Give yourself a little “lift” this winter – The Joy of Travel

I know summer just arrived and you are likely wondering why I’m talking about winter but I’m a big fan of being prepared.

“Lift” is what we refer to as the seat capacity for outbound flights from Kelowna. Sadly, the days of three separate carriers competing for our travel dollars are over. This winter season, we are in a (virtual) monopoly. WestJet provides non-stop services to (all but one) points south.

With this information, understand last minute selloffs are a thing of the past.

Direct nonstop flights:

Cancun: Tuesdays, Nov 11-Apr 15; Fridays, Oct 11-Apr 18; Sundays, Oct 21-Apr20

Puerto Vallarta: Thursdays, Oct 10-Apr 24; Mondays, Nov 4-Apr 21

Cabo San Lucas: Saturdays, Oct 25-Apr 26

Mazatlan: Fridays, Dec 13-Apr 4 (operated by Sunwing)

Phoenix: Wednesdays, Oct 29-Apr 23

Las Vegas: Fridays, Nov 8-Apr 25; Mondays, Nov 11-Apr 21

Advance booking, especially during the peak travel seasons of Christmas and spring break, is highly recommended.

For those willing to consider connecting flights, there are many more options to consider. One caveat, however. I would never recommend a same-day connection during our winter season. Commuter flights (from Kelowna) to Calgary and Vancouver are notoriously affected by mechanical and weather-related issues. Depending on availability, it can be incredibly difficult to re-accommodate a passenger on another flight if they miss their connection.

Mexico City is a perfect choice as an alternate to Las Vegas and/or New York City. It has wonderful culture, cuisine, architecture and unending entertainment venues. All at a fraction of the cost of the American urban getaway. Air Canada has daily nonstop service from Vancouver to Mexico City.

Ixtapa provides guaranteed sunshine and endless unspoiled beaches. Ixtapa/Zihuatenejo is the favoured destination of the adult-oriented traveller. It’s not a kid-friendly destination.There is service to the area with Westjet and Air Canada from both Vancouver and Calgary.

For Tulum, there is a new international airport in Quintana Roo. For those wanting to avoid the long transit from Cancun to resorts south of Playacar, this new weekly service from Calgary will be welcomed.

Huatulco is a perfect destination for families. Quiet, laid-back ambiance, there is the opportunity to explore the unique little town of La Crucecita and take a day trip to the surfer vibe of Puerto Escondido. It’s the ultimate beach destination that will not disappoint. WestJet offers service from both Vancouver and Calgary.

Punta Cana, the Dominican Riviera offers deluxe five-star, all-inclusive resorts along a beach that extends more than 80 kilometres. There are all-encompassing adult-only options, as well as fully tricked out family resorts that rival Disneyland. There is service twice a week with WestJet out of Calgary.

Liberia, Costa Rica is a wonderful destination for the adventure enthusiast. Jungles, rivers, volcanoes, surfing and ziplines. I definitely recommend a stay of 10 nights or more to truly enjoy this incredibly versatile country. There are flights four times a week week with WestJet out of Calgary.

Montego Bay, Jamaica offers Caribbean rhythms and tropical vibes. A sun destination best approached with an open mind, as the “ganja”-infused Rastafarian culture can be a little intimidating and off-putting to some. The best beaches are in Negril.

Nassau, Bahamas provides turquoise waters, pink sand and swimming with pigs. Who could ask for more? A mixture of Spanish, West African and British influence, Nassau offers wonderful cultural and historical experiences, as well as pure powder sand beaches. The Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island is the ultimate indulgence for families or adults-only alike. Offering extensive dining, entertainment and accommodation options, as well as a 140-acre waterpark, Atlantis appeals to the kid in all of us. There are weekly flights out of Calgary with WestJet.

Varadero, Cuba. Sadly this destination is still recuperating from the post-Covid-related restrictions and supply train issues. Hard pressed to get the resorts back to full capacity, there have been numerous complaints relating to cleanliness and food quality. It’s hard for me to recommend it at this time. There are twice weekly flights from Calgary with WestJet.

And there you have it. There is a plethora of options for you to choose from. A little research, proactive planning and seat-sale pricing will result in your perfect winter vacation.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.