TORONTO — According to Maxxim Vacations, more and more Canadians are putting Atlantic Canada on their bucket list of dream destinations, not surprising considering the region is home to some of the country’s most beloved natural treasures.

Featured in the company’s 2010 brochures are a number of fly-drive tours within the four Atlantic provinces. These include Maxxim’s bestseller, the Newfoundland Hospitality Tour, a 10-day odyssey from Gros Morne on the island’s west coast to St. John’s in the east. With this tour, sightseers won’t soon forget the inland fjords of Gros Morne National Park or the stunning landscapes of Terra Nova National Park. A similar program is available on an escorted basis.

“Last year we were thrilled to see that our bookings from agents across Canada were up 7%, and that was in a tough economic environment,” said Judy Sparkes-Giannou, president of Maxxim Vacations, which will celebrate its 20th anniversary. “In 2009, Maxxim was one of the few operators to have seen a single digit increase. This year our inquiries are back to 2008 levels, which was a very strong year for us.”

Sparkes-Giannou also notes that 28% of its clients are repeats and referrals, a testament to the company’s strong reputation and high standard of service.

“I think the secret to our success is knowing Atlantic Canada inside and out – we have access to over 700 suppliers for our tours and customized itineraries,” she added. As a thank you to travel agents, Maxxim is offering 10% commission on all self-drive and escorted packages, including Maxxim fares with Air Canada and WestJet.

Atlantic Canada vacations are priced from $999 per person, double, including airfare. For more information, visit www.maxximvacations.com.