Paris is the travel hot spot for Canadians in May: Skyscanner trending destination
According to the 2025 Skyscanner Travel Trends report, 71 per cent of travellers highlighted that they particularly enjoy taking in the beauty of local gardens on vacation. Perfectly fitting for that trend, Paris has some of the best gardens in the world, including Jardin du Luxembourg, Jardin des Tuileries, and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont.
Search for your next vacation on Skyscanner
With Spring fully in bloom, May is a particularly beautiful time to visit Paris. There are also a number of events throughout the month, including Taste of Paris, the Saint-Germain Jazz Festival, and the beginning of the French Open for tennis fans.
But aside for the season-specific highlights, Paris is largely considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world and one of the world's most visited destinations for its architecture, art and fashion.
"Whether it's standing under the arches of the Palais Royal, browsing independent boutiques in Le Marais, or catching an exhibit at the Musée d'Orsay, travellers are drawn to experiences that combine beauty, history, and a sense of refinement," Laura Lindsay, Skyscanner's travel trends and destinations expert highlighted.
Using Skyscanner search data, roundtrip flights from Toronto to Paris in May can currently be found for as low as $747.
Flights from Vancouver to Paris start at $767, or $726 from Montreal.
Check Skyscanner for up-to-date, live pricing for all flights.
Search for your next vacation on Skyscanner
Paris is one of the most beautiful cities to get your steps in, particularly at the the Jardin du Luxembourg.
"A slow walk through the garden is one of the best ways to enjoy a sunny afternoon in Paris. Just follow the paths, take your time, and enjoy whatever you come across," Lindsay advised. "If you're visiting with kids, the toy boat rentals at the pond are a fun activity."
"For adults, the shaded paths and flowerbeds are perfect for a peaceful break."
A Seine River cruise is a unique way to get in your Paris sightseeing needs.
"Seeing Paris from the river is a relaxing way to take in the landmarks," Lindsay stated. "You get a clear view of places like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame without the crowds."
"Evening cruises are especially beautiful in May. The daylight lasts longer, and the city looks golden as the sun starts to set."
Of course, food is a massive draw for Paris travellers, with Marché des Enfants Rouges being a particularly must-stop location.
"The food stalls serve everything from couscous to Japanese bento, and it is always buzzing," Lindsay recommended. "It is casual, budget-friendly and fun, perfect if you want a break from fancy restaurants."
"Grab something delicious and enjoy it on the go or take it to a nearby square if the weather is nice."
Close to the Opera Garnier, the Grands Magasins and Place Vendôme, Hotel Astra Opera is just coming off of a renovation completed in 2023. The property includes a wellness area with a pool, fitness room, sauna and a hammam.
Located on the west side of the 4th arrondissement, SO/ Paris has 162 rooms and suites with the most amazing views of the Seine, the Eiffel Tower and other landmarks. The property has impressively curated art featured throughout the hotel and the popular Maison Codage Spa.
When you're looking for luxury, Dorchester Collection hotels are some of our favourites. On top of that, Hôtel Plaza Athénée, famously featured on Sex and the City, is still one of the most beautiful and chicest stays in the city. With 1,900 red geraniums featured on the hotel's facade, it's a must-see in the city, even if you're not staying at the property. The hotel has the Dior Spa, in addition to its elegant guest rooms and five restaurants.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Nigel Maloney (@travelwithnige)
Skyscanner has a number of features to make sure you save as much as possible on your vacation.
Take advantage of the "Saved" feature. Start by browsing all the travel deals and when you see something you like, you can save it for later.
Step 1: Find your flights and hotel.
Step 2: Select the heart icon next to your top picks to save them for later. Make sure you're logged into your Skyscanner account.
Pro tip: Download the Skyscanner app to create separate Saved lists for all the different trips you're planning.
If flight costs are getting you down, there are a few things Canadian travellers can do to ensure they're getting the best deal possible for their next vacation, both on the Skyscanner platform specifically and when looking for flights more generally.
Beat the crowds: For flights that are filling up fast, you'll want to make sure you're looking at the monthly view on travel search sites like Skyscanner to see the best possible option available for flight dates.
Set up alerts: Prices are always changing, so if you're hoping to travel to a specific destination, or on specific dates, set up a price alert so you can be quick if a deal comes up. Skyscanner specifically has a price alerts system for any cost changes.
Consider "Everywhere": If you're hoping for a new adventure, or a little rest and relaxation, but you don't have a specific destination in mind, the "Everywhere" search on Skyscanner may be your new best friend to discover the most affordable vacation destination possible.
Flexible dates: There may be certain times where you need to travel for specific dates, but the best deals are really revealed when you open yourself up to some flexibility. Even changing your travel dates by a day, or a week, can result in significant savings.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Business Wire
26 minutes ago
- Business Wire
Starboard Luxury Debuts Dedicated Retail Spaces for Cartier, IWC Schaffhausen, and Piaget on The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's Newest Superyacht, Luminara
BUSINESS WIRE)--Starboard Luxury, the luxury division of Starboard Group, in collaboration with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, has debuted dedicated retail spaces for Cartier, IWC Schaffhausen, and Piaget aboard the fleet's newest yacht, Luminara. These luxury retail offerings represent first-at-sea experiences for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection and feature an array of exquisite jewelry, Swiss timepieces, and accessories expertly curated by Starboard Luxury. 'Starboard Luxury is honored to bring together four of the world's most renowned luxury brands—Cartier, IWC Schaffhausen, Piaget, and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection,' said Stacy Shaw, Senior Vice President, Luxury & Resorts, Starboard Group. 'This collaboration marks another expansion of our incredible partnership with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection as we continue to create unparalleled luxury shopping experiences at sea.' Aboard Luminara, guests can browse thoughtfully curated collections of Swiss timepieces from Cartier and IWC, including selected IWC models that have never before been offered at sea, as well as a distinguished selection of fine jewelry and Swiss watches from Piaget. Starboard Luxury has also created an array of bespoke experiences to highlight the respective brands' exceptional craftsmanship and timeless elegance. During each voyage, guests may learn about the history, heritage, and unique product offerings of each of the three brands, and enjoy personalized services such as private viewings, in-suite appointments, and private shopping sessions with expert brand ambassadors. 'Welcoming Cartier, IWC, and Piaget aboard Luminara reflects our ongoing commitment to creating exceptional, meaningful experiences at sea,' said Ernesto Fara, President, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. 'Through our continued collaboration with Starboard Luxury, we're able to bring guests closer to some of the world's most respected luxury maisons — names that share our dedication to quality, craftsmanship, and heritage.' Starboard Luxury has also assembled an exclusive assortment of luxury and artisanal products, ranging from often-overlooked essentials to celebratory indulgences and versatile items for the voyage and beyond. The Boutiques aboard Luminara feature collections recognized for their quality and design, thoughtfully suited to The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's relaxed yachting atmosphere and distinct clientele. Travelers will discover designer fine jewelry, resortwear, cashmere knits, personal and home accessories, vintage luxury handbags and accessories, and unexpected gifts, many inspired by the incredible destinations the yacht will visit across the Mediterranean, Asia-Pacific, and Alaska. Fine jewelry selections include diamond, sapphire, and 18K gold designs from Greek designer Ileana Makri, Italian-crafted gold statement pieces from French designer Lauren Rubinski, and a special collection from Sydney Evan that includes a first-at-sea debut of the brand's fine jewelry collection for men. Luminara also features limited-edition jewelry from 64Facets, unique pieces from Nakard crafted with high-quality gemstones and precious metals, and handcrafted selections from Moritz Glik, including items created with the designer's distinctive Kaleidoscope Shaker™ technique. Featured accessories include one-of-a-kind vintage Hermès Birkin and Kelly bags, originally created as custom orders for top collectors, and sustainable, cruelty-free Stella McCartney handbags made with innovative leather alternatives. Guests may also browse handmade, limited-edition embroidered clutches from Olympia Le-Tan and statement jewelry from Oscar de la Renta. The introduction of Luminara also presents an exclusive collection of co-branded Lululemon and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection apparel for men and women, never before offered at sea. Additional offerings featuring The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's elegant logo include luxury travel apparel from Anatomie and Peter Millar, as well as lovable plush lions from Jellycat. Guests can also discover an exquisite assortment of women's resortwear from brands known for their sophisticated global appeal, such as Italy's Max Mara and Forte Forte, alongside vibrant designs from Milan-based La DoubleJ. Luminara showcases a unique selection from Colombia-born luxury womenswear designer Johanna Ortiz, as well as men's vacation and swim apparel from Britain's Orlebar Brown. Luminara, the third superyacht in The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, debuted on July 3, 2025. The yacht will sail the Mediterranean on its inaugural voyages in 2025 before expanding to itineraries in the Asia-Pacific region later this year and Alaska in summer 2026. ABOUT STARBOARD LUXURY Starboard Luxury partners with the most admired and desired luxury vacation brands on land and at sea to introduce retail concepts, products, and experiences exclusively designed for sophisticated travelers on holiday. Highly curated assortments and bespoke experiences are tailored to each partner's brand DNA and guest profile to fully integrate shopping into the vacation in an authentic and natural way. Starboard Luxury travels to more than 1,000 ports of call with our cruise partners in the ocean, yacht, and expedition segments of luxury cruising, featuring exclusive and unique goods and experiences that are highly focused on local artisans and the destinations visited. Starboard Luxury proudly collaborates with Azamara Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Mitsui Ocean Cruises, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours & Silversea Cruises. A division of Starboard Group, Starboard Luxury is the only standalone division within vacation retail dedicated to the unique needs of the luxury segment.

Business Insider
an hour ago
- Business Insider
When I moved to Ecuador for love, it was meant to be temporary — but I'm still happily living here 7 years later
I fell in love and moved to Ecuador, and then stayed in Ecuador because I fell in love again — with my new home, that is. I first met my now-husband, who is from Quito, Ecuador, when I was in my final year of college and working part-time at a restaurant in Canada. We instantly connected. After six wonderful months together, he called me at 5 a.m. and shared some devastating news: His sister had suddenly died, and he was heading home later that day. Neither of us was sure if he'd come back. After the dust settled, I decided that I'd finish my degree, pack a bag, and move down to Quito for a year. After all, it would just be one year, right? Why not? In just my first two weeks there, we visited turquoise volcano lakes, history-rich city centers and intricately built churches, and even the Amazon rainforest. I had some of the best food of my life and met incredible people. Although there were challenges that came with living in a new-to-me country, I ended up falling head over heels for Ecuador, and that "one year" turned into seven. I'd never been somewhere so beautiful, with so much biodiversity In its mere 109,483 square miles, Ecuador contains four major regions: a Pacific coastline with postcard-perfect beaches, the Andes with towering volcanoes and magical páramos, the awe-inspiring Amazon rainforest, and (of course) the famous Galápagos Islands. Besides that, the transition zones in between, such as the Andean Chocó, are some of the most biodiverse places on our planet. Even now, every time I go to one of Ecuador's rainforests or mountain ranges, I feel like I'm in a completely new place. During my adventures, even in the local city parks, I always find something that I haven't seen before. The weather here is a bit unpredictable, but it definitely beats the chilly Canadian winter I truly love the "eternal spring" that we experience in the Andes. The warm days, cool nights, and epic thunderstorms make for my ideal climate. As much as I enjoyed the snowy winter activities and changing seasons in Canada, I prefer being able to cycle, hike, and camp year-round. Plus, I love that I no longer have to wait for the bus in the freezing cold. It can be a bit funny living here, where it often feels like I experience every season in a single day, but I learned quickly to always dress in layers and keep a raincoat handy. I love the food, culture, and community I've built If I ever do leave Ecuador, I will really miss the fresh, delicious, and diverse local cuisine, from fruits and cheeses to rich seafood and cooked green plantains. Most importantly, I would miss my support system here. I have been lucky enough to find a wonderful community of friends here who are always up for a good adventure, concert, night spent dancing, or a nice cold beer at a moment's notice. With a more laid-back culture, they may not always show up on time — there's definitely a relaxed local attitude around punctuality — but I can always count on them to be there. We don't know what the future holds, but for now, Quito is our home As our first year came to a close, I was actually the first one to say, "What if we stay just one more year?" Now, after many adventures, a mid-pandemic marriage, the adoption of a cat and two dogs, and six more years, we've grown roots here. Although we've talked about the possibility of heading back north, and it might still happen someday, we love living life in the heart of the Andes and calling Quito home. Love was what brought me to Ecuador, and love for this place has kept us here. I do miss Canada sometimes, but I wouldn't trade my experiences here for the world. I'm so glad I said, "Sure, why not?"


Boston Globe
an hour ago
- Boston Globe
Canadians are livid. Americans have no clue.
President Trump had taken to calling Canada the 51st state and just imposed 25 percent tariffs on Canadian exports (which he may now raise to Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up It felt like the whole country was watching the series and yearning for Canada to stick it to America. Canadians were sick of being bullied and this was their chance to hit back on their turf (which is to say, ice). So when Connor McDavid scored the winning goal in overtime that night, there was a collective release. Justin Trudeau even took to social media, to say 'You can't take our country — and you can't take our game.' Advertisement It may not be apparent from this side of the border, but Trump's bellicose 51st state talk is downright terrifying for Canadians, many of whom are unironically comparing themselves to Ukrainians before the Russian invasion. The economic uncertainty caused by the tariffs has already cost jobs and investment in Canada, with Deloitte anticipating a 'modest recession' this year. Canadians are in fight-or-flight mode. Brady Tkachuk of Team USA and Devon Toews of Team Canada in the NHL 4 Nations Face-Off championship game at TD Garden in February. Bruce Bennett/Getty The writer Stephen Marche, my one-time professional collaborator and compatriot (all Canadians really do know each other, you see), described it this way in the Over the last few months, I've been asked a question I never anticipated getting when we decided to move here: How far are you going to let it go before you decide it's no longer safe? My beloved aunt even warned me not to be 'the last to leave.' I recognize that this sounds insane to most Americans. And yet, I get the sense that they don't appreciate how thick the border has gotten in the Canadian psyche. The first year after we moved here our pullout sofa was constantly occupied by visiting friends and family. But the visits have come to a halt since January. After the tariffs were announced, my brother-in-law and sister-in-law canceled their Martha's Vineyard booking for this summer. My mother-in-law was even reluctant to cross the border to see her grandkids because she's heard too many stories about border agents checking cellphones and detaining travelers. (In the end, she came and ran into no problems at the border.) Advertisement In late June, Maine Governor Janet Mills spent a few days in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia begging Canadian tourists to come back to her state. On CBC News, she argued the travel boycott wasn't hurting Donald Trump. 'You're only hurting your friends,' she chided. It was a bit tone deaf to Canadian ears. How are we supposed to feel for New England B&B owners, when our economy — our country — is under existential threat? The fervor with which Canadians are rejecting America right now may be hurting innocent bystanders in relatively blue northern New England, but Canadians aren't really doing nuance right now. They just want someone — anyone, goddammit — in the United States to understand how angry they are. A Liquor Control Board of Ontario employee removes American wine from shelves in a Toronto shop in March. Laura Proctor/Associated Press Many Canadians follow every twist and turn of American politics and they know you can't name a single one of our premiers. It can be exhilarating to observe with a sense of smug superiority, like watching Gilead from the safety of your couch. But now, America is coming for Canada and it's not just a game on CNN. Canadians have had a longstanding subconscious fear about being on the other side of the world's longest undefended border, with so much fresh water, oil, and critical minerals on our side. Our military is a fraction of America's. Now the Arctic ice is melting and those resources are in the sights of so many nations. I consume Canadian news every day, but the anger still shocked me when I was in Ottawa a couple months ago. Every single grocery store aisle touted Canadian products. Every newscast seemed to include a story about finding a wine to replace your favorite California red. Advertisement Canadians are desperately reaching for some sense of control as they watch the post World War II order they've invested in fall to pieces. And as long as they've got the Loonie, they won't spend a single one supporting the American economy. My mother wouldn't even make her 'world-famous' Caesar salad when I was in town because the only romaine lettuce she could buy was imported from America. She tried to find some from Mexico or grown in a Canadian hothouse, but just couldn't. So she roasted carrots in maple syrup and Barefoot-Contessa-levels of butter from Canadian dairy farms. The revenge tasted sweet that night. Understand, something has broken that will not easily be fixed or simply go away in four years. Even if there is a trade deal over the summer, there's a fundamental distrust now. Canadians have turned away from America. Kristin Nelson can be reached at