A familiar favourite and a “best kept secret” are among new WestJet destinations from Western Canada this winter as the carrier introduces flights to Las Vegas from Victoria, BC, and Loreto, Mexico, from Calgary – the former reintroducing WestJet’s first transborder connection from Vancouver Island since 2017.
Beginning Feb. 1, 2024, WestJet will operate non-stop service between Victoria and Las Vegas, twice weekly, departing Thursdays and Sundays, with WestJet Executive VP and COO John Weatherill stating, “Victoria is an important part of our Western Canada growth plan.”
Victoria Airport Authority President and CEO Elizabeth M. Brown adds, “This will provide residents of Greater Victoria and Vancouver Island convenient non-stop service to this popular destination. It also demonstrates YYJ’s continued efforts to recover post-pandemic and reflects a positive sign of confidence in the Victoria marker.”
Loreto
Meanwhile, West Coast Canadians will also have an easier time to get to Loreto thanks to weekly nonstop seasonal service from Calgary to Baja Sur Loreto starting Nov. 3.
Through April 26, the nonstop flight will operate once a week and is scheduled to depart YYC at 10:25 a.m., arriving in Loreto by 1:25 p.m. (local time). The returning flight will depart Loreto at 2:30 p.m. Flight times are timed for same day connecting flights from across Canada.
“We are truly excited to work with WestJet in getting more West Coast Canadians to visit Loreto,” says Jesus Ordoñez, general director of Visit Baja Sur. “We want Canadians to learn about this incredible destination, with its culture, traditions and unique experiences.”
Situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of California, the state of Baja California Sur covers the southern half of the Baja Peninsula. As the state’s original capital, Loreto is recognized as the first settlement in Baja California Sur, and a is a destination Ordoñez calls one of Mexico’s “best kept secrets.”
With the tagline “300 Years Old and Still Undiscovered”, Loreto is located on one of Mexico’s most important reserves, the Loreto National Marine Park, home to over 800 marine life species. The city is well-known for being one of the best places in the world for whale watching.
Around the mountains of Loreto, visitors can learn about the prehistoric tribes who called the area home thousands of years ago. The Sierra de la Giganta is home to ancient cave paintings and rock carvings that are protected for future generations to enjoy.
Most of the local accommodations are independent family-owned hotel properties, which allows guests to better connect with the locals and learn more about Loreto’s rich history.