CITY & RESORT GUIDE

Choose a City or Resort Here Banff, Alberta Calgary, Alberta Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island Edmonton, Alberta Fredericton, New Brunswick Halifax, Nova Scotia Iqaluit, Nunavut Jasper, Alberta Labrador City, Newfoundland & Labrador Lake Louise, Alberta Moncton, New Brunswick Montreal, Quebec Niagara Falls, Ontario Ottawa, Ontario Quebec City, Quebec Regina, Saskatchewan Saskatoon, Saskatchewan St. John, New Brunswick St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador Toronto, Ontario Vancouver, British Columbia Victoria, British Columbia Whistler, British Columbia Whitehorse, Yukon Winnipeg, Manitoba Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

Canadian cities offer a terrific escape from the ordinary, whether you're looking for frontier adventure or urban sophistication. The larger cities are vibrant, where you will find internationally acclaimed ballet and theatre, museums, and galleries as well as an array of bars, night-clubs and discos and some of the most ethnically diverse dining available on the planet.

Banff, Alberta

In 1883, the transcontinental railway reached the formidable Rocky Mountains and three railway workers chanced upon some simmering hot springs. The government immediately protected the area and two years later became Canada's first national park, Banff National Park.

At 1,384 metres above sea level, Banff is "Canada's Highest Town". It's a unique place to visit, let alone live. A train whistle blows in the distance as a reminder of the area's railway roots while designer shops dot the streetscapes. From a sleepy summer resort town that used to close its doors in the winter months, Banff has now grown to be a year-round attraction.

Lured by the wilderness and the variety of outdoor activities, people from all over the world are drawn to Banff National Park each year. They venture into the area looking for their slice of the Banff experience, whether it's in the restaurants, shops, museums, cultural activities, or adventures in the wilderness.

On Banff's bustling main avenue, virtually every language from German and Japanese to French and Spanish can be heard. Yet only minutes away from all the action, a quiet walk along the banks of the Bow River reminds you that the town is located inside Canada's premier national park and a United Nations World Heritage Site!

Calgary, Alberta

Calgary is a dynamic city, nestled in the rolling foothills of Canada's Rocky Mountains. Every July "Stampede Fever" hits the city, as the world famous Calgary Stampede draws thousands of people to the 10-day rodeo and western celebration.

Visit the Canadian Airlines Saddledome with its remarkable cable-suspended concrete roof, a legacy from the 1988 Olympic Winter Games and now home to the Calgary Stampede. Stop by the Calgary Zoo, the second largest in Canada, which houses a prehistoric park with life-size dinosaur replicas. Enjoy a fine dinner in one of western Canada's highest restaurants atop the 626-foot-high revolving Calgary Tower.

Other attractions include the Glenbow Museum, internationally renowned for its collection of First Nation's artefacts, the Calgary Science Centre, Theatre Calgary and the Spruce Meadows equestrian centre.

Calgary makes a perfect base for day excursions. An hour and-a-half drive takes you to Drumheller and the world's most extensive display of dinosaurs at the Royal Tyrell Museum of Palaeontology . And just to the south is the fascinating Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump.

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown is the capital and the largest city on Prince Edward Island. It also has the distinction of being "The Birthplace of Canada". In 1864, delegates from "Upper and Lower Canada" (which is now Ontario and Québec) first gathered here to discuss a federation. Relive the 1864 Charlottetown Conference at the Province House, where the Confederation Players perform daily historical vignettes.

Must-visits in Charlottetown include Peake's Wharf, with its colourful craft shops, boat tours of the harbour, restaurants and boardwalks. Great George Street - a National Historic Area - is the route the Fathers of Confederation took from their ship to Province House.

Nearby are the Island Crafts Shop, Cow's Ice Cream and Beaconsfield Historic House. Newer attractions include The Acadian Museum, which features exhibitions depicting the story of Island Acadians from 1720 to the present day.

And no trip to Prince Edward Island is complete without visiting The Anne of Green Gables Museum and Silver Bush, the "wonder castle" of author L.M. Montgomery. This farm inspired many of her stories and the farm's pond became the famous "Lake of Shining Waters".

Edmonton, Alberta

A city of natural beauty and outgoing personality, the Alberta provincial capital Edmonton boasts a unique, cosmopolitan charm. Known as "Canada's Festival City", Edmonton hosts a number of events each summer, including the Edmonton Klondike Days and Heritage Festival.

For fans of performance art and music there are The Fringe Theatre Event, The Works, and Jazz City. Of special interest to fans of native arts and culture is the Dreamspeakers festival.

The North Saskatchewan River flows through the city and numerous bridges provide access to dozens of parks, golf courses and woodland trails popular with hikers, joggers and cyclists. Visitors will find a wonderland of indoor marvels at West Edmonton Mall.

Sprawling over the equivalent of 48 city blocks, the mall boasts the world's largest indoor amusement park, computer-run wave pool, full-size replica of Columbus's Santa Maria, a golf course, an NHL-size skating rink and a lagoon with leaping dolphins. There are restaurants, theatres, and as many stores and boutiques as you could possibly want.

Fredericton, New Brunswick

Located on the lovely St. John River is Fredericton, New Brunswick's bustling provincial capital. Fredericton is a walker's city, with a riverfront featuring three miles of paths meandering beside houseboats, cafes, museums and Victorian mansions. Along the way you can take in a concert or some outdoor theatre.

Must-sees in the city include the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, which houses one of Salvador Dali's largest masterpieces and the world's most extensive public collection of works by Cornelius Krieghoff. Across from the Gallery is The Playhouse, featuring regular presentations of dramas and musicals. The Cathedral Festival of the Arts, River Jubilee and the Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival also draw many fans.

Other attractions in Fredericton include the Sports Hall of Fame, the York-Sunbury Historical Society Museum and Christ Church Cathedral. Some important landmarks include the 1828 Old Arts Building on the University of New Brunswick campus, City Hall, York County Courthouse, and the Old Government House.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax, the capital city of Nova Scotia, is steeped in history, rich in culture and refreshingly cosmopolitan. Harper's Bazaar magazine recently rated Halifax as one of North America's "hippest towns".

Visitors can experience the city's heritage at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site where kilted soldiers drill to the skirl of Bagpipes. Take in the sun on the sandy beaches of Lawrencetown or Clam Harbour or visit the picturesque fishing village of Peggy's Cove with its famous Lighthouse. Check out the 1917 Halifax Explosion at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. From big ships to small boats, from figureheads to foghorns, you'll learn all about the riches of Nova Scotia's maritime heritage.

In summer, Halifax is home to the renowned International Buskers Festival and the International Tattoo. Colourful regattas stream across the harbour waters while the hustle and bustle of shops and restaurants spills out onto the cobbled streets. At night, relax in a cosy pub and listen to lively Celtic tunes, or enjoy the cool sounds of a jazz club. You can even try your luck at the world-class Sheraton casino.

Iqaluit, Nunavut

In December 1995, Iqaluit was selected in a Nunavut-wide plebiscite to be the capital of the new central and eastern Arctic territory and that historic day arrived on April 1, 1999. The main portion of Iqaluit (pronounced "ee-ka-loo-eet") overlooks Koojesse Inlet, which has some of the country's longest stretches of exposed area at low tide.

Iqaluit sits in the gentle hills surrounding Koojesse Inlet with the local hills blessed with a wide variety of arctic wildflowers, which start appearing in late June and bloom through early August. Even the disturbed areas by the sides of the roads are bright in July with the hot pink of broad-leaved willow herb. As well as the raven, the one bird easily encountered all year round, in the summer it may be possible to spot snow buntings, ptarmigan, seagulls, the odd phalarope, and if you're particularly lucky, peregrine falcons.

Winter expeditions to the outskirts of town often result in glimpses of large groups of caribou, as their migration patterns have brought them close to town in the last few years. In the summer, you might spot the very shy arctic hare and an occasional lemming. Seals can frequently be spotted in Koojesse Inlet when the ice is gone, but it's rare for the larger marine mammals to come in that far.

Iqaluit's Unikkaarvik Visitors Centre, conveniently located on Iqaluit's beachfront, between the Pairijait Tigumivik Elders' Facility and the Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum, displays spectacular artwork, including a life-size marble carving of a drum dancer crafted by Inuit carvers under the tutelage of renowned Canadian sculptor George Pratt.

The Visitors Centre can provide brochures describing day hikes in the vicinity of town where discovering an inuksuk or two, the legendary stone markers that Inuit traditionally built as landmarks on many parts of the tundra, is not unusual. Some inuksuit were built to resemble humans, to help hunters lead caribou into lakes where they could be more easily killed from a qajaq (kayak).

Next door is the lqaluit Centennial Library, where visitors can discover the Thomas Manning collection of polar books, the personal collection of respected biologist Thomas Manning. The local collection is also strong in books on arctic flora, fauna, and history, and carries a high proportion of all materials published in Inuktitut.

The "downtown" core of Iqaluit has undergone considerable change, with the 'Four Corners' section developed to accommodate the offices and legislative space for Nunavut's new capital. Construction in general is likely to be ongoing for the next few years, as there is a shortage of space available for the offices and residences needed to accommodate such a new government.

Iqaluit, like many of Nunavut's communities, is paradise for lovers of art and fine crafts. Among the stone carvings by local Inuit artists, you'll see depictions of arctic animals, some in dancing postures, as well as human and legendary heads and figures. The stone, an even-textured grey-green stone and a brighter green stone that has the look of marble, is the same as that used by artists in Kimmirut and Cape Dorset.

In addition to the arts and crafts displayed in museums, several commercial art outlets sell graphics, paintings and sell jewellery made from traditional materials, silver and other metals, plus small carvings. It may be possible to also find hand-sewn, knitted, and crocheted crafts such as duffel socks and tuques (knitted hats), and seal- or caribou-skin mitts and boots.

Jasper, Alberta

The first explorer to arrive in this area was David Thompson in 1811, where he established Jasper's first permanent habitation, a way-station for voyageurs. Jasper National Park was formed in 1907 and it's combination of wildlife, startlingly blue-green mountain lakes, soaring peaks and broad forested valleys ranks it as one of the world's premiere national parks and more than 1.8 million people a year visit the park to experience this unique wilderness and World Heritage Site.

The town of Jasper itself is located right in the heart of the National Park and at the end of the phenomenal Icefields Parkway. This community of 4,500 inhabitants provides a beautiful alpine backdrop for many year-round activities, and is an excellent centre for touring from.

A good way to start any visit to Jasper is a stop at the Townsite Information Centre, beside Athabasca Park. The Parks Interpretive staff offer information on scenic places to visit, natural history presentations to attend as well as local happenings. Guided walking tour offered by the Parks and People Co-operative, also based at the Information Centre.

The Jasper Yellowhead Museum, opened in 1990, preserves artefacts donated by Jasper's pioneers. Some of these artefacts are on display in exhibitions about the fur trade and the steam rail era. Across the street from the museum is Jasper's new Aquatic Centre, an excellent facility for the whole family, featuring a full-size indoor pool, water slide, a kids' pool, a steam room and a hot pool.

Jasper hosts many special community events during the summer, including the annual Canada Day parade on 1st July and the Jasper Lions Indoor Pro Rodeo held in mid-August.

Labrador City, Newfoundland & Labrador

Labrador City and Wabush are the twin towns commonly referred to as Labrador West, are situated on the rich iron ore deposits of the Labrador trough on the mainland portion of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

Nestled in the iron rich rolling hills and between numerous lakes Labrador West is truly a dichotomy of pristine wilderness and is one of the world's last frontiers. This beautiful and majestic land has remained virtually untouched since its creation. Experience its breathtaking landscape of endless mountains, forest and lakes.

Begin your discovery in Labrador West; the most accessible area of Labrador -- twelve months of the year. Stroll through the walking trails, see the crystal clear waterfalls, the lush evergreens and pick wild berries. Go camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, boating. Snowmobile on 400 kilometres of groomed trails, here in Canada's newest snowmobile destination.

Dog sledding, alpine and world class nordic skiing await the winter enthusiast. Experience wildlife in its natural surrounds including the George River Caribou Herd, one of the world's largest caribou herds with upward of 700,000 animals! There are established outfitters and exploration companies available to provide groups or individuals with exciting times and unforgettable adventures.

Labrador West has become a favourite visitor destination for families, bus tours, amateur astronomers and geologists, sports enthusiasts and adventure tourists. Friendly spirits, warm hospitality and exciting activities and attractions are all reasons to explore Labrador.

Lake Louise, Alberta

In 1882, guided by a Stoney Indian, Tom Wilson became the first white man to discover what native Indians called "Lake of Little Fishes". He named his discovery Emerald Lake, but it was later changed by the Geographic Board to Lake Louise in honour of Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, fourth daughter of Queen Victoria.

Lake Louise, with its blue-green water set against the stark backdrop of Victoria Glacier, is probably the most beloved and most photographed scene in the Canadian Rockies. There are trails for walking, skiing and horseback riding. Interpretive displays, fine dining at local hotels and heritage railway station, and short drives to Moraine Lake await.

Cosy and close to nature, Lake Louise has been called the ultimate gateway. Not only have international royalty, Hollywood stars and heads of state come to Lake Louise to relax, but increasingly the rest of the world is discovering its simple charms as well. Romantic and relaxing, the pace in Lake Louise attracts people who want to savour the finer things of life; a good book in front of a fireplace, the stillness of the outdoors, or a quiet walk after dinner.

There's a lower village with a vast array of fine dining, first class accommodations and shopping. The lower village of Lake Louise is south of the Trans-Canada Highway in the Bow River valley. The Lake Louise Visitor Center is next to the Samson Mall, on the right as you enter the village and features exhibits on the human and natural history of the area. The centre provides current information on trails and interpretive programs.

Up the hill the Chateau Lake Louise presents lake-side views of the towering Victoria Glacier offering old-world charm and elegance amidst the wilderness. In Lake Louise all this is virtually right outside the door.

Moncton, New Brunswick

The area now known as Moncton was once an early Acadian settlement known as "Le Coude." After the deportation of the Acadians, the settlement lay empty until immigrant families arrived from Pennsylvania in June 1766 with a land grant issued by the Philadelphia Land Company. Named after the British soldier, Lt.-Colonel Robert Monckton, the settlement was incorporated as a town in 1855. Moncton became a city on the 23rd of April, 1890.

Must sees in Moncton include Moncton Market open Saturday from 7am to 1pn on Werstmorland Street. This is the most modern market in Atlantic Canada featuring fresh produce, baking, ethnic cuisine, and crafts and there is ample parking.

The Capital Theatre, which has been restored to its original 1922 elegance, is one of only eight such theatres in Canada. Showcasing local, national and international talent year-round, check the box office for a current schedule or more information.

The Acadian Museum has an interesting and varied collection of artefacts reflects the Acadian culture from 1604 to the present. Included is a book written by Samuel de Champlain, a huge painting of the Acadian deportation, the original Acadian Flag (1884), old Acadian newspapers, textiles and more.

Just of the Trans Canada Highway is Magnetic Hill and take your foot off the brake and be amazed as the vehicle rolls uphill. Magnetic Hill is Canada's third most visited natural attraction and is adjacent to a family theme park and zoo. A fun time for everyone!

The Tidal Bore at Petitcodiac River is a scenic phenomenon caused by the surging Bay of Fundy tides, the highest in the world and the Bore occurs twice daily. The higher waters in the Bay cause the water in the placid Petitcodiac River to roll back upstream in one wave, which can range in height from 3 to 60 centimetres. Just as spectacular is the rapid and dramatic change in the river itself.

At low tide the muddy river bottom is often visible, but within an hour of the arrival of the Bore, the water level rises some 7.5 metres to fill the river to its banks. The Tidal Bore can be observed from many places around Greater Moncton, whether it is from Dieppe, Moncton or Riverview. A local Tourist Information Centre can provide more information on the Tidal Bore Schedule.

Montreal, Quebec

Surrounded by water and brightened by 650 parks and green spaces, Montréal's island city is many cities in one. The second largest French-speaking city in the world, Montréal is a great combination of old world charm and big city excitement.

Explore one of the city's many quartiers; the artistic Plateau Montréal, and the Latin Quarter with its colourful wall murals, mansard roofs, spiralling stairs and outdoor cafes; the multi-ethnic Main, Chinatown with its pagodas and apothecaries, Little Italy with its markets and cappuccino shops.

Take a ride in a horse drawn sleigh, or spend an afternoon exploring the city's chic boutiques and bistros. Ride the métro, drop by the Insectarium for a look at rare insects from more than 100 countries, or visit the island playground of Parc des Îles with its beach, cycling paths and outdoor skating rink. The Montreal Olympic Park is a must to visit and the views from the top of Mount Royal are spectacular on a clear day.

Montréal is a hot spot for talent in all the arts: visual arts, music, dance, comedy, theatre and cultural festivals. It is also a world film-making capital. Choose from one of the city's hundreds of restaurants, or head to the Casino de Montréal, one of the ten largest in the world.

Niagara Falls, Ontario

There is something about Niagara Falls, Canada that appeals to the lover, daredevil and poet in everyone. Over the years Niagara Falls has evolved from a strategic military post to a prosperous trade centre, and finally into a world class year-round travel destination.

Nature has left an indelible mark on the Niagara region. The Canadian Falls, with a height of 54 metres and the American Falls, at 56 metres are true wonders of nature. About 12,000 years ago, Niagara Falls was 11 kilometres downstream from its present location. Until the early 1950s, the Falls eroded at the average rate of 1 metre per year.

Since then, major water diversions have spread out the flow more evenly, slowing the rate of erosion at the Falls. These include the Sir Adam Beck #2 Generating Station (1954) on the Canadian side of the border, the Robert Moses Niagara Power Plant (1961) on the American side of the Niagara River, and the International Control Works (1954-1963).

The Canadian (Horseshoe) Falls Facts

• The Canadian Falls is approximately 52 metres high.
• The crestline is estimated to be 675 metres wide.
• The depth of the river at the base of the falls is actually higher than the falls itself.
• The river's depth is estimated at 56 metres.
• The flow of water over the crestline of the falls is estimated at more than 168,000 cubic metres. The Canadian Falls was first described as "horseshoe" shaped in 1721.

The American Falls Facts

• The American Falls at approximately 56 metres high are slightly higher that it's Canadian counterpart.
• The crestline is estimated to be 328 metres wide.
• It is estimated that 75,000 gallons of water flow over the American Falls each second, amounting to only 10% of Niagara's total waterflow.
• Geologists predict that eventually the American Falls will transform into a succession of descending rapids although the diversion of water above the falls has slowed the forces of erosion.
• The American Falls look more spectacular at night, when lit with coloured lights

No one has ever dared to conquer the American Falls in a barrel. All daredevil activities have always concentrated on the Canadian Horseshoe Falls because it has a larger waterflow and fewer rocks at its basin.

People from all over the world including royalty, poets, and celebrities have come to Niagara to experience its awe-inspiring wonders and today Niagara Falls, features some world class attractions such as The Botanical Gardens, Casino Niagara, Great Gorge Adventure, an Imax Theatre, Niagara Helicopters, Marineland, and the popular new Butterfly Conservatory so name but a few.

Take the time to discover all that Niagara Falls and its region has to offer, close by at Niagara-on-the-Lake, catch some excellent theatre in a country setting. The Town has retained its 19th century charm and is a wonderful place to explore with its forts, grand mansions, colourful gardens and parks, and pot-pourri of arts and crafts." The town hosts the Shaw Festival, with plays by George Bernard Shaw and his contemporaries.

From its' humble beginnings over 100 years ago, Niagara's "wine country" is now producing some of the finest wines in Canada. A revolution of planting and growing methods have ushered Niagara wines to the international forefront. Within a short drive of Niagara Falls & Niagara-on-the-Lake visitors can discover dozens of wineries along Niagara's Wine Route.

Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa is Canada's capital. At the head of the city, rising dramatically on a bluff overlooking the Ottawa River are the stately Parliament Buildings, seat of the government of Canada. Central among the city's attractions is the Rideau Canal; a lazy cruise is a delightful way to travel through the heart of the city, and in winter, the canal becomes the world's longest skating rink.

Inspect the Changing of the Guard, talk to a Mountie, and retrace Canada's history at the Canadian Museum of Civilisation (across the Ottawa River in neighbouring Hull, Quebec). Discover Canada's military history at the Canadian War Museum, plunge into a gold mine at the Canadian Museum of Nature, and investigate the National Museum of Science and Technology where exhibits profile space, computer, astronomy and communications technologies.

Visit Byward Market for wine bars and farmers' stalls loaded with flowers and fresh produce. Snack on a "beavertail" (a deep-fried sweet pastry shaped like a beaver's tail). During the Canadian Tulip Festival in May, the city's gardens blaze with over three million tulips commemorating Canada's aid to Holland during World War II. And there's no better place to be than the country's capital for the July 1st celebrations of Canada Day.

Quebec City, Quebec

Québec City is a charming and historic city with a distinctly European cachet. The turrets and towers of the Chateau Frontenac dominate the skyline. Narrow streets climb steeply down to the Lower Town and restaurants are tucked into homes dating from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Today, Québec's old storied city of citadel, stone walls and ramparts is the only fortified city north of Mexico, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take an exhilarating stroll along the Dufferin Terrace overlooking the Lower Town and the watery blue horizon of the St. Lawrence River. Visit the fascinating Musée du Québec. Situated on the historic Plains of Abraham, it features an extensive collection of Québec art from the early years to the modern day.

The highlight of the winter season is the Québec City Winter Carnival. And only 30 minutes away, you'll find Mont-Sainte-Anne, Canada's largest cross-country ski Center. In summer, you'll find golf courses, as well as mountain biking and climbing, sailing, and horseback riding.

Regina, Saskatchewan

The city of Regina and capital of Saskatchewan appears as an oasis in the vast landscape of the prairies - an impressively beautiful and liveable city. At its Center lies the Wascana Centre, a 2,325-acre urban park-setting for the majestic Legislative Building.

A Regina must-see is Casino Regina, set in historic Union Station. Built in the 1930s, this magnificent stone train station has been restored to its original art deco design, and offers one of the country's most beautiful poker rooms.

Other attractions include the Saskatchewan Science Centre, Kramer IMAX Theatre, MacKenzie Art Gallery and Royal Saskatchewan Museum (providing an intriguing look at the landscapes, geology and prehistoric creatures of the provinces past).

Regina is perhaps most famous for its ties to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. The city is home to Canada's only training academy for the Mounties, and the RCMP Centennial Museum - complete with equipment, weapons and uniforms - is a popular spot for visitors.

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Saskatoon has come a long way since its founders first pitched their tents along the banks of the South Saskatchewan River in 1882, but it has never forgotten its small town friendliness. Running through the city, is the beautiful South Saskatchewan River.

Regular concerts take place in the riverside parks, and prominent landmarks such as the castle-like Delta Bessborough and the University of Saskatchewan overlook the river. Riverboat cruises are popular and the Sportsman River Roar Formula I Power Boat Races draw international attention. Rare white pelicans may also be seen at a weir near one of the city's seven bridges.

Visitors can take in the Western Development Museum, with its circa 1910 Boomtown street, the Ukrainian Museum of Canada, the Mendel Art Gallery, Forestry Farm Park and Saskatoon Zoo, and the Beaver Creek Conservation Area. And in summer, Saskatoon is home to the SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival, Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan and the International Fringe Festival.

For aficionados of native culture, just outside the city the Wanuskewin Heritage Park contains 19 pre-contact sites representing the culture of Northern Plains Indians. Sites include a medicine wheel, tipi rings and buffalo jumps.

St. John, New Brunswick

St. John is found where the St. John River meets the Bay of Fundy. When you arrive, you will notice it is not only the largest commercial port on the Bay of Fundy but, the home to the world s highest tides. The height difference from low to high tide is approximately 8.6 meters and the world-famous Reversing Falls provides one example of the power of these tides.

St. John, population 125,000, is the largest city in the province of New Brunswick and a 90-minute drive from the American border at Calais, Maine, a two hour flight from Toronto, and 75 minutes from Montreal. The City of Saint John covers 323 square kilometres of land, making it the second largest municipality in Canada.

The climate in St.John is temperate but greatly affected by the Bay of Fundy. The Bay is a cool body of water which acts as a natural air conditioner in the summer and diverts major snow storms in the winter. The Bay never freezes and the average summer temperature is 22 degrees Celsius with an average winter temperature of -3.9 degrees Celsius.

The indoor climate-controlled pedway system allows for convenient access to several uptown business blocks, attractions and facilities. The great chain includes Harbour Station, the Canada Games Aquatic Centre, Market Square complex, Saint John Trade and Convention Centre, Saint John Hilton Hotel, Delta Brunswick Hotel, Brunswick Square shopping complex, City Hall, Old City Market, and the New Brunswick Museum.

St. John is Canada's oldest incorporated city, founded by United Empire Loyalists in 1783 and home of Moosehead Breweries, the Canadian Hockey Association's Atlantic Centre of Excellence, the late industrialist KC Irving, one of the world's richest men and the location for the 1985 movie, Children of a Lesser God. St. John is the birthplace of Walter Pidgeon and Donald Sutherland and childhood home of Louis Mayer.

St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador

St. John's, now the capital of the Province of Newfoundland has experienced a long and colourful history. Europeans commenced frequenting this harbour during the latter part of the Italian renaissance period around the beginning of the sixteenth century. St. John's because of its harbour and proximity to the fishing grounds, gained prominence as a commercial trading outpost for the Basques, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and English engaged in the fishery along the western side of the North Atlantic.

The north side of the harbour saw wharves, fish stores, and warehouses constructed to accommodate the trade which grew as a result of the fishery. A path which crossed the various streams and brooks running down the side of the hill connected these premises. This path later became known as the lower path and later still as Water Street - the oldest commercial street in North America.

St. John's, now the commercial and political capital of Newfoundland grew slowly throughout the nineteenth century. ravaged by three fires in 1816, 1846 and 1892, the town recovered and rebuilt after each fire. Although originally proposed in 1832, the town of St. John's did not enjoy municipal government status until 1888 until it elected its first council consisting of five councillors and two government appointees. The population of the town at the time was approximately thirty thousand. The residents enjoyed electric street lights on the main roads and a public water supply although many registered complaints about inadequate sewage disposal facilities.

Most of the city's downtown as bounded by Cookstown Road, Carters Hill, and Beck's Cove in the West and Harvey Road and Military Road in the North burned in the 1892 fire. By the turn of the century, public transit, in the form of electric street cars, picked up and dropped off passengers along Water Street, Adelaide Street, Queens Road, Rawlins Cross, and Military Road. These remained until replaced by buses in 1948.

In 1921 St. John's became incorporated as a city with the passage of the City of St. John's Act by the Newfoundland government. Throughout the first half of the twentieth century it remained the centre of commercial trade in the Newfoundland fishery. Today it remains the main financial and commercial centre for Newfoundland and the capital of the province.

Toronto, Ontario

Toronto is the Capital of the Province of Ontario and Canada's largest city with a population of more than three million people. Filled with parks, gardens and village-style communities, this "people city" is a vibrant mosaic of over 70 cultures celebrating their heritage with colourful festivals and bustling markets.

Putting New York City aside, Toronto features more English language theatre than any other city in North America. To that, add a first-rank symphony, opera company, and ballet corps. With over 4,500 retail shops, Toronto rates as a major fashion centre. Wander the funky boutiques of Queen Street, shop for designer names in chic Yorkville or explore the underground network of stores in the heart of the financial district.

There is so much to see, do and discover in this amazing place, from an energetic waterfront to a host of historical sites, from alluring islands to interactive museums, from urban sophistication to down-to-earth fun, Toronto has memorable experiences for everyone. Whilst it is big and cosmopolitan, it has never lost its sense of family, so, come and explore its special places that are just as exciting and engaging for kids as they are for grown-ups too.

Must-see attractions include the CN Tower (the world's tallest free-standing structure), Casa Loma, Ontario Place (a favourite summer playground,) Ontario Science Centre (an interactive science showcase for all ages) and the Art Gallery of Ontario (showcasing thousands of works including the world's largest collection of Henry Moore sculptures).

From the lakefront, take a 10-minute ferry ride over to the Toronto Islands. Picnic with the impressive Toronto skyline as a backdrop. Rent bikes or in-line skate and delight in the Centreville Amusement Park, a turn-of-the century town with rides, restaurants and shops.

And, if you get hungry, Toronto has over 5,000 restaurants which serve more varieties of cuisine than any other city in the world, allowing you to go globetrotting through diverse ethnic neighbourhoods to sample their gastronomical delights.

Celebrate the arts in theatres, museums and galleries or catch a professional ball game. Trying on and then buying in a shopper's paradise is always a delight or simply rejoice and relax in a city where green spaces are in its nature. Whether it's a week's holiday, a short getaway or just a night on the town on route to somewhere else, you can both lose and find yourself in Canada's most cosmopolitan city.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Perched on the sparkling Pacific beside majestic mountains, Vancouver is a world-class, multicultural city attracting visitors from around the world. Discover the formal gardens, beaches and trails of 1,000 acre Stanley Park, home to the Vancouver Aquarium featuring killer whales, dolphins, and beluga whales.

Enjoy the bustling Public Market and the art shops of Granville Island. Browse the antique stores and boutiques of Gastown. The exquisite Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden in Chinatown, is the only authentic classical Chinese garden outside China.

The Vancouver Art Gallery, located in the city's original 1910 courthouse, houses a major collection by Canadian artist Emily Carr, while the University of British Columbia's Museum of Anthropology contains an exceptional collection of totem poles and Northwest Native art.

In North Vancouver, walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge, 230 feet above the rushing Capilano River. Ride the gondola up to Grouse Mountain and dine overlooking the panorama of the city.

Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria is the provincial capital of British Columbia and delights visitors with its old- world charm. Narrow streets lined with handsome 19th-century stone buildings entice the walker to explore.

The city is famous for Butchart Gardens, 50 acres of rare and exotic plants growing next to native varieties. Other beautiful gardens are found at Government House and Beacon Hill Park. Victoria has preserved her past in fine buildings such as Helmcken House, built in 1852, and Craigdarroch Castle, a landmark home dating to the 1880s.

Other things to do include a visit to the Royal British Columbia Museum housing 12,000 years of BC history, and the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria which highlights some of the world's finest Japanese art including the only Shinto Shrine in North America.

Wildlife lovers with a taste for adventure can choose from more than 20 companies operating marine safaris to see killer whales, porpoises, sea lions, seals and marine birds in waters around Victoria. The city also offers sea kayaking and golfing among other outdoor activities.

Whistler, British Columbia

Whistler and the Blackcomb Mountains rise up a mile out of the valley (5,280 vertical feet) and access over 7,000 acres of prime mountain terrain, including 12 alpine bowls, three glaciers and more than 200 marked trails, through 33 lifts, which include 3 gondolas and 12 high-speed quads.

Whistler has so many things to do and activities to participate in for the whole family, both in the Summer and the Winter. There are Horse-drawn Sleigh Rides carrying their occupants along mountain trails up to a cabin 700 feet above the village. Fly or spin fishing is a year-round activity in Whistler. Charter floatplane and helicopter tours can also be organised for anyone interested in getting a bird's-eye view of Whistler. Take a scenic glacier tour, or perhaps have a heli-picnic in the majestic Coast mountain range.

Whistler's Museum and Archives features permanent galleries where some of the local wildlife can be spotted, along with a history of the Whistler Valley. There are many art galleries in the village where you can peruse local and celebrity works of art. Expressions You-Paint-it Ceramics is a great place in the village to take the children, where they can pick out their own mug or dish and paint it with their own designs.

For winter sport enthusiasts there are over 28 kilometres of track-set cross-country trails take skiers through scenic Lost Lake Park, the Chateau Whistler Golf Course, and Nicklaus North Golf Course. Different routes are available for all levels of skiers. Trail maps and rental equipment are available in sports shops throughout the village.

Many visitors to Whistler Resort come to experience the thrill of a lifetime: heli-skiing or heli-boarding. Intermediate to advanced skiers and boarders are flown up to untouched glaciers for deluxe and multi-day packages including guided descents, alpine lunches, professional video services and apres-ski parties. Head-out on new, user-friendly snowmobiles with the whole family to explore the mountain or Whistler's backcountry.

Snowshoeing is a great way to see wildlife on the mountain, and take a scenic nature hike: Guided tours are available on Whistler Mountain after the ski day is over. From hour-long nature tours, to more advanced full-day excursions, snowshoeing does not require any previous experience. If you know how to walk, you know how to snowshoe.

Mush! Experience the wilds of Whistler's backcountry by dogsled. Let our Mushers and the team of Alaska Husky sled dogs take you on a trip through the Cougar Mountain wilderness by one of the most ancient forms of travel in the world.

Whitehorse, Yukon

Whitehorse, the capital city of the Yukon and is, for all its modern conveniences, a fascinating historical place. Take in the MacBride Museum, a charming log cabin featuring intriguing archaeological, historical and mining exhibits. Nearby is the original cabin of famous Yukoner, Sam McGee.

Come aboard the fully-restored S.S. Klondike paddle wheeler berthed on the Yukon River, or take a cruise through Miles Canyon where many an unfortunate gold rusher smashed their boats. In the evening, join the fun watching the Can-Can show at the Frantic Follies Vaudeville Revue.

The Yukon Transportation Museum displays items belonging to the First Nations' people, including skin boats, snowshoes, dogsleds, and a full size replica of the Queen of the Yukon, sister airplane of the Spirit of St. Louis. Stop by the new Yukon Beringia Interpretative Centre for a glimpse of the history and culture of Canada's First People.

To the north is Dawson City, once home to 19th-century gold seekers. Today, you can sidle up to the gaming tables or stroll the wooden sidewalks exploring buildings erected over 100 years ago.

Winnipeg, Manitoba

The city of Winnipeg is a playground of cultural variety, arts, and history. Don't miss The Forks where the Red River and Assiniboine River meet - 56 acres of shops, ethnic food kiosks and river walkways.

In the French Quarter of St. Boniface, the largest French-Canadian community west of Quebec, you can explore Promenade Tach, Louis Riel's tomb and the ruins of a grand basilica. Visit the famous Leo Mol Sculpture Garden where you'll find a unique collection of religious, wildlife and celebrity bronze sculptures. At the Manitoba Museum of Man and Nature, board a 17th-century ship and find yourself in Hudson Bay, face-to-face with a polar bear.

Relive the drama of the fur trade at Lower Fort Garry where costumed guides recreate 19th-century life in North America's oldest fur trade fort still intact. Or test your luck at the marvellous Crystal Casino, set on the seventh floor of the Hotel Fort Garry, one of Winnipeg's grandest historical landmarks. Or enjoy a performance by the city's world-class symphony orchestra or the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.

Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

A contrast of log buildings and luxury hotels, caribou steaks and caviar, dog teams and modern jets, this territorial capital city of 17,000 hardy Yellowknifers celebrates its past while thriving in the modern day.

First Nations culture is evident everywhere you go, and must-visit places include Dettah - a Dogrib Indian community - to see exquisite native crafts. For an in-depth look at the history and lifestyles of the northern peoples, including the Dene and Inuit cultures, visit The Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre.

Yellowknife's Courthouse brings history alive with the intriguing Sissons Collection - carvings that depict many of the interesting cases tried by Judge Sissons throughout the North. Tour the Legislative Assembly Building to see the Legislative chambers, Members' offices and meeting rooms.

Finally for the outdoor lover, walk the 7.5-mile Frame Lake Trail, connecting Petitot Park with Fred Henne / Long Lake Territorial Park and experience the rugged beauty of the Northwest Territories for yourself.