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Tourism in Canada: A Place for All SeasonsIn Canada, tourism is a booming business employing more than half a million people in industries such as transportation, accommodation, recreation and entertainment. In 1999, for example, tourism generated $50.1 billion and 2.5 percent of the country's Gross Domestic Product. That year, almost 20 million international tourists visited Canada, and Canadians made more than 15 million overnight trips to provinces outside their own. From coast to coast, this vast country offers world-class adventures, great outdoor experiences, and entertaining activities. Visitors are sure to find whatever they seek. Nature lovers can take in the diverse plant and animal life that resides in the 38 national, over 1 000 provincial and nearly 50 territorial parks. Outdoor enthusiasts can participate in any number of sports such as skiing, fishing, hiking, white water rafting and cycling, among others. History buffs can explore 836 national historic sites, as well as forts and museums that bring the past to life. And culture seekers can enjoy the cuisine, arts and traditions that give Canada its unique character. While some might consider tourism a seasonal industry limited primarily to the warmer climes of spring, summer and fall, in Canada this is a year-round business. When the snow blankets much of the landscape, it's time to play at one of our many winter getaways. Glide along the world's longest outdoor skating rink, the Rideau Canal; spend a night in North America's famous ice hotel in Quebec City; ski the spectacular Rocky Mountains; set up winter camp on the East Coast; or visit an Inuit igloo in the Arctic. The Atlantic Region Canada's Atlantic region is known worldwide for its vibrant music and spectacular coastlines. The rugged Atlantic coast offers a spectacular array of rocky coves and bays, churning waters and magnificent beaches. Visitors to Canada's east coast will thrill to the sounds of traditional Scottish bagpipes, toe-tapping Acadian jigs, soulful gospel hymns and harmonious Celtic rock made famous by such talents as Natalie MacMaster, The Rankin Family, Anne Murray and Ashley MacIsaac. The Central Region Enjoy the rich and friendly warmth of French culture, explore natural treasures and marvel at the unique blend of new and old in Quebec, Canada's largest province. Quebec boasts 20 unique tourism regions, offering everything from the relaxation of a sugar bush or whale watching to fine dining, superb shopping and some of the world's best comedy and jazz festivals. Among other things, Quebec is home to Cirque du Soleil; the Just For Laughs comedy festival; the world's largest winter carnival, Carnaval de Quebec; and the magnificent 10 000 square feet, 4 500 ton Ice Hotel. Ontario attracts visitors from all walks of life. Some come to relax and enjoy the peaceful tranquility of the many charming towns and villages, unspoiled forests, parks and lakes scattered throughout the province. Others are drawn to the more exciting attractions - museums, year-round festivals and theatre productions - found in the larger metropolitan areas such as: Ottawa, the nation's capital; Toronto, Canada's largest city; and the honeymooners' paradise, Niagara Falls. The Prairie Region The Prairie Region is tailor-made for those seeking the ultimate western outdoor experience. Natural landscapes and wildlife, wilderness adventures, white water rafting, dude ranches and outfitting services abound. Visitors will discover some of Canada's best fishing and golf, and can ski the Rocky Mountains at world famous resorts in Banff and Jasper, Alberta. Other notables include the renowned Royal Winnipeg Ballet Company, the Calgary Stampede, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Training Academy in Saskatchewan, and the West Edmonton Mall, the world's largest shopping and entertainment complex. The Pacific Region The beauty and magnificence of British Columbia's snow-capped mountain ranges and superb skiing draw millions of tourists to this region each year. Visitors flock here to enjoy such famous ranges as the Rockies and the Coast Mountains, home of the highest peaks in Canada. But they soon discover there is much more to enhance their stay. The varied landscape includes lush valleys, great plains, sandy beaches and rolling hills. Visitors can tour hiking trails, artists' colonies, wildlife reserves, parks and conservation areas. Or stop to watch whales play just off the coast. And there's even more to see for those who travel from the mainland to Vancouver Island and the Queen Charlotte Islands. The Arctic Region The vastness of Canada's final frontier is overwhelming, stretching thousands of kilometres and spanning three time zones. But contrary to popular belief, it is not a frozen wasteland. The region offers an outdoor educational adventure for children and adults alike. Visitors can watch the sunset melt into sunrise during the long summer days and gaze in awe as the Aurora Borealis lights up the sky in the winter. The region is home to such educational sites as: Wood Buffalo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the Yukon Beringia Interpretative Centre filled with the history and culture of Aboriginal people; and the McConnell River Bird Sanctuary and Sentry Island in Nunavut. Learn More With its pristine wilderness, cosmopolitan cities, friendly people, diverse cultures, seasonal variations and geographic wonders, it's easy to understand why Canada is among the world's top ten tourist destinations. To learn more about touring Canada, visit: Canadian Tourism: Attractions Canada: http://attractionscanada.com |
