I heard that BC and Alberta areas are beautiful and never been there. Could anyone please suggest few tips for a trip to BC and Alberta. I live in Mississauga, Ontario.
Any other suggestions and informations for the other Canadian provinces. I’ve been to Quebec for couple of times.
There’s so much diversity in Canada…ranging from rocky mountains to flat (and I mean flat!) land…to ocean side. If you even go a little north in Ontario, you’ll see beautiful areas. The area around Thunder Bay is absolutely gorgeous. The only setback is, it’s a bit dangerous driving through it at night because of all the wild life, very steep and curvy roads…and gas stations miles and miles apart (around 80km, if I can recall correctly.) If you’re travelling by road, it would be best to spend the night there and then start fresh again in the morning. Once you reach the prairies, you’ll be amazed to see how flat it is. I’m a big fan of mountain areas and I was dreading driving through the prairies on our trip. Surprisingly, even that is a beauty on its own. I’d never seen anything so flat in my life. It’s not as green as other areas. Once you hit Alberta, Calagary is quite hilly. A very beautiful city.
If you’re planning to go, I’d suggest you take a train from Calgary to Vancouver. I’ve yet to visit BC, but from what I hear from my cousins (who live in Calgary), it’s absolutely gorgeous. If you take the train going to Vancouver, drive on the way back so you can stop at Lake Louise, Jasper and Banff. Those are must-see places!!
If you’re planning to go to Eastern Canada, the drive is quite smooth. The Atlantic provinces are very famous for their seafood. Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia is a must see. I went there last year and posted pics too. Take a look if you want:
here and here
If I had more time, I’d have gone to PEI and other provinces as well. That’s the problem with road trips. You need lots and lots of time…with Canada being so huge.
Amir, in my opinion BC, esp. Vancouver Island, has some of the most scenic places in the whole world. Take the Lynx ferry (service starts this fall) from downtown Vancouver harbor to Nanaimo and take the Malahat train to Victoria. Fly back from Victoria on a float plane or take the BC ferry. Even hour departures on Pacific Coach Lines from downtown Victoria dock on the bigger vessels – all you have to do is get on the bus. In fall BC ferries also runs day long trips to Prince Rupert – that inside passage cruise offers fjords like that in Norway.
There is tons to do in Victoria – a whale watching tour is a must. The harbor resembles Lake Geneva, but is much tidier – though a few blocks away you might encounter some filth, pan handlers etc.
The capitol building is right across the harbor, an astounding building (makes you think how hard working were the earlier immigrants). Right next to it is the National Geographic Museum. Butchart gardens, an hours drive away, is also worth a visit.
If you can RV with friends, a ride into Jasper/Rocky mountain areas of Alberta will blow you away. I once saw a sign in Yukon, that said, the wildlife won’t get you, but the scenery will.
Currently, Westjet is offering low one way fares, you can travel to/from Toronto one-way by surface – with Viarail or Greyhound stopping at different places - just grab a backpack. It’s the best way to see Canada. Do it while you're young and have the energy.
Alberta and British Columbia are beautiful. I'm heading to New Brunswick ,Nova Scotia (via ferry from New Brunswick, (maybe even Newfoundland)and Quebec this weekend. Love Quebec, not sure about others(first time going).
I'd prefer Alberta/BC.
CB, thanks for the information. this is really great. I am also planning a trip to PEI this year. I've been to USA so many times but now I want to discover Canada. Thanks again for the info.
World Citizen, Thank you too for the tips. I am regular reader of national geographic and would love to see their museum. backpack idea is not bad but you need lots of time for that. I probably will drive.
hskhan, enjoy your trip. I like Quebec too (except French). Thanks for the info.
Amir Bhai, you gotta go and visit Alberta and BC..those are beautiful provinces with great scenic views. Just a word of advice..make sure if you are going via car..stock lots of juices and water bottles with you...coz i realized that when you are travelling to those places..grocery stores are at distance and convenience stores and shops do charge upto $6 for 1.5 litre water bottle...
Qrius, thanks for your advice. I will keep in mind.
As I live in Calgary; I'd suggest Banff and the Lake Louise. That is the must see place.
There are many lakes on the way from Calgary to Vancouver. Kootney Lake is an awesome place to visit aswell. The road goes along with the lake.
yes i've been to calgary, edmonton, vancouver, etc and all place are beautiful :~)
Destinee, Thanks for your suggestion. I heard about Banff and Lake Louise. Now I want to see these places very soon.
EntityParadigm, thanks for the info.
^
if you are in calgary, then do go to drumheller (sp?). its the biggest dinosures reserve in the world. beautiful museum with breath-taking scenery. place is simply magical :~)
^Oh of course, I totally forgot about that!
Amir, you gotta visit Drumheller too.
I live in calgary as well!
Which area do you live in??
But yea, Banff and Lake Louise are great places to visit. Don’t forget Waterton Lake, Elbow falls and Kananaskas. Slavyn lake is a great place and if you get a chance…go to Jasper as well.
there's emerald lake in yoho national park..you should see that one as well :-)