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CANADA ’ S CULTURAL EXPERIENCES
Though adventures may be the first thing people think of when dreaming of Canada , the country has a range of rich cultures and heritages . Visitors can experience the unique je ne sais quoi of Québec , enjoy the serenity of Fogo Island in Newfoundland and Labrador , and learn about Indigenous cultures across the country . In British Columbia , visitors can experience Spirit Bear Lodge , which is situated in Klemtu , the home of the Kitasoo and Xai ’ xais Nations . Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about the history and cultures of the Peoples from the region while on site .
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Conservation and stewardship of the land is an integral aspect of the lodge ’ s approach to the region . Coast Funds , a local sustainable economic development and conservation management organisation , has described the lodge as “ a successful model for conservation-based ecotourism .” This enables visitors to learn about the relationships that local Indigenous Peoples have with the environment and how they have lived sustainably for thousands of years . The Indigenous-owned lodge is also a prime spot for wildlife watching , promising views of some of nature ’ s most majestic creatures . The biggest attraction is the Spirit Bear , or kermode bear , which the lodge is named after . |
‘ Learn about the relationships that local Indigenous Peoples have with the environment ’
Above : Fogo Island Inn ( Credit : The Inn )
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With a population of less than 150 worldwide , visitors are treated to one of nature ’ s rarest sites , with approximately 50 % of Spirit Bear Lodge guests sighting this bear with its distinct white coat . Viewing the bear from the lodge can be at truly transformational experience for guests , since the Spirit Bear holds great significance in the local First Nations cultures . As the lodge ’ s website states : “ The creator Raven made the Spirit Bear to remind the Kitasoo / Xai ' xais of a time when this land was covered in ice and how the people should be thankful for the lush and bountiful land of today .” Further east , Montréal , the largest city in the province of Quebec , boasts a thriving cultural and culinary scene combined with a uniquely French Canadian |
12 CONFERENCE & MEETINGS WORLD |