Canada - Travel Guide
Description
A gigantic 3.8 million square miles with only 32 million inhabitants, Canada is approximately 10x the size of Turkey with half the population! To get an idea of the vastness, it is the second largest country in the world in terms of its land area but Canada has a very low population density. This is partly due to its climate and mainly due to its geography. Barren in the North, with Arctic lowlands and a polar climate, mountainous in the West, with the Great Lakes forming part of its border with the U.S.A., almost 90% of Canada's population live within 200km of the U.S. border, many of these have settled in and around the larger cities of Toronto, Ottawa and Vancouver.
Western Canada's climate is milder than the snowier north and east, but with a heavier rainfall all year, particularly near the mountains and lakes. The fertile plains near Ontario are where some of Canada's finest wines are produced and the country is proud of its traditional and international cuisine, available in all major towns and cities.
Canada is perhaps best known for its snow, (some of the best skiing and snowboarding sites can be found in Alberta and British Columbia, but in winter, almost everywhere is transformed into a snow-lover's dream) ice sculptures and technological affluence yet it is also recognised as a truly multicultural country.
Quebec, with its French-speaking residents and unique culture, is only one of the high points of a visit to Canada. Shopping is a must in the larger cities, nightlife abounds and Toronto's villages are bursting with Victorian architecture. There is so much to see in this vast, breathtakingly beautiful country that you better make sure that you stay for a while.
Driving Guide
When visiting Canada, there are two things to look out for - animals and inclement weather! Deer, elk and moose are abundant in the rural districts, so drive carefully. Remember that these animals rarely roam alone, so look out for others. Winters in Canada can be severe, so when travelling make sure you listen for weather forecasts and be prepared: keep the petrol tank at least half full and take warm clothing, food and drink. Some roads and bridges are closed during bad weather. Maximum speed limits in Canada are: 50km/h in cities; 80km/h on highways; and 100km/h on rural highways. Some road signs (especially in Quebec) will be in French. Seat-belts must be used by all occupants, and children weighing less than 40 pounds should be in an approved restraining seat. Note that some provinces require drivers to keep their headlights on during the day. The Canadian Automobile Association reports that there is a high incidence of drivers running red lights; so, even on green, please proceed with caution. Traffic offences in cities are subject to heavy fines - this includes not stopping completely at red traffic lights and parking too near intersections and fire/water hydrants, as well as speeding. Do NOT drink and drive.