Resurgent Air Canada unveils growth strategy

Good news for anyone flying with Air Canada with the airline boosting its global connectivity.

The Candian flag carrier is planning its biggest-ever intercontinental expansion for summer 2027, adding five international destinations and seven new routes from its three Canadian hubs, Travel Mole reports.

The carrier will launch a year-round service from Vancouver to Guangzhou, China, while Toronto will gain new flights to Oslo, Shannon in Ireland and Nice. 

Montreal will add new links to Basel, Switzerland, and Dubrovnik, Croatia.

Air Canada will also extend several existing seasonal services to year-round operations, including Tenerife, Lima and Guatemala City.

The expansion will increase international capacity by more than 8% compared with summer 2026. 

The airline - bouncing back after struggling during Covid - plans to operate more than 125 international routes, offering up to 169,000 seats a week from Canada to more than 85 destinations across the Atlantic, Pacific, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America.

Toronto is at the centre of Air Canada expansion. The new Oslo service will operate four times weekly from June 2 through October 10, 2027, using Air Canada’s new Airbus A321XLR aircraft.

Shannon will receive three weekly flights from June 10 through to October 2, giving Air Canada its second destination in Ireland after Dublin. The airline says it will be the only carrier offering non-stop service between Toronto and Shannon.

Nice will receive twice-weekly Toronto service from June 16 through October 23. Combined with Air Canada’s existing Montréal-Nice flights, the new service will provide a daily connection between Canada and the French Riviera during the summer season.

From Montréal, Basel will operate four times weekly from June 16 through October 23, while Dubrovnik will receive three weekly flights from May 11 through October 23.

Vancouver will gain three weekly flights to Guangzhou beginning May 4, 2027. The year-round service will use Boeing 787 Dreamliners and make Guangzhou Air Canada’s third destination in mainland China.

The airline says it will offer up to 24 weekly flights to Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou combined.

Air Canada expects the broader growth strategy to create more than 1,500 direct jobs by 2028. 

World Cup still kicking goals in Vancouver

The FIFA World Cup 2026™ circus is only a memory now, but the Canadian city of Vancouver is doing its best to keep the dream alive after the final whistle. 

The city hosted seven tournament matches and fans from around the world and now locals are enjoying the goal nets as hammocks dotted around Vancouver. 

The quirky installations remain, urging visitors to Recouver in Vancouver post-tournament. 

Hammock Goals is the name given to a series of custom hammocks crafted from soccer nets that have popped up at locations across the city, including one made from an actual World Cup match-played goal net. 

It’s a part of a Destination Vancouver initiative that invites visitors to slow the pace, look back on all the excitement the tournament had to offer and experience the city from a more relaxed perspective.

Made locally in Vancouver, additional hammocks crafted from goal nets will be gifted to the Swiss Football Association and Football Australia as a reminder of their matches in the city and an invitation to return. 

Hammock locations include Grouse Mountain, Kitsilano Pool, Van Dusen Botanical Garden, Stanley Park and Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

 
Explore the interactive hammock map.

Flying low: Exciting new ways to explore the Pacific Northwest

Flying on a seaplane is a rare travel pleasure. 

You get great views and can land exactly where you want to be - providing there is a body of water. 

Harbour Air, British Columbia's leading coastal airline, has announced its largest seasonal expansion, featuring the return of a Vancouver-Seattle service beginning next week, along with three new routes including the airline's first Victoria-Seattle service.

The expansion is in response to strong demand across the Pacific Northwest of Canada and the US, adding new connections to communities like Ucluelet - named one of Expedia's 2026 Destinations of the Year - and Campbell River, a gateway to top-notch fishing and wilderness adventures. 

And for the first time, Vancouver Island travellers will have direct cross-border seaplane service without routing through Vancouver.

"This is our biggest seasonal expansion yet, and it reflects what we're hearing from our guests and communities," said Chris Fordyce, Chief Commercial Officer for Harbour Air. 

"The Vancouver-Seattle route has been one of our strongest seasonal services, and we're thrilled to bring it back. We're also launching three new routes this summer, including our first Victoria-Seattle service, new flights to Ucluelet, and new flights to Campbell River. 

"These additions strengthen our network and give coastal B.C. travellers more ways to explore the region and beyond."

The new flight means locals, and tourists, can fly from downtown Vancouver to central Seattle in one hour. 

Twice-daily departures will connecting Coal Harbour in downtown Vancouver with Lake Union in Seattle. One-way fares start from CAD$149, offering a fast alternative to driving, ferry connections and traditional airport routes. 

The journey has operated as a seasonal spring and summer service since 2018.

The inaugural Victoria-Seattle service launches on June 11, connecting Victoria's Inner Harbour with Lake Union in under an hour. 

Check out harbourair.com/everyday-low-fares for deals and see supernaturalbc.com. 

Why Vancouver might just be the most appealing World Cup host city

With the dawn of 2026 we are close to the latest edition of the FIFA World Cup finals.

This time around the competition is more bloated than ever and hosting duties will be shared by Canada, Mexico and the US.

I've covered four of these tournaments in the past: in Spain, Mexico, Italy and France, but am now happy to watch a few games on TV.

Given the ongoing madness in the US, if I were planning a visit the I'd be tempted by a few games in Vancouver, British Colombia, a delightful city in a sane country that I have been fortunate enough to visit a few times.

The World Cup arrives in BC for seven matches between June 13 and July 7 with games taking place on the traditional territories of the three host First Nations: xʷməθkʷəyəm (Musqueam), Sḵwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh).

Local tourism organisations hope the event will spotlight the cultures, voices, and communities of Indigenous peoples and diverse cultures that call this part of Canada home.

Outside the stadium lies a province as immense as it is diverse: nearly four times the size of the UK and Ireland combined.

BC Place Stadium in downtown Vancouver is a key venue for FIFA World Cup 26 with its seven games including two featuring Canada's national team, one starring Australia and two showcasing New Zealand.


Here's the full match schedule at BC Place:
Australia v Kosovo/Romania/Slovakia/Türkiye | Group D | June 13
Canada v Qatar | Group B | June 18
New Zealand v Egypt | Group G | June 21
Switzerland v Canada | Group B | June 24
New Zealand v. Belgium | Group G | June 26
Match 85 | Round of 32 | July 2
Match 96 | Round of 16 | July 7

Vancouver is a city worth several days of anyone's time, World Cup or not.


It is gorgeous urban area, framed by mountains, temperate rainforest, and Pacific coastline - with the ski resort of Whistler not far away.


National Geographic recently named Vancouver among its Best of the World 2026 list.


The downtown area is home to beaches, ocean views, and 27 kilometres of forested trails.


Visual highlights include Grouse Mountain with city-to-sea views and its new Grouse Bike Park, the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and Squamish Canyon.


Whales splashing off Vancouver's coast - Orcas, humpbacks, sea lions, and bald eagles - turn the Salish Sea into their arena, Tours depart from Granville Island in Vancouver, also home to one of the best produce markets in the world (below).



Hungry fans will be well catered for: from street food to fine dining, from historic Gastown to leafy Stanley Park.


Pan-Asian flavours rule at the Richmond Night Market, one of the largest in North America, while in the Okanagan wine valley Kelowna was recently named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, the first in Canada.

Visitors can experience Salmon n' Bannock, the only First Nations restaurant in Vancouver, showcasing local Indigenous ingredients with a modern twist.


This multi-cultural city is also home to Little Italy, an eight-block stretch along Commercial Drive in Vancouver and the Punjabi Market, a three-block area in the Sunset neighbourhood - home to one of the largest south Asian communities in Canada.


Here is a BC Fact Sheet to explore quick facts and key context about British Columbia, provided by Destination BC/Destination Vancouver.


See https://www.destinationbc.ca/ and https://www.destinationvancouver.com/

Sorry for the flight delay: your pilot is drunk

Air India is under scrutiny after one of its pilots reportedly failed two breathalyzer tests and had to be escorted from a long-distance flight before take off. 

Canada's transport regulator has asked Air India to investigate the incident, which occurred at Vancouver International Airport. 

 
The incident was labelled as a "serious matter" by Transport Canada in a letter to Air India and authorities are likely to pursue enforcement action, news agency Reuters reported. 

The incident occurred on Flight AI186 from Vancouver to Vienna, NEWS 18 said. 

In a statement, Air India confirmed the flight from Vancouver via Vienna to Delhi on December 23 experienced a last-minute delay due to the incident, adding that an alternate pilot was brought in to operate the flight.

"The pilot has been taken off flying duties during the process of enquiry," the airline said in a statement. 

"Air India maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards any violation of applicable rules and regulations. 

"Pending the outcome of the investigation, any confirmed violation will attract strict disciplinary action in line with company policy."

The letter from Transport Canada official Ajit Oommen has asked Air India to provide its findings and details of steps taken to prevent future occurrences by January 26, Reuters said. 

India has been under intense scrutiny since the June 12 crash of a Boeing Dreamliner killed 260 people. India's aviation regulator has flagged multiple safety lapses at the airline. 

Vancouver puts on the culinary glitz

Vancouver is one of the most spectacular cities in North America. It has a great food and drink culture and has the advantage of being in Canada, rather than its belligerent neighbour. 

If you are heading to British Columbia early in the new year be sure to check out Dine Out Vancouver, Canada’s largest food and drink celebration, which will return for its 24th year. 

Destination Vancouver has announced that foodies can enjoy 19 days of feasting fun from January 21 to February 8, 2026. 

The Dine Out Vancouver Festival (DOVF) is an opportunity for visitors and locals alike to celebrate the city's culinary scene. 

Diners can look forward to a line-up of special menus from local chefs, unique culinary experiences, and a schedule of tasty events. 

The 2026 DOVF will showcase more than 400 restaurants from the North Shore to downtown, through Richmond and beyond, dishing up menus in fixed price points ranging from $25 to $70 per person.

Guests can also enjoy exclusive menus from Michelin-starred restaurants Burdock & Co. and Published on Main for $110.

The Dine Out Vancouver Festival will feature more than 30 ticketed dining events, including a three-course dinner in one of Rocky Mountaineer’s luxury rail cars at the Rocky Mountaineer Station. 

There will also be the “Chowder Cup”- a competition where chefs can showcase their creativity by featuring a sustainable seafood ingredient to win over a panel of judges. 

Also think events like a Sea Foraging Adventure. a Chinatown Walk, Talk and Dim Sum and a Grand Mezcal Tasting Event. 

Participating downtown Vancouver hotels will be offering up to a $250 Prepaid Mastercard with a two-night hotel stay, or a $75 Prepaid Mastercard with a one-night hotel stay (terms and conditions apply).

As the official airline of Dine Out Vancouver Festival, Air Canada will be offering discounted fares. 

For more info see https://www.dineoutvancouver.com/attractions/.

On the right track in venust Vancouver

Vancouver is a terrific city for gourmets, with a fabulous range of restaurants, bars and markets.

But is is also noteworthy for how healthy its citizens look. I can't recall having visited anywhere where there are more joggers, cyclists, skateboarders and power walkers.

Vancouver is very cycle friendly and one of the best ways to explore it is on two wheels, say the good people at Destination Vancouver.

Whether you want explore the city's neighbourhoods or get out on some local trails in the urban oasis of Stanley Park, there are 440 kilometres of dedicated bike routes allow for safe and easy urban riding.

Cycle routes include the seawall around Stanley Park and False Creek and urban lanes through the downtown core, Yaletown, the West End, Coal Harbour.

Cycle City Rentals and Tours offers tours led by story-teller guides that provide a local’s insight, while self-guided maps with insider tips are available for those who prefer exploring on their own. The two downtown locations have a wide selection of bikes and accessories.

Spokes Bicycle Rentals is conveniently located at the entrance to Stanley Park. Pick up a cruiser, hybrid or the newest mountain bike with helmet and lock and head off to explore the park and the city.

Image: Destination Vancouver

Dining differently in Vancouver

Vancouver is probably my favourite city in Canada - a beautiful and lively waterfront city with plenty of gourmet options.

I will be missing out on a Vancouver stopover during my upcoming trip to Canada, but the folks at Destination Vancouver sent me a list on some of the diverse dining attractions I will be missing out on.

As a city with a diverse population, Vancouver’s dining scene ranges from classic West Coast cuisine, and seafood joints around the seawall, to exotic ethnic neighbourhoods and famous bakeries.

If you are lucky enough to be visiting here are a few local eateries with a difference that the locals recommend.

H Tasting Lounge – This waterfront restaurant at the Westin Bayshore (above) offers dishes that can be enjoyed in one of their themed outdoor domes. Afternoon teas featuring sweet and savoury bites served on a golden Ferris wheel are another attraction.

Glowbal – This luxurious restaurant offers plenty of photo opportunities while dining on West Coast fare. Installations include an oversized mirror with dramatic floral backdrops, lush greenery and florals, vibrant patterned fabrics and birdcage booths surrounded by foliage and ambient lights.

Dark Table – Something very different. Non-sighted servers guide the sighted, offering a culinary experience into the unknown.

Sushi Aboard – This Japanese restaurant makes fresh sushi delivered by a conveyer train connecting your table to the kitchen.

Hello Nori – Pull up a chair in this 24-seater architectural space and enjoy a fresh hand rolled nori offering prepared right in front of you.

Octopus Garden – Although unassuming from the outside, this restaurant transports you to a small shop in Japan with many references to the culture and octopi. Feast on the omakase – a set meal selected and made by the chef.

Collective Goods – Visit this part-grocery, part-wine shop and part-bistro establishment to get your Parisian fix in store and to take home.

And should you wish to splash out, the 2022 list of Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants was announced in late May and a Vancouver restaurant took the coveted No. 1 spot for the very first time. Opened in 2019 on the cusp of the pandemic, Published on Main is a fine dining eatery with an elaborate 11-course tasting menu.

See https://www.destinationvancouver.com/

Why Air Canada's return is good news for travellers

There is a huge advantage in choosing an airline that flies direct between Australia and Canada.

It means you do not have to land in the US. 

Travelers must apply for and receive an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) even when transiting through the US to a third country. 

Which is an unnecessary hassle. 

Good news, then, that Air Canada is ramping up its transpacific services, adding a choice of carriers for flyers.

Air Canada will have a daily service between Vancouver and Sydney from May 1. 

The airline will also reinstate Brisbane flights four times a week starting on July 1.

Later in the year it will re-starts flying to Auckland with three flights a week.

“We are accelerating the restoration of our Australian and New Zealand routes to respond to pent-up travel as borders reopen,” said Mark Galardo, senior vice president, network planning and revenue management (hell of a job title that!) at Air Canada.

Air Canada’s flights connect to and from Melbourne, Canberra, Perth, Cairns and other cities via code-share agreement with Virgin Australia.

Air Canada’s Signature Suite lounge in Vancouver is expected to reopen this summer.

“We are thrilled with the expansion of the Air Canada network and to welcome our Aussie and Kiwi friends back to British Columbia to experience the hospitality we are known for,” said Melanie Mark, minister of tourism, arts, culture and sport for the province.

Seats are available for purchase now at aircanada.com

Festival transforms downtown Vancouver in February

Vancouver is one of the loveliest cities in North America, a green waterfront metropolis that has much in common with Sydney. 

The folk at Destination Vancouver are good at keeping me up to date with what is happening in their city - and there is plenty going on if you happen to find yourself in British Columbia this month. 

A free outdoor celebration across downtown Vancouver will transform the city core in winter to an interactive, open-air gallery and celebration of art and live entertainment. 

Running from February 11-27, the VMF Winter Arts festival is produced by the team behind Vancouver Mural Festival and presented by the Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association. 

The second such festival will bring together augmented reality (AR) art, light installations, and live performances. 

VMF Winter Arts was created in 2021 amidst the pandemic. 

The event is designed to encourage outdoor activity and support local businesses and artists, while enabling social distancing and a safe, welcoming outdoor space for all.

Free public art and entertainment will be showcased in Canada Place, along Burrard to Bentall Centre and Park Place, to the Vancouver Art Gallery, Vancouver Public Library Square, and Yaletown; plus BC Place and Science World.

At the centre of it all will be the Winter Arts Hub, located at šxʷƛənəq Xwtl’e7énḵ Square on the north side of the Vancouver Art Gallery. 

A new addition to the festival this year, the Winter Arts Hub will be a central space in which to enjoy food, drinks, art, and free live performances.

Wish I could be there. 

For details see www.insidevancouver.ca/