With the U.S. Dollar exchanging at more than $1.30 to the Canadian Dollar, now is the time for a road trip across the border to beautiful Vancouver Island. Washington and Pacific Northwest vacationers poised for travel will especially appreciate these immediate savings thanks to the close proximity of the Canadian border. A travel budget increased by almost 25% allows for an upgrade in accommodations, more upscale restaurants or just an extra jingle in your pocket.
In addition, when you #BookDirect on your stay, you eliminate the traveler fees charged by the large travel websites like VRBO, Airbnb, etc. Those fees can typically amount to around 15% on the average stay. For US travelers who #BookDirect, that can mean up to 40% savings on your total lodging expense when coupled with the exchange rate savings!
Vancouver Island is a special place and, in fact, the only place in the world containing the amount of low-level old-growth temperate rainforest found there. Outdoor adventurists will find plenty to do with gorgeous beaches for relaxing, amazing scenic drives, and even whale watching.
Build Your Vancouver Island Vacation
Planning and building your vacation are easy after lodging is booked. Browse vacation rentals for the perfect home base during your stay and choose activities that most appeal to your travel party. From shopping to festivals and outdoor recreation, there’s truly something for everyone in Vancouver Island.
If you have golfers in the group, Vancouver Island is paradise for them, with more than 40 courses with varying skill levels providing challenging play for all. Ship your clubs ahead of time if you need the space in your vehicle or rent from many of the clubs for a fee.
The foodie experience on the island is fabulous (especially with a little extra money in the wallet). Choose from gourmet food trucks, fresh seafood and almost anything else you can imagine. With an abundance of farms, locally-sourced veggies, produce and beef are more accessible and therefore quick to the restaurant tables for consumption. Check out farmers markets as well—there’s one in most every community.
Did you know that when visiting Vancouver Island, you can take a tour of some 40 wineries, breweries, cideries and meaderies in the Cowichan Valley and South Island areas? The island offers a climate that’s quite conducive to growers, making it a breeding ground for Artisan winemakers and brewmasters. Try the myriad of adult beverages and decide for yourself if this region is a prime tasting area.
Additional Ways to Spend Your Savings
While exchange rates in Canada are still favorable to U.S. travelers, spend some of that savings on a pampering, luxurious spa treatment with hot stones, a facial, an herbal mud scrub or a couples massage. There are plenty of choices to treat yourself in Vancouver Island.
Need suggestions on more things to do in Vancouver Island? Kayaking, looking for bears, snorkeling or just tooling around tend to be popular ways to spend some time. Whatever the choice, make this trip memorable on a cheaper budget by traveling while the exchange rate is so helpful!
