Pack light: The more weight you carry, the more fuel is consumed during transportation. Only pack essentials and opt for multi-purpose items to reduce overall luggage weight. Use public transportation or walk: Whenever possible, use public transportation like buses, trains, or trams to get around. If the distance is manageable, consider walking or cycling instead. Avoid single-use plastics: Take toiletries in reusable bottles so that they can be brought home again, plus bring a reusable water bottle, coffee cup, and shopping bag. It’s much better to refill a water bottle (as long as the water is safe to drink in the holiday destination) instead of buying plastic bottles. Say no to plastic straws and utensils that are offered on your trip. Support local businesses: When you can, opt for locally-owned accommodations, restaurants, and shops. Try to only purchase locally made gifts and pay a fair price. This helps the local economy and reduces the carbon footprint associated with imported goods. Respect the local environment and culture: Be mindful of the local customs, traditions, and the natural environment. Avoid activities that harm wildlife or damage fragile ecosystems - do not buy wildlife products such as ivory, tortoiseshells, coral, and shells, and ditch chemical sunscreens for reef-safe options. Conserve water and energy: Be conscious of water and energy usage. Turn off lights and air conditioning when leaving a hotel room, and reuse towels and linens. Go digital: If you can, avoid printing out travel documents and make use of digital alternatives.  Compensate carbon emissions: Anderson Vacations has partnered with Trees4Travel to plant 1 tree for every traveler. Trees4Travel translates a whole trip into trees and then backs up every tree with a share of investment into United Nations Renewable Energy (CER) Carbon Credits, a great way to give back to the planet and people.   This is a reminder that even small actions can make a significant difference and help minimize your environmental footprint!    Learn more about our partnership with Trees4Travel and how we are working to contribute to the well-being of our planet and its communities. 

  The State of Our Planet The science is now clear, we must reduce our emissions by half by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050 to help reverse climate change. Every single activity in our daily lives creates a carbon footprint. The energy and water we consume, the waste we generate, what we eat, how we shop, and when we travel. It is paramount that we begin to slow down our consumption, the planet simply cannot keep up. Reducing emissions where we are can and drawing down existing carbon that is currently in the atmosphere is vital to ensure a safe and sustainable world for our children and future generations. A carbon offset is a way to compensate for your carbon emissions by supporting projects that produce clean energy or reduce carbon emissions in other ways – a kind of balancing out or neutralizing of emissions. As an example, airplanes at this moment in time, cannot stop releasing emissions so, if we wish to continue to fly, we need to stop emissions from being released somewhere else - we can do this by maybe investing in renewable energy solutions such as solar panels to help power a factory that might have otherwise have used fossil fuels to generate electricity.   Carbon Offset Solutions   Renewable energy Renewable energy is energy that is collected from resources that are naturally replenished, including carbon-neutral sources like sunlight, wind, rain, tides, waves, and geothermal heat. Through investments renewable energy solutions are becoming more widely available and the renewables share of the power generation mix worldwide is set to rise from 29% to 35% by 2025.   Trees Trees absorb and store carbon emissions, then release oxygen into the air. They stand as one of our most effective carbon technologies. Scientists assert that they "know of no other solution that is quantitatively as large in terms of carbon capture." Earth once hosted 6 trillion trees; today, only about 3 trillion trees remain. Deforestation is the second-largest emitter of carbon at 20%, following power generation, the largest emitter at 25%. Existing forests around the world currently absorb approximately 30% of annual emissions. If we restore nature, we can achieve an additional carbon drawdown of 20 to 30%. Therefore, we need to protect existing forests and continue restoring those that have been destroyed.   Direct Air Carbon Capture (DACC) Direct Air Carbon Capture involves the process of chemically scrubbing carbon dioxide directly from the ambient air and then trapping the CO2, moving it to a storage location (usually underground). This technology generally uses renewable energy to power the solution, but as of yet, there isn’t enough green energy to do this and power our homes, businesses, and road transport. Fossil fuels are used to make up the difference, which lessens the impact of real progress in this area. This means that this technology still needs a lot of work to be efficient. Even so, carbon offsetting can help reach our reduction targets but should not be an excuse for inaction elsewhere. Transitioning from fossil fuels to clean energy will take time, and there is no silver bullet solution, but we must support climate action that reduces emissions and drives sustainable development. Carbon offsets/compensation solutions are therefore important and powerful tools while we wait for new technologies to be implemented.   The Travel Industy Travel is a very challenging industry to decarbonize, and although there have been skeptics around offset programs, the right high-quality projects can mitigate the immediate impact on the environment. Any carbon we can prevent from going into the atmosphere and any carbon we can remove from the atmosphere will help. By growing trees through reforestation, protecting existing forests (trees, of course, being one of our best carbon absorbers), and investing in renewables, we can significantly impact some of the most powerful mechanisms to help us move towards a green economy. Trees4Travel goes to great lengths to bring the very best possible compensation packages to travelers at an affordable price, with a positive impact on both the planet and people, now and into the future. We engage with travelers, tell stories, and track progress to emphasize that every action counts. We choose compensation partners and projects wisely to ensure the highest quality positive impact because we all have a role to play, so that we can all be part of the solution. We cannot reach net zero without a combination of approaches, with all of us actively trying to find ways to reduce our consumption, using carbon offsets, and growing forests. While the scientists and engineers of the world work on better solutions for transport and energy, we must all start the process towards positive change – remembering that making an impact is not achieved merely by the big efforts of the few, but rather by the sum of all the endeavors of many.   Learn more about our partnership with Trees4Travel and how we are working to contribute to the well-being of our planet and its communities.

  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