Explore the Splendour and Splash of Ontario
Now is the ideal time to explore Canada! With the pandemic still imposing travel restrictions, many of us are opting to explore this amazing country we call home.
This is the fourth blog in our TierOne Travel ‘Explore Canada’ series, which provides a glimpse into some of the most incredible cities and regions to explore from coast to coast to coast. Our expert travel agents can put together an awesome itinerary to suit your interests, timelines and budgets. We also work with some of the best tour operators in Canada, so we can book the most amazing tour packages for you.
Read our past ‘Explore Canada’ blogs and other great articles by visiting our website here.
Why Vacation in Ontario?
Ontario is not only gorgeous, it is also Canada’s most populous province. More than 38 percent of Canada’s population lives there. Ontario, however, is not the largest province in the country. Quebec, Northwest Territories and Nunavut are bigger in terms of land mass.
Located in eastern Canada, Ontario lies between Hudson and James bays to the north and the St. Lawrence River–Great Lakes chain to the south. It is bordered to the east by the province of Quebec, to the south by the United States, and to the west by the province of Manitoba.
There are two major cities in the province: Ottawa is the nation’s capital and Toronto is the provincial capital. Both urban centres are worth exploring all on their own.
And if you should find yourself in Toronto, why not visit awe-inspiring of Niagara Falls to the south of the city or explore the Muskoka Lake District to the north.
Ottawa Has a Lot of Offer
While in Canada’s capital city of Ottawa, you can tour the iconic Parliament Hill, but only the outside right now. As a preventative measure in response to COVID-19, guided tours of the Senate of Canada Building and the House of Commons at West Block are temporarily suspended. TierOne Travel agents will be able to find out when they are offering inside tours again.
Depending on the time of year you visit, you can paddle, cruise or skate on the Rideau Canal, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And you will enjoy exploring the lively neighbourhoods along Ottawa River. Enjoy tasty craft beer, fresh local food and unique little shops.
Ottawa in the fall is not to be missed. Many have travelled there, just to walk through the magnificent autumn colours of the changing leaves, especially the glorious maple trees.
Discover the Diversity of Toronto
Toronto City proper boasts a whopping population of more than 2.7 million. It is the most populous city in Canada and the fourth largest in North America. The Greater Toronto Area (GTA), which takes in many surrounding communities, is over 6.5 million.
This vibrant city is a melting pot of cultures and is considered an international centre for business, finance, and the arts. With its diverse population, more than 50 percent of residents belong to a visible minority.
To really experience Toronto, you need to immerse yourself in its many cultures and revel in its diversity. You’ll love exploring its distinct neighbourhoods, green spaces, amazing waterfront, festivals (although many are postponed due to COVID-19) and eclectic arts scene and delectable foods.
You can stay in Toronto and take day trips outside the city to various tourist destinations, such as Niagara Falls or the Muskoka Lakes.
Discover the Power of Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is a top Ontario – and Canadian – attraction. People come from all over the world to explore its wonders. Famed for both its beauty and as a valuable source of hydroelectric power, it is an amazing sight to behold.
You can explore it by taking the famous ‘Voyage to the Falls’ boat tour, or even an incredible helicopter tour over the falls. And for the more adventurous, our travel specialists at TierOne Travel can book you an adrenaline-fueled, zip line ride. Special seats attached to the zip line will transport you 67 meters above the Niagara River Gorge to the base of the falls.
If you want to get up close and personal and really feel the raw power and peril of the Niagara Rivers, you can take the White Water Walk. This self-guided tour will take you over many platforms that put you right at the river’s edge.
‘Niagara Falls’ is both a city and the name of waterfalls on the Niagara River. The main waterfall, which is located on the Canadian side of the border, is called Horseshoe Falls due to its U-shape.
During peak daytime tourist hours, six million cubic feet of water goes over the crest of the falls every minute. Horseshoe Falls is the most powerful waterfall in North America, as measured by flow rate.
Explore the Beauty of the Muskoka Lakes
The Muskoka Lakes District, located 130 km (80 miles) north of Toronto, is Ontario’s major vacationing area. Since 1870, it has attracted millions of people to its beauty and splendour.
Known as Canada’s cottage country, Muskoka can’t be beat for a family getaway or a romantic vacation. In fact, it has been named the best vacation spot time and again by National Geographic and Reader’s Digest.
There are endless resorts, cottages, hotels, motels and inns that you can stay at. TierOne Travel can book you the perfect getaway package to meet your interests and budget.
For the ultimate scenic route in Muskoka, you will want to take the Lake of Bays scenic drive. It’s an 80-km loop that will lead you through the charming villages of Baysville, Dorset and Dwight. Discover delicious local bakeries and have a beverage at the Lake of Bays Brewery. You’ll want to make a day of it – or two – and don’t forget your camera. The drive is gorgeous any time of year, but is particularly breathtaking in the fall when the leaves change.
Get Peace of Mind with Travel Insurance
Before you travel, be sure you have enough coverage. Travel insurance will provide you with peace of mind on your vacation. Find out more about Manulife travel insurance here.
When you’re ready to explore Canada and make your travel dreams come true, contact one of our TierOne Travel agents today! They have extensive experience in life-changing travel and will be able to craft something incredible that is suited to your unique needs. One call; endless experiences!
“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.” – Anonymous
