AlbertaDreaming of the open road? Introducing Pitch a Trip, a program designed by Turo to help everyday Canadians and aspiring content creators turn their road trip dreams into reality. Today, we’re excited to highlight Jameel’s memorable journey through Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, where he, his wife, and their one-year-old daughter explored the stunning landscapes of Canmore and Banff.
The pitch
Jameel and his family planned a relaxing getaway from Calgary to Canmore, Alberta, with the goal of enjoying the serenity of the Rockies. They chose a cozy condominium at the Solara Resort as their base, making it the perfect spot to explore the charming towns of Canmore and Banff, enjoy local delicacies, and create lasting memories with their young daughter.
The destination
The Canmore and Banff area is a stunning destination year-round, but during the holiday season, it transforms into a winter wonderland. From the Rocky Mountain Bagel Company’s must-try breakfast options to the festive Christmas market in Banff, the region offered a perfect blend of nature, wildlife, and community charm.
The journey
The family began their trip by settling into their cozy condo at Solara Resort, providing a homey and comfortable base for their mountain adventures. They started their days with stops at Canmore’s local coffee shops and bakeries, including their favourite, the Rocky Mountain Bagel Company. Jameel noted the importance of visiting early during the week to avoid long lines, ensuring a relaxed start to their mornings.
One highlight of their trip was a visit to Banff’s Christmas market, where Gia, who had recently started walking, explored the festive atmosphere with laughter and smiles. Seeing her pure joy as she trotted through the market added a special touch to their holiday escape.
Driving to Two Jack Lake, they were treated to a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter: a herd of bull elk, roaming majestically and clashing antlers in a dramatic display of nature’s beauty. The family ended their days taking in the awe-inspiring views of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, cherishing the time together away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Pro tips:
Be prepared: Bring proper footwear to explore the area’s many hikes and trails.
Plan ahead: Know your destinations in advance, as GPS signals can be unreliable in the mountains.
Visit early: To beat the weekend rush at popular spots like the Rocky Mountain Bagel Company, plan your visits for weekday mornings.
Keep an open mind: “Go with a free mind, ready to take in the sights and the beauty of nature.”
The Turo experience
Here’s what Jameel had to say about his experience with Turo:
We had such an easy, intuitive, and convenient experience with Turo. From arriving at the pickup location to starting our trip was no more than 3 minutes.” Jameel, a frequent renter from traditional companies like Avis and Enterprise, found Turo to be unmatched: “No lines, no confusing, lengthy paperwork. Turo has them all beat.” The family appreciated their host, Tyler, who was responsive, kind, and helpful. Jameel’s advice for future Turo users? “Be aware if there are kilometre restrictions for the rental, ensure you are familiar with the vehicle, and if it’s a luxury car, use premium gas.”
Turo offers a wide selection of vehicles to fit any budget, style, and occasion. Whether you’re looking for a compact car for a quick getaway, an SUV for a family road trip, or an EV for an eco-friendly adventure, Turo has you covered.
Feeling inspired by Jameel’s adventure? Then why not create your own?
