According to a study being released today by the Resonance Consultancy, a global advisor on tourism development, luxury travel is back in a big way. And for the American luxury traveler, Canada is the most popular country they are planning a trip to. Canada is world-renowned for its mountain ranges and ski resorts offering so much more than action and adventure.
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Canada is a luxury traveler’s dream destination. Stunning views and high-end spas make the country a perfect getaway if you need to recoup and recover after a hard quarter at work. Every province offers its own unique blend of nature and nurturing retreats, meaning you can find a retreat that suits you and your budget.
Luxury travel: Toronto
The city of Toronto is widely regarded as the leader in Canadian luxury retreats. The city has a vibrant food scene with many Michelin-starred restaurants and chefs, ranging from some of the top steakhouses anywhere, to innovative fusion cuisine.
Hotels across the city offer everything a luxury traveler looking for a world class city experience would want. The Ritz-Carlton Toronto ($645 per night), Four Seasons Hotel ($734), and Shangri-La Toronto ($663). TripAdvisor has their Top 10 list based on popularity here.
Yorkville is one of the country’s most exclusive shopping districts, with brands like Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Toronto has it share of world-class museums, art galleries, theaters, plus a thriving arts and culture scene.
Photo by Marcin Skalij on Unsplash
Luxury travel: Fairmont Banff Springs, Alberta
If you don’t have the budget to buy a luxury home of your own, but still want to treat yourself, then Fairmont Banff Springs in Alberta may be the next best thing. Banff National Park is known as a hot-spring paradise, as water is naturally warmed by geothermal heat.
The Fairmont Banff Springs hotel is known as the “castle in the Rockies.” You can expect to receive a warm welcome complete with personalized service and plenty of cozy rooms to keep the cold at bay. You’ll also have the chance to choose from guest rooms, suites, or larger “Gold” rooms.
The hotel is home to 18 and 9-hole golf courses. Both have a slope rating of 125, so you’ll feel fairly challenged while navigating the courses’ intricate layouts.
Fairmont Banff Springs also offer massage, body experiences, and salon services during your stay. So, while you’re not swimming in the geothermal pools or working up a sweat in the fitness suite, you can get professional care from the staff.
Photo by Zachary Kyra-Derksen/Unsplash
Four Seasons Resort and Residences, Whistler
Whistler is known for its ski parks and slopes. This makes the Four Seasons Retreat and Resort the perfect luxury retreat if you want to work up a sweat and enjoy the adrenaline rush that comes with skiing or snowboarding. The hotel is also less than a mile from Whistler Blackcomb, which is widely regarded as one of the best ski destinations in the area.
After you hit the slopes, you can enjoy the spa and heated pool.
Image: Four Seasons Hotels Limited
Nōmina Wellness, Vancouver Island
The Nomia Wellness center is the perfect luxury retreat if you’re dealing with chronic pain. Chronic pain can be caused by poor posture, traumatic injuries, or underlying health conditions. Chronic pain is often exacerbated if you’re under extreme stress at work or in your personal life.
Nōmina Wellness is a rehabilitation center designed to help you manage your mental and physical health. The center is equipped with healthcare professionals that can help you manage your chronic pain and overcome injury.
During your stay, you’ll have access to Class IV Deep Tissue Laser Therapy, Intravenous Therapy, and Injection Therapy. Their inpatient program can help you overcome the psychological impact of injury and chronic pain, too, meaning you’ll feel great when it’s time to leave the luxury retreat.
Echo Valley, British Columbia
Echo Valley Ranch and Spa is the perfect blend of wilderness and wellness. If you enjoy spending time hiking and horseback riding, then Echo Valley is the place for you.
Echo Valley also offers yoga classes to suit every level. If you’d rather skip a guided meditation, you can always explore the gardens and grounds that are open to each guest. You’ll also get to see the food you’re going to eat, as the ranch runs a successful farm-to-table program.
Canada is often overlooked in favor of white sandy beaches and tropical climates. However, Canada houses some of the best luxury retreats that money can buy.
Top image by Maarten van den Heuvel on Unsplash
