Unless you are skier, you probably aren’t thinking of taking a trip to Canada during the winter months. With the exception of a slightly temperate slice of land on its West Coast, the country is somewhat less than warm this time of year. But regardless of the temperature or what it says on the calendar, Canada is a country worth exploring.

In addition to vast tracks of pristine land and countryside, Canada offers some of the finest cities around with diverse populations, great food and a cleanliness that will amaze you. While the Canadian dollar continues to strengthen, the country still is a relative bargain for the European traveler looking to do a little shopping while trying not to break the bank.

[1] Zoom Airlines offers low cost flights from 5 UK airports to Canada. Flights (one-way) from Gatwick to Toronto start from just £69 (excluding taxes approx £70). Return flights, including all taxes start from just £276. Those are some superb prices. Zoom also flies to Halifax, Ottawa, Montreal, Winnipeg, Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver so matter which part of Canada you are looking to explore, it is an airline worth checking out while you are making your travel arrangements.

For the best hostels, deals and information about the great white north, check out the [2] Canada Travel Guide this very second.