If you need an excuse to treat yourself this summer, here’s a good one: Donald Trump’s trade war. Thanks to rising cross-border costs and a collective elbows-up attitude, Canadians are saying no to big-box outlets and yes to boutique indulgence—right here at home.
And here’s the beautiful thing: New Brunswick does luxury surprisingly well. From cliffside spas to heritage hotels that serve champagne with a side of sunset, this province is proof that staying home doesn’t have to mean cutting corners. In fact, it’s never looked this good.
Luxe Without the Luggage
The Algonquin: History Never Looked So Posh
Perched over the Bay of Fundy in St. Andrews, The Algonquin Resort is a Maritimes icon—and for good reason. Think grand architecture, a full-service spa, and a dining room that somehow makes a Caesar salad feel aristocratic.
Wander the walking trails, take a dip in the outdoor pool, or just sit fireside in a robe pretending you’re old money. Packages often include breakfast, golf, or spa credits—because luxury here doesn’t mean you need to refinance your car.
Forest Bathing with Room Service: Ridgeback Lodge & Savasana Spa
If your dream vacation includes nature, but not bugs, Ridgeback Lodge on the Kingston Peninsula is a dream come true. Their Stargazer domes have kingsize beds, cozy wood stoves, and floor-to-ceiling views of forest canopy. You can add a wood-fired hot tub for peak indulgence.
Meanwhile, Savasana Nordic Spa in Richibucto River takes glamping up a notch. Private domes come with spa features like saunas and soaking tubs. Wellness and design meet in the woods, and it’s way more glamorous than your average wilderness escape.
Eat Like Royalty—Without a Plane Ticket
Sure, you could fly to Montreal for a $300 meal. Or, you could have a mind-blowingly good dinner here in NB for a third of the price and still wear your stretchy pants home.
Try these:
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Little Louis' Oyster Bar (Moncton): Little Louis' is an upscale establishment renowned for refined seafood and steak entrees, complemented by an extensive wine list.
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Rossmount Inn Restaurant (St. Andrews): The Rossmount Inn is celebrated for its commitment to local produce, offering a "trust the chef" menu that changes daily based on the freshest ingredients available.
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Atelier Tony (Dieppe): Atelier Tony is an experience-driven upscale casual restaurant collaborating with local artisans and farmers to serve the bounty of the Maritimes in creative ways.
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Maxwell's Steak & Seafood (Fredericton): Maxwell's is a classic steakhouse with a Maritime twist, featuring elegant dishes and a wide variety of handpicked Canadian steaks.
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Italian by Night (Saint John): Italian by Night is an urban Italian restaurant offering a romantic atmosphere with a menu focused on old-world techniques in a modern kitchen.
Pro tip: Many of these spots offer prix fixe menus or weekday specials (because luxury tastes better when it's also a deal).
Spa Day, the New Protest
If staying local is a quiet rebellion, then soaking in a hot tub while reading Margaret Atwood is basically political action.
Try:
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La Belle Cabane (Kingston): La Belle Cabane is a forest-based sanctuary with private spa pods, saunas, and halotherapy rooms.
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Nattuary Nordic Spa (Saint Martins): With views of the Bay of Fundy, Nattuary Nordic Spa is a steamy coastal retreat with serious serenity.
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Hope-Wellness Eco-Resort (Albert County): Hope-Wellness Eco-Resort combines yoga, thermal circuits, and upscale eco-lodging in one soul-soothing package.
Book a massage, grab a plush robe, and let the world turn without you.
Because Canada > Tariffs
In a post-tariff world, every dollar you spend in New Brunswick stays in New Brunswick. You’re not just pampering yourself, you’re boosting local businesses, jobs, and communities. Plus, you're proving that you don’t need a border crossing to experience first-class service, gourmet meals, or unforgettable views.
This isn’t just a staycation. It’s a stay-elegant, stay-proud, stay-local revolution.
And the best part? Your return flight is basically just the drive home.
