Canada

Ok. This one ain't cheap. But there is no better way to appreciate the scale and magnitude of the endless 'wild' that is B.C. than travelling by float plane. An eagle's eye view is the way God meant British Columbia to be seen, so why fight it? Even if only using the plane from Vancouver to Nanaimo or Victoria instead of the ferry, a float plane ride will easily be one of those Top 10 experiences you will tell your grandkids about. There are also sightseeing tours available out of the Vancouver waterfront. There are a couple of things in life where you have to splurge, even if you're on a tight budget. This is one of those times.

The spectacular aurora borealis is a natural phenomenon best viewed in the dead of winter and far away from city lights. Not surprising, as Churchill's tundra provides both requirements, its one of the best places in the world to view nature's own theatre unfold. With little pollution, clear night skies and comfortable accommodation, you won't have to stress or freeze to see the lights. Plexiglass 'aurora domes' keep you relatively warm while you wait for the show to start, but if you want to be surrounded by the dancing sky and hear the crackling of the lights overhead, contact one of the local operators to take you to their cabins by snowmobile. They often provide the necessary clothing, and layered with as much... animal as possible, you're sure to stay warm in the 40 below zero temperature while the hot cocoa will keep you satiated. The best time to view the lights are in winter from November to March. 2012-2013 is apparently the prime period to view them so get cracking and book your flight from Winnipeg, Manitoba's capital.

The small town of Fernie is nestled into the foot of the Canadian Rockies, 300 km southwest of Alberta. Fernie was put on the map many years ago by its coal mining trade, but since the 1990s, it has gained much attention for another natural resource. During winter, the population increases as herds of passionate snow enthusiasts migrate to this non-commercialised wonderland to search out its world renowned "champagne powder". Fernie's ski resort is often voted as one of the top 10 resorts in North America, but somehow it has managed to keep its small town charm. All visitors here seem to blend into the local lifestyle, things are laid back and relaxed. For those serious about their riding/skiing and with proper avalanche training, the real action in Fernie is its backcountry. There is plenty of companies offering trips to experience untouched bowls and to make all your friends jealous with photos of you chest deep in powder.

If googling the words "suspension bridge" and "Vancouver", you'll most certainly come up with the über-touristy Capilano Suspension Bridge. The thing is, no local would be caught dead visiting the place. It's just for bus loads of conventioneers and cruise-ship day-trippers. Locals, instead, head to the much more serene (and frankly better) Lynn Canyon suspension bridge. Perhaps not quite as high or quite as long, the bridge in Lynn Canyon park however is much cooler. The added bonus of it being FREE can't hurt either. Beyond the bridge, some excellent, easy access hiking trails (namely the Baden-Powell trail) offer opportunities to further explore wonderful rainforest in what is essentially downtown Vancouver.

The old part of Québec City is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is the only remaining walled city in North America other than in Mexico. Walk through any of the four gates that surround the original town and feel transported into another time and place. Located high on a bluff overlooking the Saint Lawrence river, Vieux Québec is best enjoyed by foot. Alive with history, Basse-ville contains the 17th century Notre-Dame-des-Victoires church and at its heart, Place Royale. The historical market square is surrounded by restored 17th and 18th century buildings, housing chic boutiques and quaint restaurants for you to explore. After taking in the many museums and getting lost in the narrow lanes of the Old Town, enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride to rest your tired feet while continuing your Belle Province tour. Don't forget to visit the impressive parliament building located just outside the city's walls and the 22 bronze statues of men and women who played an important role in the province's history.

If running off a list of 'beach holiday destinations', Canada would probably be near the bottom of the list. But with more coastline than any other country on Earth, it would be logical that Canada has some darn fine beaches. And they don't come much finer than those in Pacific Rim National Park on the West Coast of Vancouver Island. The village of Tofino was once, not long ago, a tiny rain-soaked fishing village at the end of the Trans-Canada Highway. But these days, the ultra-cool surfer hippie scene has taken over. The waves, along the seemingly endless stream of pristine beaches, are finally attracting world wide attention. Although the summer is the busiest season, a visit during the wintery rainy season can be cool too. And storm watchers are rewarded with some of the wildest weather conditions.