Canada Like a Local Road Scholar’s 2020 Campus of the Year h, Canada. From North America’s only fortified city to Welcome to Canada! the towering Canadian Rockies — there’s more to this country than meets the eye. That’s why we asked our Road Scholar’s 2020 O world-class experts what they love about their homeland so Campus of the Year you can explore the best of its province and territories like a local. Inside this handbook, learn what makes each province and territory unique — from Victorian architecture and English gardens to diverse culture and breathtaking national parks. Whether you’ve never been to Canada or are a seasoned traveler, you’re sure to learn something YUKON new while journeying to every corner of this TERRITORY beautiful country. Whitehorse NORTHWEST TERRITORIES To begin your Canadian learning adventure, NUNAVUT Iqaluit Yellowknife visit www.roadscholar.org/canada20
BRITISH COLUMBIA ALBERTA
NEWFOUNDLAND Edmonton SASKAT- MANITOBA CHEWAN QUÉBEC St. John’s Vancouver Calgary Victoria Regina PRINCE EDWARD Our Mission Winnipeg ONTARIO ISLAND Charlottetown At not-for-profit Road Scholar, our mission NEW BRUNSWICK is to inspire adults to learn, discover and travel. Our learning Québec City NOVA SCOTIA adventures engage expert instructors, provide extraordinary access, Halifax and stimulate discourse and friendship among people for whom learning Montréal Federicton is the journey of a lifetime. Ottawa
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Take a deep breath of that crisp, clean air and explore the pristine landscapes of Alberta. Home to two of the world’s oldest national parks — Jasper and Banff — this province is perfect for exploring untamed yet surprisingly accessible meadows, jade lakes, hiking trails and glittering glaciers. Venture a bit more to the center of Alberta and discover the open prairies and wheat fields that ranchers call home, or explore the landscapes of the First Nations people, of which Alberta has the third largest population in Canada. If the great outdoors is not your learning style, the cities have you covered with the trendy neighborhoods of Calgary or the artistic culture of Edmonton. However, nothing makes this province shine quite as bright as that golden glow of the sun on its mountain peaks and towering hoodoos, washing over the wild land.
Regional Adventures: Road Scholar Recommends:
Hiking — Incredible peaks meet Banff National Park— Canada's gorgeous glacial lakes as you tra- first national park seems to have it verse the unique and varied terrain all with diverse wildlife, sparkling of Alberta. From Banff to Jasper, lakes and sweeping views of the there are exciting trails at every Canadian Rockies. Be sure not to turn throughout the Rockies and miss Lake Louise, the prize of the Badlands alike. park showcasing turquoise waters.
Kayaking and Canoeing — From the Jasper National Park — Bigger might glacier-fed lakes to Class III rapids, be better at the largest national park Alberta offers some of the best in the Canadian Rockies. Here a more opportunities for paddlers to learn remote environment is home to about the province’s unique geology dozens of trails providing the perfect and to take in local wildlife from atmosphere to learn about nature. the water. Calgary Stampede — With historic Fly Fishing — Alberta is an angler’s traditions of pancake breakfasts, paradise. One of Canada’s best re- white hats and wild riding, the gions for fly fishing yields rainbow Calgary Stampede is a celebration of trout, walleye and more through its Western cultural heritage. Stampede diverse waterways. Grab a license Park can be explored year-round, and a good lure, then cast away in but the Calgary Stampede is an pristine waters. annual 10-day event in early July.
Lake Louise in Banff National Park 3 To browse our Alberta programs, visit www.roadscholar.org/Alberta British Columbia
With almost 200 First Nations groups and more than 30 indigenous languages, British Columbia is the perfect place to step back in time and learn from those who discovered this land. As you follow the tribal footsteps, discover the remote landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, alpine meadows, coastal islands and lush forests. Learn about their 10,000-year-old heritage in Vancouver Island, which many call home, or in the cultural centers that dot this province. Once you’ve delved far into the past, immerse yourself in the present-day culture of British Columbia, exploring the diverse neighborhoods of Victoria and Vancouver to get a wider scope of this fascinating province.
Regional Adventures: Road Scholar Recommends:
Journey by train — Venture by train Vancouver — With a laid-back atti- into the interior of the province tude and a variety of adventures to be and admire breathtaking natural had, this metropolis isn’t your typical wonders. No matter which route you concrete jungle. Walk on the shore at take, your ride will certainly be full English Bay Beach, hike through the of panoramic views of untouched forest of Stanley Park, or dine and wilderness. explore the downtown streets.
Water Sports — Kayak, sail or raft Butchart Gardens — Experience the along the waterways of British Co- serenity of this acclaimed 55-acre lumbia while you watch for marine garden and take inspiration home wildlife and appreciate breathtaking to your own backyard. The grand scenery. display of plants and flowers of all shapes, sizes and colors showcases Wildlife Watching — Whale watch impeccable design with something along the coast of Victoria or try to spectacular to enjoy in every season. spot a grizzly during an exciting field trip to Knight Inlet. With a Victoria — It’s easy to see why this variety of exciting wildlife in the delightful city is the capital of Brit- region, keep an eye out for bald ish Columbia. The harbor’s historic eagles, moose and wolves, too. charm welcomes you to discover the allure beyond the renowned flora in Canada’s “City of Gardens.”
Totems in Stanley Park, Vancouver 3 To browse our B.C. programs, visit www.roadscholar.org/British Columbia Manitoba Maniotwapow — “the strait of the spirit” — Cree
No matter what time of year you explore the remote landscapes of Manitoba, a once-in-a-lifetime experience awaits. True adventurers will journey in the winter in search of the elusive blues and greens of the Northern Lights and to study the stars. In the fall, you might just find some friends in the form of polar bears as you ride a Tundra Buggy® through untamed wilderness. Search for a pod of beluga whales, bobbing up from Hudson Bay as you enjoy a Manitoba summer, and go birdwatching in the spring. Whichever season you choose, the experts at Churchill Northern Studies Center will show you the lay of the land and teach you about all of the wildlife and wonders just waiting to be discovered.
Regional Wonders: Road Scholar Recommends:
Aurora Borealis — With over 300 Winnipeg — A blend of history and nights of visible activity in the innovation, Winnipeg is a one-of- northern Manitoba, the chances are a-kind city. Explore the incredible high to see the Northern Lights here Canadian Museum for Human Rights almost any time of the year. Join a to learn about local history or jour- local expert as you learn about this ney through The Forks, a market beautiful natural phenomenon. and dining tradition centuries in the making. Wildflowers— A different kind of rainbow fills the fields of Manitoba Churchill — A city full of adventure, in the spring when the native wild- Churchill is an ideal place to expe- flowers bloom free throughout the rience history and nature. Explore region, and a protected few appear the star-shaped Prince of Wales in the Tallgrass Prairies Preserve Fort, gaze at the aurora borealis or habitat. observe polar bears in their natural habitat. Polar Bears — As the polar bear capital of the world, Churchill comes Itsanitaq Museum — Home to one to life in the autumn when the bears of Canada’s oldest and most com- journey from the tundra into new prehensive collections of Inuit arti- hunting ground. facts and sculptures, this museum is a great place to study the local, aboriginal people.
Aurora Borealis seen from Churchill 3 To browse our Manitoba programs, visit www.roadscholar.org/Manitoba Newfoundland & Labrador
The locals of Newfoundland & Labrador welcome you the Canadian way: with friendly faces and open arms. Here, you’ll meet some of the nicest neighbors in the world, eager to take you to their small, historic towns. Learn how important the fishing industry is to seaside villages and discover the colorful row houses that make St. John’s one of a kind. Hike the dramatic landscapes of Gros Morne National Park or learn about the local geology and fossils from expert researchers. In Newfoundland & Labrador, there’s an adventure around every corner, and a smiling local ready to show you the way.
Regional Wonders: Road Scholar Recommends:
Whales — Watch for over 22 species St. John’s — As one of the oldest of these impressive creatures who cities in North America, established frequent this region, including in the 1500s, St. John’s offers coastal humpbacks, orca, minke, blue vistas and a friendly fishing culture and fin. in addition to rich, colorful history.
Atlantic Puffins— Journey to Gros Morne National Park — Witless Bay to meet this official bird Discover diverse flora and fauna of Newfoundland and Labrador. surrounding some of North America’s Mating for life and returning home tallest waterfalls and glacial fjords, each year are just two of the charac- then explore the historic Tablelands, teristics that make puffins a unique made of the Earth’s mantle at this and lovable species. UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Icebergs — Mysterious, enormous Cape Spear — Admire the first and gorgeous, these natural wonders sunrise in North America at the con- are floating works of art. You can tinent’s most easterly point, explore also experience the fresh taste of Fort Cape Spear and learn about one with local drinks like iceberg the oldest surviving lighthouse in water, beer, wine and spirits. Newfoundland.
Atlantic Puffin, official bird of Newfoundland & Labrador 3 To browse our Newfoundland programs, visit www.roadscholar.org/Newfoundland New Brunswick
Twice a day, every day, over 170 billion tons of seawater glide in and out of the Bay of Fundy’s shoreline. Here, at the highest tides in the world, you can watch the bottom of the sea appear and reappear, dramatically changing the landscape over the course of 24 hours. Study this natural phenomenon with local experts as you learn how the sea has shaped the land. In New Brunswick, you’ll find that the ocean is the source of life for the diverse cultures that live on all three coastlines, from shipbuilders and seafarers to French- speaking Acadians. If maritime history pique your interest, New Brunswick is the perfect place for new discoveries.
Regional Specialties: Road Scholar Recommends:
Fiddleheads — New Brunswick’s Bay of Fundy — Waves of wonder favorite vegetable is nutrient-rich, reach new heights at the Bay of delicious and picked directly from Fundy, home of the highest tides in the wild. Although fiddleheads have the world. This bay is a must-see for a notoriously short spring harvest, ocean lovers, with exciting features they are a versatile veggie that like fossils, rare and diverse marine makes a tasty addition to any dish. life and unique formations shaped by the waves, like the Hopewell Rocks. Poutine Râpée — A traditional Acadian dish, this holiday favorite Roosevelt Campobello International consists of a round, boiled potato Park — Explore the indoor/outdoor dumpling filled with salt pork. Not park and Isle of Campobello to un- to be confused with the poutine derstand why the former president accompanied by curds and gravy, held it so dear. Walk through the poutine râpée is often enjoyed with Roosevelts’ summer house, then syrup or brown sugar for a savory- meander through the serene park sweet treat. grounds while you take in seaside views. Lobster — This delicious crustacean can be found all over the province, Beaubears Island — A National but if you’re looking for the best Historic Site, this island is a historic of the best, make sure you venture landmark for both the wooden ship- to Shediac, known as the “Lobster building industry and the Acadian Capital of the World.” Explore She- people. Travel back in time to this diac in July and you may even stum- untouched island and discover the ble upon its local lobster festival! history of times gone by.
Bay of Fundy 3 To browse our New Brunswick programs, visit www.roadscholar.org/NewBrunswick Nova Scotia
Another maritime province, Nova Scotia offers access to the Bay of Fundy and quaint coastal villages. However, this province’s blended cultures truly make it one of a kind. Join experts in Halifax, one of the oldest cities in North America and where hundreds of thousands of Celtic immigrants took their first steps. Venture to the Fortress of Louisbourg, a National Historic Site with grand displays of French-colonial architecture. Or, immerse yourself in local culture in Barrington, a popular lobstering spot, or in Cape Breton National Park while learning about the flora and fauna. Whatever adventure you choose, you’re sure to breathe in that fresh seaside air and meet friendly locals who are truly the salt of the earth.
Regional Specialties: Road Scholar Recommends:
Digby Scallops — These world- Peggy’s Cove — Just 30 minutes famous scallops are fresh from the from Halifax, this coastal town is Bay of Fundy and can be seared, packed with adventure. Take a walk wrapped in bacon or even stuffed or hike around the rocky cove or with lobster. search for birds on the water’s edge, but be sure to see one of the most Donair — The official food of iconic-looking lighthouses in the Halifax is a twist on a gyro consist- land, Peggy’s Point Lighthouse. ing of shaved beef marinated in secret spices, a top-secret garlic Cape Breton National Park — sauce, chopped onion and tomato Explore where the mountains meet all rolled in a freshly grilled pita. the sea as you look for moose quietly grazing in Cape Breton. Sweeping Wine — Award-winning wine pairs landscapes surround you as you ven- perfectly with the seafood-focused ture through this breathtaking park. local fare. With 18 different wineries to choose from, you’re sure to find Lunenburg — This charming, col- one you enjoy that showcases the orfully painted port town is also a distinct flavor of Nova Scotia. UNESCO World Heritage Site for its display of British Colonial settle- ment in North America.
Peggy’s Point Lighthouse 3 To browse our Nova Scotia programs, visit www.roadscholar.org/NovaScotia Northwest Territories, Nunavut & Yukon Nunavut — “our land” — Inuktitut; Yu-kun-ah — “great river” — Gwich’in
By far the most remote, these Canadian territories shine in rich history and stunning landscapes. Brushing up against the Arctic Circle, Canada’s three federal territories — Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut — boast pristine natural environments where the adventurous can trace the footsteps of the first people to cross the Bering land bridge tens of thousands of years ago. Alongside experts, explore the vast landscapes that have remained unchanged for millennia as you learn what drew Native peoples and gold prospectors to the mighty mountains. Revel at a chance to see the colorful Northern Lights or glide along the Yukon River in a canoe searching for bald eagles. An adventure to the North is like an adventure through time as you experience Canada in its purest form.
Regional Adventures: Road Scholar Recommends:
Wildlife Watching — Polar bears, Wood Buffalo National Park — bison, wolves and bald eagles roam Explore this designated dark-sky free in the untouched wild of north- reserve, which is home to the last of ern Canada. Even farther north in the free-roaming wood bison, the Arctic waters you may even spot the rare whooping crane, unique karst elusive narwhals. sinkholes and the world’s largest beaver dam. It’s your chance to Dog Sledding — Experience this witness nature’s rarest beauties! historic mode of transportation as you become a part of the pack riding Dawson City — Experience the thrill behind a team of huskies through of gold in this historic Yukon town the wild. as you learn firsthand about the Klondike Gold Rush. Sky Gazing — From the midnight sun to the Northern Lights and all Baffin Island — Explore two national the stars and clouds in between, we parks, discover Arctic wildlife and could gaze at the untouched beauty learn about the Inuit culture on of this region’s sky for hours. Canada’s largest island.
3 Kluane National Park, Yukon Ontario Kanadario — “sparkling water” — Iroquois
With around 40% of Canada’s population living here, you’d be hard-pressed to find any other place in the world as multicultural as Ontario. In Ottawa, the capital of Canada, you’ll find endless entertainment in its theaters, galleries, restaurants and unique neighborhoods. And although the city is definitely where you’ll find the beating heart of Ontario’s culture, venture outside of the big cities to discover landscapes just as diverse. Arguably the most famous is the stunning Niagara Falls, with over 3,000 tons of water flowing over the falls every second. But following closely behind are the Bruce Trail, 1,000 Islands region, Algonquin National Park and so much more.
Regional Adventures: Road Scholar Recommends:
Birdwatching — From Point Pelee The Great Lakes — Formed from National Park to the Rainy River glaciers centuries ago, the world’s region in Ontario, birds are in abun- largest freshwater ecosystem is dance. Birders may even spot rare a natural wonder. Experience the species like Kirtland’s Warbler and beauty of all five historic lakes: Mississippi Kite. Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie and Ontario. Kayaking — Paddle through the 1,000 Islands region and reconnect Toronto — Discover a city rich with nature as you experience the with diversity and culture from the unique flora and fauna of the Fron- streets of Old Toronto to the castle tenac Arch Biosphere Reserve. hallways of Casa Loma. As a home to over 100 different cultures, this Hiking — Ontario is ripe with a fourth-largest city in North America variety of breathtaking hikes. Some offers food, art and music as unique of our favorite awe-inspiring and varied as its residents. journeys are in UNESCO World Biospheres: the Bruce Trail along the Waterfalls — After you take in the Niagara Escarpment and Long Point grandeur of Niagara Falls, embark Biosphere. on an adventure to Hamilton, the waterfall capital of the world and home to more than 100 cascading streams.
Rideau Canal and Parliament, Ottawa 3 To browse our Ontario programs, visit www.roadscholar.org/Ontario Prince Edward Island Abeqweit — “cradled in the waves” — Mi’kmaq
Prince Edward Island, a maritime province, enjoys its own “island way of life.” Where creativity is regarded as a birthright, artists inspired by the land are welcomed and traditions are preserved through music, storytelling, dance and cuisine. Join locals around the table for mussel, lobster and oyster feasts for true sea-to-table dining, and find your own inspiration while exploring red-rust beaches and picture-perfect seaside towns. Though it may be the smallest of all the provinces, it boasts countless biking trails, coastal drives and postcard-worthy lighthouses just waiting to be explored. Here, immerse yourself in the landscapes that inspired Anne of Green Gables as you find yourself filled with child-like wonder on this breathtaking island.
Regional Specialties: Road Scholar Recommends:
Seafood — Home to world-renowned Anne of Green Gables — Journey to mussels, lobster, clams and oysters, the setting of the classic novel by there’s truly no better place to savor L.M. Montgomery as you experience the flavor of seafood than Prince the inspirational coastal charm that Edward Island. led to the iconic fictional story, Anne of Green Gables. Potatoes — With iron-rich soil and salty sea air, the locals of Prince Charlottetown — Uncover more Edward Island claim to harvest an than Canadian history as you unparalleled potato. From chowder to explore PEI’s captivating capital. gnocchi, and often served as the per- Island vibes influence city living in fect accompaniment to the island’s Charlottetown, where a variety of fresh seafood, you won’t be disap- adventures can be enjoyed — from pointed no matter what you order. delicious dining to enchanting en- tertainment. Cheese — From award-winning cheddars to a vast variety of Gouda, Lighthouses — There is no shortage Prince Edward Island delivers on of light on PEI with over 60 light- cheese. Learn the process of cheese houses on the island. The island making at local farm or sample even has its own Lighthouse Society some at a shop to taste the unique dedicated to preserving these im- flavors of the island. portant pieces of maritime history.
East Point 3 To browse our Prince Edward Island programs, visit www.roadscholar.org/PEI Québec Kebek — “narrow passage” — Algonquin
Bienvenue au Québec! Though its name has Algonquin origins, this province has adopted a distinct French identity ever since explorer Jacques Cartier landed on present-day Québec in 1535. Today, you can get a taste of Europe right in your own backyard as you’re greeted with a friendly “bonjour!” in Montréal or while scooping a spoonful of the local haute cuisine in cozy restaurants. From the craggy cliffs of the Gaspé Peninsula to the historic architecture of Québec City, experience the unique mixture of proud Native and sophisticated French that creates a new culture all its own.
Regional Specialties: Road Scholar Recommends:
Poutine — With origins tracing back Montréal — Immerse yourself in to the 1950s, this Québec invention a new world as you wander the is a true indulgence composed of historic cobblestone streets of this fries, cheese curds and gravy. Cities French-speaking city. Be sure to across Canada have adopted their sample the local fare and admire own twist on the dish, but our fa- the neo-gothic architecture of the vorite is the Foie Gras version at Au Notre-dame Basilica of Montréal. Pied de Cochon in Montréal. Québec City — European influences Pea soup — Fighting with poutine fill and inspire this beautiful colo- for national dish status, this staple nial town. Alongside experts, ex- has been a part of Québec history plore the only fortified city in North since early settlers created it to keep America and its historic district, a warm in winter. UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Maple desserts — Québec is the Mont-Tremblant National Park — queen of maple treats. Satiate your There is more to see than magnif- sweet tooth with grands-péres, icent mountains here. A paradise a decadent dumpling drowning for any adventure-seeker, this park in syrup, or pouding chômeur, a is home to hundreds of waterways traditional cake with a bottom layer and dozens of different mammals, of syrup. including the wolf.
Château Frontenac, Québec City 3 To browse our Quebec programs, visit www.roadscholar.org/Quebec Saskatchewan Kisiskatchewani Sipi — “swift-flowing river” — Cree
Designated as a dark-sky reserve, all you have to do is look up to realize Saskatchewan’s beauty. Named “The Land of the Living Skies,” when you tilt your head to the clouds, you could see a flock of migratory birds, the dancing colors of the Northern Lights, breathtaking sunsets or beautifully bright lightning storms, depending on the time of year. Here, it’s easy to get swept up in your surroundings and enjoy the peaceful, slow-paced life of the rural communities that nestle in the rolling prairie lands. Enjoy some of the best fly fishing in the world, or a delicious, homegrown meal from one of the region’s many farms as the locals welcome you like family. A perfect place for reflection, discover tranquility of solitude as you drive along the long open roads that lead to endless adventures.
Regional Adventures: Road Scholar Recommends:
Grey Owl’s Cabin Hike — A part Prince Albert National Park — Soak of Prince Albert National Park, this up sun with lake activities or go for pilgrimage is filled with nature and a hike and take in the wildlife for a history. On this backcountry trek, chance to see the bison who call this discover the home of the fur trapper park home. turned conservationist who lied Regina — Uncover the history of about his identity, kept beavers as Saskatchewan from its art to its pets and inspired a movie. native people in Regina. Experience Little Manitou Lake — Although its the celebration of the renowned salt content levels are about half as Mounted Police at the RCMP Heri- much as the Dead Sea, it’s just as tage Centre and gain a sense of the fun to swim and float in this natural local flare through food, music and spa-like lake brimming with what museums throughout the city. natives consider healing mineral Grasslands National Park — Prairie waters. life is on full display here with plains Horseback Riding — Explore the spanning for miles and rare wildlife backcountry the historic way. Ride to discover. Watch for bison, eagles through the boreal forests, grassland and Black-Tailed Prairie Dogs, hike prairies and hills of Saskatchewan the badlands or explore dinosaur on horseback to discover this prov- remains. 3 Grasslands National Park ince from a unique perspective. Canada A COUNTRY OF RICH INDIGENOUS HERITAGE
ith its French-speaking cities and expansive national parks, it’s ant way of life. Though long gone are the bows and arrows, many Inuit still easy to see why Canada is such an incredible country. But to truly strive to live off the land by harvesting and hunting in groups, and have found W understand the beauty of Canada, you must also delve into its roots. themselves key advocates for wildlife preservation throughout Canada. Before European explorers touched down on Canadian soil, First Nations, Inuit Made up of mixed European and indigenous ancestry, the Métis Nation and Métis made their homes across the nation, farming the land and building consists of almost 600,000 people. Though these mixed marriages have towns of their own. As you explore the fascinating treasures of modern Canada been traced back through the centuries, the Métis people weren’t officially with us, we invite you to also learn about the true pioneers of this country. acknowledged until 1982 and fought for their recognition as full-rights From the prairies to the Arctic, the aboriginal people have communities aboriginal people until 2003. Their culture is especially unique as a melting across the country, with First Nations being the largest group. Though most pot of two ethnicities, often drawing from both indigenous and European of the First Nations people live in British Columbia and Alberta, they account influences in their music, famous floral beadwork and even in their language, for only a small amount of those provinces’ population. However, explore the Michif, which combines Cree and/or Saulteaux verbs with French nouns. Northwest Territories and you’ll find the First Nations influence very present The indigenous culture can be found in many aspects of modern life, when as they make up just over a third of the region. They were able to adjust to you’re kayaking through British Columbia, exploring cultural centers in the harsh environments up north because they believe people should live in Ontario or meeting locals in Québec. To learn about these cultures is an harmony with the natural world and all it contains. This spiritual belief can invaluable opportunity to truly understand the history and culture of this be found in many of their songs, dances, festivals and ceremonies, though country. And although many native groups have been severely threatened, modern adaptions have been made. they’re now on the rise though centuries of resilience. Their communities have For over 5,000 years, the Inuit have inhabited the Arctic region of Canada mayors and school systems, seats in Senate, and are heads of major corpora- known as “Inuit Nunangat.” Similar to First Nations, harmony and interde- tions and small businesses alike. Learning about indigenous cultures is a great pendence with the natural world are core values, and hunting is an import- window into past, but it’s also a crucial component to creating a bright future. Oh, Canada!
Not sure which Canadian journey to choose? Visit www.roadscholar.org/canada20 to find our full collection of Canadian learning adventures online.