Site Search: Find What You’re Looking For

Ever wondered what it would be like to be on a genuine ice glacier that has existed for thousands of years? Well, if you have, then consider heading to the epic Columbia Icefield's Athabasca Glacier in Jasper, Alberta, Canada! This is an absolute gem of a place you must surely visit if you can. If ever you were looking for a bucket list adventure, this is it! When you think of an ice glacier, do you immediately think of Antarctica? The North Pole? Polar Ice Caps? That may be the case for many; indeed, the thought of exploring one may even feel impossible. Super cold or inaccessible, it may be feasible to suggest that seeing one of nature's most epic feats is beyond your reach. But we can tell you it is not! Especially if you live in Canada or are travelling to the stunning area of Banff or Jasper in Alberta . Read on for our Athabasca Glacier highlights , some history , facts , how to get to the Columbia Icefield, and where we stayed here. The 'toe' of the Athabasca Glacier makes for a truly epic sight! Want more?  Grab our FREE comprehensive Canada Travel Guide , packed with travel essentials, resources, top destinations, and all of our latest blog posts. In This Post... ● Our Highlights ● The Snow Coach Experience ● A Glimpse into History ● The Wells and Moulins ● Practical Advice See More... ● The Jasper Skywalk ● Where We Stayed ● How to Get There ● Find Hotels Nearby ● Tickets, Hours & When to Go ● Final Thoughts ● Must-See Places Nearby ● Travel Resources Our Highlights from the Athabasca Glacier The Columbia Icefield has no less than six "toes"—spots where the glaciers reach ground level. The toe of the Athabasca Glacier is one of the most accessible in the world, and we were lucky enough to step onto it during a guided tour in 2020, with barely another soul in sight. Panorama of the Icefield with the toe visible amongst the mountains This particular glacier is almost 4 miles long and, in some places, up to 300 meters thick. Standing on it, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, really is something else. There’s nothing quite like feeling the crunch of ancient ice beneath your feet. One of our favorite moments? Bottling some of the freshest water we’ve ever tasted—straight from the glacier itself! Stepping onto the Ice: The Snow Coach Experience Accessing the glacier isn’t easy, but it is thrilling. To get there, you board a specially designed $1 million Snow Coach, part of a fleet of just eight in the world. These all-terrain giants drive along Snocoach Road, a steep incline with a gradient of 6% and an elevation change of 135 meters—the steepest road in North America! This $1 million Snow Coach is one of a fleet of 8 available. The ride alone was a highlight: steep enough that we found ourselves looking through the roof window to see where we were headed. It felt like we were on a futuristic expedition! ADVERTISEMENT A Glimpse into History The Athabasca Glacier forms part of the Columbia Icefield, which straddles the Continental Divide between Alberta and British Columbia. The glacier was first recorded by European explorers in the late 1700s, although it has existed for over 12,000 years. It was named after the nearby Athabasca River, which itself derives from the Cree word "aðapaskāw," meaning “there are plants one after another,” likely referring to the riverbanks. Over the past 125 years, the glacier has lost over half its volume and continues to recede by more than 16 feet per year due to climate change. While sobering, this reality makes witnessing it firsthand even more important—and unforgettable. Dangerous Beauty: The Wells and Moulins One of the most fascinating and terrifying features of the glacier is the presence of wells, also known as moulins (from the French word for “mill”). These deep, vertical shafts are created by meltwater carving tunnels and caves through the glacier ice. They're stunning to see but highly dangerous—we were only allowed to get within a couple of meters. The ice is extra slippery near the moulins, and people have lost their lives falling into them. Our guide told us of one lucky person who survived a fall, but not all are as fortunate. A channel leading up to one of the largest wells on the Athabasca Glacier Practical Advice (From Experience!) Be warned: good footwear is essential. We had winter jackets, but our choice of shoes left a lot to be desired! Hiking boots are a must—don’t make our mistake and wear running shoes on solid ice. We visited in the pandemic year of 2020 and were lucky enough to share the entire glacier with just one other couple. Normally, up to 5,000 people visit each day during the peak season (mid-April to mid-October), so our experience felt extra special. Extra Adventure: The Jasper Skywalk While you're in the area, don't miss the Columbia Icefield Skywalk—a glass-bottomed observation platform suspended 280 meters above the Sunwapta Valley. It’s an incredible way to view the grandeur of the surrounding landscape from a whole new angle. 🔗 Read more: The Columbia Icefield Skywalk in photos—is it worth it? Where We Stayed: A Perfect Base for Glacier Adventures We stayed just a short drive from the glacier, which gave us the flexibility to explore the Columbia Icefield at our own pace. The location was ideal—remote enough to feel like we were in the wild, but still within easy reach of the main attractions. The Columbia Icefield Glacier View Lodge is perfectly placed to capture the epic view of the glacier. Our accommodation, the Columbia Icefield Glacier View Lodge, had stunning views and all the cozy touches you need after a day on the ice. Think warm showers, hearty meals, and a seriously peaceful night’s sleep. We even caught a glimpse of the stars on a clear night—no light pollution here! If you're planning a visit, we’d highly recommend staying here. It makes all the difference to wake up surrounded by the Rockies and be among the first on the glacier in the morning. How to Get to the Athabasca Glacier Adventure The Athabasca Glacier is part of the vast Columbia Icefield in Jasper National Park, Alberta, and is one of the most accessible glaciers in North America. The Glacier Adventure tour departs from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, which sits along the legendary Icefields Parkway (Highway 93). By Car ● From Jasper:  Approx. 1 hour 15 minutes (105 km) south on Highway 93 ● From Lake Louise:  Approx. 2 hours (125 km) north via Highway 93 The drive is incredibly scenic, with frequent wildlife sightings and panoramic views. Look for the signs for the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, where you’ll park and check in for your tour. Car Rental Whether you're planning scenic road trips or quick rides around town, renting a car or scooter can save time. Rentalcars.com  helps you find the best deals from reputable providers. By Shuttle (Skywalk & Glacier Combo) If you’ve booked a Skywalk + Glacier Combo Ticket, your package includes a shuttle from the Discovery Centre to both the Glacier Base Station and the Skywalk. By Tour Guided tours  are available from Banff, Jasper, and even Calgary. These typically include round-trip transport, admission, and guides. Ideal if you don’t plan to drive. Contact Information for Columbia Icefield Skywalk Address Highway 93, 93 Icefields Pkwy Highway, Improvement District No. 12, AB T1L 1J3, Canada Phone (+1) 866-606-6700 Website banffjaspercollection.com Tickets bookings.banffjaspercollection.com ADVERTISEMENT Easily Find Hotels in Jasper and Beyond Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Jasper hotel deals below to find great rates for an overnight stay. Ticket Prices, Opening Times & Best Time to Visit ⪢ Ticket Prices – Glacier Adventure The Glacier Adventure includes a ride on the massive Ice Explorer vehicle onto the Athabasca Glacier, plus time to explore on foot. ● Adults (18–64): CAD 76 ● Seniors (65+): CAD 69 ● Youth (6–17): CAD 50 ● Children under 5: Free (but must sit on an adult’s lap) ● Family Pass (2 adults + 2 youth): From CAD 199 ● Combo Ticket (Glacier Adventure + Skywalk): From CAD 94 for adults Booking online in advance is recommended, especially during the summer. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre . Combo tickets offer better value if you’re also planning to visit the Skywalk . Prices are correct at the time of writing (May 2025). Please check the official website  below for the most up-to-date information. All prices are in Canadian dollars. Convert your currency here . ⪢ Opening Times ● Season: Mid-April to Mid-October (weather dependent) ● Daily Departures: 10 am – 5 pm Tours depart every 15–30 minutes from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre (Last departure may vary based on conditions and daylight.) ⪢ Best Time to Visit ● Late June to early September offers the most stable weather and clearest glacier access ● Morning tours (before 11am) provide crisper light and fewer crowds ● Avoid the midday rush (12–2pm), especially in July and August when tour buses arrive ● Spring and early fall are quieter but may have limited visibility due to weather—check conditions ahead Final Thoughts: A Place Unlike Any Other The Athabasca Glacier might be disappearing, but it remains one of the most striking places we've ever visited. Set within the stunning Jasper National Park, it feels like another planet—one where humans aren’t supposed to be, yet here we are, standing on millennia-old ice. We left with cold toes, full hearts, and a bottle of crystal-clear glacier water. Trust us—it really is the freshest water you’ll ever drink. Adventures like this are what make travelling through Canada so memorable, especially in the Rockies. You’ll find more destinations and experiences in our Canada travel guides . Must-See Places Near the Athabasca Glacier Jasper Skywalk Hover 918 feet above a glacier in the Rockies. We share photos, impressions, and whether it’s worth your bucket list. Lake Louise Get inspired to visit Lake Louise—Canada’s most iconic lake. This guide covers the best time to visit, what to see, and tips for a memorable trip. Lake Moraine Banff’s most breathtaking natural wonder! From glacier-fed waters to hiking trails, here is all you need to know about visiting. Travel Resources

Mexico’s streets are alive with color, culture, and creativity, and we couldn’t get enough of it. From enormous murals in Mexico City to unexpected gems tucked away in sleepy towns, street art here tells powerful stories of identity, history, and imagination. During our travels, we snapped dozens of pieces that stopped us in our tracks… but we’ve narrowed it down to just ten (which was no easy task!). Scroll through our top picks, then vote for your favorite and let us know which masterpiece you'd hang on your wall! Unable to choose a favorite, we decided to compile our top ten and seek your opinion! Browse through and enjoy—don't forget to vote at the end of the post! In This Post... ● Legacy of Mexican Street Art ● Artists You Need to Know ● Where to Find Art in Mexico ● Vote for Your Favorite! ● Watch on YouTube ● Travel Resources Mexico’s creativity goes far beyond its landmarks, with vibrant street art adding another layer to the culture. For more places, experiences, and travel ideas, explore our Mexico travel guides . The Legacy of Mexican Street Art Street art in Mexico is more than just color on a wall; it’s a living legacy. Rooted in the powerful muralism movement of the 20th century, led by icons like Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros, it has long been a tool for storytelling, protest, and pride. Today’s artists continue this tradition, fusing indigenous symbolism, folklore, social commentary, and modern techniques into striking visual displays across the country’s cities and neighborhoods. Artists You Need to Know Behind each mural is an artist with a story. Some of our favorites include: ● Farid Rueda – Known for vibrant, animal-inspired murals that celebrate Mexican heritage. ● Paola Delfín – Her monochrome pieces explore feminine strength and transformation. ● Curiot – Mythical, dreamlike creatures that blend nature with Mexican culture. ● Lapiztola Collective – Political stencil artists based in Oaxaca, with works rooted in activism. ● Smithe – A fusion of anatomy, surrealism, and futuristic themes. You may recognize some of their styles in our top ten picks! ADVERTISEMENT Where to Find the Best Street Art in Mexico We spotted incredible works across the country, but these hotspots stood out: ● Mexico City – Especially Roma Norte, La Condesa, and parts of Centro Histórico. ● Oaxaca – A powerhouse of political and indigenous street art. ● Guadalajara – A mix of traditional and experimental styles. ● San Cristóbal de las Casas – A smaller scene, but bursting with character and color. ● Tulum & Playa del Carmen – Even beach towns have their hidden mural gems! Where have you seen the best art in Mexico? Drop us a comment! Vote for Your Favorite! Now that you've seen our Top Ten Mexican Street Art Picks, it’s time to vote! Which piece stood out most to you, for its creativity, message, or impact? ⪢ Cast your vote in the poll at the end of this post and let us know in the comments why it caught your eye. 1. The Three Amigos San Cristóbal, Chiapas, Mexico 2. The Bull Heads San Cristóbal, Chiapas, Mexico 3. TikTok San Cristóbal, Chiapas, Mexico 4. Butterflies & Flowers San Cristóbal, Chiapas, Mexico 5. The Lady of Cancun Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico 6. Chicken Man Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico 7. The Sea Heart Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico 8. Flowers in Her Hair Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico 9. Scorpio Stare Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico 10. The Skull and Top Hat Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico ⪢ Want More Street Art? We’re planning future roundups like this—so if you love this kind of visual travel storytelling, let us know! You can also check out our favorite shots and behind-the-scenes reels on Instagram at @jennandleon Watch Our Mexican Adventure on YouTube Mexico was our first experience traveling full-time, and it will always hold a special place in our hearts. During our six months there, we explored various accommodations, shared living costs, tried different restaurants, and enjoyed numerous excursions. Our videos capture the essence of daily life and adventures in this beautiful country. We visited Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, Tulum, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Passion Island, Merida, Palenque, and the stunning San Cristobal in Chiapas, where we stayed for three months! If you enjoy our video and want to follow more of our adventures, please like  and subscribe ! Your support truly is invaluable to us, and we will always strive to produce the best content we can from around the world! Travel Resources

Most people prefer companionship while traveling, but there is something about solo travel that is life-changing, a transformative experience, and an opportunity to navigate on your own. It is always suggestive to come out of the comfort zone to experience self-discovery and pure exhilaration. Solo travel means you are the commander of the trip, and you are tailoring the itinerary to your desires. In short, you can discover your rhythm and explore a gamut of experiences. In This Post... ● Dubai ● Thailand ● Japan ● Australia ● Spain ● Canada ● England ● Travel Resources World’s Best Solo Travel Destinations Unveiled Solo travel destinations the world over abound; thus, choosing one rests on the traveler’s budget and interests, as well as preferred experiences. Let’s see the world’s finest solo travel destinations at a glance: ⪢ Dubai Solo travelers can tour Dubai, as it is safe, has a minimal crime rate, and has a plethora of mind-blowing attractions. Exploring the City of Gold solo will be truly rewarding for the gamut of cultural experiences, dining with a view, cruises, massive shopping malls, and more. Once in Dubai, observing the Burj Khalifa and getting on board for the most excellent Dubai desert safari tours  is a mandate; after all, these are integral to the city’s essence. The bucket list also comprises the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Marina, Old Dubai, Dubai Parks & Resorts, the Dubai Creek, and more. Dubai also promises a pulsating nightlife. ⪢ Thailand Solo travelers rejoice. Get your Thailand visa , as Thailand never disappoints. With its cities brimming with life, colorful street markets, charming streets, and relaxing beaches, you are spoiled for choice. Head to Bangkok, the capital city, and you will be in awe at its ornate temples, convenient public transportation, deep culture, and vibrant nightlife. Do visit Wat Arun , the Grand Palace, and the Chatuchak Weekend Market. How can you forget Phuket, Thailand’s charm? Unwind at the pristine beaches of Patong, or try your hand at some water sports. Also, make the most of the night market and some delectable cuisine at a beachfront seafood eatery. Also, add Chiang Mai to the itinerary for some historic charm, arts, beautiful temples like Wat Phra, and Buddhist meditation retreats. ⪢ Japan Japan is much loved for its delectable cuisine, welcoming environment, deep culture, and above all, safety. Cities to explore here are galore—Osaka, Tokyo , Hiroshima, Kyoto , and the like, with each having its distinctive specialty. Solo travelers will simply adore the futuristic skyscrapers as well as the neon-lit streets in Tokyo. The Tokyo Tower, Shinkansen, and Senso-ji Temple should not be missed. Kyoto, conversely, has created a niche for its tradition & history. Solo travelers do not miss Arashiyama’s bamboo groves, tea houses, the Gion district, and Kinkaku-ji ( UNESCO World Heritage site ). Once in Osaka, sample the city’s delectable cuisines and visit Universal Studios, Shinsaibashi, and Osaka Castle. While in Hiroshima, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Miyajima Island, and Hiroshima Castle are must-sees. ADVERTISEMENT ⪢ Australia This is another favorite when it comes to solo travel. What draws travelers to Australia is the friendly locals, iconic spots, and above all, the vibe, which is laid-back. Sydney is an ideal choice, as it is blessed with dazzling beaches like Bondi; the Sydney Harbour Bridge; Surry Hills; and more. Melbourne is synonymous with its culture and art. Solo travelers can marvel at the exquisite street art, partake in live performances and events, and also explore Federation Square and St Kilda. Solo travelers take pleasure in epic road trips in Australia by visiting the Great Barrier Reef for underwater adventures, and if remote adventure interests you, head towards the Australian Outback. ⪢ Spain Spain is truly captivating for solo travelers of every interest. Visit Barcelona’s architectural masterpiece, Antoni Gaudí, shop at La Boqueria, take a lazy walk along Las Ramblas, or let loose on a beach. Get on board to Madrid for some gala nightlife at tapas bars or survey the historic landmarks like the Prado Museum. You can explore Chueca too for some boutique shopping. Also visit Seville for some wonders like Plaza de España, Seville Cathedral, or Maria Luisa Park. If you adore the water, head to the Balearic Islands for their awe-inspiring beaches and thrilling water sports. Also, partake in beach parties in Ibiza. Last but not least, the Moorish architecture in Granada is worth a visit. ⪢ Canada Solo travelers have a mammoth amount to explore in Canada , right from the European charm to being in nature’s lap. Vancouver is famed for its multicultural vibe and historic charm. Step into Stanley Park, visit trendy shops at Yaletown, or delve into deep history at Gastown. Visit Toronto for its dynamic urban experience. Toronto has endless options to offer solo travelers, including the CN Tower, the Distillery District, and Queen Street West for world-class shopping and dining. The theaters and galleries, as well as museums, also top the list. Then there is Banff National Park for satiating the outdoor buffs. Spot wildlife, go on hikes, or marvel at the beautiful mountains. Do not sideline the Icefield Parkway and Lake Louise . ⪢ England Solo travelers will fall in love with England for its endless possibilities waiting to be explored. Visit Buckingham Palace as well as the British Museum in London. Feel the uniqueness of Notting Hill or wander through Soho. The well-connected transportation makes every tour a breeze. Then there is Cambridge, as well as Oxford, steeped in culture, abode to highly esteemed universities, and the quintessential English experience. Visit Bath Abbey in Bath and Tintagel Castle in Cornwall. Also, explore Stratford-upon-Avon, where William Shakespeare was born, along with other opportunities such as English pubs as well as tearooms. Wrapping Up The bottom line is, don't be afraid to travel solo. This world is all yours for exploration. Take a single baby step to get started, and there will be no looking back. Happy solo travels! Travel Resources Written by a Guest Writer for Closer Lives Travel & Lifestyle Blog

As someone who works at the heart of a global travel tech company—and travels often myself—I’ve seen firsthand how staying connected abroad can make or break your trip. At GigSky, we believe getting online when you land shouldn’t be stressful. No more juggling SIM cards, outrageous roaming fees, or desperately searching for Wi-Fi. That’s why I’m ( Dillon, the marketing manager at GigSky) excited to share exactly why GigSky eSIMs have become a must-have for so many travelers, from digital nomads and business flyers to weekend adventurers. In this post, I’ll walk you through the benefits of using a GigSky eSIM , how it works, and why it might just be the most important thing you pack. In This Post... ● Convenience and Flexibility ● Save Money on Travel ● Stay Connected Worldwide ● Simplify with Easy Activation ● Enhance Your Travel Security See More... ● Travel Green ● Real Travelers Share ● Start Your GigSky eSIM Journey ● Offers for Visa Cardholders ● Our User-Friendly GigSky App ● Lifestyle Resources 1. Unmatched Convenience and Flexibility with GigSky Traveling through Ecuador last year, I found myself constantly searching for reliable internet access. With GigSky eSIM, the days of juggling multiple SIM cards are over. Our eSIM allows you to switch between carriers seamlessly, ensuring you're always connected without the hassle of physical SIM cards. 2. Save Money on Travel with GigSky eSIM I remember the shock of my first international roaming bill. With GigSky eSIM, you can avoid those exorbitant charges. Our eSIM offers competitive local rates, saving you money on your travel expenses. It’s a budget-friendly solution that every traveler needs. 3. Stay Connected Worldwide with GigSky eSIM Whether you're in the bustling streets of New York or the remote mountains of Ecuador, GigSky eSIM ensures you have reliable connectivity. Our eSIM provides global coverage, keeping you connected wherever your adventures take you. ADVERTISEMENT 4. Simplify Your Travel with Easy GigSky eSIM Activation Activating GigSky eSIM is a breeze. Download our app, select your plan, and make payment, and our app will activate your eSIM so you're ready to go right away. It's that simple! This ease of activation was a lifesaver for me in Ecuador when I needed to get online quickly. 5. Enhance Your Travel Security with GigSky eSIM Travel security is a top priority. With GigSky eSIM, your security is guaranteed since we’re an MVNO with multiple secure data centers, so you reduce the risk of SIM card theft and enjoy enhanced data protection. It’s one less thing to worry about while you’re exploring new destinations. 6. Travel Green with Gi gSky eSIM Using GigSky eSIM is an eco-friendly choice. By eliminating the need for physical SIM cards, we’re reducing plastic waste. It’s a small step towards more sustainable travel, and every bit helps. 7. Real Travelers Share Their GigSky eSIM Experience Don’t just take my word for it. Many of our users have shared their positive experiences with GigSky eSIM. From business travelers to vacationers, everyone appreciates the seamless connectivity and cost savings. Hear why these travel influencers love to use GigSky: Vivian , Karina , Bonnie , Olivia ,  and others . 8. Start Your GigSky eSIM Journey Today Ready to experience the benefits of GigSky eSIM? Our app makes it easy to purchase and activate your eSIM. Whether you're preparing for a business trip or a family vacation, GigSky eSIM is your perfect travel companion. 9. Enjoy Exclusive Offers for Visa Cardholders If you’re a Visa cardholder, you’re in for a treat. GigSky offers exclusive discounts and benefits , making our eSIM even more accessible and affordable. Check your eligibility through our app and start saving today. 10. Travel Smarter with Our User-Friendly GigSky App Our GigSky app is designed to make your travel experience smoother. Easily check your eligibility, activate your eSIM, and manage your data plans all in one place. It’s perfect for business travelers with packed schedules and for those who love to stream videos on the go. 👉 Special Features: Cruise + Land eSIM Plans and Unlimited Data Plans Here at GigSky, we're proud to be the only provider offering Cruise + Land eSIM plans. This means you stay connected at sea, in port, and on land. No more worrying about finding Wi-Fi or switching SIM cards mid-trip. We also offer Unlimited Data Plans, so you never have to worry about topping up or running out of data. This is especially beneficial for business travelers who have a lot of meetings or for those who love to stream videos. Conclusion In 2024, travel smarter and stay connected with GigSky eSIM. From my personal experiences to our innovative features, I believe GigSky eSIM is essential for every traveler. Visit GigSky.com today, download our app, and start your journey with the best travel connectivity solution out there. Safe travels, and see you out there exploring the world! SAVE 10% on your first order with this exclusive discount code! Enter CLOSERLIVES10 at the checkout! *excludes cruise and in-flight plans. Visit GigSky.com today. Lifestyle Resources Written by Dillon Dubois for Closer Lives Travel & Lifestyle Blog. If you would like to contribute, see our Write for Us  page and Guest Writer Guidelines .