Calgary:
Calgary is one of the main gateways to the Rocky Mountains and home to the worldfamous Stampede held every summer in July. In 1988, it was the host for the Winter Olympics and the nearby mountains prove why this was the perfect location. Still, the city itself has a great vibe and is one of the fastest growing cities in the country.

Edmonton:
Edmonton is the second biggest city and the capital of the province of Alberta. A lovely city in summer, it becomes one of the coldest cities in the world during winter when temperatures can drop below -40 °C. It's also home to one of the biggest shopping malls in the world.

Halifax:
Halifax is Nova Scotia's economical and cultural centre piece and of importance to the current diversity regarding cultures and immigrants. Those same immigrants arrived by ship from overseas, mainly from many European countries and there is a museum dedicated to this, which is an absolute must-visit to understand more of these long journeys and the reasons behind it.

Montreal:
Montreal is the largest city in Quebec, and incorporates a vibrant mix of French, English and immigrant cultures. Montreal is the party capital of Canada, and has the most fashionable and hip population. It also offers amazing historical and cultural sites, and the famous Montreal Smoked Meat sandwiches.

Ottawa:
Ottawa is the capital of Canada, and provides the traveller a glimpse at the inner workings of Canadian politics. It's a lot smaller than many of the other main cities, but has a charm of its own.

Quebec City:
Quebec City is the capital of the province of Quebec. Founded in 1608, Quebec City is the only fortified city in North America and proud defender of the Francophone culture and language in Canada. Quebec City will celebrate its 400 years in 2008.

St. John's:
St. John's, the capital of Newfoundland, is a total world apart from the bigger cities you'll find to the west. It's one of the oldest cities in North America, with some beautiful Victorian architecture and a small but vibrant city centre with some great foreign restaurants and shops.

Toronto:
Toronto is the largest city in Canada, providing big city thrills and access to amazing natural wonders nearby. It is slowly trying to live down Peter Ustinov's backhanded compliment that Toronto is like "New York run by the Swiss."

Vancouver:
Vancouver is Canada's west coast gem, a glimmering city of shiny skyscrapers with amazing backdrops of the Rocky Mountains and Pacific Ocean. A laid back, liberal lifestyle mixed with an outdoorsy attitude makes this a favourite for skiers, boarders, kayakers and mountain bikers. Vancouver is the host for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, starting on February 12.