The big city
Toronto is often likened to a friendlier New York, with all the attractions of a world-class city. There’s something to see or do at any hour. Take a ride up CN Tower for the best views of the town, wander the beautiful, quiet suburbs and pop into Casa Loma castle, enjoy the dining and culture, and don’t miss the live sport – be it baseball with the Blue Jays, basketball from the Raptors or the frenzy of ice hockey with the Maple Leafs.
From Toronto, it’s about an hour and a half’s drive on a well-maintained highway to the world-famous Niagara Falls, just across the river from New York state.
Go French
Take a break from North America with a trip to France, in the province of Quebec. Here, most everyone speaks French – one of Canada’s two national languages – though in Montreal, you’ll find plenty of help in English.
Also visit Quebec City – a marvellous riverside spot known for its old buildings and streets, with a distinctly European vibe. Be sure to try poutine (so much more than just fries with gravy) and authentic Montreal bagels.
Beautiful BC
From Vancouver to the Rockies to charming Vancouver Island, there’s a lot to love about British Columbia. It’s renowned for its year-round beauty, but it really shines in the summertime.
Take a trip back in time in the island capital of Victoria, and take a run or walk around Vancouver’s beautiful Stanley Park for interesting harbour views, a lot of squirrels, and the totem poles. And no Kiwi rugby fan should miss the annual Vancouver Sevens.
East coast charm
Escape the big-city hustle by jetting over to Nova Scotia on Canada’s southeastern tip. On a fine day, visit coastal towns like the quaint Peggy’s Cove village, go whale-watching off the rugged coast, or sail across to one of its many quiet islands.
Nova Scotia is big on lobster, and visitors are encouraged to chow down. For a totally different adventure experience, you can also be a lumberjack for a day – or simply hit the wineries in Annapolis Valley.