Friday, March 1, 2019

Easy Winter Getaways from YLW

Dreaming of a winter escape?  Like many Canadians in February and March, you might be.  Although our beautiful country, and the Okanagan in particular, offer a vast array of amazing outdoor activities this time of year, a little hit of warmer weather is always welcome.  So, where to go?  With ten different airlines and over seventy flights leaving the Kelowna International Airport (YLW) daily, there are plenty of opportunities to get yourself some extra vitamin D this winter.

Phoenix, USA

Serviced by WestJet.  It's no secret that Canadian Snowbirds love Arizona.  Fly into Phoenix, the state's capital city, to enjoy plenty of warm weather and year-round sunshine.  From there, you can explore other popular cities such as Sedona, Tuscon, Yuma, and Mesa.  The Grand Canyon, naturally, is also a must-see, as well as Saguaro National Park.

Saguaro and Four Peaks near Phoenix, Arizona
Saguaro and Four Peaks near Phoenix, Arizona.

Cancún, Mexico

Serviced by WestJet, Air Transat, and Sunwing Airlines.  Cancún has long been a popular travel destination for Canadians.  Located along the coast of the Caribbean Sea in the Yucatán Peninsula, Cancún's soft sand and blue skies will wow you.  Famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, Cancún is also the gateway to the Mayan Riviera, which includes other popular tourist destinations such as Playa del Carmen and the island of Cozumel, as well as the ancient Mayan ruins at Chichén Itzá, Coba, and Tulum.

Mayan Ruins at Tulum near Cancún, Quintana Roo.

Los Cabos, Mexico

Serviced by WestJet and Sunwing Airlines.  When you think of Los Cabos, you usually think of Cabo San Lucas, an energetic city associated with family fun and spring break mania.  The municipality of Los Cabos, however, also encompasses the neighbouring city of San José del Cabo, which has more of a relaxed, artistic vibe.  Fortunately, the two cities are connected by a quick drive down a beautiful sea-side highway, which means it's easy to get the best of both worlds.  Be sure to check out Land's End and 'El Arco' while you're visiting.

El Arco at Land's End in Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Serviced by WestJet and Air Transat.  Located along the Pacific coast, old world charm melds with modern convenience in this popular sea-side tourist destination.  Take a stroll along the Malecón to see the beautiful contemporary sculptures Puerto Vallarta is famous for, or cruise northward to shop at the bustling weekly markets in Bucerías and La Cruz.  A trip to the surf town of Sayulita offers ample shopping and people watching if you've got the extra time.

Los Arcos in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco.

Varadero, Cuba

Serviced by Sunwing Airlines.  Located on the northern coast of the Republic of Cuba, Varadero is a cheerful resort community with over 20km of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.  With stunning beaches of soft white sand and sparkling turquoise water, you might never want to leave your lounger or snorkel.  If you do, however, you will likely be delighted by the warmth of the local people and the history of the area.

A vintage American car in Varadero, Matanzas.


No matter where you go this winter, whether it's skiing in the Canadian backcountry or jetting off to one of the aforementioned hot-spots, getting there is a breeze when you live at Cadence at The Lakes Adult Community.  With only a short drive to the Kelowna International Airport (just 10-15 minutes away) and then a quick flight to your destination of choice, Cadence and YLW make it easy for you to get up and go.

PS:  We hope you stay safe and have fun this travel seasons - don't forget to check the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories website for important updates while planning your trip!

SOURCE: https://ylw.kelowna.ca/passengers/destinations-airlines