Exploring Western Canada with Nikki Parkinson
Touring Canada in style
Travel enthusiast and the stylist behind @stylingyou, Nikki Parkinson, recently joined Travelmarvel on an unforgettable journey through the Canadian Rockies. From the turquoise waters of Lake Louise and the iconic Rocky Mountaineer to glacier walks and breathtaking alpine scenery, Nikki experienced the very best of Western Canada. We caught up with her after the tour to hear about her favorite moments, the surprises along the way, and why letting someone else take care of the details made the experience even more memorable. Plus, don't miss Nikki's practical packing guide, filled with smart tips on layering and what to pack for exploring the Rockies in comfort and style.
How did Travelmarvel make travelling Canada easy?Â
As someone who is an A-type who’s always doing all the organising and planning, it was so refreshing to hand it over to our tour guide Meghan. Not only was her knowledge of each destination so deep, her communication was next level. We were transported each step of the way with ease, handed our hotel room keys before stepping off the coach and our luggage magically made its way to our hotel room without us lifting a finger. All we had to do was take it all in.
What was your favourite destination on tour?Â
This is a tough one but how could I not say the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. We arrived in the afternoon and literally gasped as we rounded the corner, clocking both the iconic lake and hotel in our view. I immediately took myself off for a walk around the hotel and the lake before changing for dinner and finding a balcony spot for a pre-dinner cocktail at the famous Lakeview Lounge. The next morning, I headed 1km uphill for the most amazing views back over the lake to the hotel. It felt like I was in a fairytale!
Travelmarvel is designed to give guests freedom of choice with what they do each day; can you tell us about a choice you made? Â
I love this about Travelmarvel. On our second and full day in Banff, I took myself off for a wander through the picturesque town to walk along a treed path that runs alongside the Bow River.
That afternoon, I was back at the Bow River for a float, one of the Enhance Your Journey options available with Travelmarvel in Banff. It was the most peaceful way to experience the remarkable landscape that rises up on one side of the river, the Banff Springs Golf Course on the other.
The Rocky Mountaineer is a famous experience when visiting the Rockies. Tell us about your experience onboard.
The two days spent on the Rocky Mountaineer is the stuff of bucket lists that you’ll want to not only tick off but scheme and plan to do again. This experience is forever imprinted on my brain. I loved the slower, relaxed pace of travelling. I loved the locally inspired cuisine and drinks served by the most entertaining hosts. But what I loved most was getting such a different point of view of Western Canada’s diverse landscape from the comfort of my panoramic window seat.
What was your favourite experience on tour? Â
Oh this is tricky. There’s everything I’ve already mentioned but let’s add in walking on the Athabasca Glacier and a float plane flight over Vancouver Harbour on the most glorious of summer days. Two very different experiences but again highlighting how diverse this part of Canada is.
Did you spot any iconic Canadian wildlife? Â
Two things you can’t control when travelling in Western Canada: the weather and the wildlife. We were so so lucky with the weather but a grizzly or black bear sighting eluded us. I did, however, spot a soaring bald eagle, Elk, Bighorn sheep, chipmunks and Columbian ground squirrels.
A surprise on tour
The biggest surprise for me on tour was how much we got to see in short time, yet it never felt rushed. The standout hotel was Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise but I was also blown away by the Marriott Pinnacle Downton Vancouver, for its location near the harbour but also its room size.
What advice would you give someone considering a Travelmarvel Canada tour? Â
No matter how much you think you are prepared for the beauty of Western Canada, you will still be blown away. It will not seem real. Come with an open heart and mind and leave with memories and experiences you’ll be talking about for years.
Nikki's Canada Packing List
When it comes to packing, Nikki Parkinson (@stylingyou) believes in considered packing, not overpacking. For Canada's Rocky Mountains, versatile layers are the key to staying comfortable through changing conditions.
What to pack:
Merino or cashmere knitwear, long-sleeve tops, T-shirts and button-up shirts for layering
Comfortable trousers, jeans and one versatile dress
A lightweight blazer, denim jacket, warm wool coat and waterproof rain jacket
Walking sneakers, casual shoes, smart dinner shoes and ankle boots
A packable hat, scarf, jewellery, crossbody bag and small evening bag
A swimsuit, activewear, loungewear, sunglasses and a reusable water bottle
Nikki's top tip: Stick to a coordinated colour palette and choose pieces that mix and match easily. Layering lets you create plenty of outfits without overpacking, leaving room in your suitcase for souvenirs.