Of all the places in the world to visit this year, National Geographic Traveler recommends 20. And two of them are right here in Canada – one on the west coast, the other on the east.

Liquid love on the terrace: Montréal

Surf the snow: snowkiting and iceboating

Oysters. Check. Apples. Check. Seafood. Check. If you love fresh, local, artisan Canadian food, there’s a festival celebrating it somewhere in the country. And what better way to eat your way from coast to coast? Here’s a selection.

Feel the healing powers of a waterside spa

Rideau Canal Skateway, Ottawa, Ontario

So you want to take home something fabulous to remember your equally fabulous Canadian holiday? Perhaps something more than a can of maple syrup (as good as that is) or a T-shirt? Here are seven souvenirs that rise to the occasion.

Canada owns winter – that’s why we’re so good at celebrating the dark, cold months. With this line-up of festivals you won’t succumb to cabin fever. You may forget it’s winter entirely.

Fernie Alpine Resort, Fernie

Whether in search of Northern Lights, Pacific waves or city celebrations, travellers in-the-know head to Canada to experience winter at its best.