• Make Canada your next last-minute vacationo' canada image by Kathryn Palmer from Fotolia.com
  
  Canada is a vast country full of exiting places to visit. The options are nearly limitless, whether you prefer the great Canadian wilderness, or the sophistication of Canada's cities. Romantic destinations are abundant, as are the opportunities for memorable family vacations with the kids. For great last-minute vacations to Canada, make sure your passport is in order (if traveling from outside the country).
  
  

Eastern Canada

• Quebec is the only province in Canada whose official language is French, instead of English. For this reason, visitors can convince themselves that they really are in Europe. The area near the Saint Lawrence River is rich in culture and excitement. The architecture is fascinating, the population is friendly and the means of entertainment are virtually endless. Be sure not to miss "Old Quebec", the historic part of Quebec City. Excellent walking tours are available, or visitors can acquire a walking map and explore on their own. For a last-minute trip, Quebec is easily accessed by car or bus from the northeastern United States. The Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport is conveniently located just 20 minutes from downtown Quebec.
  
  

Western Canada

• The jewel of Western Canada is Vancouver, located in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. This city has been booming with industry, up to and beyond the hosting of the 2010 Winter Olympics. When all the hype of the Games died down Vancouver became an excellent area to visit. Its proximity to the nearby ski resort of Whistler makes it an excellent wintertime destination. The Vancouver night life is particularly rich and exciting.
  
  For those wishing for a more family-oriented vacation, Vancouver's coastal entertainment includes several excellent options for whale watching. For those with romance in mind, visit the Nitobe Memorial Garden, a traditional Japanese Tea and Stroll garden. For a last-minute trip, Vancouver is an easy drive just across the border from Washington in the United States. The Vancouver International Airport is a mere 20 minutes from the bustling activity of downtown Vancouver and accommodates travelers from all over the globe.
  
  

Central Canada & National Parks

• Canada boasts a stunning array of national parks throughout its territories. Follow along the remnants of the historic Canadian Pacific Railway in the province of Alberta, which takes visitors past such treasures as Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, and throughout the Canadian Rockies. Further east, visitors of the province of Saskatchewan can enjoy the sights of Grasslands National Park.
  
  Continuing east, visitors will enjoy the stunning vistas of the Riding Mountain National Park, in Manitoba. All are easily accessible by car or bus from the northernmost areas of the United States, and each province provides an international airport.
  
  

Last-Minute Travel

• No matter which territory of Canada you wish to visit, great flight and hotel deals are always available from such sites as Expedia or Kayak. Airlines and hotels that have not booked to their full capacity offer cut rates to entice travelers. Flexibility is key to finding great deals. The more flexible your arrival and departure dates, the more likely you will be to find flights and accommodations that suit your needs. For personal assistance and all-inclusive packages for spontaneous vacations, both Red Tag and Canada Travel are excellent resources and uniquely oriented toward last-minute arrangements on flights, accommodations, rental cars, tour packages, and entertainment.