Canada Sights

Tourism and especially ecotourism has become a significant sector of economy. Every year more and more tourists come to enjoy spectacular scenery and diverse wildlife of Canada as well as cultural events, 42 national parks and beaches, lakes and rivers. The province of British Columbia, the westernmost of Canada's provinces, famed for its natural beauty, is most geographically diverse. It contains mountains, coastline, dense rainforests and the country's only true desert. British Columbia has more than 675 parks and protected areas attracting about 24 million visitors every year. The Rocky Mountains remain the biggest attraction and have over 5 million hectares of designated parkland. Coastal British Columbia is also popular with its beaches, hiking trails, wildlife reserves and whale-watching.

The Niagara Falls are voluminous waterfalls on the Niagara River at the US state of New York. The Niagara Falls are composed of two major parts separated by an island: Horseshoe Falls mostly lies on the Canadian side of the border, and American Falls on the American side. The Niagara Falls are famous for both their beauty and a valuable source of hydroelectric power.

Ottawa, the capital, impresses tourists by its parks, museums and art galleries and a mixture of English and French traditions. On its Parliament Hill where Canada celebrates Canada Day on July, 1^st is a small copy of London Houses of Parliament.

Toronto, the capital of Ontario Province, is Canada's biggest and most populous city. Its City Hall, a unique architectural ensemble, CN Tower (553 m), Sky Dome, a huge stadium for sport events, concerts and goods exhibition, are worth visiting. Toronto has about 400 parks.

Montreal is the second biggest city in Canada. It is unlike any other city in Canada. It has an atmosphere all of its own. It's a friendly romantic place where couples kiss on the streets and strangers talk to each other! The oldest part of the city, Old Montreal, dates from the 1700s. There are old churches and cathedrals there. One of them is Notre-Dame Basilica, a copy of Notre-Dame de Paris. There are also a lot more places for entertainment: Botanical Garden, Old Fort, La Ville Souterraine, the Underground City with shops, restaurants, and cafes.

1. Why is tourism a constantly growing industry in Canada?

2. Is the Niagara Falls located in Canada or in the USA?

3. What geographical features of Canada can explain its attractiveness for holiday-makers?

4. Where can you see copies of world-famous British and French buildings?

5. Which city has an underground town?