Agree to Disagree

Canadian travel is the best, eh?

If I had a few more lifetimes, and climate change weren’t wreaking havoc all around, I might visit captivating faraway destinations. But in this lifetime, I’m too enchanted with Canada, and too aware of how much more of our astonishing country I have yet to see. (Yes, I realize that travel within Canada involves emitting carbon whether I’m flying, driving or taking a ferry or train.)

So many Canadians head south year after year, but never bother to experience other provinces. A surprising number of local people have never visited Montreal or even Ottawa.

Travel in Canada means supporting Canadian communities and businesses. I like spending my travel dollars in places that don’t trample the rights of women and LGBTQ+ folks, or where autocratic regimes skim profits from a population in poverty.

Mostly, though, I’m just head-over-heels about the incredible country we share. I have seen such beauty, enjoyed so many friendly conversations and learned so much. Canada would benefit enormously from more of us travelling here at home, gleaning greater understanding of our similarities and respect for our differences as we do.

I never cease to be amazed that we get to live in a country where I can stand in a Saskatchewan grassland and not hear a single human-made sound, watch waves crash into Newfoundland cliffs, walk Quebec City’s stone ramparts, and sit transfixed at a Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw dance on a B.C. island, all without once pulling out my passport.

I’ve visited every province, most more than once, and every time, I come away aware of how much there is still to explore — not to mention the three territories that I haven’t even started on.

Travelling in Canada strengthens our country, sure, but I daresay it’s made me a better person. The joy it’s brought me? That’s purely selfish.

– Nancy Payne is a regular contributor to the Advocate.

Beach hair, don’t care: Head south for the holidays

I would like to think I’m a patriotic Canadian but to be honest I haven’t taken the opportunity to travel outside of Ontario or Quebec. With limited vacation time and resources, most of my holidays thus far have been to tropical destinations where my days are filled with snorkelling, beach walks and exotic culinary delights.

Travelling south in the winter offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, and, let’s be real, a week off from shovelling snow. The sound of crashing waves, warm sand beneath my toes, and the gentle ocean breeze creates a calming recharge that is next to none. It’s my happy place.

In contrast, Canadian travel might involve more active planning, which can be invigorating but much less relaxing, in my book. Opting for an all-inclusive package to a tropical climate featuring luxurious amenities, gourmet dining and the promise of a seamless getaway is too hard to pass up.

There is also something magical about climbing the Mayan pyramids in Mexico, exploring the lush rainforests in Costa Rica or sailing on a catamaran off the coast of Cuba, that make you feel more connected to the wider world. I have always been intrigued with the vibrant traditions and customs of countries to our south. Some of my favourite memories of trips past are wandering through villages and experiencing such warm hospitality. Embracing the unfamiliar and engaging in conversations with the locals is highly recommended. You will meet some of the friendliest and kind people and most likely head home with a beautiful piece of handcrafted jewelry or trinket.

And while my passport hasn’t opened since pre-COVID, I’ll be dreaming about my next venture south, full of vitamin D, new experiences, and maybe a cerveza or two.

– Rebekah McCracken is the editor of the Advocate.