5 REASONS TO STAY IN ALBERTA THIS SUMMER

With the skyrocketing cost of gas, unbelievable food prices and shocking airfare, why not stay home this year and discover the beauty of our province?  These five experiences will help you reconnect to ALBERTA and remind you why this is a great place to live.

1. Plan a trip based on movies that have been filmed in Alberta.  Inspired by  Brokeback Mountain , The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, Legends of the Fall, and  Unforgiven, which  were all filmed in Alberta,  Travel Alberta has put together itineraries based on famous filming locations within our province.  Tour Calgary to Banff, Kananaskis Country and Cowboy Country, or Lethbridge to fort Macleod, Cowley and Milk River or Calgary to Drumheller, Brooks and Hanna to see what lured Hollywood to make their epic films in this province.  Visit www.travelalberta.com or telephone 1.800.252.3782 for more information.

2. Are the kids screaming for adventure?  Four new Heli-Hiking packages from Canadian Mountain Holidays (CMH) will satisfy your craving for adventure this summer.  For families, A Canadian Rockies Family Adventure begins at the Rocky Mountain Resort where guests can explore the town of Banff before heading off on a half-day rafting trip on the Kananaskis River.  Then enjoy three days of Heli-Hiking, explore glaciers, and learn about mountain geology and wildlife while staying at a nearby lodge.  Also available Heli-Hiking & Spa Relaxation Package; Heli-Hiking and Culinary Adventures; and High-Flying Heli-Adventure.   Visit www.canadianmountainholidays.com for more information.

3. Hit the Cowboy Trail.  Spanning 700 km, the route takes you to guest ranches, farms, horseback trails, and hotels.  Participating art galleries, saloons, restaurants and other attractions are marked with a Cowboy Trail logo.  This is a great way to explore the province looking for hidden gems.  Best of all you can arrange for a tour through local tour operators – a great way to feel like you are on vacation.  Visit www. thecowboytrail.com or telephone 1.866.627.3051 for more information.

4. During the summer, there is nothing like being outside soaking up the air and sunshine while snacking on fruits still warm from the sun.  The best way to have this experience? Visit a farm.  Alberta Farm Fresh has a map of Alberta indicating the best places to find fresh farm products and producers.  Visit upick farms, talk to local producers, sample tasty treats and come home laden with produce and ideas for your next meal.  Visit www.albertafarmfresh.com or telephone 1.800.661.2642 for more information

5. Alberta is blessed with five National Parks including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  In fact, Alberta became home to Canada’s first National Park, Banff National Park, in 1885. The sweeping vistas of verdant valleys, culminating in mountains are always awe-inspiring.  Take a picnic basket, go for a hike or just admire the scenery. Visit www.pc.gc.ca or telephone 1.888.773.8888 for more information.