The Country:
It's the edginess between Canada's indigenous, French and
British traditions that gives the nation its complex
three-dimensional character. Those expecting Canada to be a
blander counterpart of its southern neighbor should check their
preconceptions at the door - Canada's wild northern frontier,
which has etched itself into the national psyche, and its
distinct patchwork of peoples have created a country that is
decidedly different to that of the USA. It has been consistently
ranked by the UN as the number one country in the world to live
in for the last 7 years. Having a large Asian Diaspora of
students, Canada offers a truly international educational
experience.
Geography & Climate:
Canada has four distinct seasons, although their arrival times
vary across the country. The single most significant factor in
climate is latitude.
Currency:
The official currency of Canada is Canadian dollar. The symbol
is C $.
Education:
Canada is not only known for it's picturesque locations, but
also for it's high standard of education. The colleges in Canada
are at par with the best known colleges in the world, in terms
of the educational programs offered and the facilities provided
to the students.
Major Cities:
Bank, Ottawa, Montreal, Jasper, Toronto, Halifax, Calgary.
Culture:
English and French are the country's two official languages,
though the province of New Brunswick is the only officially
bilingual area in the country. You will, however, notice both
languages on maps, tourist brochures and product labels. The
French spoken in Canada is not, for the most part, the language
of France. In Quebec, where the majority of the population are
of French descent, the local tongue is known as Quebecois. Most
Quebeckers will understand formal French; it will just strike
them as being a little peculiar.
Sports:
For canoeing, kayaking and white-water rafting hiking. For beach
activities, surf's up on the east coast at Ingonish Beach in
Nova Scotia and in the warmer waters of Melmerby and Caribou
beaches near New Glasgow. Skiers are spoilt for choice, with
good cross-country skiing found all across the land. The main
alpine ski centers are in Ontario, Quebec, Alberta and British
Columbia.
