Karen Cooke

Canada - A Land Of Diverse Extremes

Canada is a region of geographical extremes. Occupying most of North America Canada is the world's second largest country and boasts the world's longest coastline of 202,080 kilometres. The physical geography of Canada is also widely varied. Forests cover most of the country while ice covers the northern regions, and the Canadian Prairies in the southwest provide arable soils for crop production.  

Regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in Canada, Vancouver is a top destination for a luxury holiday. Its location between the Pacific Coastal Mountains and the Pacific Ocean means the city is home to some of Canada's best kept beaches and a number of luxury resorts.

For travellers seeking sky-high adventure Grouse Mountain is a must. Board the air tram and climb 3700 feet to the top. When you near the summit, there's a playground and hiking trails to enjoy. In the summer, activities include: logger sports shows, chair rides, mountain bike tours, paragliding and much more. In winter Grouse Mountain is a magnet for snow enthusiasts.

Toronto sits on the northern shores of Lake Ontario and is Canada's largest city. With a population of 4,682,900 the city serves as Canada's financial and business capital.

Toronto is influenced by a variety of cultures, earning it the reputation for being one of the most diverse cities in the world.

The Asian influence is obvious in the city, with Toronto being home to the second largest Chinatown in North America. Visitors will find themselves overwhelmed by the numerous street markets, eateries and traditional apothecaries that make up Toronto's Chinatown.

Most of the main attractions are located within walking distance of downtown Toronto.

Luxury tours of the area are plentiful, and most feature stops at the Museum for Textiles, Old City Hall, and Mackenzie House. Shopping in Toronto is a thrilling experience. From the bohemian thrift-shops of trendy Queen Street West to the exquisite boutiques of Bloor Street, travellers will never be short of things to look at.

Toronto Islands is just a short ferry ride from downtown's Harbourfronte Centre. An entire day can be spent enjoying the beaches, amusement rides, eateries, boating activities and more. Be sure to pay a visit to the Harbourfronte Antique Market.

Montreal is a city where its romantic blending of English and French cultures gives it a bi-lingual status. It is the second largest city in Canada and the second largest French-speaking city in the world after Paris.

Most of the city's downtown is accessible via an enormous underground complex designed so residents don't have to brave the freezing winter. About 40 city blocks are linked together by 31km of underground walkways which includes 6 metro stops and Lucien L'Allier train station.

Saskatoon is a city characterised by its lively ambience and rich variety of experiences.

Located next to the beautiful South Saskatchewan River, Saskatoon offers visitors a variety of nature-based activities, cultural programs and events.

Much of Saskatoon's appeal comes from its beautiful setting along the South Saskatchewan River. Along the river's Meewasin Valley lies a nature lovers' paradise. Walk, run or jog on more than 21 miles of paved trail.

Riverside attractions include the Meewasin Valley Centre, the Ukrainian Museum of Canada and Diefenbaker Canada Centre. At Wanuskewin Heritage Park you can relive stories of Northern Plains people from over 6000 years ago.

Or you can stroll along the longest indoor street in North America and experience the pioneer life at the Western Development Museum. Saskatoon is also the location of some of Canada's most challenging golf courses. For a taste of Saskatoon Berry Pie a trip to The Berry Barn is a must.

Whitehorse, Yukon, is a small city where history comes alive. Located on the banks of the Yukon River, Whitehorse was a key location in the gold rush of the 1800s, a theme that is still central to the city today. Visitors can still visit the SS Klondike, a sternwheeler boat that ferried passengers to the goldfields. The land that inspired poet Robert Service and novelist Jack London continues to inspire visitors today.

Festivals and special events are a central part of Whitehorse culture. From February's annual Yukon Quest International Sled Dog race to the Solstice Celebrations in June, activities abound, no matter the season.

During the summer, there are historical walking tours to enjoy, wildlife tours, hiking, canoeing, and much more. The wooden fish ladder on the Whitehorse Fishway is a great place to see nature, while hot springs offer relaxation afterwards. In the winter, hundreds ofkilometres of ski and snowshoeing trails surround the city.

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