Some of us are programmed to explore, others are programmed to dream. Regardless of which category you fall into, there is a whole world out there just waiting to be discovered.
Her.ie’s new weekly travel guide brings you to some of the most inspiring places in the world and dares you to turn those dreams into an adventure of a lifetime.
As the saying goes, ‘home is where your passport is’ – so where will your passport end up next?
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A country of this size cannot possibly be condensed into just a few hundred words so instead this week, we are going to take you on a whirlwind stop of all the major sights that should entice you to stay on and discover more in Canada.
Toronto
People are drawn to Toronto in the same way millions flock to New York City every year. From brilliant shopping to fabulous restaurants, Toronto has everything your heart desires – and more.
Handy hint: Make sure to visit the CN Tower and Toronto Islands – and be sure to pay a trip to the zoo, an absolute must.
Montréal
Considered by many to be the cultural capital of Canada, Montréal will leave you awestruck. The cosmopolitan vibe combined with the old-style streets with horse-drawn carriages is intoxicating.
Handy hint: Check out Old Montréal, visit the Basilique Notre-Dame, the Plateau Mont-Royal and Montréal Botanical Gardens.
Québec City
The fortified city of Québec is a must-stop when you are in Canada. Explore the Citadel, splurge on some mouth watering food and head for afternoon tea at the Chateau Frontenac.
Handy hint: Be sure to visit Vieux-Québec and Montmorency Falls Park.
Vancouver
Once called ‘Gastown’, Vancouver is the home of laid-back locals, brilliant night life and impressive views. Take in the forests, parks, suspension bridge and all the fantastic shops and museums.
Handy hint: Pretend you’re in the Olympics by reliving the 2010 Winter Games and head to the Olympic Cauldron. Visit the outdoor markets, and head to Stanley Park and Granville Island.
Victoria
Wind your way through the streets of Victoria, take in the tearooms, galleries and antique shops that will keep you enthralled. With a youthful and eccletic feel, Victoria is all about the coffee bars and discovering gems of restaurants.
Handy hint: Rent out a bike and take a leisurely journey through Victoria.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Park the car and explore Halifax on foot. Immerse yourself in the town’s rich history and sample some amazing food.
Handy hint: Be sure to check out the Citadel National Historic Site and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.
Ottawa
Situated in northeast Ontario, Canada’s capital is vibrant, friendly and more than a little bit cool.
Handy hint: Take a trip to the Rideau Canal, Parliament Hill and the ByWard Market.
Canadian Rockies
One of our favourite spots to begin a discovery of the Rocky Mountains has to be Banff, nestled at the heart of the Rockies. Spend your days skiing down Mount Norquay, or hike up to the free-standing pillars known as Hoodoos.
Handy hint: After all that activity, be sure to book yourself into a cozy resort nearby.
Nigara Falls
One of the destinations in the world, Niagara Falls never fails to amaze and are a must-stop on a trip to Canada. There are action-packed activities to do nearby, and nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake is nestled in the heart of Canada’s wine country
Handy hint: Book a white-water adventure nearby the Niagara Falls or hop on the Maid of the Mist to get drenched by the spray.
Whistler
A short trip away from Vancouver, once you go to Whistler you won’t want to leave. An unforgettable visit will be focused on a holiday packed with skiing, snowboarding and hiking.
Handy hint: From festivals to spas combined with a hopping nightlife, Whistler is truly one of the best places in the world.
Tofino
Had enough wandering around towns and cities? Fancy some chill out time on the coast? Well, that’s what Tofino offers and for all you surfer dudes out there, it’s the best place for surfing, Canadian style .
Handy hint: Check into a local inn and have an unbelievable view of the surrounding scenery regardless of the weather.
