A Trip to Canada
July 25, 2018
Written By: Marissa Kusayanagi
In the middle of the summer there comes a time when you need to refresh and unwind from all the travel. As someone who loves to travel, of course, my idea of relaxing is going on another trip. In my opinion, if you want the perfect combination of relaxation and exploration, Canada is the best place to go.
My last big trip of the summer season was to Vancouver and Banff, which was the perfect combination of city and nature. I am here to encourage you to take a trip to Canada whenever you can, and also to share the best places to stop when you are there.
Vancouver
Capilano Suspension Bridge is a top tourist spot, and even though I like to avoid the busy tourist areas, this is a place you need to visit. There is one main bridge that crosses over a beautiful river and then countless other walkways. Each little bridge will lead you to a new tree with a spectacular view. And the best part is, there is a student discount!
Main Street is an area that will provide you with everything you need! If you love coffee, donuts, vintage shops or healthy drinks, then you MUST stop here! Cultivate Tea is a beautiful little tea shop that you will come across if you are walking down Main Street. The kombucha is made with a green tea base, which produces some very delicious flavors. Don’t forget to buy a handmade teacup from their selection – it is the perfect gift for a friend or for yourself!
49th and Parallel might be the cutest coffee/donut shop in the area. After you order your fresh donut and pick up your coffee in a teal cup, sit down at the window seats to enjoy the view of the city. Or turn around for a front row seat of watching people make the delicious donuts.
Banff / Canmore
There are not enough words to describe the beauty in Banff, Canada. If you ever get to travel to Canada you will experience the feeling of awe and wonder as soon as you enter the city. I stayed in Canmore, which is a city outside of Banff and would highly recommend it to anyone traveling to the area. There is a short drive from Canmore to Banff but it is worth every second. Canmore offers the small town feeling with local shops everywhere. With so much to see in Banff, I am going to discuss some of my favorite stops.
Lake Louise
As most people may know, the lakes in Banff are overwhelmingly stunning and there are plenty to visit. Lake Louise is by far the most popular lake with water that is a milky blue. You won’t be able to take your eyes off the water. If you want an even better view, you can hop on the Bee Hive Trail to overlook the lake.
Lake Moraine
Each lake in Banff offers something a little different, which is what I love about Canada. A little hike will get you to the perfect view of Lake Moraine to gaze upon the incredible turquoise water. With the mountains stretching across the back of the lake, you will want to sit for a moment and take the scenery in.
Ha Ling Hike
First off, this hike was absolutely EXHAUSTING and extremely challenging. But, the view was worth every grueling minute of the very steep hike up. Ha Ling is about a ten minute drive from the downtown area of Canmore.
Johnston Canyons
My final stop of the week in Banff was to the Johnston Canyons. An easy hike will guide you along the jaw-dropping waterfalls with crystal blue water at the bottom. You might want to bring a rain jacket because you will get a little wet!
With the perfect playlist at hand and your hiking boots always ready, you can have the trip of a lifetime!