Canada

2022-09-16

Top 5 Safe Destinations For The Queer Community

John Stevens Tourism, travel Canada, LGBTQIA+, queer, travel, traveling 0 Comments

Isn’t traveling when you are part of the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual) community like everyone else? However, many factors must be considered so that the trip does not quickly become a nightmare. We have selected the 5 safest destinations where you will feel comfortable and secure when holding hands with the person you love. For 2022, LGBTQ+ Travel Safety Index ranked the 150 most visited countries based on current laws, how the people there feel, and protections for queer rights.

Eating ice cream on a terrace, visiting a museum, or walking down the street are harmless and natural moments. However, they may not be so natural when your sexuality or gender is questioned in the country you are visiting. So before you take the plunge and buy your ticket, let’s take a look at the places where you’ll be free to be yourself.

1. Canada: party on St. Catherine Street

Whether it’s a road trip to Lac St-Jean, a tasting of local beers and ciders, or a trip to Vancouver, the land of maple syrup is full of surprises. It is also at the forefront in terms of LGBTQIA+ rights. Same-sex marriage has been allowed since 2005. In 2017, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly apologized for past discrimination against the queer community. That same year, he marched with his family at the Montreal, Vancouver, and Toronto Pride and Freedom Marches.

And since 2016, Randy Boissonnault has been a special advisor on issues related to the LGBTQIA+ communities. Openly gay, he is one of the 5 LGBT MPs sitting in the Canadian Parliament. If you decide to stay in Montreal, you can visit the Gay Village. It is one of the largest queer neighborhoods in the world. In its center, Sainte-Catherine street. An open area where you will find restaurants, nightclubs, boutiques, drag shows, art installations, and neoclassical churches. The nightlife is known to be one of the most festive in the world.

2. Sweden: enjoy a sunset on Grinda Island

Do Stockholm and its 24,000 islands and islets, colorful houses, and cobblestone streets attract you? Or maybe you prefer the immaculate fjords populated by herds of reindeer? Whether you’re looking for a wilderness experience or a night out in the city, Sweden is the place for you. The Stockholm Pride March attracts 45,000 participants and 400,000 spectators. That’s less than 50% of the city’s residents participating in the event yearly.

Between 2003 and 2011, the LGBTQIA+ community has seen its rights expand from the right to adoption to marriage to the prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation. The Swedish capital, Stockholm, is full of LGBTQIA+ clubs and cafes. Sweden also has the first queer retirement home in Europe: the Regnbågen. As the birthplace of European music, you’ll probably enjoy dancing to ABBA’s “Gimme gimme gimme” or enjoying Björk’s suspended notes in front of a sunset on the island of Grinda.

3. Malta: dive into the blue water of the Mediterranean

The transparent water of the Mediterranean, green islands, a fortified capital with its string of small streets… Malta announces a trip full of promises that it can keep. Do you love deep sea diving, kayaking, and historical visits? Come dive with us in deep waters to discover Malta, a country where pairs of flippers and LGBTQIA+ flags are a must.

Considered a model for European countries, the archipelago is known as a paradise for queer people. Designated in 2019 as the “best European country for sexual minority rights”, the country has been working since 2013 to adopt a series of laws favoring LGBTQIA+. Marriage and adoption are available without restrictions, and transgender people can easily declare their name and gender change.

4. Portugal: visit the city of a thousand colors

Nestled in southwestern Europe between the Atlantic and Spain, Portugal offers a wealth of possibilities. Nibbling on pastéis de Nata on the banks of the Tagus River, discovering ancestral port wine cellars, or hiking in the lush nature of Madeira… The cradle of fado is also a place of tolerance for LGBTQ+ people. It is the country with the fewest assaults due to sexual orientation or gender identity in Europe. Its anti-discrimination laws and its evolution over the years have placed it at the top of the most queer-friendly destinations in Europe.

The country is also a candidate to host the 2022 Europride. Are you stopping in Lisbon, the city of a thousand colors? Don’t hesitate to visit the Arroios and Misericórdia neighborhoods, the most popular in the city. You can also enjoy the bars and clubs in the Principe Real district, known for its antique stores and LGBTQIA+ bars. There is plenty of entertainment and fun to be had.

5. United Kingdom: discover Brighton

Beyond the birthplace of the Sex Pistols, the United Kingdom is also the possibility of taking a tour of the London Eye while nibbling on scones or admiring the port of Polperro in Cornwall. The country, known for its open-mindedness and avant-gardism, is the master of sexual freedom and gender identity. Between 2002 and 2021, laws allowing the LGBTQIA+ community to live freely have been passed continuously. The most recent one in effect is the one proposing a UK-wide ban on conversion therapy.

When we talk about England, we often think of London, but the intriguing city of Brighton has not said its last word. Openly queer-friendly, like its rainbow houses, Brighton has more than one trick up its sleeve. The LGBTQIA+ cultural scene is particularly rich, so you’ll quickly find the right address for you. Brighton is also home to two annual Pride events. One attracting about 160 000 visitors during the parade near Preston Park in early August. And the Trans Pride, in July, is dedicated to the trans community.

Sound off in the comments section below, and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about queer-friendly destinations.

2022-04-26

Top 4 Desserts To Try In Canada

John Stevens Fun things to do, Restaurant, travel, Travel and Restaurant bakery, Canada, canadian desserts, Desserts, food 0 Comments

No matter how much I had for dinner or lunch, I always had space for dessert. I am of the belief that there is no better way to discover a culture than through its cuisine. I believe that eating dessert is one of the pleasures of life, and depriving yourself of that should be a crime.

I might be going a bit overboard here, but I think we should live life to the fullest and Carpe Diem (seize the day). Canada isn’t really known for its dessert, but there are a lot of hidden Canadian dessert gems out there. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this blog and learn more about Canadian desserts.

1. Saskatoon Berry Pie

Saskatoon berry is also known as juneberry and prairie berry and can be found across North America but mainly in the prairies of Canada. Saskatoon berry is akin to blueberries, but it tends to be smaller and sweeter and has a nuttier taste to it. It is a better version of blueberry in my book, but that’s the conceited Canadian in me talking.

You should know that Saskatoon berry season is only though June through July. In the past couple of years, the berry gained popularity because of its nutritional value and high levels of antioxidants. The pie is relatively simple, but its taste is out of this world and is something that everyone should taste at least once in their life. The berry keeps its shape even when they are baked into the pie, and you can get a burst of flavor in every bite.

2. Nanaimo bar

This dessert gets its name from the city it was born in, Nanaimo, and is one of Canada’s hidden gems when it comes to desserts. It is a no-bake dessert made from a layer of chocolate ganache that traditionally sits atop a layer of thick custard. A chocolate-graham-coconut layer is put on top of the custard layer. This triple threat is dated to 1953, but people believe it is older than that.

Over the years, a lot of people brought their own twist to this traditional dessert, and you can find this in most Canadian bakeries nowadays. They come in different flavors, from mint to red velvet and peanut butter, and various forms like spring rolls, lattes, and even martinis. For the die-hard fans out there, you can even walk the Nanaimo Bar Trail for the ultimate sugar rush, and this includes 39 stops from modern to traditional talks on the desserts.

3. Pouding Chomeur

As you might have guessed from its name, this dessert hails from Quebec and is literally translated to Unemployed person pudding. It was created during the Great Depression in Quebec by female factory workers. It is a relatively simple and rich dessert. This dessert takes your average cake batter but brings it to the next level by topping it with hot caramel that settles through the cake to the bottom of the baking pan when it is baked.

The sugar in the caramel is often swapped for maple syrup which gives this dessert even more Canadian flavoring. This makes a decadent cake that is addictive and an upside gooey upside-down cake that has now become a French-Canadian tradition. It is the perfect dessert when you are feeling under the weather.

4. Butter pie

This is a delicacy on The East Coast of Canada, and you can find it everywhere. You can find it in your favorite bakeries and even corner stores. They are a Canadian obsession. They are handheld pies that are usually sweetened with maple syrup (it’s Canada; what else did you expect).

The country is obsessed with butter pie which is part of the country’s history and heritage. The first recipe for a butter tart to be published was back in 1900 but is said to have been made by the early settlers back in the 1700s. This is one of those desserts that you ought to try when you go to Canada.

Looking for a good dessert place?

There is no better place to start the weekend than a Bakery, in my book. Are you in Toronto? Are you craving something sweet or have a sweet tooth? Then look no further than Nord Lyon. They have a variety of French and Canadian pastries, and they have something for everyone out there. They are currently one of the most famous French pastry shops and bakeries in Toronto, and we can’t help but recommend them. So, what are you waiting for? Give them a visit and satisfy your french pastry cravings.

2022-02-28

Top 6 Reasons Why You Visit Visit Canada

John Stevens Fun things to do, Restaurant, Tourism, travel, Travel and Restaurant Canada, Maple Syrup, poutine, snow, travel 2 Comments

I’ve visited Canada at least 5 times already because it is my favorite country in the world and because it is where my partner is from. As a queer, first-generation kid who grew up in the Bronx, I feel weirdly at ease there, mostly because it is so diverse. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this blog and some of my reasons why you should visit Canada.

1. Diverse Cuisine

The culinary scene in Canada is dynamic and diverse. Each region has a large number of typical and local dishes. The world is now familiar with the famous Quebec Poutine (a portion of French fries topped with a rich sauce before being garnished with cheese curds), which is considered the national dish.

Fishing is an age-old tradition on the East Coast (Maritimes and Quebec), and on the West Coast (British Columbia), you can feast on crabs, lobsters, salmon, and various seafood. If you are a fan of sweet foods, then come to Quebec to taste the famous maple syrup. We must also mention the famous Okanagan Valley wine region.

2. Winter sports

During the winter, Canada becomes a great playground with the possibility of practicing many sports such as snowmobiling, dog sledding, downhill skiing, snowboarding, ice skating or tubing, and sledding… There is no lack of choice. Canada is an extremely popular destination for snowmobile tours; Quebec has one of the largest snowmobile trail networks in the world, with over 35,000km.

If you love snow and thrilling adventure, then Canada is the place to be in our books. It is the perfect winter land, and you get to do a number of winter sports there. Canada is known for its luxurious snow and wildlife. This is why a lot of thrill-seekers go there to get their fill of excitement. So, if you want to live life on the edge for a while, then you ought to visit Canada during its winter season.

3. Diversity

The typical image of a Canadian is often that of a (Caucasian) lumberjack cutting down trees in the middle of the forest. The reality is quite different. Canada is one of the 20 most diverse countries globally, far ahead of the United States and the United Kingdom.

A recent study showed that one-fifth of Canada’s total population was born outside the country, the highest proportion of any G8 country. And with two national languages- English and French- and a high percentage of foreign-born residents, Canada’s bilingualism rate is 17.5%.

In Toronto- recently named the most diverse city in the world by BBC Radio- more than 140 languages are in use, and nearly 51% of the population was born outside of Canada.

4. Natural wonders and Outdoor Recreation

As the second-largest country in the world, Canada has devoted much of its land to conservation. With more than 40 national parks and nature reserves covering 300,000 square kilometers, you wouldn’t have enough time in your life to explore all of its lakes, rivers, mountains, forests, glaciers, and coastlines even if you wanted to.

Outdoor sports like skiing, hiking, biking, and climbing are integral to Canadian identity. They are topping the BBC’s list of the most outdoor-friendly major cities: Vancouver, British Columbia.

Located just 115 kilometers from the world-class ski resort of Whistler-Blackcomb, a short drive from the epic Squamish climbing area, and with an extensive network of mountain bike trails, Vancouver is one of the best places in the world to experience nature at its best.

5. Maple syrup

Maple syrup is one of nature’s most glorious and delicious phenomena. Canadians participate in the traditional “tapping” in the spring after selecting maple trees and inserting small taps into their trunks. As the trees thaw out at the end of the cold Canadian winter, their sap rises and flows through the taps into buckets hung for this purpose.

After that, the sap is cooked and then gradually reduced until it becomes the sweet and tasty maple syrup we all know and love. It takes about 40 liters of sap to make one liter of pure maple syrup. That’s an enormous amount of maple sap, which is why Canadians are so fond of this delicious golden nectar. They slather it on waffles, bacon, steaks, chicken, eggs, salads- just about anything they can get their hands on.

6. Home of field hockey

It’s almost strange that people who are known for their incredible friendliness are so obsessed with a sport as brutal as field hockey. Then again, maybe it makes perfect sense… you have to get your nerves out of your system. For Canadians, field hockey is a national passion that overshadows every facet of life.

It is the cornerstone of every small community and the occasion for gatherings large and small. Children grow up with skates on their feet and a stick in their hands. A field hockey scene is even depicted on Canada’s five-dollar bank bill.

Sound off in the comments section below and tell us if you want to read more about Canada.

2021-10-06

Discovering Alaska and Its History

John Stevens travel Alaska, Big Diomede, Canada, Little Diomede, travel, United States 0 Comments

The story of Alaska’s flag begins in 1926. Because Alaska lacked its own flag, the American Legion held a flag contest in October of that year. All Alaskan boys and girls in grades 7 through 12 were eligible to compete.

At a school near Seward was an orphan whose name was Benny Benson. Thirteen-year-old Benny loved his land and often dreamed of its greatness. Out of his love and dreams came the winning design. Below his sketch, Benny wrote these words:

“The blue field represents the Alaskan sky, while the forget-me-not is an Alaskan flower. The North Star represents the future state of Alaska, the Union’s most northern state. The Dipper is a symbol of strength for the Great Bear.”

On May 2, 1927, Benny’s design became Alaska’s official flag. A prize of $ 1000 was put aside for Benny’s education. When Alaska was preparing for statehood in 1955, the constitutional convention delegates publicly honored Benny Benson. Later, a street in Kodiak was named after him.

The History

Alaska is the largest, the next-to-youngest and the most sparsely populated state of the Union. It contains Point Barrow, the northern-most point in the United States and Mount McKinley, the highest mountain peak in all North America. About one-third of this huge state lies north of the Arctic Circle.

Like Florida, in the extreme southeastern United States, Alaska is a peninsula. The mainland of Alaska juts out at the northwest corner of the North American continent like a huge thumb on a doubled-up fist. At one point on the western side, Alaska is only 55 miles from the continent of Asia. Thousands of years ago the mainlands of the two continents were connected. They are now separated by the Bering Strait. In the Bering Strait, Russia’s Big Diomede Island is about 3 miles from the United States’ Little Diomede Island. Between the two islands is the international date line. Sunday on Little Diomede corresponds to Monday on Big Diomede.

Alaska includes thousands of islands. One chain of islands, the Aleutians, stretches beyond the 180th meridian into the Eastern Hemisphere. Attu Island, at the tip of the chain, is at the same longitude as New Zealand.

Among Alaska’s people are the native inhabitants of “The Great Land” – Eskimos, Aleuts and Indians. The remaining people represent all regions of the country as well as many countries around the world. They are primarily young, daring individuals who have risen to the challenge of developing America’s final frontier.

For many years Alaska had no government of its own to conserve and develop its rich natural resources. Men rushed into this vast land to strip it of furs, fish and gold and then rushed out again to spend somewhere else the profits from their plundering.

Russia owned Alaska for more than 100 years. During this time the fur seals were killed so wastefully that only a fraction of them survived. The sea otter was almost exterminated. Then, in 1867, the United States bought Alaska and the land lay almost forgotten until its wealth in fish, especially in salmon, attracted a new kind of fortune hunter.

In 1896 the cry of “gold” rang out in the Klondike region of Canada’s Yukon Territory. This cry shifted attention from fish to gold. Thousands of men poured through Skagway, Alaska, on their way to the Klondike. Others hurried to Alaska’s own gold fields. Many of the gold seekers were disappointed. But many who struck it rich returned “outside” – anywhere outside Alaska – to spend their wealth, leaving little of permanent value. At the climax of the gold rush, some Alaskans compared their land to the storybook Cinderella, whose riches turned to rags at the stroke of midnight.

Finally, on January 3, 1959, Alaska gained statehood and control of its resources. Those resources have proved considerable including what may be the largest oil deposits in North America. The problem for Alaska today is how to exploit its natural wealth without despoiling its natural beauty.

The story of Alaska continues in the second part…

2021-06-18

7 Must-Try Traditional Canadian Delicacies

John Stevens Restaurant, travel, Travel and Restaurant Canada, Canadian Food, Canadian Traditions, Immigrate to Canada, Traditional Canadian Delicacies 0 Comments

Canada is one of the countries that govern certain unique respect from immigrants, just like all the other things you hear about the country, such as its exceptional food, the stereotype of the wild and the temperate climate where everyone can find their own style of weather, which makes it much more appealing than many others. One of the unusual things you may hear about Canada is the seemingly peculiar way it cooks. It consists mainly of spices, and most people either hate it or love it (both decisions made without having tried a single Canadian dish!). But even if we say we don’t like this “weird and wacky cuisine”, we all want to try it.

We’ve all heard of the famous Canadian dish poutine. On TV and in movies, it’s often presented as a mixture of sauce, chips and cheese, and there’s not one of us who doesn’t gag at the thought of it. Saskatoon pie may not be the most famous globally, but believe me, many people crave this little slice of heaven. Among the unique dishes that Canada has offered the world is an exciting combination of sweet and savoury dishes. Although Kraft macaroni and cheese is the most edible dish of the week in this country, there are many other delicious Canadian dishes that you must try. Here are seven of the best.

#1. Poutine

No one would be surprised that Poutine was at the top of Canadian cuisine, as only a few Canadian dishes have managed to come close to the massive renown that Poutine Canadian food has amassed. Known as the signature Canadian dish worldwide, Poutine is a rich and fantastic blend of deep-fried fries, cheesecakes that can make any of us drool and a sauce that is to die for.

#2. Canadian BBQ Chicken

BBQ chicken is a traditional Canadian dish and the most popular food in the country. The chicken turns out to be very juicy and incredibly tasty. In the original, it is cooked on open coals on the grill and always with maple syrup.

#3. Butter Tarts

One of the more famous desserts coming out of Canada is butter cakes which is one of the easiest things to do, which only if someone with an oven, a boatload of butter and basic pastry skills can bake them. But its simplicity is hardly the reason for its overwhelming popularity, as Canadian butter cakes melt in your mouth while chewing and are very close to being our best Canadian dessert. It is without a doubt one of the very best popular Canadian foods.

#4. Beavertails

These can mainly be described as slices of deep-fried dough and are quite commonly made in Canada, both in restaurants and at home. Of course, they can taste wet to most people. Still, they really start to shine and become fantastic when eaten covered in a kind of toppings, such as Reese’s Pieces, Nutella, or the evergreen classic peanut butter enjoyed by people worldwide.

#5. Tourtière

This dish is named after the Tourtière St-Jean Lake and is served where the traditional meat pie is served. The difference lies in several fillings from different types of meat, including fresh bison, wild boar and deer. It is usually a mixture of pork, beef and lamb. The dough for the pie is chopped, and the bowl is baked at a low temperature of 120 degrees for several hours.

#6. Montreal-Style Meat

Smoked meat in Montreal is a kosher delicacy prepared by salting and ageing beef in aromatic herbs. The breast is allowed to “mature” for a week so that it is saturated with flavours. Then it is smoked hot, and at the end, it is dipped with steam.

#7. Maple Taffy

There is absolutely no doubt that eating this will be one of your most memorable events when you visit Canada. A nationwide classic, tire d’érable is also known by its street name, maple business name. I’m sure a lot of us have been fantasizing about, from time to time. Even watching someone make maple taffy is quite fascinating, like a pot of boiling maple syrup (yum!) It is slowly poured throughout the snow, causing the syrup to harden immediately.

Do you want to immigrate to Canada so you can enjoy these delicacies any day, any time? Get in touch with the experts at RNR CANADIAN IMMIGRATION CONSULTANCY! Whether you want to permanently immigrate to Canada or stay as a temporary resident, they offer a range of CIC immigration consulting services to assist you with your application.

2020-12-04

Best Scenic Routes From Around the World

John Stevens Travel and Restaurant Best Routes, Canada, India, Norway, travelers, traveling 0 Comments

One of the best aspects of car travel is the scenery that inhabits the routes. The roads we take are mostly taken for granted, but they should not be. Roads have been a means of transportation and they offer a huge source of inspiration to describe a journey. As you begin to think about your next vacation, take a look at this list of some of the most scenic roads in the world. From spectacular coastal routes to precarious mountain passes, these beautiful strips of cobblestone thread their way through some of the world’s most beautiful scenery, with inspiring images reflected in your rear-view mirror. Sometimes it’s the journey, sometimes it’s the destination – and sometimes it’s both. We’ve traveled the world in search of the most beautiful, interesting and original road trips.

Atlantic Road, Norway

This amazing and unique stretch of road will make you feel as if you were flying by the ocean. Voted “technical feat of the century” in 2005, the Atlantic route is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world.

Overseas Highway, Florida, United States

Who needs a boat when you can cross the ocean in a convertible? Florida’s Overseas Highway is an 113 mile route that will take you across the dazzling blue waters of the ocean and across the Florida Keys.

Oberalp Pass, Switzerland

This superb high mountain pass (altitude of 6,706 feet!) is to be discovered by taking a breathtaking paved road that connects the cantons of Graubünden and the URI between Disentis and Andermatt. There is also a restaurant and a “Beer Garden” at the summit that offers a breathtaking view of the road you have conquered.

Great Ocean Road, Australia

One of the most picturesque roads in the world is the Great Ocean Road in Australia. Iconic surf breaks, misty waterfalls, cliffs and towering rocks make it a magical road – perfect for those who love to stop and enjoy the great outdoors.

Tianmen Mountain Road, China

The Great Gate of Tianment Shan (also called the winding road of Tianmen Mountain) is a memorable 6.8 mile route that took 8 years to complete. It is universally recognized as one of the most spectacular roads in the world.

White Rim Road – Canyonlands National Park, Utah, USA

Looping under the island in the Mesa sky, the 100-mile White Rim Highway in Utah’s Canyonlands National Park offers drivers vast views of the surrounding area. You’ll need a four-wheel drive vehicle (and camera).

Stelvio Pass, Italy

One of the most emblematic roads in Europe must be the one that passes through the Stelvio Pass in Italy. It is the third highest road in the Alps, with an impressive 48 hairpin bends on the north face. It was voted the best road in the world in 2008, and here is a driving itinerary.

Denali Road, Alaska, USA

Alaska offers some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the world, and drivers tackling the 135 long section of the Denali Highway from Paxson to Cantwell will enjoy spectacular views along the way.

Chapman’s Peak Drive, South Africa

Affectionately known as #Chappies, Chapman’s Peak Drive follows a toll road that follows the Atlantic coast at the southwestern tip of South Africa between Noordhoek and Hout Bay. This road is one of the most spectacular coastal roads in the world.

Going-to-the-Sun-Road, Montana, USA

If you’re planning a trip to the land of the big sky, the “Going-to-the-Sun” route will allow you to feel that you could actually reach the sky. Plan to go there in July-early September, when the alpine section of the road is usually fully open.

Rohtang Pass, India

The Rohtang or Rohtam Pass is a high mountain pass which is located at an altitude of 13,054 feet above sea level. Passing through the eastern range of the Pir Panjal in the Himalayas, it is a humbling journey not to be made for novice drivers. The name of this pass translates as “the soil of corpses” because of the many landslides that occur there. It’s beautiful and historic, but if you’re not a daredevil or thrill seeker, choose something else.

2020-12-04

6 Reasons to Choose Canada as Your Next Travel Destination

John Stevens Travel and Restaurant Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia, Canada, Fork York Motel, holidays, Maple Syrup, The Bay of Fundy, travel, vacations 0 Comments

Are you considering a winter trip? Summer is coming to an end, and it’s time to think about a winter trip. Of course, many countries are at your disposal, but Canada is an ideal destination for its exuberant beauty, people, and tranquillity. Here are some reasons why you should visit this incredible country:

1) Attractive Cities and Magical Scenery

Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Ottawa… Canada’s major metropolises are as dynamic as they are pleasant. What’s more, if you’re looking for opportunities to work or study in these cities, each of them offers an excellent quality of life to complement your academic and professional side.

If you are a nature lover, then Canada is the perfect destination for you. With its vast spaces and endless green areas, this country is made for you. From Quebec to British Columbia, you can enjoy national parks, lakes, mountains and glaciers, and extensive flora and fauna. A visit to the Banff National Park or Niagara Falls is not to be missed, depending on the region you visit.

2) Helps You Improve Your English or Your French

A Canadian vacation already sounds interesting, but a slightly longer season sounds even more enjoyable. As you probably already know, they have two official languages: English and French. You can take advantage of the opportunity to take a language course in Canada with all the benefits of learning English or French abroad. You won’t regret it! This is a unique experience to grow professionally and personally.

3) Warm and Friendly People

We continuously hear that Canadians are friendly and hospitable. You may think this is a stereotype or an exaggeration, but you will realize how respectful, friendly and open the locals are when you visit Canada. And as if that wasn’t enough, they’re always ready to help if you need them!

If you don’t believe us, take a look. Stand in the corner of Canada with a map in your hand, and you’re sure to find someone to help you.

4) Maple Syrup

Shouldn’t this be the first reason to travel to Canada? Maple syrup or syrup is one of the most delicious natural phenomena. It takes about 40 litres of juice to produce one litre of maple syrup. That’s a considerable amount and the main reason why Canadians treat this nectar as if it were gold.

You know you can’t stop visiting the locals and eating maple syrup over waffles, bacon, meat, chicken, eggs, salads, and just about any food that comes in your mouth!

5) Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia

The 300 kilometres long Cabot Trail (Nova Scotia) winds its way up through the coastal mountains with beautiful ocean views at every turn, whales coming out of the water off the coastline, and numerous paths to stop and explore on foot. The area is also dotted with Celtic and Akkadian communities (descendants of the French who settled in the 18th century), and their rhythmic violin music is played in local pubs.

6) The Bay of Fundy

The Bay of Fundy is not very common, although it is surrounded by lighthouses, fishing villages and other classic maritime features. Fundy’s unique geography generates the world’s most extreme tides and provides food for the endangered North Atlantic right whales, as well as the blue whales, who also come to the feast. It is extraordinary to watch the cetaceans here.

If you’re planning your next holiday or business trip to Canada, Fork York Motel provides well-designed and equipped motel rooms for your stay in the country. They have other 40 rooms and you can even smoking and non-smoking rooms! Contact them for more information!

2020-11-09

5 Customs and Traditions Unique to Canada

John Stevens Restaurant, Sport, travel, Travel and Restaurant Canada, Canadian, Canadian Traditions, Canadians 0 Comments

It’s no secret that we can find a wide assortment of customs that are totally strange to other cultures in Canada. In this article, we’ll explain the quirkiest yet most important festivals and traditions of this bilingual country (not to forget and the eating and social habits).

#1. Parties

Throughout the year, many traditional festivals are celebrated that attract both the national and international public. In February, the Winter Carnival occurs, in which ice sculptures are made, and parades are held. The one in Quebec stands out, where an ice castle is built-in, which is Bonhomme, a well-known snowman. In the same month, the Winterlude, a festival that celebrates winter, occurs on the Rideau Canal, Ottawa. Also, in February, we find the Grape and Wine Fair in Niagara. Between the end of June and the beginning of July, the Montreal Jazz Festival is organized, considered the most important world. It attracts around two million people.

July 1st is Canada’s National Day, where Canada’s independence is celebrated with parades, fireworks and entertainment. The Calgary Stampede is celebrated during this month, honouring the culture of the Old West. The second Monday in October is also Thanksgiving Day. During the day, families get together and prepare to eat turkey with red cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie and apple pie.

#2. Social Customs

Due to their immigration policy, Canadians are open to new people and are interested in other cultures. It is even familiar for them to greet and smile at strangers. When it comes to greeting, they shake hands and always maintain a certain physical distance. They address the other person by his last name until he invites him to call him by his first name. In establishments, you always say hello, and thank you.

If you’re invited to lunch or dinner, it is important to be punctual and bring a gift, such as a bottle of wine or some flowers. Also, you must remove your shoes at the entrance. Depending on each region, there are different cultural habits. For example, in Quebec, being an area of French origin, they tend to be more reserved and formal, and to say hello, they give two kisses.

As for the family, for Canadians, it is quite important. They like to spend time together and eat with their children. All family models are respected: single parents, with parents of the same sex, etc. Also, both men and women often work outside the home. However, there is a wage gap between both sexes, and women spend more time doing housework and taking care of children.

#3. Feeding Habits

Canadians generally eat three times a day: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Dinner is considered the most important meal and is eaten around five o’clock in the afternoon, early compared to other countries. There are differences between regions: American, English, and French cuisines influence Canadian cuisine with respect to culinary customs. Typical dishes include fresh seafood, roast beef and game meat. Sweets not to be missed are maple syrup, Nanaimo bar (made with waffles) and doughnuts.

Alcoholic beverages are only available in specialty stores. However, typical Canadian drinks are ice wine (characterized by its sweetness), beer and Canadian whiskey. If you decide to try Canadian food in a restaurant, don’t forget to leave a 10-15% tip when paying. Not doing so is considered rude.

#4. Wedding

Traditionally, Canadians still get married in church. At the end of the ceremony, guests throw rice or wheat to the bride and groom, symbolizing fertility. The bride’s dress is white. She usually wears her face covered by a veil. Also, it is typical that he wears something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue.

It is common to form a “bride’s wheel” at the banquet: guests form two lines and pay a dollar or more to dance with one of the newlyweds. In the French region of Canada, they have their own customs. The most important is the “sock dance”: the unmarried brothers of the bride and groom wear funny socks and dance while the guests throw money. Another French origin tradition is to meet at the bride’s house and then travel by caravan to the wedding. The cars honk their horns to let people know that a couple is getting married.

#5. Sports

Sport is another crucial aspect of Canadian culture and is very popular with all ages. The national sports are ice hockey and lacrosse, which is played in the summer. Canadians learn to play field hockey at an early age, as competitions are held in school and university. The National Hockey League (NHL) attracts millions of viewers every year. Another outstanding sport is basketball. Although it is not played as much, it is followed by a large part of the population, especially the NBA competitions (National Basketball Association).

Want to Move to Canada?

Want to experience these traditions and celebrations? It’s not surprising why many people considering migration as their primary option are thinking about Canada. The advantages of settling in Canada are apparent: it is a great country with beautiful landscapes, developed culture, and many opportunities. Once you are ready to leave, call RNR-CANADINE MIGRATION CONSULTATION, and they will help you pack all your belongings, whether you want to send a few boxes or the contents of your home. Let’s start packing!