Photo: @discovertofinobc on Instagram 

The idea of exploring close to home must be much more appealing with the Canadian dollar continuing to rise. There are various places within Canada, which many Canadians have yet to visit, which are both beautiful and offer the perfect opportunity to explore the Great White North. If you’re looking for a local travel destination, here are three scenic hotspots for a getaway on home soil. 

Tofino, British Columbia

Tofino is known to be more of a community, rather than a tourist destination. This feeling of authenticity is said to offer tourists the chance to become acquainted with the locals, as well as their rich culture and history, which are important to the First Nations peoples who have worked hard to maintain Tofino’s character. While there is nice sophistication to Tofino, it is not lavish. The down-to-earth town celebrates its natural surroundings, which include gorgeous beaches and beautiful landscapes.

Fogo Island, Newfoundland and Labrador

Fogo Island is the largest island on Newfoundland and Labrador’s vast coast. The town was first settle by the Irish back in the 18^th century, and is now a National Historic Site of Canada. Visitors can enjoy old and new, rustic and upscale luxury. The town and island is popular among acclaimed artists from all over the world, who arrive to work in studios built into the architecture of sea and stone. There are creative traditions of music, dance and storytelling which run throughout the island, which is also home to an annual festival hosted by World’s End Theatre Company.

St. Andrews By-The-Sea, New Brunswick

St. Andrews By-The-Sea is a town of only 1,800 people, yet it’s one of New Brunswick’s popular vacation locales. Whether you stay at the world-famous Algonquin Resort or a seaside cottage, St. Andrew’s offers quite a few adventures, all within a small town. Go whale-watching on the Bay of Fundy, or indulge your inner design lover in the historic downtown as you hunt for hidden treasures made by local artists.