Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October). Summer is gorgeous, but the crowds follow the sunshine.
Summer (June–September) when the wildflowers bloom and the festivals kick off. Winters here are a polar bear’s dream—less so for us humans.
Summer: June–September for hiking, kayaking, and that fresh mountain air.Winter: December–March for skiing and snowboarding.
Spring (May–June) and fall (September–October) for mild temps and those famous autumn colors. Winter? Only if you pack your best parka.
Summer (June–September) when the coast comes alive with festivals, seafood shacks, and (maybe) a sunny day or two.
Summer (June–August) for the midnight sun; winter (December–March) if you’re chasing the Northern Lights.
Embrace the road trip, eh? Rent a car, hit the Trans-Canada Highway, and discover the best adventures hiding between the big cities.
The easiest way to reach Canada is by air. Major international gateways include Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Vancouver International (YVR), and Montreal Trudeau (YUL)—each with direct flights from around the world. Domestic flights connect these cities with regional airports from St. John’s to Victoria, making it easy to hop across provinces.
For those who like to slow things down, VIA Rail is your ticket to classic Canadian travel. Routes like The Canadian (Toronto to Vancouver) and Ocean (Montreal to Halifax) serve up breathtaking views—Rocky Mountains, autumn foliage, endless prairies—perfect for a leaf-peeping tour or just soaking up the scenery.
Renting a car opens up the real magic of Canada’s vast landscapes. From the Icefields Parkway in Alberta to the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia, Canada is built for road trips. Just be sure to check road conditions (and wildlife warnings!) before setting out.
Canada’s coastal cities are popular cruise ports, especially during the summer and fall. Vancouver welcomes Alaska-bound ships, while Halifax and Quebec City see frequent calls from New England and transatlantic cruises. It’s a unique way to explore Canada’s maritime heritage, charming waterfronts, and even the stunning Bay of Fundy tides.
Sedona got me again 🌵
This was my second trip, and somehow I liked it even more. Every visit adds another trail, viewpoint, or restaurant to the list, and the list keeps getting longer. This time I stayed near Airport Mesa, with sunsets right outside my door and none of the crowds.
My Substack has everything I’d tell a first-time visitor: the lodge I’ve now stayed at twice, the experiences I’d do first, and the restaurants I’d plan my days around.
Subscribe for free so you don’t miss the next one. Link in bio ✨
YES is always the answer... ✈️
I’m Wendy, and yes, I travel for a living (still pinching myself). After 15 years teaching middle school math, I traded the whiteboard for a passport and never looked back. Knoxville is home base, but Arizona sunsets are on another level, and if it’s been sitting on your list, this is your sign to finally say yes and book it. City guides, hotel reviews, and foodie spots are all on the blog. So glad you’re here 🌵☀️
A café, bakery, market, and wine shop all in one Phoenix stop 🍊
At La Grande Orange, order the crepes first, they’re the thing I’d go back for. The chicken salad sandwich is perfect if someone wants lunch while you’re still on breakfast, and the red velvet mini cupcake and a chai latte round it out. The sea salt chocolate chip cookie is heartier than gooey, so it’s best for dunkers. It’s counter service with easy parking, and the market has quirky gifts you won’t find elsewhere. Leave time to browse, because you’ll stay longer than planned.
Save this for your Phoenix trip ☀️
“Outside Terminal 3” is not a pickup location at PHX.
Before your driver pulls in, text them four things: your terminal, north or south side, door number, and inner or outer curb. Grab your bags first, then call them in. Drivers can wait free in the cell phone lot instead of circling. Getting through security is easy; getting picked up is the hard part.
Save this for your Phoenix trip ✈️
Come for the architecture, stay for the view.
The Chapel of the Holy Cross has been built into Sedona’s red rocks since 1956. The outside overlooks get busy, but inside is quiet, with huge windows framing the rocks. It’s free, takes 30-45 minutes, and has a paved, wheelchair-accessible ramp. Make sure to bring water in summer.
Save this for your trip planning!
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