Canada’s wild northern frontier and its distinct patchwork of peoples have created a country that is decidedly different from its brash neighbor.

It’s the edginess between Canada’s indigenous French and British traditions that gives the nation its complex three-dimensional character. Add to this a constant infusion of US culture and a plethora of traditions brought by migrants, and you have a thriving multicultural society.

Best Times to Visit
Spring, summer and autumn are all ideal for touring Canada, though if you want to ski, you’ll obviously have to come in winter or early spring. For campers, and those who want to visit the far north, the summer months of July and August are best. Summer is also when many of the country’s festivals take place. Note that the peak tourist season is between Victoria Day (late May) and Labour Day (early September). Spring and autumn have fewer crowds, lower prices, and a more relaxed pace than the summer months. Some visitor-oriented facilities and attractions may be closed during these shoulder seasons.

Weather in Canada
Canadian winters are long and hard with temperatures in January averaging -18C (-.4F). July and August are the warmest months with temperatures in the south of Canada in the upper 20C (low 80F).

Safety Issues
Canada is a relatively safe place to live and travel, with crime rates much lower than the US. Take the obvious good-sense precautions, to avoid being a victim of petty theft, by keeping your valuables concealed, both on your person and in your car, and avoid walking alone through dubious areas.

In Canada you are more likely to get a bit of grief from Mother Nature with black flies and mosquitoes incessantly swarming you in the woods at certain times of the year. Black flies are at their worst from late May through the end of June. Mosquitoes can be a bother from early spring until early autumn. Ticks are also an issue, especially from March to June.

Wild animals may be one of Canada’s greatest assets, but they can also present a serious danger if you invade their turf. Bear encounters are common and mountain lions roam around British Columbia but they are very solitary and rarely seen. Elk, deer and moose can present a problem when driving, especially at night in rural areas.

Crossing The Border
Personal items such as sports equipment, cameras and laptops can be brought into Canada without much trouble. Declaring these items to Customs as you cross the border might save you some hassle when you leave. Under most circumstances, it is illegal to bring firearms, pepper spray or mace into Canada. And of course all illegal drugs are prohibited. Proper identification is a must and a passport is now the required form of ID.

Canada will amaze you with its natural beauty and entertain you with its cultural excitement.