I’m not sure why, but Canada isn’t always high on the list of places to visit. Most people want to go to head to Spain or Italy or anywhere in Europe. They seem more exotic, maybe because they’ re further away.
Canada is only a short plane ride from the US, so for some, it may not hold the same appeal. In my opinion, it is one of the best places to visit for some of those same reasons.
It’s closer location doesn’t make it any less exciting. If you are planning on going, here are a few notes that may come in handy.
Pack Warm Clothes
Seemingly obvious but Canada is not the sort of place where you can wear shorts and a t-shirt all day long. Even in the summer the temperatures are quite moderate. You will need to wrap up later in the day as the temperature suddenly drops at night and makes it feel as if you are in the Arctic.
I have always wondered what Canadians think of us heading their way while donning their Canada Goose camp coats.
Don’t Miss Quebec
There are plenty of amazing cities and provinces, but Quebec is the jewel in the crown. A major part of the appeal (to me) is many of the people there don’t speak English.
The fact that the province predominantly speaks French might put some people off as it makes life harder. But, it makes the experience more enjoyable. Most residents are bilingual and can speak French and English, but I enjoy being in a place where English isn’t the prominent language.
Quebec also has a host of beautiful places to stay and breathtaking views. Mont Tremblant and the Mont Tremblant chalet rentals are prime examples, yet there is plenty more. Quebec is also home to Montreal, one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
Embrace The Extreme Sports
You can’t get away from the extreme sports lifestyle when you land in Canada. It is like being in Colorado and Aspen and not going skiing. Well Canada has so many skiing resorts that it would almost be rude not to give it a try.
Whistler is probably the most well known of them all, and it is great if you get the chance (have you ever considered heli-skiing?) Wherever you end up, make sure that you try to participate in something even if it isn’t the most extreme.
Get Used To People Being Nice
The stereotype about Canadians being nice is true, and it is something you should mentally prepare for when you land (especially if you’re from Boston!)
It sounds silly, but I have heard time and time again how strange it seemed that people were so nice (what is happening to us and our society that this is actually a thing!?)
It seems to catch a lot of people off guard, or you might not react in the proper manner. Prepare to smile and lot and thank people for the most basic things, basically treating others as we should be.
Where is your next trip and how do you plan to prepare?
I’ll be at Basin Harbor on Lake Champlain this weekend for a special trip.
Follow along on social (and Snapchat) @BostonGeorgina to see what’s going on live!
sandra
June 23, 2016Great post