Canadian specifics
From some of the wonders of the world to rollercoasters, and from Shakespeare to storytelling, it’s virtually all in Ontario, says PAUL COLE
ONTARIO is beautiful, vibrant and ignites all the senses. A trip to the province can tick off many of Canada’s signature experiences. There you’ll find Niagara Falls, Canada’s historic capital Ottawa and the normally bustling city of Toronto.
The good news is that, even in lockdown, you can visit them virtually from your armchair as you make post-corona holiday plans.
Here are five of the best virtual experiences to discover Ontario now.
EXPERIENCE THE JAW-DROPPING BEAUTY OF NIAGARA FALLS
ONE of nature’s greatest wonders, Niagara Falls, is surely on everyone’s bucket list.
A staggering 150,000 gallons of water pass over the 57-metre-high falls per second and now, visitors can get up close and personal to the falls and the Niagara River on a number of tours, even while they’re at home.
Check out a collection of 360-degree videos to virtually experience the world-famous attraction.
How: niagarafallstourism.com/vr/
FLY OVER 1,000 ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK BY HELICOPTER
THE stunning 1,000 Islands National Park is made up of picturesque granite islands and windswept pine trees, making it a popular holiday location for locals and travellers alike.
Each island offers the opportunity to explore secluded bays, camp out in nature and take to the water by kayak.
Usually, the islands are only accessible by boat but thanks to a thrilling 360° helicopter tour, armchair travellers can get a taste of the park themselves.
Visit YouTube to explore the islands, thanks to 1,000 Islands Helicopter Tours.
How: youtube.com/watch?v=zOLsjl vPxms&feature=youtu.be
GET YOUR HEART RACING ON A VIRTUAL ROLLERCOASTER
CANADA’S Wonderland is bringing the amusement park experience to homes across the world with virtual rides.
You can take in 16 rollercoasters, 11 thrill rides and seven family rides with first-person ‘point-of-view’ (POV) videos.
They’re a great way for children, who might not be tall enough to ride in real life, to get a feel for the action.
Or perhaps you can dare a nonthrill seeker to test their stomachs and take a look!
For an even more exhilarating experience, plug in your VR headset and load the videos to a phone or gaming system.
How: youtube.com/user/ CanadasWonderlandPR
SHAKESPEARE ON DEMAND
THE Stratford Festival is North America’s largest classical repertory theatre company, based far away from Shakespeare’s original UK home.
Because this is Stratford, Ontario. Each season the group performs classical productions, contemporary dramas and, as you like it, Shakespeare’s plays.
Those who are missing their night at the theatre can kick back and watch many of the Bard’s best-loved works performed by the group for a couple of pounds.
The full list of productions and how to watch on demand can be viewed online.
How: stratfordfestival.ca/Watchand Explore/OnDemand
GET ARTY AND GET ENTERTAINED
THE small city of Kingston, located between Toronto and Montréal, is a city of musicians, makers, and creators. There’s a vibrant arts and culture scene that engages residents and also entices tourists.
Visit Kingston has invited the ‘makers’ to take over their social channels, performing concerts, guiding parents through craft creating, showcasing their artistry and sharing their passion and creativity with the world.
A schedule of ‘makers’ videos includes stained glass art tutorials, storytelling and a bilingual music class for children.
Don’t worry if you’ve missed one though, as past videos can be also be viewed online.
How: visitkingston.ca/makers/ together-at-home/
Canada’s second-largest province, Ontario covers more than a million square km. It’s larger than France and Spain combined