Photo by Flickr User qmnonic

Coach tours of Canada’s Atlantic coast, including Newfoundland, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, take in sleepy towns and villages scattered throughout idyllic countryside. The Atlantic provinces have a rich fishing tradition and its fruits are available at every stop. Nova Scotia in particular, surrounded by waters teeming with salmon, lobster and scallops, offers world-famous seafood cuisine in almost every pub and restaurant on the island. When tours stop for the night, it’s worth taking local advice to find a memorable place to eat.

French heritage is an important part of Canadian identity and Quebec, the largest province, wears it proudly. From Quebec City’s fortified ramparts and 19th century Parliament building to Montreal’s Museum of Fine Arts and Old Port, the province is rich with Gallic influence. Further west, to Ontario, the spectacular Niagara Falls feeds the massive Lake Ontario and draws millions of tourists each year. The falls are a powerful sight – and a must-see for visitors travelling through the province.

Out west, Alberta and British Columbia’s beautiful national parks and the Canadian Rockies are the setting for dramatic rail tours, winding through steep mountain canyons and towering snow-capped peaks. Banff is a hugely popular resort town and it’s easy to see why: the surrounding mountains are stunning and hide dozens of beauty spots – like Lake Louise and the famous hot springs. Alberta is authentic ‘cowboy country’ and its rail routes promise spectacular landscapes untouched by the modern world.

British Columbia’s Pacific coast boasts its own variety of memorable experiences. Ocean cruises take visitors from the modern, metropolitan Vancouver, out to the Pacific – and north, to the Alaskan passages – where majestic walls of ice and incredible blue waters create striking natural vistas. Whales and dolphins tailing cruise ships are a common sight – and it’s hard not to be impressed by the drama of the natural world, right before your eyes.

While you can’t expect to fit everything into one trip, Titan Travel’s Canadian tours reflect the sheer diversity of experiences on offer across the country. From sweeping mountain landscapes, to bustling modern cities, how you explore Canada is entirely up to you.

Photo by Flickr User HBarrison

Bring The Right Clothes For the Climate

The weather in Canada can be very extreme. Those travelling during the popular summer months need to be cautioned that temperatures can reach 80+ Fahrenheit with high humidity. Similarly, winter in the country often brings snowstorms and freezing temperatures. Some visitors may have to invest in a new wardrobe, as the climate is unlike many other countries. A trip to Canada may require a clothing shopping spree on credit cards beforehand, in preparation for the country’s scorching summer or chilly winter. Always check ahead to see what the weather will be like and pack appropriate clothing.

It is worth considering that it may be easier to buy heavy jackets and coats for the winter while in Canada, as snow gear is bulky to carry in the luggage both ways. Many of the big Canadian department stores accept international credit cards, so you won’t necessarily have to bring extra cash for the purchases. Paying purchases with your credit card can be extremely beneficial as you can earn air miles points on every dollar you spend on your card. An American Express air miles credit card can often earn you rewards on your spending, redeemable against travel, shopping or entertainment.

Prepare For Adventure

If you’re planning to enjoy some of the great outdoors, Canada is simply unbeatable in its offering of different activities. Skiing, golfing, hiking, climbing and camping can be enjoyed in many of the different provinces and landscapes of the vast country. Of course, these activities can require some quite expensive equipment, as well as specialist clothing. Skiing and camping resorts often charge much higher prices for these things, so vacationers hoping to save some money can bring some of the equipment with them. Even if that means bringing some bug repellent ahead of the vacation, avoiding little expenses can help save on travelling costs.

Many resorts and sites offer rental for items like skis and tents for a small fee. Be advised that a credit card is typically required for security and deposit purposes.

Always Get Insurance

Many tourists think travel insurance is an optional extra for holidays, but it is an absolute must when vacationing in Canada. Travel insurance is typically very cheap to buy, and it ensures that travellers are well prepared in case of emergencies. Travellers who are considering camping or skiing holidays simply must take the precaution of being covered for accidents. Travel insurance can also cover costly skiing or camping equipment being broken or stolen, too. Those holidaying in the winter months, also, should be prepared for the possibility of delayed or cancelled flights in the heavy snowy weather. It is always better to be covered by insurance when on vacation in any country.

Massive Amounts of Water

Every second, more than 3160 tons of water flows over the Niagara Falls – That makes your bath time seem like just a puddle of water!

Older than your Great Grandparents!

The Niagara Falls are more than 12, 000 years old!

Riding in a Barrel

Legendary stories have been told throughout Canada and the entire world, about people taking the plunge over the great falls, inside barrels! While this is certainly not safe, a 63 year old woman was the first person to survive this crazy ride.

Not your average Park

The Niagara Falls State Park has the claim to fame of being the oldest state park in America. While the falls are more than 12, 000 years old, the park was only declared as a reservation in 1885.

Have a Glass of Water!

You may not want to drink a glass of water whenever your parents ask you to, but in Canada, things are a little more interesting. More than 20% of all drinking water flows over the great Niagara Falls, meaning you could be drinking from a waterfall!

During the coming months, the city of Toronto is transformed with creativity, inspiration and breathtaking artworks as is plays host to an astonishing photographic exhibition. On display is one of the world’s greatest collections of Canadian history, presenting the proud culture and rich heritage of Toronto. Presented by the Queen’s Quay Terminal, the exhibition will run between May 28^th and September 3^rd 2012, with free admission daily. With over 100 images on loan from the Toronto Star Archives, Toronto Port Authority, City of Toronto Archives and the Queen’s Quay Terminal, visitors are sure to be enthralled by the vast array of photographs on show.

Queen’s Quay Terminal has recently announced that they will proudly be running their first ever annual “Haute Dog” event, where visitors are encouraged to bring their four-legged friends along for a day of shopping and specialty events. The complex is sure to be packed with dog lovers from all walks, as the Queen’s Quay Terminal is transformed into a canine paradise.

Whether you are visiting Toronto during the summer or the winter months, there is sure to be something spectacular that will catch your eye. One of the most unique and captivating Toronto attractions, the events of Queen’s Plaza are a not to be missed Canadian delight.

Whistler Blackcomb is the ultimate snow experience, offering beginners and experts over 8000 acres of world class skiable terrain over two mountains, including alpine bowls, marked routes, glaciers and 38 lifts for easy access to some of the best runs on the mountain. If you are only a beginner do not worry as you can hire all of the gear you need from one of the many ski shops located in Whistler and there are many areas that suitable for people learning to ski. If skiing isn’t really your passion however, you can always opt to participate in a range of fun winter activities at Whistler, including snowmobiling, sleigh rides, tubing, tasting tours or a day at the spa.

With endless amounts of accommodation options in Whistler and surrounding areas, you will not be short of options on where to stay when visiting this magical snow destination. Whether you choose to stay in five star luxuries or are looking for more affordable hotels and accommodation, Whistler has something to suit everyone’s style and budget.

Whistler is the perfect winter escape for everyone, whether you are travelling solo, as a couple or in family you will always find something fun to do. Don’t spend another winter wishing you were gliding through freshly fallen snow, book your perfect winter holiday now and make your dream a reality!

The oldest landmark in Toronto, the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, is truly a sight to be seen with its beacon of light guiding ships into the Toronto Harbour, for more than 150 years. Like most historical buildings, there have been tales of misfortune and intrigue that surround the lighthouse, including the mysterious death of one of the lighthouse keepers in the early 1800s.

The Franklin Children’s Garden is an interactive playground for children and families. Many families will be familiar with the children’s character ‘Franklin the Turtle’, the inspiration for this wondrous garden. There are a number of fun activities that the whole family will enjoy, including the exploration of six different gardens, storytelling and gardening.

Centreville, one of the most popular Toronto attractions, is an amusement guaranteed to provide a fun filled day for the whole family. From flume rides and teacup twirling to antique cars and everything in between, Centreville is the one stop destination for family fun.

There is always something new and exciting for visitors to see at the Museum, with different exhibitions being frequently released to the public. With a number of exhibitions being run at the same time, there is always something that will no doubt appeal to everyone’s interests. Along with in depth war history and virtual exhibitions, the museum always caters for people visiting with their families by providing at least one family friendly exhibition. If you are not interested in seeing one of the many exhibitions, the museums regular attractions are sure to suffice.

One of the current exhibitions on display at the Canadian War Museum is the “Second World War Kit”. This exhibition is fun and interesting for all ages, providing an insight into what was worn and what equipment was used by Canadian soldiers in World War II. The Second World War Kit provides an in depth demonstration to viewers and is free with admission to the museum.

When planning your visit to the museum be sure to check out the museum’s website for the most up to date information regarding admission prices, viewing times and exhibition details. If you are travelling as a family and want to get your kids excited and educated about the museum before you even arrive, check out the Education section of the website, which provides users with fun and interesting activities. The Canadian War Museum is fun and interesting for all ages and an attraction that should not be missed when visiting the beautiful country of Canada.

Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland lies along the coastline and is the second largest national park in Canada. Here, you can explore the second highest mountain peak in the country, hike along the famous James Callaghan Trail, and view the wide selection of wildlife that lives here. Facilities include walk-in and drive-in campgrounds without electricity, playgrounds, and bathrooms with hot water and showers. This area is ideal for travellers visiting the area with kids and pets.

Tunnel Mountain in Banff, Alberta provides travellers with the ideal way to experience the natural beauty of this popular destination. Here, you will find proximity to all that Banff has to offer as well as campsites that feature full hook-ups, showers, and flushing toilets. Travellers with pets and kids will find this camping spot enjoyable.

Clayoquot Sound is often considered to be one of the best camping spots in British Columbia. Here, you can camp for free right on public beaches and enjoy the relaxing sounds of the waves crashing on shore. This area is more remote, and showers and restrooms are not provided on the beach. However, other nearby campground nearby may be suitable for those travelling with kids and pets.

One of the newer rides is Windseeker. With a whole new twist on swings, this awesome ride will take you up 30 stories and give you an amazing view of the park while you spin at 50km/h. A 230 foot tall drop tower will raise you up and drop you at 100km/h for the thrill of a lifetime.

There are some fantastic family rides, such as the Speed City Raceway and Silver Streak, a junior inverted coaster. For some wet adventure, check out White Water Canyon where you will ride the rapids, or Timberwolf Falls where you will splash down for an thrilling finish to your ride.

Prices for the park are $55.57 for adults and $32.17 for children and seniors.

Other theme parks in Canada include La Ronde in Quebec, and Playland amusement park in Vancouver. Canada’s largest water park is Magic Mountain in New Brunswick. With eight water slides, pools, a lazy river and a giant hot tub, you can have splashing fun all day long.

In total, the zoo represents over 500 species comprising of over 5,000 animals. Beautifully arranged into seven zoogeographic areas, the park is easy to explore. The areas include Africa, America, Australia, Malaysia, the Tundra Trek and the Canadian Domain. One can easily view the animals in their tropical pavilions and outdoor natural habitats. The amazing Tundra Trek is 10 acres featuring a 5 acre polar bear habitat. One can travel underground glass tunnels to get a close view of their underworld life. Snow geese, Arctic fox, wolves, reindeer and snowy owl also are home to the Tundra Trek.

The Zellers Discovery Zone is a dynamic wildlife experience. Children can play in the pool area and take in an exciting show at the Waterside Theatre. Shows of dancing dolphins and sea lions play throughout the day. The rides are a blast for the whole family. Take a ride on camels and ponies. Jump on the zoo mobile or the conservation carousel.

Gifts shops are on the premises and plenty of kiosks line the walking trails for souvenir shopping. With over 10 restaurants, the zoo makes sure everyone is fed. Try the African Restaurant or the Peacock Café for a perfect treat. Admission the zoo is approximately A$23 for adults and A$13 for children.