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.

Calgary, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant community spirit, transforms into a winter wonderland when the snow begins to fall. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or someone who prefers cozy winter outings, there's something for everyone in this beautiful city during the colder months. In this blog post, we'll take you on a journey through some of Calgary's top winter activities, both indoor and outdoor! Chinook Blast - A Winter Arts Festival: Chinook Blast is an annual event that transforms downtown Calgary into a magical winter playground. The festival showcases dazzling light installations, captivating art displays, and interactive performances that take place throughout the city. You can wander through Stephen Avenue and discover larger-than-life art installations, participate in winter-themed workshops, and enjoy live music and dance performances. Don't miss the opportunity to witness Calgary's artistic community coming to life amid the winter chill. Ice Skating at City Rinks: Calgary boasts an array of outdoor skating rinks that provide a perfect backdrop for winter fun. Whether you're a seasoned skater or just learning, you'll find rinks scattered across the city, including Olympic Plaza and Bowness Park. Skating on these well-maintained frozen ponds, surrounded by snow-covered trees and the crisp winter air, is an experience that captures the essence of Canadian winters. Grab your skates and twirl your way into the heart of Calgary's winter traditions. Winsport Olympic Park: Beyond SkiingWhile Winsport Olympic Park is renowned for its skiing and snowboarding slopes, there is more than just your standard downhill tracks to explore. Get your adrenaline pumping by taking a freestyle skiing lesson with their seasoned coaches. Grab a tube and head up to the top of the tube park for a more leisurely adventure, providing stunning views of Calgary's winter beauty. Plus, the Olympic Park is a living testament to Calgary's role as host of the 1988 Winter Olympics, making it a must-visit destination for sports enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Hot Chocolate Festival - Warmth for the Soul: Calgary Hot Chocolate Festival is an annual charity fundraiser event that will warm your heart during the chilly winter days. Calgary's top cafes and chocolatiers participate by crafting unique and delectable hot chocolate creations. From classic rich and creamy cups to inventive concoctions that feature exotic spices and toppings, there's a hot chocolate for every palate. Each participating establishment supports a local charity, so you can indulge in deliciousness while contributing to a good cause. Plan a hot chocolate tasting tour and discover your favorite winter beverage. Cross Country Skiing Across The City: Instead of just sticking to the slopes, why not try cross-country skiing? Calgary offers an extensive network of groomed cross-country ski trails that wind through parks and natural areas. Whether you're a seasoned skier or new to the sport, this activity allows you to discover the serene winter beauty of Calgary. Glide along the trails at your own pace, enjoying the crisp winter air and the tranquility of the snow-covered landscapes. It's a fantastic way to stay active and connect with nature during the winter months. Gasoline Alley at Heritage Park: A Step Back in Time:Heritage Park's Gasoline Alley is a unique attraction that transports you back in time. During the winter months, this exhibit is a perfect place to enjoy vintage automobiles while staying warm indoors. See memorabilia, interactive displays, and historic artifacts that provide a glimpse into Calgary's automotive history. It's a fascinating journey for history enthusiasts and families looking for an educational yet entertaining winter outing. Studio Bell: Music and Winter Magic:Studio Bell is a cultural gem nestled in the heart of Calgary. During the winter months, it offers a unique escape for music enthusiasts. Explore five floors of exhibitions, interactive displays, and music-related artifacts that showcase Canada's rich musical history. Studio Bell's winter programming often includes special events, workshops, and live performances, allowing you to immerse yourself in the world of music and creativity. It's a warm and inviting destination for those seeking a harmonious winter experience. Calgary Tower: A Bird's-Eye View of Winter:Calgary Tower, an iconic city landmark, offers a remarkable winter experience. Ride the elevator to the observation deck, where you'll be treated to panoramic views of the snow-covered city and the surrounding Rocky Mountains. As the sun sets, the city's twinkling lights create a magical winter wonderland. It's an ideal spot for capturing breathtaking photos and experiencing the charm of Calgary's winter nights. Calgary Zoo: A Winter Safari:The Calgary Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months. Explore the zoo's winter exhibits, where you can encounter animals adapted to snowy climates, such as the playful penguins and majestic Siberian tigers. Starting in January, guests can see the Emperor Penguins march through the snowy grounds. Bundle up and witness the waddle through the zoo's pathways. It's a unique and memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Savor Alberta's Winter Flavours on a Food Tour:While winter in Calgary offers a plethora of outdoor adventures, don't miss the chance to embark on a culinary exploration of Alberta's winter harvest. Join an Alberta Food Tour in Calgary to discover the city's vibrant food scene. Taste seasonal delights like locally sourced root vegetables, hearty stews, and savory pies that warm the soul during the colder months. Calgary's culinary artisans take pride in showcasing the province's winter bounty, and this food tour promises a delectable journey through the flavors of Alberta's frosty season. It's a delightful way to experience the city's gastronomic treasures while staying cozy and satisfied. Calgary's winter activities offer a diverse range of experiences, from artistic celebrations to outdoor adventures, historical journeys, and cultural explorations. Whether you're skating beneath the open sky, sipping hot chocolate for a cause, or ascending to new heights at the Calgary Tower, the city invites you to embrace the season's magic. So, bundle up, step outside, and discover the warmth of winter in this vibrant and dynamic city.

Anderson Vacations Chosen As Favourite Tour Operator for Domestic Canada! Every year, Baxter Media, publishers of Canadian Travel Press, Travel Courier, and OFFSHORE travel Magazine, sends out a survey to travel consultants for the Agent's Choice Awards. This year over 6500 advisors responded and picked their favourites from hundreds of Canadian and International travel trade companies.  Anderson Vacations is honoured to have been chosen as the Favourite Tour Operator for Domestic Canada. We received over 1500 points while being up against behemoths like Westjet Vacations, Air Canada Vacations and Rocky Mountaineer. We were also chosen as favourite tour operator in Western Canada, towering over the competition by over 150 points. In every category nominated, Anderson Vacations made it into the top 10 choices.  This award is a testament to the hard work our staff have been putting in in the last year. Countless late nights, early mornings, and meticulous attention to detail have allowed us to build the bridges towards this recognition. Without our dedicated staff sharing their passion for travel, we wouldn't be where we are today. To top it off, our own Darcie Guarderas was chosen as Favourite Supplier Representative! Darcie's commitment to the travel industry shines through her passion for making genuine connections with travel advisors. Through the Happy Hour Series, she showcases lesser known Canadian and South Pacific destinations and provides tips, tricks and the best possible advice for getting clients out travelling.  We would like to take a moment to thank every travel advisor who made this award possible. We would be nothing without their devotion to getting their clients their dream trip. We've got so many more adventures to plan and cannot wait to work with you!

"A Taste of Haida Gwaii"   We would like to highly recommend that if you are planning on visiting Haida Gwaii, to read and sign the Haida Pledge to ensure you are respecting the land, people and wildlife. Please use the following link to take the Pledge: https://haidagwaiipledge.ca/    From quaint coastal villages and beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see to quirky famous authors and some of the friendliest people you may ever encounter - Haida Gwaii is a place that will capture your eyes and your heart. Here is a "Taste of Haida Gwaii" as coined by Susan Musgraves, an accomplished poet, author and long-time Haida Gwaii ambassador.     1. People of the Island     Credit: Northern BC Tourism/Marcus Paladino   First and foremost, Haida Gwaii is home to the Haida People, an Indigenous group with a rich and complex history. The Haida have lived on these lands for thousands of years and their culture is deeply intertwined with the natural world surrounding them. From the moment you land, you will feel a warm sense of welcome and friendliness from the Island People - whether it be a quick smile and hello or a wave from oncoming traffic to being welcome into their homes for a meal. We encourage travellers to embrace the community and really immerse themselves in conversations with the locals as that is one of the best parts of Haida Gwaii.     2. Natural Beauty         Haida Gwaii is known as an archipelago that is located on the edge of the world, with an abundance of unique wildlife, including black bears, wolves, and Sitka deer. You will journey down winding roads through lush forests, past rugged coastlines and rock beaches that stretch on as far as the eye can see. There will be times when you are the only person in sight for kilometres on end, adding to the remoteness of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. There are several National and Provincial Park reserves located on the islands, the most notable being Gwaii Haanas, which is often compared to the Galapagos Islands for its encompassing range of ecosystems and wildlife habits. Haida Gwaii’s climate produces lush vegetation making it an absolute dream for those who don’t have a green thumb in the gardening department.     3. Culture         As mentioned above, Haida Gwaii is the ancestral territory of the Haida Nation with some of the world’s richest and oldest heritage. The Haida Nation are the original land keepers and have traditionally occupied the region for over 14,000 to 19,000 years ago. All Haida belong to one of two social groups - the Eagle or the Raven which can be sometimes referred to as moieties or clans. Embrace yourself into the land and go out searching for towering totem poles carved from trees that are over 600 years old that tell the stories of the ancestors that came before them. Take a must-do stop at the Haida Heritage Centre and Museum located near the ancient village site of HiGaagilda where you can explore the stunning site, with options to participate in canoe tours, carving tours and totem pole tours. We do highly recommend taking the Haida Pledge (link above) as it will provide you with guidelines on how to respectfully explore the island, and engage with the local people, culture and natural world.    4. Wildlife    Credit: Northern BC Tourism/ Shayd Johnson     Known as Canada’s Galapagos, Haida Gwaii is a nature lovers' paradise with rugged landscapes, ancient forests and diverse marine life. One of the most iconic animals on Haida Gwaii is the black bear. These majestic creatures can be found throughout the forest and along the shoreline. Another animal commonly spotted on the islands is the bald eagle which is a symbol of strength and freedom and are highly revered by the Haida People for thousands of years. A unique animal to Haida Gwaii is the black-tailed deer, which is slightly smaller than its mainland counterparts. Although they are shy and elusive, you may get the chance to encounter one of these beautiful animals. As for marine life, commonly spotted are Humpback whales and Orcas which typically can be spotted during the summer months when they migrate to the area to feed. It is believed by the Haida, that if an Orca makes its way into the inlet, someone in the village is going to pass as these animals are very connected to the spiritual world.     5. Culinary       You may be surprised to hear that a remote island with very little access to fresh produce has some absolutely delicious places to dine and is also one of the best places to forage in the world. With a strong, thriving ecosystem, there is what seems to be an endless supply of mushrooms and fungi, alongside some of the freshest seafood. Stop for a fresh cup of coffee at JAGS Beanstalk in HlGaagilda (Skidegate) or if you’re looking for a traditional Haida meal, we highly recommend trying Keenawai's Kitchen (Make sure to call in advance). Or as you are driving up towards Port Clements, keep your eye out for Fork in Port - an adorable trailer on the side of the highway that serves fresh baked goods and delicious hand-held meals to go. If you are looking for a finer dining experience in Haida Gwaii, either take your shot at Blacktail in Daajing Giids or have a hearty lunch at Gather. We do recommend bringing snacks with you for the long drives as there are not too many grocery stores on the island.

Alberta is a land of great beauty, with a rich cultural heritage that extends back thousands of years. For those interested in learning about the Indigenous peoples who have lived here for millennia, there are many places guests can visit that offer insights into their customs, traditions, and ways of life. Here are just five of the many places in Alberta that offer visitors the chance to learn from Indigenous peoples and gain a deeper appreciation of the rich storied history and culture. 1. Warrior Women, located on the traditional territories of the Danezaa (Beaver), Nêhiyawak (Cree), Anishinaabe (Ojibway), Secwépemc (Shuswap), Stoney Nakoda, and Métis NationWarrior Women is a cultural experience that offers immersive experiences led by Indigenous guides in Jasper. Visitors can experience traditional drumming, medicine walks, and storytelling, as well as learn about the history and traditions of the Indigenous peoples of the area, including the Stoney Nakoda, who have lived there for thousands of years. 2. Metis Crossing, located on the traditional territories of the Metis NationMetis Crossing is a cultural gathering place that offers visitors a chance to learn about the Metis people of Alberta. The site includes a museum, a traditional village, and a river crossing that was used by fur traders and Indigenous peoples for centuries. Visitors can participate in workshops on traditional crafts, storytelling, and dancing, and learn about the rich history and culture of the Metis Nation. 3. Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park, located on the traditional territories of the Nitawahsin (Blackfoot Confederacy)Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that features unique rock formations and carvings created by Indigenous peoples over 2,000 years ago. Visitors can participate in guided tours led by Indigenous interpreters and learn about the history and culture of the area's Blackfoot people, who have lived on this land for thousands of years. 4. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, located on the traditional territories of the Nitawahsin (Blackfoot Confederacy)Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is another UNESCO World Heritage site that is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Alberta's Indigenous peoples. The site includes a museum and interpretive center that features exhibits on the area's Indigenous history, as well as guided tours led by knowledgeable Indigenous guides who share the rich traditions and stories of the Blackfoot Confederacy. 5. Heritage Park, located on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot, Tsuut’ina, Îyârhe Nakoda, and Metis NationAt Heritage Park, guests can participate in a range of activities that showcase the rich diversity of Indigenous cultures in the region, including traditional teepees and demonstrations of hunting and fishing techniques. With guided tours led by knowledgeable Indigenous guides, visitors can learn about the histories and traditions of the Tsuut'ina people, who have called this area home for thousands of years. By visiting these sites and engaging with Indigenous guides and communities, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation of the rich and enduring legacy of Alberta's Indigenous peoples.