Ditching the USA? Canada Beckons with Familiar Charms and Fresh Adventures
Skyscrapers and sun-drenched Californian beaches might have once topped your dream vacation list. But have you found yourself looking elsewhere since the Trump era? You’re not alone. Compared to the same period in 2024, the number of travelers from Western Europe to the United States has dropped by roughly 17% in March, and by 7% since the start of the year. So, what’s the alternative? Perhaps Canada is calling. Offering a familiar North American vibe with its own distinct flavor, Canada presents a compelling option for those seeking adventure and a change of scenery.
"Traveling to Canada is less expensive than to the United States," says Marie-Julie Gagnon, a Quebecois journalist specializing in travel. It’s a sentiment echoed by travel professionals and tourists alike. The perceived value, combined with Canada’s inherent appeal, is proving to be a powerful draw.
"It’s a country that we’re proud to say we’ve visited," enthuses Florence Puech, media manager at Destination Canada, highlighting the country’s positive image and reputation. She quickly adds, "A safe destination," emphasizing a key factor for many travelers.
Amélie Prudhomme, a travel specialist for the United States and Canada at Voyageurs du Monde, confirms the trend. "We are guiding as many of our travelers as possible towards Canada." This shift isn’t just anecdotal; it reflects a growing demand for Canadian experiences.
For those "lovers of the USA who want to take road trips," shares Matthieu Mariotti, deputy director of the travel agency Kuoni, Canada offers similar thrills with its own unique landscapes and culture.
Let’s take a closer look at a country that seems to tick all the boxes, offering compelling alternatives to American classics and forging its own unforgettable path.
Jurassic Park Without the Theme Park Crowds: Alberta’s Dinosaur Provincial Park
Imagine a natural site straight out of your wildest imagination. Welcome to Dinosaur Provincial Park in Alberta, where you could almost believe you’ve stumbled onto the set of Jurassic Park. Significantly less touristy than the Grand Canyon, this park provides a spectacular experience with its otherworldly rock formations.
"It’s like stepping foot on the moon," marvels Marie-Julie Gagnon, author of several travel books. "Looking at the canyons and hoodoos, you can almost see the dinosaurs that roamed there thousands of years ago." She considers it an ideal location for paleontology enthusiasts, offering a chance to connect with ancient history in a breathtaking setting. The vastness of the landscape and the palpable sense of deep time make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Trade Palm Trees for Towering Pines: Vancouver Island’s Coastal Charms
Beaches, surfers, and Venice Beach – that’s the postcard image of California. However, those who dream of wild, untouched beaches can find their happiness further north, on Vancouver Island, where nature sets the pace.
"It has a Californian vibe, with added freshness," assures Amélie Prud’homme. Its Pacific coastline and giant trees give it a singular charm. The village of Tofino, with its Cox Bay beach, attracts surfers from around the world. Like Malibu, it’s the perfect place for a run along the shore or to tame the waves. This location combines the spirit of Santa Cruz in the western United States, without the palm trees, but with the addition of forests and mountains. Ready to cast off the moorings?
Vancouver Island provides a rugged, untamed alternative to the manicured beaches of Southern California. The combination of surfing, hiking, and breathtaking scenery creates a truly immersive experience.
Rev Up Your Engine: Alberta’s Answer to Route 66
Craving adventure? If the mythical Route 66 in the United States enchants you with its striking views and retro motels, Alberta invites you on an equally magical adventure on the Icefields Parkway. Known as Highway 93, it winds through the majestic Canadian Rockies, alongside turquoise lakes and gigantic forests.
"Rocky Mountains as beautiful as in the USA," exclaims Amélie Prud’homme, who doesn’t hesitate to compare Alberta to the American West (Utah, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana). This comparison highlights the striking similarities in the landscape, while emphasizing the distinct Canadian character. The Icefields Parkway is more than just a road; it’s a journey through the heart of the Canadian wilderness.
Urban Vibes with a Canadian Twist: Toronto’s Metropolitan Allure
If you’re drawn to metropolises, Toronto will charm you. With its skyscrapers, such as the First Canadian Place, which resembles Chicago’s Aon Center, the city offers an urban setting worthy of the great American cities.
"Visitors can discover iconic places like the CN Tower," announces Destination Toronto. A tower of 553.33 meters, perfect for gaining some altitude. And just like the Midwest metropolis, the city enjoys a dream location on the edge of Lake Ontario, perfect for the summer. "The pleasant temperatures are perfect for experiencing adventures on the Toronto Islands," reminds the tourist organization.
Culturally, the city doesn’t disappoint. The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), which attracts visitors from all over the world, is a perfect example. "The city shines like a true mosaic of languages." Toronto combines the dynamism of a major urban center with a unique multicultural identity, creating a vibrant and engaging environment.
Lights, Camera, Canada! Discovering the Silver Screen’s Secret
And what if you went in the footsteps of your favorite series and films? No Hollywood here, but for movie buffs, a trip to the land of filming is a must-see adventure. "Western Canada is experiencing a sharp increase in demand, largely thanks to the series and films that have been shot there," confides Matthieu Mariotti, from the Kuoni travel agency.
This phenomenon, which is called set-jetting – a contraction of set (filming set) and jetting (traveling quickly) – is attracting more and more travelers. Series like The Last of Us or Virgin River have chosen Canada as a backdrop. "It’s a good alternative to the western United States because the plot is supposed to take place there," continues the tour operator’s deputy director. Although Virgin River is supposed to take place near Los Angeles, many scenes were actually filmed in British Columbia. And what if you crossed the line from screen to reality?
Canada offers a compelling blend of familiar North American experiences and unique landscapes and cultural offerings. Whether you’re seeking dramatic geological formations, pristine beaches, stunning mountain vistas, vibrant city life, or a glimpse into the world of film, Canada provides a refreshing alternative to the well-trodden paths of the United States. So, pack your bags, embrace the maple leaf spirit, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure north of the border.
