Canada – The Land of the Maple Leaf
Oh, Canada! This is how the Canadian anthem begins, and it is no coincidence that these were my first words when I arrived in the country. This place combines the wild beauty of nature with the cultural wealth of its people. From the impressive colorful scene of Montreal to the picturesque streets of old Quebec, from the bustling metropolis of Toronto to the secluded and orderly Ottawa – Canada is a true paradise for travelers and adventure lovers. This country of contrasts offers a unique experience at every step, and the hospitality and openness of Canadians add additional charm.
In this article, I will tell you why Canada is not just another destination, but an inspiration that stays in the heart forever.
Table of Contents
Brief information about Canada:
Canada – the second largest country in the world, is an amazing place that combines majestic nature, cosmopolitan cities and a variety of cultures. Here you will find everything – from the stunning Niagara Falls to the charm of historic Quebec and the dynamic spirit of Toronto. Canada is known for the hospitality of its people, its rich bilingual culture (English and French), and its vast spaces, where wildlife and modern life meet in perfect balance. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures or cultural events, Canada promises unforgettable experiences.
Canada is also known for having the longest coastline in the world – over 202,000 kilometers of beaches, stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific coast, and even into the Arctic! It is also home to over two million lakes, with 9% of the world’s freshwater supply located here. Art and history lovers will also be impressed – the country has over 2,500 museums, including unique sites such as the Museum of Civilization in Ottawa and the Museum of Modern Art in Montreal.
Canadian cuisine is incredibly diverse – don’t miss out on trying local specialties like naturally sweet maple syrup or the famous “Canadian poutine” (fries with melted cheese and gravy).
Why should you visit Canada?
Being the second largest country in the world, Canada definitely has many reasons to make you want to visit it. Here are a few reasons why Canada should be your next destination:
- Amazing nature and landscapes – Canada is known for its spectacular mountains, crystal lakes, dense forests and impressive waterfalls, which are ideal for hiking, camping and photography.
- Cosmopolitan cities – Cities like Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal offer a vibrant cultural scene, modern architecture, world-class cuisine and countless events that attract millions of tourists every year.
- Hospitality and multicultural atmosphere – Canadians are renowned for their friendliness and tolerance. Canada is home to people from all over the world, which creates a unique and diverse cultural atmosphere.
- French-Canadian culture – The province of Quebec, with cities like Montreal and Quebec City, offers a unique blend of European charm and North American spirit. The streets of Old Quebec will make you feel like you are in France.
- Clean air and tranquility – Canada has vast areas of untouched nature that offer peace and quiet, away from the hustle and bustle of big cities.
Tips for your preparation for Canada
Traveling to a distant destination always requires a little more serious preparation, so I share with you a few tips to get your adventure in Canada off to a good start.
- Prepare for different weather conditions: Canada is a huge country with a diverse climate. If you are traveling in the winter, especially in the north or in the mountainous regions, be prepared for harsh cold. Summers in Canada are pleasant, but it can be humid on the coast and warm inland. Check the weather forecast and plan your clothing according to regions and seasons.
- Get travel insurance: Medical costs in Canada can be high, so travel insurance is highly recommended, especially if you plan to ski, snowboard or do other extreme sports.
- Prepare for a bilingual environment: Canada is officially a bilingual country (English and French), especially in the province of Quebec. A few basic phrases in French will come in handy when communicating with locals.
- Install transportation apps: Cities in Canada have a well-developed transportation network. Navigation and transportation apps like Google Maps or local public transportation apps (such as Rocket Man for Toronto) will help you get around more easily.
- Learn to tip: It is customary to tip in Canada – in restaurants, cafes, and for taxi services. The standard is higher than in Europe, around 15–20% of the bill, so be prepared for this, because they insist on it.
- Bring an electrical outlet adapter: In Canada, electrical outlets of type A and B are used, and the voltage is 120 volts. Check if you need an adapter to charge your electronic devices.
- Prepare for strict safety and environmental regulations: Canada has strict environmental laws. Respect nature and follow the rules, especially when camping or hiking in protected areas.
My itinerary in Canada
My entire trip was 10 days in total, 2 of which I spent on planes on the Sofia – Frankfurt – Montreal and Toronto – Frankfurt – Sofia routes. This way, I spent 8 full days in Canada, and I can say that if I had the chance, I would have added another week to visit the central and western parts of the country. But this is just an excuse to go back one day!
In the following lines, I will share the cities I visited, as well as highlight the highlights of each of them from my adventure in Canada.
Are you ready to embark on an 8-day adventure and tour the east coast of Canada together, as well as enjoy the majestic Niagara Falls?
Elegant Montreal
The city where European elegance meets North American dynamism. Situated on an island in the mighty St. Lawrence River (it consists of over 300 islands, including Île Sainte-Hélène and Île Notre-Dame), this unique metropolis combines historic neighborhoods with modern skyscrapers, fragrant bakeries with exquisite cuisine from around the world, and quiet parks with a vibrant nightlife. The city captivates visitors with its Parisian-inspired architecture of the old town, as well as its famous festivals that bring together artistic souls from all over the world. Montreal is not just a city – it is a cultural treasure trove that never ceases to surprise with its multifaceted identity and atmosphere, ready to win the heart of anyone who steps foot on its streets.
Interesting facts about the city:
– Montreal is the second largest French-speaking city in the world after Paris. However, a large number of residents also speak English, making it a convenient place for international visitors.
– Montreal is known as the “Underground City” because it has a vast underground network of shops, restaurants, offices and transport links, known as Réso. This system is especially convenient during harsh winters.
– Montreal hosts over 100 festivals a year, including the world-famous Jazz Festival, the Just for Laughs comedy festival and the Montréal en Lumière festival of lights.
– Montreal is known as the hockey capital – the Montreal Canadiens are the most successful team in the history of the National Hockey League (NHL), having won 24 Stanley Cups.
– Montreal has been named a UNESCO City of Design, thanks to its innovative projects, creative spaces and artistic initiatives.
Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal)
Walk the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal – the oldest part of the city has preserved the charm of French colonial architecture dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, in addition to beautiful historic buildings, you will find cozy cafes and galleries here. Don’t miss Place Jacques-Cartier and the impressive Old Port.
Fun fact: according to legend, Old Montreal is haunted, and many tour companies offer “ghost tours” in the evening, telling scary stories from the city’s past.
Notre-Dame Basilica
One of the most beautiful churches on the continent, with incredible Gothic architecture, impressive stained glass windows and a richly decorated interior. It also offers an impressive AURA light show, for which I was unable to find a ticket.
Fun fact: This is where Celine Dion got married on December 17, 1994.
Mount Royal Park
This is the symbol of the city – this park offers wonderful views of Montreal from the top of Mount Royal. The place is popular for walks, picnics and winter sports. The two most famous panoramic platforms are Kondiaronk Belvedere and Camilien-Houde belvedere with stunning views of the city.
Fun fact: The city’s name comes from Mount Royal, the triple hill in the city center, discovered by French explorer Jacques Cartier in 1535.
Montreal Botanical Garden
Here you will find over 20 themed gardens, including the Chinese and Japanese gardens, which offer incredible beauty and tranquility.
Interesting facts:
– The Montreal Botanical Garden is one of the largest and most impressive in the world, covering 75 hectares with over 22,000 species of plants and flowers.
– The Chinese Garden is the largest of its kind outside of China. Every fall, the Chinese Garden is decorated with hundreds of handmade Chinese lanterns, turning the evenings into a magical spectacle.
– Part of the Botanical Garden complex is the Insectarium – a place where you can see over 250,000 insects from all over the world, including live butterflies and exotic species.
Olympic Stadium & Biodome
Built for the 1976 Olympic Games, the stadium is an architectural icon. And in 1992 it was transformed into the Biodome, a unique museum that recreates five different ecosystems of the continent under one roof: the tropical forest, the Laurentian forest, the Atlantic coast, the Subantarctic Islands and the St. Lawrence Marine.
Fun fact: Montreal hosted the Summer Olympics in 1976, leaving behind landmarks such as the Olympic Stadium and the Olympic Tower – the tallest leaning tower in the world.
Rue Saint-Denis
One of the most picturesque streets in Montreal, full of shops, cafes and restaurants where you can feel the spirit of the local culture.
Quebec City, the European Heir
This is the heart of French culture in North America and the only fortified city on the continent north of Mexico. Perched on a picturesque hill overlooking the St. Lawrence River, Quebec City’s old town looks like something out of a fairy tale – with its cobblestone streets, old stone houses and the majestic towers of the castle-like Château Frontenac hotel. But Quebec City is more than just a romantic throwback – it’s a city of innovation and creativity, known for its bustling streets, fine cuisine and dynamic art. Quebec City is a place where history comes alive at every turn, and modernity harmoniously complements tradition.
Interesting facts about the city:
– Quebec City is the cradle of French culture in Canada, founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, and is one of the oldest European settlements in North America.
– The word “Quebec” comes from the Algonquian language and means “where the river narrows” – a reference to the narrowing of the St. Lawrence River near the city.
– This fact refers to the province, not the city itself, but Quebec is the world leader in maple syrup production – over 70% of the world’s supply comes from this province.
Old Town (Vieux-Québec)
The historic center of Quebec was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 for its exceptional importance as a historical site. Wander the cobblestone streets and enjoy the unique atmosphere of European architecture.
Place Royale
Considered the birthplace of French Canada, this square is surrounded by historic buildings, such as the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church, one of the oldest in North America.
Interesting facts:
– The Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church, located in the center of the square, was built in 1688 and is one of the oldest stone churches in North America. Its interior has been restored to show the colonial style of the 17th century.
– The square is named after Louis XIV, the King of France, whose bust still sits there today. This is a sign of the monarchy’s influence in the French colony.
– In the 20th century, the square was completely restored to its authentic colonial-era appearance. Today, it is a living open-air museum where visitors can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of centuries ago.
Château Frontenac
Built in 1893 Part of the Canadian Pacific Railway’s luxury hotel chain, Château Frontenac impresses with its neo-Gothic style and towers that resemble a medieval castle. It’s no coincidence that this iconic hotel is one of the most photographed buildings in the world. Even if you don’t stay there, you can stroll through the interior or enjoy the view of the St. Lawrence River from the nearby Dufferin Terrace.
Fun facts:
– The hotel is named after Louis de Buade, Count of Frontenac, governor of New France in the 17th century and famous for defending Quebec from British attacks.
– During World War II, the hotel hosted the Quebec Conferences, where Winston Churchill, Franklin D. Roosevelt and other leaders planned strategy for the Normandy invasion.
The Citadel of Quebec (La Citadelle)
This 17th-century star-shaped fortress is an active military base and parade ground. It offers incredible views and tours that tell the story of the city and its defense.
Montmorency Falls
This majestic waterfall is 30 meters higher than Niagara and offers opportunities for hiking, cable car rides and beautiful panoramic views.
Parliament and Fontaine de Tourny
The Parliament building is home to the National Assembly of Quebec and is an important symbol of the province’s autonomy. Built in 1886, the building is an example of neoclassical architecture and is recognized as a historical monument, and the nearby fountain was installed in 2007, celebrating the city’s 400th anniversary.
Île d’Orléans
Located near Quebec City, this island is known for its farms, local delicacies and wine tours, it is not for nothing that it is called the “Garden of Quebec”.
Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Basilica
Just 30 minutes from Quebec City, this magnificent church is a popular destination for pilgrims and architecture lovers alike. The basilica was founded in 1658, making it one of the first Catholic churches in North America. It was originally a small wooden church built by local settlers. The basilica is known for its long-standing reputation as a place of healing. Prayers to Saint Anne—the mother of the Virgin Mary and patron saint of Quebec—are said to have led to numerous miracles. The church is filled with offerings from grateful pilgrims, including crutches and walking sticks left behind by healed visitors.
Additional Quebec City Detour – Wendake
This is a unique Native American reservation located on the outskirts of Quebec City. It is home to the Huron-Wendat people, whose history and culture have played a significant role in shaping the region. “Wendat” means “land of the Hurons” in the Wendat language.
Orderly and cultural Ottawa
Canada’s capital is a city that surprises with its combination of formal elegance and warm hospitality. Located on the banks of the Ottawa River, this impressive capital is home to the magnificent Parliament Hill with its neo-Gothic buildings and breathtaking views of the city. But Ottawa is not only a political center, but a rich cultural scene that allows every visitor to explore and learn more about the country through the National Gallery of Canada or the Museum of Civilization and to enjoy the tranquility of the Rideau Canal – the longest ice rink in the world in winter. The city manages to attract both history buffs and adventurers looking for something new and intriguing.
Interesting facts about the city:
– Before Ottawa became the capital of Canada in 1857, temporary capitals were Montreal, Quebec, Toronto and Kingston. Queen Victoria chose Ottawa because of its strategic location – on the border between the English-speaking and French-speaking regions, as well as its security in the event of a military attack.
– The Ottawa River separates the city from the province of Quebec, with the city of Gatineau located just across the river. The bridges between them symbolize the cultural connection of the country.
– Ottawa is one of the coldest capitals in the world. Temperatures in winter often drop below -20°C, making it a paradise for winter sports.
Parliament Hill
The Parliament Buildings are famous for their Gothic architecture, and have become a symbol of Canadian democracy. The Parliament was built after Ottawa was chosen as the capital of Canada by Queen Victoria in 1857. The site is strategically located on a high cliff above the Ottawa River, which provides both security and magnificent views.
Interesting facts:
– The Parliament buildings are designed in a neo-Gothic style, which is inspired by medieval European cathedrals. The detailed stonework, towers and stained glass create an impressive architectural ensemble.
– The library here is one of the most beautiful parts of Parliament. Its octagonal shape, wood carvings and domed ceilings are impressive. It is home to over 600,000 volumes and is beautifully complemented by a statue of Queen Victoria.
– The Peace Tower was built in memory of Canadians who died during the First World War. At a height of 92 meters, the tower offers panoramic views of the city from its observatory.
– The flag that flies over the Peace Tower changes every day. Old flags are given to Canadians through a special program, but the waiting list is so long that you may have to wait over 100 years to receive one.
Rideau Canal
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the canal is a great place to stroll or boat in the summer. In the winter, it becomes the world’s longest ice rink – 7.8 km of pure winter fun.
Fun facts:
– Built in 1832, the canal was originally created for military purposes – as an alternative route between Montreal and Kingston in the event of a conflict with the United States. Today, it remains the oldest canal in North America still in use.
– The canal’s name comes from the French word “rideau”, meaning “curtain”. It was inspired by the effect of the Rideau Falls, which resemble a curtain of water.
– The canal stretches 202 km from Ottawa to Kingston, and includes a system of 45 locks built with 19th-century technology. Most of the locks are still manually operated using the original equipment.
National Gallery of Canada
Home to some of the finest works of Canadian and international art, the gallery also impresses with its modernist architecture. Don’t miss the “Maman” sculpture, a giant spider in front of the entrance.
Interesting facts:
– The gallery building was designed by renowned Canadian architect Moshe Safdie. Built in 1988, it impresses with its glass facade and unique design that combines light, space and natural materials.
– One of the gallery’s most recognizable attractions is the “Maman” sculpture, a 10-meter bronze spider created by Louise Bourgeois. This impressive work symbolizes strength, protection and motherhood.
– In addition to Canadian works, the gallery houses art by world-famous artists such as Rembrandt, Monet, Picasso and Van Gogh. The collections span the period from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Canadian Museum of History
Located in Gatineau, just across the river, this museum presents the history of Canada through rich exhibits and impressive totem poles. One of the main focuses of the museum is the history and culture of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people. The collections and exhibits highlight their contributions to Canadian history. The site also has an impressive panoramic view of Parliament.
Fun Facts:
– The Canadian Museum of History was founded in 1856, making it the oldest museum in the country. It is dedicated to preserving and telling the story of Canada through exhibitions, artifacts and interactive displays.
– The museum building was designed by architect Douglas Cardinal, who is a First Nations man of Canada. Its undulating design is inspired by the Canadian landscape, and its shapes are reminiscent of riverbanks and mountain peaks.
– The museum’s Great Hall houses impressive First Nations totem poles, some of which are over 1,000 years old. It is one of the largest such collections in the world.
Canadian War Museum
This museum showcases Canada’s rich military history with exhibits ranging from ancient weapons to modern technology. The architecture of the building is also impressive and symbolic, with the main focus of the place being on the lessons we can learn from war and on the efforts to build a sustainable peace.
Interesting facts:
– The building was designed by architect Raymond Morant and was inspired by themes of war and peace. The roof is covered with green areas, symbolizing the recovery of nature after war. Its windows face Parliament Hill, emphasizing the connection between military history and democracy.
– One of the most touching places in the museum is the Hall of Remembrance. Every year on November 11 (Armistice Day), sunlight passes through a small window and illuminates the tombstone of the Unknown Canadian Soldier.
– Special exhibitions are dedicated to Canada’s role in both world wars. They include personal belongings, letters, uniforms and weapons, revealing the emotional side of military conflicts. One of the most impressive items in this collection is Adolf Hitler’s personal Mercedes.
Cosmopolitan and multicultural Toronto
The cosmopolitan center of Canada, where world cultures meet and create a truly unique experience. The city captivates with its diversity – from the futuristic silhouette of the CN Tower, to the tranquility of the Toronto Islands, where you can enjoy nature with an incredible view of the horizon. In Toronto, each neighborhood is like a mini world – Chinatown, Little Italy, Greek Quarter and many more cultural centers create a feeling of a journey across continents. The city is not only a financial and economic powerhouse, but also a creative hub with a rich artistic life and a culinary scene that will surprise you. Toronto is a city of dreamers and innovators – everyone can find something that inspires them. And here are my favorite places in the city.
Interesting facts about the city:
– Toronto is home to over 200 different ethnic groups, which makes it not only the most numerous, but also the most cosmopolitan city in Canada.
– Toronto is home to many ethnic neighborhoods such as Chinatown, Greektown, Little Italy, Little India and many more. Each neighborhood offers a unique flavor of culture, cuisine and lifestyle that represents the diversity of the city.
– Toronto has over 200 skyscrapers, making it one of the tallest and most modern cities in Canada. Part of its distinctive look is due to its architecture and the continuous construction of new and innovative buildings.
CN Tower
The CN Tower is one of Toronto’s most iconic landmarks and one of the tallest buildings in the world. At 553 meters tall, the tower offers panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario.
Fun facts:
– The CN Tower was named after the Canadian National Railway, which built it as a communications tower, but it quickly became an emblem of Canada.
– At 342 meters high, you can step onto a glass floor that offers a direct view of the ground below you. It is designed to withstand the weight of 35 moose!
– Adrenaline seekers can try the EdgeWalk, a 356-meter-high walk along the outer edge of the tower, with safety ropes and an instructor.
– The tower is designed to withstand winds of up to 420 km/h and earthquakes of up to magnitude 8.5.
– The CN Tower is struck by lightning about 75 times a year. The tower is equipped with a special protection system that safely transfers electricity to the ground.
Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
The AGO is one of the largest art museums in North America and offers an impressive collection of Canadian and international art. The museum also features modern architecture by Frank Gehry, who worked on the building’s redesign. This places it among the largest art museums in North America, with an area of over 45,000 square meters and more than 95,000 works in its collection.
Fun fact:
– The museum is home to the largest collection of works by the Group of Seven, an iconic Canadian art movement known for its landscape paintings.
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
The ROM is one of the world’s leading museums for natural history and science. With collections ranging from dinosaurs to ancient artifacts and contemporary art, this museum is a must-see for history and science lovers.
Fun fact:
– The ROM is the largest museum of world culture and natural history in Canada and one of the most prestigious museums in North America.
– The museum houses over 13 million artifacts spanning natural history, archaeology, art and cultures from around the world.
Chinatown
Toronto has one of the largest and most diverse Chinatowns in North America. Chinatown is a great place to browse the markets, eat authentic Chinese food and shop for traditional products.
Fun Facts:
– The neighborhood originated in the late 19th century when Chinese immigrants began to settle in the area. It was originally located in another part of the city, but was moved to its current location in the 1950s.
– Although it is called “Chinatown,” this area is home to cultures from various Asian countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, and Korea, which contribute to its diversity.
Yonge Street Pedestrian Street
Yonge Street is one of Toronto’s most famous shopping streets, with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. It is also an important cultural and business district of the city.
Fun Facts:
– Young Street was long known as the “longest street in the world” at 1.896 km long, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. Technically, it connects to a highway, but this connection is disputed and is no longer officially recognized. The actual length of the street within the city limits is about 56 km.
– The street is named after Sir George Young, a British Secretary of War in the 18th century. It was originally designed as a military and trade link that connected Lake Ontario to the interior of the province.
– Young Street is home to the Eaton Centre, one of Canada’s largest shopping malls, which attracts millions of visitors each year with its over 200 stores and iconic flying geese sculpture.
Fun Facts:
– Young Street was long known as the “longest street in the world” at 1.896 km long, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. Technically, it connects to a highway, but this connection is disputed and is no longer officially recognized. The actual length of the street within the city limits is about 56 km.</i
– The street is named after Sir George Young, a British Secretary of War in the 18th century. It was originally designed as a military and trade link that connected Lake Ontario to the interior of the province.
– Young Street is home to the Eaton Centre, one of Canada’s largest shopping malls, which attracts millions of visitors each year with its over 200 stores and iconic flying geese sculpture.
Toronto City Hall
This building is one of the most recognizable and architecturally impressive buildings in the Canadian metropolis. It not only serves as the administrative center for the city government, but also symbolizes the modern look of Toronto.
Interesting facts:
– The Toronto City Hall, completed in 1965, is known for its unique architectural design. It has a distinctive modernist style, featuring two semicircular towers that seem to “embrace each other”. This is one of the first examples of modernist architecture in Toronto’s cityscape.
– In the background of the City Hall is Jarvis Park, known for its large fountain and the inscription “I Love Toronto”, which is often used for photos by tourists and locals. In winter, the square is often a place for ice skating.
The majestic Niagara Falls
This is one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world and a place that captivates the senses and ignites the imagination. Located on the border between Canada and the United States, this majestic waterfall consists of three main parts, the most impressive of which, the Horseshoe, is located on the Canadian side and drops its waters with incomparable power and beauty. The roar of the falling water, the light mist that rises above the river, and the rainbows that appear in the spray at sunrise and sunset, create a feeling of magic. I also had the opportunity to have a close encounter with a cruise ship that passes under its very edge. Whether you are looking for adventure or romance, Niagara Falls is a destination that will leave you speechless and will preserve memories filled with grandeur and exoticism.
Interesting facts:
– The name “Niagara Falls” comes from the Onondaga Indian tribe and the language of the Iroquois, who were the first inhabitants of the region. The name may have come from the term “Onguiaahra” or “Ongiara”, meaning “place where water divides” or “great flow”. This name is in keeping with the powerful and dynamic nature of the waterfall, which divides and falls in huge volumes of water.
– Niagara Falls is over 12,000 years old. It was formed after the last ice age, when glaciers retreated and left behind huge volumes of water that created the waterfall.
– Niagara Falls is actually made up of three separate falls: the American Falls, Horn Falls and the largest and most famous of them – the Canadian Falls, also known as the “Horseshoe Falls” because of its characteristic shape.
– Visitors can get up close to the falls thanks to popular tourist attractions such as the Journey Behind the Falls and the Maid of the Mist, boats that sail near the base of the falls, offering unforgettable views and a sense of the majesty of nature.
– Niagara Falls is not only a natural landmark, but also located on the border between the United States and Canada, which makes it unique on a global scale. The falls are located right on the line that separates these two countries, and are an object of both Canadian and American national interest.
Additional stop Niagara on the Lake
Niagara on the Lake is a small but charming town that looks like it was taken from a picture. With its Victorian streets, picturesque waterfront and cozy shops, it combines historical charm with natural beauty. Located just a short distance from the majestic Niagara Falls, this town is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in a peaceful atmosphere while enjoying wine from the local wineries.
Canada is a country of contrasts and endless possibilities – from majestic mountains and ancient forests to modern cities full of life and culture. This country captivates not only with its nature and cities, but also with the warmth of its people, who will welcome you with openness and respect for every culture. Canada is not just a destination – it is an adventure, an inspiration and an invitation for everyone to discover something new – and to fall in love with this vast land forever.