Spring has arrived, and just in time! There is no better time than now to enjoy springtime with Mountain Park Lodges in Jasper. Mountain Park Lodges is unveiling fantastic new packages designed specifically with Midweek travelers in mind.

The outstanding Midweek Special includes the following:

A team of Slimband employees successfully competed in the 19th Annual Canada Life CN Tower Climb for WWF-Canada that took place on April 16th. The CN Tower Climb is a demanding competition in which competitors race up the 1,776 steps (or 144 flights) of the CN Tower. This year more than 400 teams and over 2,200 climbers competed in the Team Challenge division.

The CN Tower Climb is not only a great physical challenge, but also a fantastic fundraising event. The event’s main purpose is to raise funds for the World Wildlife Fund, and in turn combat global warming – our greatest current environmental threat. Slimband’s fundraising efforts contributed over $ 500 to the cause.

The Slimband team, consisting of members David Ku, Ioana Pescarasu, Leo Palermo, Jen Prosen and Yvonne Tsui completed the trial in fantastic time – all well under the average time of 25 – 40 minutes. A standout performance however, was that of Leo Palermo who completed the climb in 15 minutes and 58 seconds, placing him amongst the top 10 competitors.

Slimband congratulates these employees not only on their completion of the climb, but also on their support of the WWF through fund raising efforts.

About Slimband?

Slimband? is one of the largest and most respected weight loss surgery and treatment centers in Canada. Slimband? specializes in reversible laparoscopic weight loss surgery with a unique aftercare program that includes nutritional counseling, coaching, fitness programs and fill adjustments. Clients benefit not only from safe, fast weight loss but also experience increased energy levels and the control or elimination of weight-aggravated conditions like heart disease, high cholesterol, and type II diabetes. Slimband? has helped more than 2,000 patients fulfill their dreams of looking and feeling their best.

###

Travelodge Canada is pleased to announce the opening of three new properties in Western Canada, increasing the total number of Travelodge and Thriftlodge locations within Canada to 95.

The newest addition to Travelodge Canada?s British Columbia properties is the Travelodge Kamloops City Centre featuring an on-site restaurant, heated indoor pool and hot tub. Conveniently located in the heart of the city, the 67 room Travelodge Kamloops City Centre is a great choice for cultural explorers seeking unique shops, outdoor markets and restaurants all within a short walking distance.

The new Thriftlodge Moose Jaw in Saskatchewan will be a welcome addition to travellers making their way across the prairies this summer. The former Knowles Motel features 32 guest rooms and is conveniently located on the Trans-Canada Highway just 7 minutes from the downtown core of Moose Jaw and 45 minutes from the capital of Regina. Kitchenette units with a full fridge and 2 burner top stoves and double units with privacy walls make this a great choice for Canadian travellers.

Also in the province of Saskatchewan, the Travelodge North Battleford Saskatchewan (formerly the Happy Inn) features 86 newly renovated guest rooms, suites and kitchenette units. An indoor swimming pool complete with a 250 foot waterslide and hot tub make the new Travelodge North Battleford a great choice for families travelling in Saskatchewan this summer.

Travelodge guests earn Travelodge Guest Rewards points and Hbc Rewards points for each qualifying stay at any Travelodge or Thriftlodge in Canada. In May 2011, Travelodge Canada introduced three new maritime properties establishing locations from coast to coast. With 95 properties across Canada, Travelodge guests can expect Nice Rooms, Great People in convenient locations, affordable accommodations and access to standard free amenities like in-room coffee, weekday lobby newspapers, complimentary high speed internet access and complimentary continental breakfast at participating locations.

About Travelodge Canada

Travelodge (Canada), an operating division of Royal Host Limited Partnership, administers the Master License for Travelodge and Thriftlodge in Canada. Royal Host Inc. holds 100% (directly and indirectly) of the voting securities of Royal Host Limited Partnership. Royal Host Inc. shares and convertible debentures are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange.

For more information, please contact

Patti Hunt

Director, Marketing & Communications

Travelodge Canada

P.O. Box 45030, RPO Brentwood

Calgary, AB

People have heard of Vancouver, but there are many other beautiful spots to visit in British Columbia, especially during the summer. Here are 5 of the most interesting places to visit in BC.

1.The Okanagan Valley, situated a 4 hour drive from Vancouver, runs 120 kilometers from Vernon to Penticton. The area is known for a dry climate and the temperatures during the summer range from 25 to 40°C. It is the only recognized desert area in Canada, complete with rattlesnakes and black widow spiders. There are many lakes in the region for recreational boating, fishing, swimming, and sailing. The area is also known for its cottage wineries, many of which have taken awards worldwide.

Penticton offers convention facilities and is also popular as a casino destination. It’s location 1 hour from the international border makes it easily accessible to Washington residents. The south end of the lake is also warm and shallow for all ages of bathers.

Kelowna is the largest city in the valley. Big White Ski Resort is popular for both winter and summer recreation. Mountain biking and hiking is available in the summer season. The downtown park offers many music and dance venues all summer long and the boardwalk along the water is a perfect place to stroll on a warm evening.

One of the most beautiful lakes in the Canada is situated in Vernon, at the north end of the valley. Kalamalka, the lake of many colours, is a great lake for boating and swimming. Well groomed hiking trails lead down to secluded parks, a perfect way to spend a day. Silver Star Mountain, a high altitude training facility, is located 20 minutes from the city and also has excellent hiking and mountain biking trails. The temperature is also 5 degrees cooler at the mile high mountain when a person wants to escape the summer heat.

2. The Cariboo is located a day’s drive out of Vancouver. When the California gold rush petered out, prospectors made their way north to the British Columbia gold fields. Many of the stagecoach stops along the way still have markers and places like 100 Mile House and 108 Mile House are interesting stops. Turn off the highway at 150 Mile House and travel an hour into Likely and check out the old hotel situated on the shores of Quesnel Lake (pronounced quenel).

There is an old rough road that goes across the mountains to Barkerville. Or the town can be reached off the main highway, just an hour east of the city of Quesnel. It is one of the most historical regions in British Columbia. Each summer, the story of the northern gold rush is presented by a troupe of actors and singers. The townsite of Barkerville has been recreated to represent how it was in the olden days. The original graveyard still stands, tucked in against the hill, protected from the harsh, winter elements.

3. Another area that shouldn’t be missed is Stewart, BC. It is a 2 ½ day drive from Vancouver located north of Houston, BC. Stewart, BC and Hyder, Alaska share common shopping facilities and accommodations. If you are lucky, you might be able to get your passport stamped as you cross the border, if anyone is working at the time. Both are villages located on the coast. It’s one of the few areas you could possibly observe families of grizzlies and other bear species out for their morning fishing excursion. Less than a ½ hour drive away is the Hyder Icefields, an unbelievable iceflow mass that extends into the valley. Don’t forget to take the opportunity to get “hyderized.” Only those who have experienced the famous drink can talk about it. You have to be there! Make sure you have inside accommodations because no tent camping is allowed in the area.

4. If you are just visiting BC for a couple of days, the Sunshine Coast is a beautiful area to visit. The trip begins in Horseshoe Bay, a small fishing village situated 20 minutes out of Vancouver. Take time to have some of the famous chowder or fish and chips available at one of the local restaurants while you wait for the ferry.

The first part of the trip is a relaxing journey on the Langdale Ferry to Gibson’s Landing. During the 60s a popular weekly drama called The BeachCombers was filmed in Gibson’s. Molley’s Reach, the program’s main set, is still a popular place to stop.

You can then drive further up the coast as far as Eggmont. There are many stops in between like Robert’s Creek and Sechelt and Halfmoon Bay. The whole area has gained a great reputation for B&Bs in the last few years, many offering spa facilities. With the fantastic scenery and mild temperatures, it is the perfect place to enjoy time away on a short holiday.

If you travel up to Powell River, you can take the ferry across to Vancouver Island and do a circle route back to the mainland.

5. Vancouver Island is also a short journey from Vancouver. There is ferry service from Tswassen or Horseshoe Bay, both located less than a ½ hour drive from downtown. For those travelers taking a weekend break, Victoria, BC’s Capital City, is a great spot to visit. The Bouchard Gardens and the Empress Hotel are definitely sites to take in. Check out the following site for more information on some of the things to do. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YS8PALHNx4E

If you have a week or two, plan to spend some time exploring up island. Long Beach and Tofino are well known for being a surfer’s paradise. Make sure you pack your dry-suit with you because the waters are pretty chilly. Whale watching is very popular in the area too. For a longer, more adventurous vacation, consider checking out the Westcoast Trail. Reservations must be made up to a year in advance.

Vancouver Island and the surrounding islands are also famous for their artisans. Whether you are looking for pottery, sculpture, paintings, or carvings it’s worth checking the area out.

British Columbia is such a diverse province with so much to offer to the tourist.

Squeeze perform ‘Some Fantastic Place’ from the album of the same name on the Danny Baker show. Do you think he likes them? Visit www.squeezeofficial.com for details of gigs.
Video Rating: 4 / 5

So you’re planning a trip to Toronto. But what is there to do in this sprawling metropolis? Whether your interests run to the arts, history, architecture, food, or family activities, there’s something fantastic for everyone, as long as you know where to go.

The Distillery District

Located at 55 Mill Street, the Distillery District is a group of restored Victorian distillery buildings that now house some of the hippest galleries, shops and restaurants in the city. The beams and bricks are left open inside many of the buildings, showing the architecture to best advantage. In this pedestrian-only area, no matter which of the cobblestone streets you take, you will find some hidden gems.

Just inside the entrance gates, the wafting scent of baking bread and pastries of the Brick Street Bakery tempt you immediately. Their eccles, bakewell tarts and artisan breads remind one of an earlier time, and set the mood perfectly for the rest of the District. On a cold day, after a little bit of exploring, you might venture into Balzac’s Coffee, one of the city’s best coffeehouses. One thing you will not want to miss is Soma Chocolate and Gelato. Upon opening the door the decadent and overpowering smell of melted chocolate will make your whole body tingle. No trip is complete without trying their signature spicy Mayan Hot Chocolate.

If you are looking for something a little more substantial to eat, you are faced with the difficult decision of which five star restaurant to choose. The Boiler House, which has a live jazz brunch every Sunday, as well as live music Thursday to Saturday evenings, has high ceilings and an excellent wine selection. While somewhat on the pricy side, the food is usually worth it, and the architectural details inside fascinating. Pure Spirits Oyster House, formerly a barrel shipping room, is a little bit busier. Not a lot of room, but a lot of personality. Tappo is a more formal, elegant restaurant, popular for romantic dinners for two.

Among the galleries you wont want to miss are The Blue Dot Gallery and Thompson Landry Cooperage Gallery, both with a focus on internationally recognized contemporary artists. Other galleries contain studios in which you may watch artists painting, weaving or working with other media. Some of the studios have sporadic hours, so visit www.thedistillerydistrict.com where you can find maps, hours and descriptions of all the attractions.

St. Lawrence Market

The oldest market in Toronto, dating to 1803, years have only added to the appeal of this local jewel. Located west of Jarvis Street between King Street and The Esplanade, the market consists of three buildings.

The South Market, with its distinctive historical building, provides the freshest of meat, produce, fish, cheese, and other food products all week long, as well as housing a number of ethnic food stands. For a true Toronto tradition, try a peameal bacon sandwich from one of the stalls on the upper west side of the building.

The North Market opens on Saturday at 5:00 a.m. for the weekly Farmer’s Market. It is virtually impossible to pass through here without buying some gorgeous in-season fruits or vegetables. In the courtyard outside this building there are often artisans selling beautiful handmade goods.

For hours and special events, visit www.stlawrencemarket.com.

Harbourfront

Just southwest of the St. Lawrence Market lies Toronto’s Harbourfront area. A number of stages, outdoor festival venues, indoor galleries and a skating rink make this a hub of activity year-round. From dance performances to storytelling to ethnic festivals, the cultural organization which operates Harbourfront Centre provides infinite variety. Visit www.harbourfrontcentre.com for up-to-date details of what’s on.

Also from Harbourfront you can catch a ferry to Centre Island. This lovely car-free zone provides 600 acres of beautiful parkland crisscrossed by bike paths, picnic spots, and is home to the Centreville Amusement Park and Franklin Children’s Garden. It is an ideal spot for lovers, friends or families.

Kensington Market and Chinatown

Another famous market in Toronto, Kensington Market, has an entirely different atmosphere. Nestled amid the large, bustling Chinatown area, row upon row of colourful little shops are crammed into one of the cities most multicultural areas. Whether you are looking for the best Jamaican patties in town at Patty King, fresh and unusual cheeses at Cheese Magic, fruits, vegetables, vintage or exotic Indian clothing, or just about anything else, you’ll probably find it here. A walk along Dundas Street between Spadina and Bellevue will take you past the sights and smells of Chinatown’s best markets and eateries, and a little detour onto Augusta or Kensington Avenue will have you thinking you’ve tumbled down the rabbit hole.

Dundas Square

For lovers of free concerts, festivals and outdoor movies, Dundas Square at the corner of Yonge and Dundas is the place to visit. All summer long you will find events scheduled every night of the week. Every Tuesday at sunset during the summer another film is shown, free to all. Bring a lawn chair and watch the movie – or the people! Otherwise, Friday to Sunday from May to October you can visit the outdoor artisan market there and pick up a beautiful handmade souvenir.

Family Attractions

Toronto is too full of family-friendly sites to list them all in one article. Suffice it to say the internationally renowned Art Gallery of Ontario, Royal Ontario Museum and Toronto Zoo are all both educational and mesmerizing. The Ontario Science Centre contains educational and scientific machines, technological displays and activities that are so much fun for kids, they’ll be begging for more. It also houses Toronto’s IMAX Dome which shows movies that overwhelm the senses.

Truly, you can never run out of great things to do in Toronto. Make the most of your Toronto vacation and plan to visit some of its most amazing sights. You will never forget the memories created in this fabulous metropolitan playground.

Find More Exotic Canada Articles

10. Lena River, Russia: 2,734 miles

The Lena is the easternmost of the three great Siberian rivers that flow into the Arctic Ocean (the other two being the Ob River and the Yenisei River). It is the 10th longest river in the world and has the 9th largest watershed. It is the greatest Russian river with its watershed entirely within national ranges. Rising at the height of 1,640 metres (5,381 ft) at its source in the Baikal Mountains south of the Central Siberian Plateau, 7 kilometres (4 mi) west of Lake Baikal, the Lena flows northeast, being joined by the Kirenga River, Vitim River and Olyokma River. From Yakutsk it enters the lowlands and flows north until joined by its right-hand affluent the Aldan River. The Verkhoyansk Range deflects it to the north-west; then, after receiving its most important left-hand tributary, the Vilyuy River, it makes its way nearly due north to the Laptev Sea, a division of the Arctic Ocean, emptying south-west of the New Siberian Islands by the Lena Delta – 30,000 square kilometres (11,583 sq mi) in area, and traversed by seven principal branches, the most important being Bykov, farthest east. -wikipedia.org

9. Amur River, Northeast Asia: 2,744 miles

The Amur River, or Heilong Jiang, or Sahaliyan Ula, is the world’s ninth longest river, forming the border between the Russian Far East and Northeastern China. It rises in the hills of western Manchuria at the confluence of its two major affluents, the Shilka River and the Argun River, at an elevation of 303 metres (994 ft). It flows east forming the border between China and Russia, and slowly makes a great arc to the southeast for about 400 kilometres (250 mi), receiving many tributaries and passing many small towns. At Huma, it is joined by a major tributary, the Huma River. Afterwards it continues to flow south until between the cities of Blagoveschensk (Russia) and Heihe (China), it widens significantly as it joins the Zeya River, one of its most important tributaries. -wikipedia.org

8. Congo River, Central Africa: 2,914 miles

The Congo River (also known as the Zaire River) is the largest river in Western Central Africa. Its overall length of 4,700 km (2,920 mi) makes it the second longest in Africa (after the Nile). The river and its tributaries flow through the Congo Rainforest, the second largest rain forest area in the world, second only to the Amazon Rainforest in South America. The river also has the second-largest flow in the world, behind the Amazon; the second-largest drainage basin of any river, again trailing the Amazon; and is the deepest river in the world, at depths greater than 230 m (750 ft). Its drainage basin is slightly larger than that of the Mississippi. Because large sections of the river basin lie above and below the Equator, its flow is stable, as there is always at least one part of the river experiencing a rainy season. The Congo gets its name from the ancient Kingdom of Kongo which inhabited the lands at the mouth of the river. The Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Republic of the Congo, both countries lying along the river’s banks, are named after it. Between 1971 and 1997 the government of then-Zaire called it the Zaire River. -wikipedia.org

7. Ob-Irtysh, Russia: 3,354 miles

The Ob River, also Obi, is a major river in western Siberia, Russia. It is the country’s fourth longest. The Ob River also has the longest estuary in the world. The Ob is formed 16 miles (26 km) southwest of Biysk in Altai Krai by the confluence of the Biya and Katun rivers. Both these streams have their origin in the Altay Mountains, the Biya issuing from Lake Teletskoye, the Katun, 80 miles (130 km) long, bursting out of a glacier on Mount Byelukha. The Ob zigzags west and north until it reaches 55° N, where it curves round to the northwest, and again north, wheeling finally eastwards into the Gulf of Ob, a 600-mile (970 km)-long bay of the Kara Sea, which adjoins the Arctic Ocean. -wikipedia.org

6. Huang He, China: 3,395 miles

The Yellow River or Huang He / Hwang Ho is the second-longest river in China (after the Yangtze River) and the sixth-longest in the world at the estimated length of 5,464 kilometers (3,395 mi) Originating in the Bayan Har Mountains in Qinghai Province in western China, it flows through nine provinces of China and empties into the Bohai Sea. The Yellow River basin has an east-west extent of 1900 km (1,180 mi) and a north-south extent of 1100 km (684 mi). Total basin area is 742,443 km² (290,520 mi²). The Yellow River is called “the cradle of Chinese civilization”, as its basin is the birthplace of the northern Chinese civilizations and was the most prosperous region in early Chinese history. But frequent devastating flooding largely due to the elevated river bed in its lower course, has also earned it the unenviable name “China’s Sorrow”. -wikipedia.org

Do you like this article? You can write articles like this and make money from it. It is free to join and you can make money online as soon as you sign-up. Click on the link to Sign-up with Bukisa.com and starting making some good money on the internet.

5. Yenisey, Russia: 3,434 miles

Yenisei, also written as Yenisey, is the greatest river system flowing to the Arctic Ocean. Rising in Mongolia, it follows a northerly course to the Yenisei Gulf in the Kara Sea, draining a large part of central Siberia, the longest stream following the Yenisei-Angara-Selenga-Ider.  The upper reaches, subject to rapids and flooding, pass through sparsely populated areas. The middle section is controlled by a series of massive hydroelectric dams fuelling significant Russian primary industry. Partly built by gulag labor in Soviet times, industrial contamination remains a serious problem in an area hard to police. Moving on through sparsely-populated taiga, the Yenisei swells with numerous tributaries and finally reaches the Kara Sea in desolate tundra where it is icebound for more than half the year.  Maximum depth of Yenisei River is 80 feet (24 m) and average depth is 45 feet (14 m). The depth of river goes outflow 106 feet (32 m) and river goes inflow 101 feet (31 m). -wikipedia.org

4. Mississippi-Missouri River, USA: 3,870 miles

The Mississippi River is the largest river system in the United States and the largest of North America. About 2,320 miles (3,730 km) long, the river originates at Lake Itasca, Minnesota and flows slowly southwards in sweeping meanders, terminating 95 river miles below New Orleans, Louisiana where it begins to flow to the Gulf of Mexico. Along with its major tributary, the Missouri River, the river drains all or parts of 31 U.S. states stretching from the Rocky Mountains in the west to the Appalachian Mountains in the east to the Canada-U.S. border on the north, including most of the Great Plains, and is the fourth longest river in the world and the tenth most powerful river in the world. -wikipedia.org

3. Chang Jiang (Yangtze) River, China: 3,917 miles

The Yangtze River, or Chang Jiang (Cháng Jiāng; literally “The Long River”), Tibetan: ‘Bri-chu, is the longest river in China and Asia, and the third-longest in the world. The river is about 6,300 kilometres (3,915 mi) and flows from its source in Qinghai Province, eastwards into the East China Sea at Shanghai. It acts as a dividing line between North and South China, although geographers generally consider the Qinling-Huai River line to be the official line of geographical division. As the largest river in the region, the Yangtze is historically, culturally, and economically important to China. One of the dams on the river, the Three Gorges Dam, is the largest hydro-electric power station in the world. The section of the river flowing through deep gorges in Yunnan province is part of the Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas: a UNESCO World Heritage Site. -wikipedia.org

2. Amazon River, South America: 3,980 miles

The Amazon River (Portuguese: Rio Amazonas; Spanish: Río Amazonas; pronounced /ˈæməzɒn/ (US); /ˈæməzən/ (UK)) of South America is the largest river in the world by volumetric discharge, with a total river flow greater than the next ten largest rivers combined. The Amazon, which has the largest drainage basin in the world, accounts for approximately one-fifth of the world’s total river flow.[1]  In its upper stretches the Amazon river is called Apurímac (in Peru) and Solimões (in Brazil).  During the wet season, parts of the Amazon exceed 190 kilometres (120 mi) in width. Because of its vast dimensions, it is sometimes called The River Sea. At no point is the Amazon crossed by bridges.[2] This is not because of its huge dimensions; in fact, for most of its length, the Amazon’s width is well within the capability of modern engineers to bridge. However, the bulk of the river flows through tropical rainforest, where there are few roads and even fewer cities, so there is no need for crossings. -wikipedia.org

1. Nile, North/East Africa: 4,135 miles

The Nile is a major north-flowing river in Africa, generally regarded as the longest river in the world.[1]  The Nile has two major tributaries, the White Nile and Blue Nile, the latter being the source of most of the Nile’s water and fertile soil, but the former being the longer of the two. The White Nile rises in the Great Lakes region of central Africa, with the most distant source in southern Rwanda at 2°16′55.92″S 29°19′52.32″E / 2.2822°S 29.3312°E / -2.2822; 29.3312, and flows north from there through Tanzania, Lake Victoria, Uganda and southern Sudan, while the Blue Nile starts at Lake Tana in Ethiopia at 12°2′8.8″N 37°15′53.11″E / 12.035778°N 37.2647528°E / 12.035778; 37.2647528, flowing into Sudan from the southeast. The two rivers meet near the Sudanese capital of Khartoum.  The northern section of the river flows almost entirely through desert, from Sudan into Egypt, a country whose civilization has depended on the river since ancient times. Most of the population and cities of Egypt lie along those parts of the Nile valley north of Aswan, and nearly all the cultural and historical sites of Ancient Egypt are found along the banks of the river. The Nile ends in a large delta that empties into the Mediterranean Sea.-wikipedia.org

Did you like this article? You can write articles like this and make money from it. It is free to join and you can make money online as soon as you sign-up. Click on the link to Sign-up with Bukisa.com and starting making some good money on the internet.

:

The Tallest Waterfalls in the World

The Largest Insects In The World

The World’s Largest Ships

The World’s Tallest Trees

REPTILE SHOW Canadian Reptile Breeders’ & Exotic Pet Expo – Mississauga Reptile Show. Montreal Reptile Show. Ottawa Reptile Show Home | Dates | Admission | Location | Vendors | Registration Doors Open at 9am to 4pm February 22, 2009 May 3, 2009 June 14, 2009 November 22, 2009 EXPO NEWS Well here we grow again.Yes the Reptile Expo is has outgrown our past home.So we are moving digs with the anticipation that we will be inviting our close family members from the world of exotic pets to our regular events.Yes this is now theOntario Reptile and Exotic Pet Expo…. A first for Canada. Exclusive to Mississauga now visitors can enjoy the displays of reptiles and other exotics all under one roof. What is the Ontario Reptile and Exotic Pet Expo? The Ontario Reptile and Exotic Pet Expo is an event which allows individuals that have the same enthusiasm and passion for herpetoculture and aquaculture to gather in one location to share their experiences, their history and their concerns for the animals they all enjoy working with. “Herpetoculture” a word pegged by the late Tom Huff defined as the science and or keeping of reptiles. As is the definition of Aquaculture. At one time a sub ground hobby the keeping of reptiles, it has now become one of the fastest growing areas within the pet world. With this growth level also comes a much larger responsibility to the animals in which we care for. One of the many objectives of The Ontario Reptile and Exotic Pet Expo is to assist in the …
Video Rating: 4 / 5

Related Exotic Canada Articles

Unprepared trips sometimes bring about wonderful surprises.  Several summers ago,  I had vaguely planned a short escapade to Quebec city.  However, one of my friends persuaded me to acompany her to Gaspe Peninsula, a destination she had  briefly toured the previous autumn and which had completely enticed her.  At first, I had been reluctant to visit this Quebec region which had always appeared so remote, because I am not a very outdoor person.  Yet, despite a little anticipation, I accepted her invitation, mostly on account of my desire to explore new places.  Consequently, following a few days in Quebec city, a detour to l’Ile d’Orleans and several stopovers along the drive, we finally reached the peninsula.  To my astonishment, the majestic, measureless and arresting panorama, which comprises a profusion of mountains, valleys, parks, beaches and lakes, enhanced by the omnipresence of the sea, mesmerized me instantly.  I have visited many fascinating sites in North America and in Europe, but Gaspe is the most beautiful place I have ever seen.  I’m not sure whether it’s because the trip was spontaneous or because I had no idea of what to expect, but I felt a good, happy feeling throughout the whole journey, the kind of sensation you have when you fall in love.             

Gaspesie is not a motionless panorama, it is dynamic, alive.  There is so much to see and do! The peninsula offers a wide choice of hiking and interpretation trails and activities such as hunting, salmon and trout fishing, deepwater excursions, cruises and swimming.  There are hundreds of towns and villages to visit, each with their own little cachet.  For those who love cultural activities, there are craft shops, art galleries, theatres and museums. It is also an idyllic destination for lovers, not only because it is extremely vast, but because it is submerged with isolated alcoves, bays and inlets.  Another good reason to visit Gaspesie is the food.  As all regions situated by the sea, travellers may savour regional dishes and fresh caught fish and seafood, prepared according to old-fashioned local recipes or cooked “à la moderne”.  And last but not least:  the hospitability!  Gaspesiens are warm people who are very proud of their region.  They love to recommend unusual sights while relating anecdotes of their native village’s history, their elocution colored by a unique regional French accent.

 Gaspesie or Gaspe Peninsula is hundreds of thousands of years old and constitutes one of the oldest masses on earth, but one of the last to be populated by human beings.  It was fish that first brought people to the region.  The Micmacs, “the Indians of the Sea”, have lived on the peninsula for over 2,500 years.  They named the peninsula Gespeg, meaning “land’s end”.  A panoply of nationalities including Acadian, Loyalist, Breton, Basque, English, Jersey, Irish and Scots subsequently colonized the territory.   Anglophones accounted for 40% of the population half a century ago, but are now just over 10%.   Nowadays, on account of large exodus resulting from unemployment, accentuated during the last decade by  the decline in small-scale agriculture, the depletion of mineral and forest resources, the closing of paper mills such as the Gaspesia (scheduled to re-open soon)and the collapse of the fishing industry,  there are  approximately 80, 000 inhabitants residing in the region. 

 Located on the eastern tip of the province of Quebec, north of New Brunswick, Gaspe is divided into five distinctive natural sectors:  The Coast, Upper Gaspe, Land’s End, The Bay and The Valley.  A tour around the entire region takes at least ten days as the territory covers 800 kilometres – back and forth. 

The Coast

Following a lengthy drive along the gorgeous Saint-Laurent seaside,  we reached an exceptional floral location.  Les Jardins de Metis, accessible to the public from June to mid-October, enclose more than 500 native and exotic species and varieties of perennial and annual plants, bushes and trees, cultivated in the six ornamental gardens.  Lilies, Pinocchio polyantha roses, Pink Peace hybrid tea roses and larkspur can be found, to name just a few.  Declared a national historic site in 1996, it is the only authentic historic gardens in Quebec and among the most beautiful ornamental gardens in Canada.  A very popular tourist attraction, it has received more than 100,000 visitors a year since the 1990s.  It is doubtful that Elsie Reford ever imagined that one day her gardens would suscite such admiration.  For more than thirty years, she worked as an amateur horticulturist, collecting plants, cultivating them in the land she had inherited from her uncle, Lord Mount Stephen, first President of Canadian Pacific.  The property of the Quebec government during many decades, the Metis Gardens are now administrated by Alexander Reford, the founder’s great grand-son.  Another attraction of the park is the luxurious 37-room villa, formerly Mrs Reford’s residence, which presently houses a restaurant, a museum and a crafts shop. Throughout the season, the Villa Reford regularly hosts concerts, exhibitions, workshops and lectures. 

 We then made a little stop in Matane, a town reputed for its “Festival de la Crevette”.  After a hearty meal of delicious shrimps, we continued our journey.  We lingered very shortly at the dominant appeal of Upper Gaspe:  Parc de la Gaspesie.  The park encloses more than 240 kilometres of interpretation trails and looms as a vast, rugged region created by profound valleys betweeen peaks ranging up to 4,160 feet.  It forms a segment of the structure of the Appalachian chain; the Chic-Choc mountains comprise its spine.  This is one of the few places in Quebec where one discovers within the same territory, according to the vegetation and the climate, caribou, moose and deer.  The interpretation centre has a permanent exhibition, slide shows and many activities to offer.

   LAND’S END

 We were eager to reach Land’s End, the most popular destination of the peninsula.  Three superb forcal settings are located in this area:  Gaspe, Bonaventure Island and Perce.   We stopped briefly at Cap-des-Rosiers to tour the 37 metre-high lighthouse built in 1858,  the highest in Canada.  It was in this small municipality, which is part of  the city of Gaspé,  that in 1759, an officer caught sight of English general Wolfe’s fleet (during the war between the French and the English over la Nouvelle-France) and immediately sent a messenger to Québec city.  Cap-des-Rosiers has witnessed many shipwrecks and is the gateway to Forillon National Park, which we visited later.  We were eager to arrive in Perce.  We initially reserved accomodations for one night, but the motel clerk  informed us that a single day would not suffice to explore this renowned section.  Since all sites are situated at neighbouring proximity and it was getting increasingly difficult to find vacancy, we considered his suggestion and reserved two additional nights.

 Perce is a charming little village which assimilates the languorous flavour of a medittteranean town and the verve of a dynamic city.  There are many restaurants, accomodations and quite a heavy movement, compared to the other small towns.  From 1930 to 1960, it was a very popular cultural centre.  Artists flocked to the village, drawn by its magnetism and by the picturesque aspect of the fishermen.  However, travellors have always been  fascinated by the Perce Rock, the emblem of the Gaspe peninsula.   It was named by Samuel de Champlain, founder of the province of Québec,  for its pierced (percé) profile.  The giant boulder,  the result of an erosive work of 375 million years, is flanked by a smaller tower and stands as a massive block of five million tons,  85 meters high, 30 meters large and 433 meters long. 

 The following day we drove to Gaspe, which is the administrative centre for the whole sector and the railway terminus.  Interestingly, it is the only town in the world with a national park – Parc Forillon- and several magnificent bodies of water lying within town limits:  three salmon rivers, Gaspe Bay and the sea stretching out to the horizon.  It is also culturally diversified, including members of the Anglophone, Francophone and Micmac communities.   However, what is most striking is that  a multitude of restaurants, streets, bars, etc, include the terms “1534” or “Jacques Cartier” in their appellations!  Indeed, it is in Gaspe that the official history of Canada started when French discoverer Jacques Cartier raised a wooden cross, thus taking possession of Canada, then Nouvelle France, in the name of the king of  France on July 24, 1534.  A unique aspect in the city is the cathedral, which is the only wooden one in North America and has a magnificent stained glass window and a fresco, given by France in 1934 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Jacques Cartier’s arrival.  A granite crucifix of  30 feet,  opposite the cathedral commemorates the historic event.  We also visited Gaspe’s museum which houses  the largest exhibit ever prepared on the Frenchman’s first voyage in 1534.  Jacques Cartier: the discovery of a new worldinvites visitors to accompany him through his exploration of the Gaspe shores. 

We then spent an entire afternoon on Bonaventure Island.  Access is possible only by boat, from the end of may to mid-october. During the voyage, a fabulous scene awaited us as tens of thousands of birds sunbathed on the boulders or bustled near the cliffs.  The location of the island is spectacular as it is framed by the St-Lawrence Gulf, the extraordinary Percé Rock and the Gaspe Coast and surrounded with highlands, peaks and capes.  Acquired by the provincial government in 1971 following a series of expropriations, Bonaventure Island, covering only 5,8 km,  is one of Quebec’s smallest park.  The abundance of wildflowers, the long trails, the blue sky, the mountains and the sun shining over a jewelled sea, procure a sense of infinity.  Le Sentier des Coloniesis 2,8 km long – back and forth  – but is worth the effort.  At the end of the road, you will admire a sanctuary of  200,000 nesting birds, including 50,000 Fous de Bassans (gannets).  It is the second largest colony in the world, behind the one in Scotland. 

 Limited by time, we visited briefly Parc Forillon.  As most parks of the peninsula, it is huge.   The park’s uneven coastline illustratres the powerful contrast between land and sea.  Whale-watching cruises, sea kayaking excursions, swimming, fishing, scuba diving and sailing excursions are among the many activities the park offers. 

   THE BAY

 Jacques Cartier was so impressed with the warm weather of this sector that he named it Baie des Chaleurs.    There are immense shores of clement water, ideal for swimming, sailing and surfing.  The people are so scattered that we had the impression of vacationning on a private island!  The region is also characterized by its tiny pictorial villages.  New Carlisle, the birthplace of René Lévesque, prime minister of Quebec  from 1976 to 1985, is a typical English-speaking village, with old Loyalist families making up a good portion of the population.   We took a guided tour of  fourteen-room Maison Hamilton, the home of a former legislature member of Lower Canada.  New Richmond, also founded by Loyalists, has sumptuous houses and hillside farms.  Relay point of the Gaspé touristic circuit, Carleton, founded in 1756 by Acadian refugees,  seduces tourists with its magnificent setting of sea and mountains.  We enjoyed walking along the footpaths by Ruisseau de l’Eperlan leading to the back of mont St-Joseph.  From the top of this peak,  we had a panoramic view of the whole sector and the shores of Gaspésie and New Brunswick.  The town also offers a myriad of outdoor and cultural activities such as theatre, art galleries, swimming, golf and tennis. 

 We then stopped  in the village of  Maria, which bears the name of Lady Maria Effingham, wife of Sir Guy Carleton, the third Governor of Canada and nearby, we saw a Micmac Indian reservation which has a church built in the shape of a wigwam.  Another beautiful town in the Bay area is Bonaventure.  It  is one of the two Acadian strongholds in the Baie-des-Chaleurs area. We visited the Musée acadien du Québec where we learned that one million Quebecers have Acadian roots.  The museum displays a magnificent collection of antiques and period photos and a slide show.   For those who wish to know more about the French-Canadian and Indian history, fascinating facts are revealed during a visit to Lieu historique nationale La Bataille-de-la-Restigouche, where tourists witness the journey of a small squadron conveyed to rescue Nouvelle-France in the spring of 1760.  Several ship’s debris, period objects discovered on the boat and an animated movie serve to elucidate the particulars of the naval battle.  The town of Restigouche is the largest Indian reserve in Gaspesie and is well-known for its handicrafts such as baskets and leather items.  Our last stop in the sector was Parc de Miguasha.   The fish and plant fossils at Miguasha have been imprisoned in the cliffs along rivière Ristigouche for 365 million years.  This site, made unique not only in Quebec, but in the world, by the importance, diversity and number of its exceptionally well-preserved fossil species, has attracted researchers from all over the world since 1880.   On the road, we perceived Paspebiac, a town well known for its thalassotherapy center, situated in Auberge du Parc Inn, a beautiful mansion built at the beginning of the 19th century.    The center combines the virtues of the Baie des Chaleurs and its invigorating climate and includes a vast range of modern facilities. The treatment program, given by a specialized and highly-qualified staff consists of exercises, relaxation, leisure activities and sports.

 THE VALLEY

Our journey was slowly drawing to an end and The Valley, the last sector to be seen, would lead us back to Sainte-Flavie.  The Matapedia Valleyis located at the meeting of two magnificent salmon rivers, rivière Restigouche and rivièreMatapedia.  The amount of maples and elms differentiate this area from the rest of the peninsula.  This sector is especially beautiful in the fall, when the red and yellow maple and elm leaves contrast with the green of the fir trees. 

 For over 70 kilometres, we followed Matapedia River.  At times, we were high above the river, sometimes we  were  almost at sea-level, but there was a beautiful view at every turn.   This sector also has many tiny villages.  Val-Brillant, the “Queen of the Valley”, is magnificently located on Matapedia Lake.  Its graceful church of gothic conception is one of the area’s most exquisite religious constructions.  Located at the eastern tip of lac Matapedia and home to the river bearing the same name, Amqui is the Matapédia county town and an industrial, commercial and agricultural centre.  We were informed that there are twenty-five kilometres of interpretation and observation trails for salmon enthusiasts at “Les Falls, Le Marais”.   We visited a zoo, a mini-farm and an amusement park  in Centre Naturanimo.   Our last stop was at Mont Joli,  a commercial and industrial centre, housing an important regional airport and railway station.

 Thoughout the long ride back to Montreal, I was still hypnotized.  I would continue to be for several more weeks.  The world is vast and there are many places to be visited, but I will surely return to Gaspe Peninsula,  where I had been awakened to the  wonder, peace and wildness of nature.

Canada Day is celebrated on July 1st every year in Canada.

As Americans, many of us know little about this holiday and what it represents. For Phoenix, Arizona friends and immigrants, may you have a wonderful Canada Day, and Americans please express your good wishes to the Canadians you know.

Don’t forget to give a bit of cheer and praises to your Canadian friends or neighbors on the first day of July.  Canada Day is a holiday many American don’t know about, so here are the basics.

Canadians celebrate this day – which was formerly Dominion Day, Canadian national holiday, is celebrated July 1 – with parades and picnics, somewhat similar to Fourth of July festivities in the United States. It is frequently referred to as “Canada’s birthday”, although this title is particularly used in the popular press.

It is not a Christian or Pagan holiday,and has no direct religious significance.

Historically this day was made official when The British North America Act went into effect on July 1, 1867. This finalized the unification of Upper Canada (now called Ontario), Lower Canada (now Quebec), New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia into a British dominion.

On June 20, 1868, a royal proclamation was issued asking for Canadians to celebrate the anniversary of the confederation. However, most recognize that the holiday was not established statutorily until 1879.

Canada became a kingdom in its own right on that date, but the British Parliament kept limited rights of political control over the new country that were shed by stages over the years until the last vestiges were surrendered in 1982 when the Constitution Act patriated the Canadian constitution.

Under the federal Holidays Act, Canada Day is observed on July 1 unless that date falls on a Sunday, in which case July 2 is the statutory holiday, although celebratory events generally take place on July 1 even though it is not the legal holiday. If it falls on a Saturday, the following Monday is generally also a day off for those businesses ordinarily closed on Saturdays.

As Americans many of us probably do not know much about this holiday, or how important it may be to our Canadian friends and immigrants.

 And for those who don’t know much about this holiday, here is brief  compilation of some of the more interesting facts and important things to know about this Canadian national celebration.

A proclamation signed by the Governor General on June 20, 1868, asked all Canadians to join in the celebration of the anniversary of the uniting of Upper and Lower Canada, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia as the dominion of Canada on July 1st, 1867.

The British North America Act proclaimed “one Dominion under the name of Canada,” hence the original title of the holiday, “Dominion Day”, which was established by statute in 1879.

After the original declaration, there is no record of organized ceremonies until 1917. This was the 50th anniversary of Confederation.

In 1917, the new Centre Block of the Parliament Buildings was dedicated as a memorial to the Fathers of Confederation and to the bravery of Canadians fighting in World War I.

On July 1st, 1923, the Canadian government enacted the Chinese Immigration Act, stopping all immigration from China. Chinese-Canadians began to refer to July 1 as Humiliation Day and refused to participate in Dominion Day celebrations, until the act was repealed in 1947.

A celebration was held on Canada Day in 1927 to mark the Diamond Jubilee of Confederation. The celebration featured the Governor General laying the cornerstone of the Confederation Building, and the inauguration of the Carillon in the Peace Tower.

Since 1958, the Canadian government has arranged for an annual observance of Canada’s national day with the Secretary of State of Canada in charge of the coordination. There is a Trooping the Colours ceremony on the lawn of Parliament Hill in the afternoon, a sunset ceremony in the evening followed by a mass band concert and fireworks display.

On Canada’s Centennial in 1967, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II attended the celebrations on Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

In 1980, the National Committee (the federal government organization charged with planning Canada’s Birthday celebrations) sponsored the development of local Canada Day celebrations all across the country. “Seed money” was distributed to promote activities organized by volunteer groups.

On October 27, 1982, July 1st which was known as “Dominion Day” became “Canada Day”.

There is a Celebrate Canada Committee in each province and territory. They provide Canadians the opportunity to share their pride in their country, especially on Canada Day.

The province of Newfoundland and Labrador recognizes July 1 as Memorial Day, to commemorate the Newfoundland Regiment’s heavy losses during the first day of the Battle of the Somme in 1916.

Since the 1950′s, the cross-border cousin-cities of Detroit, Michigan, and Windsor, Ontario, have celebrated Canada Day and the United States’ Independence Day with the International Freedom Festival. A massive fireworks display is held each year, with fireworks exploding over the Detroit River, the strait that separates the two cities by less than one mile.

Moving Day (French: Journée du déménagement) is a tradition in the province of Quebec. The province had passed a law preventing landlords from evicting tenants during the cold winter months. The vast majority of leases in Quebec are a year long and begin around July 1. In 2004, approximately 120,000 households moved on or around July 1.

Under the federal Holidays Act, Canada Day is observed on July 1 unless that date falls on a Sunday, in which case July 2 is the statutory holiday. If it falls on a Saturday, the following Monday is generally also a day off for those businesses ordinarily closed on Saturdays. Festivals and celebrations generally take place on July 1 even though it is not the legal holiday.

Some famous people born on Canada day: Pamela Anderson, Dan Akroyd, Lady Diana the Princess of Wales, Missy Elliott, Jamie Farr, Rod Gilbert, Debbie Harry, Olivia de Havilland, Estee Lauder, Carl Lewis, Sydney Pollack, Alan Ruck, and Liv Tyler.
 

Pagans, Christians and Americans in general, owe it to our immigrant Canadians, and our northerly neighbor Canada to at least be respectful and know a bit about this important holiday. Hope this article is informative for all readers.

To donate click here www.youtube.com Donate button located on left side of YT page. Stay tuned, more readings coming tonight peace and prosperity CD Fukushima radiation japan nuclear plant health connectingdots1 silver gold economy “bob chapman” “max keiser” sgtbull07 silverfuturist george4title love peace warcraft “usa economy” depression economy “bob chapman” “max keiser” sgtbull07 silverfuturist george4title peace warcraft “usa economy” depression

Related Canada Information Articles

Canada is one of the largest countries in the world in terms of area, yet it has a relatively “small” population with just over 33 million people. It is a country that is made up of immigrants, and it continues to be one of the most sought after countries in the world to live in. Canada is also one of the safest countries in the world and provides an abundance of opportunities for immigrants to the country to settle in and to live a great life in.

There are many reasons Canada provides these opportunities.

Reasons that these opportunities exist include Canada’s excellent relations with its North American neighbors, a prosperous economy, as well as its rich natural resources among many more!

Canada is also home to many exciting and dynamic cities. Each of these cities have their unique sense of community and culture as well as landscape and geography.

This provides for an exciting experience when anyone visits Canada for the sake of travel or for immigration. Some of these cities include Toronto, Montréal, and Ottawa in the eastern part of Canada as well as Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver in the west. All of these cities have many areas that they specialize in. Toronto, for example is the financial capital of Canada, while Calgary is home to major energy companies. Edmonton is known as one of Canada’s premiere research and education centre’s and Vancouver is home to a major port that facilitates more than 40 billion dollars worth of trade annually! Additionally, Vancouver and its neighboring city Whistler will be hosting 2010 Winter Olympic Games!

www.ibm.com Canada Health Infoway developed a national blueprint for the eHealth architecture a pan-Canadian Electronic Health Record. The master patient and provider registries are at the foundation to enable accurate location and matching of records for health information sharing.

Occupying most of North America, Canada is the world’s second largest country in terms of area. Its fusion of British, French and indigenous Canadian influences give this country its diverse and multicultural nature which attracts so many travellers every year.

Perhaps Canada’s most outstanding attractions are its unrivalled natural beauty and spectacular wilderness. From the dominating rocky mountains to the gorgeous Banff and Jasper National Parks.

So from up and coming cities, to wilderness that’s ideal for spotting bears and other such wildlife, Canada really does offer an abundance of adventure holiday options and experiences, some of which are detailed below.

1.

Horse riding in British Columbia – Follow game trails, cross rivers, and enjoy open-air lunches with the world’s best views. There are sweeping vistas, turquoise green glaciers, snow caves, and abundant wildlife including mountain goats, Bighorn sheep, Mule deer, moose, wolf, Grizzly and Black bear. Travel mountain-top passes and experience wide U-shaped valleys with their mosaic of wildflowers, wild hay meadows and big-game mineral licks.

2. See polar bears in Churchill – Churchill, the ‘Polar Bear Capital of the World’, is the only human settlement where Polar Bears can be observed in the wild and it lies right in the bears migratory path. This is perhaps the ultimate in adventure travel in Canada.

3. Spot whales, porpoises and dolphins – In the summer months the wildlife is prolific here with June to August being exceptional months for sighting Humpback Whales, Orcas, Dall’s Porpoise and Pacific White-sided Dolphins.

This is just the tip of the iceberg, for more adventure travel in Canada you’ll have to travel there to experience it for yourself!