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Is Canada more than
maple trees ? It sure is. The majority of
travelers are attracted by the opportunity to explore Canada's wilderness
areas, natural wonders and low-key rural charm, but there is a lot more to
Canada than maple trees, Niagara Falls and wide open spaces. Also, few
countries in the world offer as many choices to the world traveler as
Canada. Whether your passion is skiing, sailing, museum-combing or
indulging in exceptional cuisine, Canada has it all. A land of vast
distances and rich natural resources, Canada became a
self-governing dominion in 1867 while
retaining ties to the British crown. Economically and technologically the
nation has developed in parallel with the US, its neighbor to the south
across an unfortified border. Its paramount political problem continues to
be the relationship of the province of Quebec, with its French-speaking
residents and unique culture, to the remainder of the country. The Capital
of Canada is Ottawa.
The estimated population in
July 2000 was 31,281,092 people. The
ethnic origin of the Canadians can be subdivided like this : British
Isles origin 28%, French origin 23%, other European 15%, Amerindian 2%,
other, mostly Asian, African, Arab 6%, mixed background 26%. The main
religions are : Roman Catholic 42%, Protestant 40%, other 18%. As most
will now, Canada is divided in two language zones : English 59.3%
(official), French 23.2% (official), other 17.5% . Canada is a
complex country made up of different influences
: the French and British traditions, the own Canadian indigenous culture
and a constant infusion of US culture and a plethora of traditions
brought from Europe, Asia and Latin America by migrants. This results in a
thriving multi-cultural society very much in the process of forming its
own identity. 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.
As an affluent,
high-tech industrial society, Canada today closely resembles
the US in its market-oriented economic system, pattern of production, and
high living standards. Since World War II, the impressive growth of the
manufacturing, mining, and service sectors has transformed the nation from
a largely rural economy into one primarily industrial and urban. Real
rates of growth have averaged nearly 3.0% since 1993. Unemployment is
falling and government budget surpluses are being partially devoted to
reducing the large public sector debt. Two shadows loom, the first being
the continuing constitutional impasse between English- and French-speaking
areas, which has been raising the possibility of a split in the
federation. Another long-term concern is the flow south to the US of
professional persons lured by higher pay, lower taxes, and the immense
high-tech infrastructure.
Not
only is there a contrast in language, but also in landscape and identity.
The western part of Canada is renowned
for its stunningly beautiful countryside. Stroll through
Vancouver's Stanley Park, overlooking
the blue waters of English Bay or ski the slopes of world-famous
Whistler-Blackcomb, surrounded by thousands of hectares of pristine
forestland. For a cultural experience, you can take an Aboriginal nature
hike to learn about Canada's First Nations' history and cuisine, while
outdoorsmen can river-raft, hike or heli-ski the thousands of kilometers
of Canada's backcountry, where the memories of gold prospectors and
pioneers still flourish today.
The flavor and charm of Europe is mixed with the trendiness of New York in
the eastern part of Canada.. Toronto
boasts an irresistible array of ethnic restaurants, bakeries and shops ,
while Charlottetown,
Canada's birthplace, is located amidst the rolling fields and sandy
Atlantic beaches of Prince Edward Island. Between the two, ancient
Quebec City is a world unto itself:
the oldest standing citadel in North America and the heart of Quebecois
hospitality. And let's not forget : the French charm of the mighty city of
Montreal.
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