Canada is the second-largest country in the world. It boasts a mix of multicultural urban centres and huge expanses of natural beauty steeped in indigenous history.
The majority of Canadians are descended from European migrants but over 1.4 million Canadians are indigenous peoples, and many citizens trace their ancestry to Africa, East Asia, Latin America and the Middle East.
Exploring the major cities
Montreal is the cultural and economic hub of the French-speaking Quebec region. It has the reputation of one of the liveliest cities in North America. It is the second-largest city in Canada and the second-largest city in the French speaking world, just behind Paris. Because of its nightlife, culture and iconic buildings it is often called the “Paris of Canada”.
Toronto is the largest city in Canada and the fourth most populous in the whole of North America. It is also one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse cities in the world. Nearly half of the city’s residents were born outside Canada and there are 80 different national communities living in the city.
The city is on the shore of Lake Ontario, just across the water from Niagara Falls.
Exploring nature
Banff National Park is one of the largest national parks in the world and gave birth to Canada’s extensive national parks system. It has over 1,600 kilometres of hiking trails and is home to diverse 53 species of mammal - including like caribou and grizzly bears.
The area around the park has been inhabited by indigenous peoples for over 10,000 years.
Niagara Falls straddles the border between Canada and the United States of America. There are actually 3 huge falls that make up the geological area. Over 3.000 tons of water flow over the falls every second.
It is also known as one of the most romantic places in the entire world. Honeymoon visitors can get a free pass to a whole range of local attractions.