You may have jokingly (or perhaps, literally) considered a move here as of late–but as it turns out, there are many reasons to escape to the Great White North. The country celebrates its 150th birthday this year, and is full of exciting perks as a result. Montréal (which turns 375 this year) is flexing its muscles as one of the world's most exciting culinary scenes, influenced by its European roots and infused with flavors from its diverse, multi-cultural population.
Don't miss out on a visit to Le Filet or Les 400 Coups while you're in town, and look out for Marconi and Joël Robuchon's new Canadian outpost that are both set to open this year. If you're more of a nature lover, head to Banff for one of the most epic bike trails you'll ever ride. Before you venture out, be sure to pick up a Discovery Pass, which gives visitors free access to any of the vast country's national parks (there are over 200 of them!) including Banff and Prince Edward Island. If it's art you're after, Toronto's Museum of Contemporary Artwill open the doors to its expanded location this year, along with the unveiling of The Bentway, their answer to Manhattan's High Line.
Where to Stay: Fairmont boasts 18 hotels across the country with one soon to open in Montréal, and each is more impressive than the next. Montréal is home to a Ritz Carlton as well as Hotel Le St. James and the St. Paul Hotel, which are both boutique in size, but the former boasts a grander feel while the latter is sleek and contemporary. In Toronto, the Park Hyatt, Four Seasons and Shangri-La are pretty much foolproof.
When to Go: Summertime promises the best climate to comfortably explore and enjoy the outdoors. Fall's vibrant colors will amaze you, and its balmy temperatures may be your preference for hiking and biking. Early September is for art lovers–that's when the Toronto International Film Festival takes place. The dead of winter and springtime will likely be too cold for most, but those who are open to braving borderline negative temperatures will no doubt enjoy cozying up in Montréal's chicest dining spots and cocktail lounges.