The thrice weekly flights will depart London Gatwick and arrive into St. John’s with a flight time of just 5 hours and 45 minutes

  The province of Newfoundland and Labrador, the most easterly point of Canada will soon be served by direct flights from London Gatwick, as announced on 15^th November by transatlantic carrier, WestJet.   The Canadian airline with routes across Canada, the US and Europe will fly from the London hub into St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador seasonally, from 1^st May to 25^th October 2024. With flights running three times a week (Sunday, Wednesday and Fridays) and taking just 5 hours and 45 minutes, one-way fares start from $393 (approx. £232) and are available to book online.   Further opening up the province’s accessibility, the new direct flight route will allow UK holidaymakers to discover the area with greater ease and provide a boost to the tourism sector. From the gateway of St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador visitors can explore the following highlights on an Atlantic Canadian adventure:   On the hunt for icebergs   One of the very best spots on earth to hunt for icebergs, each year the coast off of Newfoundland and Labrador welcomes hundreds of these magnificent ice structures and during peak iceberg season (from spring to early summer), visitors must take to the ocean to catch a glimpse.   Whether it’s by boat trip, paddling on a kayak or viewing from land, Iceberg Alley provides the best vantage point and chance of hunting icebergs during the season. Explore the famous Alley aboard the award-winning Iceberg Quest Ocean Tour for a two-hours boat ride, setting sail from Twillingate.   From $95 (approx. £56) per adult, $85 (approx. £50.10) per student (18-25), $70 (approx. £41.30) per child (9-17) and $60 (approx. £35.40) per child (2-8). https://icebergquest.com/experience-the-wonder/   Walk the Atlantic coast   Newfoundland and Labrador boasts 29,000km of stunning coastline, dotted with beaches, sea stacks and 300 hiking and walking trails with fabulous opportunities to observe seabirds, whales, icebergs and more. Reach some of the best views in the province by climbing the second highest peak on Newfoundland, Gros Morne. The 806-metre-high mountain can be reached via a difficult trail named after the former British Prime Minister, James Callaghan, but the views at the top of the glacial carved landscape are worth it.   For an easier walk, there’s the Skerwink Trail at Port Rexton where historical heritage and natural beauty collide. The 5.3km coastal hike along cliff tops and beaches begins by tracing the old railroad and then heading up the ancient sedimentary rock to Skerwink Head where walkers will be met with impressive views of Trinity Harbour.   Explore Cape Bonavista Lighthouse   Constructed in 1843, the Cape Bonavista is in a great spot for watching whales and puffins and holds Bonavista's generations-long maritime heritage. One of the few lighthouses still like it globally, visitors can venture up the stone tower to view the old-fashioned seal oil-powered catoptric light system, from the 1800s. Surrounding the lighthouse is stunning sights, soothing ocean waves and the refreshing sea air.   From $6 (approx. £3.50) per adult, $4 (approx. £2.40) per student/senior, children aged 16 & under are free. https://www.newfoundlandlabrador.com/plan-and-book/attractions/210574   Savour sea to plate dining in Twillingate   Join local guide and culinary specialist Crystal Anstey for a memorable meal on the beach in Twillingate, Newfoundland and Labrador. After foraging for wild ingredients, visitors are taken to the coast to enjoy the centuries old province tradition of a ‘boil up’ – cooking up a delicious picnic of mussels, lobsters and scallops over an open flame. The sound of gentle waves and the chance to see whales from the shore only add to the magic of what will be an unforgettable day.

  Atlantic Canada and American Tours International (ATI) have partnered to offer a unique travel experience to their customers. The partnership will provide unforgettable self-guided tours, with the best-selected itineraries through the stunning Atlantic Canada provinces.   The two will work together to reflect a shared commitment to providing high-quality travel experiences that showcase the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region. Through this collaboration, customers can expect a seamless travel experience through their own customized Travel Canada tours. American Tours International gives the option to book an already existing self-guided tour or customize their own itinerary, anywhere from a weekend getaway to a two-week explorer’s adventure through Atlantic Canada.     The itineraries will take travelers on a journey through the four provinces of Atlantic Canada:    New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island   Guests will have the opportunity to explore charming fishing villages, historic landmarks, and stunning natural landscapes.   VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jN3G7tHHXxc   Atlantic Canada is a hidden gem that deserves to be discovered, and the partnership with American Tours International showcases the best that the region has to offer. Travelers are sure to be captivated by the scenic landscapes and warmth of Atlantic Canadians.   ATI is delighted highlight Atlantic Canada and offer their customers a truly unique travel experience. The company has a strong reputation for delivering high-quality tours and has crafted stunning itineraries sure to create memorable journeys through this beautiful region.   Wonders of Atlantic Canada - New Brunswick     As the only province with both English and French as its official languages, New Brunswick is a hidden gem that offers a unique travel experience for those looking for a mix of adventure, history, and nature. From Saint John to Moncton and the Bay of Fundy Coast, explore the different cities and attractions with a variety of activities such as canoeing, whale watching, exploring historic sites and museums or by just relaxing by the coast. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse activities, New Brunswick is an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty of Canada.   itinerary (LINK TO PDF)    Book Now!   Wonders of Atlantic Canada - Newfoundland & Labrador     With its rugged coastline, stunning scenery, and rich history, Newfoundland & Labrador is a land of wonders with picturesque views and breathtaking scenery. The province offers an abundance of outdoor adventures, from hiking and kayaking to whale watching and iceberg viewing. Visitors can explore the oldest streets in North America in St. John’s (Duckworth Street and Water Street), visit Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve, or marvel at the beauty of Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Newfoundland & Labrador is also known for its friendly people, unique culture, and delicious seafood.   itinerary (LINK TO PDF)    Book Now!   Wonders of Atlantic Canada - Nova Scotia     Nova Scotia is a beautiful maritime province located in eastern Canada. The capitol city of Halifax is known for its rich history, stunning waterfront (which is one of the most popular attractions in the province), and delicious seafood (particularly scallops and its world-renowned Bay of Fundy lobster). Other smaller towns like Lunenburg and Yarmouth offer charming historic districts and eccentric coastal charm. Visitors to the province can explore the famous Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, where they can inspect a collection of wooden artifacts from the Titanic, hike in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park or visit the historic Fortress of Louisbourg. Travelers can also explore Nova Scotia’s wine country. With the convenient hop-on / hop-off bus, it is easy to travel from one winery to another and enjoy the scenery and the wine tastings. Overall, Nova Scotia is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Canada’s natural beauty and maritime culture.   itinerary (LINK TO PDF)    Book Now!   Wonders of Atlantic Canada - Prince Edward Island     The small island of Prince Edward Island in eastern Canada is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine – Canada’s food island. The island is famous for being the setting of the beloved novel, Anne of Green Gables, and visitors can explore the places that inspired the story, including Green Gables Heritage Place and the Anne of Green Gables Museum. Prince Edward Island is also home to gorgeous beaches, charming towns, and beautiful lighthouses, making it the perfect destination for anyone looking to relax and unwind in a picturesque setting. With friendly locals, fresh seafood, and laid-back atmosphere, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Canada.   itinerary (LINK TO PDF)    Book Now!   About the Atlantic Canada Agreement on Tourism (ACAT):    This program has been developed and distributed through funding provided by the Atlantic Canada Agreement on Tourism (ACAT). ACAT is a nine-member pan-Atlantic initiative comprising the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, the four Atlantic Canada Tourism Industry Associations, and the four Provincial Departments responsible for tourism.     About ATI:   With over 40 plus years of experience, American Tours International (ATI) is North America’s leading travel service provider. ATI is proudly partnering with over 20,000 hotels and attractions throughout North America and Canada. With their unique and market leading escorted Motorcoach Tours and their individual self-customized Drive America Tours, ATI gives their national as well as international clients the best experience of North America and Canada.  

  Only a six-hour flight from the UK, Nova Scotia is filled to the brim with stunning natural beauty, diverse cultures, rich heritage, and friendly people.  About the size of Scotland and home to just a million people, Nova Scotia is very much a road trip destination, with spectacular seaside and inland driving routes.   If you love the coast, this five day itinerary takes you through regions known for high tides, warm waters and scenic views which are sure to get some inspiration going!   Day 1 |Burntcoat Head Park to Shubenacadie: Come and walk, play and explore on the ocean floor at low tide at Burntcoat Head Park, home of the world's highest recorded tides where you can take a guided tour or explore the dramatic site on your own. Added bonus: experience the one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure - Tidal Bore Rafting: As 100 billion tons of water rushes into the Bay of Fundy, there is only so much space for it to travel and therefore the great tides actually reverse the flow of the river that would typically flow into the Bay. Nowhere else in the world can you find this kind of experience!   Day 2 | Advocate Harbour: Cape d’Or Lighthouse in the Cape d'Or Coastal Park is a great spot to witness the Bay of Fundy’s impressive tidal rips from the towering cliffs of this park. Here you can also enjoy a meal next to a lighthouse at the onsite restaurant known for their seafood and breathtaking views. For a unique overnight experience, visit the Lightkeepers Kitchen & Guest House, located just a few steps from the Cape d'Or Lighthouse in the converted Lightkeeper's residence. Outdoors enthusiast? explore Cape Chignecto Provincial Park, Nova Scotia’s largest provincial park featuring back-country and day-use trails, magnificent Bay of Fundy beaches, and camping; discover the Bay of Fundy by taking a sea kayaking tour with NovaShores Adventures where you will see impressive views of Cape Chignecto’s sea cliffs and famous “Three Sisters” rock formation; dine in one of Nova Scotia’s highest rated restaurants, Wild Caraway Restaurant & Café, offering an authentic taste of local Nova Scotia dining through the use of local and in season ingredients.   Day 3 | Wallace and Tatamagouche: Spend a day at the beautiful Fox Harb’r Resort, one of only five 5-star resorts in Canada, situated on the stunning Northumberland Shore where you can try out one of the many activities such as horseback riding, volleyball, or sea kayaking.  Explore the town of Tatamagouche and get a taste for the local craft beer, wine and cidery scene with a stop at Tatamagouche Brewing Co. or travel a few minutes north of Tatamagouche to Malagash to visit the award-winning Jost Vineyards or Malagash Cidery at Vista Bella Farm.   Day 4 | Liscomb: Make your way to Liscomb Mills where you can spend the night at Liscombe Lodge, go for a hike along a portion of the 9 km of hiking trails or simply relax and enjoy the solitude of the area overlooking the Liscomb River. Fancy taking a boat tour along the Liscomb River? A relaxing pontoon boat ride along the Liscomb River takes you into the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean with the Marina Supervisor and Captain. Top up the experience with a visit to the resort’s restaurant for a true maritime meal with a view of the river and the rugged Eastern Shore landscape.   Day 5 | Spry Bay to Lawrencetown: Hike the beautiful coastal trail system at Taylor Head Provincial Park, with pristine white sand beaches, rugged headlands, and sweeping views of the ocean and undeveloped coastline. Stop for lunch to refuel at the Henley House Pub & Restaurant or Sober Island Brewing Company before continuing along the Eastern Shore. Head to Lawrencetown and check-in at East Coast Surf School at Lawrencetown Beach Provincial Park to learn to ride the waves. If surfing isn’t your thing check out Lawrencetown Beach, Clam Harbour, Martinique, Rainbow Haven or one of the other beautiful beaches along the Eastern Shore.

  Atlantic Canada is a must-visit destination for 2023, bursting with new experiences for travellers looking for stunning landscapes and new experiences. Providing a memorable escape, the provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island are home to an array of gorgeous scenery, delicious culinary offerings and are full of opportunities for adventure. Read on for a round-up of new openings, experiences and exciting anniversaries from the region.  

NEW BRUNSWICK

  NEW The Kingston Spa at La Belle Cabane to open in spring 2023   A new wellness experience, The Kingston Spa at La Belle Cabane, is coming to New Brunswick in spring 2023. Built with sustainability in mind and aimed at providing wellbeing experiences, the spa located in the beautiful Kingston Peninsula, is focused on mental healing, incorporating self-worth, stress management and emotional healing. Paying homage to indigenous culture, the spa will utilise the surrounding landscape in its sessions to provide a one-of-a-kind relaxing experience.   https://www.labellecabane.com/kingstonspa.html 175th anniversary of Fredericton   New Brunswick’s capital city of Fredericton will be celebrating its 175^th anniversary on the 30^th of March 2023. Flag raising and a birthday cake celebration will be held at city hall on day with further celebrations to follow in August, including an ice cream social, arts, street entertainment and concerts. https://tourismnewbrunswick.ca/fredericton   Experience Le Pays de la Sagouine by NEW night trail   Opening in August 2023, the Lumina Night Walk is a new immersive experience at Le Pays de la Sagouine in Bouctouche, New Brunswick. Inspired by Acadian culture and crafted by Acadian artists and artisans, this immersive 1.5-kilometer enchanted walk will welcome guests to experience the area like never before. Featuring enchanting light shows and storytelling, immersive multimedia will be used to produce a captivating show of colour and light. https://sagouine.tuxedobillet.com/   NEW Indigenous experiences in Greater Saint John area   Three new Indigenous experiences are available to those visiting Saint John in New Brunswick this year. Designed to provide an understanding of Indigenous culture through storytelling, discover the origins of Saint John, Canada’s oldest incorporated city, and the local history of the Wolastoq and Mi’kmaq peoples from a unique Indigenous viewpoint. Through a series of walks and gathering over fires, visitors will learn about Indigenous groups and their relationships with the surrounding land, including the beautiful Wolastoq River and Fort la Tour – the archaeological site containing the remains of 17^th century fur trading. www.firstnationsstorytellers.com  

NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR

  Come From Away to come home to Gander in Summer 2023 The beloved musical Come From Away, celebrating the town and community of Gander that welcomed the world in extraordinary circumstances, will be coming home in the summer of 2023. Telling the remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded passengers in the aftermath of 9/11, visitors will be able to experience the musical in Gander itself where the story unfolded. Marking the first fully staged production in Newfoundland and Labrador, and featuring cast and musicians from Broadway, London, Toronto and the Canadian province, this show is not one to miss. The official run will be from the 22^nd July through to the 3^rd September, with tickets available to purchase now.  https://artsandculturecentre.com/gander/   Gander Airport’s International Lounge Reopens   The restoration on the Gander Airport’s international lounge is officially over. Opened in 1959 by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, this historic spot is one of the most famous places in Newfoundland and Labrador. Serving as a stopping point for travellers and celebrities, it is said to be Canada’s most important room as it reopens to host world travellers once again. Guests can encounter its vast history whist they marvel at the celebrities and politicians that have visited this fascinating space. Features of the lounge include art, a theatre and artisanal cocktail bar, all whilst keeping the glamour of its original design. https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/gander-international-airport-lounge   Be Road Trip Ready this 2023 on the Trans-Labrador Highway   Completed in mid-2022, this new road allows visitors to travel on more than 1,100 kilometers of pristine paved highway between the Labrador Straits and Labrador West. Before the completion of this highway, much of this route was unpaved, but bumpy roads are no more for travellers and locals set on exploring. This route is home to the dense and vast wilderness along with its scenic and coastal route ends. The possibilities are endless for travellers seeking a new adventure in 2023, with endless stops and Insta-worthy shots along the way, now is the perfect time to ride the road of discovery and experience Newfoundland and Labrador like never before.   https://www.newfoundlandlabrador.com/trip-ideas/road-trips-landing   Fogo Island Inn celebrates its 10^th anniversary    The renowned Fogo Island Inn is celebrating its 10-year anniversary in 2023 and with a newly expanded year-round direct air service from Toronto to Gander, this unique corner of the world will now be even more accessible. From the 1st of June 2023, guests can travel more frequently with Air Canada direct from Toronto to Fogo Island, before taking a ground or water transfer to the remote island and inn. Since opening on the 15th May 2013, the unique resort has continuously provided memorable experiences for visitors to one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s most beautiful islands. To mark the occasion, full-time permanent residents of Fogo Island and Change Islands will be invited to spend a complimentary night as guests, demonstrating the long-standing commitment to the local community. https://www.newfoundlandlabrador.com/plan-and-book/accommodations/30123335  

NOVA SCOTIA

  Climb the Light at Cape Forchu   Reopening in 2023 is the Climb the Light Experience at Cape Forchu in Nova Scotia. Guests can climb the seventy-seven steps of the lighthouse until they reach the lantern room, where picturesque panoramic views of the landscape and boundless sea awaits. With prices starting from just £9.50 per adult, visitors can soak up the history of the site and its surrounding areas and be a lightkeeper for a day. After the historic tour, there is a breath-taking beach to experience or guests can stroll through the museum for a second dose of history. The fun doesn’t stop there as Cape Forchu spoils its guests with more opportunities, such as stargazing and a whale display, where guests can view real whale skeletons. https://capeforchu.com/   Nova Scotia’s first Marriot Autograph Collection Hotel Situated in the centre of downtown Halifax, the new Muir, Autograph Collection is Nova Scotia’s first Marriot Autograph Collection Hotel. Ideally located with scenic views and access to the exciting culinary district, the modern hotel is perfectly located for exploration of this distinctive location. The impressive 5-star property hosts 109 guest rooms and picturesque views of the waterfront. https://www.novascotia.com/places-to-stay/accommodations/muir-hotel/8129   Culinary adventure at the NEW Queen’s Marque District The new Queen’s Marque District and Halifax waterfront is a must-visit for foodies. Since opening the area has become a culinary destination in its own right, with a hot pot of flavours to choose from. Ranging from authentic Argentine dishes at Bar Sofia, to a Parisian-inspired eatery at Café Lunette and traditional Nova Scotian seafood at newly opened Salt + Ash, there is a huge variety of choices for those looking for a delicious meal after a busy day exploring the beautiful Canadian province. New for 2023, Swanky Burger will be serving old school classic burgers and Toridori – an impressive Asian fusion restaurant, will be bringing an expansive collection of noodle creations, from Malaysia to Japan. https://muirhotel.com/queens-marque-local-dining/  

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

  Unwind at Prince Edward Island’s First Nordic Spa and Resort   Nestled in the picturesque scenery of St. Peter’s Harbour is an all-new Nordic Spa and Resort opening early next year.  Guests can enjoy the tranquillity of Mysa’s ‘Thermal Experience’, where they can relax and unwind by lounging in a pool of water that cycles through hot and cold that’s said to put you in a state of total relaxation. Featuring 17 water-view accommodations, guests can explore the 16 immersions on this resort - including thermal baths and Nordic cold baths. After a day of reinvigorating relaxation, enjoy the on-site restaurant with a comprehensive and balanced menu, sourcing sustainable produce from their very own on-site gardens or local supply. https://mysanordicspa.com/   Conservation countdown begins for Province House National Historic Site   Conservation has been well underway for some time at this hub of Canadian history, but in 2023, Province House is ready to welcome visitors back after its 8-year restoration. The Charlottetown landmark, that has been under conservation since 2015, is getting a new lease of life this coming year. Visitors will be able to take in the grand surroundings while absorbing its rich history. As the setting of the Charlottetown Conference in 1864, this building is famous for being the birthplace of Canada. This historic meeting with delegates from colonies including Nova scotia and New Brunswick, triggered further discussions that led to the creation of the Dominion of Canada in 1867. With new exhibits being developed, now is the perfect time for history lovers everywhere to be one of the first to see history restored to its former glory. https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/pe/provincehouse/activ

  North Cape Coastal Drive

                                                             

Canada is reportedly set to announce it will eliminate pre-arrival Covid testing for vaccinated arrivals. It will be lifted by the end of March, according to government sources. Current rules require travellers to present proof of a negative antigen test taken within 24 hours of arrival or a PCR test taken within 72 hours. Travel and business groups have been lobbying hard for an end to pre-arrival testing. “The current travel measures in place are a barrier to travel,” the Global Business Travel Association said.