Chapter 1




	What the World Thinks of Canada by Joe Bourgeois

	Chapter 1 - Travelers in Canada

		In this chapter are comments from tourists travelling in Canada. A notebook was placed in various Hostels across the country for travellers to write about their experience and impressions of Canada. I’ve stepped from Coquitlam, BC to the rusty roads of PEI. I’ve been lucky enough to travel roads in Europe Napolean might have spit on; I spent a year teaching, bathing sweated and naked in the copper waters of Bartien, Guyana; I’ve tiptoed across northern Africa; I was born, grew up, and now live in Australia. One thing has struck me - hard, in the face - about Canada that never occurred to me in any other of my travels: Canada humbly, modestly, flaunts its diversity at you around each of its thousand corners. Never in my life have I met in one nation such a diverse population. Of course, in a land of such varied identity, it is inevitable that serious tensions develop - like those evidenced by Quebec’s bid to separate. But even in such a non-federalist gesture, I sense something uniquely Canadian. It seems that Canadians from every region are dedicated investigators, albeit with a smidgen of laziness thrown in here and there. What I mean is that Canadians are quick to cry their uniqueness - but this uniqueness is in flux, they are forever investigating themselves and their country in an attempt to discover what it is, exactly, that makes them unique. The answer seems elusive - to both Canadians and foreigners. But there is something. Of course, American pop culture has left its mark here in Canada as it has in all other Western nations and industrialized countries - and Canada, as with others, has developed a dependency, an addiction. Canadians, however, seem better equipped with tools such as sarcasm, self-examination, and critical tolerance, which help them deal with Americanization in healthier ways. The virtual thread that unites Canada is truly unique: it is that Canadians cannot stop asking themselves “what is Canada, who are Canadians?” Americans know the USA, Brits know the British, Germans know themselves, Asians understand their collective personality. There are few secrets there. But Canadians for the life of them, have only questions about themselves. And thank God. It is tremendously more enjoyable to meet people whose pride in their country is inexplicable, perplexing, and diverse - then to meet the same pride and the same collective personality wherever you go. Oddly enough, Canada’s strength is also it’s weakness, in my opinion. Because though, it might be selfish, or conceited, or overly-boisterous, it does a population well at time to have a fiercely identifiable trait behind which everyone can rally. And the beaver, or the loony, or hockey, or the maple leaf, can only go so far in this case. Something more tangible is needed, some concrete, discernible image. A fine country, Canada. No utopia, obviously, just fine. B.E.M. Queensland, Australia * Before I begin I will tell you where I am from so that you don’t have to read the very end first. I am from Wellington, New Zealand, a city that has a population similar to Victoria’s. I cannot make any comments on Canada’s politics as I know very little. I can tell you what I think of Canada and Canadians. Canadians are as everyone knows, very polite and very helpful. I have had people in the street ask me if I needed directions anywhere, without even asking for any. Their politeness always seems sincere and not like ‘a recorded message’ which must be repeated when necessary. New Zealand shop assistants are helpful most of the time (but Canadians are better at it). Keep up the good work as it encourages tourists to spend, spend, spend! I have only ventured as far East as Calgary, as far north as Jasper and as far south as Victoria. British Columbia and Alberta have stunning scenery which is so accessible. I have always wanted to come to Canada because I don’t know any New Zealander who has been here who doesn’t like this country. Canada is better than I imagined. It is funny though, that someone (like myself) should come all this way to get away from their own country for a while, only to find that they really enjoy it because in many ways it reminds them of New Zealand. Stupid I know. I have heard that Canadians are dreadful drivers and are even worse than New Zealander’s! I don’t know if I agree. A couple of times now, my friend and I have hired a car to use when on Vancouver Island. It was all very daunting at first because New Zealander’s drive on the left hand side of the road. However, I have found the driving experience enjoyable as Canadians appear slow to anger and very tolerant. I have done the odd wrong thing while driving and expected to be abused but I was wrong. In New Zealand I would have been ‘hooted’ into embarrassment by other drivers. I’m getting carried away now and must move onto other issues. I have seen quite a lot of begging around Canada which I was a little surprised to see. After all Canada has the highest standard of living in the world. I suppose there are beggars everywhere in the world but I guess I didn’t expect Canada to have them. Another thing that I have noticed is the great number of people who smoke. New Zealand is almost ‘smoke-free’ and therefore is very noticeable when a New Zealander comes to a country that’s smoking issues have yet to catch up. I was told that Canadians are very health conscious with their eating and exercising. Why then do so many people smoke? Only Canadians can answer that one. Taxes would have to be the biggest pain in the butt that this country has. New Zealand has a GST and has it incorporated into the price which is displayed for the purchaser. There is not a day that I haven’t been caught out, thinking that a price has been reasonable and forgetting that the tax has to be added. How can anyone ever have the exact money to hand over, without having to wait for the ‘subtotal’ on the cash register, and then diving into their purses and wallets without holding anyone up? Please change the system. New Zealand has managed to, so why can’t Canada? As for Canada being the best country to live in, I cannot comment on as I have not been here long enough to know. I do know however, that I wouldn’t mind living here for a while and I would enjoy doing so. New Zealand is a pretty good country to live in so there is probably no reason for me to leave it for any great length of time. Jane O. Wellington, New Zealand * When I arrived at Toronto International Airport I was a little nervous - how would I explain the fact that I had a Canadian passport with 'Johannesburg' inked as my birthplace. Believe me, no Rand McNally map has Johannesburg positioned closer to Canada than by a good many thousand kilometers! Truth is, my grandfather was born in Canada and that enabled me to carry a Canadian passport. Amazing how quick a bureaucratic line moves when you are confused or nervous. I handed the passport across. "Born in South Africa?" "Yes", I replied. "Returning to Canada?" "Yes", I replied. "WELCOME HOME." These two words would frame my entire journey through Canada. Everywhere I went from Montreal to Vancouver, Canadians seemed to be welcoming me home. Always helpful, ever cheerful, and perpetually relaxed, the Canadians I met made me proud to be travelling on that passport, proud of that part of me. Sure I've met my share of lost and desperate souls, but even they seem somewhat hopeful that Canada will rescue them. May their faith be rewarded in the same way my great expectations were exceeded. Many of its cities seem vacuous and stagnant but this has the effect (hopefully) of strengthening an appreciation for the enlightenment that Canada's nature offers. Incredible landscape, as eclectic as the people it cradles, helps to shape my feelings toward my second home - I am positively in one of the most beautifully diverse places on earth. As my travels through Canada continue I hope to feel continually more at home. As I am welcomed in Canada, I welcome the Canadian in me. Proudly part Canadian! Andrew H. Durban, South Africa * Oh Canada...My first visit to Canada was for the Christmas before last, of which I spent in Ontario; travelling up to Montreal, Quebec City and Ottawa. It was my first white Christmas, the best that I can do in order of describing the quaint beauty I encountered was 'Christmas-card' like. All that fell before me was a stunning scene of nature, thickly dusted with a stark white powder-puff of snow. It was as though someone had walked painstakingly across the land and placed each drip from the branch of a tree, each snow flake resting on the few leaves still surviving the winter, each minute detail, to planned perfection. This visit, it is summer and I am in the West, a very diverse experience from the first. Flying into Vancouver first, I was greeted by a customs official about as friendly and happy as a bear with a toothache and suffering from PMS!! Vancouver, in my opinion is designed so uniquely beautiful -its architecture so appealing and the atmosphere the streets ooze, has characteristics for both the young and young at heart. My travels then included journeys to Vancouver Island and then here to Calgary. The best way I can sum up the Canadians, which is a very different outlook to what I had imagined before first-hand experience, its that they are either eagerly ready to help and take you in with open arms, or are resigned to being vague, dismissive and quite off-hand. Though a pessimistic view, I felt that for every person ready to help, there were two just as ready to hinder. I have found the rugged beauty of the West to be both awe-inspiring and breathtaking, making for a delicious equality in contrast between the East and West. I have enjoyed my travels immensely, and whether it be sooner or later I will be back to conquer the rest of beautiful Canada with so much to offer. Brooke E. Victoria, Australia * I visited Ontario first mainly to stay with English friends (I’m English) so I didn’t meet as many Canadians as I might have done. On the whole those I met were very friendly. My favourite example is when I was walking along a street in the Polish district of Vancouver talking to myself. Someone answered me! That’s friendly. Certainly no one would in England. Otherwise, in Toronto people were approachable, always ready for a chat and went out of their way to help. Unusual, again, in my experience for a big city. Kingston was different, very insular and white, middle class, the privileged getting their education at the university and tourists looking at houses. The very worst thing about being in Ontario without a car was the total lack of transport to get you out into the wilderness. The nearby Frontenac Park was inaccessible to those without a car, therefore those without money, both tourists and locals. Which is quite a frightening observation in a country whose greatest asset is its countryside. I managed through help from friends and friends of friends to get there and it is well cared for and there is plenty of information. I must also say that I couldn’t find a lot of information while I was in England about Canada, although there’s plenty in the main information centres when you arrive. I wasn’t too keen to go from city to city and having spent a lot on a ticket already, not happy to spend more travelling huge distances. This probably made it more difficult for me. I’ve spent the last three weeks in BC. Vancouver itself has a wonderful bus service and the parks are easily accessible. My first impression was being totally smothered in friendliness. On my way from the airport to the hostel, everyone was fascinated in my story, helpful and interesting. The hostel was loud, noisy but great fun. The Canadians I met in BC are less insulated than those I met in Ontario. They seem to want to know about strangers and travellers. In Toronto the different ethnic groups seem happy to live isolated from each other but in Vancouver they seem to mix more. Everyone talks to you, in shops, in coffee bars, in the street. I don’t feel at all threatened as a woman alone (perhaps I should) but the cities are so ‘uncityish’, it’s hard to get worried after having travelled and lived in European cities. My own impressions of Canada before I left were limited. Except perhaps that everything is big. But I didn’t realize how big and it’s taken a lot of time for that to sink in. Everything is big, the views, the trees, the park benches, the ice creams - the list goes on. In England we live close together, jealously guarding our space, so this difference is a great culture shock. Yes, Canadians are friendly, they are also not too gushy or over the top (the English hate that). However, I think they are too bound by rules. As if the rules are created and kept to, somehow, keep out the vastness of the wilderness. I wish that just once someone would park their big car in a small car space!! Just once! Victoria is especially neat and tidy and although I’ve enjoyed the alternative side to it, the sheer toy-town aspect is frustrating and superficial. Again it’s a way of looking at things. Perhaps the cleanliness and conforming give people a chance to explore other aspects. I’ve heard so much about the Environment here, it’s an emotional issue. The subject is much too huge for me to fully comprehend. However, I feel that we in England must begin to understand something of what’s happening. Most people don’t understand where a large percentage of our wood and paper come from. They don’t know the forests aren’t endless. It seems amazing that so much has been lost. Like losing your heritage in those huge ancient trees. I heard also that bears are still hunted. I can’t quite see how that can be justified. In Europe bears are a rarity. In Spain they are held as something rare and to be in awe of. I was amazed to find that here there are so many and that it’s okay to kill them. There seems some sort of dichotomy in the environmental concerns. All I can really conclude is that at least people are aware and hopefully a lot of it will be saved before it’s too late. As for the native issue I see many different things here. I went to a lecture on Rita Joe. She loves her sewers but there are no sewers, no jobs and no way of creating them. Even her attempts to start an artist colony failed. She is level, calm and not angry. Maybe she should be. In BC the shops ooze with native art, in galleries apparently run by white Caucasians. The natives are on the streets begging. How can this be so? The museum sets it out as fairly as possible. Canadians in there said things like ‘But they were intelligent’ as if that’s a surprise. Educated people have to think twice because somehow they’ve been brainwashed into believing they [the native people] are savages. Maybe not in so many words but that’s what it boils down to. Driving along the areas of trailers with native shops outside, where do the whites live? In huge architect-planned houses with lots of land. Whose land?! The whole issue is very emotive to me, partly because a lot of the damage was done by the English, my ancestors. That the problem continues is obvious. Those tourist shops are better than nothing but until they are run and staffed by natives, where’s the hope? The problem is huge, they need respect and more chances. Which means education and jobs and opportunities. They can’t all be skilled artists anyway. So what happens to everyone else? In conclusion, I feel that Canada is aware of its image but perhaps not enough. Mainly I think people outside of Canada don’t give it much thought. Maybe to visit, to trek in the Rockies, or the odd TV program. So the problem perpetuates itself. I hope that Canadians continue to try and work on their problems. Protect the wilderness for the world and take a fresh view of the ethnic and native issues. Canada has hope and chances. Far more than jaded, old England can boast. We blew most of it a long time ago. Don’t blow it here. A lot of what is here, Europeans only get to see on the TV. Look after it. As for the best country to live in. All I can say to that is: for whom? Judith A. North Tewkesbury, England * I am a linguistic student from Japan, and have stayed in Blood Indian Reserve for about two months, to study Blackfoot. That was my third summer. What I like about Canada is its diversity, especially its diversity of people. There may be no particular image for 'Canadian': it includes white people, black people, Chinese, Japanese, Ukrainians, all the native peoples and still others. You should respect each of the cultures, and your country will be much richer. But I also know that its diversity sometimes causes conflicts, it's a sad thing. I hope travellers from overseas are enjoying their stay in Canada. I will come back! Akihiro M. Kyoto, Japan * Canadian men are so conservative. How do you get them to kiss you? Cass A. Wales * Catch them in the intermissions when Hockey Night in Canada is on, that’s how! D. Jager * Canada - after having travelled around Australia and New Zealand, this was the next place on my list. In terms of geography, I was interested in the Rockies, which I imagine is what many people think of when planning a trip here. Unfortunately, Canada should take a leaf out of oz and New Zealand’s book, because they have to be the easiest places in the world to travel round. There aren’t enough hostels here, and from what I’ve seen there are definitely enough travellers to justify more, because booking places in advance is turning out to be an unwanted hassle. Hostels other than the YHI ones seem very dodgy, trying to cram in as many people as possible. Canadians are very friendly, which always helps. I hope they don’t become as cheesy as the Americans, thankfully no one has said ‘Have a nice day!’ so far! A lot of people seem very concerned about the environment, which is good, I’ve heard loads about Clayoquot Sound and other such places. It’s easy to think ‘Christ I’ve seen forests as big as England!’ but it won’t last forever if clear cutting is allowed to continue unabated. I’ve also heard a bit about Quebec, most of it unfriendly. The ‘we don’t want them in our country anyway’ attitude seems to prevail in the smaller communities, whilst the more cosmopolitan people of cities such as Victoria and Vancouver seem to appreciate the cultural diversity that Quebec gives Canada. After all, we can’t all be lumberjacks! Politics seems very confusing, but that’s politics for you. I know little about the native issues, other than the people that I’ve seen seem to be doing Okay, and Canada doesn’t seem to shun its aboriginals like other countries. As for whether Canada is ‘the best country to live in’, that is entirely up to personal perception. I’d like to see how the UN came up with that result. There are better and worse places, again - entirely up to the individual. But Canada is a good place, next time, I’ll come with someone else, buy a car and bring a tent - because that is the only way to experience the real Canada. Phil H. Stockport, Cheshire England * Toronto is so much like an American city sprawl, it’s pathetic. The only thing missing is the proliferation of guns. Sure, it’s nice to walk the streets after midnight, but where is the national identity? If I didn’t know better, I’d think I’m walking through Chicago or Los Angeles. One of the major concerns of the ‘oui’ voters in Quebec was that Canada was becoming the 51st state. I think those concerns are pretty damn accurate. So, my advice - close your borders and stop American mass marketing influences from encroaching any further. Eliot Los Angeles, U.S.A. * Before I came here I had the picture of endless forests when I heard the word ‘Canada’. But that's only one impression I got in my four weeks holidays while driving or hiking through the western part between Calgary and Vancouver. I saw wonderful landscape I can't describe, also a lot of animals, huge trees, wonderful flowers... So I felt that I discovered and learned to know real nature that is still in balance I have nearly never seen before. But I know that there are many problems as well, that the landscape is going to be destroyed by cutting trees, building new highways, etc. Everyone of us human beings supports that by driving cars, taking plastic bags when going shopping and so on. So did I - I came by airplane and rented a car to see all the beauty. We all have to think about our responsibility for our earth. The Canadian people I met were mainly very friendly and open. It makes me feel good to get a smile! Thanks a lot! Regina R. Germany * Canada is a vast nation unknown to most Americans. Americans find Canada quite difficult to comprehend. Canadians are neither British nor American, yet they are very familiar with both Britain and America. Canada is not a part of the US yet borders it across the continent and along the Alaskan land mass. English Canadians speak a form of English unfamiliar to even educated Americans. Americans are totally unaware of Canadian feelings. The American mind just fogs over faced by Canada. The American form of cognition denies any subtlety that the Canadian spirit offers it. It is a great thing to see a moose along Trans-Canada for the first time, or, to see a fox trotting through Dryden, Ontario. The road from Boissevain, Manitoba to Winnipeg is one long introduction to Canadian land use - tremendous farms that have an appearance starkly different to North Dakota. Canadians are discrete. One wonders to what extent one can know them. To be even-handed, night in Sault Ste Marie is boisterous. But Michigan is another world. Western Canada is reminiscent of old California. Much social decay has been avoided here. Americans are aggressive, they could learn much by means of a close and serious understanding of Canadian manners. They could learn much by watching closely how Canadians drive. Americans like to learn. They are proud of what they know. To teach Americans one must be extremely discerning as to exactly what Americans want to know. They hate boredom. Western Canada is a good example of California. One must note that there are bad feelings between the two countries. Economic realities are much of this trouble, but in the human dimension mutual ignorance is a sure path to mistakes. Mistakes can be corrected one by one. To correct them is worth the time and trouble. Human beings have little excuse to be stupid. After the Group of Seven, Canadian painting took a wrong turn away from Canada. Canadian pride is deeper than Britain can know. French Canadians are Canadians in the end. The native past must be remembered and no longer forgotten. It is the spiritual bedrock of Canada. Native Canadians need the right kind of help from European Canadians. That there are many Ukrainians in Manitoba and Thunder Bay came as a surprise to me. Canada is a truly magnificent country uniquely its own space both natural and humanely made. Canadians are a force for the good in a world spinning insanely towards abysmal folly. The Canadian lobby in Washington might be a good place to start. Western Canadians ought not forget Sacramento and certain places in San Francisco. Canadians should avoid the mistakes of America with firm resolve. Mutual knowledge will lead to good friendship. Jack San Francisco, California * My opinions of Canada: after visiting numerous provinces I feel qualified to comment. Comparisons with England: corporate commercialization of every single thing is pretty bad here (I’m surprised this book isn’t ‘brought to you by Taco Bell’). Also TV is a problem, give me the BBC instead of 54 channels of crap any day (also too many commercials). Scenery - well, you’ve got the Rockies - we’ve got Scotland?! Just kidding. Your scenery kicks ass. You beat us on actual landscapes. But I think we have some nicer towns. Canadian cities get a bit ‘samey’ - same malls, same shops, etc. Everybody says ‘they’re [Canadians] so friendly - much friendlier than English ‘. This is not the whole truth. What is the real case is English people are just more reserved. We don’t shove our addresses at you after five minutes. A result of living in a country with too many psycho’s. I did enjoy being able to chat to Canadians in bars. They are much more approachable than some other nations. They understand my humour a bit better than most yanks - irony, dry, sarcasm, etc. The transport system is good but the sheer size of Canada is daunting to an Englishman who’s never 30 minutes from another town. The typical Canadian needs to learn its football, not soccer (just kidding). They are obsessed by hockey and The Tragically Hip (they’re not bad either). I don’t think they are too shy, well not the girl I met in a Toronto club anyway, but that’s another story.... I like Canadians, good sense of humour in general, they find out you’re a traveller and are willing to help. My favourite Canadians (so far) are newfies - a huge laugh, very funny, when you can understand them and they can handle their beer which is nice. Hitchhiking is mixed. Sometimes good, sometimes bad. One newfie old lady took me two hours out of her way. Cool. Changes to Canada: none really. But small things like one commercial break per show would be nice. Quebec and separatism, well we get this in the UK, the Scots want out, so do the Welsh (I’d say, ‘fine go’). You never hear an Englishman wanting to separate from Scotland!? But I think what’s the point of borders, we don’t need more barriers but less. I get sick of this ‘Oh, we are losing our culture’ crap. If your culture isn’t strong enough to survive, maybe it doesn’t deserve to. Quebec will do just fine in Canada. So the UN thinks Canada is the best country to live in? Well maybe they haven’t been to England (joke). I’m too biased to say, I could live here but I wouldn’t, but I will return. That’s it, sorry for going on too long and don’t take anything too seriously, afterall, I’m an Englishman. Dominic Birmingham, England * This is my first visit to Canada and my first outside of continental Europe and Great Britain. I've been in Canada approximately 7 weeks now, having flown into Vancouver in July. I am working as a housekeeper in Banff. What of Canada? I'm both delighted and disappointed of Canada so far. The scenery - particularly in the Rockies is spectacular and bewildering and the people I have met so far have been overwhelmingly friendly, helpful and interesting. The country is clean and well-managed and SAFE!! On the other hand however, Canada has yet to be all that I thought it would be - it's hard to say what is missing - I think a sense of identity; of character; of history. There is something lacking in Canada's cities (certainly not in her landscape or rural areas) - atmosphere, crowds, architecture - something. Having said all that, I'm enjoying myself - every new experience is worth having even if you wouldn't repeat it, and Canada is, in places, noticeably less commercialized than some touristy areas of Britain and Europe. One final (and only semi-serious) point - vegetarianism! When is the concept going to catch on here ?! I've never found it so difficult to get good, healthy, non-meat foodstuffs anywhere in the world, including areas of Eastern Europe! Sandra C. Bristol, England * I have lived and worked in Canada for 11 months - I am from New Zealand. I have lived in both Alberta and BC, the latter being my preference - it reminds me of home. Canadians in general are very good people and are justifiably proud of their nation and its diverse culture and heritage. A specific point that would make Canada an easier if less frustrating travel destination would be a nationalisation of the currency, its denominations and sales tax, such like the system hailed as extremely successful in New Zealand. In New Zealand we have a 12.5% GST (goods and services tax), it is virtually always (by public demand) included in the marked prices at retail point of sale (the price marked or quoted is the total price). Retail prices are rounded, as much as possible to the most practical denomination such as the dollar. One cent coins were decirculated about eight years ago. We have never looked back. All retail prices are rounded to the nearest five cent figure. Our legal tender consists of 5, 10, 20, 50, $1 and $2 coins, $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 bills - very,very efficient. I find paying $1.09 or $1.34 each time I have a cup of coffee pathetic, trivial and quite simply a waste of time. Each time I move house I routinely dispose of handfuls of pennies. However a beautiful, special country nonetheless. The UN is almost right, next to New Zealand, Canada is the best place to live. R.H. Auckland, New Zealand * I first came to Canada last February/March to ski, dog-sled/camp. I was impressed with the polite reception I received, the friends I made and of course the beauty of the Rockies and coastal mountains so I decided to return in the summer for a longer stay to see if it really is as good as it seemed - it is! Again, seven weeks is not long enough to get to know a country and its people but I think I am beginning to. What strikes me most, is the friendliness of the people. Not only those ‘taking your money’, (even then you seem to get the same polite service whether you are buying a 50 cent post card or an expensive item), but people you meet in cafe’s or bars or just passing in the street; they seem to want to talk or help. So, politeness and friendliness has perhaps impressed me the most. The racial integration seems to work well here (I guess you are a mix of races - English, French, Irish, Scots, Welsh, etc.) but there seems to be a harmony among the newer ethnic immigrants. Lack of police presence is another feature that has struck me and a feeling of ‘safeness’. This all sounds too good to be true and I guess it is not all like this all the time; I’m aware it is not, but to make these impressions it must be very real. On the good side finally, but certainly not least of all, the splendour of the natural features and its great diversity, only a little of which I’ve seen. My love is for the mountains and therefore most of my time has been spent in the Rockies. The coastal mountains, Vancouver Island and the West Coast. It is all so wonderful, long may it remain unspoilt and a wilderness. The bad points: clearcutting, too much smoking, people tell me some political corruption or at least collusion with business to push through certain policies (e.g. clearcutting?). Politics everywhere, I suppose I’m getting sceptical in my old age! Politics is politics! I don’t know of course, this is what I am told. Also the Native First Nation problem seems not to be resolved at all. It is a difficult problem, I can see all the arguments from all sides and have some of my own! I have neither the time, nor space to go into the native issues here, and I think, I am not informed enough to do so although I have formed opinions and recognise it is a difficult one, but please encourage their different cultures and languages. Quebec separation seems ridiculous to me and it seems a strange form of separation they want! Also, many I speak to say let them go but they must fend for themselves. I don’t know if Canada is the best place to live in but it must be high on the list - it is high on mine and, yes, I would like to live here. Keep Canada like it is and don’t spoil it. Thanks for having me, I’ll be back. Gerry L. Buxton, Derbyshire, England * Currently I am travelling around to find a new place to live. I have been to many places in many countries. Because cities do not really appeal to me I go only to ‘remote’ islands and the towns on those islands. Victoria is all I know of Canada. As of today I have been here five days. To me, trees are Canada’s most distinctive feature. The very tall conifers are so unlike the short deciduous trees I know in the Northeast US, and in Southern California, that a sense of wonder and claustrophobia sets in every time I see them. I can easily see why totem poles became so important to tribal peoples of this area. What could be a more lasting, beautiful or spiritual testament than the ancient tree. In general the Canadians I have met (from many parts of Canada) in Victoria are very noticeably Scottish in temperament. They are mostly kind, generous, friendly, outgoing, drawl their speech, are passionate about the homes, land, and pleasures, but react with seemingly endless patience about the things they see as ‘wrongs’ being done. I’m not sure whether this latter trait is a tacit streak of fatalism, or simply a reflection of the sure and certain knowledge that the land and the people will continue. Canadians seem to care very much about their environment in the cerebral sense but it is very plain they are ‘viscerally’ detached. Let’s face facts: this is an island. Tourism, number of autos, etc. ought to be controlled. They have hugeroads here - they seem to cater more to the autophiles here than in California - that’s a very heavy accusation. Also there’s land use. Why is 1/3 of the arable farmland under concrete? Why is the water riddled with taxoplasmosis - that the tourist board and mainstream government officials are covering up and denying. Instead of keeping an eye toward self-sufficiency the island is becoming increasingly dependent. And anything that grows dependent eventually suffers at the hands of those it is dependent on (in this case tourists). Human rights and native issues - are they not the same thing? I would say native culture is not as respected as it should (I was on one tour of the parliament house where we were extremely restricted because of bomb threats and natives chaining themselves to the building). Since I have been here I have heard of three standoffs in BC and two Mounties being shot (I read no news, watch no TV, listen to no radios and still this is what I heard from Canadians just talking on the bus). Everyone tells me the politics of the country are ‘messed up’, and highly fractionalised. I don’t know if that is true or not. I only go by people I meet. Are they living reasonably well, are the orderly in their living, respectful of others, etc. Canadians seem to be victims of their government in much the same way Americans and English people are. I did not know that Canada was voted best to live in, but I can understand that I suppose. It is reasonably clean, modern, nice environment. But let’s remember something here. You’ve got a bunch of people with mostly ‘first world as an ideal’ mentality, mostly male people. These folks are so brainwashed into ‘American’ life - face it, they all live in NewYork [referring to the UnitedNations]- they of course are going to see a slightly less power, less aggressive, more natural (e.g. a little neo-America), modern Canada as the ‘best’ place to live. To be honest, when I arrived, my reaction was - no thanks. Far too built up. Far too little concern for the well-being of the landwhich comes first or people. But it just depends on what you’re looking for. I’m not interested in a first world technology-oriented, purely greedy, profit-motivated society which I suppose is why it makes my choice for/against Canada a hard one. Much that is good is being allowed to slip away. I can see the dangers on the horizon and I’m just not sure I want to watch Victoria turn into New York. Already the streets are full of beggars and there are gangs at night too. I wouldn’t go out alone after dark. I hope that Canada learns from the mistakes of others, looks to her own people and history, and focuses on becoming not more, but better. Sophia S. Newbury Park, California U.S.A. * I have a lot to say about Canada. First of all the men are better looking here than in the States! What surprises me most is the rampant intolerance of East Coast Canadians. Quebecois despise Ontarians and vice versa. Also, Montreal has the worst drivers in North America, except for Vancouver, - it’s a tie. Seems to me a higher percentage of Canadians smoke compared to Americans. (Note: I refer to United States citizens as Americans for convenience. The term Yankee is one I find offensive, as I am a resident of Seattle. Go Mariners!) Perhaps it’s because you have free medical care, or maybe it’s due to your higher cost of living and you don’t want to die old and poor. Overall, your weather sucks. Too warm in summer, too cold in winter, like a hot fudge sundae. Of course, Victoria is the exception. What a great town! It’s clean, friendly, off-beat and funky. Love the attitude on cannabis, too. Although I don’t personally indulge, it’s silly to have ‘prohibition’ on this plant and its products. Walking past your government buildings, I’m curious about the ‘Office of the Conflict of Interest Minister’. Why do you sell milk in a pouch? How much do I weigh in kilograms? You’re not as stingy with your toilet paper in public restrooms - whoops, washrooms - as we are. We have these ‘trick dispensers’ so you don’t go hog-wild on this precious resource, have you noticed? Overall, the people I’ve met are funny and intelligent and capable of forming original thoughts. I love Canada and Canadians, eh? You’re great! Sue P. Seattle, U.S.A. * I spent a total of 10 months in Canada the year before last on an exchange year at the University of Toronto (and travelling afterwards) and this year I am back for a short holiday. My opinion of Canada is that politically and socially it is a country which tries very hard to accommodate different people and interests. For instance, the negotiations which have been attempted with Quebec show a willingness to accommodate Quebec's interests which I find lacking in my own country (calls for a Scottish and Welsh national assembly). Toronto also seems to make a real effort to promote the different cultures within the city - Chinese, Irish, Caribbean, etc. Although occasionally this effort does seem to go over the top into 'political correctness'. Generally I find Canadians very friendly and helpful - the standard of service in shops and restaurants is incredible compared to Britain and the cities feel very safe to walk around compared to many British cities. I think Canada is progressive on environmental and native issues - I studied native issues in Canada as part of my university course and found the contrasts between native policy in Canada and in the US and Australia instructive. I love Canada and hope to come back many, many more times!! Josie England * I've spent the past ten days in the Canadian Rockies hiking and camping in the back country of Banff National Park and Yoho. The mountains, valleys, meadows and rocky passes are breathtaking. My last day here I've spent in the city of Calgary, observing the day to day goings on of Calgarians. Two things I've specifically noticed and that differs for the US: 1) A large percentage of the population smokes. Which, to me, seems somewhat contradictory to Canadians robust/outdoor lifestyles. 2) In watching the professionals on their lunch break downtown, I noticed a very small amount of women. Are women not as accepted in the work force in Canada? Or are there merely fewer women as a whole in Canada? Just a thought. As a whole, I thoroughly enjoyed my stay in Canada and hope to visit again soon. Brenda B. Washington, DC * Before I came to Canada, I had a picture in my mind of staying in a wooden cabin by a lake surrounded by an endless forest. Snow falling down outside, I would be huddled around a log fire with grizzly bears roaming outside. Ha, ha. I guess much of the scenery is like that but I will have to come back in the winter for the snow. I have spent seven weeks altogether in Canada which has been really great. The first few weeks I spent in the Rockies between Banff and Jasper. I did a lot of hiking (about 10 km or more a day) in the mountains, the scenery was really spectacular - snow capped mountains, waterfalls, fresh clear running water through the valleys (very powerful which is carving magnificent shapes in rocks). Is saw breathtaking views of thick ice glaciers and of course the different species of wild animals and flowers. I could go on and on describing this beautiful land. I seemed to have enjoyed the Alberta Rockies to BC, maybe it's because I did much more outdoor activities in Alberta but I do agree very much with the other travellers opinions about chopping down too many trees, pollution and generally bringing harm to our environment. We have to be very careful that we do not destroy our world. I went to Whistler Mountain for a couple of days. I like the area by the Alta lake where the hostel is (very peaceful and impressive mountain scenery) but I hated Whistler Village. It is full of tourists and highrise buildings which has ruined the area - it does not look natural anymore. I wanted to walk up to the top of the mountain, so I asked the lady at the info desk where the trails started. She said I couldn't walk up, I would have to take the gondola for $18 but I could walk down. I can walk up, they're just after our money! I found the Canadian people very, very, very friendly in shops, supermarkets, restaurants, everywhere people were friendly to me. Back home, I don't find people to be as friendly as here - especially in the supermarkets where you don't expect them to be friendly all the time. They were so chatty. Overall my trip to Canada has been very enjoyable and I hope to come back another time to explore some more. Julie C. Mitcham, Surrey England * I have been in Canada now for about two months and am enjoying my time here although it is not at all as I expected it to be. In some ways the country seems extremely advanced in comparison to Britain. However, in other ways it seems very behind and backward, something I was not expecting to discover at all. The Rockies are absolutely amazing and truly worth seeing. Canadian cities however, all seem pretty much the same - empty and lacking anything individual character-wise. It would be so nice and refreshing to see a building with a history instead of plain, boring, square-tower blocks everywhere. The Canadian people I have met so far have been great; extremely friendly and helpful. A concern with the environment is also prevalent and it is possible to recycle most things wherever one goes. This is something that I wish would 'take off' more, so to speak, in Europe and I hope Canada continues to act in this vein. I still have three months left to travel and see some more of Canada and I expect to still enjoy it even if it doesn't quite live up to the image I came over with. Lindsey T. Hornchurch, Essex England * Canada is truly a vast and diverse country - each province has its own special ambience which derives from its location, history and people. How difficult it is to find comments which apply to regions as different as Nova Scotia - dominated by the Atlantic both economically and culturally - and Alberta with its confidence and wealth from oil revenues. I have only seen a small part of this country but I am overwhelmed by its natural splendours. Its people are incredibly welcoming and friendly - above all they like to talk and appear genuinely interested in visitor's experiences. Canadians are much more attentive than their British counterparts and offer excellent service in shops and restaurants. Despite the overall excellent impression there have been a few experiences which have saddened and disappointed me - I noticed especially how impoverished native Indians appear to be in Winnipeg and understand that a very high proportion are alcoholics or homeless or both. Surely this situation can be remedied. Also in the development of its natural splendours for the tourist industry Canada needs to avoid the sort of revolting tacky exhibits present in Niagara Falls. A couple of other gripes spring to mind - why is it so difficult to purchase alcohol for consumption at home? In Britain, I can buy beer, wine and spirits from supermarkets, wine merchants, corner shops, etc. Regulated liquor stores clearly do not prevent problems of alcoholism (see earlier comments). On a completely unrelated subject, why are the authorities in Ontario doing nothing (or very little) to clean up Lake Ontario so that people can swim in clean water in the summer months? Despite the minor complaints above, Canada is a wonderful country which I shall visit again - it should promote itself more widely in Britain! Rob H. Nottingham, England * I've travelled the Rockies and although it's nice, I really do prefer the inside passage and the country round from Prince Rupert to Prince George, BC. Not sure if I can say why. The people I've met have been really neat. I've hitched a lot and I've been welcomed into peoples homes with great friendship. I've run into the odd person, who wants life to be wonderful, without having to work for it. These people annoy me, first they seem to be around anyway. I wonder how long the Canadian tax payer is going to be paying for the lifestyle and benefits of the native population. Another hundred years? When are they going to learn, they too have to work for whatever they want in life, just like the rest of us. The French want their own country. Do they know what it will cost? Do they have the resources to compete with the rest of the world and to keep a balanced budget (not that anyone else can do it)? The cost of setting up a new country needs to trade on it's own resources. Can Quebec do this? Do they know the price they will pay? The rest of the world is heading to larger economic blocks not smaller ones. If this is what they want then so be it, but are they willing to pay the price? Janet Auckland, New Zealand * When I arrived at the Toronto International Airport I went to an uncle and aunt of mine to get some information about Canada. I found out that Vancouver and Vancouver Island and the Rockies are very nice. So I flew 5 days later to Vancouver. I spent a couple of days and then I travelled the Rockies and then to Calgary. Wherever I came to I found friendly and open people. When I arrived in Lake Louise I couldn't understand why man built such a huge hotel in such a nice place. I thought it's amazing. The Rockies are very nice, I loved them. The hostel system in the Rockies is good. I think it's very important to keep the wildlife nevertheless bears are dangerous. Stop the illegal hunters! It doesn't matter when elks go through a town, they belong to a country. Christian Stuttgart, Germany * Rich full colours and dynamic shapes. The poster painted a captivating picture of a romantic wilderness. That first flash of Canada, promised never ending outdoor experiences and sensory overload. At 26, it seemed the perfect place to rediscover dreams forgotten in years of doing the 'sensible' thing. After just three months out of a 12-month holiday, Canada has more than fulfilled my expectations! I have travelled many countries and have lived for long periods of time in the USA, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, Australia. The geographical picture of Canada - variety plus. Rich forest, high Rockie mountains, colourful lakes, sweeping prairies, vibrant colour, animals from Noah's Ark, blinding snow and fresh air. Northern lights - amazing. The Canadian people themselves - gross generalization here. Strong sense of national pride, without arrogance, and aggressiveness of the 'yanks'. Genuine interest in the international world. An active, outdoors orientation. Not from specific health consciousness though. There are a large number of smokers and heavy meat and fast food eaters. Interpersonal interactions indicate sexual equality is being practiced. Quebec separatism - Quebec will one day be an independent country. They have a very distinct culture of their own. The change will be difficult, financially, etc. However the lasting impression is not 'this is Canada'. Why struggle to maintain a heritage that has roots all of its own. Some commercialism is unavoidable with travel, technology, etc. Canada remains relatively 'eden-like' all things considered. More public interest and environmental attitude would prevent further environmental rape. Travel pros/cons - air travel is cheap as the bus service is questionable. The train service is down right disgusting, enormously overpriced. Drive away deals - excellent. I would agree, Canada is one of the best places to live. I would live here for years, if I knew I would eventually be back home - still Australia. It is the closest I've found to Australia lifestyle-wise. Friendly, easy going. Diversity. The romance of Canada will live in my soul forever! Natalie H. Moruya, New South Wales Australia * I arrived in Canada two months ago with the intention of only staying a couple of days then I was going to return to the US but as soon as I arrived in Hamilton, Ontario I was greeted by some very warm and hospitable Canadians. It was there my opinion of Canada changed and here I am on the other side of the country two months later. I came across Canada on a three day bus trip which I was dreading but the countryside along the way was beautiful. I then travelled through the Rockies to Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper which were in my eyes: spectacular! Because of the time of year I could only hike for 10 days but in those 10 days I saw some of the best wildlife and countryside I've ever see, and I've been travelling all over the world for the past several years. I used to think Scotland had the best mountains in the world to hike but I now have to say it is definitely the Canadian Rockies. I really love Canada and I definitely will be back. Sharon R Bondi, New South Wales Australia * Who is a true Canadian? I wish these people who call themselves French Canadian, Chinese Canadian, Indian Canadian, cut the crap. You’re either Canadian or not. There seems to be a real lack of general identity. The best Canadians I have met are definitely the Newfoundlanders. They have sharp wit. I can’t believe people still hunt wolves and bears and cougars in Canada. I think Canada would be a great country to live in but it is far too unstable politically, and expensive. When I think of Canada I think of a truly beautiful country turning far too multicultural. Canada seems to unfortunately follow the way of the US. You have the greatest wildlife and scenery, look after it! Long live the wolf! Luke Gold Coast Australia P.S. Don’t give the Stanley Cup to America too often. It’s a Canadian institution, baseball is America’s. * Prior to visiting Canada I picked up a couple of books and a video. Wow! What a country. I can’t get to see the whole place, it would take months/years for a budget traveller. Tell you what was hilarious, in a sick way, were all the photos of Niagara Falls: picturesque, awesome, natures unbridled forces, magnificent...surrounded by concrete/steel monstrosities - need I say more. Strategic photography! Bastards! Anonymous Author * Having spent a year here I have only positive things to say. The bilingual element (ridiculed by others in this book) is part of the wonderful multicultural melange that makes Canada; I only wish the immigration laws weren’t as impenetrable for Europeans. Anonymous Author * I have to say Canada people is great and beautiful. God bless Canada people all them. W.B. Lahore, Pakistan * Enjoyed staying here. This country is full of attitude. Don’t really understand why Canadians are so arrogant? Anonymous Author * I’ve been in Toronto for four weeks and one day! Canada is a great country but not the paradise I thought it was. Too many taxes, French and English on packages is confusing, there are not enough good pubs and too few people on the streets. This country needs a major immigration boost! The city has lost the buzz it used to have. There are more beggars on the streets than before and people in general have lost the will to have fun! Another little Canadian peeve is the way people say ‘a’ spelt ‘eh’ at the end of sentences, that gets on my nerves! Anyway I’ll stop slagging off Toronto. I still think it is a good clean city to visit but not to live as I thought at first. I’ve given this city my best shot but it’s just not worked out, so I guess I’ll move on. Kevin H. London, England * Melissa and Renate’s Canadian Experience We have been here for 10 months. We spent most of our time in Banff, which was unreal, amazing, the best! To complete the Canadian experience you must do the following: · See The Tragically Hip in concert · Drink Molson Dry · Try the Canadian pot and shrooms · See and spend most of your time in the Rockies. · Ski Lake Louise and the Rock Garden. · Mountain bike furiously in the Rockies. · Travel in a Dodge van across the country. · Subway (indulge in it daily) · Go to Le Commensal (for all those vego’s out there in Montreal and Quebec) · Party hard with Canadians · Speak the language (right on!) · Breathe, smell and feel an NHL game. · Expect to tip well! Most of all get the full Canadian experience. Mel and Ren Melbourne, Australia * After a month in Canada here’s what I loved most: · Wide spaces, such as in the Parc Province de la Gaspesie where there aren’t too many people gives one a sense of freedom. · National parks, because of the beauty of the wildlife (bears, moose, beavers, etc.) and nature (trees, lakes). · The accent of the Quebecois (my mother tongue is French, but their way of speaking is definitely different), as well as their great sense of human. · Canadian hospitality, including old cosy houses. · The fact that Quebec area people speak French (seems to me like it’s an island lost amongst English speaking sharks) and I like the way the Quebecois fight to keep their culture alive. · The fact that Canadians know a lot about Europe, compared to Americans who usually know nothing. · The efforts which are being made to protect the nature (eg. recycling). · Outdoor activities, such as canoeing, hiking. · Hockey games! What an atmosphere! · Canadian way of living (relaxed, open-minded, friendly) Chantal Switzerland * I’ve had a great time in Canada for nearly eight months. On my travels the locals have usually been polite and friendly. But what’s with this ‘have a nice day’ stuff? Sure, it’s a polite form of greeting, yet many of your shop assistants say it because they are asked to by their employer. To some ‘have a nice day’ becomes a symbol of Canadian insincerity. The mountains, lakes and general scenery are what I have liked most about Canada. Lake Moraine and the Valley of the Ten Peaks are brilliant. I found Victoria charming, Winnipeg pretty, and Toronto interesting. Vancouver is great by the waterfront yet it is struggling for an indentity. Quebec is next on my travels. As a visitor it is hard to understand why so many of the people in Quebec would want to separate from Canada. It appears that the rest of Canada has done quite a lot to accommodate them, particularly when it comes to bilingual programs in schools and funding by the federal government. I hope that Canadians can work things out. I’m sure most comment about Canada will be positive. Still, I hope its people will try to improve the country and not close its eyes to criticism. Perhaps a natural advantage it has compared to the USA is that its people know more about the world and can better appreciate different cultures. Canadians by the way, have been very critical of Americans. I can’t believe at times how anti-American some can be. Similar to young Australians, Canadians will watch trash TV, read tabloid magazines and wear New York baseball caps, then turn around and say they don’t like American culture (while eating a Big Mac). As a final note I hope Canada remains a peaceful, friendly place. I hope that crime can be reduced and that you will find a way to deal with poverty. All countries have problems. As a visitor it seems Canadians are willing to recognize them and to try to find a way to improve the country. But what does it mean to be Canadian? David Melbourne, Australia * Canada’s great! But still like anything there’s always exceptions. Montreal is great too, minus the people who are so sadly insecure and narrow as to make language synonymous to culture. I’d like to think that one’s roots grow deeper than just their language. Gosh! Even the real French people, find them crazy and insecure. It’s sad. Montreal is beautiful, forget the people. It is no wonder that my other Canadian friends in BC give them the finger on sight. I tried to defend them with ‘Oh not all of them are bad.’ Boy, was I wrong. I should say ‘Oh some of them are okay.’ Best place to visit in BC - Victoria. Martinez * Canada? Canada has quite a lot of contrasts, for example, the scenic vistas, the people of all different cultures, the politics and every body else’s views. My girlfriend and I travelled across Canada from Victoria to Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton, Banff and Jasper, Winnipeg and Regina, Toronto to Fredericton to Halifax and then back to Toronto. The people we’ve met from all walks of life are usually too stressed in the major cities and towns. They are non-caring and always seem to be in such a hurry to get somewhere. When you travel between these centres, out into the countryside, and you start to enjoy the scenery you can feel the tension in the air decrease the further you are away. The people of the countryside are so genuinely friendly and relaxed and are very helpful. The scenery is unique. However, whichever country you decide to visit, it would give you the same joy and feeling. For Canada, yours is breathtaking. The politics - well I really don’t follow it, however it’s not everyday that you get a province or state of your own country wanting to separate is it? Quebec should stay part of a united Canada. French is not the only culture to call Canada home. Maybe the Prime Minister should redraw the map, so the other Atlantic provinces stay geographically joined even if Quebec doesn’t. It is good to see that recyling is in full swing in Canada - to help cut pollution, they have so much to save - although the use of timers for heating should be drastically reduced. As for the best country to live in - you should ask the Canadians. If you asked aussies it would be Australia, the same for Britain, USA, Japan and anywhere else. Robert H. Sydney, Australia * Rod and Sumon had an absolutely fabulous time in Canada. Our impressions of Canada: good ethnic mix - no guns or mad Americans with guns. On our travels I’ve discovered that the attitude of those from the West is different to those in the East. People from Vancouver were nicer and friendlier and more willing to help than those from Toronto. On the whole we’ve enjoyed ourselves in the time that we’ve have been here. Sumon G., Berkshire, England Rod S., Hamilton, New Zealand * We’ve been travelling from Vancouver to Whitehorse, from Whitehorse to Banff and Jasper, from Banff and Jasper to Drumheller, from Drumheller to Vancouver Isand and from Vancouver Island across Canada to Toronto. This trip took us 3 1/2 months and we’re only halfway across Canada! When I think about Canada it’s not the city’s that I see but all the rest. It’s vast and empty. I see miles and miles of trees, miles and miles of prairie, a thousand lakes and the most beautiful mountains I have ever seen. I see the ruggedness of British Columbia and the Yukon. The soft pastel-coloured rolling landscape of the prairies and the friendly farmland from Ontario. And in all this beauty, the wildlife. A feature, very uncommon for an European. You have to develop a way of dealing with this new ‘threat’ in your life. What I see on the other hand are the vast clearcuts on Vancouver Island and other parts of BC. It’s amazing that environmentalists have to fight very hard to save the last small parches of old-growth forest. Showing parts of these forests to tourists would probably bring in more money! I see people hunting for bear, moose and elk. Everybody who likes to hunt says there are plenty. Everybody who tries to conservate says that the carnivores are on their way to extinction. People get big bucks for only the gallbladder and the claws of a grizzly. These people (the poachers, that is) should be punished very severely to stop this. On the other hand we should try to find ways to give those animals living room and to protect them better. I see people fishing the last spring salmon out of the ocean because there is plenty. Even when the first signs appear that there isn’t anymore they still go on using their fish as a never-ending resource, eating only the best part of the fish and throwing the rest away. On the one hand I can’t blame people for that. There has been a lot of resources for only a few people. But I think that every well-thinking human being knows that things are changing. Try to change the attitude with it. On the one hand it might cost money, but on the other it will bring in a lot of money for many, many years, because the beautiful nature with all the wildlife will attract people for many, many years. When I think about Canada I also see loads and loads of friendly people. People interested in what you do. They want to show you things and are willing to discuss things with you. Toronto is the first place where I don’t see this being very obvious. Also the first place where you can’t cross the street just like that. Here [Toronto] people won’t stop! In the rest of Canada (that we saw) people are very easygoing and very helpful and considerate of other people. I think Canadians are a bit hypocritical too and they tend to know what is best for their fellowmen (annoying sometimes). Native issue. A problem! I saw white people having a lot of respect for natives. These natives had a strong community bond and are making themselves a good living. I heard people despising natives because these native people tend to be drunk from dawn to dusk. Especially in the last case white people felt discriminated. They said natives pay no taxes, get free housing etc. And what do they do with it and what do we get? We work our butts off to make a living. So I don’t think you can talk about all the natives because there are a lot of differences. Give natives back their pride and they will have flourishing communities. Quebec thinks the rest of Canada looks down on them. In fact it’s the Quebec people that have a sense of minority problem. I did not hear one Canadian saying something bad about Quebec people. Anonymous Author * Well I could not have found more friendlier and courteous people - most put Aussies to shame. I have been in Canada two weeks so far and everywhere I have had an excellent time with super-friendly Canadians. Vancouver, Calgary, Banff and surrounds especially Canmore, loved Saskatoon and had a great time in Toronto. It’s just a pity Niagara Falls is surrounded by monstrosities. I’m travelling back to Banff before heading into US, driving to Florida via the Grand Canyon and Mexico. Fantastic so far. Thank you Canada. Mary Tasmania, Australia * I’ve been travelling around Canada for one month and leave in a few days time. All in all it’s been a good trip and Canada is a wonderful country with both natural beauty and a good quality of life. I spent a week travelling around the Rockies - spectacularly beautiful, loved Jasper. Banff and Lake Louise are beautiful but have become very ‘touristy’ and expensive. Spent hours on the Greyhound bus travelling through the prairies but this is where I met Canadians. Canadians come across as being quite reserved and shy initially but once you start talking they are friendly, interested and genuine. People are more friendly in small towns than cities but the same could be said for everywhere in the world. Canadians seem more conservative and less materialistic on the whole than their American neighbours and I hope the Ameican media does not change this too much. I was impressed by the high level of cleanliness and space in even the large cities, even though Canada has it’s homeless people on the street it is certainly not such a big problem as elsewhere in the world. I was in Toronto just before the referendum and was impressed on how hard Canadians were appealing to Quebec to remain part of Canada. I wonder why Quebecois do not appreciate how lucky they are to be part of such a wonderful country. The staff in tourist information centres and youth hostels could be a bit more friendly and helpful. I found it difficult to learn about native culture - the reservations are hidden from public view, the government seems to overcompensate for years of discrimination (e.g. Native Canadians do not have to pay tax). Canadians from different cultural backgrounds need to have more contact with each other to learn and appreciate similarities and diversities. I think this would help in a stronger sense of a Canadian identity instead of developing ideas of separation. Despite this I would agree that Canada is probably one of the best countries to live in and will certainly be back. Gillian F. Maseru, Lesotho * I have been in Canada just four days and all this time I have been in Toronto. I have found the Canadians very helpful on the streets and willing to answer all questions. I have found it very hard to get used to the extra tax that is added to everything e.g. $20 phone card = $23.50. I think the government needs to just add it and make it the whole price not the two separate prices. Impressions of Toronto - it’s made for the tourist - easy to get around, signs well posted, transport is easy to use, very clean, not very busy and the general public are great. I’m looking forward to discovering this country further. Things I’ve been told to see: -The Rockies -Quebec -Vancouver and the surrounding areas -Lake Louise Things I want to see: -Lethbridge, Alberta - in the snow -A white Christmas -A hockey game. Kerri C. Queensland, Australia * Before coming to Canada many people told me how much it resembled Australia, well to tell you the truth I don’t think the two countries are anything alike. I found Canada too slow, not enough activity, nowhere to party after one o’clock, lacks the warmth of Sydney, the sites of London, the pubs of Ireland, not as cosmopolitan as Amsterdam, too expensive for what it is. The beer should be cheaper so people could afford to go out and get drunk to forget this damned cold weather. The pluses (good things) people are very helpful and it’s clean (not enough to make me want to come back). Eddie Australia * I’ve been travelling around Canada for nearly two months now and will be here for another month. Within this time I have hardly met any Canadians. Maybe because I’ve been staying in hostels, I don’t know, but the ones that I have met have been very helpful and very generous. However, Canadians to me seem to be politically confused. Are you part of England, America or France? Quebec has been demanding independence now for over 30 years. This is going to go on until they get it. Why? You all speak French, yet France doesn’t want you. Independence isn’t such a great thing. Yet it’s so important to 49.4% of the population [of Quebec]. I’ve found it very difficult to get around. The bus system is pretty good. But who wants to sit on a bus for three days to get from Toronto to Calgary? There sure isn’t anything to see. The Rockies and Vancouver is a beautiful part of the world. I just don’t know why Canada won’t unite and live in harmony together. As with Americans I’ve found Canadians to be self-obsessed. It’s very difficult to talk to someone without them totally monopolizing the conversation. Everything has to be bigger and better than yours. I’m patriotic yes, but I like to learn about someone’s country before I start to compete with it. There are also far too many Australians here. Working visa’s are given away without research. Stop it! Overall I’ve enjoyed Canada but I probably won’t be back. There are so many other places in the world to see. Gail Melbourne, Australia * I spend three months travelling around Canada in that time I spent about 1 1/2 months staying with Canadian people. Canada has the most incredible nature. The BC and Rocky Mountains are just so amazing. Hiking in them was just the best and the wildlife is great. The Canadian cities are not much to write about (okay, except Vancouver and Quebec City). Canada would learn something from the US tourist board. They need to make more museums about Canada, we tourists would love to learn more about the country (I find the Native Indians very interesting), but have not been able to find any museum about the culture.) Also as soon as it comes to September most things shut! Canadian people are friendly, helpful, but as I said before people don’t seem to be very proud to be Canadian. You ask people where they are from and they will say Britain/German instead of Canadian. They also have this really political confusion. They need to sort it out. I like Canada a lot, it’s a great place. I have had some great experiences, seen some brilliant things, and met some cool people both Canadian and other countries. Pia Denmark * I’ve effectively lived in Vancouver, and I love that city, maybe because it feels very much like home. It also depends on the people you meet, and maybe we’ve been lucky, but the people we’ve met and stayed with have been great. I will want to return to see them again. Canada and Australia have a lot in common but Australia has a fairly homogenous culture and is surrounded by sea so we are bound together and can’t run away unless we put on backpacks and invade other countries’ youth hostels or New Zealand. Canada has two distinct cultures neither of which quite understand the other. There is a communication problem. There seems to be many people in Montreal who bridge the two cultures but it seems they don’t prevail in either. Canada also has 250 million Americans just across the border, uptight, anxious and repressed (yeah, I know, exaggeration and generalization). That must make Canadians nervous. But it seems that Canadians are a lot more easygoing, relaxed and open-minded on the whole than their southern neighbours - maybe, like Australia, you can afford to be when you live in a smaller country with no great external ambitions or responsibilities, I don’t know. It seems to me that the Quebecois do have a different culture and outlook, so it’s no surprise there are continued tensions there. No wonder federalism seems to work so badly here (does that also explain the incredibly slow postal system and amazingly expensive phone system?). I hope you can learn to stick together without the issue continually crippling your federal government - there are worse things that could happen if you don’t learn to share, you can’t learn about each others culture and background. In the West, the English speakers pay lip-service to bilingualism but most don’t care; in Quebec, we don’t even see English signs (though many people were happy to speak English so we had no difficulty there, otherwise the people were as friendly there as anywhere here). It takes two to tango: both cultures must learn about the other and take a genuine interest in the other if Canada is to survive - and it seems many in either side are not currently doing so. Maybe Quebecers don’t share the English speaking western world’s preoccupation with economic nationalism that is dismantling our communities and social systems. The European outlook seems more long term and some of the things Quebecers have said seem to reflect that (though the Bloc Quebecois did not). Very interesting. A great country to live in (like Australia), we’ll come again. David M. and Gen M. Northcote, Victoria Australia * More should be done to warn tourists about the dangers of bears. Anonymous Author * This land is magnificent - tatakaw - and people are kind, very kind. They smile and don’t hesitate to help you when you need it. The visitor feels easily at home in this cosy atmosphere. All the people of this huge country are very lucky to live here. Take care of the trees and rivers. Olga B. Molins de Pei, Spain Jordi S. Barcelona, Spain Pitus S. Barcelona, Spain Esther V. Barcelona, Spain * My first trip to Canada and my first impressions are what a great country! I haven’t come across one rude Canadian yet! Everywhere I’ve been there seems to be great beauty, be it the mountains, waterfalls or views. Half of my family have already emigrated here - can cer