The Country:      
     
It's the edginess between Canada's indigenous, French and British traditions that gives the nation its complex three-dimensional character. Those expecting Canada to be a blander counterpart of its southern neighbor should check their preconceptions at the door - Canada's wild northern frontier, which has etched itself into the national psyche, and its distinct patchwork of peoples have created a country that is decidedly different to that of the USA. It has been consistently ranked by the UN as the number one country in the world to live in for the last 7 years. Having a large Asian Diaspora of students, Canada offers a truly international educational experience.    
     
Geography & Climate:   
     
Canada has four distinct seasons, although their arrival times vary across the country. The single most significant factor in climate is latitude.  
     
Currency:   
     
The official currency of Canada is Canadian dollar. The symbol is C $.   
     
Education:   
     
Canada is not only known for it's picturesque locations, but also for it's high standard of education. The colleges in Canada are at par with the best known colleges in the world, in terms of the educational programs offered and the facilities provided to the students.    
     
Major Cities:   
     
Bank, Ottawa, Montreal, Jasper, Toronto, Halifax, Calgary.   
     
Culture:   
     
English and French are the country's two official languages, though the province of New Brunswick is the only officially bilingual area in the country. You will, however, notice both languages on maps, tourist brochures and product labels. The French spoken in Canada is not, for the most part, the language of France. In Quebec, where the majority of the population are of French descent, the local tongue is known as Quebecois. Most Quebeckers will understand formal French; it will just strike them as being a little peculiar.   
     
Sports:   
     
For canoeing, kayaking and white-water rafting hiking. For beach activities, surf's up on the east coast at Ingonish Beach in Nova Scotia and in the warmer waters of Melmerby and Caribou beaches near New Glasgow. Skiers are spoilt for choice, with good cross-country skiing found all across the land. The main alpine ski centers are in Ontario, Quebec, Alberta and British Columbia.