The number of Canadian tourists visiting the United States is increasing as the Canadian dollar approaches parity with the U.S. dollar. Strong currency has encouraged Canadians to travel to the States already last summer when the loonie, as Canada’s currency is called after the loon in the back of the dollar coin, reached its 28-year high against the US dollar. But while the loonie was worth 90 U.S. cents back then, the deal is even better for Canadians now. Currently, the loonie is being traded for 95 U.S. cents. Considering that a Canadian traveler would receive no more than some 62 U.S. cents for one Canadian dollar five years ago, this is a dramatic change. As a result, Canadian travel to the USA has increased by 23 percent within the past five years. Reportedly, some Canadian banks even had to dip into their reserves after running out of the green bills as more and more Canadians exchange their loonies for their trips south across the boarder.
New York, Florida and Washington are among the U.S. destinations that attract Canadian visitors the most. Another popular vacation spot is Old Orchard in Maine, which offers 7 miles of a sandy beach and is just a few hours of driving away from Quebec. And with gas being roughly one dollar cheaper in the United States than in Canada, those few hours behind the wheel are well worth it. Not even lengthy wait times at boarder crossings or chilly waters of the North Atlantic can discourage Canadians from enjoying an affordable vacation.
In accordance with the overall trend, the number of overnight trips from Canada to the U.S. has also been rising. Analysts conclude that strong currency has apparently helped Canadians to overcome concerns over the war in Iraq and the SARS scare that was haunting Canadian travelers three years ago.
According to currency strategists, the trend of the Canadian dollar approaching parity with its U.S. counterpart is likely to continue for a number of years. If the future is to prove the prognosis correct, we can expect Canadian travel to the United States to rise further.
July 18, 2007 No Comments
Travel and Leisure magazine’s Senior Editor, Heidi Sherman Mitchell recently suggested 5 inexpensive winter destinations for those looking to take a vacation after the hectic holiday season. The first thing you want to do is decide whether you want to go to a warm or cold spot. Then browse the internet for special deals on vacation packages. It’s peak season for areas with beaches or snow so plan your vacation early.
Mitchell’s top 5 winter destinations are:
1. Whistler, British Columbia: Whistler has become the “it” destination for winter. It’s set to host the Winter Olympics in 2010. If you love to ski, this is a great destination, because there’s great skiing as well as great non-ski activities. There are spas, great shopping, and dining. If you live on the West Coast, this is a definite must! Also, many of the locals are mostly between 20 and 34, so there’s a lot of ambient energy on the streets.
2. Lake Placid, N.Y.: A great place to visit if you live in the Northeast. The former Olympic site has a wide range of winter activities for both kids and adults. Visitors love the accessibility and family atmosphere.
3. Riviera Maya: Located on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, this area has become a popular destination for 2006. There’s so much going on there, and every range of spots for couples, families. You can find great flight deals right now, as well as some great hotel deals, because this region is trying to overcome the perception that Hurricane Wilma destroyed everything. The location is pretty much back in action and worth looking into.
4. Maui: We often think of Hawaii as a honeymooners’ location. But it’s a great vacation spot for those living on the West Coast. Maui boasts the Waianapanapa Black Sand Beach, a top-secret beach. The beaches of Maui are supposed to be some of the most glorious. If you are traveling during the winter season, you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Maui’s largest visitors, the humpback whale, during their mating season.
5. Los Angeles: The city is undergoing a transformation. For example, check out the newly-redesigned Sunset Tower Hotel, as well as the new Hollywood Roosevelt, where the current Hollywood “A-listers” love to party. You can also cruise Melrose, Sunset Blvd and have access to beaches, hiking up Will Rogers Park. The city also has a lot more culture, and more money has been poured into the arts. Los Angeles also isn’t too expensive, compared to New York or San Francisco. The large amusement parks are also nearby, so it’s great for families who want to go to Disneyland, but you can also look into Hollywood or see the Guggenheim Museum.
November 19, 2006 1 Comment
Our monthly reports tell you what countries and currencies offer the best deals. Travel and buy smart!