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Travel Talk / Canada

JENZA’s ultimate A-Z of Canada

Talk about bucket list bonanza. Here's everywhere you should go on your working holiday in Canada.

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Here at JENZA, we've put together an ultimate A-Z of our favourite Canada highlights. Time to get inspired.

A is for Alberta

Home of the Rocky Mountains, Banff and Jasper National Parks and the vibrant cities of Calgary and Edmonton. Its national animal is the Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep (name a cooler national animal – we'll wait). The epic landscapes give you a taste of the typical Canadian outdoor activities on offer. Think skiing, snowboarding, hiking, kayaking, biking and fishing – if you’re into that kind of thing.

B is for Banff

See above for the gorgeous Banff National Park, but that isn’t all Banff has to offer. Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta, it’s one of the most iconic destinations in Canada. Nestled within Banff National Park, the town is known for its breathtaking mountain scenery, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife. Plus, it’s home to two super famous resorts, Sunshine Village and Fairmont Banff Springs. Heard of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake? Yep, you’ll find them in Banff.

C is for Canucks

The Canucks are Vancouver’s pride and joy—unless you’re in a room full of Maple Leafs fans, in which case, good luck!.The Vancouver Canucks are a professional ice hockey team based in Vancouver, British Columbia. Their logo is an orca breaking through ice in the shape of a C – pretty cool if you ask us. Established in 1970, they’re one of the most famous and well-loved hockey franchises in Canada. Home games at Rogers Arena are like a carnival, with the roar of the crowd and the smell of nachos filling the air as fans cheer on the players, hoping to witness a goal that’ll be talked about for ages (or at least until the next game).

D is for Dog-sledding

Need we say any more? Not sure what’s cooler than being pulled by a pack of dogs on a sled through the snow – at speed. The breeds most used for dog-sledding are Alaskan Huskies, Siberian Huskies, and Malamutes, all known for their stamina, strength, and love for cold weather (and a job to do). It’s become a competitive sport, as well as tourist attraction, with dog-sledding tours becoming increasingly popular. Sign us up!

E is for Elk

Not for be confused for moose. Apparently that’s a bit of a faux pas. They walk around the great outdoors like they own the place—and honestly, they kind of do. They’re one of the largest species of the deer family, growing to 1.5m at the shoulder. A large population of elk is found in Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, and Yoho National Park, so you know where to go if you want to see these giants in real life. Elk are also known for their impressive vocalizations during mating season, which sounds a bit like a cross between a high-pitched bugle and a moose having a tough day.

F is for French

Being a bilingual country, French is one of the most commonly spoken languages. Although slightly different to the French spoken in France, Canadian French (fun fact alert) actually has some older linguistic features that have since disappeared in the modern French in France. In Quebec, the language isn’t just spoken; it’s celebrated through vibrant festivals, literature, and an unparalleled culinary scene that showcases the province's rich heritage. If you learnt French at school or have a killer streak on Duolingo, you’re likely to still get by in regions that speak it more commonly, such as Quebec or Ontario.

G is for Granville Island, Vancouver

No big deal, but has a brewery which makes Maple Syrup beer - instantly buys plane tickets. Granville Island is a peninsula located in the heart of Vancouver, British Columbia, and hosts the Granville Island Public Market. If you’re an art lover and a foodie, this is the place for you. The market is famous for its lively and friendly atmosphere, with local chefs and artisans selling their produce, food dishes and arty creations. Note to self – make sure to keep some space in your luggage to take home your new trinkets.

H is for Hockey

Canada’s favorite sport, ice hockey is known as one of Canada’s two national sports and can be traced back to the early 19th century in Canada. The National Hockey League (NHL) features a significant number of Canadian teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, Vancouver Canucks, and Calgary Flames. Canadian hockey is basically a national obsession, where kids learn to skate before they can walk and "ice time" is more valuable than gold.

I is for Ice Skates

Again with the ice theme, ice skating is a popular sport in Canada, and the ice skates themselves are used across other sports too (see above for ice hockey). The Rideau Canal Skateway in Ottawa is the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink, stretching 4.8 miles (7.8km). It’s even a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a popular destination during Ottawa’s Winterlude festival – we'd take this over Winter Wonderland any day.

J is for Jasper

Another ski town – are you starting to see a theme here? Located within Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper is like Canada's chill mountain hideaway, tucked in the Rockies where wildlife is everywhere and the views are next level. Whether you’re hiking, skiing at Marmot Basin, or living your best star-gazer life at the world-famous Dark Sky Preserve, it's the perfect spot to be a big kid in nature. With lakes that look straight out of a postcard and trails where you’re more likely to meet an elk than another human, Jasper's low-key charm makes it an outdoor lover’s dream without all the tourist fuss. Oh, and did we mention the hot springs? Yeah, it’s that good.

K is for Kelowna

Located in the Okanagan Valley, British Columbia. In summer, boating and biking are popular, and in winter, Alpine and Nordic skiing are big. Kelowna is like the Okanagan Valley’s cool older sibling, where you can go from paddleboarding on the lake to hiking scenic trails – all before dinner. With its laid-back vibe, beaches, and endless sunshine, it’s a summer playground for anyone who loves the outdoors. But Kelowna’s not just a pretty face – it’s got a buzzing food scene, local markets, and tons of ways to stay active, whether it’s biking, boating, or hitting the slopes at Big White in winter.

L is for Lake Louise

Nestled in the Rockies, it’s the ultimate spot for adventure, whether you're kayaking in summer or ice skating across the frozen lake in winter. It really does look like it just got plucked right out of a postcard that you’d have stuck on your fridge. Originally a simple stop for railway workers, it’s now a bucket-list destination, framed by glaciers and towering peaks. And if you’re into skiing, Lake Louise Ski Resort is world-class. Basically, it’s where nature goes full-on show-off mode.

M is for Maple Syrup

On everything. pancakes, eggs, bacon, beer… (see G). It's been a national treasure for centuries, with Indigenous peoples being the original syrup-makers long before it became a breakfast table staple. Quebec leads the charge, producing over 70% of the world’s supply, but you’ll find maple syrup flowing across the country. Whether you’re sampling it at a sugar shack or drizzling it over snow (yes, that’s a thing), this syrup is more than just a topping – it’s Canada’s sweetest claim to fame.

N is for Niagara Falls

Far more impressive in real life than on your laptop screen (this is a sign to book Work Canada). Niagara Falls is Canada’s jaw-dropping natural wonder, where millions of litres of water crash down daily with enough force to make you question whether your waterproof jacket is actually waterproof. With a stunning backdrop of more Canadian beauty, you can take a boat ride right into the mist for a good soaking or enjoy the view from above at one of the many observation decks.

O is for Ottawa

The capital city of Canada, Ottawa has a mix of history, culture, and a touch of quirky charm. Home to iconic landmarks like Parliament Hill, where the politicians do their thing (and occasionally get caught in a snowball fight), Ottawa is steeped in history and civic pride. The Rideau Canal, which transforms into the world's largest skating rink in winter, is a must-visit, especially when the beavertails are on hand to warm your soul. The city also boasts an impressive array of museums, from the Canadian Museum of History to the National Gallery of Canada, making it a cultural hotspot.

P is for Poutine

Originating from Quebec in the late 1950s, this iconic dish combines crispy fries, squeaky cheese curds (trust us on this one), and rich gravy in a glorious heap of cheesy indulgence. It’s the kind of meal that makes you question your life choices while simultaneously being the best decision you’ve ever made. Whether you enjoy it in a cozy diner or from a food truck after a night out, poutine is the perfect way to fuel your adventures. And let’s be honest, there are countless variations, from adding pulled pork to drizzling with spicy sauces, ensuring there’s a poutine for every palate. It’s the dish that brings people together, one cheesy, gravy-soaked fry at a time!

Q is for Québec

Canada’s French province, Québec feel like you've accidentally wandered into a European fairytale – with a little bit of jet lag. The province hosts vibrant festivals year-round, from the Winter Carnival to the Montreal International Jazz Festival, ensuring there’s always something happening. Nature lovers will find adventure in places like Mont Tremblant, while foodies can indulge in poutine, maple syrup, and fresh bagels. In short, Québec is the perfect blend of culture, nature, and delicious eats, all wrapped up in a friendly "Bonjour!"

R is for Rodeo

Calgary's annual rodeo the Calgary Stampede has to be seen to be believed. Think of it as a combination of athleticism, courage, and a touch of chaos, all wrapped up in a cowboy hat. Rodeo is Canada’s answer to the wild west, from bull riding that’s basically flirting with danger to barrel racing that proves speed and precision aren’t just for your average commute. Events like steer wrestling and roping showcase skills honed from generations of ranching, while the energy of the crowd can make even the most reluctant city slicker want to don some boots and join in the fun. It’s a mix of athleticism, bravado, and a sprinkle of chaos, all served with a side of “What were they thinking?”

S is for Snow

Have you gathered that Canada might be a little bit snowy? Canadian snow is the kind of stuff that dreams (and winter sports) are made of. Outdoor activities range from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and ice skating on the frozen lakes – see above for ice skating and ice hockey. With a staggering 65% of Canada’s land mass sporting annual snow cover for over six months a year, it’s safe to say that when winter hits, it doesn’t mess around - don’t forget your mittens, frostbite isn’t a fashionable accessory.

T is for Toronto

Famous for the CN tower and its amazing film festival, Toronto is a delightful mishmash of cultures. Fancy dim sum in Chinatown, gelato in Little Italy, and poutine from a food truck all in one day? Sign us up. Founded in 1973 with a current population of around 2.8 million, Toronto is Canada’s vibrant urban jungle. With areas like the historic Distillery District, where cobblestone streets and artisanal breweries are a perfect day out, Toronto has an abundance of things to get stuck into. And let’s not forget the sports scene—whether you’re rooting for the Raptors, Blue Jays, or Maple Leafs, the energy is contagious, especially during playoffs.

U is for Ukami Rolls

Believe it or not, the West Coast of Canada is big on sushi. Vancouver and Toronto are the undisputed sushi capitals, boasting everything from casual conveyor belt restaurants to high-end dining experiences. Vancouver’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean provides a ton of fresh seafood, while Toronto introduces unique twists, like the beloved sushi burrito. Other cities like Calgary and Montreal are also catching on, with their own exciting sushi spots popping up all the time.

V is for Vancouver

Vancouver hosted the winter Olympics in 2010, so it’s already off to a good start. Outdoor enthusiasts can ski, bike the seawall, or relax at English Bay, while Stanley Park provides the greenery that you crave when you’re in a city a while. This multicultural city offers everything from fresh seafood at Granville Island to world-class sushi, making it a food lover’s dream.

W is for Whistler

Boasting over 8,100 acres of skiable terrain, Whistler is one of the largest skiable areas in North America, and hosts some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world. Nestled in the stunning Coast Mountains, this vibrant resort town offers more than just winter sports - it's a year-round destination filled with hiking, biking, and breathtaking views plucked right out of another postcard (Canada has a habit of that). Whistler Village is full of cozy cafes, lively après-ski spots, and trinket boutiques. If you’re not hitting the slopes, you can always indulge in local craft drinks or treat yourself to world-class dining. Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort also has more than 200 marked trails, meaning there’s something for everyone—from powder hounds to beginners.

X is for X-treme Winter Sports

Okay, you got us. This might be a bit of a cop out. However, Canada has it’s fair share of lesser known extreme sports that we couldn’t help but give a mention to. Ever heard of ice boating? Picture yourself racing across frozen lakes at breakneck speeds, steering a boat on blades like a snowy Captain Hook—just with less pirating and more frostbite. Then there’s snow kiting, where you use wind power to glide across snowy fields like a superhero on a budget. And for the truly adventurous, how about ice swimming? Yes, you can take a refreshing dip in icy waters, although that one you can keep to yourself.

Y is for Yukon

Home of Canada’s tallest mountain, Mount Logan, Yukon is known for its stunning landscapes, from the towering peaks of the Saint Elias Mountains to the vast, untouched wilderness. Yukon is the smallest and westernmost of Canada's three territories, and is mostly unpopulated due to its rugged terrain. Famously linked to the Klondike Gold Rush, today visitors can explore charming towns like Whitehorse and Dawson City, where old-timey saloons and the gold rush history come to life in the 21st century. Whether you’re dog sledding through snowy trails, hiking in Kluane National Park, or soaking in hot springs, you’re in for a good time. Plus, if you’re lucky you might just catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights – we call that a win win.

Z is for Ziplining

Enjoyable both in the summer and the winter, ziplining is a great way to see Canada’s postcard scenery from a birds eye view. With ziplines over Niagara Falls, over the hot springs in British Columbia, or over some of the beautiful lakes in Jasper, wherever you are there’s bound to be a zipline nearby. The Sasquatch zipline, however, is the ruler of all other ziplines. Stretching over 1.2 miles and soaring to a jaw-dropping height of 183 metres (600 feet)—try not to lose your lunch as you take in the views. Connecting the iconic Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, this beast of a zipline is not just the longest in Whistler, but also takes the crown as the longest zipline in all of Canada and the USA.

If all of this wasn’t enough, Canada has a bunch of other places and activities to get involved in. Want to see for yourself? Head over to our Work Canada page for more info on how to live the outdoors life on a working holiday in Canada.

A laptop sits at the edge of the water

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JENZA Staff

JENZA Staff

As a bunch of work(abroad)aholics, we have a few travel tales to tell.

With lakes that look straight out of a postcard and trails where you’re more likely to meet an elk than another human, Jasper's low-key charm makes it an outdoor lover’s dream without all the tourist fuss.

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JENZA Travel International Ltd, trading as JENZA, is a company registered in Dublin, Ireland with Registered Company No. 707281 and registered address at 29-31 South William St, Dublin, Ireland, D02 EY96.