Canada is one of three countries located in North America. Twice the size of the European Union which consists of 27 countries! Today Canada is made up of 10 provinces and 3 territories. First discovered by European explorers over 500 years ago but has been inhabited for thousands of years! Here is more about Canada and why you should visit.
A To Z Travel Blog - Canada
Canada stretches all the way in the north (from west to east) Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. Under Yukon are British Colombia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Foundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
Each province and territory offers something unique and beautiful from national parks to architecture and even natural phenomena such as the Reversing Falls.
Getting To Canada
Traveling to Canada via plane is the easiest route with direct and daily flights from the UK operated by Air Canada, Air Transat, and Westjet there are also a few indirect options including Iceland Air where you can add a layover in Reykjavik for free!
We flew this year for the first time with Air Transat from Glasgow to Toronto Pearson International Airport in just under 7 hours. The flight was comfortable with good inflight entertainment and onboard meals. Like many airlines, Air Transat charges for many elements such as seat selection, priority boarding, and luggage. Though was still the best value for our travel dates. We did find there was a substantial difference in cost if flying from Edinburgh. Flight prices start from £345 excluding add-ons.
Accommodation
Accommodation is available to suit many budgets from an Airbnb through to 5* hotels. You might like to enjoy a night or two in a historic lighthouse or perhaps a haunted jail.
Do book in advance to avoid disappointment.
When To Visit
Canada is a great destination all year round with colourful spring blooms, magical winter wonderland ski locations, and everything in between. You might like to time your visit for the autumnal colourful displays or one of the many annual festivals such as Carnaval de Québec, which has been running since 1955.
Need To Know
Today from the UK you need to apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) visa. It costs around £5 depending on currency exchange on the day. The Canadian dollar currently is $1 = £0.59 GPB It can be an expensive destination. Budget around $50 - $100 dollars per day. Don't forget to take out comprehensive travel insurance for the duration of your stay and ensure if taking part in any winter sports, that these are included. We found it extremely safe but like most big cities and crowded locations, please be mindful. For more current and up-to-date travel advice please visit: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/canada
Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver is known around the world for its friendly people, beautiful scenic views, and mild climate. The bustling city has so much to see and do from the incredible Capilano Suspension Bridge to the colourful landscaped gardens of Stanley Park. The city is very easy to navigate on foot.
While visiting Vancouver you might like to add on a panoramic seaplane trip to Victoria Island or how about an Alaskan cruise?
Toronto, Ontario
The most populated city in Canada, Toronto is a dynamic metropolis with towering skyscrapers, lush green parks, a variety of dining possibilities, and entertaining museums.
From Toronto, you can travel to one of Canada's beautiful national parks - Algqonquin or visit Niagara Falls. It is also a travel hub for onward travel to other major Canadian cities such as Ottawa and Quebec. There are also frequent trains and buses to upstate New York.
Quebec City, Quebec
If you are looking for historic charm Quebec City dates back to 1608 with fortitied city walls and cobblestone streets of The Petit Champlain district. A must-visit with boutique shops and cafes. Quebec is home to 800,000 people and is the second-largest French-speaking city in the world. It is famous for maple syrup and is home to the annual winter festival Carnaval de Québec which takes place each February. Will you visit and see Mr Bonhomme (snowman)? Don't miss a visit to the incredible Montmorency Falls. You might like to stay at The Ice Hotel - Hotel de Glace, inside one of the ice-themed rooms or suites (January - March) or The historic and impressive Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac.
St John, New Brunswick
Canada's 4th largest cruise port is the gateway to the beautiful Bay of Fundy. Said to have the highest tides, rising to 12 metres twice every single day.
Have you heard of the natural phenomena of the Reversing Falls? Witness a series of rapids change direction on the Saint John River, where the river runs through a narrow gorge before entering the Bay of Fundy. The best time to visit and see the Reversing Falls is either at low or high tide during a full or harvest moon when the tides are at their extreme.
One of the ports of call visited on the Canada & New England cruise itinerary. Highly recommend it!
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Canada's second-smallest province (following Prince Edward Island), is located on the southeastern coast of the country. Nova Scotia means "New Scotland" in Latin and its flag was designed as a combination of the Scottish Saltire and the Royal Arms of Scotland. It is home to over 1 million and growing. It has a rich history with beautiful scenic landscapes. Don't miss a visit to Peggy's Cove with its characterful fishing harbor and candy-striped lighthouse.
I hope you have enjoyed reading the A to Z Travel Blog on Canada. As always, I love to hear from you with any questions or comments you may have. You can get in touch via email, Facebook, X, Instagram and you can also find me on YouTube.
For more travel tips and how you can make the most of your hard-earned cash for traveling, I have written an ebook called How To Get The Best Travel Deals. Available via Amazon.
Until next time...happy travels, Michelle x