North America
The 3rd largest continent, North America boasts diverse landscapes from icy Arctic tundra to sun-drenched deserts. Dominated by Canada, the United States, and Mexico, it also encompasses Central American countries and the Caribbean islands. Some of its iconic features include the Rocky Mountains, the Grand Canyon and the Great Lakes.
Culturally, it's a melting pot of indigenous traditions, European colonial legacies, and vibrant immigrant communities.
Economically robust, North America is a hub for technology, entertainment and industry that shapes global trends and influencing world affairs.
We are most familiar with North America, having lived in Canada for most of our lives, but now in the United States since 2005. We've visited Mexico multiple times and have travelled to Central American countries and many of the Caribbean islands. There's more info on my other pages. Click here for Central America. Click here for the Caribbean islands.
We hope we can either provide more information about these places or inspire you to visit them for yourselves! We are strong believers in education through travel experiences! Follow us!
Canada
This is our native land!
Canada is made up of 10 provinces and 3 territories, with several major cities, each with its own unique character and significance.
Canada has two official languages: English and French. It is a melting pot of diverse cultures made up of 38 million people.
French is primarily spoken in the province of Quebec, where we are from, where it holds the status of the official language. Parlez-vous francais? However, French is spoken in communities across the country with Francophone populations.
There's often a misconception that Canadians live in freezing temperatures near wildlife, bears and igloos. This makes me giggle because there's so much more to Canada! Canada is blessed with four seasons each producing its own beauty. You can go from very hot during the Summer months to freezing in the Winters, depending on where you go.
The beautiful cities of Canada, like Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Quebec City, Calgary, Halifax, Victoria, to name just a few. are all worth visiting!
Photo of Niagara Falls on the Canadian side.
Great travel guides:
For travel to Canada AND the United States during cold winter months, most of my travel fashion and packing tips apply, however, if you're planning a trip during cold winter season, do your research and prepare yourself accordingly! You'll need to layer up and you may want to invest in some decent outerwear and coat. Here are some suggestions (you'll be able to tell that I do not like being COLD):
Thermal undergarments
You may not always need thermal underwear, however, if you are planning on doing outdoor activities for an extended period of time, these are great!
Adirondack Boots
These UGG Adirondack boots are designed to help protect against heavy weather conditions. So if you're planning on outdoor activities, these just may be the right boot for you.
High boots
These Manhattan fur-lined tall winter boots are more my speed for winter months.
Merino wool thermal socks
Warm, hiking, cozy socks. You will thank me later!
The United States
With a population of 300 million people, the United States is a vast and diverse country known for its cultural, economic, and political influence on the world stage. It is one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse nations globally, shaped by waves of immigration from around the world. The country is known for its expansive landscapes, including towering mountains, vast desert plains, lush forests, amazing cities, and beautiful coastlines.
It is a federal republic made up of 50 states with their own governments and a federal district (Washington D.C.) that is the nation's capital.
The U.S. is known for it's democratic system of government, with a constitution that enshrines principles of liberty, democracy, and equality.
We've been living in the United States since 2005, first on the East coast and then on the West coast since 2007.
The Statue of Liberty, New York City.
Economically, the United States is the world's largest economy, driven by technology, finance, manufacturing, agriculture, and entertainment.
New York, Los Angeles and Chicago are the global centers of commerce, culture and innovation. We've travelled to all of those cities and New York City remains our favorite!
The United States is rich in Native American traditions, European colonization and immigration from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds make up its population. Our family embraces diversity, believing that education and learning about other cultures, foods and traditions, are the best way to build awareness, tolerance and respect for others.
The U.S. is a global leader in entertainment, producing influential music, film, and television. The U.S. remains a beacon of freedom and opportunity for many, attracting people from all over the globe seeking a better life and the pursuit of the American Dream. And here we are!
Great travel guides:
Mexico
Located between the U.S. and Central America, Mexico is such a vibrant country with rich culture, history and natural beauty! It has a diverse landscape, from deserts to jungles to beautiful white sand beaches.
Bustling cities, such as Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey, shows the country's economic and cultural vitality. However, the country is challenged by areas of poverty, corruption, and drug-related violence and as such, travel advisories are often issued to certain areas. Despite those challenges, Mexico's resilience and spirit endures!
We love Mexico for its vibrant festivals, mouthwatering cuisine, warm hospitality, and amazing clear white sand beaches! (remember, we are beach people). We love the beaches on the Mayan Riviera, Cancun and the small fishing town of Puerto Morelos which is gaining popularity. Mexico is a destination that captivates and inspires visitors from around the globe.
The weather in Mexico varies depending on the region and time of year. It's coastal regions range from the mid-70s to low-mid-80s. Other than some rain gear, and perhaps a sweater for layering, you won't need extra outerwear and boots like in the U.S. and Canada that's for sure!
Enjoy Mexico's rich culture, food and the beautiful weather!
Great travel guides:
