Exploring Our Own Backyard
I’ll be honest: twenty years ago, if you had asked me where I’d travel in retirement, my list would have been filled with European cobblestones and South American vistas. For most of my life, I looked outward. Canada was where I lived. The world was where I explored.
I’ve had wonderful trips through Central Europe, the Caribbean, Venezuela, and the U.S. But lately, the wind has shifted. Between a complicated global climate and a few very personal midlife realizations, I’ve found myself studying a map of Canada with entirely new eyes. And you know what? I’m now thrilled that I left most of Canada to explore in my ‘more mature’ years, because I never guessed there would be reasons why I wanted to stay closer to home at this time in my life.
The Great Pivot
Many Canadians are choosing to keep their discretionary dollars closer to home right now. It’s a very personal decision, but right now I’d like to boost the Canadian economy because I feel the need is there.
That decision is also practical for me outside of politics — shaped by this season of life, which if I’m being honest I’m not thrilled to see the mindset shift (because it signals to me I’m getting old in my thinking). I could just lie and pretend I’m of the same mindset now as I was 30 years ago, but sadly, I’m not. I have many friends who are still incredibly adventurous. Aging doesn’t mean you’ll lose that spark. But they’re also not travelling alone, which may have something to do with it, and they also have much more generous discretionary spending budgets than I. Right now, self-acceptance needs to be a part of living with grace about and for myself (for inner peace). They are not me, I am not them.
The Solo Factor
I didn’t necessarily expect to be navigating this chapter as a solo traveller. Travelling alone is expensive without someone splitting the cost of accommodation. I also discovered that it can feel emotionally harder.
I’ve done a few solo international trips. I enjoyed them — but if I’m honest, the cost-to-joy ratio didn’t quite add up. Evenings alone in unfamiliar cities didn’t feel adventurous; they felt lonely. Navigating through all of the upsets and challenges that are a natural part of travel didn’t unsettle me. But when too many of them piled on one right after the other, I definitely had moments when being resilient and emotionally capable got shaky.
There were times when carrying the burden too long on my own shoulders, with no one to share the worries, problem solving, fast action to be street savvy and talking through experiences, got a bit too heavy. Being near tears gave me sudden new insight as I talked myself through it. I could see that if I’d been with a travel companion, we would have conquered the challenges together and the toll would not have been felt so deeply.
That doesn’t mean solo travel isn’t wonderful for others. It simply means I know myself better now. For this stage, group travel — at least occasionally — may be the smarter fit.
The Budget Reality
Airfare, accommodations, attraction fees — everything feels “dear.” Travel within Canada is certainly not cheap, but at least I won’t be battling exchange rates. And shorter, regional trips by car, bus, or train may reduce airfare altogether.
Still, I’m not kidding myself into thinking domestic airfares are always cheaper than international. Why just two summers ago there were many times that airfare from one Canadian city to another cost almost double what it would cost to fly to the UK or France. But I am keeping my fingers crossed that as I look into each trip, I just may be able to secure a deal if I start early, and know a few industry tips to help me on my way.
Energy Management
I stay active, but my battery doesn’t recharge the way it once did. Long-haul flights, navigating a foreign language and massive time zone jumps take a toll.
The Appeal of “Easy”
There is comfort in knowing the healthcare system, the currency, the language, and the general safety standards. There’s a quiet exhale in staying within your own borders.
And here’s the upside: because most of my travel has been international, I’ve barely explored my own country. Canada is still wide open for discovery.
So I asked friends, acquaintances, and Canadian 50+ social media groups: Where should I go? The suggestions poured in.
Here’s what rose to the top — it was all about the geography for high-enjoyment Canadian travel.
1. The Romance of the Rails
One of the most frequent recommendations? Skip airport stress. Take the train.
VIA Rail
Several people suggested the Montréal–Toronto corridor on VIA Rail for a relaxed, scenic trip. Others recommended the cross-country journey from Vancouver to Toronto — particularly in autumn. And I do know that VIA rail frequently offers 20%-30% discounts for various and sundry reasons. And lucky me, I’ll soon qualify for their 65+ senior discount. Oh boy!
Rocky Mountaineer
Then there’s the iconic Rocky Mountaineer route through the Rockies between Vancouver and Jasper.
I travelled through the Rockies by train when I was twelve. I can still picture the view from the skylight car as if I saw it yesterday. That experience never leaves you. I feel the same way about my Switzerland experience. The mountains are not just scenery — they are an experience and I definitely need to get back to them.
People say to watch for promotions. (Within minutes of googling “The Rocky Mountaineer”, my feed was offering discounts — so clearly deals do circulate.) One trip review and subsequent practical tip I read a few years back and has stuck with me: bring extra snacks or you’ll be hungry. The food offered on this train trip is not enough.
Whether it was just him or it’s a common opinion I don’t know, but there may come a time when I am grateful I remembered that tip. I’ve always been a snack hoarder anyway — nuts, protein shakes, dark chocolate. Some habits serve you well, though I’ve had a few hot summer day mishaps, but that’s not problematic enough to scare off this chocoholic.
2. British Columbia
Victoria and Vancouver were frequent mentions.
I’ve visited Vancouver twice in the past 8 years and felt completely comfortable travelling alone there. I didn’t make it back to Victoria last time — though I was there decades ago. A return to Vancouver Island is most definitely on my future list.
One of my sisters lives in California, another in Ontario like myself. A west coast sisters’ trip feels possible. Meet in Vancouver. Explore the Island. Then connect to the Rockies by rail. The wheels are already turning in my mind.
3. Alberta: The Rockies
Lake Louise and Banff National Park came up repeatedly, Jasper and Waterton mentioned by another.
Yes, lodging can be competitive. Yes, it will likely be one of my more expensive trips. But I know this: I would regret never seeing that landscape in person. Some places feel like a Canadian rite of passage.
4. The Magic of the Maritimes & Newfoundland
If there is a gold standard for hospitality, people insist it’s the East Coast.
Newfoundland
St. John’s was mentioned often, along with Twillingate for whales and puffins in July. For icebergs, earlier in the season is best. The rugged coastline of Newfoundland holds enormous appeal.
New Brunswick
Camping by The Bay of Fundy and witnessing some of the highest tides in the world, 16 meters! I’m told to visit St. Andrews by the Sea, a historic and charming seaside resort town, about 30 min from the border to Maine and a 40 min. drive from St. John, NB.
Nova Scotia
I stayed in Halifax when the tall ships were in port, as well as a few US and Canadian naval ships that we were allowed to tour. I had to show my passport to get onto the American one because I was technically boarding American “soil”. At the same time, the Marblehead, Massachusetts to Halifax, Nova Scotia World Sailing Race was happening and the finish line was the Halifax Harbour. This race has been in existence for 40 years. It was a great week!
Cape Breton is connected to the mainland by a causeway and is unique in its Gaelic, Mi’kmaq and Acadian heritage. The Cabot Trail is on my list. I’d need someone else driving, I don’t think with my vertigo I could handle those cliffs and hairpin turns, but it looks stunning. Besides, I’d rather be the passenger so I can enjoy the view. The drivers, having to concentrate on the road, are missing it all.
I was told that it’s best to drive around the Island counter clockwise so that your views just keep getting better and better. It’s known as one of the best scenic drives in Canada!
Prince Edward Island
I’ve cycled Prince Edward Island and loved it — especially staying at PEI’s best and most beautiful Bed &Breakfasts with their historic charm, luxurious comfort and stunning waterfront or rural views. That said, if I weren’t cycling, I might bundle PEI with another province for variety and because PEI is somewhat slower in pace.
At times, without the cycling, I felt if there had been more days there it would have been a little too “sleepy” for this urbanite who loves nature but sometimes can’t rev down the engine. Combining PEI with Nova Scotia sounds like a perfect blend.
Autumn in the Maritimes was highly recommended for mild weather and spectacular foliage. For those who love “Anne of Green Gables” charm, it’s hard to beat.
5. Wildlife and the North
If you want something truly distinctive: they say to check out Churchill, Manitoba.
Summer brings beluga whales. October and November bring polar bears. I know someone currently planning a van journey from Ontario across the southwestern route, then north to Churchill and beyond into the territories. I’m eagerly awaiting their photos.
The Northwest Territories offer a unique adventure, learning about indigenous culture, the natural world, taking in spectacular views of the Northern Lights, and seeing what life is like for the people who live there year-round.
Another comment online simply said: “Tuktoyaktuk and the Arctic Ocean — adventure of a lifetime.”
That sentence alone makes you pause.
6. Quebec
I’ve visited Quebec City several times and love its energy. Summer walking festivals. Winter Carnival (though prepare to freeze — I still remember ducking into several cafés to thaw my painfully frozen fingers).
I’ve driven to Montreal, camped near Mont-Tremblant, swum in lakes, explored the resort village. I’ve walked North America’s longest suspension foot bridge at Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook in the Eastern Townships.
For me personally, I feel content with what I’ve seen there — but for anyone who hasn’t gone, it’s well worth exploring. The Eastern Townships are also lovely for a scenic drive, and I don’t want to miss mentioning Montreal.
7. Ontario
I’m from Ontario, and there isn’t a whole lot of it that I haven’t seen, including the North, but I do have some favourites. There’s no question that Ottawa always has so much to do and see. It’s a constant calendar of cultural and recreational events to suit just about every personality.
There are museums and festivals, the Arts and so many entries are free or very affordable. Being our Nation’s capital, Ottawa is a huge draw for tourism, and I am continually amazed at all the things on offer.
Our provincial parks are varied and scattered in every corner of the province. I have always enjoyed time in them and can see myself going back for daytrips for hiking and birding, now that my camping days are over.
Of course, Toronto has much to offer too. However, having grown up there and travelling there over the years for the Theatre and sports games, I’m very familiar. If you’ve never been, make a week of it. You won’t be bored, that’s for sure.
My sister, who grew up there as well, took a 2-hr Open air bus tour of the downtown core last year. She actually learned a lot of tidbits and tales she wasn’t aware of, and said it was a great thing to do, even for those who live there.
Organized Options for Solo Travellers
I am not a travel expert, so I asked around about companies that simplify logistics. Unfortunately, I didn’t get much feedback but I’ll include what I did hear:
- McCarthy’s Party was repeatedly recommended for Newfoundland.
- Senior Discovery Tours for structured group tours. I’ve heard positive experiences — though prices can be steep. There may be member discounts (for example through CARP). I’m not sure I’m ready for a large bus tour yet — or perhaps my mental image of one is outdated. It may be wiser to start with something shorter and closer to home.
- Intrepid Travel: Not Canadian, Australian, with a large presence in Canada for Canadian tours
- Solo Traveler. I came upon this article they wrote on their own website entitled “Solo Travel Canada: 60 Tips to Plan an Exciting Adventure“. The founder and publisher of this website appears to be contributing to both Canadian and American media and a member of the Travel Media Association of Canada. It’s unclear to me whether she and her counterpart are American or Canadian, I’m guessing American, but they seem to have a Canadian presence.
Don’t forget that professional associations and CARP (Canadian Association of Retired Persons) also organize trips. As a member of the Retired Teachers of Ontario (Entente), I regularly see travel offerings and I don’t think you need to be an educator to join. Given teachers’ reputations for loving accurate facts and asking detailed questions, tour guides must come well prepared!
I’ve also written a blog article on Solo Travel for the newbie and I’ll link it here as well.
The DIY Approach
Not everyone believes tour companies are necessary. Some suggested you can save 35–40% by booking independently. Hostels were recommended for sociability without long-term commitment. Apps like Rome2Rio can help map logistics.
One particularly clever strategy: if you are in the market for a newer vehicle, fly to a new location, purchase it there, and road-trip home. Adventurous and efficient.
Another suggestion: use a travel agent simply to create a logical itinerary — even if you book components yourself — to avoid costly backtracking.
Don’t forget about the house swapping and house or pet sitting groups you can join. There are a few of them. As always, you need to do your own due diligence and make your own decision about the inherent risks involved but I’ve had good luck with my pet sitters from Trusted House Sitters and I’ve seen there is also a Housesitters Canada though I know nothing about them so cannot speak from any experience on that. However, I just may do some pet sitting myself in the future to cut down the cost of travel and allow me to get out beyond my own green (white) pastures.
My Next Steps
I’m genuinely excited about what travel I may be able to finnagle in my future, though it’ll need to be very budget-friendly.
I don’t need five-star luxury. I want a comfortable bed, a good view, and the opportunity to finally experience Canada in places I’ve overlooked for too long.
And the suggestions are still rolling in. It appears Canada alone could keep me busy for the next decade or two.
If you’ve travelled within Canada recently, what was your one “must-see” that didn’t break the bank? And if you travelled solo, what helped keep costs down — while keeping the fun factor high? Did you have a great experience with a travel company for group travel? Share in the comments.
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