Straddling the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, Canada is renowned for its stunning landscapes. Beyond the picturesque scenery, the world’s second-largest country has gained many fans because of its rich history, friendly locals, and of course, maple syrup.
Here are some various tidbits that should make Canada your next must-visit destination.
According to the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society, Canada’s national parks cover an area larger than Germany. The country offers skiers, snowboarders and other winter sports enthusiasts several options, like the Rocky Mountains and Whistler Blackcomb, in the West Coast.
Chasers of the Northern Lights can catch Nature’s mesmerizing light show from several locations throughout the year, with November to March being the best times to view the phenomena.
Canada is celebrated for its multiculturalism. A report by Statistics Canada said that nearly 20% of the Canadian population was born outside the country. This diversity is not just a testament to Canada’s open immigration policies but also enriches the nation's cultural fabric.
Hockey is more than just a sport in Canada; it’s a national passion. According to a survey conducted by the Canadian Hockey Association, more than 54% of Canadians participate in hockey-related activities. The sport has become an integral part of the Canadian identity, with numerous children aspiring to be the next hockey superstar.
On the food front, Tim Hortons has achieved cult status. According to a report by NPD Group, the iconic coffee and fast food chain dominates the domestic coffee market, serving around 8 out of every 10 cups of coffee sold in the country.
Then, there is the world-famous maple syrup. The world’s largest producer of maple syrup, the country accounts for approximately 71% of global output, The Federation of Quebec Maple Syrup Producers reported. An important contributor to the gross domestic product, maple syrup holds such a high value as a commodity that in 1966, Canada established the world’s only strategic reserve of the product.
Tourists praise Canadians for their politeness and friendliness. A study published in the Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology explored politeness levels in different countries and Canada consistently ranked high.
Meanwhile, Canadians cite the country’s health care system as one source of immense pride.
The Commonwealth Fund, an independent research organization, ranked Canada’s healthcare system as among the best in the world for its free, universal coverage.
Canada is also home to some of the world’s most excellent universities. According to the QS World University Rankings, several Canadian universities consistently feature among the best, attracting thousands of students from all corners of the globe.
