Europe is old…news. For history and culture, try East Coast Canada!

For travellers looking to soak up some knowledge, Hotels.com proves you don't have to go too far

TORONTO, Aug. 30, 2012 /CNW/ - Traditionally, when looking to experience some culture and history, Canadians exchanged their dollars for euros and hopped on a plane. While that's unlikely to change anytime soon, the experts at Hotels.com® have some great local options for Canadians yearning for that blast to the past without spending big bucks to leave the country.

Nova Scotia

1. Halifax Citadel National Historic Site - One of the most visited historic sites in Canada. The site was built between 1828 - 1856 and was a key naval station in the British Empire.
   
   
2. Alexander Keith's Brewery - Indian Pale Ale? Premium White? Red Amber Ale? Regardless of your taste, a visit to the oldest brewery in Canada will quench your thirst.
   
   
3. Halifax Public Gardens - Looking for a place to pop the big question? How does a 16-acre Victorian garden oasis sound? The gardens are filled with ornate fountains, bandstands, statues, urns and an iron entrance. It's a homerun for those with a green thumb, but also perfect for setting the mood during a special moment.

Recommended hotel options in this area include: Prince George Hotel and The Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites which overlooks Halifax Public Gardens.

Newfoundland and Labrador

1. Cape Spear Lighthouse - This World War II highlight is a man's dream come true. Visit the most easterly point of North America in a journey back in time to see the oldest surviving lighthouse originally constructed in 1836.
   
   
2. Castle Hill National Historic Site - For an explorer, this site as the ancient French capital of Newfoundland, has it all. Check out the remains of 17^th and 18^th century French and British fortifications such as Fort Royal, built atop Castle Hill, built to protect the French colony from attacks by British battleships.
   
   
3. Red Bay National Historic Site - In the 1500s this was a busy whaling town. Today, visitors can see the rich history in the interpretation centre or on Saddle Island which houses the remains of the first large-scale whale oil production in the world.

Recommended hotel options in this area include: The Murray Premises Hotel and the Delta St John's Hotel & Conference Centre in St John's.

PEI

1. Cavendish - Does a little book called Anne of Green Gables ring a bell? If so, you're probably all too familiar with this destination. Visit the Anne of Green Gables museum and embrace the people, places and landscapes that inspired this famous tale.
   
   
2. Charlottetown - Walk back in time and discover historical sites that led to the birthplace of the confederation in 1864. This city was also on the 'must-see' list for royal newlyweds, Will and Kate. If they loved it, it's a safe bet you will too!

Recommended hotel options in this area include: Delta Prince Edward and The Great George.

So forget Europe, at least for a bit, and check out what East Coast Canada has to offer. Not only will you get your dose of history, but you'll find friendly people and fresh seafood - what more could you want? Thank us later.

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About Hotels.com^®

Hotels.com also known in Canada as Hotels.ca) is a leading online accommodation booking brand. Through its global network of websites, Hotels.com, LP connects travellers with almost 155,000 properties around the world, ranging from international chains and all-inclusive resorts to local favourites and bed & breakfasts, together with all the information needed to book the perfect stay. Hotels.com, LP benefits from one of the largest hotel contracting teams in the industry, obtaining the best rates for its customers, and offers frequent sales, special deals and promotions. There are more than 6.5 million Guest Reviews on the websites from users who have actually stayed in the hotels to ensure customers can make an informed choice when booking. Through Hotels.com, LP's industry-leading loyalty program Welcome Rewards®, customers can earn a free night for every 10 nights stayed at more than 65,000 hotels. Under its Price Match Guarantee, if a customer can find the same deal for less on a prepaid hotel, Hotels.com, LP will refund the difference. Travellers can book online or by contacting one of the multilingual call centers. Special apps for mobile phones and tablets can also be downloaded at www.hotels.com/deals/mobile_app/ enabling customers to book on the go with access to 20,000 last minute deals. Hotels.com publishes an award-winning twice-yearly review of international hotel room price trends called the Hotels.com Hotel Price Index™, which is now produced in 31 individual country editions, with North American data available at www.hotel-price-index.com. Follow Hotels.com on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/hotelsdotcomca, on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/hotelsdotcomca and on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/user/hotelsdotcom. Hotels.com is part of Expedia, Inc., the largest online travel company in the world with an extensive portfolio that includes some of the world's best-known brands.

Hotels.com and the Hotels.com logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Hotels.com, LP. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners. © 2012 Hotels.com, LP. All rights reserved.

Image with caption: "Not only does the East Coast have loads of charm, but its rich background is bound to satisfy any history-loving traveller (CNW Group/Hotels.com)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20120830_C9852_PHOTO_EN_17362.jpg

SOURCE: Hotels.com

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