{"data":{"id":"38cd0a5a-d5ed-4949-a42e-e16576caecb2","updated_at":"2024-04-08T18:51:39Z","template_id":"73046548-86ec-431a-aca0-75b53bc936f3","localized":{"blocks":[{"id":"3db2b0b7-120e-4d32-bbac-fd23370ad743","kind":"richtext","template_id":null,"content_html":"

I have been fortunate to discover some of the most beautiful cities in Canada and the U.S.A., where you can explore in a few days, a few weeks, or perhaps you are looking for a place to settle for a few months. I would like to share with you my seven top choices and describe for you what is so charming and appealing about each:

Montreal and Quebec City, Quebec

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Quebec may be even more popular in the winter than in the summer, because of the world-renowned ski resorts such as Mont Tremblant and Monte-Sainte-Anne.

In the summer, people enjoy walking around the quaint cobblestone streets in Old Montreal and Quebec City and shopping on Saint Catherine Street in Montreal.

Travelers flock to Quebec for their decadent French cuisine and culture. Quebec houses many outdoor cafes and restaurants, serving the most delicious foods, such as crepes, maple taffy, poutine, tourtiere meat pie, and sugar pie. French is the primary language spoken, so it is wise to brush up on your linguistics before visiting.

Victoria and Vancouver Island, British Columbia

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Victoria is the largest city on Vancouver Island and is home to the glorious Butchart Gardens, Beacon Hill Park, and Fisherman’s Wharf. If you do not mind rain, you will experience some of the most beautiful sunsets and rugged beauty in the world.

The Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, like me, who enjoy walking the beaches, hiking along the Pacific Rim Trail and national park, or going whale watching.

Vancouver Island is popular any time of the year, but particularly in the cooler months because temperatures are milder than many other parts of Canada.

St. John’s and Newfoundland

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St. John’s is the oldest and most easterly city in North America. It is located on the island of Newfoundland and is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. It is known for live music on the legendary George Street, vibrant coloured homes, with the nickname jellybean row, and stunning views from cliffs, such as Signal Hill National Historic site.

A perfect day in St. John’s can be spent walking to see the sights of Signal Hill, hiking along the East Coast Trail, visiting the quaint town of Quidi Vidi, and taking a boat tour to Cape Spear.

We found the residents to be the kindest and friendliest community in the world. In fact, a Broadway play titled Come from Away was developed that showcases the wonderful Newfoundlanders.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

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Hilton Head is known for its world-class golf courses and coastal beauty. If you enjoy biking like me, Hilton Head is a haven for bike enthusiasts. I enjoyed biking on the 12-mile-long stretch of beach, as well as along the 60 miles of connecting trails that take you around the entire island. In fact, most people choose to bike in Hilton Head, rather than drive.

After an active day of golfing or biking, there are a multitude of top-rated restaurants and eating establishments to choose from, including all of our favourite chains, such as the Keg, and my favourite, Carrabba’s.

Naples, Florida

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Naples often makes the lists of the top places to retire to and I fully understand why. I consider Naples to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The beaches are stunning, golf courses are plentiful, and shopping and dining is superb.

There are several shopping centres and over 100 eating establishments at luxurious complexes such as The Waterside Shops, The Village Shops, Mercato, and along Fifth Avenue. Or for if you are more of a bargain shopper like me, there is Miromar Outlets.

After a morning at the beach or golfing, strolling through Tin City or along Fifth Avenue, is the perfect way to spend the rest of your day or evening.

Nashville, Tennessee

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If you are a country music fan, then you have to visit Nashville. In addition to the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium, Broadway Street is lined with bars and restaurants that offer non-stop live music starting at 11 am every day.

We saw some of the best non-famous country musicians at the local bars. The famous country musicians such as Blake Shelton, Jason Aldean, and Luke Bryan opened multistory spectacular bars, many with rooftop patios.

Nashville is very walkable, with several quaint neighbourhoods to explore including The Gultch, Hillsboro, in addition to Music Row.

San Francisco, California

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San Francisco is one of the most picturesque cities with the Golden Gate Bridge being the focal attraction. There is so much to see and do that you will need several days to ensure that you do not miss anything.

Fisherman’s Wharf is the best place to stop for a delicious seafood lunch and watch the seals. We enjoyed biking over the Golden Gate Bridge to the quaint town of Sausalito.

Many travelers enjoy spending a day touring Alcatraz. My favourite excursion was to the Napa and Sonoma Valley to explore the magnificent vineyards and wine tasting.

It is my opinion that California wines are the best in the world. Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy a day spent at Yosemite National Park.

I guarantee that you will find endless activities to do and plenty to love, after exploring any of these seven beautiful destinations.

Happy travels!

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About the Author:

Denise Svajlenko retired from her lengthy corporate career in Human Resources and now spends her time fulfilling her passions and purpose by writing, travelling the world, and travel consulting. Her stories/articles have appeared in women’s and lifestyle magazines including Chatelaine, Real Women, Best Years, Sixtyandme.com, and Travel magazines including ‘the Cottager, Family Camping, Florida Travel, as well as newspapers including The Toronto Star, The Globe and Mail, and This Week. Denise has published her memoir titled, Evolving: My Lessons of Self-Discovery, and has a story featured in the recently published book titled Chicken Soup for the Soul: Too Funny. You can reach Denise through her website.

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