1) It has fabulous thriving cities full of cultural experiences
In good news for holiday-makers and permanent settlers, Canada is well-represented in The Economist’s list of the top 5 most liveable cities in the world. Vancouver, Toronto and Calgary are at 3, 4 and 5 respectively! Three out of five ain’t bad, eh? British Columbia is a province known for its natural wonders, but you don’t have to be an avid outdoors person to enjoy its eclectic cities. Did you know Vancouver has cool beaches? In summer, Kitsilano Beach hosts late-night volleyball matches and afterwards revellers cruise into the pumping Kitsilano neighbourhood for drinks. And then there’s Victoria, on Vancouver Island – a charming city known for its unique restaurants and awesome festivals. Very close to New York state, the city of Toronto in Ontario is a collection of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe. Don’t miss the Old Town, the historic Distillery District and the entertainment neighbourhood in Downtown Toronto.
2) Survey says it’s the best place to live AND do business
Canada’s pristine reputation speaks for itself. For the fourth year in a row, it’s topped the list as having the best rep in the world, according to a survey of 27,000+ people globally (beating out Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and Australia!). Respondents of the annual Reputation Institute survey were asked to rate countries based on three criteria: an effective government, an advanced economy and an appealing economy. Aw, thanks everyone!
3) It has awe-inspiring natural wonders you won’t find anywhere else
Only in Canada can you discover cascading waterfalls and majestic mountains within two hours from big cities. And where else can you go on an Arctic safari, visit lush rainforests, kayak on crystal lakes or ride whitewater rivers? To see nature put on its prettiest show, time your visit to coincide with Canada’s kaleidoscopic autumn colours (outstanding views are in the Parc national du Mont-Tremblant, Quebec, or Cape Breton, Nova Scotia). When the sun goes down, witness the aurora borealis in the Yukon or Northwest Territories.
4) It has a socially progressive PM (who is really, really good-looking)
Young gun Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is doing Canada proud. Born on Christmas Day, the 44-year-old is known for his infectious optimism and his diverse cabinet, which has an equal number of women and men (“Because it’s 2015,” he said, when asked why). He attempted to high-five Prince George on Kate and Will’s recent visit and got snubbed but – champion that he is – he took it graciously. What a guy! What a credit to the nation!
5) It welcomes refugees with open arms
Canadians are known as friendly folk and for good reason. Right now, the Canadian Government is working with Canadians to welcome 25,000 Syrian refugees to Canada. “Our compassion and fairness are a great source of pride for Canadians… Canada resettles refugees to save lives and to provide stability to those fleeing persecution who have no hope of relief.” Good on them, we say!
Presented by Destination Canada
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