Canadian Rockies & Pacific Northwest USA

The resort town of Banff is situated in its namesake park, the oldest in Canada, surrounded by the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains. Its enchanting and scenic landscape is home to wildlife such as moose, mountain goats, brown and black bears, lynx, wolves and coyotes. Having emerged as a tourist destination, Banff seduces visitors with its unique atmosphere and is perfect for shopping, wandering through art exhibitions and eating in first-class restaurants.

Jasper National Park is a destination not to be missed when visiting Western Canada. With a landscape boasting crystal-clear lakes, majestic mountain peaks, glaciers and luscious forests, Jasper is a great alternative to the often more crowded Banff, with its breathtaking scenery in the Canadian Rockies even earning it a place as a UNESCO site. Enjoy hikes in the wilderness and soak up its natural beauty. Jasper House was a North West Company fur trade outpost established in 1813 on the York Factory Express trade route to what was then called "New Caledonia" (now British Columbia), and Fort Vancouver in Columbia District on the lower Columbia River. It was later taken over by the Hudson's Bay Company.

The gateway to the beautiful Wells Grey National Park, Clearwater is located in the North Thompson River Valley in British Columbia. Its proximity to the nature reserve boasting volcanic rocks and tall waterfalls make this town a popular destination for those looking to explore nature.

Named after the vociferous marmots that populate the region, Whistler is a world-renowned and popular ski resort set against the magnificent backdrop of the Coast Mountains. Although Whistler boasts the title of largest ski area in North America, the summer season is also impressive, with scenic hikes and adrenaline-pumping adventure activities attracting visitors. Whistler itself offers excellent amenities to ensure a perfect stay in the area.

A vibrant, progressive and scenic city, Vancouver is the third largest metropolitan area in Canada. Its ethnically diverse population and mixture of modernity and tradition results in a vibrant atmosphere and culture, boasting festivals, excellent food and a lively arts scene. The city was home to events such as the 2010 Winter Olympics and is also well-established in the film industry, often named as the 'Hollywood of the North'. Add to all of this the incredible nature right on its doorstep, and Vancouver makes for an excellent visit.

The 'Garden City' of Victoria is renowned for its abundant parkland, colourful flower gardens and mixture of modernity with history - there’s no wonder why it is often considered among the cities with the highest quality of life in the world. Wander through the city’s Chinatown, the second oldest in North America, learn about Canada’s First Nations culture and don't miss the Royal British Columbia Museum.

The city of Port Angeles is the largest in the stunning Olympic Peninsula, and makes an excellent base for exploring the area. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Olympic National Park is within easy reach, offering an incredible landscape ranging from snow-capped mountains and rough coastline to temperate rainforests. The city itself has a quaint downtown area worth spending an afternoon wandering, with a plethora of shops and cafes and a relaxing waterfront.

Ocean Shores is a city in the Olympic Peninsula region of Washington. It is located between Grays Harbor and the natural beauty of the Pacific Ocean. It is also near the wild wetlands of the Olympic Peninsula. The ocean shores are spectacular with a first-class resorts that offer the finest family vacation lodging anywhere on the Washington coast. The pacific coastline is made up of secluded beaches and ancient rainforests.

One of the USA’s most up-and-coming cities, Portland is known for its youthful spirit, great cultural scene and dazzling landscape. The Willamette River runs through the heart of the city and is surrounded by spacious green parks, and its streets are lined with authentic cafes, trendy galleries and micro-breweries which delight hipsters and traditionalists alike. A city with a liberal mindset, a relaxed lifestyle and vibrant culture - Portland is worth visiting.

Often referred to as the ‘Palm Springs of Washington’, Yakima delights with its balmy sun-soaked climate and the numerous vineyards and apple orchards in the surrounding Yakima Valley. The city itself has some good museums and cultural attractions in its downtown, and the lingering smell of hops is sure to draw in visitors to sample some of the locally brewed beers and ciders. Be sure to take a tour to the Yakima Valley wineries and explore the beautiful surroundings of the city for the full experience.

Settled in one of the most scenic spots in the USA, surrounded by water, mountains and evergreen forests, Seattle is a thriving and modern port city. With a progressive attitude, laid-back nature and ethnically diverse and vibrant culture, Seattle makes an interesting stop on any trip to the USA. Enjoy what the city has to offer before exploring the surrounding pristine nature which gives it the nickname of the ‘Emerald City’.