If you already know plenty about European countries, want to avoid the heat of Africa and don’t agree with some of the new US political views, you can easily skip all of these places and check out some of the alternatives. For instance, Canada has everything you might need: European vibe, Africa’s charm and natural beauties of the US. Plus, it’s a welcoming country that encourages freedom, acceptance and tolerance! What more do you want? So, if you’re intrigued by this North American giant, here are a few things to know before you grab your plane tickets.
Best time to travel
Canada is an all-year-round destination. It’s gorgeous during any season and your travel schedule should depend on what you want to see and do. Winters in Canada (November to February) are snowy, magical and very, very cold. However, if you can survive the freezing temperatures, you’re in for a real treat. Everything gets wrapped up in a white shroud and every lake, river, forest and mountain will look even more magical.
If you’re more of a summer type, just keep in mind that for Canadians, this season is brief. However, it’s filled with this unbelievable energy as everyone hurries to catch as much sunlight as possible! Summers all around the country are filled with festivals, outdoor sports (kayaking, canoeing and portaging) and friendly hangouts.
Explore the wilderness of Canada
Canada’s strong suit is definitely its natural gifts. While the USA has Yellowstone, Canada has Banff National Park in Alberta. This is probably the best place for all nature lovers, adventurers and explorers who want to experience the wilderness of this northern giant. Banff is spackled with snow-covered and menacing peaks, dense forests and crystal-clear mountain lakes (they can be explored on foot, bicycle or kayak and all of them are suitable for camping).
Yukon is also a great place for those thirsty for mountains, rivers, plains, calm yet untamable wilderness and all the freedom these sights offer. The people of Yukon are true mountaineers often engaging in hiking, canoeing, dogsledding and fishing. But, if you’re into history and culture, make sure to chat to some of the First Nations people who still call this bountiful part of North America their home.
There are also many ways you can explore Canada. From trains to cruisers, packages by Canada & Alaska Travel Connection will take you all over the country from the Canadian Rockies and Yukon to charming alpine villages and big cities such as Montreal, Quebec, Toronto and so much more. You can really get to know the entire country and see magical things (Aurora Borealis, anyone?). A photo would be a great remembrance when travelling, you can check local photo studios that offers different photo related services like the best passport photos Calgary has to offer.
Hit the slopes
If you’re looking for an alternative to Aspen (USA), Courchevel (FRA), St. Anton (AUT) and Niseko (JPN), look no further than Whistler in British Columbia. This is an uber-popular and exclusive ski spot perfect for both beginners and those who hit the slopes a fair amount of time in their life. But there’s more to BC than just Whistler. Silverstar, Big White and Revelstoke all have amazing terrain and a steady supply of snow in the winter.
Try out Canadian city life
Once you get tired of exploring Canada’s nature, you can hit the cities and see how most Canadians live. If you love a metropolitan vibe, head to Montreal. This city has amazing food, a great music scene and a buzzing nightlife perfect for everyone. No matter if you want to dance the night away, grab a beer or just enjoy some relaxing live music, Montreal will deliver. What’s important to point out is that Canada is very LGBT-friendly, so expect an awesome scene and liberal people all around you!
If you’re a true music lover and want to find a good alternative to Chicago’s perfect scene, check out Toronto. This Ontarian city has the best music scene in Canada (Peaches, Deborah Cox, deadmau5, Crystal Castles) but it’s also home to some of the most beloved sports teams like hockey’s Maple Leafs, baseball’s Blue Jays and basketball’s Raptors. Plus, the city is built right on the edge of Lake Ontario, so you can expect unbelievable natural beauties.
Fill your belly
One of the best things about traveling is definitely all the amazing food you can grab. Canada has a huge craft beer scene, so if you want to grab a pint or two, head to Vancouver Island and sample any (or all) of the 20 craft breweries located there. If you’re more into solid foods, you simply must buy a portion of famous poutine. The classic gravy option is great, but make sure to top it with pulled pork and bacon for the best results. When you want something sweet, grab a serving of Saskatoon berry pie or feast on doughy, deep-fried BeaverTails topped with Nutella, Reese’s Pieces, banana or jam.
We can just go on about Canada’s tourist offer (Trans-Canada Highway, West Edmonton Mall, Niagara Falls, Okanagan, Tofino, Halifax) but it’s best if you book your tour today and come exploring for yourself. You’ll certainly come back to this northern paradise!
