Where to Go (and Where Not to Go) in Canada

Canada is cold. In fact, right now it's too cold even for Canada. Even the penguins at Toronto Zoo are requesting hats and scarves. But there's more to Canada than the temperature. Walk with us now as we guide you through Canada's hotspots (figuratively speaking) as well as highlighting what to avoid.

If you're travelling to British Columbia, we would recommend the Butchart Gardens in Brentwood Bay on Vancouver Island. Established by Robert and Jennie Butchart in the early 20th century, the Butchart Gardens provide a glorious collection of flora, birds and outstanding bronze sculptures. Old Québec, a historic neighbourhood in Quebec made up of an 'Upper Town' and a 'Lower Town' is a UNESCO World Heritage site offering a fascinating insight into Quebec's history as well as being home to a plethora of charming side-streets, cafés and shops.

If adventure is more your bag, we suggest heading for the Rocky Mountains. However don't just grab some rope, put on your best spiky boots and hope for the best. The majority of the Rocky Mountains is protected by public parks so you'll need a permit. Plus mountain schools operate in the Rockies, leading regular trips around this vast mountain range, so be safe and do it properly, ya hear? It's a very family-friendly location too, offering a wide range of activities including hiking, biking, fishing, skiing, snowboarding and even gondola rides.

And then of course, there's Niagara Falls. Comprising of three separate waterfalls, Niagara Falls is a truly magnificent and unforgettable destination, straddling the border between the United States and Canada. Watch from the observation decks or take a boat ride to get a little closer to its immense power which plays a large part in the production of renewable energy.

We may have to do a 'Part 2' for this post as there are literally hundreds of wonderful places to visit in Canada. But for now, let's turn our attentions to places not to visit. Let us not forget that a vast portion of Canada is wilderness so if you're looking to go off the beaten-track for some extreme hiking action, you might be wise to look out for the following inhabitants:

The Massasauga Rattler - This is Canada's only poisonous snake. It's distinctive rattle should give you enough warning to walk in the opposite direction, though it will only bite humans if it feels threatened.

The Black Bear - This beautiful but dangerous beast is responsible for ten Canadian deaths in the last ten years. They are similar to grizzly bears in that they do not view humans as prey and will only attack if surprised or defending their offspring. In fact, if you see a black bear, it may try a few 'mock charges' to make you leave. We wouldn't argue with that.

The Moose - An animal that is likely to charge at you (and mean it) is the country's own mascot. Apart from being the cause of many a driving accident, the moose is also a dangerous animal that - when threatened or cornered - will attack a human with its front and back legs. They attack humans more than bears and wolves combined and although the results are rarely fatal, take it from us you're going to be sore in the morning.

If you're holidaying in Canada, moving to Canada for studies or taking up residence with your family, don't forget to talk to us - we can move your personal belongings and excess baggage for you, door-to-door, at a very reasonable price. We're experts in shipping to Canada, after all. As well as places to go in Canada. And...places not to.