Fredericton comes alive for six days each September for the Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival as hundreds of world class performers appear on dozens of stages, all conveniently located in Fredericton’s beautiful and historic downtown.  Whether you want to dance all night at a spicy Cajun party, listen to the raw sounds of electric blues, sway to some smooth jazz or just get your funk on, you’ll find something to tempt every musical taste – all at a price that’s easy on the wallet. The festival takes place from 14^th – 19^th September. See www.harvestjazzandblues.com for more information.

The capital city of Fredericton is perfect for an Autumn escape. The cycling trails along the St. John River are a great way to meander through the city, just as the leaves are starting to change.  Cool evenings and pleasantly warm days, make it the perfect time of year for discovering this East Coast gem. The Boyce Farmers Market on Saturdays is an abundance of fresh, local harvest produce and a colourful place to explore. A wide range of restaurants throughout Fredericton offer a taste of Autumn using an array of local ingredients.

Music and menus, what a heavenly combination!

Try the “Delicious Delights of Dildo” this Autumn in Newfoundland and Labrador

September and October on the Avalon Peninsula, Newfoundland and Labrador offers stunning coastlines, migrating birds, lighthouses and quaint harbour towns to explore. The beautiful scenery makes the province the perfect outdoor lover’s paradise, great for pulling on your hiking boots and hitting the trails. In the evening, sit back, relax, and enjoy some local theatre where actors whisk you away to another place and time, or experience local traditions at one of many vibrant autumn festivals.

The Inn by the Bay is a Canada Select Country Inn, located in Dildo, a traditional Newfoundland outport. The ‘Delicious Delights In Dildo’ package includes 1 nights’ accommodation in the Postage Room, Smith Room or Reid’s Room, dinner for 2 at a local restaurant and a welcome food themed gift basket as well as 15% discount at the Dildo Trading Post. All this for just $179/£115 per couple.  Inn by the Bay is conveniently located on the Baccalieu Trail, a quick 50 minutes from St. John’s and directly on the oceanfront.

Celebrate vibrant colours and Celtic music in Nova Scotia

The Celtic Colours International Festival takes place from 8-16 October. The nine day festival on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, is home to a unique celebration of music and culture.  Celtic Colours International Festival presents over 200 musicians, dancers, singers and storytellers in concerts and workshops in communities around Cape Breton. Experience the Celtic culture when the fall leaves are at their most brilliant and travelling around offers one spectacular view after another. www.celtic-colours.com

Nova Scotia becomes even more vibrant with the changing colours of the fall leaves.  The spectacular Cabot Trail, on Cape Breton Island, is considered one of the world’s most scenic drives and is truly breathtaking during Mother Nature’s display of fall foliage. Drive this magnificent highway carved into the edge of ancient highlands ascending to the incredible plateaus of Cape Breton Highlands National Park.  To fully enjoy this beautiful area, explore the charming communities around the Cabot Trail, hike highland trails, golf, sea-kayak, and listen to the local Celtic music. The Cabot Trail is awe-inspiring in all seasons. www.novascotia.com

Escape this Autumn and sample the flavour of Prince Edward Island

Autumn in Prince Edward Island, Canada’s smallest province, offers picture perfect weather, blue skies, beautiful seas and gently changing colours. It can also be a great time of year to get a deal as the Island’s hotels and cottages offer unbeatable packages to extend the season. Enjoy a culinary masterpiece, unforgettable golf, first-rate theatre, plenty of shopping, and accommodations to match every taste – all at special autumn rates that will keep you smiling long after you’ve returned home. Discover your Fall Escape to Prince Edward Island.

The Fall Flavours event takes place from 3^rd – 30^th September and is the perfect way to discover the source of local foods and to see how they’re prepared and served. Choose from more than 130 events, including Farm Day in the City, Organic Harvest Meal, and the Handcrafted Ales & Wine Festival. Take part in interactive workshops to learn about pickling and preserves, or the art of cheese-and-wine pairing. Join PEI’s renowned chef, Michael Smith for the ‘Taste Our Island Roving Feast’.  

Flights to the region of Atlantic Canada are available with Canadian Affair. Return Economy Class flights from London Gatwick to Halifax from £326 per person including taxes.  Based on travel dates 14-21 October 2010. For further information or to make a reservation please call 020 7616 9933 or visit www.canadianaffair.com

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For media enquiries, images or to arrange a press trip to Atlantic Canada contact Tanya Hillman or Kylie Rathbone at KBC Public Relations and Marketing: Telephone: 01825 76 36 36 Email – tanya.hillman@kbc-pr.com

Editors Notes:

The Atlantic Canada region is coastal Canada on our doorstep.  Just five hours away from the UK, the provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island have all the perfect elements for an interesting and inspiring escape.  Each province has its own character but all are renowned for their outstanding natural beauty, stunning coastline, friendly people, incredible seafood, UNESCO World Heritage sites and National Parks. This region really is Canada’s best-kept secret.

To discover more about Atlantic Canada visit www.AtlanticCanadaHoliday.ca. or take a tour.

 September 2010

Prince Edward Island may be Canada’s smallest province but it offers the perfect summer escape. Full of character and offering a warm welcome, the 5,656 square kilometre island sits in Atlantic Canada’s Gulf of St Lawrence.  The Island’s fertile green fields are surrounded by 1,600 kilometres of coastline, dramatic red sandstone cliffs and white sandy beaches that dip into the warmest waters on the Eastern Seaboard.

Beachcombing, clambakes, lobster dinners, great music, time on the fairway or in the saddle all add up to a perfect holiday. Prince Edward Island is the epitome of a traditional beach holiday – the type which creates happy memories for years to come for both adventurous families and pleasure seeking couples.

Take to the waves

With over 90 beaches and warm waters Prince Edward Island is perfect for water-based sports and experiences. Here are five of the best.

1. Deep Sea Fishing – Join a local fisherman to fish for giant bluefin tuna, mackerel and shark.

2. Kayaking & canoeing – Explore hidden bays and watch bird and marine life as you paddle your own canoe – great fun for families!

3. Kiteboarding – One of the fastest growing watersports in the world, the Island’s shallow bays and consistent winds provide an excellent setting for kiteboarding adventures.

4. Sailing – Join a charter or brush up your skills at a sailing school. Prince Edward Island offers stunning harbours and breathtaking coastlines to explore.

5. Parasailing – What better way to see Prince Edward Island than with a birds-eye view?

An island packed with flavour – top experiences for “foodies”

As an island of farmers and fisherman it offers unrivalled cuisine experiences from gourmet dining to local lobster suppers. Visitors are always left satisfied with memories of marvellous meals.

Tong & Shuck – Take an oyster dory and sample PEI’s freshest oysters as you learn how to harvest, tong and shuck.

Culinary Boot Camps – For a food experience never to be forgotten, visitors can sign up for one of the Culinary Institute’s Boot Camps half or full-day courses. Work with an experienced chef in a state-of-the-art kitchen and learn how to create mouth-watering dishes from PEI’s freshest ingredients.

Windows on the Water – Sit on a wrap-around deck and enjoy the view of Montague Harbour. Using locally grown produce whenever possible, the restaurant is the winner of the coveted Island Shellfish Chowder Competition.

PEI International Shellfish Festival – 17 – 19 September – Renowned as the biggest Kitchen Party in Atlantic Canada, this fun-packed festival offers plenty of live music, cooking demonstrations, brimming bowls of Seafood Chowder and freshly steamed mussels and clams.

Fall Flavours Culinary Festival – 1 September – 3 October – Across the Island, over 150 culinary events will be taking place from rustic suppers to lobster dinners with crustaceans purchased fresh from nearby boats.   

To see a video of a lobster fishing trip in Prince Edward Island click here

Places to stay & holidays from the UK

The tallest lighthouse – Elevate your holiday plans and stay in the Island’s tallest light house. West Point Lighthouse was Canada’s first active lighthouse inn and still guides ships past the west coast. All rooms have a walk-out deck overlooking a stunning beach.

Stay in Victorian Splendour – Victorian Inn, Dalvay-by-the-Sea offers a real escape.  It’s a National Historic Site and the rooms have no TV’s, telephones or radios, leaving just the sounds of the ocean to lull you to sleep.

Flights: Canadian Affair (020 7616 9933 / www.canadianaffair.com) offers return Economy Class flights from London Gatwick to Halifax from £458 per person including taxes, the drive to Prince Edward Island is a leisurely three hours.

Holiday Package: Canadian Affair (020 7616 9933 / www.canadianaffair.com) offers a 14 night Atlantic Canada Adventure fly-drive holiday from £1,229 per person with accommodation in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.  Based on two people sharing on a room only basis.  It includes return Economy Class flights from London Gatwick to Halifax and car hire for the duration of the trip.

Holiday Package: Prestige Holidays (www.prestigeholidays.co.uk/canada , 01502 567 222) is offering its 13 night Maritime Magic tour from £1795 per person in September. The package includes: Air Canada flights (economy class) London Heathrow / Halifax / Heathrow,13 nights accommodation in standard hotels, a four hour whale watching excursion and the rental of mid size vehicle – pick up / drop off Halifax Airport including unlimited mileage, LDW, all taxes and airport fees and up to $1M liability cover. Clients also receive a full self drive kit with itinerary, maps, sightseeing information etc. Please note: the cost of the ferry to Prince Edward Island is not included and cannot be pre-booked, the estimated charge for a car and two passengers is $68.

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For media enquiries, images or to arrange a media visit to Prince Edward Island and Atlantic Canada, contact Tanya Hillman or Kylie Rathbone at KBC Public Relations and Marketing: Telephone: 01825 76 36 36 Email – tanya.hillman@kbc-pr.com

Editor’s Notes:

The Atlantic Canada region is coastal Canada on our doorstep.  Just five hours away from the UK, the provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island have all the perfect elements for an interesting and inspiring escape.  Each province has its own character but all are renowned for their outstanding natural beauty, stunning coastline, friendly people, incredible seafood, UNESCO World Heritage sites and National Parks. This region really is Canada’s best-kept secret.

To discover more about Atlantic Canada visit www.AtlanticCanadaHoliday.ca. or take a tour.

16th June 2010

With a plethora of things to see and do, these 14 to 21 day tours, with Audley Travel, Bridge & Wickers, Experience Holidays and Tailor Made Travel, allow travellers the chance experience all that Atlantic Canada has to offer.  They can all be found at www.AtlanticCanadaHoliday.ca/UK

Tailor Made Travel – Maritime Expedition 20-day Self Drive

Noted for spectacular scenery and diverse wildlife, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island boast a unique and distinct maritime heritage. Discover timeless coastal villages, endless beaches, abundant wildlife including whales and moose all within close proximity to picturesque towns and villages offering the freshest seafood, inviting accommodation and cultural entertainment. Package prices from £1,459 per person, excluding flights. Valid for travel between 1 June and 31 October, 2010. For more information on this package from Tailor Made Travel visit www.AtlanticCanadaHoliday.ca/UK

Audley Travel –Maritime Provinces, 21-day Self Drive

Starting in Nova Scotia’s historic port city of Halifax, this trip heads out on the ‘Lighthouse Route’ along the South Shore to Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site before heading north to pastoral Annapolis Royal. Then travel by ferry, across the highest tides in the world of the Bay of Fundy to New Brunswick with its’ lush interior landscape, craggy Fundy coast, warm sandy beaches and abundance of fresh seafood. Cross the 13 kilometre Confederation Bridge to Prince Edward Island with its’ inviting beaches and literary associations, before returning to Nova Scotia to spend some time exploring the stunning Cabot Trail and the National Historic Site, Louisbourg. Package priced from £2,385 per person based on two adults sharing a room and includes international flights. Valid for travel until 31 October, 2010. For more information on this package from Audley Travel visit www.AtlanticCanadaHoliday.ca/UK

Bridge & Wickers – Newfoundland & Labrador 14-day Self Drive Adventure

This distinctive destination has dramatic scenery, the friendliest people, charming accommodations, the freshest cuisine and unique colourful architecture. The diverse and exciting experiences include Terra Nova National Park’s soaring headlands and idyllic islands of Bonavista Bay, and Gros Morne National Park, a UNSECO World Heritage Site, with its glacier carved fjords, stunning scenery and grand nature. Twillingate, in Notre Dame Bay, is premier iceberg territory, while Trinity and the Avalon Peninsula host many whale-watching and seabird tours. It is truly a superb showcase of nature at its best. Package priced from £1,610 per person, excluding flights. Valid for travel from June to September, 2010. For more information on this package from Bridge & Wickers visit www.AtlanticCanadaHoliday.ca/UK

Experience Holidays – Maritime Provinces 14-day Self DriveThis 14 day self drive offers a fascinating glimpse into 3 Maritime Provinces. New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island offer a coast of discoveries – from the highest tides in the world in the Bay of Fundy, to the world’s most scenic drive, the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island, to the sun kissed beaches on Canada smallest province, Prince Edward Island. The region’s charming coastline, majestic National Parks, exciting outdoor adventures and warm hospitality add up to a perfect holiday. Travellers can relax and unwind all in close proximity to picturesque towns and villages offering the freshest seafood and inviting accommodations. Package priced from £1,076 per person, excluding flights. Valid for travel from 15 May to 15 October, 2010.  For more information on this package from Experience Holidays visit www.AtlanticCanadaHoliday.ca/UK

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 For media enquiries, images and more details on Atlantic Canada contact Tanya Hillman or Kylie Rathbone at KBC Public Relations and Marketing: Telephone: 01825 76 36 36 Email – tanya.hillman@kbc-pr.com

Editors Notes:

The Atlantic Canada region is coastal Canada on our doorstep.  Just five hours away from the UK, the provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island have all the perfect elements for an interesting and inspiring escape.  Each province has its own character but all are renowned for their outstanding natural beauty, stunning coastline, friendly people, incredible seafood, UNESCO World Heritage sites and National Parks. This region really is Canada’s best-kept secret.

To discover more about Atlantic Canada visit www.AtlanticCanadaHolidays.ca. or take a tour.

1 June 2010

Uniquely the London RT class buses are the very last ones of their kind working anywhere in the world. It was Mr. Conn Murphy’s passion for these bright red beauties which led him to ship his first double-decker from London to his home in Prince Edward Island. From this one bus, Abegweit Sightseeing Tours was born.  Mr. Murphy died in 1985 but his wife Shirley continued to run the business with the same dedication. The London double-deckers became a regular site across the Island, loved by locals and visitors alike.

Recently Shirley decided to sell the buses to British businessman Roger Wright, who owns the largest fleet of London double-deckers in the world.  Guided by her heart, Shirley felt they would be well looked after by Mr. Wright. The much-loved Prince Edward Island buses will now live out their retirement in a museum in Essex. The buses are all in excellent original condition and even have their original advertisements inside such as, “London Sightseeing Tour for 65p”!

Whilst the buses may be coming back, Prince Edward Island is popular with visitors from the UK for offering relaxed Canadian beach life, luxury resorts, the freshest possible seafood and activities such as golf, kayaking, hiking, fishing and cycling.  This summer Taylor Swift will travel to the Island to head up the second annual Cavendish Beach Festival. It’s a pity she will not ride into town aloft a double-decker!

For more information on Prince Edward Island visit www.gentleisland.com

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For media enquiries, images or to arrange a press trip to Atlantic Canada contact Tanya Hillman or Kylie Rathbone at KBC Public Relations and Marketing: Telephone: 01825 76 36 36 Email – tanya.hillman@kbc-pr.com

Editors Notes:

The Atlantic Canada region is coastal Canada on our doorstep.  Just five hours away from the UK, the provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island have all the perfect elements for an interesting and inspiring escape.  Each province has its own character but all are renowned for their outstanding natural beauty, stunning coastline, friendly people, incredible seafood, UNESCO World Heritage sites and National Parks. This region really is Canada’s best-kept secret.

 To discover more about Atlantic Canada visit www.AtlanticCanadaHolidays.ca. or take a tour.                          

 26^th May 2010

With its stunning coastline, mighty rivers and the unique Bay of Fundy, it’s New Brunswick’s natural assets that are drawing holidaymakers to this special part of Canada. Just over five hours away from the UK, New Brunswick offers the excitement of Canada, on our doorstep.

Paddle your way to a unique summer holiday – sea kayaking adventure

For 3 days you can kayak the longest uninhabited coastline on the east coast of Canada. Enjoy camping on secluded beaches and feast on seafood from the Bay of Fundy. Adventurers will learn about the Bay’s ecology, tides and sea life. Share the waters with seals, porpoises, a multitude of shorebirds and perhaps even the rare North Atlantic Right Whale.

The coastline is spectacular with high cliffs, seas stacks and caves. No kayaking experience is necessary but a good general level of fitness is recommended. The trip operates in July and August and costs £372 per person including three nights accommodation, three breakfasts, one lunch and all equipment and guiding.

Flights from London Heathrow to Fredericton, via Halifax are available from Air Canada from £689 per person.  For more information or to book please call 020 8776 8709 or visit Frontier Canada at http://www.frontier-canada.co.uk

Join our election and vote for the Bay of Fundy!

The eyes of the world are currently upon Canada’s Bay of Fundy. It has been selected as a finalist in a global campaign to select the new seven wonders of nature. This beautiful, natural phenomenon has the highest tides in the world and everyday 100 billion tonnes of seawater roll into the bay. The Bay is the summer feeding ground for half the world’s population of the endangered North Atlantic Right Whale. So join the election race and vote fundy! votemyfundy.com

Food Glorious Food – Fiddlehead ferns, purple seaweed and seafood

Great food is a vital element of any holiday. New Brunswick has cuisine to satisfy the most demanding galloping gourmet. Famous for its seafood; lobster, scallops and fresh oysters are all readily available. Visitors can join the crew of a local lobster fisherman and learn how to catch and cook their own lobster.

May is Fiddlehead season in the province. This fern is a delicacy which sprouts to life on the banks of rivers throughout the province. The ferns are picked whilst young and curled and are at their best steamed until tender.  Dulse, the purple seaweed is harvested by hand from the west coast of Grand Manan Island, off the Southern coast of New Brunswick in the Bay of Fundy. This “super food” can be added to salads, soup, pasta and seafood chowders to give it a nutritional boost as it is one of the most powerful plants on the planet and a natural source of iodine and chlorophyll.         

Claims to Fame

Longest Covered Bridge in the World

The 1,282 foot Hartland Covered Bridge is the longest covered bridge in the world.  It was originally constructed by the Hartland Bridge Company and has since been declared a Provincial and National Historic Site. Formed by citizens on both sides of the St. John River it officially opened July 4, 1901.

New Brunswick has 62 covered bridges located throughout the Province and with over 80 rivers in New Brunswick, such bridges are essential.  Local legend tells that the bridges were covered to resemble barns, so farm animals would feel more at home as they crossed the rushing waters and would not stampede!

The McCain Family – A chip off the old block

Brothers Harrison and Wallace McCain were the great grand sons of Irish potato farmers who emigrated to New Brunswick in the late 1800’s. The brothers created the internationally renowned McCain’s frozen food empire in 1956. The company entered the British market in 1965 much to the delight of many housewives who could now throw away their potato peelers! McCain Foods is still located in Florenceville and has more than 50 food-production facilities operating on four continents.

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 For media enquiries, images or to arrange a media visit to New Brunswick and Atlantic Canada, contact Tanya Hillman or Kylie Rathbone at KBC Public Relations and Marketing: Telephone: 01825 76 36 36 Email – tanya.hillman@kbc-pr.com

Editors Notes:

The Atlantic Canada region is coastal Canada on our doorstep.  Just five hours away from the UK the provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island have all the perfect elements for an interesting and inspiring escape.  Each province has its own character but all are renowned for their outstanding natural beauty, stunning coastline, friendly people, incredible seafood, UNESCO World Heritage sites and National Parks. This region really is Canada’s best-kept secret.

To discover more about Atlantic Canada visit www.AtlanticCanadaHolidays.ca. or take a tour.

Join our party!

Taylor Swift signs up for the Cavendish Beach Festival, Prince Edward Island

Plan your own great party once the election is over and head for Atlantic Canada’s beautiful Prince Edward Island. The second annual Cavendish Beach Music Festival will combine 25 of the world’s greatest musicians to perform live over five days in breathtaking Cavendish Beach. The festival includes other big names such as Keith Urban and Emerson Drive. The festival takes place between 8^th -11^th July and a five day pass starts from $235.25/£152.

Following the buzz of the party, kick-back and enjoy Prince Edward Island’s endless beaches, great seafood and sporting activities on land and sea. www.gentleisland.com

Your voice counts – vote for the Bay of Fundy!

The eyes of the world are currently upon Canada’s Bay of Fundy. It has been selected as a finalist in a global campaign to select the new seven wonders of nature. This beautiful, natural phenomenon has the highest tides in the world and everyday 100 billion tonnes of seawater roll into the bay. The Bay is the summer feeding ground for half the world’s population of the endangered North Atlantic Right Whale. We think the Bay of Fundy deserves your vote so join the election race and vote Fundy! votemyfundy.com

To visit the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick, Frontier Canada has fly-drive holidays to the region starting at £1043 per person, including flights, 7 nights accommodation and car rental. For more information or to book call 020 8776 8709 or visit Frontier Canada at www.frontier-canada.co.uk

Vote with your feet and run on the ocean floor in Nova Scotia

If the London Marathon has left you inspired and eager to face a new challenge, then book a holiday to Nova Scotia and take part in the “Not Since Moses” , 5,000 or 10,000 metre race, running on the ocean floor of the fabled Bay of Fundy. As the seabed briefly opens up and the highest tides in the world recede, runners can compete and run or walk this year’s brand new course, surrounded by mesmerising red cliffs and the sound of seabirds. 

After facing the challenging sticky mud, participants will be rewarded on their return with beer, hotdogs and music.

The event takes place on the 14^th August, making it the perfect time to discover the region. Registration costs $45/£29 for more information see; www.notsincemoses.com

Flights from the UK to Halifax with Canadian Affair are available from £666, departing 12^th August 2010, for seven nights.  To book, visit www.canadianaffair.com or call 020 7616 9933.     

Elect to take the direct route – new direct service to Newfoundland & Labrador

From May, UK holidaymakers can now fly direct to St. John’s Newfoundland. Air Canada’s inaugural daily non-stop flight will commence from London Heathrow on 27^th May. The new service will operate until 26^th September 2010.  Flights to this stunning area, renowned for its wildlife, beautiful scenery, whale-watching, icebergs, national parks and friendly people will start from £685. To book see www.aircanada.ca or call 0871 220 1111.

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For media enquiries, images or to arrange a press trip to Atlantic Canada contact Tanya Hillman or Kylie Rathbone at KBC Public Relations and Marketing: Telephone: 01825 76 36 36 Email – tanya.hillman@kbc-pr.com

Editors Notes:

The Atlantic Canada region is coastal Canada on our doorstep.  Just five hours away from the UK, the provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island have all the perfect elements for an interesting and inspiring escape.  Each province has its own character but all are renowned for their outstanding natural beauty, stunning coastline, friendly people, incredible seafood, UNESCO World Heritage sites and National Parks. This region really is Canada’s best-kept secret.

To discover more about Atlantic Canada visit www.AtlanticCanadaHolidays.ca. or take a tour.

Explore the flavours of Nova Scotia with Adventures in Taste.  These self-guided tours offer culinary and wine adventures uniquely representative of Nova Scotia’s culture, heritage and lifestyle.  From winemakers, farms, fisherman and local markets, there are mouth watering treats like maple syrup, blueberries, lobster and wine to discover from Cape Breton to Yarmouth.  www.adventuresintaste.ca

Canada’s newest national park, the Torngat Mountains National Park offers insight and a chance to connect with Inuit philosophy at kANGIDLUASUk, the Inuit base camp at the southern entrance to the Park. Visitors can interact with knowledgeable elders and take part in traditional Inuit activities like fishing for char, walking on the tundra, hearing the stories, and enjoying the magnificence of ‘The Big Land’.  www.kangidluasuk.com

The Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival, Atlantic Canada’s premier international music festival experience, is celebrating 20 years of energising an entire city. Fredericton is transformed into a giant bash over six days each September. More than 350 musicians from Canada and around the world perform avant-garde jazz and blues, folk and rock, on 23 indoor and outdoor stages. www.harvestjazzandblues.ca

Tranquillity Cove Adventures, based in Prince Edward Island combines the ocean, wildlife, adventure and great cuisine in a day to remember. You will be outfitted with all the gear you need to dig for your own clams, catch lobster and crab, and all while enjoying the passing wildlife. www.tranquilitycoveadventures.com

With Air Canada*, Canadian Affair** and Icelandair offering regular flights to the region this summer, Atlantic Canada is waiting to share these experiences and much more.

For more information on Atlantic Canada visit www.AtlanticCanadaHoliday.ca

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For media enquiries, images and more details on Atlantic Canada contact Tanya Hillman or Kylie Rathbone at KBC Public Relations and Marketing: Telephone: 01825 76 36 36 Email – tanya.hillman@kbc-pr.com

NOTES TO EDITORS:

*Air Canada’s daily non-stop service between London Heathrow and St. John’s operates from 27^th May until 26^th September this summer and flights start from £559pp. Air Canada’s daily return flights from Heathrow to Halifax this summer start from £545pp. All prices include tax. For further information visit www.aircanada.ca or for reservations call 0871 220 111.

**Canadian Affair offers return flights this summer from Gatwick to Halifax from £258pp. For bookings call 020 7616 9933 or visit www.canadianaffair.com. Prices include taxes.

New Brunswick  - Welcome to the Wonder  - take to the waves in the Bay of Fundy

It’s New Brunswick’s unique natural assets which makes the province so special.  The Bay of Fundy is outstandingly beautiful and has UNESCO Biosphere Designation to protect it.  With the highest tides in the world, every day 100 billion tonnes of seawater roll into the Bay. Joining the tens of thousands of shorebirds every summer are pods of whales including the endangered Right Whale.  In terms of holiday experiences nothing can top kayaking through the soaring Hopewell Rocks and getting up-close and personal with your first Humpback whale. www.tourismnewbrunswick.ca

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Selected as a finalist in the ‘New7Wonders of Natural World’ the Bay of Fundy is somewhere everyone should see at least once in a lifetime. Frontier-Canada offers a 7 night fly-drive holiday to New Brunswick, where you can experience the heart-stopping spectacle of a giant Humpback Whale, the giant pillars of the Hopewell Rocks as well as the impressive Fundy Bay tides. The trip starts from £1043 per person for 7 nights and flights are with Air Canada. For further details visit www.frontier-canada.co.uk or call 020 8776 8709.

Newfoundland & Labrador – Nurtured by Nature – Love in a Lighthouse

Undoubtedly one of the most visually spectacular destinations in the world, Newfoundland & Labrador is Canada’s youngest province and one of North America’s oldest cultures. You will share the stunning coastline and ocean with over 35 million seabirds, whales, dolphins and porpoises and ten-thousand-year-old icebergs as they drift South. During the long, warm summer days a visit to Gros Morne National Park offers a multitude of opportunities for outdoor adventure including sea kayaking, boat trips through the fjords, hiking, fossil hunting, whale watching and charming accommodation.  The areas picturesque coastal towns have a character all of their own and you’re guaranteed to meet some interesting characters along the way. www.newfoundlandlabrador.com

Challenge yourself and fall in love with Newfoundland and Labrador this summer. Windows On The Wild offers a 13 night package starting at £1295 per person. This includes 14 days car hire, 2 nights in St Johns, boat trip to see puffins from Witless Bay, 1 night at Cape St Mary’s, 4 nights in Trinity including 3 whale watching boat trips, 1 night in Lewisporte, 3 nights in Gros Morne National Park, 2 nights at Cape Bauld in the Quirpon Lighthouse Inn and an internal flight from L’Anse aux Meadows to St Johns. The price does not include international flights, fuel or the one way drop off fee for the car. The price is based on travel between the 15 May and 30 September 2010. To book call 0208 742 1556.

Nova Scotia – Canada’s Seacoast – Follow in Billy Connelly’s tyre prints and discover Cape Breton

With the shore no more than 30 minutes away at any point, the ocean has shaped Nova Scotia.  A land of stunning seascapes, rocky cliffs and warm sandy beaches, there is plenty to explore.  On land, drive one of the world’s most scenic drives, the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island. The sea and land combine to create the panoramic views for which the route is famous. Surrounded by all this beauty you are duty–bound to take to one of the many hiking trails. Wildlife, folk art, music and friendly communities populate Cape Breton making a holiday rich in memories and stories to re-tell. www.novascotia.com

Canadian Affair offers a 7 night ‘Taste of Nova Scotia’ fly-drive package from £853 per person.  It includes 7 nights accommodation (based on two people sharing on a room only basis), car hire, a personalised Canada Roadbook, return Economy Class flights from London Gatwick to Halifax.  Itinerary includes stays in Halifax, Digby, Wolfville and Baddeck, plus Sydney and Liscomb Mills in Cape Breton. For further information and reservations contact Canadian Affair on 020 7616 9933 or visit www.canadianaffair.com

Prince Edward Island – The Gentle Island – bountiful beach life

Escape to a gentler pace of life. If your idea of coastal heaven is endless beaches, luxury resorts, a wide choice of activities and the chance to really unwind then Prince Edward Island is your little bit of heaven on earth. Beachcombing, cycle touring, a round of golf at one of the islands 30 courses, a holistic spa treatment and sublime cuisine are all features of a holiday on this 5,656 square kilometre province. For the freshest lobster take a fishing trip to catch and cook your own king of crustaceans or meet the locals on a beach clambake. www.gentleisland.com

Return flights from Heathrow to Halifax from mid-June, including taxes, will be £840.40 with Air Canada. www.aircanada.ca and reservations 0871 220 1111. From Halifax you can drive and cross via ferry or the Confederation Bridge to Prince Edward Island. Charlottetown is Prince Edward Island’s capital city and is a great place to base yourself to get acquainted with the Island. The Great George is an historic boutique hotel close to shopping, theatre and the beautiful Charlottetown waterfront. Rooms start at £133 in June, based on double occupancy. www.thegreatgeorge.com

  For more information on Atlantic Canada visit www.AtlanticCanadaHoliday.ca

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 For media enquiries, images and more details on Atlantic Canada contact

Tanya Hillman or Kylie Whitfield at KBC Public Relations and Marketing:

Telephone: 01825 76 36 36 Email – tanya.hillman@kbc-pr.com

We’ve only been working with Atlantic Canada for six months but, already in that time, we’ve hosted two other events; a media reception at World Travel Market, and the Christmas TravMedia evening.  Both of these went really well, with a fantastic turnout, but that didn’t stop the butterflies circulating as we waited for our guests to turn up.  It’s always the same with events.  However many you organise in a year, the adrenaline never fails to make an appearance. 

Of course, we needn’t have worried.  The limosines all turned up as we planned and all the guests remembered their ID and made it through security!  By 7pm, they were all safely esconced in the domed, glass bar of The Gherkin, staring out at the lights of London with one of the best views in the Capital, and sipping a Blueberry Mimosa (a mix of blueberry juice and sparking wine from Nova Scotia), or a ‘Bay of Funtini’ (vodka, blue curacao, cranberry juice, with a slice of lemon to represent the sun over the Bay of Fundy).  Do you see what we did there?

Aside from the spectacular view, the reason you go to the 40/30 restaurant at The Gherkin is for the fabulous food.  Atlantic Canada has some of the best seafood in the world so, of course, that’s what we served;  delicious jumbo seared Canadian scallop in a tasty sauce with celeriac and samphire.  And for the main dish, well, lobster of course.  You can’t celebrate Atlantic Canada without lobster.

And after all this healthy fare, we thought it only right we ended with a mouthwatering blueberry muffin. 

It was a great evening.  There’s something so invigorating about being perched at the top of London looking out across the City.  The guests all seemed to enjoy themselves, and we had a lot of interest from the media for story ideas and trips out to the four provinces which make up the region.  It was lovely to see our friends from New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia and Price Edward Island again too. 

Thanks to everyone who came along.  Enjoy the pictures and we look forward to welcoming you to Atlantic Canada soon.

“Only February and the best press thrash of the year already…a hard act to follow!”–  Paul Wade and Kathy Arnold

“it was just wonderful, from start to finish!” – Jini Reddy

“Thank you all so much for a wonderful evening;  for superb hospitality, generosity, food, apple cocktails (!) and company.” – Mary Loudon

“Thanks so much for such an amazing evening up the Gherkin! My mind’s eye’s still savouring all the views and tastes!” – Adrian Gillan

“I had a wonderful evening and thoroughly enjoyed a taste of Atlantic Canada!” – Sarah Foden

“Now I really can’t wait to visit!”  – Gillian Thornton

“Great to learn more about this region of Canada, too – although it means the list of places I’d like to visit has grown even longer!” – Becky Ward

“The views were fantastic, the food was delicious and the company was great.” – Jacqueline Branch  

“A big THANK YOU!! for a truly splendid evening! It was such an amazing venue, and really great food” – Louise Roddon

Air Canada will be introducing a daily non-stop flight between London Heathrow and St. .John’s.  The new service will be the only daily non-stop flight between London and Newfoundland & Labrador and will operate from 27^th May 2010 until 26^th September 2010.  Flights to this stunning area, renowned for its wildlife, beautiful scenery, whale-watching, icebergs, national parks and friendly people will start from £618.50.  To book see www.aircanada.com.

 Leading Canadian direct-sell tour operator, GO Travel Direct, has launched a low-cost, transatlantic air charter service to Halifax, Nova Scotia and St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. The new flights will be operated by Monarch, the UK’s largest independent charter airline and sold in the UK by tour operator Jetaway 2 Canada.

 Operating during the peak summer season, from June to October 2010, UK travellers can make the short hop from London Gatwick to St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador and Halifax, Nova Scotia in just 4 hours and 45 minutes.  Return flights from Gatwick to St. John’s will start from just £350 and from Gatwick to Halifax from £350. Jetaway2Canada.com is ATOL bonded and a member of the Travel Trust Association. To book visit www.jetaway2Canada.com

 The new flights are an exciting development for the region and bring a wider choice of flights to holidaymakers looking to head to the Atlantic Canada region, Canada’s nearest provinces to the UK. Halifax, Nova Scotia is already serviced by a range of flights provided by Air Canada, Canadian Affair and Icelandair providing a convenient gateway to New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

 For more information on Atlantic Canada visit www.AtlanticCanadaHoliday.ca

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For media enquiries, images and more details on Atlantic Canada contact

Tanya Hillman or Kylie Whitfield at KBC Public Relations and Marketing:

Telephone: 01825 76 36 36 Email – tanya.hillman@kbc-pr.com