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Canadian Information of Interest

From Canadian Castles to hot air ballooning; ice fishing in Newfoundland and sandsculpting; Canada is rich with culture, entertaining activities and history.  Canada is an extremely diverse country with something to offer every resident or tourist.  Some not-so-common activities and information is provided here for those people who are interested in learning more than the typical Canadian information website provides.

Canadian Castles

Everyone loves the magic and lure that surrounds a castle.  While Canada does not have as many castles as England, there are a few well known and loved castles within Canada.  Some frequently visited castles in Canada include:

  • Casa Loma, in Toronto
  • Castle Hill-Placentia, in Newfoundland and Labrador
  • Dundum Castle, in Hamilton, Ontario
  • For Chambly, in Quebec (on the Richelieu River)
  • Fort Henry, in Kingston, Ontario
  • Laurier Castle, in Ottawa

Castle Architecture

Over the years, Canada has struggled between two Architecture styles.  You will see influences from both Victorian Gothic and Chateau style architecture in just about every building in Canada.  Many of the castles in Canada show a neo-chateau style, including The Chateau Laurier in Ottawa, Ontario.  The details and elegance of castle architecture is breath-taking.

Sand Sculpting Capital of the World

In Harrison, Hot Springs, the World Championship of Sand Sculpting is held, making the area known as the Sand Sculpting Capital of the World.  Participants from all over the world gather to create the ultimate sand masterpieces on the beaches of Canada.  These sculptures are nothing like your average sand castle; with lifesized creations that will withstand wind and rain for long periods of time, and detail that makes the sand sculptures "art".

Hot Air Balloon Rides

All areas of Canada have companies providing hot air balloon rides.  What a beautiful way to take in the scenary and beauty that is Canada!  Most rides are between one and two hours in length, and depends greatly on weather conditions and the weight in the hot air balloon.  If you're a visitor to Canada, this is one activity you won't want to miss, bring your camera!

Ice Fishing in Newfoundland

One of the few sports that does not require much "skill", ice fishing in Newfoundland is an activity many fishermen love to experience.  Fishermen get bundled up in winter coats and hats and head out onto the ice for a day to try their luck!  For day trips, you can do without an ice shanty; however, the wind is often extremely cold and you can improve your comfort level by having a small shanty or shed without a floor (so you can drill through the ice to set your fish traps) to block the wind.

Paragliding and handgliding

A somewhat risky sport, paragliding and handgliding let thrill seekers get as close to being a "bird" as possible!  Flying through the air is an experience you will not soon forget!  The trick is to find a hill that allows you to run off while in your "wings"- while the wind is blowing towards the hill.  The wind and wings will not allow you to run and soon you will be airborne- and could potentially fly 500 feet above the ground.

It's best to learn the sport with an experienced teacher first, and ride tandem until you know exactly how to maneuver and land your paragliding or handgliding apparatus.