1. Canada is celebrating 150 years as a country in 2017. For their sesquicentennial, Canadians are already planning some of the biggest July 1 celebrations the country has ever seen.
2. Lonely Planet just named Canada the #1 Country to Visit in 2017.
“Bolstered by the wave of positivity unleashed by its energetic new leader Justin Trudeau, and with dynamic cities that dominate global livability indices and a reputation for inclusiveness and impeccable politeness, the world’s second-largest country will usher in its sesquicentennial in 2017 in rollicking good health. Marking 150 years since confederation, the elongated birthday party promises to be heavy on bonhomie and highly welcoming to international gatecrashers. And, with a weak Canadian dollar pushing down prices, the overseas visitor should have plenty of pocket money to spend on Canada’s exciting fusion food and mysteriously underrated wine.
3. Earlier this week, the Royal Canadian Geographical Society has hatched its decision for the bird best suited to represent Canada after a two-year search and 50,000 votes from across the country. The gray jay, also known as the whiskey jack, was awarded the society’s official recommendation for Canada’s national bird on Wednesday. The gray jay, which is widely considered one of the most intrepid bird species native to North America, can be found in every province and territory. Even though the federal government has not commented on naming a national bird, spotting this Canadian corvid provides another reason to visit.
4. Join Reefs to Rockies for our inaugural Wildlife Wonders of the Bay of Fundy group departure in July. The world’s highest tides, millions of sandpipers on migration, an assortment of whales, a nesting colony of Atlantic puffins within arm’s reach, and a rich tapestry of maritime culture set the stage for this special trip to New Brunswick, Canada.