First introduced in 1858, the Canadian dollar (CAD) is Canada’s official currency. Its primary symbol is $, though variations like CA$, Can$, and C$ are also used to differentiate it from other dollar-based currencies.
Official Language SpokenAs per the 2016 census, English is the mother tongue of 56.0% of Canadians, while French accounts for 21.4%. Overall, 86.2% of Canadians have proficiency in English, and 29.8% have proficiency in French.
Population40.1 million (2023)
Weather and ClimateCanada's climate varies significantly across its regions. In much of the country, especially in the interior and Prairie provinces, winters are long, extremely cold, and often snowy. Most regions experience a continental climate, characterized by a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with cold winters and warm summers.
Vancouver, a vibrant west coast seaport in British Columbia, is one of Canada’s most densely populated and ethnically diverse cities. Renowned as a popular filming destination, it is surrounded by stunning mountains and boasts a thriving arts, theater, and music culture. The Vancouver Art Gallery features notable works by regional artists, while the Museum of Anthropology showcases exceptional collections of First Nations artifacts.
Whistler stands out for its world-class skiing and snowboarding at Whistler Blackcomb, where you can explore two expansive mountains and experience the slopes that hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics. Renowned as North America's premier ski resort, it offers unparalleled terrain and breathtaking alpine scenery.
Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is located on the rugged southern tip of Vancouver Island. Known for its abundant parkland, the city is a haven for outdoor activities. Its British colonial heritage is reflected in its Victorian architecture, including the grand Craigdarroch Castle. Among its many formal gardens, the renowned Butchart Gardens stands out with 55 acres of vibrant floral displays, statuary, water features, and a charming carousel.