CANADA Events between Pacifi c and Atlantic

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special destination > subject

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British Columbia is Canada’s ‘outdoor playground’ – offering year-round outdoor adventure such as river rafting on the mighty Fraser, world class skiing at Whistler Resort, kayaking around the Gulf Islands, whale watching in Victoria, dude ranch vaca-tions in the Cariboo or wine tours around Kelowna in the Thompson Okanagan. Plenty of opportunities for incentives.

Set between the province of Alberta and the Pacifi c Ocean, British Columbia in Canada is a land renowned for its remarkable diversity and mild climate, giving rise to an endless array of places to see and things to do across the province. Mountains to marvel at and climb; history to discover; art to adore; endless beaches and cosmopolitan cities to explore… And as the home of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, it is also a great place to hold a meeting. From fi ve-star resorts to rustic backcountry cabins, laid back relaxation to white knuckle adventure, the possibilities are endless. The province’s motto, ‘Splendour without Diminishment’, is an apt description of this destination.

Canada > introduction

Atlantic Ocean

Hudson Bay

Arctic Ocean

Pacific Ocean

Yukon

Northwest territories Nunavut

British columbia

Alberta

Saskatchewan

Manitoba

Ontario

Québec

Newfoundland and labrador

New brunswick

Prince edward island

Nova scotia

Whitehorse

Yellowknife

Victoria

Edmonton

Regina

Winnipeg

Iqaluit

Toronto

Québec City

Halifax

Charlottetown

Fredericton

St. John’s

VancouverCalgary Saskatoon

Montréal

Océan Atlantique

Baie d’ Hudson

Océan Arctique

Océan Pacifique

Territoires du nord-ouest

Colombie-britannique Terre-neuve-et-labrador

Nouveau-brunswick

Île-du-prince-édouard

Nouvelle-écosse

Québec

Ottawa

British ColumbiaLand of diversity

Green roof of Vancouver Convention Centre

Canada Events between Pacifi c and Atlantic

Welcome to Canada. We hope you enjoy reading the following selection of articles, and that they give you some inspiration for your next conference or incentive in Canada.

Canada offers a great alterna-tive as a meeting destination. Bordering both the Pacifi c and Atlantic Oceans, we are easily accessible from both the east and west coasts with convenient direct fl ights from many European Cities to Canada’s gateway cities. The vast country has a cosmopolitan and diverse culture with more than 43 ethnic groups and both French and English are the two offi cial languages. The Canadian Tourism Commission will also offer

complimentary site inspection programmes and support with air-fares for qualifi ed decision makers to come and visit. Please visit our new website www.meetings.canada.travel for further information to help plan your next conference, meeting or incentive in Canada. We look forward to seeing you in Canada soon. Best wishes!

Susan Frei, Director,

International Meetings & Incentives

Canadian Tourism Commission

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In VancouverVancouver is a dynamic, multicultural city set in a spectacular natural environ-ment. It consistently rates as one of the top 10 meeting destinations year after year – voted most popular city in North America for international meetings by ICCA three years in a row! Selected as one of the most liveable cities in the world, Vancouver is the proud host of the 2010 Olympic & Paralympic Winter Games.An icon on the downtown waterfront and defi nitely the city’s main asset when it comes to meetings, the Vancouver Convention Centre is renowned for service excellence, technical capabilities and distinctive West Coast Cuisine. Comprised of two uniquely designed buildings – Vancouver Convention Centre East and West – the Centre is centrally located, surrounded by ocean and mountains, and perfectly balanced by a vibrant, urban downtown inhabited by world-class restau-rants, hotels and shopping. Vancouver has become the third largest centre for the fi lm industry in North America -- hence its nickname, ‘Hollywood North’. With movies like the new ‘Night at the Museum: Battle at the Smithsonian’ and ‘Twilight: New Moon’ being shot here, word is out that Vancouver is picking up the glitter of its American Tinseltown sister. Visit some of the movie sites and get a behind the scenes adventure.One of the most distinctive buildings in Vancouver and ideal for corporate events is the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre. Founded in 1968 this astronomy museum offers various unusual locations for incen-tives, receptions or meetings including; the Virtual Voyages Full Motion simulator ride, the GroundStation Canada Theatre, the Cosmic Courtyard, a Star Theatre as well as the Gordon MacMillan Southam Observatory. A great way to get acquainted with Canada’s native population and history is

MOA! The Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia is acclaimed for its spectacular architecture and unique setting on the cliffs of Point Grey. A major expansion and renewal project was just completed, creating amazing new oppor-tunities for events and public enjoyment.

In VictoriaVictoria is a city that is full of life! As the capital city of British Columbia, Victoria is where old-world charm meets new-world experiences. Colourful gardens and herit-age architecture mix with soft adventure and unique culinary experiences. Boasting the mildest climate in Canada, Victoria is located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, just 30km from Vancouver’s main-land, where fresh ocean air and a warm, island welcome await.At the Victoria Conference Centre (VCC), an open plaza and magnifi cent entry foyer fi lled with First Nations art create a bright, welcoming environment indoors and out. A mix of multi-purpose function space is ideally suited for groups from 400-1,500. The Crystal Garden, a historic icon of the city originally built as a saltwater swim-ming pool, sits adjacent to the existing facility and provides an additional venue where heritage meets high tech.As a resort-style city centred around the picturesque Inner Harbour, most of Victoria’s conference facilities and accommodation properties are within easy walking distance and enjoy spectacular ocean and mountain views. The world-renowned Butchard Gardens and the Royal BC Museum headline a varied list of gardens, First Nations galleries, world-class golf courses, castles, wineries and other off-site venues, all perfect settings for west coast entertainment and experiences.Last but not least, incredible eco-adventures are literally steps away. Hop on a whale watching tour, head out on a salmon fi shing charter or kayak around the

harbour. Get active in Canada’s fi ttest city and cycling capital of Canada with a tour on two wheels or a coastal hike through old-growth rainforests. After a day of adventure, relax with a glass of local wine or craft ale, and fresh seafood and island cuisine.

In WhistlerWorld-renowned as one of North America’s top golf, mountain biking and skiing resort destinations, Whistler is nestled amongst the spectacular Coast Mountains of British Columbia. Located a scenic two-hour drive north of Vancouver

up the spectacular Sea to Sky Highway, Whistler has long established itself as a leading destination for conferences and events. New meeting locations and tourism offerings further add to the appeal of this destination which is the Host Mountain Resort for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games.In addition to the Whistler Conference Centre, the resort boasts an impressive range of meeting space among several branded hotels including Four Seasons, Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Westin Resort & Spa Whistler, Hilton, Delta and the Pan Pacifi c. And it’s worth noting Whistler knows how to play sustainable: it boasts some exciting new meeting locations, built with sustainable practices to suit their alpine setting.

Canada > British Columbia

From fi ve-star resorts to rustic backcountry cabins, laid back relaxation to white knuckle adventure, the possibilities are endless

Victoria, British Columbia (BC), World's tallest totem pole in Victoria

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Canada > Alberta

I can personally state it as I was invited on a press trip to discover the joys and jewels of Alberta. To tell you the truth, I had never been so far west in Canada. I knew Nova Scotia, Montréal and Québec, but my meetings adventures had never taken me this close to the Rocky Mountains. Not only did I discover a land of endless possibilities but I also came across some fascinating venues some of you people could easily use to make your meetings and incentives memorable. Whether it be the fascinating scenery, the laidbackness of the Albertans, the commitment to sustainability or the pure spaciousness of things, Canada is the place to be. Sadly I can only mention the highlights of my trips here, but believe me I could ramble on for pages.The Canadian Tourism Commission and Travel Alberta had carefully arranged the itinerary: to give me a strong taste of Albertan fl avours. My journey had to be done in several stages: a landing in and a quick tour of Calgary, a long and pleasant ride through the Rocky Mountains discover-ing Banff and its remarkably accessible mountain wilderness, Lake Louise’s breath-taking setting and incredible hues, and charming Jasper, a hike on a glacier and a climatic ending in Edmonton, the Festival city. By the end of the week, I must say I was out of breath, with all the super interesting

info I was fed with. Also, my eyes were sore, having seen so many beautiful things…

1001 ways to get togetherWhether you like the comfort of a confer-ence hotel, the secluded character of a luxurious resort or the fascinating features of a performing art centre, Alberta has everything to meet the demands of any meeting planner. Just outside Calgary I particularly liked Spruce Meadows. With its serene character, this picturesque complex has captivated the worldwide audience of the sport of show jumping and offers meetings space for up to 500 people. In Banff, I also grew fond of the inspirational Banff Centre where you can combine a meeting with excellence in the arts, leadership and mountain culture.Of course if you’re more into ‘traditional’ meeting space, the Telus Convention Centre, to which the Fairmont Palliser - and its wonderful ‘Pavilion’ directly linked to the station platform for gala dinners and receptions - is connected and BMO Centre in Calgary, as well as the Shaw Conference Centre and Northlands (which is about to be expanded) in Edmonton, are there to help you out!

1001 ways to have funCanadians in Alberta know how to hike, ski

and play golf. If you’re in search of team-building or social activities after a hard day of work, you will most of the time just need to get out of your hotel and you will fi nd yourself on a hiking trail, sometimes on a glacier, some other time on a ski slope. Whether it be on the mountains surrounding Banff or in the picturesque valley of Jasper, your group will most certainly be thrilled.In Calgary, I defi nitely have to mention the Calgary Stampede, which bills itself as the ‘Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth’. This large festival, exhibition and rodeo lasts for 10 days every summer from early to mid-July and might be an ideal time to hold a corporate meeting so your event really becomes one-of-a-kind. Heritage Park Historical Village also deserves to be pointed out: a living museum, it recreates early Western Canadian history through costumed interpreters, street theatre and over 150 buildings and exhibits. It could well be the perfect place to hold an exclusive gala dinner.

1001 ways to be breathtakenOne thing I have to mention here is the constant, outstanding sceneries that are everywhere to be found in Alberta. Just take out your camera and shoot whatever is in front of you and you will sure get a postcard-like picture. Everything is majes-tic, gigantic and worth a photo. At the end of your trip, you will even feel a bit blasé by all of this. You don’t say!Also everything is big in Alberta: the hotels, the roads, the cars, everything! It lends a kind of serenity to the overall atmosphere. I mention that because I feel it’s very impor-tant for a meeting or an incentive to be held in the most ideal environment possible. You can forget the occasional ‘feeling’ you can get in a city, here you can take a deep breath, thinking the sky is the limit!

Thanks to the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver and the constant, pro-active effort on the part of the Canadian Tourism Commission to put the country ‘out there’, Canada, as a whole, has gained a lot of visibility on the international scene lately. So now is defi nitely a good time for them to promote values that can easily be translated into the meetings industry. Indeed, when it comes to getting together, Canada has nothing to blush about.

Dreamy AlbertaAll the meeting space you can get

Shaw Conference Centre, EdmontonBanff, Alberta

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As one of the 2010 Culture Capitals of Canada, Winnipeg is a city where people truly can experience a wide array of world-class arts and culture on every corner every night of the week, from ballet to theatre to symphony and opera. Meanwhile, several galleries and muse-ums offer stunning and provocative local and international exhibits. Winnipeg will also be home to the much anticipated Canadian Museum for Human Rights. Opening in 2012 and located at The Forks, the site where Aboriginal tribes have gathered for thousands of years, it will be a beacon for Canadians and for people around the world to explore human rights and to promote dialogue, understanding, and respect.

Where to meetAs for meetings, Winnipeg Convention Centre, along with its many other

amenities, is the place to be: it offers over 48.000m2 of meeting space, for up to 7200 people! This ‘Go Green’ certifi ed facility combines state-of-the-art meetings technology with a wide array of distinct meeting rooms to offer meeting planners unparalleled service and fl exibility. Two meeting hotels also deserve some special attention: Victoria Inn Hotel and Convention Centre for groups of up to 1950 and The Fort Garry Hotel and Conference Centre, which can accommodate up to 1000 attendees. The city’s fi rst class, state-of-the-art multipurpose sports and entertainment facility, MTS Centre is located in the heart of downtown and, as a three-concourse facility, it provides confi gura-tions for large corporate events, trade shows and large-scale sports and entertainment spectacles. It’s also an ideal location for more intimate social and business gatherings.Winnipeg’s four universities and colleges also offer the perfect setting for a vari-ety of sized meetings and conferences. From western Canada’s oldest university, the University of Manitoba, to the hip and urban location of University of Winnipeg, to the park-like setting of the Canadian Mennonite University, you’re likely to fi nd the perfect university venue that will suit your needs best. And if you want something that your guests will

Imagine a city where arts and culture are celebrated on every corner, a city whose multiculturalism shines bright, a city with award-winning culinary creations from some of the best chefs in Canada and home to some of the country’s most celebrated fashion and jewellery designers. That’s Winnipeg, Manitoba – and it’s also a great place to meet.

Winnipeg (Manitoba)Celebrating art, culture… and meetings

The Fairmont hotelsIt looks like the Fairmont hotels were big sponsors of this trip. And good for me! With their very special locations, their outstand-ing architecture and sense of service, their in-house dog (I became friends with Sunny at Lake Louise) and their special mailbox system on which Marcel wrote extensively in HeadQuarters, they might well be meetings hotels par excellence.

+ The Fairmont Banff Springs: Situ-ated among the snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies, it stands as a world-renowned symbol of Canadian hospitality. Looking almost like a gigantic Bavarian castle in the Black Forest, the hotel offers 768 guestrooms and suites, all with impres-sive valley views or dramatic mountain views. As for meetings, it boasts more than 7,000 m2 of meeting and banquet space.

+ The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise: Nestled on the shores of postcard perfect Lake Louise - with the bluest water ever, just look at the picture! - the existing Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise architecture dates back to 1913 and was designed by Canadian Pacifi c Railway's chief architect Walter Painter. The meeting space available measures 3,500 m2 and there are even guides on-site if you want to take your group for a hike to see white goats and grizzli bears!

+ The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge: In the charming town of Jasper, it’s the ultimate lodge experience, boasting 446 rooms on 700-acres of luxury in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. There’s an on-site golf, countless possibilities in terms of activities, 2,500 m2 of meeting space ac-commodating up to 1,000 delegates with 17 function rooms, and even elks looking quite exhausted during the breeding season!

www.fairmont.com

Canada > Winnipeg (Manitoba)

Canadian Museum for Human RightsFairmont Banff Springs

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Canada > Winnipeg (Manitoba)

remember for years to come, you can try the many off-site venues that Winnipeg boasts. From Fort Gibraltar, a replica of a historic trading fort, to the rooftop of the Winnipeg Art Gallery to the Royal Canadian Mint, some of the city’s facilities are as unique as your needs. For instance, the interactive coin museum of the Royal Canadian Mint involves the visitor in unique learning activities including the ability to make your own souvenir coin and the opportunity to lift and hold a 99.99% pure gold bar worth over $400,000 CDN. Many of the venues are a testament to the history of the settlement of Winnipeg and all are a refl ection of prairie hospitality.As for accommodation, what Winnipeg has to offer is great, with over 6200 hotel rooms citywide, 2600 located downtown. Establishments throughout the city deliver superior meeting service, whether grand or intimate, one event or many. You’ll rest assured knowing that you’re receiving the best of Winnipeg’s hospitality when you tap into their strong sales and market-ing partnerships, whether through Team Winnipeg or -Winnipeg Options West.

When festival meets natureWinnipeg’s festivals are a true refl ection of the diversity, heritage and character of the community and have nurtured and encour-aged the city’s creative environment. With over 140 festival-days a year, every season is a reason to go out and celebrate. From the many, let’s mention the internationally celebrated Doors Open, the highly regarded TD Winnipeg International Jazz Festival and some of Canada’s oldest, most respected

and longest-running festivals, the Winnipeg Folk Festival, the Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival and Folklorama. Amongst many of Winnipeg’s musicians, one fi nds Neil Young, The Guess Who and Bachman-Turner Overdrive. The IMAX Theatre in Portage Place is Winnipeg’s premiere downtown entertainment venue featuring an exciting mix of 2D and 3D IMAX fi lms. Getting up close and personal with nature is also pos-sible in Winnipeg and that’s just great for pre- or post-meeting tours. Naturally beau-tiful, FortWhyte Alive – within Winnipeg’s city limits - offers breathtaking scenic views of untouched Prairie landscape. If you want to get out of the city, rest assured that Manitoba has a lot to offer too. Under the guidance of friendly interpret-ers, you can trek the nature trails of Oak Hammock Marsh, take a guided tour of the Marsh, go canoeing, view wildlife, watch a fi lm in the multimedia theatre, enjoy a meal in the café and check out the fun, interac-tive exhibits. For an experience of a lifetime, you can visit Churchill, commonly referred to as the ‘Polar Bear Capital’, for an unforgettable polar bear or beluga whale excursion. From thousands of fresh water lakes to sandy beaches to lush urban parks to over 30 golf courses located within city limits, the great outdoors simply abounds in Winnipeg. The weather too is attractive: according to Environment Canada, the province ranked fi rst for clearest skies year round and second for sunniest province in the winter and spring. Winnipeg is a city where people truly can experience a wide array of world-class arts and culture on every corner. The world-renowned Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Le Cercle Molière – the longest running theatre company in North America, Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Manitoba Theatre Centre - Canada’s fi rst English-language regional theatre, and Prairie Theatre Exchange are some of the many arts organisations in the city.

Getting up close and personal with nature is also possible in Winnipeg and that’s just great for pre- or post-meeting tours

OttawaNestled on the banks of several majestic rivers, Ottawa is one of the most beauti-ful capitals in the world. According to Forbes magazine, Ottawa is the 4th cleanest city in the world. The all-new Ottawa Convention Centre (opening April 2011) will be in the heart of this city and has a total of nearly 20,000 m2. A sweeping windowed façade will afford panoramic views of Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Confederation Square, and the National Arts Centre. Delegates will step outside and be just moments away from recreational paths and the ByWard

Ontario is Canada’s most populated province, largest economy and has everything from small towns and resorts on the edge of wilderness to upscale cosmopolitan centres. Over 250.000 freshwater lakes guarantee that any meeting or incentive can and probably will enjoy a blue setting. Ontario’s shield of arms boasts three golden maple leaves on a green background, just like the province’s meeting industry boasts three golden meeting destinations: Ottawa, Toronto and Niagara.

Ontario There’s no place like this

Churchill, Manitoba

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Canada > Ontario

‘Delegates to the36th G8 summit in June 2010, will enjoy the many meeting and incentive possibilities of Ontario’

OCAD, Toronto

Market shopping and restaurant district—not to mention 6,000 downtown hotel rooms. And the facility will be directly linked to the 180-store Rideau Centre, the 495-room Westin Ottawa, and ample indoor parking. Ottawa’s many museums provide ample opportunity for special events. The National Gallery of Canada is an architectural masterpiece and home to the country’s national collection of art, as well as a spectacular Great Hall (450pax) with a fabulous view of Parliament Hill. It also offers an Auditorium, seminar rooms, a lecture hall, and distinctive reception areas. The Canadian War Museum’s impressive LeBreton Gallery can host up to 600 people banquet style, plus the Museum’s Barney Danson Theatre offers a unique venue for presentations, dinners and receptions. Strathmere is a beauti-ful 200-acre estate with several outdoor meeting spaces, offering a creative, stimulating and relaxed environment for learning, while Mother Nature offers the chirping birds, blue skies, and warm sum-mer breezes.

TorontoIn the language of the Huron First Nation, Toronto means ‘meeting place’ and a fi tter name couldn’t have been found. Here you’ll fi nd unparalleled service, easy access, an excellent convention infrastructure with conveniently located meeting facilities, exemplary accommo-dations, stunning architecture, gas-tronomy, art and attractions… And that’s just the beginning! The city is easily accessible being the Canadian gateway for international travel with 76 airlines

offering international fl ights to and from Toronto’s Pearson International Airport. The convention facilities in Canada’s largest city are expanding at a remarkable rate. To ensure the city maintains its place as a key destination for major congresses, four con-vention facilities in the Toronto area – the

Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Direct Energy Centre, Toronto Congress Centre and International Centre have all completed signifi cant renovations and growth. Most recently, the Direct Energy Centre unveiled a $47-million CDN expansion, the Allstream Centre – a conference facility with 160.000 square feet (14.8644m2) of ballroom and meeting space. The unique nature of Toronto as a meet-ing destination extends far beyond the downtown core. Regions to the east, west and north offer their own special feel. To the east, small town charm and more intimate amenities complement the nearby lake, public parkland and downtown, while the west offers close proximity to Pearson Airport, a diverse cultural scene and simple commuting options to the city core. Experience the wonder of Niagara Falls and the Niagara Wine region with over 120 wineries producing the international award-winning Ontario Icewines – all within a 90 minute drive.

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Rideau Canal, Ottawa

OCAD, Toronto

Toronto

Parliament, Ottawa

Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto

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Canada > Ontario

NiagaraThat brings us to the third but certainly not last destination of Ontario. The New Niagara Falls is a true Canadian wonder for meetings, conferences and events for groups of 10 to 7000 at every price point while highlighting the best views of the American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls.Soon to open in April 2011 is the 26.000m2 Niagara Convention and Civic Centre that includes a free-span exhibition hall; a distinctive ballroom; and many more fl exible meeting and breakout spaces. The convention centre is located just 500 meters from the Horseshoe Falls, allow delegates to enjoy the local attractions after the business day is complete.The Niagara Region’s offering of offsite venues is extensive. Enjoy local cuisine under the stars or within a barrel cellar at an award winning winery; the thrill of the Niagara River rapids on the Whirlpool Jet Boats; friendly competition at any of the championship golf courses; games of chance or a show at an area casino; one of the many lush gardens along the Niagara Parkway. Local theatre includes a vast array from the works of Bernard Shaw at the Shaw Festival Theatre to the Las Vegas-style magician, Greg Frewin.

As one of North America’s most popular destinations, Niagara Falls boasts over 5000 upscale hotel rooms: international brands and smaller boutique hotels for that extra incentive touch.

Québec is defi nitely special. Not only because of the predominantly French-speaking population or its status as the largest Canadian province, but also because its two main cities have estab-lished a solid reputation as congress destinations. Additionally, the Québecois countryside offers plenty of incentive opportunities.

Québec CityEuropean charm, history, culture, and adventure await you in this four-century-old but ever-so-exciting city! In Québec City you have the freedom to do and try practically everything. The city is home to a world-class tourism infrastructure providing a full range of visitor amenities and comforts.Conventions, business meetings, and incentive trips on every scale are a natural for Québec City, with its

17,250 room lodging capacity. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel, a boutique hotel with its own special character, or a resort hotel right near downtown, Québec City combines North American comfort and effi ciency with European charm.Meeting rooms in the major hotels have convention facilities that can easily host several hundred participants in comfortable and welcoming surround-ings. And for major events, the Québec City Convention Center and ExpoCité Exhibition Center are just what you are looking for.Québec City is a thriving business center well served by an international airport, rail links, and an effi cient highway network. Train and plane connections are very convenient, with dozens of daily fl ights to and from Jean Lesage International Airport just 16 km from downtown.Québec City is proud of its 400-year history. The only walled city north of Mexico, it proudly displays a history where French and British infl uences mingle and interweave. From the fortifi cations encircling the Old City to the Citadel standing guard over the St. Lawrence, the Martello towers, and the Parliament Building where Québec’s

Innovative, creative and culture-driven Québec is an irresistible mix combining traditional charm and sophisticated vibes. The province is also a crossroads for trade, business and fi nance over the centuries and is recognised worldwide for its cutting-edge research and development.

Québec A unique combination of old and new

Adventure among the Niagara falls

Eagle Canyon Bridge, Thunder BayHorseshoe Falls, Niagara

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wQuébec

political life plays out, the city is home to a myriad of treasures that will delight history buffs.Included on UNESCO’s list of world herit-age sites, the historic fortifi ed section of the city evokes the charm of the old country with its narrow, winding streets and profusion of shops, museums, and other attractions.

MontréalMontréal ranked fi rst in North America for international meetings in 2009, according to the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), a tes-tament to the city’s expertise and service, and ability to accommodate any group size. The Palais des Congrès (Convention Centre) offers the latest in technology and services in the revitalised Quartier international, between downtown and the Old Port. Other facilities are within walking distance of hotels that include American and international chains, as well as recent boutique-style buildings. Of the 26,500 room total, 15,000 are down-town and 4,000 connect directly with the Convention Centre via the Underground Pedestrian Network walkways. No matter where you turn, it seems that this city’s raison d’être is to celebrate life. The term ‘block party’ takes on a new

meaning here, as thousands converge on traffi c-free streets to enjoy the colour-ful summer line-up of performances. Formula 1 fans get their fi ll of speed and high-performance engines in June; jazz lovers keep time to the music of their favourite artists at the 11-day Jazz Fest, and comedy buffs can indulge in a full month of gut-busting good times with the Just for Laugh’s hilarious line-up. This city is where art meets festival fun – 24/7. Films, beer, food and sports are also on the star-studded events calendar.Montréal has a cosmopolitan reputation other cities yearn for. Undeniably, its 360 years of history are at the root; the city has been in turn a French set-tlement and a British stronghold. Today, the confl uence of cultures from around the globe continues to leave its mark on Montréal’s multifaceted and spirited character. For a meeting with the city’s past, stroll the cobblestone streets of Old Montréal and admire its architecture; the area is now home to boutique hotels and award-winning addresses that bring luxury to new heights. Its galleries, churches, squares and quiet spaces make it only one of many fascinating neighbourhoods worth exploring on foot.

7 good reasons for choosing Québec1. Accommodation and fi rst-rate

facilities. Québec City and Montréal are the perfect venues for conferences of all sizes. Both cities’ hotel and service network enjoy an envi-able reputation worldwide.

2. Authentic charm. The area’s European appeal and North American lifestyle, complete with a storied history, thriving arts scene, and vibrant French-speaking culture, make it truly one of a kind.

3. Easy to get to. The region can be easily accessed by highway, train and air.

4. Nature on your doorstep. Parks, wildlife reserves, and scenic attractions are minutes away, with a host of outdoor activities available all year round.

5. Arts and entertainment. The cultural agenda of Montréal and Québec City are literally action-packed.

6. A once-in-a-lifetime experience. Nowhere else in the world will you experience dazzling colours, vibrant lifestyle, and everything in between!

7. Dining at its fi nest. Often called the gourmet capital of North America, the region is also tops for casual food, not to mention sidewalk cafés, bistros, and wine and cheese!

Canada > Québec

Montreal, Quebec Montréal

Québec City Convention CentreSnowmobiling Quebec Canadian Museum of Civilization, Gatineau

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Canada > Nova Scotia & Newfoundland

Nova Scotia is a province located on Canada’s southeastern coast. Its capital, Halifax, is the major economic centre of Atlantic Canada. The province of Newfoundland and Labrador actually comprises two parts: mainland Labrador and the island of Newfoundland.

Nova ScotiaNova Scotia has long been a centre for artistic and cultural excellence. Halifax has emerged as the leading cultural centre in the Atlantic region, as well as a multi-cultural municipality, ready to welcome international delegates.The heart of Halifax has more than 3,500 hotel rooms. Almost 1/3 of these

are conveniently connected by an enclosed pedway system to our premier meeting facility, the World Trade & Convention Centre. Halifax has the feel of a small town and the amenities of a big city, so getting around is easy and hassle-free. Whether serving 10 people or 1,000 people, the service, and food and beverage offerings are fi rst class. Being centrally located in downtown Halifax also gives delegates a chance to step outside during a break and enjoy the city’s delights.Halifax is home to many performance venues, namely Halifax Metro Centre (a 10.000 seat entertainment facility), the Rebecca Cohn Auditorium, the Neptune Theatre, and The Music Room. Major cultural attractions include the Symphony Nova Scotia, the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia and Neptune Theatre. Unique venues include the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, where delegates can participate in the ‘Soldier for a Day’ incentive programme alongside kilted 78th Highlanders. Take a cruise around the Halifax Harbour aboard a fully-catered

Tall Ship or have a cocktail reception at The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, located on the Halifax waterfront, where guests can mingle amongst traditional Nova Scotian wooden vessels. Nightly live music, renowned restaurants and special events ensure that delegates are entertained after hours. A wide variety of festivals celebrate the local music, history, culture, arts, food and wine of the region. The Atlantic Film Festival, The Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo, The Multicultural Festival, periodic Tall Ship events, the Nova Scotia Fall Wine Festival and Shakespeare by the Sea are just a few of the highlights of a packed events calendar year-round. From glorious green springs to the vibrant colours of fall and the warmest winters in Canada, Halifax and Nova Scotia offer numerous things to do, see and experience year-round. Whether it is a round of golf, the one-of-a-kind scenery at Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse (one of the most photographed and well known lighthouses in the world), wine tasting in Grand Pré or a coastal drive to Lunenburg, you’re never far away from the ocean in Nova Scotia.With US pre-clearance, Halifax Stanfi eld International Airport has direct air access to 9 primary US cities, with direct air

The Atlantic Ocean defi nes Canada’s east-ernmost provinces. Thus, participants of any conference, meeting or other event in these two provinces will surely be inspired by the spray of the sea, the fresh air and the cry of the free seabirds. IF that won’t do it, the excellent facilities certainly will.

Nova Scotia & NewfoundlandAtlantic Canada

Halifax HarbourNewfoundland

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access to Frankfurt, London, Heathrow and Gatwick, Reykjavik and France, Iceland and the Caribbean, and of course, across Canada. The Halifax harbour is the second largest deepest natural harbour in the world and welcomes more than 250,000 passengers annually from 20 cruise lines.

Newfoundland & LabradorWhere else in North America could you see ten thousand year old icebergs cross paths with migratory humpback whales? Newfoundland and Labrador of course! The province’s capital, St. John’s, has the look and feel of a larger city, but with its colourful houses, history and warm friendly people it leaves delegates with a unique sense of place that they can’t experience anywhere else. Corporates are attracted by the ever growing Oil and Gas industry and oil related conferences and meetings follow. This lucrative indus-try has improved the economy of the region and thus also the infrastructure. More hotels have been built and existing hotels are increasing in size and are constantly making improvements to their facilities to meet market demands. St. John’s is a meeting planners delight. Groups feel like they ‘own’ or ‘take over’ the city when they are there. With over 25000m2 of meeting space and over 1,000 hotel rooms in the downtown core, groups of up to 2,000 can experience a city that not only extends a welcome sign

in their store windows to groups, but they know who you are and why you’re here. It’s a growing city with the feel of small town hospitality that invites you to relax and experience all it has to offer. There is no such thing as an accidental tourist in Newfoundland. One would have to choose to come here to experience all the island has to offer. There is an increase of about 15% in delegate attend-ance for conferences that hold their event in Newfoundland and Labrador in summer as it gives delegates an oppor-tunity to visit a place they have never been before but a place they have always heard about and wanted to experience. Through conference surveys, delegates attending a conference in St. John’s come early or stay late to visit the rural areas and maximize the opportunity to explore the region. Some delegates bring families and make it a family vacation. Why choose to attend a meeting in St. John’s… why not? Attending a meeting or conference here allows you to taste, feel and experience a destination that leaves you with a sense of longing for more. This explains why we see so many delegates returning to vacation with families in future years.The air access is also a bonus! Direct air access from Europe through Heathrow Airport via Air Canada. St. John’s is only a 5 hour fl ight from the UK and the fl ight schedule offers excellent connection times from European gateways.

Nova Scotia is a province located on Canada’s southeastern coast. Its capital, Halifax, is the major economic centre of Atlantic Canada

Step into CanadaBring your events to life!Did you know you can get to Canada in less than 5 hours? That it’s the second largest country in the world? In every city you’re only steps from good food, great views and a breath of nature’s fresh air? • Toast Niagara Falls with ice wine, shuck oysters in Prince

Edward Island and take a bite of Alberta beef • Party. There are festivals galore all year round,

including the largest jazz festival in the world in Montréal, the Toronto International Film Festival and the Edmonton Fringe Festival

• Witness a hat-trick Canadian style at an ice hockey game. • See the world’s longest tides in Nova Scotia and New runswick,

the Midnight Sun in Nunavut, the Northern Lights in the Northwest Territories and polar bears and belugas in Manitoba

• Meet the people, discover Acadian culture, aboriginal history in, follow the Viking Trailand walk through one of our cosmopolitan cities – you’ll hear hello in too many languages to count.

On the practical side, you get help fi nding top notch meeting facilities for 50 or 5,000, world-class accommodations, gourmet dining and plenty to keep your delegates entertained. The exchange rate is moving in the CAD’s favour and there are great deals all over Canada.

ContactIn North America: Susan Frei, Director International Meetings and IncentivesT. +1 703 825 1134 - Frei.Susan@ctc-cct.cawww.meetings.canada.travelIn Europe: Roger Bradley - Axis Travel Marketing LtdT. +44 208 686 2300 - roger@axistravelmarketing.com

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