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Destination : CANADA

Is Canada more than maple trees ? It sure is. The majority of travelers are attracted by the opportunity to explore Canada's wilderness areas, natural wonders and low-key rural charm, but there is a lot more to Canada than maple trees, Niagara Falls and wide open spaces. Also, few countries in the world offer as many choices to the world traveler as Canada. Whether your passion is skiing, sailing, museum-combing or indulging in exceptional cuisine, Canada has it all. A land of vast distances and rich natural resources, Canada became a self-governing dominion in 1867 while retaining ties to the British crown. Economically and technologically the nation has developed in parallel with the US, its neighbor to the south across an unfortified border. Its paramount political problem continues to be the relationship of the province of Quebec, with its French-speaking residents and unique culture, to the remainder of the country. The Capital of Canada is Ottawa.
The estimated population in July 2000 was 31,281,092 people. The ethnic origin of the Canadians can be subdivided like this : British Isles origin 28%, French origin 23%, other European 15%, Amerindian 2%, other, mostly Asian, African, Arab 6%, mixed background 26%. The main religions are : Roman Catholic 42%, Protestant 40%, other 18%. As most will now, Canada is divided in two language zones : English 59.3% (official), French 23.2% (official), other 17.5% . Canada is a complex country made up of different influences : the French and British traditions, the own Canadian indigenous culture and a constant infusion of US culture and a plethora of traditions brought from Europe, Asia and Latin America by migrants. This results in a thriving multi-cultural society very much in the process of forming its own identity. Those expecting Canada to be a blander counterpart of its southern neighbor should check their preconceptions at the door - Canada's wild northern frontier, which has etched itself into the national psyche, and its distinct patchwork of peoples have created a country that is decidedly different to that of the USA.
As an affluent, high-tech industrial society, Canada today closely resembles the US in its market-oriented economic system, pattern of production, and high living standards. Since World War II, the impressive growth of the manufacturing, mining, and service sectors has transformed the nation from a largely rural economy into one primarily industrial and urban. Real rates of growth have averaged nearly 3.0% since 1993. Unemployment is falling and government budget surpluses are being partially devoted to reducing the large public sector debt. Two shadows loom, the first being the continuing constitutional impasse between English- and French-speaking areas, which has been raising the possibility of a split in the federation. Another long-term concern is the flow south to the US of professional persons lured by higher pay, lower taxes, and the immense high-tech infrastructure.

Not only is there a contrast in language, but also in landscape and identity. The western part of Canada is renowned for its stunningly beautiful countryside. Stroll through Vancouver's Stanley Park, overlooking the blue waters of English Bay or ski the slopes of world-famous Whistler-Blackcomb, surrounded by thousands of hectares of pristine forestland. For a cultural experience, you can take an Aboriginal nature hike to learn about Canada's First Nations' history and cuisine, while outdoorsmen can river-raft, hike or heli-ski the thousands of kilometers of Canada's backcountry, where the memories of gold prospectors and pioneers still flourish today.

The flavor and charm of Europe is mixed with the trendiness of New York in the eastern part of Canada.. Toronto boasts an irresistible array of ethnic restaurants, bakeries and shops , while Charlottetown, Canada's birthplace, is located amidst the rolling fields and sandy Atlantic beaches of Prince Edward Island. Between the two, ancient Quebec City is a world unto itself: the oldest standing citadel in North America and the heart of Quebecois hospitality. And let's not forget : the French charm of the mighty city of Montreal.