Canada – Coast to coast in a rental car
On the eastern coast of Canada the province of Nova Scotia provides a treasure trove for visitors. Both the military and maritime history of Canada is richly represented in the coastal villages. A car rental allows travellers to design their own tour of the 27 provincial museums, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 26 National Historic Sites, archaeological digs at Joggins Fossil Cliffs and the Grand Pre National Historic Site, sailing ships, etc. Yarmouth’s Firefighter’s Museum provides a one-of-a-kind collection of historic equipment and machinery used in harbor firefighting. Drive the rental car along the coast to Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Town, visit the schooner Bluenose. The replica: Bluenose II underwent a major renovation, reopening for sailing excursions summer 2011.
Travelling west to Quebec, Canada is a highlight of any road trip. Since its settlement in the 1600s, this province has maintained ties to France through language and culture. It is the largest province in Canada, so a rental car is a real advantage to holiday visitors. Quebec City and the area’s attractions make this scenic region both enchanting and unique. A rental provides easy access to The Citadel, a star-shaped, hilltop fortress dating back to 1820, is a relic of the British occupation. It is still home to the Royal 22e Régiment of Canada. The Quebec National Museum of Fine Arts houses a collection of paintings and sculpture by Québécois artists. A car rental lets guests see all the sights Quebec City offers: the restored Place-Royale (birthplace of French America), the Parliament Buildings, and Chateau Frontenac on the hillside over the old city with fantastic views of the St. Lawrence River. Visitors leave their rental car behind to ride the cable car, walk the paths, or (in winter) climb the icy waterfall at Parc de la Chute-Montmorency.
In Canada, Calgary exemplifies the Old West. For ten days every July the city showcases traditional western hospitality while hosting the adrenaline rush that comes from the world’s roughest, richest Rodeo: The Calgary Stampede. The Stampede includes barrel racing, bronc and bull riding, as well as one of Canada’s largest music festivals including five stages and over 300 performers. The culture of the Plains Indians returns in a historically accurate Indian Village. In 2012 Canada will produce a special celebration for the Stampede’s 100th Anniversary. A car rental will permit the visitor to attend any variety of events and area attractions they desire.
Travelling to Vancouver, Canada on the west coast in a rental car takes holiday visitors through some of the most beautiful scenic areas in Canada (including Banff National Park.) Banff displays the beauty, pristine mountain ranges, and unspoiled landscapes which make it the “World’s Finest National Park” and part of the rugged alpine landscape of Canada. On April 6, 2011 Vancouver celebrates 125 years’ through a free, fun-filled, family event honouring the city’s diversity. The Vancouver Heritage Foundation is accepting public nominations to identify 125 sites marking historic people, events, and places that have shaped the city. A car rental will provide the traveller access to all the venues and sites to be listed. Taking the ferry to Vancouver Island lets travellers experience the rich heritage of local native culture. Museums, contemporary festivals and local events offer pageantry of history, art and entertainment year-round. Use a rental car to plan a spectacular holiday around the extensive island attractions.
