There are probably quite a few of you out there.
You’d love to experience the West Coast: the breathtaking beauty of the mountains, the Pacific Ocean, the urban delights of Vancouver.
So you start looking at flights…and that’s where everything stops.
Lack of competition (only Air Canada and WestJet make the cross-country journey), incredibly high government fees and taxes on air travel, and the fact that last-minute deals simply don’t happen are just a few reasons domestic flights in Canada are among the highest in the world.
So as much as we love Vancouver – and trust us, we really do – we decided to look abroad for an extended Thanksgiving weekend getaway.
While the cheapest flight West from Friday, October 10th to Wednesday, October 15th would set us back $780*, these equally alluring international destinations were a little more generous to our credit cards.
And for that, we’re thankful.
1. Los Angeles – $707, direct, Air Canada
Any excuse is good for a trip to LA – even if it’s simply because you’d be saving money to visit California instead of staying in your own backyard.
2. Montego Bay, Jamaica – $651, 1 stop in Philadelphia, US Airways
We’d be happy to swap the turkey for jerk chicken this year if it means we can feast in the tropics. An added bonus: Wi-Fi on board.
3. San Juan, Puerto Rico – $553, 1 stop in Miami, American Airlines
Just over half a grand will get you to the capital of Puerto Rico – what you choose to do with your time on the island after that is up to you. We also found a $376 option if killing 12 hours in the City of Brotherly Love on the way down sounds appealing.
4. Oslo, Norway – $759, 1 stop in Newark, United Airlines
You’ll find all the stunning natural beauty you need in Norway, and Oslo is one of three Scandinavian cities on our travel bucket list. Flights to Stockholm are also available for around $800.
5. Miami – $476, direct, American Airlines
Quite the steal. Plus, you’ll likely save even more money by not having to party again until New Year’s.
6. Cabo, Mexico – $608, 1 stop in Atlanta, Delta Airlines
We were going to recommend Cancun for $497 until we realized you’re probably not in university anymore. Just over a hundred dollars more will get you to the young professional playground that is Cabo. Free Wi-Fi on board. So basically, it’s a ‘working holiday’…
7. Dublin, Ireland – $776, 1 stop in Philadelphia, US Airways
Ok, so maybe it’s not the ideal time of year to visit Ireland, but there have to be at least a few of you out there who thrive on grey, rainy days. Dublin itself, on the other hand, is worth a visit anytime.
*All prices are accurate as of 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 30, 2014.
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