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After much anticipation, Lonely Planet has just revealed its annual list of top countries to travel to next year. For 2017, Canada has been ranked as the number one country to visit!
We know Canada is incredible, but we’re delighted the country has received deserved recognition from the renowned travel guidebook publisher. The Lonely Planet’s guide on top countries to visit is part of its best in travel study, which also highlights the top 10 cities, regions and value destinations people should head to next year.
The Lonely Planet experts crowned Canada the top country to visit in 2017 because it boasts dynamic cities, its residents are polite and inclusive, the country is celebrating its 150th birthday since confederation and visitors should have more money in their pocket because of a weak Canadian dollar. Even the country’s new leader, Justin Trudeau, received praise from Lonely Planet for his energetic style.
Canada is a beautiful country – and is @lonelyplanet‘s #1 destination for 2017. Come visit! https://t.co/EdO8p6cwdX
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) 25 October 2016
In an article on Forbes, Lonely Planet’s Canada destination editor, Alex Howard, backed up these pros. He said, “Canada is always popular with us.
“But there are several things going on in 2017 that made it number one. First, it’s the country’s biggest birthday party in recent memory with the sesquicentennial next year, and they won’t be shy about celebrating.
“Also, international travellers can expect their money to go further due to the weak Canadian dollar, so now is the time to start planning a trip.”
If you need any more encouragement to visit Canada, then check out the below video from Keep Exploring.
Things to see for first-time visitors to Canada
Tempted by the must-visit country for 2017? If you are considering your first trip on holiday to Canada next year, then you might be wondering what you should do. Here we take you through the top things to see.
Niagara Falls
Arguably the most famous waterfall in the world, the Niagara Falls should certainly be on your bucket list.
Over 12 million visitors from across the globe visit these spectacular falls every summer and the lucky ones that do are able to see nature at its very best.
Our guide on the top things to do at the Niagara Falls also shows that there are plenty of activities visitors can do at the falls such as cycling, or visiting the Skylon Tower and the Aquarium of Niagara.
Great Bear Rainforest
If you are a fan of wildlife, then Canada is certainly the perfect holiday destination for you.
While you can see polar bears at Churchill, the Great Bear Rainforest is 250 miles of pristine wilderness known for its black bears and grizzlies. If you didn’t know Canada had a rainforest, you’d be forgiven as this region is one of the country’s best hidden gems!
As we mention in our guide to the Great Bear Rainforest, the diverse ecosystem is home to Kermode, grizzly and black bears as well as orca, humpback and fin whales. You could also spot wolves, cougars, deer and sea lions on your adventure here!
Banff National Park
Home to many of the vibrant glacial lakes that are synonymous with Canada, Banff National Park is a popular destination for keen hikers and photographers.
The oldest national park in Canada is nestled in the heart of the beautiful Canadian Rockies. It is where the stunning Moraine Lake can be found, which has been immortalised in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel campaign.
Toronto
The dynamic metropolis of Toronto perfectly reflects Canada’s multiculturalism, as over half of the population of the city is believed to have been born outside Canada.
The city’s restaurant scene is highly-acclaimed and there are some great attractions that holidaymakers can visit. None of which are greater than the 553.33 metre high CN Tower, which has been celebrating its own 40th birthday.
The top 10 countries Lonely Planet recommended people to visit in 2017 are:
- Canada
- Colombia
- Finland
- Dominica
- Nepal
- Bermuda
- Mongolia
- Oman
- Myanmar
- Ethiopia
