Aussie flight searches spikes for this country

Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Toronto skyline taken from the Toronto Islands.
By laurencroft


It’s the land of snow-capped mountains, maple syrup and ice hockey – and it’s winning Aussies hearts.

If you hadn’t guessed, we’re talking about Canada. But really, you should’ve guessed: because it’s one of the hottest, most popular destinations for Aussies.

Why? Have you ever had poutine? Or authentic Canadian maple syrup? That should answer your question.

Since Justin Trudeau was made Prime Minister in November 2015, the number of Aussies searching for flights to the land of the seven month snow season has almost doubled, according to new data from Cheapflights.com.au.

And two years later, theres a whole lotta’ extra reasons to visit. The country is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year and is also hosting the Invictus Games in late September- an international multi-sport event for injured, wounded and sick servicemen and women to take part in.

Nathan Graham, Regional Sales Manager at Cheapflights ANZ, said that while there are some great deals to be had to Canada, travellers need to be savvy with their arrangements ahead of the Invictus Games – which are set to be held in Toronto.

“The latest data confirms findings from our Cheapflights Compass, which was released in April and highlighted Vancouver as a favourite long-haul destination for Aussie travellers.

“The data also shows however, that Toronto is rising up the ranks, potentially driven by interest in the Invictus Games,” he said.

 “Vancouver is the cheapest entry point however, with an average return airfare of $1,200, although Toronto isn’t far behind at $1,300.

“Flying in to these airports can save you hundreds when compared to the most expensive hub – Ottawa ($1,500 on average),” he added.

So with Toronto quickly becoming one of the most visited cities in Canada recently, what else does it have to offer? Well luckily, Cheapflights.com.au have put together eight quick tips for exploring the city:

  1. Arrive earlier to catch the Toronto International Film Festival – Highly regarded around the world for showing some of the most thought-provoking films and documentaries, this year, the film festival will be held in the weeks leading up to the 2017 Invictus Games (7-17 September).
  2. Live life on the Edge – If you’re an adrenalin junkie or just looking for an awesome selfie opportunity, the EdgeWalk is for you. It’s the highest hands-free walk around the circumference of the iconic CN Tower. But at 356m tall, it’s not one for the faint-hearted.
  3. Take an art hit at the Art Gallery of Ontario – Open from 10am to 4pm daily, this impressive venue houses over 30,000 artworks spanning over human history, from the first century to now. Key exhibitions also feature regularly, including Guillermo del Toro’s At Home With Monsters exhibition which is touring from 30 September.
  4. Feed your braincells at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) – A cultural institution since its  construction in 1914, the Royal Ontario Museum has five floors of extraordinary galleries and exhibitions to explore. While you’re in town, make sure you catch the Dawn of Life Preview.
  5. Take a Hike through Crothers Woods – Autumn, with its pleasant temperatures and colourful leaves, is the perfect time to explore Toronto’s myriad of hiking trails. One of the most enchanting is Crothers Woods, a Carolinian forest.
  6. Enjoy an Island getaway – Catch the ferry from Queen’s Quay Terminal to the Toronto Islands for a taste of adventure – from sailing, swimming and rowing to the Centreville Amusement Park. As an added bonus, you’ll get a different perspective of the unique Toronto skyline.
  7. Fill up at the Food Truck Frenzy – Food Truck Frenzy is a celebration of Toronto’s vibrant, diverse and delicious street food. Held at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE), make it a priority to try beavertails, bacon milkshakes and over-sized burgers!
  8. Let Toronto entertain you – With world-class museums, galleries, and performing art centres, the Toronto Entertainment District is always a hive of activity and home to all major theatre productions, musicals and concerts.

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