Undiscovered Corners of the Country
Canada
This vast North American country is having a major moment – partly because many U.S. fans are switching things up this year. First-timers usually stick to the classic highlights. But what about the repeat travelers? Your best bet: send them to Canada’s lesser-known corners. We've rounded up a few exciting ideas for you!
Undiscovered Corners of the Country
Canada
This vast North American country is having a major moment – partly because many U.S. fans are switching things up this year. First-timers usually stick to the classic highlights. But what about the repeat travelers? Your best bet: send them to Canada’s lesser-known corners. We've rounded up a few exciting ideas for you!
Island dreams, but make them different: Off the southwest coast of British Columbia lies the remote archipelago of Haida Gwaii, formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands. Getting here means really getting away. The islands are made up of two main landmasses – Graham Island in the north and Moresby Island in the south – plus around 150 smaller islets scattered in between. This is the ancestral home of the Haida Nation, known for its rich culture and deep connection to the land. Nature here is something else: think misty rainforests, hot springs, and a wild abundance of flora and fauna (yes, bears and whales included). The only way to reach the islands and Haida Gwaii National Park is by boat – perfect if you’re already exploring the region by sea. Canada specialist Maple Leaf Adventures offers the "Haida Gwaii/Queen Charlotte Island Sailing Safari" aboard the Maple Leaf, a classic schooner that accommodates just eight guests in four cozy private cabins. Looking for something a bit more luxe? The same route can be booked aboard the expedition catamaran Cascadia. With space for 24 guests, it ups the ante with a hot tub, kayaks, hydrophone, and two landing boats.
Trade contact: The Reservations Team at Maple Leaf Adventures
Nature puts on a jaw-dropping show in the Bay of Fundy. Tucked between the provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, this ocean bay is home to the highest tides in the world. Depending on wind conditions, the difference between low and high tide can reach a staggering 13 to 16 meters (42 to 52 feet). All that water gets funneled at high speed into the Shubenacadie River, setting the stage for an unforgettable ride. Enter: Tidal Bore Rafting. Think of it as a natural roller coaster – on water. Zodiacs take thrill-seekers right into the action, blasting through rapids stirred up by the tidal surge. Tours typically launch from Green Oaks or South Maitland and cover the 72-kilometer-long Shubenacadie River, which sees a tidal wave up to four meters high roll through twice a day. When it hits, the calm river transforms into a wild aquatic thrill ride, shaking and soaking everyone aboard. Don’t worry – safety is tight, with expert guides navigating around rocky outcrops and steering through intense currents. And for those who can’t get enough of the mud and madness, there’s an optional bonus round: sliding through riverbank sludge. Call it mud therapy – with a serious adrenaline kick.
Trade contact: Natalie Shaw, Market Development Coordinator
Your guests are into camping – especially the off-the-grid kind? Then Nunavut is calling. It doesn’t get much more remote in Canada than this – and the payoff? Untamed Arctic wilderness, serious adventure vibes, and a chance to camp on actual snow. Not exactly your average weekend getaway. Those who make the trek will travel with Canadian outfitter Black Feather, first flying into Pond Inlet. From there, it’s snowmobiles and traditional sleds called qamutik out to the Floe Edge – also known as the "Line of Life." That’s where the sea meets the frozen shoreline ice, creating a rich feeding ground for marine wildlife. And the sightings? Next level. Narwhals, orcas, and belugas cruise through the icy waters, while polar bears patrol the coast in search of food. The trip includes six days of outfitted camping at the Floe Edge, led by seasoned outdoor experts and local Inuit guides. Explorations are done by snowmobile and skis, with a moderate fitness level (2 out of 4) recommended. This rare Arctic adventure is only offered three times a year. Next departures are May and June 2026.
Trade contact: Ken MacDiarmid, Owner & Director
Prince Edward Island may clock in at just 5,560 square kilometers, but when it comes to unforgettable experiences, this tiny gem in the Gulf of St. Lawrence delivers big. The smallest of Canada’s ten provinces, PEI – yes, that’s what the locals call it – has everything you dream of in Atlantic Canada: charming beaches, classic lighthouses, fresh seafood, and laid-back coastal vibes. And yes, PEI does luxury, too. Travelers can check into The Great George, a chic boutique hotel in the island’s capital, Charlottetown. From there, it’s just a short stroll to the harbor, where the "Lobster Catch & Dine" experience by luxury DMC Excursionist sets sail. On board, guests meet the captain, learn the ins and outs of lobster fishing, and – if they’re up for it – get hands-on helping prep and toss the traps. Prefer to just take in the views? The scenic Atlantic coastline delivers. The best part? That day’s lobster haul is cooked right on board and served fresh from the sea. Now that’s how you do PEI in style!
Trade contact: Yulissa Munoz, Director of Business Development at the DMC Excursionist
Calling all fishing fans! If you know Canada, you know this: luxury here isn’t always about the lodging – it’s about the experience and the wild, untouched nature. And Saskatchewan? It nails both, especially the remote kind. This vast central province is a dream for anglers, with more than 100,000 lakes and waterways – many only accessible by boat or floatplane. One standout: Twin Falls Lodge, a fly-in lodge tucked deep into the Churchill River system, about 80 kilometers from La Ronge. Perched on a forested peninsula between Otter Lake and Mountain Lake, the lodge is perfectly placed for outdoor adventures. It gets its name from the two waterfalls that flank it – and it’s especially famous for its year-round walleye fishing. Beyond the rods and reels, guests can head out on canoe trips, hike scenic trails, or explore local culture, including a visit to the historic Stanley Mission. Accommodations are simple but come with five-star views: four cozy cabins and three suites, with meals served in the main lodge. A dedicated chef is on hand – and yes, they’ll happily cook up your catch of the day. Access is via floatplane from Thompson Resort in Missinipe, or now, directly from Saskatoon.
Trade contact: The Reservations Team at Twin Falls Lodge
Sleep where moose, grizzlies, and caribou say goodnight – Terre Boréale makes it happen! This Canadian travel company, known for small-group canoeing and trekking adventures, takes travelers deep into the heart of the Yukon. With fewer than 43,000 people living in this vast northwestern territory, it’s no surprise the real stars here is the rugged landscape – and the wildlife. One standout trip: exploring the Ruby Range. This backcountry trek explores the southern Yukon near Kluane National Park, where alpine terrain and raw wilderness await. The adventure starts with a scenic helicopter ride into two remote base camps, followed by daily hikes of four to five hours. Wildlife lovers, take note: this area is prime territory for spotting wild bison, along with moose, grizzlies, caribou, Dall sheep, and all kinds of birdlife. Local guides handle everything from navigation to cooking – and in true Terre Boréale style, it’s all done waste-free. Meals are designed with sustainability in mind. Good to know: the trip runs from August 28 through September 4 and is limited to just four to eight participants. You’ll need a decent fitness level, but no mountaineering experience required. Just a taste for the wild.
Trade contact: Miléna Georgeault from Terre Boréale
Let's Ask the Industry:
Why is Canada a luxury highlight – even off the beaten path?
"Many of Canada’s well-known national parks see heavy visitor traffic during peak season, which can take away from the sense of exclusivity and the depth of the nature experience. But the country is so vast, there are still countless ways to discover the Canada you're truly looking for. That’s why understanding each traveler’s specific needs is key. Beyond outstanding accommodations, Canada offers a wide range of exclusive experiences – from floatplane adventures to the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train. What sets Canada’s luxury stays apart is that they’re not just high-end hotels with great service – they’re deeply connected to their natural surroundings. Whether it’s hiking, canoeing, scenic flights, or wildlife watching, nature plays a starring role in the experience. Currently, the most in-demand region is Western Canada – especially British Columbia and Alberta – with a strong focus on resort-style lodges along the West Coast (Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast) and in the Rocky Mountains."
Holger Howind, Senior Product Manager at America Unlimited, Germany
+ + + Status Quo USA: Where Does Tourism Stand in the Land of (Un)Limited Possibilities? + + +
Anyone searching for flights to the U.S. these days might be in for a surprise: even during the typically pricey summer travel season, there are some serious deals to be had. And that’s no coincidence. The fact is, international tourism to the U.S. is taking a noticeable dip.
Unpredictable moves by the current U.S. administration – think tariffs – are making travelers uneasy, as are certain incidents at border checkpoints, regardless of which nationality is involved.
According to official data from the National Travel and Tourism Office, the total number of international visitors (non-U.S. citizens) entering the country in March 2025 stood at 5,410,331 – an 8.1% drop compared to March of the previous year.
Airlines have already started reacting, with many anticipating that the downturn will extend into the peak summer season. Travel analytics firm Cirium reports that flight bookings from Europe to the U.S. for June, July, and August are down 12% year-over-year, based on online travel agency data. The result? Slimmed-down flight schedules and fewer connections. Even Canadian travelers – the largest source market for U.S. tourism – are crossing the border in noticeably lower numbers right now.
In a Nutshell
One traveler’s loss is another’s gain – or in this case: Canada is booming while the U.S. is losing steam. That’s reason enough for many to take a closer look at northern North America – and for travel advisors to seize the opportunity. Canada offers countless ways to win over luxury travelers, whether it’s with wild, crowd-free landscapes or one-of-a-kind stays. And here’s the kicker: the Canadian dollar is currently making many other currencies look pretty strong, which doesn’t go unnoticed – especially in the high-end market. When the trip itself comes in under budget, it’s that much easier to sell an unforgettable extra experience.
Author: Cathrin Lührs