Canada Tours & Holidays

Canada’s aboriginal communities reside across the country, with the people of the First Nations and the Inuit in the north calling parts of Canada home. Like many indigenous peoples around the world, First Nations communities in Canada have an ongoing struggle to retain and protect their customs and way of life. Modern influences have had adverse impacts on their culture and lifestyle, yet many still actively live and promote a traditional way of life through tribal music, handicrafts, art and clothing.

Anyone who has been to Canada will know that some aspects of the Canadian stereotype are actually very accurate. Well known for being welcoming, friendly, funny and adventure-loving, Canadians generally do a good job of living up to their reputation. Large cities like Vancouver are proudly multicultural, and attitudes towards different ways of life are generally quite liberal. This is reflected in the variety of cuisines, shops and people that occupy the city. Urban and rural residents alike typically remain active and love the outdoors. Hiking, cycling, canoeing and snowboarding are all popular pastimes across the country.

Canada’s eastern reaches have a decidedly different quality to the west coast and retain much of their colonial heritage. The French-Canadian language, often called Quebecois, is widely spoken and French-influenced food and music are very popular. Canada’s aboriginal communities reside across the country, with the people of the First Nations and the Inuit in the north calling parts of Canada home. Like many indigenous peoples around the world, First Nations communities in Canada have an ongoing struggle to retain and protect their customs and way of life. Modern influences have had adverse impacts on their culture and lifestyle, yet many still actively live and promote a traditional way of life through tribal music, handicrafts, art and clothing.

Anyone who has been to Canada will know that some aspects of the Canadian stereotype are actually very accurate. Well known for being welcoming, friendly, funny and adventure-loving, Canadians generally do a good job of living up to their reputation. Large cities like Vancouver are proudly multicultural and attitudes towards different ways of life are generally quite liberal. This is reflected in the variety of cuisines, shops and people that occupy the city. Urban and rural residents alike typically remain active and love the outdoors. Hiking, cycling, canoeing and snowboarding are all popular pastimes across the country.

Canada’s eastern reaches have a decidedly different quality to the west coast and retain much of their colonial heritage. The French-Canadian language, often called Quebecois, is widely spoken and French-influenced food and music are very popular.

The First Nations

It’s widely accepted that humans first settled in the area that is now Canada around 15,000 years ago, after travelling from what is now known as Russian Siberia. Russia and Northern America are thought to have once been connected by a land bridge until rising sea levels created the Bering Strait. Canada’s first inhabitants were likely hunter-gatherers, and it’s also widely agreed that in around 2500 BC, a second major wave of migration from Siberia brought the ancestors of the Inuit to Canada. In around 1000 BC, Thule communities from Alaska began travelling east into the Canadian Arctic.

By the late 15th century (around the time of European colonisation), indigenous communities had spread beyond the Arctic regions to four main areas – the Pacific, the plains (now south-central Canada), the southern Ontario/St Lawrence River area, and the northeast woodlands.

Colonisation

Both France and Britain competed fiercely for Canadian territory as colonists searched for mineral riches before establishing a lucrative fur trade. Many First Nations communities were displaced during this period and suffered from food and land shortages. The Treaty of Paris was signed in 1763 after hundreds of years of fighting, officially making Canada a British territory.

Bringing the territories together

Britain appointed governors across Canada to head up each colony, much to the French-speaking territories’ distress. The British North America Act was passed in 1867 and Canada became a self-governing state with a new set of rules. It was an improvement, but still not accepted by all. The priority was to gather all colonies under this one confederation. The iconic ‘Mounties’ were established to bring law and order to the ‘wild west’, which itself created conflict, especially with threatened First Nations peoples. In 1931 Canada was granted relative independence from the British Empire, giving it full legal autonomy and equal standing with England and other Commonwealth countries.

Independence and First Nations' progress

Canada's indigenous communities struggled through the 20th century and were only granted the right to vote in 1960. As discrimination and land rights tensions grew, a Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples called for a complete overhaul of government relations with the Indigenous population. An official Statement of Reconciliation from the Ministry of Indian and Northern Affairs was issued in 1998, which accepted responsibility for past injustices towards indigenous peoples. To this day, progress is still being made towards proper recognition and reconciliation of indigenous peoples in Canada.

Today

Canada is still a member of the Commonwealth but the British monarch retains a purely ceremonial role. The country continues to flourish, with immigration from Europe and Asia leading to increased multiculturalism – more than 20% of Canada’s population was born overseas – while a resource boom has strengthened the economy. Canada is becoming increasingly known as a liberal, tolerant nation thanks to legalised marijuana use, same-sex marriage, universal health care and some of the most liveable cities in the world.

1. Canadian Rockies

It’s picture-perfect moments that encapsulate Banff National Park and beyond. Canoe on Lake Louise, take a dog-sledding adventure through Kananaskis Country, learn ice hockey from the pros in Canmore and take a hike or ice walk through Alberta

2. Jasper National Park

This section of Canada’s wilderness definitely deserves its worldwide acclaim. Discover the seasonal moods of Maligne Lake, hike to the toe of Athabasca glacier, spot a moose or black bear and get a bird’s-eye view from the scenic Skytram.

3. Sun Peaks

For a next-level Canadian experience, travellers in the know head to Sun Peaks. See this neck of the woods as the 18th-century fur traders did with a canoe trip on Lake McGillivray followed by a hearty four-course meal, all in the style of the 'Voyageurs'.

4. Vancouver

With mountain views from downtown and the perfect summers for strolling along the foreshore, Vancouver has the liveable west-coast vibes most cities dream of. Get among the hip bars in Gastown and hike through the parklands, which are rich in First Nations history.

5. Peace River

You can’t just look around to see Canada’s best – you’ve got to look up. After some ice fishing, take your winter adventure up a notch and discover the dazzling natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights in Peace River.

6. Nova Scotia

Canada's maritime region should really be as famed as its interior parks and cities. One look at the charming seaside villages, UNESCO World Heritage sites and jaw-dropping landscapes will have you planning your next trip back.

7. Newfoundland

A geographic wonderland, the Newfoundland region boasts scenery fit for being the most northeasterly point with maritime mammals, sheer cliffs and the odd iceberg floating by.

Oh Canada, what a wondrous country of seasonal beauty and welcoming people. But what’s the food like? Well, you’re in luck – Canada has all the hearty, comforting and sweet food you’ll need at any time of the year.

Things to eat in Canada

1. Poutine

It’s a national treasure – French fries topped with a gloriously messy mix of gravy and cheese curds. There’s a range of combinations with different meats, chips and sauces, all classed as ‘poutine’ (or more generally, ‘loaded fries’). All in all, it’s the perfect hangover cure.

2. Seafood

Vancouver is known for having one of the best restaurant scenes in the world and seafood is almost always on the menu. Feast on a fresh seafood banquet, try some inventive fusion cuisine or grab a chowder for a quick bite.

3. Maple syrup

It comes as no surprise that maple syrup is super popular in Canada. Be sure to dose up your pancakes and include a side of bacon, just like the locals.

4. Beaver tails

No, they don't come from an actual beaver. Beaver tails are a stretched, fried dough – almost like a doughnut pizza – known as a bannock, topped with all kinds of sweet things, including cinnamon sugar, Nutella, banana, s’mores and more.

5. Nanaimo bars

Named after its birthplace – the city of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island – this bar consists of three layers: a wafer, nut and coconut crumb base, flavoured custard in the middle, and a chocolate ganache to top it off.

6. Butter tarts

You may have realised by now that Canada is full of sweet treats, but how about trying an indulgent butter tart? It’s a sweet pastry shell baked with a filling of butter, sugar, syrup and egg – everything in moderation, right?

7. Boutique beer

The last few years have seen microbreweries pop up all over Canada. Whether you visit a microbrewery that brews chocolate-flavoured beer or dine at a restaurant with a local beer menu, a Canadian boutique beer is definitely worth trying.

8. Caesar cocktail

If beer isn’t your thing, what about Canada’s version of a Bloody Mary? Combine vodka, clamato juice, hot sauce and lime for a unique briny flavour. Throw in a stalk of celery and you’re set – don’t knock it ‘til you try it!

Read more about foods to try in Canada

Canada is big. And we mean huge. This may seem obvious when looking at a map, but you really feel it when you're out there road-tripping. With such a large land mass, it comes as no surprise that the environment varies depending on which area of Canada you are travelling in.

Sitting between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, Canada shares a long land border with the United States in the south and Alaska (US) and Greenland in the north. Mountains, forests and woodlands can be found throughout the country, with relatively flat, arable plains dotted around too. There’s a lot of ice and tundra in the Arctic North. The country’s unique geography is one of the many reasons that this country is so well-travelled and loved by tourists, but this can pose a risk, notably for drivers. Microclimates along mountain passes, like the Glacier National Park between BC and Alberta, are known for notorious weather conditions. Towns on either side can appear clear and calm, while the national park itself is in the middle of a snowstorm.

Canada’s cities are widespread, well-populated and built-up, though not overly crowded. Expect skyscrapers, malls, the odd traffic jam and all the modern conveniences. Smaller communities exist in more remote areas, with quaint villages on both coasts relying on fishing, tourism and agriculture as main sources of income. Expect a slower pace of life and much less buzz than in the city.

Outdoor experiences

Majestic mountains

The Rocky Mountains of Canada are famous for a reason – their imposing and rugged beauty is unforgettable. Take in the epic landscapes while hiking, and don't forget to keep a camera handy to capture the best panoramas.

Sensational 'snowscapades'

Make the most of Canada's abundance of snow by getting out there in winter and having some fun. Start a snowball fight (preferably not with strangers), make some snow angels and channel your inner child.

Animal encounters

Keep watch for deer, bears, moose, caribou, mountain goats, bald eagles and timber wolves while hiking through the wilds of Jasper National Park in Alberta. Seeing grizzly and black bears in their natural habitat will take your breath away.

Giant glaciers

Be astounded by the immense size and beauty of Canada's gigantic glaciers. Take a thrilling ride on an ice mobile to experience things up close, or perhaps opt for a hike to the toe of the mighty Athabasca glacier.

Canada may be home to the largest mall in the Americas (West Edmonton Mall), but the shopping experience certainly doesn't end there. The diversity of Canada's population is reflected in the eclectic mix of boutique stores stocking unique artisan wares, modern art and more.

Major cities like Vancouver have an abundance of interesting boutiques, galleries and market-style centres like Granville Island. Smaller towns are great for locally produced gourmet food, wine and quirky kitsch souvenirs. The Chinatown areas of major Canadian cities offer a great shopping experience with good markets and cheap eats.

Canada’s federal goods and services tax (GST) adds 5 per cent to most transactions and most provinces also charge an additional tax to have a combined harmonised sales tax (HST), usually around 10–15 per cent in total. Expect most, if not all, products to have this already included in the marked price.

It's also a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand have particularly strict quarantine laws.

Canada knows how to put on a show, be it in nature or the cities. Depending on the time of the year, these are some of the festivals and events you can expect to come across:

Calgary Stampede

This 10-day hoedown features rodeos, parades, barbecues and more cowboy hats than you can poke a stick at. The locals call it the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth and it has been running in Calgary, Alberta, since 1912.

Montreal International Jazz Festival

Swap your boot scootin’ for some toe-tapping as more than 3000 performers from over 30 nations entertain millions during this annual celebration of jazz. Over 2500 kilograms of French fries are consumed each year, which is fitting given Montreal is the hub of French-speaking Canada.

Vancouver Festival of Light

This dazzling display of fireworks is not to be missed. Technicians gather from across the world to compete and put on the best and most engaging display. It’s the longest-running offshore fireworks competition in the world.

Canada Day

You'll know that it's Canada Day, no matter where you are in Canada. The locals celebrate this national holiday with parades, fireworks, parties, concerts and barbecues, so be sure to get into the maple-leaf spirit.

Winterlude

If you find yourself in Ottawa or greater Ontario in early February, chances are there’ll be a winter festival like Winterlude happening. Canada’s capital turns into a majestic winter wonderland and the focal point is Rideau Canal, which turns into the world’s largest skating rink at 7.8 kilometres long.

Quebec Winter Carnival

This festival even has its own mascot – a giant, tuque-wearing snow figure called Bonhomme Carnaval – who embodies the ‘joie de vivre’ (or ‘joy of living’) during winter. Come for Bonhomme and stay for parades, snow sculptures, ice skating and more.

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

• Victoria Day

• Canada Day

• Labour Day

• Thanksgiving Day

• Remembrance Day

Please note dates of Canada's public holidays may vary.

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Canada adventure, check out these books:

• Anne of Green Gables – Lucy Maud Montgomery
• Cat’s Eye – Margaret Atwood
• Island – Alistair MacLeod
• Sacre Bleus: An Unsentimental Journey Through Quebec – Taras Grescoe
• Consolation – Michael Redhill
• The Golden Spruce: A True Story of Myth, Madness, and Greed – John Vaillant
• The Vancouver Stories: West Coast Fiction from Canada’s Best Writers – Intro by Douglas Coupland
• Burden of desire – Robert MacNeil

Inspired by Canada and looking for similar destinations? Here are some neighbouring and not-so-neighbouring countries to consider.

Australia

• Australia tours

Sweden

• Sweden tours

The United States

• United States tours
• Canada or Alaska? Which natural wonderland should you travel to next?