'It's wild, it's dramatic, it's peaceful': Travel expert reveals favourite destination
- Brought to you by Scenic.
People often ask, "What's your favourite destination?" – and honestly, it's a tough one. But if I had to narrow it down, Western Canada would definitely make the top five.
It's wild, it's dramatic, it's peaceful… and when you do it with Scenic, you do it with a touch of 5-star luxury.
Western Canada would definitely make the top five of my favourite destinations. Supplied
From the moment we touched down in Vancouver, I knew this was going to be something special.
Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and the sparkling harbour, it's no wonder it's been voted one of the most liveable cities in the world.
Scenic kept things easy from the start - with a small group and a flexible itinerary, it never felt rushed or cookie-cutter. Their Scenic Freechoice options meant I could pick and choose experiences that actually suited me.
This is a great way to travel… an adult version of choose your own adventure.
With Scenic you can experience stays at iconic Fairmont properties across Canada. Supplied
Float planes, Fairmonts and orcas: Victoria in style
One of the real highlights was flying over to Victoria by float plane. Yep, float plane. Even getting from A to B in Canada is an experience.
Victoria is stunning, full of elegance and history (including the beautiful Empress Fairmont Hotel) and the Butchart Gardens were incredible to see, even if gardening isn't exactly your thing.
Of course I chose the whale watching cruise as my Freechoice activity, and I'm so glad I did. Watching orcas glide through the water in their natural habitat? Unreal.
Let's just say the excitement levels were high - there may have been a few high-pitched squeals that would've impressed the orcas themselves.
Of course I chose the whale watching cruise as my Freechoice activity. Nine
All aboard the Rocky Mountaineer: Luxury on rails
Then came the part I'd heard so much about: the legendary Rocky Mountaineer, and not just in any old seat – we're talking GoldLeaf service.
This is Canadian luxury train travel at its finest. Think domed glass ceilings, gourmet meals, and a front-row seat to the kind of jaw-dropping scenery that makes you "pinch yourself" every five minutes.
Forests, rivers, canyons… and even a bear spotting that may or may not have made me spill my champagne on my cameraman.
The Rocky Moutaineer is Canadian luxury train travel at its finest. Supplied
Glacier peaks and grand stays: The magic of Lake Louise
Just when you think it can't get any better, you arrive in Lake Louise.
I'd seen the photos, but nothing compares to standing in front of that turquoise lake, framed by towering mountains carved by glaciers.
And then you walk into the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise – one of Scenic's Special Stays – and feel like you've stepped into a story book. The views from here are exactly what makes Western Canada so iconic.
There are plenty of chances for spotting wildlife. Getty
Scenic's Signature touch: Effortless, elevated travel
What stood out the most with Scenic though was how every little detail was taken care of. From the moment I arrived to the final goodbyes, I didn't have to lift a finger (except to raise a glass now and then).
Their team aren't just travel pros - they really care about your experience, and go out of their way to make it unforgettable.
So if you're after a holiday that combines jaw-dropping landscapes, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and a touch of indulgence, trust me, Western Canada delivers.
It's one of my favourites and for all you nature lovers… get the camera ready!
David Whitehill travelled as a guest of Scenic. Check out more of David Whitehill in the video below.
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