Canada invokes images of vast tracts of boreal forests, cosmopolitan cities, friendly citizens and the ubiquitous Royal Canadian Mounted Police, affectionately known as “Mounties”. Spanning almost 10 million square kilometres, Canada is the second largest country in the world, yet has one of the smallest population densities on the planet. With such size, it is hard to know just how to pack in all this crown-country’s charms and sights into one visit.
Urbanites seeking gastronomic delights, lively nightlife and boutique shopping should head to world class cities such as Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver. Montreal is the second largest city in the country and is a cultural epicentre of the province of Quebec. The city is one of the oldest in North America, and one of the “don’t miss” sections is Old Montreal, or Vieux-Montreal in French. Covering several city blocks, Old Montreal features a thriving nightclub scene, catering mostly to jazz fans. French cuisine is featured throughout Vieux-Montreal with Aix Cuisine du Terroir featuring Quebec meats and produce in a Table D’hote menu.
Moving west in Ontario is Canada’s largest city Toronto. The city sits on the banks of Lake Ontario — one of the Great Lakes. Taking a stroll through Toronto’s Harbourfront is highly recommended. Grab a coffee and walk along the walking trails, stopping to shop at the many sidewalk vendors throughout the region. Hockey fans won’t want to miss a chance to see the Toronto Maple Leaves play at the Air Canada Centre.
For a mix of urban and wild delights, Vancouver, on the far west coast of Canada neatly fills the bill. Vancouver is considered one of the world’s most liveable cities. Shop, eat and drink along Robson Street, then head over to Stanley Park and enjoy the Botanical Gardens. The Vancouver Aquarium is in Stanley Park and should be a “must-see” attraction for any trip to the city. Watch beluga whales swim in their tanks, sea otters frolic and learn of the natural marine environment along the Pacific Northwest Coast.
When you tire of Vancouver’s urban charms, hire a car and drive to Whistler along the Sea-to-Sky highway. Whistler was the sight of the alpine, luge and bob sledding events during the 2010 Winter Olympics. Summer visiting has opportunities for mountain biking, hiking, and wildlife watching. Strap on skis or snowboards and hit the slopes of Whistler-Blackcomb Mountain, one of the best in North America for winter sport adventures.
For those with a pioneering spirit and explorer’s souls, go to the far north. Whitehorse, Yukon Territory is a city filled with Gold Rush history and heritage. Whitehorse is a good jump off point for wilderness tours along the Yukon River, or for a sojourn to the coastal Alaska city of Skagway. When you get out of the field, head to Takhini Hot Springs and enjoy a soak in natural geo-thermal hot springs in the heart of the southern Yukon wilderness.
Canada is a dignified and charming country full of urban and wilderness adventures. Remember too, if you find yourself enjoying a full Canadian breakfast, get the real maple syrup for the hotcakes.
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