About Canada

Population: 34,600,000
Capital City: Ottawa
Official Language(s): English & French
Currency: Canadian Dollar
Calling Code: +1

The country of Canada is located in the north of the North American continent, and covers a vast area of land. A former British colony, this country of some 32 million inhabitants is a huge and fascinating place to visit.

Background Information and Culture in Canada

Despite sharing a border with arguably the most influential and richest country in the world, Canada still maintains a unique culture and identity. With British, first nations, French and now many Asian immigrants all adding to the melting pot, Canada is one of the world’s true multi-cultural societies. Indeed, multiculturalism is enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Canada is vast in both size and culture, from the French speaking areas of Quebec to the First Nations areas, to the bustling cities of Toronto and Vancouver.

Being so close to the United States, there is of course a great influence through business and the media, but conversely, Canadian entertainers, artists and products are also popular south of their border. Canadians are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality, and this is an important part of “being Canadian”.

Sports in Canada are, as with many countries around the world, an important part of the national psyche. Winter sports are the most popular, with hockey being the number one spectator sport. In 2010, Canada hosted the Winter Olympics in Vancouver and Whistler – The perfect hosts!

Must See Highlights in Canada

Some of the must see highlights of Canada include -

The Rockies

A Hockey game

Friendly people

Credit: Rob Pearce