North America

Definitions differ, but for our purposes, North America is Canada, the United States and Mexico – a vast area that stretches from within 500 miles of the North Pole, down past the Tropic of Cancer and well on the way to the Equator. That’s some 10,300 kilometres (6,370 miles).

To many, North America is dominated by the US, and for understandable reasons: Those fantastic, world famous national parks, the vibrant cities, the exciting if controversial history, and the cultural scene from high art to pop music which is loved around the world. It’s little wonder that the US is a magnet for travellers.

But let’s pause. National parks? Canada has no fewer than 38 immense national parks of jaw-dropping beauty; Mexico has 67, taking in coral reefs, volcanoes and unsurpassed opportunities for both sport and solitude.

Vibrant cities? The US is definitely hard to beat on that score. But pause again. Vancouver is consistently placed in the top five cities in the world for liveability; Toronto is one of the fastest-growing cities in North America, and bilingual Montreal has been voted the best city in which to be a student. And let’s not forget Mexico City, one of the liveliest urban centres on the planet, or Guadalajara, a byword for cosmopolitan swagger.

History and culture? We’re steeped in US history and arts scene thanks to countless films and TV shows, but civilisation in Mexico goes back three millennia – now that’s history. And the country boasts such cultural giants as Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, and the writer Carlos Fuentes. Both Mexico and Canada are rich in indigenous art, and Toronto and Montreal in particular, are home to thriving and innovative contemporary arts scenes.

So yes, the US soaks up much of the attention, for many good reasons. But don’t overlook the other worlds of adventure and excitement that lie both north and south of its borders.