Country: Canada
Where is it?: Northern North America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean on the east, North Pacific Ocean on the west, and the Arctic Ocean on the north, north of the conterminous US
Why do people go here?: It’s close to the States, but easier to get a visa and part of the Commonwealth. There’s also fantastic nature, thriving metropolis and cosmopolitan cities, and a unique blend of French and English with large populations speaking other languages crammed inbetween.
What are the main entry points?: Drive across the border (or bus, or train) to Montreal, Toronto or Vancouver. Flying into these cities (and other areas) are also options.
Currency used: Canadian dollar (CAD)
Country Code: 1
Area codes for Major Cities:
Other Phone Tips:
Religion: Roman Catholic 46%, Protestant 36%, other 18%
Population: 32507874
Ethnic Breakdown: British Isles origin 28%, French origin 23%, other European 15%, Amerindian 2%, other, mostly Asian, African, Arab 6%, mixed background 26%
Government: Confederation with parliamentary democracy
Languages: English 59.3% (official), French 23.2% (official), other 17.5%
Major Cities: Ottawa, Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal
Attractions: Vancouver, Nature, Skiing
Accommodation: http://www.bootsnall.com/hostels/can/, http://www.cheaphotellinks.com/can/
Tourism Office locations and links: Canadian Tourism Commission 235 Queen St. Ottawa, ON K1A 0H6 +1-613-954-3852;;FAX +1-613-954-3988; //www.visions.com/tour.html
Off-the-Beaten-Path:
Health Issues: No vaccination requirements for any international traveller.
When to go: Shoulder seasons are best, although summertime offers both more open attractions and tourists. Avoid the winter months unless you like the cold or plan on doing some extensive sport in the snow.
Common Phrases:
Specific Events/Holidays: Canada Day, 1 July (1867)
Getting Around: Buses and trains connect more major areas. You’ll need to hire to car to get to very remote areas, however.
Good to know:
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