North America offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers: Just to name a few the countries involved are Canada, United State Of America and Mexico. Thus, it is rather difficult to state unequivocally that one country is the best for traveling; every country has something special to offer to the tourists and everybody has something that they find interesting in each of them. So, let us then take a look at each country in question in order to help you decide which trip is going to be perfect for you and your preferences.
United States
The United States of America is often thought of as the highest tourist destination because of its size and the availability of numerous opportunities to experience different cultures, languages, landmarks, climatic conditions, and even the odd dude with an axe
Pros:
- Diverse landscapes: From the ocean shores of Hawaii to the snow capped Rockies of Colorado, the hot deserts of Arizona to the green dense forests of New England.
- Iconic cities: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and San Francisco boast of fine dining, entertainment and cultural activities that you will find across the globe.
- National Parks: Yellowstone national park, Yosemite national park, Grand Canyon and so on display natural sceneries.
- Cultural melting pot: All cultures and all types of food around the world.
Cons:
- Tends to be costly, especially where it is for the gross value.
- Large distances may mean that many flights have to be taken or a long car drive may be inevitable.
Notable Destinations:
1. New York City: The “Big Apple” offers world-famous attractions like Times Square, Central Park, and Broadway shows.
2. San Francisco: Known for the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and its vibrant tech scene.
3. New Orleans: Unique for its French and Creole influences, jazz music, and delicious cuisine.
4. Yellowstone National Park: Home to geothermal features like Old Faithful and diverse wildlife.
5. Hawaii: A tropical paradise with beautiful beaches, volcanoes, and rich Polynesian culture.
Canada
Canada is famous for scenic views, being hospitable and ethnically diverse.
Pros:
– Breathtaking landscapes: Mountain ranges; along the coastal strips and the snow-capped Lakes
– Safe and welcoming atmosphere
– Diverse cities: Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal offer unique cultural experiences
– Outdoor adventures: Skiing, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities abound
Cons:
– The season can become rather cooler especially in the winter season
– Some areas may be less accessible due to remote locations
Notable Destinations:
1. Banff National Park: Located in the Rocky Mountains, offering stunning lakes, mountains, and wildlife.
2. Toronto: Canada’s largest city, known for its diverse neighborhoods and the CN Tower.
3. Quebec City: Rich in history with its charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
4. Vancouver: A modern city surrounded by mountains and sea, known for its excellent quality of life.
5. Prince Edward Island: Famous for its red-sand beaches, rolling hills, and the setting of “Anne of Green Gables.”
Mexico
Mexico offers a perfect blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches.
Pros:
– Rich history and culture: Ancient Mayan and Aztec ruins, colonial architecture
– Beautiful beaches: Cancun, Tulum, and Los Cabos offer world-class coastal experiences
– Delicious cuisine: Authentic Mexican food and vibrant local markets
– Generally more affordable than the US or Canada
Cons:
– Safety concerns in some areas (though many tourist destinations are quite safe)
– Language barrier may be more pronounced for non-Spanish speakers.
Notable Destinations:
1. Mexico City: The capital city offers a mix of modern and ancient, with world-class museums and nearby Teotihuacan pyramids.
2. Chichen Itza: One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this ancient Mayan city is a must-visit.
3. Tulum: Combines beautiful beaches with well-preserved Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
4. Oaxaca: Known for its indigenous cultures, colonial architecture, and amazing cuisine.
5. Guanajuato: A colorful colonial city with a rich mining history and vibrant arts scene.
Choosing the Best Country for You
The “best” country to visit in North America depends on your personal interests, budget, and travel style. Here are some factors to consider:
- Nature Lovers: If you’re primarily interested in natural wonders and outdoor activities, the United States and Canada offer a wide range of options, from the Grand Canyon to the Canadian Rockies.
- History Buffs: Mexico is hard to beat for ancient history with its Mayan and Aztec ruins. For more recent history, all three countries offer interesting sites from colonial times to the modern era.
- Beach Enthusiasts: Mexico is famous for its beautiful beaches, but don’t overlook the coastal areas of the US (like Florida or Hawaii) or Canada (like the coast of British Columbia).
- Urban Explorers: All three countries offer exciting cities to explore. The US has the most famous global cities, Canada offers a mix of North American and European influences, and Mexico provides vibrant urban centers with rich cultural heritage.
- Foodies: Each country offers unique culinary experiences. Mexico is renowned for its cuisine, the US offers an incredible variety of international and fusion foods, and Canada has a growing food scene with influences from around the world.
- Budget Travelers: Generally, Mexico tends to be the most affordable, followed by parts of the US and Canada. However, costs can vary greatly depending on the specific location and type of travel.
Conclusion
In summary, all the countries mentioned in this article present something special that can make them interesting to visit. It will therefore depend on what one is looking to get out of the travel experience, the time of the year when travelling, or personal preferences.
In another related article, 5 Ways to Experience Native American Culture