A DEMAND for more independent travel has prompted Vacation Canada to introduce an expanded range of tailor-made options in its 1999 brochure.
Independent travellers have been given a wider choice of itineraries with the addition of seven tours that combine wilderness, sightseeing and city stays.
Accommodation is in tourist class hotels and motels with transport by scheduled coach and train services.
“The new programme reflects the growing trend towards completely independent holidays,” said product manager David Mason. “It gives travellers the freedom to build their own itinerary to personal specifications.”
Independent tours start from ú151 for the three-day Rockies Vista Express tour from Calgary to Vancouver, visiting Banff and Jasper.
Mason stressed, however, that the brochure, which has been expanded to 98 pages, will retain its selection of escorted tours.
“It is important that we do not lose sight of the fact that these tours tend to attract first-time visitors, or those who just prefer a completely pre-set package,” he said.
A new escorted tour for 1999 is the Northern Lands tour, a 17-day trip of the Northwest Territories. It includes Calgary, Peace River, the Mackenzie Highway, Wood Buffalo National Park and Fort Simpson. Prices start from ú1,938 including return flights.
More than 20 flydrives are available with a range of pre-arranged activity options, while a wider choice of accommodation has also been included, with luxury stays available in Banff and Lake Louise.