10 Things To Know About Canada
Canada is a large country with a tiny populace which is very welcoming of tourists. Canadian travel enthusiasts should, however, plan their travel well in advance because of the variety of offerings and also the country’s size. We have a quick and informative blog for our aspiring travelers. Do check it out and give us your bit of information on Canada in the comments below.
1. Living Large
Canada is the second biggest country in landmass, right after Russia. There are 10 provinces and 3 territories in Canada. It is best to choose 1 or 2 provinces, or one territory at a time for quality travel. Another way to see the entire country however, is by train. ViaRail does offer a coast-to-coast trip from Halifax on the Eastern coast to the Pacific coast of British Columbia which lasts for two weeks. Train travel can be an exhilarating experience is recommended for people looking for a laidback and calming travel, abroad.
2. The Mountains
Mountains play a huge part in the population’s hobbies. The west coast offers the best conditions with the Rockies bordering British Columbia and Alberta. This impressive mountain range provides premium downhill skiing conditions during the winter season. As the other seasons roll by, mountains are used for breathtaking hiking and mountain biking trails.
3. Weather
You might want to consider the Canadian weather while planning your trip. As the weather is not moderate and the region is known for its extremely cold weather conditions, you can come here to enjoy an exhilarating snowfall and take train rides across towns.
4. The Falls
One of the 7 Wonders of the World, Niagara Falls is situated in Southern Ontario, about an hour and a half south of Toronto. The falls are right on the border of the United States and can be observed from both countries however, Canada offers the most stunning views.
5. Language
English and French are the two official languages of Canada. While the vast majority of the country only speaks English, French is the main language in the province of Quebec and is still widely used on the east coast provinces of Prince-Edward-Island and New Brunswick. Nonetheless, most everyone does speak English.
6. National Dish
Montreal-style smoked meat, Maple syrup, Pea meal bacon, Butter tart, Poutine, Nanaimo bar are some of the known Canadian dishes. However, due to the continual immigration waves, the food in this country is a mix of different cuisine. Maple Syrup can be considered a Canadian specialty since Quebec and eastern Ontario – are the world’s main producers of maple syrup.
7. Ask for Help
All the rumors and jokes about Canadians being so nice and polite are largely true. In the larger cities; Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Ottawa, etc. if one sees a tourist looking at a map or a cellphone trying to find their way somewhere, people will stop and offer their help. So, if ever you find yourself in need of some directions or advice do not be afraid to ask, people will generally answer you gladly.
8. Residents
Only about 10% of the landmass of Canada is inhabited. Due to the extreme climate this country is subject to, the residents of the 10 provinces all live on the southern end, close to the United States border. Residents of the 3 territories; Northwest Territories, Yukon and Nunavut, only make up a tiny percentage of the country as a whole.
9. Inner-city Transport
Canada’s 3 largest cities are, in order, Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver. Each presents a unique set of tourist attractions and cultural sites and they are all easy to navigate. City run trains are efficient, fast and safe. The Toronto Subway, Montreal Metro System and Vancouver SkyTrain get commuters anywhere in the cities with buses complementing them. Alternatively, there are rental bikes dispersed in stations throughout the streets that can be returned at any other similar location. Vancouver has great parks and wildlife trails, Montreal’s old city still accurately portrays what the city looked like when the French first built it and Toronto is arguably the most culturally diverse city in the world.
10. Flora and Fauna
Canada’s National Parks are found all over the country and make great destination for anyone; from day hikers to campers. The Eastern seashore provinces are known as the Maritimes and offer forests as well as beaches. Quebec and Ontario are home to boreal forests filled with evergreens and the iconic maple trees. The Prairies: Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta make up a part of the country mostly devoid of mountains but filled with forests.
We hope that this informative piece of blog will make your Canadian trip easier and fun. Book a Canadian package with Go Discover Abroad and get a memorable holiday experience.