In 2023, travelers will want to explore “little-known” and “unassuming” places. Do you recognize yourself in this statement? It’s a preference we’re already seeing, according to a 2023 travel trends report released late last year by Expedia, Vrbo, and Hotels.com.
According to the study, places off the main tourist routes are “increasingly preferred by groups who prefer to stay in one place for a while in order to immerse themselves in a new destination with their loved ones”. The report also publishes the list of “Canada’s 10 Hidden Gems” that should attract visitors in 2023. Here she is.
1. Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
Cape Breton Island is one of the beauties of the Maritimes. Travelers come here to hike the Cabot Trail, a 180-mile scenic route through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Along the way we discover an amazing Celtic culture!
2. Quebec City, Quebec
We can’t say that the state capital is a very well “hidden” gem for Quebecers! But the study is based on the responses of 24,000 participants from 17 different countries… and it’s true that it’s a little gem. Nobody wants to miss the Hôtel de Glace or the carnival this winter.
3. Chaudiere, Quebec
The Chaudière-Appalaches region, near Quebec, deserves to be explored further, particularly for its coastline that stretches from Lotbinière to Saint-Jean-Port-Joli via Lévis and the Chaudière waterfall. Along Route 138, this coastline is home to charming villages, old-world gardens and islands with fascinating stories.
4. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
This is a capital that has something to seduce with its pretty historic city center full of restaurants, cafes and shops. From Charlottetown it’s easy to explore the rest of the island: wild beaches, red cliffs, mariculture farms, the country of Anne of Green Gables and more.
5. Canmore, AB
Did you know that Legends of the Fall and Brokeback Mountain were both filmed (at least in part) in the Canmore area? It gives an idea of the magnificent landscapes to be found there. The town is about twenty minutes from Banff and its famous wonders.
6. Calgary, AB
Instead of just passing through en route to the Rockies, why not stop in Calgary? You can discover restaurants, microbreweries, cafes, museums, cultural or sporting events. You can even go river surfing!
7. Prince Edward County, Ontario
Quebecers know this area best for the dunes and clear waters of Sandbanks Provincial Park. It’s also famous for its vineyards that rival those of Niagara, bike trails, antique shops, markets, microbreweries, fine restaurants and trendy boutique hotels.
8.Winnipeg, Manitoba
Manitoba’s capital is an important historical site and the largest city on the prairie. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights can be seen, and various Aboriginal and Francophonie (particularly in Saint-Boniface) cultural experiences are on the programme. Just like a little trip to urban cafes!
9. Cowichan Valley, British Columbia
Located on beautiful and lush Vancouver Island, the Cowichan Valley is known for its farms, vineyards, cider houses and distilleries, and outdoor activities. A great destination for foodies craving some fresh air.
10. Saanich, British Columbia
The Saanich Peninsula is referred to by some as “the Provence of Vancouver Island”. Not less. In north-east Victoria, this is an agricultural region bordering the sea where you can visit vineyards and explore the famous Butchart Gardens.
(This top 10 is based on demand data from Vrbo between September 1, 2021 and August 31, 2022. Demand for each of these destinations increased by 15% or more. Like Hotels.com, Vrbo is one of the online travel agencies that operates from Expedia.)