Forests as vast as oceans, mirrored by a constellation of lakes. Trees with chameleon-like foliage that changes color with the seasons. Wildlife as impressive as the wide-open spaces it inhabits. That's what people often look for in Canada. A country where nature unfurls its excesses, where man must always deal with a climate that sails in excesses. And where the few big cities are still anecdotes in the landscape.
One thing's for sure: you can't visit this country in one go, let alone in a week. You'll have to make choices, opt for a province or region and limit yourself to a few experiences. A citytrip to Montreal, Toronto or Vancouver. A road trip along the Gaspé Peninsula or the Rockies. A trek from lake to lake in the Laurentians. A seaplane escapade from outfitter to outfitter. An aurora borealis safari... Yes, in Canada, the options are as vast as the country itself.
1. Québec, North America's only fortified city.
2. Niagara Falls, said to be the best view from the Canadian side.
3. Canoeing on Lake Louise in Alberta.
4. Watching polar bears in Churchill or in the Far North.
5. Marvel at the shimmering colors of the eastern forests during the Indian summer.
6. Skiing in the mountains of British Columbia.
7. See whales in Tadoussac and orcas on the coast of British Columbia.
There's no doubt about it, Canada is a nature destination. With national parks larger than some countries. Alberta's Wood Buffalo, for example, is larger than Switzerland.
Turning right at a red light is permitted everywhere in Canada, except on the island of Montreal. At intersections without traffic lights, everyone stops and the first one to arrive has the right of way. And above all, it's imperative to stop behind a school bus whose lights are flashing.
Coming from the USA, you may be surprised to learn that Canada doesn't use the same system of measurement as its neighbor: here, we count in kilometers, liters and thermometers display degrees.
Canadian is friendly: in restaurants, on hikes, in the elevator, we say hello to each other and it's easy to strike up a conversation, even if we don't know each other.
It's tradition: in restaurants, you're almost automatically served a tall glass of ice-cold water. Except in Quebec and Alberta (age 18), you must be 19 to drink alcohol. And don't forget the tip (18% of the bill on average), which is highly recommended.
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