The past two summers have been shrouded by COVID restrictions, cancelled events, and travel limitations. While most international travel has opened up to pre-pandemic levels, delayed passport processing and crowded airports are putting a damper on out-of-country vacations. Luckily, while Canadian summers are short, there is no shortage of unique places to explore.
Business naturally slows down in the summer months, and paired with the warm weather, it is the perfect time to encourage your employees to utilize their benefits and take a vacation. Share this article with your staff to inspire them to take time off and explore this summer.
1. Moraine Lake, AB
Arguably even more beautiful than its popular neighbour, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake features windex-esque water almost too blue to be true. Relax and enjoy the view or rent a canoe to truly immerse yourself in the scenery. For those looking for added adventure the area boasts numerous hikes, including the highest peak in Banff National Park, Mount Temple.
2. Manitou Lake, SK
Image via ozy.com
Canada’s very own Dead Sea, Manitou Lake, has a salt content three times greater than the ocean. Float effortlessly as you enjoy the mineral dense waters, said to have therapeutic properties for the body and skin. The area also features one of the last remaining drive-in movie theaters in the prairies.
3. Tribune Bay, BC
Image via tribunebay.com
Nicknamed ‘Little Hawaii’, Tribune Bay boasts white sandy beaches and aquamarine water that could easily be confused with an island in the Caribbean. Located on Hornby Island, the bay’s shallow waters warm up considerably during the summer months for a nice change from the typically cool pacific waters.
4. Tablelands, NL
Image via newfoundlandlabrador.com
Located in Gros Morne National Park, The Tablelands is one of two areas in the world where mantle rock is exposed and is easily accessible for human exploration. Choose either a guide or solo hike to truly appreciate this geological masterpiece right here in our own backyard.
5. Bonnechere Caves, ON
Image via bonnecherecaves.com
First discovered in 1955, Ontario’s Bonnechere Caves were dissolved out of solid rock by acidic waters hundreds of millions of years ago. Discover waterfalls, fossilized coral, and ancient sea creatures as you adventure through the caves for a truly unique summer experience.
6. Sable Island, NS
Image via cangeotravel.ca
Located 300k off the coast of Nova Scotia, Sable Island is a remote escape, home to a unique type of feral horse only found on the island. The area is also famous for shipwreck with an estimated 350 vessels meeting their demise in the surrounding waters. Spend the day exploring the unique sandy scenery and reveling in the isolated nature of the island.
7. Drumheller, AB
Image via viator.com
Did you know the “Dinosaur Capital of the World” is located in Canada? Drumheller is not only home to the world’s largest display of dinosaurs but its unique badland scenery will make you feel as though you’ve traveled to another planet. The entire town is dedicated to dinosaurs with a giant model t-rex you can climb inside and numerous fossil shops.
8. Entry Island, QC
Image via tourismeilesdelamadeleine.com
Located off the coast of Quebec’s Magdalen Islands (Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine), Entry Island (Île d'Entrée) is a treeless archipelago covered in emerald rolling hills. Hike to the highest point of the island for a truly breathtaking view of the scenery and surrounding Atlantic Ocean.
9. Great Sandhills, SK
Image via tourismsaskatchewan.com
A hidden gem in Southern Saskatchewan, the Great Sandhills feature dessert like dunes left over from retreating glaciers. Try your hand at sand surfing or keep an eye out for the vast range of wildlife that call the dunes home.
10. Takakkaw Falls, BC
Image via maps.roadtrippers.com
Located in the heart of Yoho National Park, Takakkaw Falls is the second tallest waterfall in Canada. Over 300 meters tall, a short hike takes you to the base of the falls where you can stare up at all their grandeur or you can follow Iceline Trail upwards for an overhead view.
Final Thoughts
It is always beneficial for employers to encourage staff to take advantage of their paid time off, especially this year. Burnout and stress are at an all-time high, and some employees may not have had a vacation since before the pandemic.
Remember, employees traveling within Canada may still need travel insurance. Each province has different healthcare systems with varying degrees of coverage, and emergency expenses may not be covered.
If you would like to learn more, please sign up for our Travel Insurance webinar at CPHR on August 4th.
CPHR Webinar: Protecting Employees Who Travel
Learn about travel insurance options, exclusions and coverage.
