The top 10 places to visit in Canada

If you’re planning to visit Canada and aren’t sure where to go, look no further than these 10 great places to go in the country. Each place will introduce you to Canadian history, culture and scenery, not to mention friendly people and delicious food! From one end of the country to the other, you’ll find things to do, people to meet and breathtaking scenery! Don’t forget your camera – you won’t want to miss a single memory of this great place called Canada!

1) Toronto

Toronto is a great city for shopping, eating out and discovering new cultures. It’s also a great place for tourists to explore Canada’s culture and history, as many of its biggest attractions are based around that theme. Start with Toronto City Hall and work your way down Yonge Street towards Nathan Phillips Square. When you get there, check out Ripley’s Aquarium or take an afternoon walk along Lake Ontario. You should also consider visiting Casa Loma; it was originally built in 1914 but has since been converted into a museum. And while you’re at it, be sure to check out all of Toronto's neighborhoods—it’s hard not to fall in love with one of them!

2) Montreal

One of Montreal's biggest claims to fame is that it has both an English and French side, with a Saint Lawrence River running right through. The city boasts great restaurants (after all, Montreal was named one of Gourmet magazine's Top Food Cities), terrific shopping and plenty of museums and cultural attractions, making it perfect for any tourist looking for a real look into Quebec culture. Perhaps best of all, you can do all that while taking advantage of cheap flights from Toronto. As part of your itinerary, be sure to check out Plateau Mont-Royal, Old Port and Notre-Dame de Montréal Basilica. As one blogger notes , Montreal has no shortage of unique things to see.

3) Quebec City

Quebec City may be one of most tourist-friendly destinations in all of Canada, welcoming over three million visitors each year. For tourists from other countries looking for an authentic Canadian experience, Quebec City is a must. The province itself is located along both sides of St. Lawrence River and extends into Eastern Ontario. As one of North America's oldest cities, Quebec City has plenty to offer in terms of cultural attractions and natural wonders. If you're planning a trip there soon, here are ten things you absolutely cannot miss

4) Vancouver

There is no place on Earth quite like Vancouver. Situated between magnificent nature and a massive city, it has become a hot spot for tourists from around the world. If you’re planning a trip to Vancouver, here are some things you should consider seeing during your stay: Stanley Park, Granville Island Market, English Bay Beach, Gastown Historic District and The Seawall. As one of North America's most beautiful cities, there's always something exciting going on in Vancouver. With its oceanfront views, mountainside location and welcoming citizens; it’s hard not to fall in love with Vancouver – especially if you are visiting for vacation or business travel!

5) Banff National Park

Banff National Park is one of three Canadian national parks that border Banff, Alberta. With an area of 7,650 km2 (2,922 sq mi), it is larger than Belgium and is about 40 times larger than Manhattan. Established as Banff National Park on April 1, 1885 and named after Banff, Scotland by Canadian Pacific Railway chairman William Van Horne on a trip across Canada promoting its expansion into Western Canada. The park has an elevation of 820 m (2,690 ft) above sea level. Its namesake town lies south of the park and shares its name; both were originally founded by Charles George Buffalo Banff.

6) Jasper National Park

Located north of Banff, Jasper is popular for its abundant wildlife and scenic mountains, lakes, and rivers. It’s also known for hosting some of Western Canada’s best skiing. For skiers and snowboarders, Marmot Basin provides a great introduction to alpine skiing. Along with that are a few terrain parks for those who prefer rails, jumps and pipes. The scenic Icefields Parkway has easy access from Highway 93N to Lake Louise, one of Jasper’s most popular vacation destinations. In winter, dogsledding and cross-country skiing are two great ways to enjoy nature while staying active outdoors.

7) Whistler Village

Whistler Village is located at an elevation of almost 2,000 feet and is surrounded by magnificent alpine peaks. A variety of activities can be enjoyed here, such as hiking, mountain biking, boating, skiing and snowboarding. The village also provides accommodations for skiers who wish to stay overnight. In 2010 Whistler/Blackcomb Resort became North America’s first climate-neutral ski resort. Activities: Hiking, Mountain Biking .

8) Victoria, British Columbia

The capital of British Columbia offers visitors a wide variety of things to do and see. The city is home to some gorgeous architecture as well as plenty of great food, natural scenery and outdoors adventures. Victoria has won several awards for its cleanliness and walkability, which make it a great choice for families with young children. If you’re hoping to travel on a budget, check out these discount hotels in Victoria .

9) Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa is not only a great place to spend your weekend, it's also one of those cities you’ll want to return to year after year. The architecture is stunning, there are tons of things to do and see, plus you can sample some of Canada’s best wines in nearby Ontario and Quebec. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags!

10) Newfoundland

Newfoundland is an island located off of North America’s east coast, just below Labrador and Quebec. Stretching across 4,400 km2 (1,700 square miles) of land and water at its largest point, Newfoundland is comparable in size to Ireland or New Zealand. Despite its larger physical size though, Newfoundland is a sparsely populated province with less than 500,000 people spread across 5 time zones; no small feat considering Newfoundland’s population density is only slightly higher than India’s. The capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador, St.

10 places in the United States you have to see before you die

If you’re looking for an American vacation with some history, culture, and big city thrills, look no further than these destinations in the United States that are sure to be on any travel bucket list. Whether you like luxurious city living or hiking in wildernesses, there’s something here to please you and your taste buds. From the bustling metropolis of New York City to the gorgeous beaches of Southern California, here are 10 places in the United States you have to see before you die.

1) LOS ANGELES

L.A. may be a world-class city, but it’s also got world-class vistas right outside your door. From L.A., head for Mount Wilson Observatory for amazing 360 views of Southern California (reservations are required). There’s also no better way to experience Venice Beach than from on a bike – rent one and get there by way of Ocean Front Walk, which is packed with street performers, drum circles and more than enough people-watching opportunities as well as an endless supply of beach access points (you’ll feel like a kid again). To catch some rays but not too many crowds, hit up Malibu Creek State Park and hike one of three trails – don't miss Liberty Canyon at dusk!

2) NEW YORK CITY

New York City is more than just a collection of skyscrapers and crowded streets. If you’re going to visit NYC, try visiting a local farmers market (there are multiple different locations) or take a bike ride through Central Park – it’s truly a sight for sore eyes. NYC has so much history, culture and character, there really is no reason for anyone not to fall in love with it at first sight. With delicious pizza slices and iced coffee waiting around every corner, how could anyone resist? It’s one of those cities that everyone should experience at least once, if not multiple times throughout their life. And if that doesn’t convince you to book your flight ticket as soon as possible... Broadway has got you covered!

3) DENVER

Denver is famous for its beautiful Rocky Mountains, but it also has a number of great museums and galleries that display local art. If you’re a fan of modern art, there are several galleries located downtown. If history interests you more, then make sure to check out The Denver Museum of Nature & Science or The Denver Art Museum. After viewing some amazing exhibits, head over to REI Outfitters for an afternoon hike up nearby Bear Creek Mountain or Mount Evans. Or if nature isn’t your thing yet mountain views definitely are, take a scenic drive across Monument Canyon bridge on I-70 Eastbound and enjoy views of Pikes Peak and Cheyenne Mountain as well as Colorado National Monument below you.

4) CHICAGO

Where else can you find deep dish pizza, a blues joint and public art on every block? It's all here, as well as an architectural legacy of Mies van der Rohe, Frank Lloyd Wright and Louis Sullivan. Here's some helpful hints: 1. Start at Millennium Park with its Jay Pritzker Pavilion, which hosts free concerts during warm months; 2. Stop by The Art Institute of Chicago, home of priceless Impressionist paintings and Renaissance sculpture; 3. Grab a dog-friendly lunch at Hot Doug's or Giordano's and stroll through Millenium Park; 4. Check out views of Lake Michigan from One Magnificent Mile.

5) SAN DIEGO

If you’re on a California mission, spend a few days unwinding on San Diego’s beaches. It’s as close as you can get to relaxing on a tropical island without having to board a plane. Be sure not to miss Sunset Cliffs Natural Park: The park is home to some of Southern California's best and most rugged coastal scenery. You'll also want to check out La Jolla Cove: Known for its excellent snorkeling, it's considered one of America's top five dive sites. To explore San Diego from above, head up Mount Soledad: At 2,200 feet high, it provides spectacular views of downtown San Diego and makes for one-of-a-kind photos.

6) SAN FRANCISCO

San Francisco is a city that has it all: great food, top-notch architecture, world-class shopping, and some of America's most famous landmarks. It's not just one of my favorite cities in America; it's also one of my favorite destinations anywhere. From Fisherman’s Wharf to Golden Gate Park, San Francisco is a place you could easily lose yourself for a week exploring new corners of your favorite neighborhood or discovering something brand new. The city is truly beautiful, from its rugged coastline to its historic bridges and old buildings. More than any other U.S. destination I’ve visited, San Francisco feels like Europe; there’s just no other place like it on these shores.

7) HOUSTON

Houston, which was established in 1836 and is one of America’s most diverse cities. The city’s Sixth Ward, with its thriving restaurant scene on Almeda Road and live music venues, is a delightfully chaotic mix of hipster bars and restaurants that offer authentic African cuisine. More than 20 percent of Houstonians are foreign-born, making it one of America’s most ethnically diverse cities. Houston has long been known as an oil town, but aerospace has played a larger role in its development than many know: NASA maintains space operations at Johnson Space Center just outside Houston.

8) CLEVELAND, OHIO

Experience life in America's heartland at its best by visiting Cleveland, Ohio. Relax and enjoy what Cleveland has to offer like a little stay in one of it's hip hotels. Walk around downtown and take in all of the architecture with its breathtaking views of Lake Erie. Enjoy world class shopping at high end stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Lord & Taylor while dining at celebrity restaurants like Morton's Steakhouse, Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, and Eddie Merlot's Chop House. The city even has historical landmarks such as Playhouse Square Center that was built back in 1912, which is home to eight stages that host theater performances from all over! If entertainment is your thing then you can't miss Madame Tussauds Wax Museum or famous Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame!

9) MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

You don’t need to be a Twin Cities resident or an ice fisherman on Lake Woebegon (yes, it’s real—but it doesn’t actually exist) to recognize that there’s more than one Minnesota nice. It’s enough just to wander through a typical day and find yourself surrounded by some of most brilliant art and music, delicious food, amazing people, profound education and rich history. Among those things are: The Mall of America®, The Walker Art Center®, The Minneapolis Institute of Arts®, Basilica of St. Mary and Assumption Church, Guthrie Theater®, Orpheum Theater® and Landmark Center®.

10) PHOENIX, ARIZONA

Cave Creek Regional Park is a hidden gem for hiking and picnics that borders Cave Creek, a pleasant waterway. The park has over 16 miles of hiking trails, many of which are shaded by native foliage. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of ruins from prehistoric Hohokam Indians or hike up Bill Williams Mountain, where some say they’ve seen UFOs. It’s also an ideal place to spot wildlife like coyotes, lizards and birds. There are picnic tables available for guests looking for a meal outdoors.

10 Can't-Miss Places to Visit in Dubai

Dubai has tons of things to see and do, so it can be hard to know where to start! As the best place to visit in the UAE, you're sure to find something here that will delight you and your loved ones, whether you're into shopping, architecture, or museums. Here are 10 places in Dubai that everyone needs to visit at least once!

1) Dubai Creek

You could easily spend a few days exploring Dubai Creek, as there is so much to see and do. Take a ride on a traditional dhow boat, explore a water village or head over to Deira for some shopping and dining. There are several historical sites worth seeing as well, including Al Fahidi Fort (the oldest building in Dubai), Bastakiya House (an 18th century house with traditional wind towers) and Al Shindagha Tunnel (which connects two parts of Deira). The Muscat Port at Mina Zayed port is also worth a visit—just beware of some aggressive salespeople when you get off your boat! Soak up these sights while enjoying great shopping, food and plenty of activities.

2) Hatta

With a population of approximately 2,500 people, Hatta is a small town that sits between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. What makes Hatta special is its location. Visitors can enjoy scenic views from atop surrounding cliffs or explore caves dug into mountain sides dating back thousands of years. The area also includes Bedouin settlements where residents still dress and live as they did hundreds of years ago. Hatta is accessible by car, but visitors who want to get out on foot should consider taking a desert safari tour before exploring on their own.

3) Burj Al Arab

The Burj Al Arab is a luxury hotel located on an artificial island off of Jumeirah beach in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The only seven star hotel in the world, its construction was completed on 1 January 1999 and opened on 1 January 2000. The hotel has what is considered to be one of world's most luxurious hotels: only 18% of all available rooms are suites while no room is priced under $1500/night. Due to extreme popularity, reservations at Burj Al Arab must be made up to three years in advance by invitation only. But there are many other options for accommodation across Dubai, especially at other luxury hotels such as Emirates Towers or Dusit Thani Hotel.

4) Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House

If you want a sneak peek into daily life for an Emirati family, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House is a great place to visit. Located along Shindagha waterfront and surrounded by water on three sides, it offers glimpses of old traditions while also showcasing modern architecture. Don’t miss out on taking some time to just sit back and enjoy life here—it’s peaceful and tranquil, with boats passing by every so often (the sheikh is known for his love of boats). You can spend hours just sitting here watching people walk by or meditating quietly in one of the gardens. Whether you live near or far away from Dubai, visiting Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House is an opportunity that shouldn’t be missed.

5) The Palm Jumeirah

If you’re looking for something serene and low key, consider a visit to The Palm Jumeirah. Located on an island connected by bridge to mainland Dubai, The Palm offers an urban oasis with two theme parks, six hotels, four residential areas, shopping centers and more. Whether you walk along its manmade beaches or take a one of its numerous bicycle tours through its botanical gardens, there’s plenty of sights and fun things to do at The Palm Jumeirah. You can also get out onto open water from here; just make sure you rent a boat from someplace reputable—the ocean can be a dangerous place for amateurs!

6) Historic Buildings and Villages

Take a tour of one of Dubai's historic buildings and villages, like Jumeirah Mosque, which dates back over 200 years. Or visit Al Fahidi Fort, a massive structure that overlooks Bur Dubai and is where Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum—Dubai’s ruler—is thought to have been born. It was originally built in 1787 as a lookout point for travelers from India; today it's a popular tourist attraction full of shops, restaurants and museums. If you'd like something more offbeat, try exploring Umm Hurair 1 near Jumeirah; it's comprised entirely of residential tower blocks dating back nearly 100 years.

7) Downtown Dubai

Downtown is a chaotic but exciting area of Dubai, filled with skyscrapers and hotels. It's also home to a number of attractions, including Souk Al Bahar (an indoor marketplace), The Heritage Village (which recreates life as it was lived in Dubai during various eras), The Dubai Mall (the world’s largest shopping mall) and Burj Khalifa, aka The Burj (the world’s tallest structure). There are plenty of cultural activities downtown as well; you can catch a performance at one of several theaters or visit Spice Souk for some food and souvenirs. Downtown is easily accessible via metro and tram; there's also an extensive bus service that connects downtown with other parts of town. Plan your trip here .

8) Heritage Village

Heritage Village, a replica of an ancient Arab city, features life-size replicas of famous buildings and landmarks. The complex is located in Al Warqa’a, about 20 minutes from downtown. It includes 17 detailed miniatures of well-known structures including: Burj Khalifa, Miracle Garden and Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Make sure to visit at night, when Heritage Village becomes a multi-colored spectacle that's bright enough to be seen from space!

9) Emirates Palace Hotel

Emirates Palace Hotel is one of the most beautiful hotels in Dubai. If you are looking for a unique experience, then it is necessary that you visit Emirates Palace Hotel. It has been voted as one of The Best Hotels In The World and it won many awards too. You will enjoy your stay at Emirates Palace Hotel since its interior decoration is breath-taking and exquisite. It was designed by Tom Wright, who has also designed other amazing hotels such as Burj Al Arab Hotel and Jumeirah Beach Hotel. With modern technology and comforts, its facilities are incomparable which is why people from all over can’t wait to spend some time inside it.

10) Mall of the Emirates

If you're looking for a quintessential Middle Eastern shopping experience, your first stop should be Mall of Emirates. The mall is so huge that it has its own indoor ski slope, ice skating rink and aquarium! It’s also got more than enough shops to keep even your finickiest retail pal satisfied. Best of all, there are outdoor attractions like an upscale theme park as well as a manmade beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming. You can get just about anything at Mall of Emirates, including food from all over Asia, making it one place you shouldn’t miss when visiting Dubai.