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Favorite Canadian Cities Across the Provinces

Canada is considered one of the world’s most livable countries – and for all the right reasons. Besides its expanse of extraordinary natural beauty from coast to coast, it also has lively cosmopolitan cities that are clean, safe and friendly. Diversity is a word that perfectly describes this country. Canada is a land of immigrants with a policy encouraging these differences. With this diversity come urban areas that feature a wonderful mix of cultures, exciting ethnic neighborhoods, and restaurants and shops that go along with this. Explore Canada’sgreat cities and discover the architectural feats, historic sites and world-class cultural institutions that make them so unique.

Multicultural Toronto (Ontario)
As the center of culture, commerce and communications in Canada, Toronto is sometimes mistaken for the nation’s capital, which is actually Ottawa. Toronto is a beautiful and well-organized city with a colorful ethnic mix and rich history. While Toronto is best known for its International Film Festival, the CN Tower, the world’s tallest freestanding structure, and its major sports teams, including the Blue Jays and Maple Leafs, there are so many more opportunities to discover the vibrancy of this city. A special event that is fast approaching is the Toronto International Art Fair from October 22-26, 2009. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Art Toronto brings the entire contemporary Canadian art world together, showcasing its artists, collectors, gallery owners and curators. Or perhaps the Caribana festival, Toronto’s biggest cultural attraction, is more your speed. In July and August, the rhythms of calypso and steel-pan bands pulse through the city celebrating its Caribbean community. For a ‘taste’ of a different kind of festival, visit Kensington Market. This lively neighborhood near Chinatown is like no other market in the world, displaying ethnic offerings from literally all over the globe.

Old World Charm in Quebec City (Quebec)
A visit to Quebec City transports you immediately. With its 400-year-old rich history and French being the prevalent language spoken, it still remains very European in feel. The Old Town has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its well-preserved 17th–century architecture, cobblestoned streets, fortress walls and cafés. Explore the Upper Town’s cannons at La Citadelle or walk the ramparts along the mighty St. Lawrence River. Stroll the Lower Town and discover its art galleries, boutique hotels and the dynamic Musée de la Civilisation. Stop at a creperie or sample a local brew at one of its many cafés. Quebec City is a great destination in any season. Winter brings its famous Winter Carnival with ice skating and skiing at nearby Mont-Ste. Anne. Summer offers big names in music at its Summer Festival or perhaps whale-watching in the nearby picturesque Charlevoix region. Just outside the city are the impressive Montmorency Falls, which are higher than Niagara, and Ile d’Orleans, a bucolic island where you can pick fresh fruit from farms or see maple syrup being harvested. For accommodations, you may choose the old world charm of the landmark Chateau Frontenac overlooking the St. Lawrence. Or you may prefer the Hotel Pur in the trendy St.-Roch neighborhood with all the modern amenities you could ask for and panoramic views of downtown Quebec.

Get Natural Beauty & The Arts in Vancouver (British Columbia)
Warmed by the Pacific Ocean currents and protected by mountains, Vancouver is surely a year-round destination. Within this spectacular setting lies a vibrant city like no other. While providing the perfect surroundings for hiking, skiing, kayaking, cycling, and sailing, it is also at the center of a lively arts scene and world-famous cuisine. Stanley Park is quintessential Vancouver with its natural beauty and picturesque views. Perhaps take a mini-ferry ride to Granville Island’s Public Market, check out the crafts stores and have lunch by the water. The Kitsilano beaches offer a magnificent array of coastlines. Don’t miss Gastown’s cobbled streets and antique shops, or chic Yaletown, home to some of the city’s finest culinary hot spots. Or enjoy delicious, well-priced ethnic food as part of Vancouver’s unique make-up. The Museum of Anthropology is a must-see with its phenomenal collection of art and cultural artifacts, as is the famed Aquarium. Vancouver is also home to the 2010 Winter Games, an international sporting event.


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