Uncover a year-round paradise in Vancouver

11 October 2024

Nestled between the stunning Pacific Ocean and majestic mountains, Vancouver is a city that promises both urban charm and outdoor thrills. Known globally for its liveability, Vancouver offers a mild climate, eclectic neighbourhoods, and a vibrant arts scene. Picture wandering through independent boutiques, exploring bustling farmers’ markets, or dining in world-class restaurants. It’s one of those places that is charming in all seasons, so we’ve picked out some of our favourite luxury experiences for whenever you choose to visit.

Uncover a year-round paradise in Vancouver

Winter - book a box at Rogers Arena to watch the Canucks

The National Hockey League normally runs from early October to early April, so come to Vancouver in winter and you can splurge on seats in a box to watch the mighty Canucks in action. The buzz surrounding a game can be felt on city streets even miles away from Rogers Arena. The build-up is accompanied by the smell of beer, popcorn, and hot dogs from the concession stands and rock ’n’ roll blasting from the sound system, and you can stroll around the concourse to take in sights, including the Luc Bourdon Wall of Dreams and a display of hockey pucks honouring British Columbia’s hockey history. And when the puck drop happens, you can’t help but get caught up in the emotion and excitement emanating from around 18,000 passionate fans.

Spring – book a hotel suite overlooking Stanley Park’s cherry blossoms

As Vancouver’s rainy season evaporates, spring delights city dwellers and visitors with milder temperatures and the glorious sight of around 40,000 cherry trees bursting with pink and white blooms. One of the best places to see Vancouver’s cherry blossoms is Stanley Park, which has rows of trees near the formal rose garden and the Japanese Canadian WWI war memorial. On a peninsula at the northwestern edge of downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park also has gorgeous beaches, paved and dirt trails to explore, a water park, a miniature railway, and around half a million cedar, fir, and hemlock trees. Vancouver’s oldest park, it’s been ‘greenspace’ designated for nearly 130 years.

Summer – soar over the city on a private floatplane tour

While San Francisco has its trolley cars and Venice its gondolas, Vancouver has flying Beavers and Otters. Beavers are small, single-engine 1950s-era prop-powered floatplanes that buzz in and out the Strait of Georgia throughout the day. Along with slightly larger Otters, they are used for various flightseeing tours. These can range from a 30-minute trip circling the skyline and surrounding coastal islands, to a hop over to British Columbia's capital city. Or you can go to a tiny lake deep in the Canadian wilderness for backcountry fishing and camping, or on an action-packed excursion to Whistler.

Autumn – head into the forest to see the salmon run

Running from late August into December, the salmon run sees these majestic fish swim upstream to spawn in small creeks. As they battle their way upstream, fighting powerful currents and leaping over cascading waterfalls, the glistening salmon make for a spectacular sight. From your Vancouver base you can get a private vehicle to witness this phenomenon by an experienced guide who will be able to talk you through not just the salmons incredible life cycle but all about the flora and fauna in the temperate rainforests around the city, if you really want to clear your head you could also do some forest bathing at the same time.

To book your Vancouver holiday, call your Travel Counsellor today.

Discover the magic of the Pacific with Regent’s 2028 World Cruise

23 April 2025

If you’re someone who dreams about oceans stretching to the horizon, exotic ports of call, and the kind of luxury that feels effortless, Regent’s ‘Legends of the Pacific’ 2028 World Cruise might be for you. Setting sail on 5th January 2028, this incredible 133-night voyage aboard the Seven Seas Splendor weaves together an itinerary of jaw-dropping destinations and onboard comforts. With prices starting at £70,000 per person, this all-inclusive adventure offers unparalleled value for world travellers seeking once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Here’s a closer look at what makes this voyage more than just another cruise across the Pacific.

A Greek island-hopping holiday you'll never forget

22 April 2025

There’s a reason Greece is one of the most sought-after holiday destinations, and this itinerary offers the perfect mix of relaxation and the opportunity to explore. Whether you’re soaking up the ancient wonders of Athens, enjoying the peaceful charm of Paros, or capturing iconic snapshots in Santorini, this holiday will refresh your soul and provide memories to last a lifetime.

Why Scenic’s European river cruises are unlike any other

21 April 2025

Few travel experiences allow you to immerse yourself in the heart of Europe like a river cruise. Gliding along shimmering waterways, you’ll pass rolling vineyards, medieval castles, and bustling cities brimming with culture. Whether you’re dreaming of tasting wines in Bordeaux, uncovering the history of the Rhine Valley, or indulging in the tranquillity of winter sun on the Douro River, Scenic offers you a world of discovery in unrivalled elegance.