The country of the maple leaf, Canada, is one of the most fascinating places to be for tourists from any part of the world. Be it the snow capped peaks or the exciting sporting scene of Toronto, or even the fantastic blend of international cuisines served here, there's something for everybody.
Banff & Jasper National Parks: Easily the most scenic setting in the entire American continent (and possibly, the world), both these national parks are nothing short of a marvel on the face of earth. Every sight looks like a high-definition photograph in one of the calenders or postcards that are sent by friends or relatives from abroad. There are phenomenal mountains everywhere, and one will really have to exercise a lot of self control not to click pictures of everything! The white pine trees, and rapid rivers charting their own course in the hills, also make this place an ideal camp site, if only it were possible! And to top it all, there are also huge glaciers that seem to flow down the peaks and almost touch the road, as well as lakes in blue-green hues that almost resemble an artificial lake, but that's nature at its very best.
Toronto: The capital of Canada is the perfect amalgamation of the cultural turbulence of America and the freedom expressed by its adjoining country towards the north.
The residents of this fine city are both open-minded as well as poised about their own selves, in a country that is as multi-cultured as America, if not less. Not many decades ago, Toronto was known as an 'icebox' town, but owing to numerous immigration phases that included Europeans, Latin Americans, Caribbean and Asians shifting base to the city, the situation improved dramatically, and today, one in every two Torontonians was born outside of Canada. Despite the fact that the sports team here does not fare very well, fans are still ever enthusiastic about sports. Art too, has a very prolific stage here, with literature and music having their fare share of connoisseurs. In September, at the onset of winters, the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) gives the city the typical Hollywood style treatment with street festivals, rock concerts, red carpets, et al. The dining scene is as multi-cultured as the people of Toronto, with Indian, Oriental and Italian cuisine being the order of the day. Similar is the case with shopping, as all the leading fashion brands have stores in Toronto.Queen Charlotte Islands: Known more popularly by its First Nations name, Haida, Gwaii, the Queen Charlotte Islands have since forever been popularized for their flora and fauna. However, the real essence of the islands is the Haida culture, which is also having a fantastic imprint on nature, as the last remaining lot of the old-growth rainforests, which are home to some of the world's largest spruce and cedar trees, is being protected, alongside a multitude of species like bald eagles, bears, and many more.
Matrix international calling cards are the perfect companion while travelling to Canada, since they proved fantastic call quality without the high international roaming charges, to make sure that one always talks as much as he/she wants without worrying about the bill.