Honest thoughts on Canada after my first visit

First time in Canada and I tried to approach it with open eyes rather than preconceptions. Banff was the base and a good one — central, manageable, and with strong food options including the best Montreal bagels I've ever had. Old Quebec was the big set piece and fully justified the trip.

Two things worth knowing: vast distances require internal flights, which is more of a factor than some guides acknowledge. But also: stunning national parks, which I'd never read about and turned out to be a genuine pleasure. Solid first impression — I'd return.