Chris Robinson Travel Show - Episodes

This week’s destination is close to home – our own Nation’s Capital – Ottawa. After the tough winter that we have all endured, our thoughts are finally turning to Spring and the promise of warmer weather to come. Spring is marked in Ottawa by the Canadian Tulip Festival – the city comes alive with colour as over 1 million tulip bulbs grace the parks and public spaces. We’ll also catch up on all the great exhibitions, festivals and events in Ottawa over the Spring and early Summer. There is no better place than Ottawa for a getaway, a weekend fling, a treat… or a much needed break. Hear about great value packages from Ottawa Tourism that make it very affordable to visit.

This week Chris is joined on the show by the “dream team” of Air Canada and “Incredible India”. Air Canada are introducing flights from Toronto to Delhi aboard their fabulous new Boeing Dreamliner aircraft. This will be the ONLY non-stop service from Canada to India, perfectly timed for easy connection within Canada and for onward connections in India. And if you are dreaming of visiting India – listen to hear about this truly unique, exotic and exciting country. In a world where everything seems to be becoming more and more the same India has a history that goes back even further than Europe and an extremely robust culture and cuisine all of its own.

This week Chris celebrates St Patrick’s Day on the Travel Show as we head to the soft green hills of Ireland. We’re hopping over the Atlantic Ocean to where the warm waters of the Gulf Stream caress the verdant green island of St Patrick. From breathtaking landscapes and rural idylls to buzzing urban hubs and amazing festivals – plus the incredible warmth of the people - it's all waiting to be discovered. And to help you discover Ireland you will also hear all about Royal Irish Tours who offer everything from escorted coach tours to cottage stays and will customize the components to create your perfect trip. And if you have ever wanted to stay in an Irish castle – listen to the show to find out how!

This week the Travel Show heads to Britain and Ireland – there are so many reasons that these destinations are extremely popular with Canadian travellers! There is history and culture to discover – what’s not to love about sleeping in a castle or exploring medieval buildings? The food, the people, the landscapes are all so inviting. CIE Tours is the largest single generator of inbound tourism to Ireland from the USA. And with 83 years of experience under their belts – well, you can imagine the depth of knowledge that they bring. When you book your escorted coach tour with CIE Tours, “optional extras” like medieval banquets and walking tours are included UPFRONT! So your Tour Director concentrates on your needs and on providing you with great local information – not on selling to you.

This week Chris takes you to Kentucky – it’s closer than you think. You’ll discover a rich, historical region with fascinating cities and a large helping of southern hospitality. And talking of helpings – not only is there a delicious culinary movement putting a new twist on traditional cuisines: this is still the home of mouth-watering fried chicken. And to go with that excellent food there is Kentucky wine, Craft beer and – of course – Bourbon! Air Canada has daily direct flights from Toronto into Cincinnati in Northern Kentucky, and there are other flights into both Louisville and Lexington. All this easy access makes Kentucky a great weekend get-away destination. And if you are planning on driving south this travel season, it is less than a 9-hour drive from southern Ontario to northern Kentucky – where the beautiful landscapes vary from rolling countryside with picturesque horse farms to mountains, rivers and forests which are a wonderful adventure playground.

This week Chris is in the company of Transat and BlueBay Hotels and Resorts - taking you on a trip to some fantastic all-inclusive resorts in the warm Caribbean. Chris’ expert guests will paint you a picture based on their first-hand knowledge and experience, so you will get the real inside track about a wide range of BlueBay resorts and the destinations they feature. Three, four, or FIVE star - the BlueBay Group has a hotel and resort for everyone, offered through Transat Holidays and Nolitours. Bellevue Hotels and Resorts are for families and couples seeking “affordable access” to the beach. BlueBay hotels and resorts offer a higher level of all-inclusive seaside pleasure. And Diamond Suites is the BlueBay symbol of distinction with the ultimate in luxury World-class five star resorts.

This week the Travel Show features IBEROSTAR Hotels and Resorts - and Chris will be taking you on a trip to some luxury all-inclusive resorts throughout Mexico and the Caribbean. In particular the show focuses on two lesser known destinations - Vallarta Nayarit on the Pacific Coast of Mexico and La Romana in the Dominican Republic. The 5 star IBEROSTAR Hacienda Dominicus, found in La Romana on the South Coast of the Dominican Republic, is perfectly positioned for eco adventures in the Eastern National Park and Saona Island . And the brand new IBEROSTAR Playa Mita in Vallarta Nayarit is right in the “real Mexico” - the coastal town of Punta de Mita, and the surf town of Sayulita are just minutes away.

This week the Travel Show explores Barcelo Hotels and Resorts, offered through Transat Holidays and Nolitours. Discover all-inclusive resorts in premium beach front locations! Hear about the Barcelo Maya Beach Resort in Mexico where guests “stay at one, and play at four” neighbouring Barcelo hotels. There have been recent extensive renovations: refurbished rooms, new and tantalizing restaurants, and the exciting Maya Mall … home to Pirates Island Water Park, a bowling alley, and plenty of shopping! The Barcelo Bavaro Beach Adults Only or Barcelo Bavaro Palace Deluxe in the Dominican Republic boast their own wedding coordinators for weddings or vow renewals. Air Transat flies to Barcelo resorts multiple times weekly! For the best in-flight experience, choose Transat “Club Class”! And did you know that you can upgrade to Barcelo Club Premium for rooms with the best locations, the exclusive Club Premium Lounge, plus more!

This week the Travel Show explores SeaWorld Orlando - where the aquatic world comes alive with awe-inspiring shows and up-close animal interactions like no place else! Celebrate fifty years of SeaWorld and immerse yourself in wonder! Go on amazing undersea adventures, and through breathtaking animal exhibits at Aquatica Orlando, offering everything from high-speed water slides to tranquil beaches. Discovery Cove is Orlando’s all-inclusive tropical “day resort”: your opportunity to learn while swimming with dolphins, snorkeling with rays, and hand-feeding exotic birds. And finally, take your family to a place where fun comes naturally. Busch Gardens Tampa for an unparalleled mix of animal encounters, captivating shows and thrilling rides!

Our destination this week is somewhere that really knows how to enjoy this most Canadian of seasons…. Winter. Ottawa celebrates the season of snow with the 37th edition of Winterlude. This year's Canadian themes are the Year of Sport in Canada, the 50th anniversary of the Canadian Flag and the 200th anniversary of the birth of Sir John A. Macdonald. And most of the events are free! Bundle up outdoors and skate on the Rideau Canal Skateway, shoot down snow slides, eat world class culinary treats or take a sauna at an outdoor Nordik spa. And when you have had your fill of hot chocolate and Beaver Tail pastries, come indoors and enjoy all the museum exhibitions, theatre productions, festivals and events that make Ottawa such an exciting city for a getaway at this time of year.

Bahia Principe Hotels and Resorts has partnered with Transat Holidays and Nolitours to create the vacation of your dreams! Listen to go beyond the brochures and find out all about these resorts. You will find fourteen hotels in six destinations across three exciting countries: The Dominican Republic, Jamaica and Mexico! Bahia Principe’s Royal Golden Club is exclusive to Transat Holidays – offering VIP amenities, spa discounts, and dedicated room locations closest to the beach. And Royal Golden Club status includes unlimited greens fees for golfers staying at the Grand Bahia Principe Coba in Mexico. Or take your vacation to the next level of comfort by staying at a Luxury Bahia Principe Don Pablo Collection Resort offering luxurious and exclusive rooms, butler service, a premium mini-bar, 24-hour room service, unlimited dinners in specialty restaurants, luxury sunbeds and more!

This week the Travel Show is living the good life in Madrid and Barcelona. No European country embraces every waking minute quite like Spain! Spain offers incredible art and culture and in Madrid, the works of Spanish masters like Picasso, Dali, and Goya hang with distinction in world-class galleries. Madrid is now a culinary capital of Europe, having emerged from a gastronomic revolution embracing the old and the new. In Barcelona, stroll the cobblestone lanes of the Gothic quarter discovering centuries-old cathedrals, and the Modernist architecture of Antoni Gaudi. And make your way to one of Barcelona’s Basque-style tapas bars or seafood taverns overlooking the Mediterranean. Enjoy endless tax-free shopping in both Spanish cities - and bring along an empty suitcase for the many designer fashions you’ll be taking home. And the nightlife in Madrid and Barcelona is legendary!

This week the Travel Show explores Martinique - the island paradise with a French flair. Martinique is actually an overseas region of France; which explains where an island in the Caribbean gets its cosmopolitan chic. Like France, Martinique is inspiration for chefs, artists and artisans … and heaven for foodies who love everything from pan-seared foie gras to authentic Creole. Transat Holidays non-stop service from Montreal to Martinique every week between December and April: the perfect time of year to explore this Flower of the Caribbean. In addition to flights, Transat Holidays can help arrange your accommodation in Martinique at any of seven resorts … and book your island tours.

This week the Travel Show covers The Dominican Republic and the Be Live Collection Resorts: exclusive five-star hotels at the very top of the Be Live range. The Dominican Republic (or the DR to its friends) is the second largest and most diverse of all the Caribbean Islands. Canadians flock there in the winter months to escape the snow – but the DR offers much more than just sun and sand. Known for its warm and hospitable people, the Dominican Republic has a rich menu of astounding nature, intriguing history and rich culture. In The Dominican Republic, Be Live Collection Resorts are making waves for their level of comfort and high standard of service; two things in common with Transat Holidays and Nolitours, who offer frequent direct flights to The Dominican Republic and packages that include these fabulous Be Live hotels!

This week the Travel Show focuses on the Aeroplan program. Over 4000 Canadians take off on a flight with Aeroplan every day – you could be one! If you don’t already accumulate Aeroplan Miles, listen to the Travel Show to hear what you’re missing. If you do earn Aeroplan Miles, then “listen up” for exciting reward ideas; plus tips on smarter ways to earn. Aeroplan gets you there faster than any other loyalty program in Canada!

This week the Travel Show explores Bermuda. Admired by generations of travelers for its pink sand beaches and turquoise waters, now Bermuda is being rediscovered for its blend of British charm and island soul. Golfers have always been drawn to the island's gorgeous scenery, agreeable climate and sophisticated array of before- and after-game activities – plus there are more golf courses per square mile than anywhere else on the planet. You’ll also find a rich cultural mix of classic elegance and island fun. The streets pulse with local flavor - the food is always fresh and creative. Savor the world’s best fish sandwich, or dine on lobster…Bermuda Rum Swizzle in hand.

This week the Travel Show visits Aruba - where the temperature is a glorious year round 28 degrees, tempered by cooling trade winds! Aruba enjoys the highest repeat visitor rate of any Caribbean destination at nearly 60%, as loyal visitors return year after year – and that speaks volumes about the quality of the destination. It boasts the friendliest smiles in the Caribbean – it is known as “One Happy Island”. Aruba is blessed with beautiful beaches, every kind of water sport you can imagine, gourmet restaurants, luxurious hotels and even clean drinking water – perfection in paradise!

This week we are setting sail with Norwegian Cruise Line to find out about their very distinctive style of cruise vacation. If you have never cruised before – then listen up - because we will be overturning some of the misconceptions about cruising. Forget all about suffering through stuffy set meals wearing an uncomfortable dinner jacket and think about stress free travelling. Cruising with Norwegian is all about visiting exciting ports of call with no packing and unpacking. And about pampering, entertainment and relaxation in equal measure as you journey between those ports. Norwegian’s Freestyle cruising is all about pleasing yourself and doing what you want to do, when you want to do it, in a very relaxed and fun environment.

This week the Travel Show visits Roatan - an idyllic island just off the north coast of Honduras - long known to divers as one of the top dive destinations in the Caribbean. Now it is being discovered by vacationers looking for somewhere a little different, a little off the beaten track, yet with all the convenience of direct flights and all inclusive resorts. The beaches on Roatan are classic curves of white sand adjacent to turquoise warm waters, with the second largest barrier reef in the world just offshore. Nolitours offers the flights, accommodation as well as tours and activities to ensure that you can create a truly authentic vacation experience. Hear how you can combine the beauty of the tropical oasis of the Island of Roatan with the splendor of the ancient Mayan ruins at Copan on the mainland.

This week the Travel Show heads off to one of the most wide ranging and multi-faceted destinations anywhere on the planet. There are few if any other vacation hot spots that have such a complete portfolio to offer the visitor as – Orlando. They say it would take 67 days to visit all of the entertainment offerings in Orlando. And there are 5000 restaurants, 7 world class theme parks, more than 12 shopping malls, 450 hotels and over 116,000 guest rooms! It is thanks to this vast range of choice - that caters to all ages – that Orlando is such a success for multi-generational trips. Listen to find out what is new in Orlando - of the powerhouse of innovation in the destination is the theme parks, with everything from the New Fantasyland at Disney to the expanded Harry Potter attractions at Universal Orlando. Plus discover how to get Deals Made for Canadians in Orlando where Canadians can save up to 50%.