Canada

Montreal is the most European city in North America — French-speaking, festival-obsessed, and blessed with a food scene that rivals any major city. Old Montreal's cobblestone streets and basilica, the Plateau's colorful staircases, and the underground city are highlights. The bagels are better than New York's (don't @ us), and poutine is a religion.

Vancouver is where mountains meet the Pacific — snowboard in the morning, kayak in the afternoon, and eat world-class sushi for dinner. Stanley Park, Granville Island, and the Capilano Suspension Bridge are highlights, but the city's real draw is its setting. The food scene reflects its Asian-Pacific crossroads, especially in Richmond's Chinese restaurants.

Banff National Park is the Canadian Rockies at their finest — turquoise lakes (Lake Louise, Moraine Lake), towering peaks, glaciers, and abundant wildlife. The charming town of Banff sits right inside the park, and the Icefields Parkway connecting to Jasper is one of the world's most scenic drives. World-class skiing in winter, incredible hiking in summer.