Tag: Canada

Unlocking the Secrets of Toronto

What makes a city truly great? Toronto, the largest and most diverse city in Canada, has a simple answer – diversity. With a population of 2.9 million residents representing over 250 ethnic groups and speaking more than 180 languages, Toronto proudly bears the motto “Diversity, Our Strength,” according to this travel blog article from Travel and Leisure. This incredible cultural mosaic has transformed the city, making it a vibrant, dynamic, and complex place that’s a must-visit for travelers seeking unique experiences.

In recent years, Toronto has experienced a transformation that has elevated its character and global reputation. The city has become a hub of creativity, innovation, and cultural prominence. From internationally acclaimed musicians like Drake and The Weeknd to unforgettable sports moments, such as the Toronto Raptors winning the 2019 NBA Championship, Toronto’s cool factor has skyrocketed. It’s a city with a newfound sense of self-confidence and identity.

But this shift isn’t just about pop culture and sports; it’s a sign of maturity driven by economic, intellectual, and educational development. Toronto is often referred to as the “Silicon Valley of the North” due to its growing technology industry and “Hollywood North” because of its thriving film and TV sector. The city’s food and beverage scene is also experiencing a renaissance, with local chefs and business owners drawing inspiration from the multicultural tapestry that surrounds them.

The Best Times to Explore Toronto

The best time to experience Toronto’s magic is during the warmer months, from late spring to mid-autumn. While winters can be cold, there are still plenty of indoor attractions to explore if you decide to visit during that season. In the spring and summer, Toronto comes alive with numerous festivals, events, and performances. Highlights include the Beaches International Jazz Festival, Toronto Caribbean Carnival (Caribana), Luminato, Toronto International Film Festival, and various delightful neighborhood events.

Winter activities are equally abundant in Toronto, with events like the Toronto Christmas Market, Toronto Light Festival, Winterlicious, and outdoor ice-skating in public spaces like The Bentway. This season is also an excellent time to visit the city’s world-class museums and galleries, which offer a range of indoor programs and activities for all ages.

Exploring Toronto’s Landmarks and Attractions

Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): The AGO is one of the largest art museums in North America, housing an impressive collection of 95,000 works. From classic masterpieces to contemporary sculptures, this museum is always on the cutting edge, making it a must-visit. Don’t miss the Infinity Mirrored Room by Yayoi Kusama.

Casa Loma: This mansion, built in 1914, is a heritage landmark that captures the richness and romanticism of Toronto’s history. Explore three floors filled with elegant European décor, historical artifacts, a classic car collection, and stunning gardens.

CN Tower: The iconic CN Tower offers a 360° birds’ eye view of the city. Daredevils can experience the EdgeWalk, strolling around the Tower’s main pod 1168 feet above ground.

Fort York National Historic Site: Known as the birthplace of Toronto, Fort York played a crucial role during the War of 1812. Visitors can explore the grounds year-round, witness cannon firings, and enjoy stunning views of the city skyline.

Toronto is a city with a rich and diverse cultural landscape, offering a multitude of experiences for travelers. From its world-class museums to vibrant street art, iconic landmarks, and a flourishing culinary scene, there’s something for every type of explorer. Whether you visit during the warmer months or embrace the winter chill, Toronto welcomes you with open arms. Prepare to be captivated by the magic of this extraordinary Canadian city.

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Visit Quebec City: Where History Comes to Life

Consider traveling to the charming city of Quebec City, where history and culture intertwine in a captivating tapestry that stretches back over four centuries. Nestled along the banks of the majestic St. Lawrence River, Quebec City is a living testament to Canada’s rich heritage, offering travelers a journey through time, picturesque streets, and a warm embrace of French-Canadian hospitality. In this blog post, we invite you to explore the cobblestone pathways of Old Quebec, savor the flavors of this gastronomic haven, and immerse yourself in a world where every corner tells a story, as per this travel blog from Travel + Leisure. So, grab your passport and embark on an enchanting adventure as we unveil the wonders of Quebec City.

Uncover Military History and Riverside Views

Artillery Park, featuring 18th-century French army barracks, is a must-visit for history buffs. Guides in period costumes bring history to life. To soak in some of the best views of Quebec City, hop on a commuter ferry across the St. Lawrence River. The journey provides unparalleled vistas, especially in the winter when ice blocks collide.

Maple Syrup Tasting and Live Entertainment

Maple syrup is a Quebecois staple, and tasting it is a must. Visit local markets and restaurants year-round to savor this liquid gold. In the summer, catch live performances at various venues throughout the city or indulge in folk music at bars de chansonniers.

Architectural Wonders and Island Adventures

The Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré shrine, the oldest pilgrimage site north of Mexico, beckons with its intricate architecture. Take a river shuttle from Old Quebec to explore this historical gem and its scenic surroundings. Ile d’Orléans, a charming island 15 minutes from Quebec City, is a haven for gourmands and history enthusiasts. Enjoy a day visiting wineries and sampling homemade jams, chocolates, and more.

Walking Through History in Old Quebec

Stepping back in time, we begin our journey on the east coast, in Quebec City. Quebec City is a slice of Europe in North America, with cobblestoned streets and a rich history. Our first recommendation is to take a walking tour of Old Quebec. Founded in 1608, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts historic charm and guided tours that reveal its fascinating past.

Discovering Petit-Champlain and Montmorency Falls

Next, we head to Quartier Petit Champlain. This 17th-century district is a picturesque snapshot of New France. Explore the oldest stone church north of Mexico and savor a coffee at Smith Cafe as you stroll along one of Canada’s most beautiful streets. Just a short drive from the city center, Montmorency Falls awaits. This majestic waterfall stands taller than Niagara Falls and offers thrilling activities like zip lines, suspension bridges, and cliffside boardwalks. Nature enthusiasts will be in their element here.

Picnic at the Plains of Abraham and Art at its Finest

For a relaxing break, head to the Plains of Abraham, a historic site that now serves as a sprawling urban park. Enjoy a gourmet picnic in the summer sun while taking in views of the river. Afterward, immerse yourself in art at the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec, where you can explore over 40,000 works from various centuries, including a remarkable collection of Inuit art.

History and Ice Adventure

Tour the Citadelle of Québec, one of the highest points in the city, offering insights into the city’s fortifications. The site often hosts seasonal events, so check the schedule before your visit. For a truly unique experience, head to Hôtel de Glace, a hotel made entirely of ice and snow. Open from January to March, it offers an unforgettable adventure with icy rooms, hot tubs, saunas, and even arctic-grade sleeping bags.

These are just a few of the incredible experiences awaiting you across the United States. From historical sites to natural wonders, Quebec City offers a diverse range of activities for every traveler.

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Traveling to Prince Edward Island

Many travelers are drawn to the Canadian landscape, with its lush green forests, coastlines, and wild west-like plains, but don’t know where to start. Consider the country’s smallest province, Prince Edward Island, because PEI is a beautiful vacation destination and province in Canada that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Luckily, this article from Travel + Leisure explains why traveling to Canada’s Prince Edward Island in the new year is the right decision for those seeking excitement, the comforts of home, and an effortless community.

Consider spending a day exploring Charlottetown, the island’s capital city. Many locals and visitors benefit from strolling through the downtown area, visiting the Confederation Centre of the Arts, or taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through Victoria Park.

If you love the outdoors, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Spend a day hiking through one of the many trails in PEI National Park. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, Prince Edward Island has plenty of trails to explore. With over 800 kilometers of coastline and countless parks and forests, there’s no shortage of places to get outside and enjoy the fresh air.

One of the most popular hiking trails on the island is the Confederation Trail, which spans over 430 kilometers and winds its way through some of PEI’s most beautiful scenery. If you’re looking for something shorter, there are plenty of other options to choose from. For those who love the beach, the Gulf Shore Parkway is a must-do. This scenic route runs along PEI’s north shore, offering stunning views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It’s also a great place to spot wildlife like seals, eagles, and ospreys.

Food lovers are sure to enjoy exploring all that PEI has to offer in terms of food and drink. Go on a culinary tour and sample some of the best local dishes. Or visit one of the many wineries or breweries for a tour and tasting. And be sure to stock up on some delicious PEI lobster. Consider taking a culinary tour of the island by including stops at these must-try PEI restaurants:

  1. The Dunes Cafe: Located in Cavendish, The Dunes Cafe is known for its lobster rolls and clam chowder. Be sure to try their PEI Mussels – they’re delicious!
  2. Blue Mussel Cafe: Another great spot for seafood lovers, Blue Mussel Cafe is located in Charlottetown. Their menu features fresh, local seafood dishes that are sure to please your taste buds.
  3. The Table Culinary Studio: This Charlottetown cooking school offers hands-on cooking classes led by experienced chefs. After your class, enjoy a meal featuring dishes you prepared yourself!

Lastly, there’s nothing quite like a road trip along the coast. And, when it comes to coastal drives, few places do it better than Prince Edward Island. This Canadian province is home to some of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, and, thanks to its small size, it’s easy to explore all of PEI’s coastline in just a few days.

  1. Stop at Cavendish Beach and enjoy the view. This is one of PEI’s most popular beaches for good reason. The sand is white and the water is crystal clear. Plus, there are plenty of beach amenities nearby if you need them.
  2. Drive up to North Cape Coastal Drive and take in the views. This stretch of highway offers incredible views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Be sure to stop at one of the many lookout points along the way so you can really soak it all in.
  3. Make your way to East Point by taking the Points East Coastal Drive and watch the waves crash against the rocks. East Point is PEI’s easternmost point and it offers stunning views of both New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. It’s also a great place to watch for migrating whales (from May to October).
  4. Trek along the Central Coast Drive to find the famous Green Gables Heritage House in Park Corner as well as the Green Gables Shore. This historic house was once home to Lucy Maud Montgomery, author of Anne of Green Gables, and the beaches, magnificent sand dunes, and trails of this area even inspired the novel Anne of Green Gables.

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Start the New Year atop this Magnificent Mountaintop in Québec

Each year during the winter months, many are inspired to escape to the mountains and bundle up in a ski lodge to enjoy the warm hearth, quiet atmosphere, and exhilarating slopes. Because this wintertime fantasy is shared by many travelers, it can often be tough to find a mountainside resort, lodge, or cabin that isn’t booked or crowded, but this feature from Travel + Leisure shines a light on  Le Massif de Charlevoix in Quebec, a lesser-known Canadian winter paradise.

It should be noted that recent COVID-19 surges may have caused new government restrictions, rules, and safety measures to have been set. Because of this, it’s always suggested that those who wish to travel check local guidelines for Quebec, consult CDC recommendations, and take personal health conditions into account before traveling. This way you’re more prepared to enjoy your trip while remaining as safe and responsible as possible in these unprecedented times.

Known for having the highest vertical drop east of the Canadian Rockies, housing some of the most accomplished names in Canadian cuisine, and welcoming guests to the first-ever Club Med resort in Canada that’s just opened on December 3rd, Québec’s Le Massif de Charlevoix is the perfect destination for travelers to experience adventure, comfort, and immense satisfaction. Le Massif de Charlevoix is located just one hour outside of Quebec City, and it houses over 400 skiable acres above the truly unforgettable sight of the St. Lawrence River, which is viewable from nearly every run.

As previously mentioned, the latest addition to the area that has been making quite a name for itself is the all-inclusive experience to be had at the country’s first Club Med resort, which is located just an hour and a half outside of Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport in the charming Charlevoix region. Being all-inclusive, this resort includes accommodations, food and drink, activities, and more as part of your booked nightly rate, thus allowing you to truly relax and forget about the finer details once you step foot on its campus. Outside of Club Med Québec, you might want to reserve a small home at Les Refuges so that you can share a warm fireplace and fully-equipped kitchen with a group of four to six people in between your treks out onto the various slopes.

For those sledding, skiing, and snowboarding enthusiasts, Le Massif de Charlevoix offers one of the most bountiful environments for both the beginner and the advanced winter enthusiast. Though if you’re a thrill-seeker, you’ll be pleased to hear that the mountain offers more than 9 miles of skiable and rideable terrain outside of the traditional ski area boundary (known as backcountry), and it’s the perfect environment for those who enjoy alpine hiking, touring, and splitboarding. After it’s all said and done, however, one of the largest attractions on the mountain is the classic 4.6-mile sledding run that allows you to see the mountain like you never have before. Additionally, the traditionally sledding run is also accessible at night, providing you with an unmatched, exhilarating experience that’s sure to get your adrenaline pumping.

Lastly, one of the most bountiful treasures of Québec’s Le Massif de Charlevoix’s collections of inspirational Canadian cuisine that can be enjoyed on and off the mountain. If you’re taking a break from the slopes, Restauration Summit Chalet is located on the mountain and it’s the first and last name in hearty, herbal sandwiches and soups that will satiate and satisfy your hunger like no other restaurant. Also recommended in the area is the smoked meat poutine offered at Le Saint-Pub-Microbrasserie Charlevoix.

In speaking on the luxuries that this destination has to offer, the communication and marketing director for Le Massif, Maude Barrette Desjardins, said “You have to understand, when you come to Le Massif, as soon as you enter the road, you feel at that instant that you are traveling, you are elsewhere. There’s something really unique — you feel like you’re in a dream at every run.”

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Canada: Newfoundland and Labrador

Travel+Leisure has a Canada Travel Guide that you won’t want to miss!

We focus in this blog on the areas of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The second largest country in the world, Canada offers a vast variety of activities for travelers that want to vacation in the area. With a climate that varies from offering four distinct seasons to areas that are fairly hot or intensely cold, it is almost a one stop shop in terms of vacation planning.

Located to the far east of Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador is the combination province of the mainland, Labrador, and the island of Newfoundland. The province proudly calls itself home to the oldest settlements and cities in North America. Home to approximately half a million people, Newfoundland and Labrador is one of the must visit vacation destinations in Canada.

Things To Do in Canada

Iceberg Viewing:

When visiting Newfoundland and Labrador, iceberg viewing is definitely a must. Even on a sunny day, 10,000-year-old icebergs can be seen along the northern and eastern coasts. The main location to spot the ice giants isIceberg Alley, which spans from the coast of Labrador to the southeast coast of Newfoundland. The best ways to watch icebergs is by boat tour or kayak.

Hiking:

There are approximately 29,000 kilometers (18,000 miles) of coastline that can be explored. This includes beaches, sea stacks, and around 300 hiking and walking trails. It also is not uncommon to spot seabirds, whales, and icebergs on these adventures. Must visits are Green Gardens and Burnt Hill, both in Gros Morne National Park, and the East Coast Trail. Check out this link for the best hiking trails.

Places To Eat in Canada

Raymond’s Restaurant:

Raymond’s Restaurant debuted in 2011 and is operated out of a building dating back to 1915. A classic example of architecture in the area, the restaurant is also named after the grandfather of the head chef and the father of the sommelier- both of which were named Raymond.

The restaurant gets all of its ingredients locally, which includes the fresh seafood that is always served. Canada has wonderful fresh ingredients. While the menu changes regularly, there are certain staples that one can try at any point during the year such as roasted Quebec duck with savory duck sausage or smoked pork shoulder.

Java Jack’s Restaurant and Gallery:

Java Jack’s is located directly in the center of Gros Morne National Park in Canada. Java Jack’s began as a cafe in 2000 but became increasingly popular and, in 2003, opened a restaurant in the upstairs portion of their building. They serve fresh fish and seafood, wild game, and even offer vegetarian options. All of the restaurant’s vegetables are completely organic and grown in a large garden behind the building. They also grow flowers to place upstairs in the restaurant dining room and downstairs in the cafe.

Newfoundland and Labrador is undoubtedly an underrated travel destination. With its own rich culture in one of the largest countries in the world, it still manages to offer a unique experience unmatched by other parts of Canada.

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