DESTINATION OF THE MONTH 

CANADA 
 
Canada needs little introduction - it is the land of enchanting landscapes and endless adventure. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the rugged trails of the Rocky Mountains, paddle through the calm waters of Algonquin Park, or ski down world-class slopes in Whistler. Nature lovers can witness the thundering beauty of Niagara Falls, explore the coastal cliffs of Newfoundland, marvel at the northern lights dance across the Arctic sky, or encounter diverse wildlife. City enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the vibrant culture, cuisine, and nightlife of urban centres like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills, peaceful escapes in nature, or vibrant cityscapes, Canada’s diverse terrain and stunning scenery make it a destination like no other. 
 
Canada is renowned for its natural beauty and captivating landscapes. In the west, the Rocky Mountains rise tall with snow-capped peaks, emerald lakes and deep valleys, while in the east, you will find the lush forests and rolling hills of Ontario and Quebec. Eastern Canada is also home to the longest coastline in the world, stretching over 200,000 kilometres and the Bay of Fundy, which features the largest tidal range on Earth. In the north, a vast and remote wilderness awaits, with ice-covered plains, polar wildlife and the mesmerising northern lights, often visible in Manitoba. Among the country’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders is the iconic Niagara Falls in Ontario, one of the world's most breathtaking waterfalls, and British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest, one of largest temperate rainforests and home to the Spirit Bear (the rare white Kermode bear). 
 
The cities offer a wide range of experiences, each show casing its own unique charm and culture. Toronto, the country’s largest city, is known for its diverse neighbourhoods, world-class dining, and iconic landmarks like the CN Tower. Montreal blends European charm with rich history, offering a rich arts scene and beautiful architecture. Vancouver, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and the ocean, is perfect for those seeking adventure. Quebec, the only walled city in North America, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers visitors a glimpse into the past. Ottawa, the capital, is home to historic landmarks such as Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site where visitors can enjoy boating in the summer and in the winter, ice skating on the world’s largest outdoor rink. Edmonton is home to the world’s largest indoor shopping mall, West Edmonton Mall, which features an underground network of shops, amusement park, and even an ice rink. 
 
The food scene is a vibrant mix of regional specialities and global influences, perfectly paired with the country’s renowned wines. In the east, you can enjoy fresh seafood like oysters and lobster, particularly in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Quebec is famous for its French inspired dishes such as poutine, along with maple syrup treats. The prairies feature hearty meals with locally sourced meats like beef and bison, while British Columbia in the west is known for its fresh, sustainable seafood. Wine regions like Niagara and Okanagan Valley produce award winning wines, including the famous ice wine, offering the perfect complement to the country’s cuisine. 
 
Sports and outdoor activities are at the heart of Canadian life, with a connection to the country’s diverse landscapes and seasons. In the summer, lacrosse is the national sport of Canada, while hiking also comes to the forefront. Canada’s vast wilderness offers trails that range from easy strolls to challenging climbs, especially in the Rocky Mountains, which are known for their breathtaking views. In the winter months, ice hockey is the nations beloved sport, playing a key role in the countries culture. Skiing, snowboarding and curling also take centre stage with resorts like Banff and Whistler offering some of the world’s best snow sport terrain. 
 
Canada is home to a rich variety of wildlife, offering visitors the chance to encounter iconic animals such as moose and beavers in Ontario, bears in British Columbia, and an array of birds, including bald eagles and Canadian geese. The country’s coastal waters are teeming with marine life, including sharks, orcas, whales and seals. Nature enthusiasts can embark on orca watching tours in Vancouver, spot whales off the coast of Newfoundland, or visit Telegraph Cove in British Columbia - the only designated sanctuary for killer whales in the country. The northern regions are home to unique species such as caribou and polar bears, and adventurers can hop onboard a specialised tundra vehicle for an unforgettable polar bear viewing experience. With its untouched wilderness, Canada provides countless opportunities to experience wildlife in its natural habitat. 
Getting around is simple and convenient, with various options to suit different needs. A fantastic way to explore the country is by train, with scenic routes like the iconic Rocky Mountaineer providing stunning views of tall mountains and vast valleys, and Via Rail offering diverse landscapes and coastal vistas. For more flexibility, renting a campervan or car allows you to explore at your own pace, discovering the country’s hidden gems along the way. If you are limited on time, flights offer a quick way to cover long distances, with domestic airlines connecting all major cities. Cruising offers a unique and scenic way to experience the country’s coastal beauty, with popular routes like the Inside Passage which takes you through British Columbia to Alaska. 
 
Canada is a perfect destination for families and couples alike, offering a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Families can explore the beautiful national parks, enjoy wildlife sightings, or visit interactive museums such as the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa. For prehistoric adventure, kids will love the Dinosaur Provincial Park in Alberta - a UNESCO World Heritage Site – which is home to an incredible variety of dinosaur fossils, including over 4,500 skeletons from 44 species. Couples can relax in scenic spots like the vineyards of British Columbia or the romantic city of Quebec. From hiking and skiing in the Rockies to cosying up in the cities, Canada’s diverse landscapes and attractions provide the ideal setting for memorable experiences together. 
 
To learn more about booking your dream holiday to Canada, contact us on 01271 816023 or send an email to info@brauntontravel.co.uk, and let us take care of all the details to create the perfect getaway for you. 
Important things to know when travelling to Canada: 
 
Flying time  
The flight duration depends on your destination. Direct flights from London to the east coast take between 6 to 8 hours, whilst flights to the west coast are just under 10 hours. Airlines like British Airways, Air Canada and Air Transat offer direct flights to Canada. 
 
Currency  
Canadian Dollar 
 
Passport and Visa  
As a British passport holder, your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Canada. For visits of up to six months, you will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), which costs C$7 (roughly £3.80) and is valid for five years or the remaining length of your passport. An eTA is not required if you are entering Canada by land or sea. If you plan to stay longer than six months, you will need to apply for a full visa. 
 
Best time to visit  
The best time to visit depends on the type of holiday you are looking for. If you’re interested in snow sports and witnessing the northern lights, the ideal months are December to March. For outdoor activities such as hiking, whale watching and bear viewing, visiting in June to August is perfect, though you may encounter larger crowds and higher prices. Spring and fall (April-May and September-October) offer fewer crowds, pleasant weather and the chance to see beautiful wildflowers or Banff’s golden larch trees and Eastern Canada’s fall colours.