Canada might just be the most naturally beautiful country I have ever been to. With the friendliest people, an abundance of animals and outdoor activities for any season, you could never be bored. I could probably just insert a heap of pictures on this post and that would be enough to get you on Skyscanner searching for flights, but I thought I should share some personal thoughts on the land of maple syrup and grizzly bears.
In June 2014, I visited Canada with a friend. We traveled the west coast areas around Vancouver, Whistler, Calgary and the Canadian Rockies including Jasper National Park and Banff National Park. The Rockies are a breath of fresh air (literally) and will make you appreciate our natural world.
Here’s why you should be adding this area to your bucket list…
THE VIEWS
Enough said. Even driving throughout the countryside from Vancouver to Jasper, I was in awe of the views. Then when I arrived in the Jasper National Park, it was hard to believe my eyes. Driving the Icefields Parkway from Jasper to Banff is breathtaking and it is voted one of the most scenic drives in the world. Everywhere you turn is a Kodak moment.
THE PEOPLE
I know it sounds cliche but Canadians are some of the nicest people you could meet, even those unfortunately living on the street. Vancouver was a big shock for me with the number of homeless. Vancouver is the warmest major city in Canada which is the main reason they are there. I quickly realised that even the homeless people in this country were friendlier than I’d experienced in other countries. Some would keep to themselves, some would hold doors open for people for money and some made funny signs like the one pictured. The province of British Columbia has a law that homeless people may only ask people for money once, and they did seem to stick to it and graciously accept money or a ‘no’. Everyone I encountered was lovely. I even especially remember a lovely waitress in Jasper who gave us helpful advice about the area as well. The kindness of people can really make or break a trip.
THE LAKES LOOK FAKE
I didn’t think lakes could even have the kinds of colours I experienced in Canada. One of the most impressive was Peyto Lake (above), a lake so blue it looks like someone laid down a pool tarp over the entire thing. The photo does not do it justice and my jaw dropped so far when I first saw it.
BECAUSE THE GLACIERS WON’T BE AROUND FOREVER
Sadly, global warming is melting the beautiful glaciers seen throughout the Rockies and whilst the melting of snow and glaciers creates the beautiful hues of the lakes, its sad to see them disappear. The huge masses of ice have been around for hundreds of thousands of years and have even helped in creating the valleys through the Rockies as gravity pulls them downward causing erosive force.
THE ANIMALS
From bears to eagles, the wildlife in the area is exciting. Whilst driving through the Rocky Mountains you will see cars pulled over, taking photos of a bear, moose or dear. The teamwork between tourists is great to see, when drivers will let you know if there is something ahead. I counted 8 black bear sightings during my time in Canada, one female moose, one elk, a few deer, an eagle, multiple sheep/rams, many chipmunks and a weird rodent I’m still trying to figure out. A bear once walked right out in front of our bus on the Icefields Parkway and the moose to the right was just grazing beside the road (and ran away pretty quickly so that’s the best shot I got).
ENJOY NATURE
Go for a hike in the mountains, ride a bike around Stanley Park in Vancouver, ski or snowboard the amazing slopes or go canoe or kayaking on a lake or river. Get outside, get active and enjoy the incredible nature around you. But remember to leave no trace!
Think fun, think beautiful, think nature. Think Canada.
You won’t be disappointed.
For tips on how to plan your next trip check out my Travel Planning 101 Guide.
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