CANADA AN LGBT TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE FOR CANADA Toronto, Ontario
QUEENSTON STREET, ST. CATHARINES
2 NIAGARA REGION
CANADA: DIVERSITY AT ITS BEST:
The Niagara Region, only an hour drive from Toronto, has over 70 of the world’s finest, award-winning wineries. Touring the famous Niagara Wine Trail is without a doubt one of the most enjoyable of the many Niagara experiences. A visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake is like a stroll back through history. Enjoy world-class theatre, shopping, and historical sites, while discovering why the town has become a world-class culinary destination. Visit VisitNiagaraCanada.com
landscapes comes huge opportunities. There are countless unique experiences waiting to be discovered. Travel Gay Canada is here to help you create those memories.
CHURCH STREET, TORONTO
With such a vast land of varied cultures and
BANK STREET, OTTAWA
SOMERSET STREET, OTTAWA
WELLESLEY STREET, TORONTO
Ontario
1 TORONTO
Canada is one of the most progressive
An inspiring place that brings the Canadian
countries in the world and Ontario is proud to
big city experience to life, Toronto is a
be a leading province in lesbian, gay, bisexual,
major international centre for culture and
transgender (LGBT) and two-spirited civil
business. It has a unique human quality that
rights and equalities. Ontario provides top-
citizens and visitors alike appreciate and
class urban experiences, outdoor adventures
treasure. All cultures and walks of life are
and everything in between.
embraced in Toronto. A colourful tapestry of communities enhance the social, artistic,
Nothing beats a comfortable, stylish, hassle-
political and economic dimensions of
free haven to rest up and relax while on
Toronto, including a vibrant, thriving and
the road. Ontario’s many gay-friendly bed
integral LGBTQ culture and community of
& breakfasts, inns and hotels will roll out
over 650,000 people.
the welcome mat for you. Ontario loves to
NIAGARA FALLS Niagara Falls is a destination unlike any other. From the top of the Skylon Tower to the base of Horseshoe Falls, Niagara Falls is an awe-inspiring vacation destination. The Falls give off a round-the-clock roar, a refreshing, and surprisingly far-reaching mist and a reminder of just how wondrous our natural world is. From the marvel of gazing at the Falls from innumerable lookout points to adrenaline-fueled activities like whitewater jet boats, there are many ways for all ages to experience an array of attractions. Visit NiagaraFallsTourism.com
ST. CATHARINES Whether your destination of choice or the home base for a Niagara getaway, St. Catharines is right where you want to be. You can explore the city at your leisure or take a short country drive to one of the surrounding cities. As well, we’re only an hour from Toronto and 45 mins from Buffalo, New York. St. Catharines is a culinary hot spot where the bounty of our locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables are transformed into delicacies in any one of our restaurants and wineries. Take a leisurely drive or cycle through the wine route, sample our internationally renowned VQA wines and stop for culinary delight. Whether you are in the mood for organic creations, ethnic flavours, waterfront dining, a relaxing café or a pub lunch, we have it all in St. Catharines. Visit TourismStCatharines.ca Visit ThisIsWineCountry.ca
celebrate sexual and gender diversity! We are
As host to one of the world’s largest
host to numerous Pride festivals and events,
annual Pride festivals and WorldPride
gay and lesbian film festivals, as well as an
2014, Toronto’s lively cultural scene and
array of other queer-positive celebrations.
animated neighbourhoods as well as some
Make sure you experience our great wine and
of the world’s greatest attractions welcome
culinary, theatre, spa and golf offerings. And
Pridegoers from around the world. From
your visit to Ontario isn’t complete without a
the moment you arrive, you’ll discover
TWENTY VALLEY
taste of the great outdoors, where invigorating
that Toronto is a dynamic, energetic and
adventures abound. Come to LGBT-welcoming
creative place, one of the world’s most
Ontario where there truly is more to discover!
vibrant and welcoming cities.
Located in Niagara’s lush greenbelt, Twenty Valley encompasses the Town of Lincoln communities of Beamsville, Vineland and Jordan. Twenty Valley is a picturesque getaway and an extraordinary wineproducing and agricultural area. Just one hour south of Toronto, Twenty Valley is
Visit SeeTorontoNow.com For more ideas of things to do in Ontario, visit OntarioTravel.net/LGBT
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NIAGARA REGION
and families will have plenty to explore. Those who appreciate the great outdoors will fall in love with the extensive network of walking, hiking and cycling trails that traverse the entire region. Boat tours of the 1000 Islands weave slowly among tree-topped islets and larger islands with cottages, private mansions and castles. You can explore private beaches or the imposing sand dunes that rise behind a sun-lover’s beach of fine sand at Sandbanks Provincial Park. Artisanal foods and master chefs are peppered among
TORONTO
home to over 30 award winning wineries. Enjoy rolling vineyards, spectacular views, and delicious wine tastings. You won’t find two winery experiences the same, but you will find consistently good wines as you explore. Feeling a bit peckish? Farmto-table is a way of life in Twenty Valley. From stylish restaurants to casual bistros, “seasonal” winery patios to roadside farmers’ stands…we have something to tantalize every tastebud. You’ll feel well restored after a Twenty Valley food and wine pairing! Golfing, shopping, hiking the Bruce Trail or stretched out on a massage table…whatever your form of relaxation, we’ve got you covered. Take your Niagara visit to the next level and enjoy a Twenty Valley experience. Visit 20Valley.ca
the award-winning wineries of Prince Edward County. Visitors can join a wine tour and stop for a tasting along the Taste Trail or shop for local arts and crafts along the Arts Trail. Whatever your passion or interest, you can experience the land and water of The Great Waterway and let the local history come alive with your memorable journey.
3 OTTAWA
Visit OttawaTourism.ca
TWENTY VALLEY
Visit TheGreatWaterway.com
Waterway region in South Eastern Ontario hosts an abundance of natural, cultural and heritage riches that are a source of pride for the people who call it home. With pristine lakes, rivers, beaches and vibrant towns and cities, the curious day-tripper or couples
alongside the St. Lawrence River and is home of the world famous 1000 Islands. Tall ships, shipwrecks, hydroplane boat races, boat cruises and some of the world’s best
events for visitors to enjoy all summer long and throughout the year. One of the most picturesque areas in the world, Brockville is a
TORONTO
well-known tourist destination and is host to countless festivals, events and fun activities for visitors to enjoy. Visit BrockvilleTourism.com
PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY Prince Edward County is surrounded by water and you are never more than a few kilometers away from a coastline vista. Tour the winding country roads by car or bicycle and discover roadside stands, boutique wineries, farmers’ fields and artisan shops around every corner. Or tour the island from Lake Ontario, where first-class fishing, sailing and yachting await you. Home to Canada’s best freshwater beaches, Sandbanks Provincial Park contains the world’s largest freshwater sand bar and dune system. The soft white sand and crystal blue waters attract visitors from all over the world. Explore The County’s Taste Trail and discover OTTAWA, CANADA’S CAPITAL
Rideau Canal and Lake Ontario, The Great
Brockville is a city rich in history situated
watery wonderland with sights, activities and
4 THE GREAT WATERWAY Laced together by the St. Lawrence River,
BROCKVILLE
freshwater diving make this community a
WHIRLPOOL JET BOATS
Unique among Canadian cities and G8 capitals, Ottawa is a place of extraordinary experiences. Enjoy landmark capital sites, stunning cultural attractions, and a beautiful natural setting, all wrapped up in a relaxed urban vibe. Easily accessible, Ottawa is a two-hour drive from Montreal, and about a one-hour flight from Toronto or New York. Ottawa is a welcoming destination for lesbian and gay travelers, with an LGBT pedigree that extends back to the first-ever gay and lesbian public demonstration in Canada (1971). Visit the Supreme Court of Canada and Parliament Hill, where same-sex marriage was debated, and see the infamous “Fruit Machine”— used during the Cold War to “test” civil servants for homosexuality — at the Canadian War Museum. Today, Ottawa is home to very active gay and lesbian communities with an everexpanding variety of organizations and events—including a boisterous annual Pride Week in August. Downtown, the Bank Street/Somerset Street area is Ottawa’s premier gaybourhood, while the eclectic ByWard Market neighbourhood is another visitor favourite: a local farmers’ market and shopping district by day, with chic dining and lively clubs by night. Look for the Savour Ottawa program that’s all about locally grown foods.
sustainable farms, artisanal cheesemakers, cafes and restaurants producing phenomenal dishes using local ingredients. Pick up supplies for a picnic on the beach, stop at a charming spot or splurge on a romantic night out with a sophisticated, gourmet fine-dining experience. With all this and more, it’s no
Edward County “the gastronomic capital of Ontario”. We invite you to sip, taste and savour your way through The County!
MUSKOKA
secret why the Globe and Mail called Prince
Visit Prince-Edward-County.com
5 NORTHUMBERLAND Northumberland is a thriving, south eastern Ontario region strategically positioned along Highway 401 to access both Toronto and Kingston within a 1 to 1.5 hours drive. Northumberland County offers a range of
KINGSTON
experiences from historic towns to scenic
Beautiful and lively Kingston is nestled half-
rolling rural areas to spectacular water
way between Toronto and Ottawa, making
settings on Rice Lake, the Trent River and
it perfect for either a weekend retreat or
Lake Ontario. Northumberland is a four-
a conference. Known for its markets and
season tourism destination comprised
striking 19th-century limestone architecture,
of seven diverse, yet complementary municipalities. Explore our lakes, rivers,
Kingston is a great base for exploring the
streams and rolling hills!
and its national park. Eating in Kingston has become an art form: home of Canada’s first cookbook, and with more restaurants per
TORONTO
1000 Islands and the St. Lawrence River
Visit NorthumberlandTourism.com
PORT HOPE Located one hour east of Toronto, Port
we know food. Here you can enjoy exotic
Hope is a heritage community situated
tastes from around the globe without ever
on the north shore of Lake Ontario. Port
leaving the city or indulge in the exquisite
Hope is both an urban and rural paradise
foods fresh from the field. With a plethora
with the perfect mix of heritage charm,
of bars, restaurants, seasonal festivals and
modern vibrancy and cultural allure. This
even floating dance cruises, Kingston is the
beautiful community boasts a heritage
perfect place to blow off some steam. For
conservation downtown including Ontario’s
those with a love of history, sports, music or
best preserved Victorian main street. The
the arts, the possibilities for a perfect escape
Ganaraska River runs through the heart of
are endless. While you’re here, visit Wolfe Island on the free ferry, or hunt for antiques in nearby villages! It’s always a great time! Visit VisitKingston.ca
PORT HOPE
capita than almost any other city in Canada,
town past century old buildings. There are over 300 designated homes and building in Port Hope, more per capita than anywhere else in Canada. There are miles of waterfront tails, a sandy beach and scenic country driving routes. This diverse and popular
Welcome to the world famous 1000
tourist destination offers numerous
Islands region which is home to 1,864
antique boutique and specialty shops,
individual islands, UNESCO Heritage site
fine restaurants and well-appointed bed
and a UNESCO BIOSPHERE. Gananoque
and breakfasts and inns. The Capitol
is a storybook small town perched on the
Theatre offers year round professional
banks of the St. Lawrence River, in the heart
entertainment and a plethora of festivals
of the 1000 Islands, boasting 18th century
and events take place during the year
buildings, cycling, kayaking, trails and the
including the All Canadian Jazz Festival and
acclaimed Thousand Islands Playhouse and several of Canada’s top Signature Experiences including the Lost Ships Cruise
KINGSTON
1000 ISLANDS & GANANOQUE
the historic house tour. The friendly and open minded people of Port Hope invite and welcome all visitors to come for the day and
on the Gananoque Boat Line. Events in the
stay the night, or perhaps the rest of your life.
area include; a major Pride event featuring
Visit PortHopeTourism.ca
a 1000 Islands Pride Flotilla in June. Add a Pirate Festival featuring Johnny Depp’s
6 CENTRAL COUNTIES
stand in for the Pirates movies, our Big
We invite anyone in pursuit of fun and
Bass fishing challenge, music and heritage
excitement to visit Ontario’s Central
festivals, a spectacular show of fall colours,
Counties, comprising the special activities
restaurants, every weekend is an excuse for even more family fun! Visit 1000IslandsTourism.com
THE GREAT WATERWAY
luxury kayaking, funky downtown shops and
and fresh experiences of The Hills of Headwaters, York Region and Durham Region. Here you will find the multicultural communities that define the Canadian cultural mosaic together with awe-inspiring landscapes and abundant outdoor fun.
June 20-29, 2014
#DISCOVERON
worldpride.indd 1
Across the region, you will enjoy one-of-a
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7 EXPLORER’S EDGE
Muskoka was given the #1 spot in National
kind festivals and attractions and feel at
Kick back at the cottage or live large at
Geographic’s 10 Best Trips of Summer 2011
home in vibrant cities and quaint towns
a luxury resort and spa. Cruise into the
and was highlighted as one of the Best Trips
alike. And throughout your stay, you will
sunset onboard a steamship or hone your
of the World 2012. Muskoka Lakes’ winter
feast on farm-fresh foods, relax with unique
handicap on championship links. Meander
tourism was most recently showcased in
entertainment and soothe your spirit with
our charming downtowns, funky shops
Daily Xtra (a Canadian LGBT publication).
country living and all the breathing space you
and friendly folk, or hit the trails for some
Muskoka Lakes offers an unlimited array of
need. Just a stone’s throw from Toronto, you
adrenaline-fuelled fun, summer and winter.
activities during spring, summer, fall and
are remarkably close to magnificent parks,
With all this and more, Muskoka awaits you
winter that include boating, snowmobiling,
trails and paths, renowned golf courses,
- it’s year-round and conveniently close to
camping, fishing, hiking and so much more.
gorgeous gardens, eye-popping vistas,
home. One visit and you’ll see why we say:
Visit Muskoka Lakes to explore our trails,
wineries, breweries and a rejuvenating night’s
Once discovered, never forgotten.
rent a cottage and slip into “Muskoka Life”.
sleep. For those who want to enjoy the great
Visit ExplorersEdge.ca
We are home to some of Ontario’s best
outdoors, you can go kayaking and canoeing
restaurants, shopping and artist studios.
in our many waterways, cycling and hiking in
MUSKOKA LAKES
World famous for pristine waters, granite
our pristine parks and forests, zip lining and
Just two hours north of Toronto and an
landscape and brilliant fall colors, Muskoka
horseback riding and whatever else you want
hour south west of Algonquin Park, Muskoka
Lakes is a natural playground waiting for
for that challenging surge of energy.
Lakes is a popular year-round getaway for
you to explore!
Visit CentralCounties.ca
anyone looking for a great Ontario vacation!
Visit MuskokaLakesChamber.ca
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Canada awaits Discover an urban escape or resort getaway. From Victoria, British Columbia to St. John’s, Newfoundland and great places in between, our more than 65 hotels and resorts look forward to welcoming you. Visit SPG.COM to book today.
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8 SOUTHWEST ONTARIO
4/21/2014 1:58:40 PM
created in Windsor Essex Pelee Island. The
and its culture, which together have forged
Shaped by nature and steeped in history,
region, being the southernmost in Canada, is
its bold and exuberant identity.
culture and charm, Ontario’s Southwest is a
bursting with an exotic and unique balminess
mecca for fine dining, wine, festivals, arts &
during the summer and an exceptional
Montréal is Canada’s French-speaking centre.
culture and the outdoors. With 900+ km of
mildness in winter. The terroir accentuates
European influences flavour the food, the
shorelines, numerous river systems, nature
the complexity and diversity of the local
fashion and the city’s architecture. Dance in
trails, camping and scenic motorcycles
ecology, providing opportunities for world
the streets at the Festival International de
routes, it’s no wonder Ontario’s Southwest
class bird-watching, sampling close to 20
Jazz de Montréal. Or party like never before
attracts nature lovers. Want family fun?
award-winning wineries, a plethora of unique
at the world famous Black & Blue Festival.
Name your favourite music or fruit, and
dining delights and off-the-beaten path bed
Step back four centuries and experience a
we’ve probably got a festival to celebrate it.
and breakfasts. Nightlife can be scintillating
sense of old-world romance as you stroll the
If your passion is food, Ontario’s Southwest
in ambience, eclectic music notes and social
cobblestone streets of picturesque Québec
is a leading destination for wining and dining
exchanges. From the quaint and authentic
City. You can sense history’s battles at the
aficionados thanks to its deep agricultural
local pub to the more upscale lounge, from
rampart—the last standing fortified city walls
roots. Come sample award winning VQA
the intimate café to the alluring nightclub,
in North America. Laugh at the procession
wines while enjoying a delicious meal
there are many ways to be entertained and
of colourful “Giants” during Les Fêtes de la
showcasing the best of farm-to-table dining.
left stimulated within the region. Caesars
Nouvelle-France. Watch ice sculpting and
Visit OntariosSouthwest.com
Windsor brings Las Vegas to the region with
visit the gleaming ice palace at Carnaval
spectacular concerts, restaurants, high-end
de Québec, the largest winter carnival in
WINDSOR
luxury accommodations and a 24/7 casino.
the world.
A sea of greenery… a waterway of immense
Visit VisitWindsorEssex.com
pleasure and opportunity... trails on the forefront of outdoor captivation and retreat...a cultural tapestry bound by a rich storied past… These are just some of the “snapshots of life” which can be easily
Québec
Food defines much of what is extraordinary about Québec’s French-Canadian culture. Taste maple taffy on snow, or dine on trad-
Québec is truly a unique land in North
itional pea soup, tourtière and sugar pie at
America. Unique for its geography, its history
a romantic sugar shack. Blaze a culinary
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La Route des Saveurs de Charlevoix. Québec is warmth, absolute authenticity and intensity, all within easy reach!
QUÉBEC CITY
trail through the countryside on the famed
10 CHARLOTTETOWN Charlottetown, Canada’s Birthplace, has seen a tremendous growth in culinary experiences and arts and culture over the last decade while keeping its charm as a historic, seaside city. Centrally located,
9 MONTRÉAL
Charlottetown is the ideal place to stay while visiting world-renowned beaches
a storied history, and all the thrills of a
and golf courses across Prince Edward
trendsetting metropolis, offers an irresistible
Island. Experience the tranquility of strolling
mix of North American savoir-faire and
through Charlottetown’s historic downtown
European flair. Regularly shortlisted on
or along the waterfront followed by a meal
the top destination lists of LGBT media,
prepared by world-class chefs from the
Montréal is renowned for the world-class
harvest of surrounding seas and lands.
welcome it reserves for visitors, no matter what their sexual orientation. With a population of 3.7 million comprising 80
MONTRÉAL
Montréal, a city with boundless creativity,
Charlottetown is increasingly being hailed, internationally, as a foodie haven. Come stay in one of our upscale, modern hotels with all the amenities or travel back in time at one
English and many other languages, Montréal
of Charlottetown’s historic inns or B&Bs.
is a veritable mosaic of different people
2014 marks the 150th Anniversary of the
and neighbourhoods, including the vibrant
Meeting of the Fathers of Confederation
Gay Village, which becomes a car-free
where Canada was imaged. This July come
area from May-September. An international
to Charlottetown to celebrate the biggest
entertainment capital year-round, Montréal
Canada Day celebration east of Ottawa
is host to major LGBT events including
or come for Pride Week events from July
Divers/Cité, Montréal Pride, image+nation
27th-August 2nd. Everyone is welcomed to
film festival and the Black & Blue festival
Discover themselves in Charlottetown.
just to name a few. The many dimensions
Visit DiscoverCharlottetown.com
of language, culture, art, and sexuality fuel a passion and sophistication that is
HALIFAX
different cultural groups who speak French,
11 HALIFAX
unparalleled anywhere on the continent.
Situated on the second largest harbour
This is what visitors enjoy about our city.
in the world, Halifax, Nova Scotia has been
The freedom to explore. The freedom to
welcoming visitors for over 260 years.
be themselves. This is the quintessential
Offering a unique combination of history,
Montréal.
natural beauty and a vibrant city centre, this
Visit BuzzMTL.com/gay-life
safe and inviting destination for gay travel
Canada’s East Coast has more than its fair share of wonders. See the world’s highest tides, catch a lobster, tour the Anne of Green Gables house, tap to Maritime tunes. Almost every driving route and trail on Canada’s East Coast hugs magnificent beaches, coves, parks and bays. Visit tiny
LGBT community throws the largest Pride PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
Eastern Canada
is a must see year-round. Halifax’s lively festival in Atlantic Canada. This weeklong celebration occurs every July and boasts an array of events including theatre, music, art exhibits and the iconic Pride Parade that brings approximately 60,000 people into Halifax’s downtown core. Halifax’s downtown and the trendy North End neighbourhood are also home to several gay-owned cafés,
fishing villages along the breathtaking
bars and specialty shops where patrons are
Acadian Coastal Drive. Discover lively
always welcomed by the friendly nature
Celtic hospitality while feasting on fresh
of Haligonians.
seafood along the 185-mile Cabot Trail. There are numerous ways to get to Halifax.
Norse settlement and two UNESCO World
By air, the Halifax Stanfield International
Heritage sites. Stand on Cape Spear: scan
Airport offers direct flights from many
the horizon for icebergs, whales and the
Canadian, US, European, and Caribbean
phantom wrecks of ships lost at sea. Welcome to the EastCoast.
VICTORIA
Follow the Viking Trail to a 1,000-year-old
destinations. By sea, over 20 cruise lines include Halifax as a marquee port-of-call on their Canada-New England or Trans-atlantic itineraries. Visit RainbowHalifax.com
British Columbia is a land of contrasts
polar bears and beluga whales are observed in their natural habitat.
where the Rocky Mountains, Canada’s only desert, and the Pacific Ocean come
Whether travelers are looking for wide-open
together. People from around the world
spaces, an arctic adventure, serene lake life
coexist in British Columbia: from metro-
or a night out in the city, Manitoba offers an
polis Vancouver influenced by the Pacific
unforgettable experience.
WINDSOR
British Columbia
Rim, to its charming capital city Victoria, steeped in British charm and tradition.
13 WINNIPEG Located in the heart of North America,
British Columbia stretches from the Pacific
Winnipeg is a diverse, creative and
Ocean to the Canadian Rockies and from
affordable four-season destination that
the Canada/US border to Alaska and the
boasts family-friendly fun, international flair
Yukon Territory. The province offers cosmo-
and cosmopolitan experiences. This year,
politan cities and spectacular resorts,
the Canadian Museum for Human Rights
unspoiled national and provincial parks,
will open its doors, fostering conversation
and outstanding hotels and attractions.
and exploration of LGBT issues across the globe, while Assiniboine Park’s new Journey
polar bears. Winnipeg is also home to
and beams with ambience. Boasting the
Winnipeg Pride, the largest celebration
mildest climate in Canada we are green and
of LGBT culture between Vancouver and
beautiful year-round. In fact, Vancouver
Toronto. Known for our warm hospitality
Island, where Victoria is located, is rated
and inviting spirit, Winnipeg is a place
the TOP ISLAND in the Continental US and
where gay and lesbian rights are protected
Canada and one of the TOP TEN ISLANDS
and celebrated, a place where same-sex
IN THE WORLD by the 2012 Travel+Leisure
couples can legally marry and freedom
World’s Best Awards.
of expression is embraced. Renowned as the cultural cradle of Canada, Winnipeg is
In Victoria, heritage architecture, colourful
home to a thriving arts community including
gardens and traditions like afternoon tea
the world-class Winnipeg Art Gallery,
mix with a plethora of outdoor adventure,
Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Winnipeg
world-class culinary experiences and
Symphony Orchestra and Manitoba Theatre
a vibrant arts and culture scene. This
Centre. The city boasts more than 1,100
combined with the wild beauty of the
diverse restaurants, and great shopping
Pacific Ocean and old-growth rainforests
including big box stores, shopping malls and
set against a backdrop of the Olympic
boutiques in unique neighbourhoods.
Mountains makes Victoria the perfect
Visit TourismWinnipeg.com
getaway. We were even rated as the #1 DESTINATION TO VISIT IN CANADA by the 2010 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards. You should really come here. Visit TourismVictoria.com
Manitoba
Saskatchewan
Imagine 100,000 lakes and rivers, unspoiled wilderness and spectacular parks with countless opportunities to fish, canoe, camp, hike and cycle. Fill your lungs with clean, crisp air, view wildlife in this pristine
Nestled in the heart of the great Canadian
environment and simply breathe as you
landscape, Manitoba is an engaging place
relax and unwind. Whether you prefer to
to visit—a province full of untouched wildlife,
stay in cozy bed and breakfasts or luxurious
fresh air and vibrant communities waiting
all-season lakeside resorts, you will find
to be discovered.
accommodation to suit your taste and comfort level. Or enjoy horseback riding and
Manitoba is unrivalled in arts and culture,
a stay at an authentic working ranch.
the heart of the province’s diverse and creative communities. Manitoba’s polar
Saskatchewan’s urban scene delivers on
bears, beluga whales, and northern lights
a diversity of world class annual music
are second to none. Hearts beat faster when
festivals, such as the SaskTel International
NISTOWIAK FALLS, SASKATCHEWAN
of all ages with their loveable family of
visitors an escape from the hurried world
CMHR, WINNIPEG
to Churchill exhibit delights audiences
As an island destination, Victoria offers
SASKATOON, SASKATCHEWAN
12 VICTORIA
CHURCHILL, MANITOBA
Welcome to Gay and Lesbian Winnipeg. Renowned for unmatched natural beauty,
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The Westin Trillium House, Blue Mountain, Ontario, Canada
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Jazz Festival in Saskatoon or the Regina
amongst the magical prairie skies and
Folk Festival. In Regina and Saskatoon,
the urban parkland river valley of the
our two largest cities, enjoy lively nightlife,
South Saskatchewan River, lies an eclectic
world-class museums and galleries, historical
collection of hidden gems, just begging to be
attractions and fabulous retail therapy. Treat
rediscovered each waking day, creating new
your palate to distinctive local cuisine and
and unique moments of wonderful surprise
internationally-recognized locally brewed
for each and every visitor to Saskatoon. Our
lagers and ales, or take in one of the many
willingness to share our home and our stories
annual culinary festivals, such as Taste of
is matched only by our zest and energy in
Saskatchewan or the Great Saskatchewan
creating new memories with our guests.
Mustard Festival. Saskatoon has been showing our PRIDE and Direct flights to Regina and Saskatoon are
celebrating with the Saskatoon Diversity
available from Vancouver, Toronto, Chicago,
Network for more than 20 years. Join us in
Minneapolis and Denver.
June for our celebrations.
Visit TourismSaskatchewan.com Fly into the Saskatoon’s John G. Diefenbaker
14 SASKATOON
International Airport, with non-stop service
Experience a place of surprise and
to and from all major hubs in Canada,
discovery. Saskatoon provides visitors
Denver, Minneapolis, and Chicago in the
from near and far with the opportunity to
United States.
experience the unforgettable. Our vibrant
Visit TourismSaskatoon.com
TRAVELGAY CANADA MEMBERS ARE COMMITTED TO PROVIDING YOU WITH AN EXCEPTIONAL TRAVEL EXPERIENCE
city is host to unique and captivating events, attractions, and natural treasures, just waiting to be explored. Somewhere
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tourismsaskatoon.com Toll Free: 1.800.567.2444
TRAVEL GAY CANADA DESTINATION MEMBERS
TRAVEL GAY CANADA NATIONAL MEMBERS VIA RAIL CANADA
STARWOOD HOTELS AND RESORTS
VIA Rail is Canada’s national passenger rail service. Convenient downtown to downtown daily departures to and from Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, Quebec City and Windsor allow travellers to discover Ontario and Quebec’s urban gems. Regular year-round services from Halifax to Vancouver offer a full touring experience of Canada like no other. Whether travelling in Economy, Business or Sleeper Touring class, VIA’s service is exceptional. Discover Canada with VIA Rail Canada, a more human way to travel. 1-888-VIA-RAIL (888-842-7245) Visit ViaRail.ca
Starwood Hotels & Resorts and the Starwood Preferred Guest program offer unforgettable experiences all around the globe with celebrated brands, Sheraton, Westin, Le Méridien, W, Four Points, Aloft, Element, St. Regis and The Luxury Collection. Here in Canada we have more than 60 hotels and resorts from coast-to-coast offering great urban experiences, delightful resort retreats and gateway destinations. As an initial founding member of Travel Gay Canada and present day national partner, we’re committed to supporting the LGBT community and providing a great way to experience travel. Starwood Canada is an active and enthusiastic national partner of Pride at Work. We are delighted that that World is coming to Toronto in 2014, but you don’t need to wait until then to get your pride on with Starwood. We look forward to welcoming you soon. Visit StarwoodHotels.com / SPG.com
DAYS INN Days Inn helps you travel more and spend less! Enjoy clean, comfortable rooms at great prices, free high-speed Internet, SolTerre Shower Experience, DayDreamer Sleep Experience and either a free delicious Daybreak Cafe breakfast or an on-site restaurant. We guarantee our friendly hospitality, exceptional service and great value will help make your stay enjoyable. With over 100 Canadian hotels coast to coast, there’s sure to be one at your next destination. Plus, you’ll always find the best rate guaranteed when you book direct: 1-800-DAYS-INN (329-7466) Visit DaysInn.ca
HILTON WORLDWIDE 10 brands. 90 countries. 4,000 hotels. 670,000 rooms. Countless opportunities to delight. An open door. A welcoming smile. An exceptional experience. That’s what we offer the millions of travelers who stay with us every year. And we never forget the reason we’re here: to delight our guests, team members and owners alike. We’re Hilton Worldwide. Welcome. Visit Hilton.com/Canada
TRAVEL GAY CANADA NATIONAL MEMBERS
All National destination and travel partners are proud members of Travel Gay Canada.
AIR CANADA Enjoy hassle-free transfers via Toronto – it’s convenient, all within one terminal and under one roof. When you connect from the US to our international flight network, there’s no need to clear customs or immigration, or claim your baggage – it is automatically sent to your next Air Canada flight. Experience why Air Canada was voted Best Airline in North America, four years in a row by Skytrax. When you fly with us, great fares are only the beginning. Add to that the most choice of non-stops flights, advance check-in online for your boarding passes, personal touch-screen TVs at every seat, and power outlets within easy reach. Plus earn miles on the Star Alliance frequent flyer program of your choice. Visit AirCanada.com
PARK’N FLY Park’N Fly is the only national airport parking facility with locations in Vancouver, Edmonton, Ottawa, Toronto and Halifax. It operates two distinct options; Drop’N Go™ Valet and Self-Park. Drop’N Go™ Valet Service ensures that a professional team of service providers looks after your vehicle while you are away. Valet Services are available at Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal locations. Self-Park customers can find their perfect spot at one of our many locations, including Edmonton, Ottawa, Toronto, Montreal and Halifax. Self-Park is ideal for both long term and short-term stays.
THE MUSEUM FOR HUMAN RIGHTS An amazing architectural icon has sprouted from the Prairie soil at the heart of North America. A glowing symbol of hope for human rights, Canada’s brand-new national museum will take you on a multi-sensory journey through darkness and light. You’ll find the struggle for LGBTTQ rights reflected in powerful ways throughout its galleries, including a celebratory treatment of legalized same-sex marriage. Gender-neutral washrooms reflect a commitment to inclusion. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg will be the first museum in the world devoted exclusively to human-rights concepts, with a mission to inspire global citizens who care for humanity. Opening in 2014. Visit MuseumForHumanRights.ca
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DISCOVER CANADA TRAVELGAYCANADA.COM
BRITISH COLUMBIA
MANITOBA PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND 14
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ONTARIO
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QUÉBEC
SASKATCHEWAN 13
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NOVA SCOTIA
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As Canada’s only national gay and lesbian travel association, we can assist you in creating exceptional experiences and packages. Our members from coast to coast are ready to welcome you.
PHOTO CREDITS COVER & ONTARIO: Ontario Tourism
Contact us at 1 866 300 7556 or office@travelgaycanada.com, or visit TravelGayCanada.com for ideas and sample itineraries to assist you in planning the ultimate Canadian adventure.
Marketing Partnership Corporation QUÉBEC CITY: Canadian Tourism Commission CHURCHILL: Canadian Tourism Commission NISTOWIAK FALLS: Tourism Saskatchewan, Paul Austring