Experience the other North American Country - GO CANADA!

When you’re thinking of a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a vacation destination with a lot of historical sites and adventure, does Canada come to mind? If it does, continue reading about second largest country in the world and what it has to offer.  If it doesn’t, then you should still continue to read the following and allow us to introduce you to a beautiful country, one that is closer to home than you might realize.  Depending on whether you are traveling from the East Coast, West Coast, or from the Mid West, there are cities within Canada that are easily accessible from various points within the United States. 

We  are always asked, “What documents are required to cross the Canadian Border?”  “Do we need passports; can we use our driver’s license, or birth certificates?”  For all American citizens entering into Canada, you are required to present a valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card. NEXUS members receive a special travel card that allows expedited border crossings for both private and commercial travelers through both U.S. and Canadian border controls. For entry back into the United States either by land or by sea, you MUST present a valid U.S. Passport, passport card, NEXUS Card, or an Enhanced Drivers License.  Children under 16 are only required to present proof of U.S. citizenship.

Canadian

Now that we’ve given you the information on how to get into Canada, let’s talk about why you should visit and where you should go.  Since there are so many different cities within this beautiful country, you could plan an amazing vacation to satisfy everyone’s needs; it all depends on what interests you and the time of the year you are traveling.  For instance, if you want to take an Alaskan cruise, (see our March 11^th Blog – From Hiking to Cruising, Alaska has it all), you might want to consider departing from Vancouver, British Columbia. If you are looking to visit the famed Niagara Falls, (yes there are two sides, one in New York and one on the Canadian side) then you would want to arrange your travel to include a stay in Toronto.  If you are looking for a little bit of a historical tour, then you should definitely check out Montreal and Quebec City.  And finally, if you are looking to take a road trip or a New England Cruise out of either Boston, MA or out of New York, you absolutely should make sure your itinerary includes a stop in Nova Scotia.

Aerial View of Vancouver

Let’s take a look at what Vancouver has to offer you.  Named the Top Destination in Canada, Vancouver has something for all its visitors. From outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and even skiing, to unique spa experiences, to fine wines, and gourmet foods, Vancouver will leave you wanting to come back for more.  Vancouver is one of the few places in the world where it's possible to ski in the morning and sail in the afternoon. 

Toronto Skyline

Are you into performing arts and want a cultural experience? Are a sports fanatic and like Canadian hockey or baseball teams over the U.S Teams? Then you should consider Toronto for your next vacation destination.  Toronto offers you the very best of Canada. It’s said, “if Vancouver is the pretty face of Canada and Montreal it’s bohemian soul, Toronto is the country’s warm, fast beating heart.” With neighborhoods that include five China Towns and two Little Italy’s, it’s no wonder this city is compared to other big cities like New York and Chicago, Toronto is the second largest city within Canada.

If being in the city for your entire getaway is not your cup of tea, then why not check out the Toronto Islands and the Waterfront. One of the most popular islands is Ward Island. It once was a very busy resort destination with small hotels, an amusement park, and the 10,000 seat baseball stadium which is most known for where Babe Ruth hit his first MLB home run!

Niagara Falls



80 miles south of Toronto is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Niagara Falls.  There are different areas of the falls which will no doubt amaze you.  Millions of Gallons of water fall every minute of every day.  They say it actually drops 750,000 gallons of water each second.   With breathtaking scenery, thrilling attractions, family-friendly and interactive exhibits, miles of hiking trails and  delicious dining options, Niagara Falls State Park gets you closer to the Falls than anywhere else. The park features classic adventures and vacation amenities to make the most of your trip. You want to make sure you take one of the boat rides on Maid of the Mist.  This will surely be the highlight of your trip.

Notre Dame Cathedral

If you’ve always wanted to travel to France, but didn’t really want to take a long flight or have the expense of one, you can always plan your vacation to the beautiful cities of Montreal and Quebec. Montreal is known for its culture. Being one of North America’s oldest cities, it has incredible historical sites like Lachine Canal, Old Montreal (a personal favorite),  and many historic museums like the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, not to mention some of the most spectacular Churches you will ever visit like St. Joseph Oratory and the Notre Dame Cathedral. No matter what time of the year you travel, Montreal has something to always keep you entertained. 

Combine your stay in Montreal with other areas of Quebec for a full adventure getaway.  There is so much to see and do in Quebec, no one will be bored. Visit one of its wilderness parks and see the natural wonders of the Chute Montmorency, the Rocher Perce, or the Saguenay Fjord. Swim, kayak, or go rafting in one of their numerous lakes and rivers. If you are there in the winter go snowboarding, skating, and skiing. The adventures are endless.  

Peggy's Cove
 

One of the most beautiful vacation spots in Canada is Nova Scotia.  Here you can take a step back in history and visit Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, explore Joggins Fossel Cliffs, take in the sites of their beautiful waterfront, or plan a visit to Peggy’s Cove and see the beautiful lighthouse that lights the shore for all the boats entering the harbor. Whether you visit one of the above sites or one of their many beaches along the coastline, you will not be disappointed. You will be pleasantly surprised what an amazing and memorable vacation you will have.

We hope you enjoyed your brief journey through the majestic country of Canada and hope you want to return. For more information on how you can experience more of what you just read, contact one of our North American Specialists at 866-720-5435 or via email at info@destinationsgalore.net