Compare Whales & Bears of British Columbia by Exodus Travels vs Eastern US & Canada Discovery with New York City by Globus
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| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 9 days | 16 days |
| Price From | $ 6,285 | $ 5,507 |
| Price Per Day | $ 698 | $ 344 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Premium |
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| Countries Visited | ||
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | No |
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| Meals Included | Three breakfasts and four picnic lunches are included on this trip. For meals not included, you usually eat out in local restaurants recommended by the tour leader. To help you budget, meals cost on average: Hotel breakfasts: 15-20 Canadian dollars (US$11-US$15) Lunches: 20-25 dollars (US$15-US$19) Dinners: 30-50 dollars (US$23-US$38), this does not include alcoholic beverages Drinks cost on average: Wine: 15-20 dollars (US$11-15) per glass Beer: 8-12 dollars (US$6-US$9) per bottle A tip of approximately 17%-20% is added to group meals in Canadian restaurants. Applicable taxes will also be added to all listed menu prices. Vegetarians and vegans can be well catered for – please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests so our local team can be well prepared. | N/A |
| Description |
‘Beautiful British Columbia’ proclaim the number plates, for once without hyperbole. Sensational wildlife regularly presents itself amid a backdrop of rugged scenery. Here, whale and bear watching is the big draw but seals, elk and beavers ensure a truly authentic British Columbian wildlife encounter. Our adventures take us to Vancouver Island, where we explore beaches and walk trails at Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and we hope to see humpbacks, orcas, black bears and more.Discover the wildlife and rugged scenery of Western Canada |
Like your coffee with two creams and two sugars? That’s a “double-double” in neighboring Canada and don’t you forget it! Doubling the fun from Washington D.C. to Québec City, this unforgettable panorama tour of the Eastern U.S. and Canada explores the cultural and historical differences between two fascinating North American regions. From New York City to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, you’ll take a bite out of the Big Apple, taste the freedom of Philadelphia, and savor the monuments and museums of Washington, D.C. You’ll also enjoy the refreshing mist of breathtaking Niagara Falls before immersing yourself in the varied Canadian cityscapes of Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal, and Québec City. The final course? A journey through the marvelous mountains of Vermont and New Hampshire with guided sightseeing in Boston. An authentic Italian handmade cannoli in Beantown is your just dessert! Two extra days in the “City That Never Sleeps” makes this Eastern U.S. tour an absolute dream. Enjoy a narrated, skyline harbor cruise with close-up views of Manhattan’s iconic sights before floating down Fifth Avenue, through Central Park, under the marquees of Broadway, or wherever else your cosmopolitan compass takes you. |
Day 1 Start Vancouver
The adventure begins in Vancouver on Canada's west coast. If you have time, we recommend a stroll around this cosmopolitan city to get a feel for it. Treat yourself to moreish maple cookies in Stanley Park, a 990-acre (400ha) green wonderland where you can see authentic totem poles put up in the 1920s or sit in one of the cafes and enjoy a spot of people watching. A welcome briefing may be held this evening or tomorrow morning, in which we gather as a group and meet our tour leader. Accommodation: Holiday Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown (or similar)
Day 2 Morning ferry to Vancouver Island
In the morning, we head to the port for a ferry to Nanaimo on Vancouver Island, a 1hr 30min journey across the Strait of Georgia. On arrival in Nanaimo, we continue by road, stopping for a walk and picnic lunch at Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park. Rathtrevor is known for its majestic old-growth woodland, beautiful ocean sunsets and a wide, sandy beach with picnic areas nestled amongst the trees. We then continue our drive to Ucluelet, our base for the next three nights. Today's travel time is approximately six hours. Accommodation: Canadian Princess Lodge & Marina (or similar)
Day 3 Pacific Rim National Park Reserve; boat excursion to observe grey and humpback whales
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is nestled between the mountains of the Vancouver Island range and the Pacific coastline. We walk inside the park this morning to admire the rich natural heritage of the west coast of Canada. The reserve has almost 10mi (16km) of sand and a huge collection of driftwood, while the next stop is Japan! We usually take the Nuu-Chah-Nulth trail to the beach and visit during low tide to explore some of the intertidal pools and rocky islands. You may see lime-green anemones and purple, brown and orange starfish. In the afternoon, we board Zodiacs with a naturalist guide who leads a 2hr 30min to three hour whale-observation excursion (depending on the low-tide schedule, this activity may take place earlier in the day). Our goal is to see humpback and grey whales, but it is also common to come across orcas, seals and sea lions among the rocky headlands. Today’s driving time should not exceed two hours. Accommodation: Canadian Princess Lodge & Marina (or similar)
Day 4 Rainforest Figure Eight trail; boat excursion to observe black bears
Today our leader will take us on an easy hike on the Rainforest Figure Eight trail, an hour-long walk along wooden boardwalks through the majestic forest. This is a peaceful trail and we will be surrounded by a dense foliage of ferns, Western Red Cedar and Western Hemlock trees. Keep your eyes peeled for birdlife - our tour leaders have reported sightings of Steller's jays and Rufous hummingbirds! Late this afternoon, we board Zodiacs for a 2hr 30min expedition to observe black bears and bald eagles (depending on the low-tide schedule, this activity may take place earlier in the day). In the wilderness of Clayoquot Sound, black bears search for crabs and clams on the rocky beaches. We travel the fjord inlet by Zodiac, looking in sheltered bays and stopping to see any black bears we find from the comfort of our vessel. Accommodation: Canadian Princess Lodge & Marina (or similar)
Day 5 To Campbell River and Cathedral Grove Provincial Park
Depart Ucluelet and drive for four hours to Campbell River on the north shore of Vancouver Island. Campbell River is known as the salmon capital of the world for its hugely impressive salmon runs, where five species of Pacific salmon swim the river. It has been designated a Heritage River for its importance in British Columbia; following the fish are bears, seals, kingfishers and eagles. This afternoon, we stop at Cathedral Grove Provincial Park to see the last remains of the temperate rainforest that covered the island more than a 1,000 years ago. This is one of the most accessible areas of giant Douglas fir trees in the province and there are many trails enabling us to meander through Douglas fir, western hemlock, grand fir and western red cedar trees. Accommodation: Painter’s Lodge (or similar)
Day 6 Boat excursion to Orford River to observe grizzly bears
Board a covered boat for a full-day excursion to the Orford River area (on the mainland of British Columbia) to observe grizzly bears in their natural habitat. Conservative estimates suggest there are 10,000 grizzly (brown) bears in British Columbia, with 92 percent of the original habitat of grizzlies still occupied. The abundance of spawning salmon in the Orford River at this time of year brings grizzlies down to feast. A two-hour journey by boat with a spectacular backdrop of mountainous scenery brings us to the mouth of the Orford River. From here, we take a short bus journey inland, where there are five viewing platforms from which to spot the bears. We visit one or sometimes two of these platforms, where we hope to observe the bears catching and feeding on salmon, sometimes with cubs in tow. On the boat journey to and from the Orford River, we may also see black bears, orcas, humpback and grey whales, dolphins, porpoises and sea lions. Accommodation: Painter’s Lodge (or similar)
Day 7 Quadra Island for hiking or optional sea kayaking
Board a ferry for a 10-minute journey across the Discovery Passage to Quadra Island, where we spend the day exploring the island trails and beaches by foot. Our leader will determine the best trail based on the group's preference and ability, but options include the Shallaligan Pass Trail along Quadra Island's coastline, which offers panoramic ocean views, or the Heriot Ridge Trail that passes through the bush and out onto a ridge for coastal views galore. There is also an optional three-hour sea kayaking excursion from Quadra Island. Accompanied by kayak and marine life observation guides, there is never a dull moment as we paddle by kayak around Quadra Island – we could see soaring eagles, oystercatchers, herons, cormorants, gulls and, if lucky, seals, sea lions, dolphins and porpoises. The mountain views offer a stunning backdrop to this excursion, which is suitable for beginners. Accommodation: Painter’s Lodge (or similar)
Day 8 Transfer to Victoria; whale-watching in the Salish Sea
We drive for around four hours to Victoria, capital of British Columbia. Victoria is well-known for its colourful gardens, British architecture and arts scene. In the afternoon, we have one final wildlife-viewing opportunity as we embark on a whale-watching excursion from Victoria, where orcas, humpback whales and sea lions are often spotted in the waters of the Salish Sea. A certified marine naturalist will accompany us in the Zodiac boat, helping to spot wildlife and providing background information on the species we observe. Accommodation: Huntingdon Manor (or similar)
Day 9 Ferry to Vancouver; orientation tour and end Vancouver
It's an early start on our final day in British Columbia as we take the ferry (approximately 1.5 hours) across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver. Our leader will take us on a guided orientation tour of the city then there's free time to explore Vancouver at your leisure. Those on Land Only arrangements may choose stay longer in the vibrant city of Victoria. Please speak to your sales representative if you'd like to add post-tour nights in Victoria or Vancouver.
Day 1: ARRIVE IN NEW YORK CITY
Welcome to New York City! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink.
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Day 2: NEW YORK CITY–PHILADELPHIA–WASHINGTON DC
The Big Apple & Brotherly Love Orientation drive through New York City en route to Philadelphia for an orientation tour focusing on the important buildings of this historic city, the “Birthplace of the Nation.” During your free time, you may want to visit the Liberty Bell, the National Constitution Center, or enjoy lunch and shopping at the Bourse Food Hall. Continue south to Washington DC, the nation’s capital, for a free evening. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORIC SIGHTS The City of Brother Love, The Cradle of Liberty, or just plain Philly. All of these names apply equally to the city of Philadelphia where its proud history spans the American Revolution to a major force in modern culture, sports, music, and business. See the sights in the birthplace of the nation with an orientation tour through its historic buildings where a country of patriots was born. FREE TIME TIPS EXPLORE MORE in Philadelphia with a visit to the legendary Liberty Bell, bearing timeless message: "Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land unto all the Inhabitants Thereof" where it rang out from Independence Hall to summon lawmakers to work and the citizenry to gather for news. Benjamin Franklin noted while writing a letter, "Adieu, the bell rings, and I must go among the grave ones and talk ‘politicks.’" Go beyond the iconic crack to learn how this State House bell was transformed into an extraordinary symbol of civil rights. And while no one living today has ever heard the bell ring freely due to its cracked surface, it still resounds with a message of freedom and hope.
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Day 3: WASHINGTON DC
Monumental Memorials Sightseeing with a Local Guide to see the nation’s legendary capital landmarks. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure where you may wish to visit the museums of the Smithsonian Institution. Join us for an optional dinner tonight at one of Washington’s favorite restaurants, followed by an illumination tour of some of the city’s most beautiful monuments. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT LEGENDARY LIVES Your Local Guide shares the iconic and patriotic monuments to American sacrifice and freedom commemorated in moving memorials. Marvel at the stately and sometimes somber remembrances of heroes and visionaries who shaped the American legacy. See the Vietnam, Lincoln, and Korean War Veterans Memorials, and stop for photo opportunities at the White House and Capitol Hill.
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Day 4: WASHINGTON DC–LANCASTER, PENNSYLVANIA
Pennsylvania’s Past & Present Journey further through Pennsylvania to Lancaster, home to Amish and Mennonite communities whose religious faiths stress humility, family, community, and simple living. (Breakfast,Dinner)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURE & TRADITION Learn of the timeless traditions of Amish life in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Hear about the simplicity and surprising beauty of the “plain” life that excludes the use of modern conveniences, such as electricity and telephones.
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Day 5: LANCASTER–NIAGARA FALLS, ONTARIO
Onward to Canada! Travel north through the rolling Appalachian Mountains and enter New York State. Cross the border into Canada for magnificent Niagara Falls. Enjoy an evening at leisure. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT EPIC RIDE Drive north from Pennsylvania to experience a piece of America’s oldest mountain ranges in the Appalachian Mountains. This 2,200-mile-long mountain range spans 14 states and extends into Canada with rolling forests and natural beauty that touches all who visit. Here, the legendary Appalachian Trail is a mecca for the adventurous nature-lovers along the longest footpath in the U.S. Pass through this beautiful part of America on your way to cross the Canadian border to Niagara Falls.
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Day 6: NIAGARA FALLS–TORONTO
Taking the Plunge Board a Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise for a thrilling boat ride to view the thundering falls from river level. Later, drive around the “Golden Horseshoe” of Lake Ontario and through vineyards and rich farmlands to Toronto. Tonight is free. You may wish to join an optional outing to visit the top of the famous CN Tower for great views of Toronto’s harbor and skyline while enjoying dinner. (Breakfast)
NOTE:Operation of the Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise is subject to favorable weather and/or river conditions. Favorable conditions usually exist from May to October. When conditions are unfavorable, a visit to the Journey Behind the Falls will be substituted.TOUR HIGHLIGHT NATURAL WONDERS The famous natural wonder of Niagara Falls consists of three massive waterfalls – American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls – plummeting from the southern end of Niagara Gorge. Spanning the border between Canada’s Ontario and America’s New York State, the largest of the falls is Horseshoe Falls – also known as the Canadian Falls –which straddles the border of both countries. Take a thrilling sightseeing cruise on the waters below the thunderous cascades of Niagara Falls and feel the mist and magic of this stunning spectacle of nature.
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Day 7: TORONTO–OTTAWA
Oh, Canada! Take a sightseeing tour of Toronto with a Local Guide. View Toronto’s two city halls, the Ontario legislature buildings, the university, and local neighborhoods, including Chinatown. Then, drive east to Canada’s beautiful capital, Ottawa. Located on the banks of the Ottawa River, Ottawa offers a unique blend of culture, history, and outdoor beauty. Tonight is at leisure, why not enjoy one of Ottawa’s many special restaurants. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT CITY SIGHTS Explore the sights of the capital of Ontario with a guided sightseeing tour of Toronto’s landmarks amid its soaring skyscrapers (all dwarfed by the iconic and stratospheric CN Tower). You’ll see Toronto’s two city halls, the Ontario legislature buildings, the university, and local neighborhoods, including the open-air markets and shops of Chinatown.
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Day 8: OTTAWA
Tour with a Local Guide to see Ottawa in-depth. Remainder of the day is free. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURE & TRADITION Explore the city of Ottawa to see its famous landmarks, including Canadian Mint, residences of the Governor General and Prime Minister, the hexagonal National Arts Centre, Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and the stately residences.
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Day 9: OTTAWA–MONTRÉAL
Magical Montréal Travel to Montréal to enjoy a sightseeing tour with a Local Guide This evening is at leisure, perhaps stroll through the underground shopping area of Place Ville-Marie or visit historic Old Montréal. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURAL GEM Explore the cultural capital of Canada where the traditional Québécois style is celebrated along its cobblestone streets and grand buildings in European flair. Stroll the historic streets of Montréal to see Notre Dame Basilica, the Old Seminary of St. Sulpice, and the Old Port of Montréal.
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Day 10: MONTRÉAL–QUÉBEC CITY
French-Canadian Treasures Travel east to Québec City and spend the next two nights in this romantic city located on the banks of the mighty St. Lawrence River. Until the British victory of 1759, Old Québec was the center of New France, and today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This evening, why not enjoy regional French cuisine with dinner in Old Town Québec? (Breakfast)
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Day 11: QUÉBEC CITY
French Sights & Bites Join your Local Guide this morning for an included tour of Québec City, Canada’s only walled city, including the Place d’Armes, ancient Place Royale, and the Plains of Abraham. The rest of the afternoon is free for independent sightseeing. Tonight’s included dinner outing takes you to Montmorency Falls and over to [LF] Ile d’Orléans for a delightful dinner at a fine restaurant in a restored 17th-century flour mill. (Breakfast,Dinner)
LOCAL FAVORITE LOCAL TASTES Le Moulin de Saint-Laurent is filled with a rich history originating from the era of the French Régime in Québec as a flour mill which formerly served the villagers of Ile d’Orléans. Take in the charming ambience of this lovingly restored stone wood-beamed restaurant to experience the treasured traditions of French Québec.
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Day 12: QUÉBEC CITY–FRANCONIA NOTCH STATE PARK, NEW HAMPSHIRE–BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS
Treasures of New England Journey south to capture inspiring views of New England’s natural beauty through Vermont and New Hampshire. Next, pass New Hampshire’s state capitol dome at Concord and continue to Boston. This evening is at leisure. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT NATURAL WONDERS Drive through some of America’s most beautiful natural masterpieces in the Green Mountains of northern Vermont. Here, the grandeur of mountain scenery and forest greenery are dotted with deep-blue lakes and panoramas for the perfect photo opportunities. Continue through the rich beauty of New Hampshire to the majestic beauty of Franconia Notch State Park in the stunning scenery of the White Mountains.
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Day 13: BOSTON
The Freedom Trail This morning, a sightseeing tour focuses on the city’s most prominent landmarks of the Freedom Trail. See Boston Common, the Old State House, the Old North Church, and Faneuil Hall. The balance of the afternoon is at your leisure. Tonight, join your Tour Director for a farewell dinner where you’ll end the evening with a Boston favorite, an authentic handmade [LF] Italian cannoli. (Breakfast,Dinner)
LOCAL FAVORITELOCAL TASTES After a day of exploring the iconic sites along the Freedom Trail, take a seat in Boston’s legendary North End district for a farewell dinner in the American tradition. Dinner is finished with a traditional authentic handmade Italian cannoli, a Sicilian pastry filled with a sweet creamy filling and usually topped with chopped pistachios, candied fruit or chocolate chips. Yum!
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Day 14: BOSTON–NEW YORK CITY
The Big Apple This morning, travel to New York City and enjoy a free evening to explore the vibrant city. Your Globus Local Host will be available to provide suggestions on how to spend your free time. (Breakfast)
FREE TIME TIPSEXPLORE MORE with a free evening in New York City. Discover the eateries and entertainment to be found throughout Manhattan melting pot of cultures and cuisine in the “city that never sleeps.” Your GlobusGO mobile app also has the maps, eateries, and things to enjoy in the Big Apple.
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Day 15: NEW YORK CITY
New York State of Mind Your stay in New York includes a scenic narrated Skyline harbor sightseeing cruise. During your free time, visit Top of the Rock for sweeping views of Manhattan or enjoy a Broadway show. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT EPIC RIDE Board your boat on the popular Skyline Cruise to see the city’s famous landmarks from the harbor that welcomed immigrants and innovators past its Statue of Liberty, iconic bridges, and exciting skyline. Hear narrated commentary with fascinating and inspiring stories about NYC!
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Day 16: NEW YORK CITY
Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)
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