Hot, Quick Weekend Getaways for Vancouverites

Winter in Vancouver can be beautiful, but you won’t be bronzing at Kits Beach this month. For a dose of Vitamin D, head to one of these quick and affordable destinations

Credit: Greater Phoenix CVB

Phoenix, Arizona

Canadian snowbirds have been heading to Arizona for decades and it’s no wonder why – Phoenix has 325 or more days of sunshine per year. Golf is outstanding in Phoenix and in nearby Scottsdale, and you will find a wide range of courses varying in price and difficulty (we suggest the Southern Dunes Golf Club for the best bang for your buck). For those who want to flex their shopping muscles in the sun, head to Scottsdale Fashion Square for high-end name brands, Kierland Commons for outdoor shops (similar to Vancouver’s Main Street) and the Outlets at Anthem.

February 23: Air, four nights hotel, daily breakfast and transfers.

Hospitality Suite Resort in Scottsdale (about 20 minutes from Phoenix)

$459 + $174

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Credit: Las Vegas News Bureau

Las Vegas, Nevada

There are always new adventures to be found in Las Vegas – everything from gigantic swimming pools to rooftop roller coasters – whether you’re a first-timer or a regular visitor. If you’re a gambler, the casinos are like no others in the world and shoppers will love all the designer stores and the Premium Outlet Malls. Big-name hotels along the strip boast headliner concerts and shows like Céline Dion, Britney Spears and various Cirque du Soleil productions.

February 24: Air (Bellingham) and three nights hotel

Caesars Palace

$399 + $81 tax

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Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara manages to be chic, laid-back and outdoorsy all at once. Foodies will adore discovering gems like the award-winning Lilly’s Taqueria (order the carne asada tacos), shoppers will be charmed by the eclectic artisan shops in the Funk Zone and culture fiends will have their hands full with art galleries, secret gardens and an impressive film history. Want to just get outside and explore? A Jeep wine tour in the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara, will warm you from the inside out.

March 2: Air and two nights hotel with breakfast daily.

Quality Inn Santa Barbara

$759 per person

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Los Angeles, California

The allure of Los Angeles is undeniable. The Hollywood Walk of Fame, beaches in Malibu and the Santa Monica Pier are just a few spots worth seeing. Sports fans will want to catch a Lakers game at Staples Center, where non-basketball lovers can have just as much fun spotting celebrities in the crowd. When it comes to shopping, it begins and ends with Rodeo Drive, and if you’re feeling especially touristy, Mickey and Minnie are always up for a visit at Disneyland in nearby Anaheim.

March 9: Air and five nights hotel

Fairfield Inn Anaheim Marriott (seven minutes from Disney California Adventure Park)

$569 + $205 tax

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