Canada. If you like nature you like Canada, too.
11:54 Canada. If you like nature you like Canada, too. | |
 Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to visit Canada for a stay of (generally) up to six months. Andorra, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Brunei, Cayman Islands, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Falkland Islands, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Holy See, Hong Kong (BN(O) Passport or SAR Passport), Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel (National Passport holders only), Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania (biometric passports only), Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montserrat, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Papua New Guinea, Pitcairn Islands, Poland (biometric passports only), Portugal, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Samoa, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Spain, St. Helena, Sweden, Slovenia, Switzerland, Taiwan (must be ordinary passport including personal identification number), Turks and Caicos Islands, United Kingdom (including British (Overseas) Citizens who are re-admissible to the UK and British subjects with the right of abode in the UK) and United States. Please be aware that citizens of the above-mentioned countries that "do not need a visa" may need additional visas/permits if they have a criminal record and are thus considered "criminally inadmissible to Canada". Canada's official measurements are metric, however some people, especially those aged 40 and over, will still use the imperial system for many things. One of the most common holdovers from the imperial system is the use of feet and inches for measurement of short distances and heights, and especially the use of pounds for masses, even among younger Canadians. However in the province of Quebec, the metric system is used more widely by the population. You will still hear older Canadians use the term 'mile' when referring to informal distances, and may also give temperatures in Fahrenheit when referring to pools and hot tubs. All weather forecasts will be in °C, except for border towns such as Windsor and Niagara Falls where media often give weather forecasts in °F. Trying to distil the climate of Canada into an easy-to-understand statement is impossible, given the vast area and diverse geography within the country. Overall, in most places, winters are harsh compared to much of the world, on par with Eurasia. The most populated region, southern Ontario has a less severe climate, similar to the bordering regions of the midwestern and northeastern United States. Iqaluit, the capital of Nunavut, is just south of the Arctic Circle and remains very cold except for the months of July and August, when the July average maximum is only 12°C (54°F). On the other hand, the coastlines of British Columbia are very mild for their latitude, remaining above freezing for most of winter, yet they are not far away from some of the largest mountain glaciers found on the continent. English Canadians may be mystified if you ask where you can get Canadian food. Although you will find some regional specialties, especially at the Eastern and Western edges of the country, in English Canada there isn't much food known as "Canadian" except for maple syrup, nanaimo bars (chocolate-topped no-bake squares with custard or vanilla butter filling and crumb base), buttertarts (tarts made with butter, sugar and eggs), beaver tails (fried dough topped with icing sugar), fiddleheads (curled heads of young ferns), and a few other examples. They are an important, if somewhat humble, part of the Canadian culinary landscape. In other respects, English Canadian cuisine is very similar to that of the northern United States. Canadians may be unaware that they even have national dishes, especially in the more urbanized areas, such as Toronto, and if you ask for a beaver tail or fiddlehead, you may receive nothing but a strange look or a polite giggle. That being said, there is a rising trend among Canadian chefs and restaurateurs to offer locally-produced ingredients, and most major cities have bistros which specialize in local cuisine. This can even include game meat dishes such as caribou, venison, moose, grouse or wild turkey prepared in a variety of European styles. Montreal is well known for its Central and Eastern European Jewish specialties, including local varieties of bagels and smoked meat. In the prairie provinces you can find great Ukrainian food, such as perogies, due to large amounts of Ukrainian immigrants. If you are more adventurous, in the larger cities especially, you will find a great variety of ethnic tastes from all over Europe, Asia and elsewhere. You can find just about any taste and style of food in Canada, from a 20 oz T-Bone with all the trimmings to Japanese sushi (indeed, much of the salmon used in sushi in Japan comes from Canada). Consult local travel brochures upon arrival. They can be found at almost any hotel and are free at any provincial or municipal tourist information centre. You should see wonderful hotels in Canada in your eyes. Comfortable and modern, big and developed. Now look the list of the hotels. 1. Fairmont Hotel Macdonald - Edmonton Standing high on the bank overlooking the largest urban parkway in North America, The North Saskatchewan River Valley, The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald's charm and classic elegance have made us Edmonton's place for every occasion since 1915. Our distinctive guestrooms are well-appointed with state-of-the-art amenities, while the elegant meeting rooms offer the perfect venue for large or small groups. The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald offers exquisite dining opportunities that will tempt your palate with Canadian-style dishes that boast many regional influences. Stroll through the splendid gardens or visit our well-equipped Macdonald Health Club for a workout. Whether for business or pleasure, The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald has the attentive staff and luxurious accommodations to make your stay a graceful complement to the fun that abounds just outside our doors. A stay at the Chateau on the River offers easy walking access to many of the wonderful sites and experiences Edmonton has to offer. Steeped in history, The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald will become part of yours. Prices $150-$300. 2. Fairmont Pacific Rim - Vancoucer An oasis tucked at the ocean's edge, Fairmont Pacific Rim offers unobstructed views of the mountains, Stanley Park and Coal Harbour. The 377-room luxury hotel features lavish appointments, naturally inspired materials, comfortable furnishings and state-of-the-art technology. Looking to relax? Enjoy the Willow Stream spa with outdoor terrace and Jacuzzis, rooftop pool, private cabanas and fire pits, and full exercise room. For meetings, the hotel boasts 15,000 square feet of versatile space, a multi-media theatre, business centre, and direct connection to the Vancouver Convention Centre. Dining options include ORU - a Pan-Asian bistro, Giovane - an Italian cafe, and Lobby Lounge with live entertainment six nights a week. Prices $190-$390. 3. Fairmont Winnipeg Embrace the spirit of the city, with its wide open spaces, blue skies and stunning cityscapes. In the vibrant heart of downtown Winnipeg -- the corner of Portage and Main -- The Fairmont Winnipeg extends the naturally warm reception of the Prairies. Cross the threshold of this city's luxury hotel and instantly be charmed by the exemplary service and discerning surroundings. Unwind with a stunning view of the city from our rooftop pool and health facility and dine at our nationally recognized restaurant. Step outside our doors and the city is at your feet: world class ballet, symphony, baseball, football, hockey and one of the world's largest historical districts. Take advantage of Winnipeg's seasons right from our front door! Featuring a newly renovated conference floor, The Fairmont Winnipeg promises a successful conference, meeting or tradeshow and sets the standard for hospitality in the province. Prices 170$-300$.  4. Park Hyatt - Toronto A classic destination among downtown Toronto hotels, Park Hyatt Toronto is centrally located at the landmark intersection of Avenue Road and Bloor Street in the heart of fashionable Yorkville. With so much to do at our doorstep -- the Royal Ontario Museum, fabulous shopping, the internationally acclaimed Stillwater Spa and renowned sights such as CN Tower, Skydome, Hockey Hall of Fame, and world-class theatre district -- ours is the premium luxury choice among Toronto hotels. It's no wonder Park Hyatt was named the Toronto hotel of choice by Frommer's Toronto Guide Book. Most recently, Park Hyatt Toronto was ranked the #1 hotel in Toronto by Conde Nast Traveler 2004 Readers' Choice Awards. If you're looking for excellent Toronto restaurants, you don't even have to leave your hotel. Enjoy elegant dining and spectacular cuisine when you visit the Park Hyatt Toronto restaurants. Looking for a little relaxing evening entertainment? Visit our lounges, where sophisticated atmosphere and an impressive beverage list ensure there's something for everyone at our Toronto restaurants. Deluxe Guestrooms range from 300 - 400 square feet and are furnished with either one king size or two full size double beds. The luxurious marble bathroom features a shower/tub combination. The guestrooms are decorated in either warm forest green, taupe and gold accents or shades of taupe with black accents. Prices $210-$430. 5. Le Germain Hotel - Montreal Montreal's trendy downtown district is home to Le Germain, a chic and intimate hotel designed for a hip clientele of leisure and business travelers. Opened in the spring of 1999, this former office building was completely renovated to offer a unique concept in accommodation. Designer accessories combine with contrasting textures, natural earth tones, dark woods, glass, and mirrors to forge a luxurious decor noted for its warmth and comfort. The rooms and suites have the feel of a stylish loft. Taking advantage of the natural light and panoramic views of the city, these havens of peace in the heart of the bustling city let you work in your room without feeling like you're sleeping in your office. Prices $200-$290. 6. Fairmont Empress - Victoria Rising regally on the banks of Victoria's spectacular Inner Harbor, The Fairmont Empress showcases the spirit and energy of Vancouver Island in grand style. Lovingly restored to her turn-of-the-century beauty, The Fairmont Empress captures the grandeur and elegance of a bygone era, while her facilities and services meet the needs of today's traveler. Whether it's 18-holes of golf in a pristine setting or a soothing aromatic massage with essential oils, this luxury chateau-style Island resort offers the perfect escape from the stresses of modern life. From exhilarating ocean-bound whale watching safaris, world-class cultural exhibits and mouth-watering local cuisine to scenic garden and winery tours, you will be awestruck by the countless experiences Victoria and The Fairmont Empress have to offer! Prices $190-$340. 7. Nelligan Hotel - Montreal The Nelligan Hotel is a boutique style hotel concept with 64 comfortable rooms in a contemporary decor set in traditional Old Montreal architecture. Stone and brick walls set the tone for most of the rooms, which are furnished in a sober yet modern fashion, while maintaining a classic feel. The design of Hotel Nelligan is collaboration between Camdi International and CDID Design. The fireplaces in many rooms, the dark wood furniture and custom warm linens create an atmosphere of comfort, unlike anywhere else. The spacious washrooms are both well equipped and practical. On the walls, passages of Emile Nelligan's most beautiful poems are transcribed, immersing guests in this beautiful Quebec poetry. The Hotel Nelligan in its entirety conveys the elegance and warmth of Old Montreal. The entrance hall consists of four distinct areas, each open and leading into the other. Check in at the Reception and let the Concierge assist you with reservations or planning your time in Montreal. Enjoy a cup of coffee by the fireplace and library, while taking in the view of the garden-atrium and spectacular water fountain. Breakfast is served in this area, which doubles as a tearoom in the afternoon. Order an aperitif or cocktail at the bar-salon decorated with hints of leather, rattan and warm woodwork. Enjoy an elegant dinner at the adjoining Verses restaurant specializing in contemporary French cuisine. Prices $185-$320. | |
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