Sandman Hotel Group Blog

As winter blankets Calgary in a layer of snow, the city transforms into a vibrant playground of activities perfect for all ages. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a family looking for fun, or simply someone who wants to enjoy the season’s beauty, Calgary has something for everyone. Here’s a roundup of must-do winter activities to embrace the chilly season.

Winter in Toronto is a magical time filled with twinkling lights, festive activities, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there's no shortage of things to do during the colder months. Here’s your ultimate guide to enjoying all that Toronto has to offer this winter!

Winter in Vancouver is a magical experience filled with festive activities, stunning light displays, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the city offers something for everyone to enjoy the winter season. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Vancouver in winter, for an unforgettable getaway.

Are you ready to embark on a family-friendly golfing journey across Canada? Get ready to tee off and swing into family fun as we explore the best golf courses in Vancouver, Victoria, Calgary, Edmonton and Toronto. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, these courses offer something for everyone!

Canada, with its vast and diverse landscapes, offers a vast amount of bucket list-worthy experiences for adventurous travelers. From soaring mountain peaks to pristine coastlines, the Great White North is packed with opportunities for once-in-a-lifetime adventures. 

Canada's diverse landscapes and rich agricultural regions provide a thriving craft beverage scene. From the rolling vineyards of British Columbia to the bustling breweries of Quebec, Canada offers an array of options for enthusiasts of craft beer, wine, and spirits. Join us as we embark on a journey to explore some of Canada’s most renowned craft breweries, wineries, and distilleries. 

Canada offers a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From secluded islands to quaint villages, these off-the-beaten-path destinations promise unforgettable experiences and a glimpse into Canada’s lesser-known wonders. Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors or craving a peaceful retreat, these hidden gems are worth adding to your travel bucket list. 

Canada, renowned for its vast and diverse landscapes, offers a playground for outdoor enthusiasts seeking thrilling adventures. From coast to coast, Canada boasts a wide range of thrilling activities that cater to all levels of skill and adrenaline tolerance. Whether you're an avid thrill-seeker or someone looking to step out of your comfort zone, Canada has something for everyone.

Canada, a land of diverse cultures and rich heritage, boasts an array of art galleries, museums, and theaters that showcase the country's vibrant arts scene. From coast to coast, visitors can immerse themselves in exhibitions, discover fascinating artifacts, and experience world-class performances. 

British Columbia, Canada, is a land of natural wonders, boasting some of the most diverse and breathtaking landscapes on Earth. From towering mountain peaks to lush rainforests and stunning coastlines, BC's parks have something for everyone. In this blog, we'll explore some of the top parks in BC, highlighting their unique features. 

Halifax is the provincial capital of Novia Scotia. It owes its existence to its harbour, which made the city a vital port in Atlantic trade. It’s the aboriginal home of the Mi’kmaq First Nations and has a history rich in agriculture. A trip to the East Coast wouldn’t be complete without a visit to this Canadian gem. Here’s why Halifax, Nova Scotia needs to be on your travel bucket list:

Canada, renowned for its natural beauty and vibrant cities, offers an array of family-friendly attractions and activities that promise unforgettable experiences for children of all ages. From coast to coast, there's no shortage of opportunities for fun and adventure. Whether you're exploring the great outdoors or discovering cultural treasures, Canada has something for every family to enjoy together. 

Nestled along the eastern coast of Canada, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, may not be the first destination that comes to mind when you are booking a vacation. However, this charming town offers a distinct blend of maritime history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture that makes it a must-visit destination for any traveller. From scenic waterfronts to rich heritage sites, here are the reasons why you should visit Dartmouth.  

Escape the bustling cityscape of Toronto and visit the attractions that lie just beyond its borders. We invite you to explore the remarkable destinations surrounding Toronto, offering a lot of outdoor activities and experiences. From charming small towns to breathtaking natural wonders, here's a list of awesome things to do outside of Toronto. 

As we say goodbye to winter, the Okanagan Valley in spring is the perfect blend of orchards, vineyards, and lakeside beauty. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems of this picturesque region and discover why spring is the perfect time to visit the Okanagan region. 

Nestled on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, is a haven of historical charm, natural beauty, and cultural richness. From its iconic Inner Harbour to the breathtaking Butchart Gardens, this Canadian gem offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveller. Let's explore five must-do activities that will make your visit to Victoria truly unforgettable. 

As the clock strikes midnight, Vancouver comes alive with celebrations and has an atmosphere of joy and excitement. If you're looking for the perfect place to ring in the new year, Vancouver has plenty of options to choose from.  

Just because the cold weather is setting in doesn’t mean you have to hang up your hiking boots for the winter! The beauty of Vancouver is you have the choice of snow-free hikes or, if you want to get into the mountains and go snowshoeing, you have that option too! 

As the festive season approaches, Calgary transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a sense of holiday cheer. At the Sandman Hotel Group, we've curated a list of family-friendly activities that will make your holiday stay truly special. 

The holiday season is a time of wonder and joy, and there's no better way to get into the festive spirit than exploring the Christmas markets around Canada. In this blog post, we'll take you on a journey through some of the best Christmas markets in Canada, with each one offering its unique charm and holiday treats. 

Let’s talk about the best Sandman hotels with pools. After all, in the height of summer, there’s no better way to cool down! From the rooftop deck at Sandman Suites Vancouver – Davie Street to outdoor splash zones and atrium oases, we have a pool perfect for an afternoon of fun. 

When it comes to the best coffee in Vancouver, it’s honestly so hard to narrow it down. Vancouver has a vibrant coffee culture and there are plenty of roasters to check out. 

British Columbia is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes and natural scenery on Earth (it’s not called Beautiful BC for nothing)! One of the most prominent aspects of British Columbia, is the wide variety of stunning lakes scattered across the province. From hikes that lead to glacial lakes to summer oasis spots to catch the best rays, we’ve put together the 5 must visit lakes in BC.

One of the most scenic road trips you can drive in Canada is the Okanagan Valley road trip. Journey through valleys, along rivers and lakes, and over mountains to take in some spectacular views of the duly named beautiful British Columbia. With water and wineries all along your route, there’s no shortage of things to do in the summertime in the Okanagan Valley. Pack up the car this summer and experience the beauty of the outdoors in a week-long road trip through Canada’s Napa Valley. 

Montreal may be on your travel list because of the French flair, cobblestone streets and European charm, but you should add another reason–the food! Montreal’s food scene is one of the best in Canada, and we’ve put together all the must have places to grab a bite during your time in Quebec’s Metropolis. 

You’ll love mountain biking in Revelstoke because the area boasts over 200 kilometres (125 miles) of cross-country and downhill mountain bike trails, as well as a world-class bike park. Whether you’re seeking enduro or downhill, there’s something for every rider. 

If you need a destination for your summer getaway that has something for everyone in the family, then look no further than Revelstoke in British Columbia. Revelstoke warms up for summer, becoming an adventure playground with opportunities for outdoor activities around every corner. We’ve put together the itinerary for your family-friendly holiday! 

From coastal walks to forest trails, there's something for everyone in the south of Vancouver Island. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, this region has plenty of options to explore. In this article, we'll cover some of our favourite hikes in and around Victoria, BC.

Northern British Columbia is a wild and rugged landscape, home to mighty glaciers, ancient forests, and untamed rivers. Grizzly bears roam the land here while the phenomena of the Aurora dances the night away. From Gold Rush Trail to Haida Gwaii, here’s what to expect from a Northern BC road trip along Highway 16.

Fall in Canada is a beautiful time. As the balmy breezes and blue skies of summer give way to crisp air and shorter days, it’s a great time to discover new places and use up those well-earned vacation days before winter takes grip. You may be tempted to head to the coast of Vancouver Island to spot some whales, enjoy a vibrant city break in Calgary, or soak up some of that je ne sais quoi in Montréal. However you travel, here are 6 of our fave places to truly experience fall in Canada.

There’re lots of things to do in Lethbridge. Known for its more than 320 days of sunshine each year, chinook winds keep the city mild and inviting for all. You’ll find a lively arts scene in Lethbridge, and always a welcoming dining experience. Looking to explore further? Lethbridge provides easy access to the Canadian Rockies, sits a couple hours from Calgary, and is just a hop, skip, and a jump to Montana! Here we go with some top reasons to explore Lethbridge this year…

Camping with bison, partying under the aurora, heading to a mall the size of a small town– Edmonton has always done it a little differently than most and this vibrant upbeat urban centre in the Albertan prairies is the perfect destination for any family.

June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month. It's an opportunity to refocus a year-round commitment to respect and belonging for the LGBTQ+ community. As leaders in hospitality, we understand the impact that we have, which is why we strive to create environments that bring everyone together. To mark this year's Pride, we wanted to shine a light on a handful of the wonderful LGBTQ+ owned businesses that operate in some of the communities that we serve. We hope you enjoy.

This unparalleled Canadian oasis has something for everybody with its diverse community and abundant character, there’s always something to do. With the average summer temperature around 25 degrees Celsius, there’s never been a better time to kick back and relax at one of our four Calgary hotel locations.

Planning a trip to the Okanagan Valley? Welcome to BC’s summer playground! If sunny days and outdoor activities are what you’re looking for, then you’re heading to the right place! Golfing, hiking, bike rides, an abundance of water sports, and endless wineries – it really does have something for everyone.

Can you smell it? As the sweet scent of pollen and the heady smell of freshly cut grass begin to fill the air, we can’t help but have summer on our minds. Oh, the possibilities! From alpine hikes and wildflower meadows, to cooling lake floats and beer patios–Revelstoke, BC is the place to enjoy the warmer months. We thought we’d take a dive into some of our favourite things to do in Revelstoke in the summer. Hold on for #6–it’s a family favourite!

Whether you’re travelling solo or with family, friends, or colleagues, hotel facilities can really enhance your trip. We understand that most times, you want value-add amenities that don’t break the bank. This could be an awesome pool to keep the kids entertained, a fitness room to get your sweat on, or free Wi-Fi to stream your favourite boxset. Finding the right hotel to meet your needs needn’t be a chore. Read on to discover 6 Reasons To Choose Sandman Hotel Group For Your Next Trip!

We’re sharing 5 Top Reasons To Choose Sandman For Your Celebration. From baby showers and christenings to milestone birthdays and lavish weddings (and everything in between), here’s why Sandman Hotel Group is the perfect partner for your event.

You deserve to treat yourself, and what better way than to indulge in an upgraded hotel stay? Hotel suites were once reserved for mischievous rock stars and blue chip CEOs. However, these opulent accommodations are now more within reach than ever.

Have you ever seen the northern lights in Canada? An incredible aurora was recently witnessed as far south as Vancouver, which means your chances are good if conditions are right. For many, it’s a bucket list dream to see the northern lights in Canada (or anywhere for that matter!) Here are some of the places that increase your chances of witnessing these mystical dancing lights. Where to first?!

It’s never been easier to take your furry friends on vacation! Travelling with pets is now so commonplace that most accommodations will offer pet-friendly options. Some hotels will even provide a welcome amenity such as a bed, food bowl, and treat. However, before you pack up fido into a car crate there’s a few important things to consider. In this blog we’d love to share with you some of the tips we’ve learnt through travelling with pets, as well as some of the advice we wish we’d known sooner.

We’re all about making smart decisions for the future. Whether it’s about looking for ways to minimize our impact on the environment or mastering responsible business practices, we believe a significant commitment today will mean the world to future generations.

Whether you’re looking to realign your chakras, balance your qi, or just take advantage of your extended health benefits, there’s a bounty of wellness and relaxation in Toronto. We’d love to share with you some of the ways that we seek solace amid the bustle of Canada’s mightiest metropolis.

Did you know that Montréal is the second-largest French-speaking city in the world? The seamless meld of European and North American cultures is what we love most about Montréal, and you’re sure to get a friendly BonjourHi from the vibrant restaurants and stores that you discover. The same city that brought you a ‘bed-in’ for peace is also recognized as a UNESCO city of design and has the highest number of restaurants per capita in Canada. There’s so much to see and do in Montréal—we’re honestly struggling to know where to even begin! Here we go with some highlights…

Did you know that Calgary, Alberta is Canada’s sunniest city? It enjoys an average 333 sunshine days per year and it’s absolutely worth layering up and making the most of that Albertan vitamin D! If you’re looking for some top winter activities in Calgary, then you’ve come to the right place. Grab your toque and your mittens (and maybe a steaming hot coffee) and enjoy a visit to one of these awesome places:

It happens quickly, doesn’t it? One minute you’re sipping frosé with not a care in the world; the next you’re dusting off your Sorels and waking up for work in the dark. Winter is fast approaching and as we prepare our winter wardrobe, so too should we prepare for winter driving in Canada. We thought we’d provide some driving tips as well as a handy guide on how best to winterize your vehicle and be ready for inclement weather.

We’re thankful for the ability to give back. This year we partnered with BGC Canada (formerly Boys & Girls Clubs of Canada). They’ve been creating opportunities for millions of Canadian kids and teens for more than 120 years with the goal of helping youth develop the skills they need to succeed. Here's how we were able to help.

The onset of winter is not to everyone’s liking. While many dust off their goggles and flock to ski resorts, some seek solace in sunnier climes. While our province is world-famous for it’s legendary snow; there does exist a fair amount of snowbird destinations in BC. Whether you’re looking for a weekend at the lake or some fresh coastal air, here are the best places to escape the chill this winter.

Honestly, where do we start? There are just so many things to do in Revelstoke in winter! This charming resort receives an average of 10.5 metres of powder every year, making it the perfect destination for winter recreation. Revelstoke, BC is where small town vibes meet big mountain thrills. Prices are reasonable and adventures are limitless. There’s even Mount Revelstoke National Park! We’d love to share with you our top 8 things to do in Revelstoke in winter.

Some of North America’s best ski resorts are in British Columbia. When moist, warm coastal air from the Pacific collides with the cold, dry climate of BC’s mountains, the ideal conditions are created for waist-deep pow. So we thought we’d share some of our favourite ski resorts in British Columbia. We couldn’t just stop at a “Top 5”, so there’s 8! Which ones are on your bucketlist?

Fall isn’t all about cozy knitwear and everything pumpkin-spiced (although, we agree, it’s a huge part). As the weather begins to get cooler and the days a little shorter, we find ourselves seeking solace in fresh local produce, vibrant culture, and cozy cafés. We also like to experience the vivid change of seasons up close, and spend time in our beautiful outdoors. There’s no shortage of awesome fall activities in Vancouver. Here’s 10 of our faves to inspire you: