A Vancouver Bargain

Earlier today, when the daytime temperature peaked at -33 with the wind chill, I was thinking about tropical vacations and getting the hell out of here. It's not an unusual thought considering the harsh winters around here. But looking into the current travel situation I was disappointed with the high cost of travel this year.

I've been keeping my eye on the pulse and price of travel over the last couple years and (likely thanks to the recession) there were some bargains to be had. This year...not so much. It was not uncommon for YWG to NAS to be priced at $149 each way, or $99 to PHX or LAS. However, those prices are typically 60-80% higher this year. 

With the Canadian dollar at par with the US, it makes sense to travel to the states. We chose Maui this past Christmas and got a heck of a deal. While Hawaii has typically been one of the more expensive destinations, it was certainly affordable this time. 

Anyways, the point of this note tonight is to point out Air Canada's deal on Vancouver departures. Starting Feb 2nd and going until 1000 flights are discounted (typical sell out is 24 hours or less) by 15%.  That means you can travel to Las Vegas (LAS) for $110 each way. That's a deal. But the route I would jump on would be YVR to OGG.  (OGG being the airport in Maui, HI)  Each way is as low as $178. Roundtrip with all taxes and fees came to $465.26 for travel March 2-7th. WOW. That's a deal to go to Hawaii, especially when our dollar is so good. $700 & up is the typical price. Honolulu (HNR) was higher priced at $220 each way. 

To take a direct flight to LAX at this sale price is $93 each way or  $292.11 round-trip, all taxes in. 

Flight dates are up to April 15th, 2011. Some blackout dates apply. Some days will be higher than others, There are lots of routes to choose from. This sounds like a great deal to me.