Let's Fly Away

Austin’s top travel stories of 2021 soar with nonstop flights and magical getaways

The Bahamas are calling.

Courtesy photo

Editor’s note: As 2021 comes to a close, we look back at the biggest headlines of the year, today turning our attention to travel. This year, Austinites were itching for getaways near and far. Our top 10 travel stories of 2021 soared with nonstop flights to dreamy destinations and glamorous Hill Country escapes.

1. Austin lands first nonstop flight to Caribbean hot spot. In May, American Airlines launched weekly nonstop service between Austin and Nassau, marking the first nonstop service from ABIA to the Bahamas.

2. Austinites can embark on fairy-tale getaway at Hill Country castle. You’ll pay a princely sum for this one-of-a-kind rental.

3. Texas’ largest crystal lagoon makes a splash with new floating cabanas. The only thing splashier than a crystal lagoon? An “aquabana” for lounging in the cool blue waters.

4. ‘Coolest’ Airbnb in Texas makes waves in surprising Austin suburb. Conde Nast Traveler approves of this quirky geodesic escape.

5. 2 new nonstop routes embark from Austin airport to tourist hot spots. This summer, ABIA landed easy access to one of America’s most popular national parks and one of the hippest small towns in the U.S.

6. Austin adds 2 new nonstop flights to Mexico for under $100 each way. In June, an ultra-low-cost airline from Mexico added routes from Austin to Mexico City and Monterrey.

7. Austin airport takes off with 7 new nonstop flights from Southwest. Not to be outdone, one of Texas’ favorite airlines launched a slew of new nonstop flights for summer travel.

8. 8 must-stay glamping destinations in the Hill Country and beyond. Those preferring to get away from it all by car could find inspiration in these luxe-but-rustic recommendations.

9. 5 weekend trips near Austin for an inspired pandemic getaway. These small-town weekend excursions provide a break from it all — without the crowds.

10. Low-cost airline grounds 3 nonstop routes from Austin airport. Citing low demand, JetBlue cut flights around the country, including three out of Austin.

WestJet goes South

Canadian airline launches nonstop route between Austin and Vancouver

Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images

WestJet is offering the route three times a week.

Austin residents eager to visit this country's neighbors to the north will have a new nonstop route to Vancouver International Airport (YVR), beginning May 11, 2025: WestJet, a major Canadian airline, will fly the route three times a week.

A release heralds "significant tourism and economic opportunities in both destinations."'

According to the City of Austin's list of nonstop flights out of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), there are already routes to Vancouver offered by Air Canada. This route was launched in 2022. However, they are not currently available to book online.

The WestJet release mentions the airline's summer schedule, but does not specify an end date or whether the route will change seasonally.

Flights will depart Vancouver at 6 pm and arrive in Austin at 12:17 am. In the other direction, they'll depart Austin at 8 am and arrive in Vancouver at 10:38 am.

"As we continue to strengthen our service across Western Canada, we are proud to add new WestJet service between Vancouver and Austin as part of our expanded summer schedule," said Daniel Fajardo, WestJet's Vice President of Network and Schedule Planning, in the release.

"This service will provide a valuable connection between the Greater Vancouver Area and Southern U.S.," he continued, "offering guests a convenient and affordable way to explore Austin's thriving music scene and renowned culinary culture, while also providing U.S.-based guests access to one of Canada's most iconic metropolises."

Another WestJet exec also points out Austin's reputation as a music city. The carrier also announced new routes to Boston and Tampa.

Earlier in November, budget carrier Frontier Airlines announced it would double its options by adding four U.S. destinations from AUS, and Delta Airlines announced new nonstop service to Jacksonville, Florida — the only such service currently available.

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WestJet goes South

Canadian airline launches nonstop route between Austin and Vancouver