Canada travel can include having face-to-face encounters with nature, attending fascinating cultural events, indulging in fine dining–or maybe a little bit of everything.

Canada’s English and French influences, alongside its huge immigrant influx, make it one of the most culturally and ethnically diverse countries in the world. Visit Canada for various activity options that range from adventurous outdoor experiences to strolling around quaint neighbourhoods. Your schedule can vary tremendously depending on the region and season in which you choose to travel to Canada. Canada is a country filled with wonderfully friendly people, classy, diverse cities, and a diverse landscape that includes tundras, rainforest, deserts, huge mountains, and much more. From the icy tundra of the Yukon to rocky beaches of the east coast, the mountains of Calgary to the rainforests of Vancouver.

The following are a few more basic facts about the Great White North that will make you admire it more:

1. Canada is the second largest country in the world (after Russia) by land mass

Canada has a total area of 9.9 million sq. km. and touches the Pacific, Arctic, and Atlantic oceans (which is why, its motto, “from sea to sea”, is quite logical), making it the country with the longest coastline (243,791 km. long). It is composed of 10 provinces and three territories with Ottawa as its capital. The provinces are: Alberta (capital: Edmonton) , British Columbia (Victoria), Manitoba (Winnipeg), New Brunswick (Fredericton), Newfoundland and Labrador (St. John’s), Nova Scotia (Halifax), Ontario (Toronto), Prince Edward Island (Charlottetown), Quebec (Quebec City), and Saskatchewan (Regina). The three territories are: Northwest Territories (Yellowknife), Nunavut (Iqaluit), and Yukon (Whitehorse).

2. Land of Lakes

Canada has more lakes than the rest of the world combined. At last count, there may be as many as two million, with 563 lakes larger than 100 square kilometres. Canada’s largest include Lake Huron (Ontario), Great Bear Lake (Northwest Territories), and Lake Superior (Ontario). Lake Winnipeg, Canada’s fifth and the world’s 11th largest, is in Manitoba.

3. Multicultural population

Canada is the first country in the world to adopt a policy of multiculturalism, embracing diversity and pluralism. Today, of Canada’s total population of more than 35 million, a fifth are immigrants. In fact, based on the 2011 National Household Survey (NHS), Canada is home to people from over 200 ethnic origins. Around 4.3 per cent of the total Canadian population reported an Aboriginal identity and 19.1 per cent belong to a visible minority. The largest groups among these visible minorities are South Asians, Chinese and Africans, followed by Filipinos, Latin Americans, Arabs, Southeast Asians, West Asians, Koreans and Japanese

4. Democracy/Monarchy

Canada is a Parliamentary Democracy headed by a Prime Minister. However, it is also a constitutional monarchy with executive authority vested in the Queen. This means that the Queen is the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. A parliamentary democracy has three parts: the Sovereign (Queen), the Senate, and the House of Commons. Meanwhile, the government has three levels: federal, provincial and municipal. The federal government is based in Ottawa and is headed by the Prime Minister. Provincial and territorial governments are headed by premiers, while municipal governments are led by mayors.

5. Canada means “village”

The country’s name is derived from “Kanata”, a Huron-Iroquois word meaning village or settlement. Two Indian youths used this word to describe the settlement of Stadacona (now Quebec City) to European explorer Jacques Cartier. Cartier then used “Canada” to describe a bigger area beyond Stadacona. This soon spread throughout the entire region, surpassing its former name, New France.

6. The maple leaf and other symbols

Did you know that it took 40 years for the Canadian parliament to finally decide on a Canadian flag? The red and white flag with the prominent maple leaf was officially launched on February 15, 1965 (making Feb. 15 National Flag of Canada Day) after much debate and rigorous study. But have you ever wondered why the maple leaf is so identified with Canada? Well, for years even prior to the coming of European settlers, aboriginal peoples have been using maple sap as a food staple. Throughout history, the leaf has found its way into Canadian coins, emblems and coats of arms. The maple tree is also very important to Canadians and is the official arboreal emblem. Incidentally, Canada continues to produce three-quarters of the world’s maple syrup output. Meanwhile, the beaver as a national emblem dates back to the 1700s, when the lucrative trade of beaver pelts (for fur hats) put Canada on the map. The Hudson’s Bay Company honoured the animal by putting it in its coat of arms. Another Canadian symbol is the Maple Leaf Tartan designed by David Weiser which became an official symbol in 2011.

7. Canada Day

Canada Day commemorates the signing of the British North America Act (today known as the Constitution Act, 1867) which created Canada. The statutory holiday is celebrated every July 1st, and was, for a time, called Dominion Day. It marks the anniversary of the confederation of three British colonies into four provinces: The United Province of Canada (Ontario and Quebec), New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. To see how Canada Day is celebrated in various parts of the country, go to its official site.

8. “O Canada”

Canada’s national anthem, “O Canada” was composed by Calixa Lavallee, a well-known composer, with the lyrics written by Sir Adolphe Basile-Routhier. Several versions have been made of the anthem, but the version used today was written by Robert Stanley Weir, a lawyer from Montreal. You can watch a rendition of the anthem with lyrics below (YouTube video by Canada Immigrant)

9. National dish: Poutine

Canada’s national dish originated from Quebec in the 1950s. Made up of a tasty mix of french fries, cheese curds and gravy, Poutine has been claimed by numerous people, but its inventor has never been confirmed. Anyway, canucks (a nickname for Canadians) have eaten the wonderful dish in more ways than one. Care for the traditional poutine? Or perhaps poutine with an international twist? How about going gourmet with foie gras poutine?

10. Inventions galore

What do basketball, the pacemaker, IMAX, and the Blackberry have in common? Yes, they were all invented by Canadians. Basketball was invented by Dr. James Naismith, a Canadian PE instructor in Massachusetts who wanted to create a game that can be played indoors during winter. Meanwhile, the first pacemaker was invented by electrical engineer John Hopps, and the IMAX (for Image Maximum) was created by Toronto-based Graeme Ferguson, Roman Kroitor, Robert Kerr and William Shaw. Lastly, the Blackberry cell phone is a product of Research in Motion (RIM), in Waterloo, Ontario. Want to know more Canadian inventions? Here are 19 things you might not know were invented in Canada.

11. National pastime

Hockey is the national winter sport of Canada while lacrosse is the national summer sport. To give you an indication of how Canadians love hockey, the Canada-US Men’s Gold Hockey Game at the Vancouver 2010 Olympics was the most watched television broadcast ever in Canadian history according to NHL.com. Meanwhile, the women’s hockey team has also been dominating the Olympics, winning gold medals, the most recent of which was at the 2014 Sochi Olympic Winter Games.

Places to visit in Canada

The best places to visit in Canada are a proof that the country has a heart bigger than its size when it comes to satiating the wanderlust of every type of traveller. And you would happily agree with us once you see them with your own eyes. Be it the lakes, the gardens, or the cities as a whole, Canada has got it all that would make your holiday worthwhile!

1. Niagara Falls

If there is one destination you’d find in every ‘best places to visit in Canada’ list, it is the Niagara Falls. Built along the spellbinding waterfalls by the same name, this famous city is an ideal place to explore if you’re looking for a magical experience.

Things to do:

Witness the gorgeous waterfalls
Get your game on at the Niagara Falls view Casino Resort
Spend time at the Marine Land

2. Whistler

Home to one of the largest ski resorts in North America, Whistler is your winter holiday destination! Skiing, snowshoeing, and tobogganing are few of the thrilling sports to indulge in for enjoying in this captivating snow land.

Things to do:

Indulge in snowmobiling
Witness the town’s vibrant culture by visiting the art museums and cultural centres
Dine at 21 Steps or Alta Bistro

3. Quebec City

Renowned as North America’s oldest walled city, this is amongst those Canada tourist places, which you must visit with your partner if magic, romance, and all things French is what tickles your fancy the most.

Things to do:

Visit the historic attractions like The Citadel
Relax at the Battlefields Park
Walk along the scenic Terrasse Dufferin

4. St. John’s

Popular for its jelly beaned & crayons colored houses, and being an artist’s retreat, St. John’s is like a mini San Francisco. Despite being the oldest city, the vibe of this place is as refreshing as that of any metro town, which is perfect for any of your holidays.’

Things to do:

Visit the Cape Spear Lighthouse
Learn about the local culture and history at The Rooms
Shop and eat at the famous Water Street

5. Tofino

If you can’t imagine a holiday without a beach, Tofino is the place for you! It’s a paradise for water lovers and a haven for people seeking comfort in their cosy hotel rooms after spending a long day out in the town.

Things to do:

Explore the famous beaches like Long Beach and Chesterman Beach
Try the popular fish tacos
Indulge in kayaking and camping at Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

6. Churchill

This small town located on Hudson Bay definitely counts as one of the best places to visit in Canada. Known as the polar bear capital of the world, Churchill’s is the perfect hotspot for travellers who love having a close encounter with wildlife.

Things to do:

Swim or snorkel with Beluga whales
Explore Fort Prince of Wales
Take a Tundra Buggy tour

7. Old Montreal

Old-world charm, spectacular buildings, and horse-drawn carriages are pretty much what describes the fascinating aura of this oldest area in Montreal. For travellers in pursuit of a peaceful & unique experience, this is the perfect place to be!

Things to do:

Explore the underground city
Rejuvenate at the Spa Scandinave
Take the Old Montreal food tour

8. Banff National Park

Chances are, you have already heard of Banff a lot of times. And why not, it is amongst the top Canada destinations every traveller must visit. Turquoise colored lakes, spectacular glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and mesmerizing landscapes, everything beautiful can be witnessed here at once.

Things to do:

Capture the beauty of Lake Louise and Bow Lake
Take a ride in the Banff Gondola
Go for hiking or white water rafting

9. Stanley Park

If the red-orange colored trees shown in movies have always tickled your fancy, Stanley Park is one place you have to visit in Canada. The red cedar and Douglas fir trees around with a gorgeous view of the city would not only leave you spellbound, but also make you fall for nature again.

Things to do:

Walk through the majestic cedars and firs
Indulge in biking or rollerblading
Take a ride in the Miniature Train

10. Butchart Gardens

Of all the top tourist attractions in Canada, Butchart Gardens is the best place to explore with a camera in hand. With an enchanting display of flowers around, fun boat tours, night illuminations & more, there’s a lot to see and do here that will make your holiday vibrant!

Things to do:

Capture the gorgeous flowers around
Witness the fireworks show designed by Disney
Indulge in ice skating

11. Okanagan Valley

Known for its wineries and fruit orchards, the Okanagan is a beautiful place to visit in Canada. A walk into the regions here makes you feel like you have stepped right into heaven. So, try and savour the beauty around not just with your eyes, but also with your camera.

Things to do:

Visit the Sperling Vineyards or Mission Hill Winery
Spend time at the Okanagan Lake
Take a tour of the Kelowna region

12. Gros Morne National Park

This national park is one of the Canada points of interest you must definitely visit and explore. Geologically diverse and beautiful, it is a part of Long Range Mountains, which makes it even more attractive for a nature admirer like you!

Things to do:

Walk through the Tablelands
Enjoy mesmerizing views from the Western Brook Pond Cruise
Go on a wilderness hike in the Long Range Mountains

13. Algonquin Provincial Park

With lush green forests, enchanting rivers & lakes, this place makes for a perfect tourist spot for anyone who loves nature. You can indulge in wildlife spotting, camping, canoeing, and more activities during your visit, which ensures you take back home more than just pictures.

Things to do:

Experience backcountry camping
Enjoy dog sledding, fishing, and white-water canoeing
Indulge in wildlife spotting

14. Yoho National Park

Of all the Canada tourist places, Yoho National Park located in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains is a place every nature lover must visit. Its gorgeously massive Wapta and Takakkaw Falls make it ideal for your Canada holiday pictures.

Things to do:

Enjoy a serene drive up to Takakkaw Falls
Stroll along the Emerald Lake
Take a bike ride on the Yoho Valley Road

15. CN Tower, Toronto

Touching and beautifying the Toronto skyline, this great tower is home to a lot of experiences. Be it dining at the 360 Restaurant, indulging in edge walking on the glass outside, or just admiring the views of the city from the top, this iconic landmark is the most apt place to visit.

Things to do:

Indulge in the world’s highest ‘hands-free’ walk
Eat at the award winning 360 Restaurant
Capture the beauty of Toronto from the top of the tower

16. Lake Louise

There is no doubt that this lake is one of the most beautiful places in Canada. Apart from admiring the turquoise lakes, the Victoria Glacier, and spectacular mountains in the backdrop, you can also indulge in kayaking or fishing in the summer, and snowshoeing & skiing in the winters.

Things to do:

Indulge in snowboarding at Lake Louise Ski Resort
Explore the village of Lake Louise
Attend the Ice Magic Festival

17. Bay Of Fundy

Popular for offering the famous ‘walk on the ocean’ experience, this tourist attraction is Canada’s most natural wonder. You can witness the highest tides in the world here, and also various species of whales at the same time.

Things to do:

Enjoy the tidal bore rafting
Take pictures of the whales
Go for golfing in the Canadian Maritimes

18. The Yukon

Sometimes a gorgeous sight is all you need to make your holiday magical. The dance of the northern lights in the sky easily visible from Whitehorse or Dempster Highway makes Yukon one of the best places to travel in Canada, especially during winter. So, do make sure you put this on your list.

Things to do:

Witness the northern lights in Whitehorse or Dempster Highway
Fly over the Kluane National Park
Explore the Takhini Hot Springs

19. Garibaldi Lake

The turquoise waters and the snowy mountains make this place a postcard-perfect beauty. While you can indulge in hiking and a lot of activities here, leaving your camera alone is something you wouldn’t want to do even for a second.

Things to do:

Enjoy overnight camping
Experience the fun of snowshoeing
Relax by the lake and capture the picturesque beauty as memories

20. Pyramid Lake

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Canada, this lake should definitely be on your list. Apart from experiences like windsurfing, canoeing, and ice skating, the picturesque beauty of this place makes it a famous tourist spot and a paradise for photographers.

Things to do:

Admire the beauty of the lake with the Pyramid Mountain in the background
Indulge in kayaking, canoeing, or sailing
Spot birds like herons, loons, and chickadee.