The CN Tower

Travel Reviews: The CN Tower

The purpose of the present travel review is to talk about a spectacular tourist attraction: The CN Tower, located in the city of Toronto, Ontario. The American Society of Civil Engineers bestowed the honourable mention of “Wonder of the Modern World” on the CN Tower in 1995. In addition to being one of the world’s modern wonders, the CN Tower is a national Canadian icon, a distinctive Toronto feature and a must-see for tourists, visitors and locals alike.

The American Society of Civil Engineers bestowed the honourable mention of “Wonder of the Modern World” on the CN Tower in 1995. In addition to being one of the world’s modern wonders, the CN Tower is a national Canadian icon, a distinctive Toronto feature and a must-see for tourists, visitors and locals alike.

At 553.33 m (1,815 ft) of altitude, the CN Tower stands the tallest tower in the world. The architectural marvel is illuminated at night and also provides visitors with an unforgettable dining experience at dizzying heights.Apparently, under ideal weather and viewing conditions, one can see as far as the New York State!

View from the observation point of the CN Tower. Shadow over the city. Image: © Elena

The major tourist attraction contains 6 elevators travelling at thrilling speeds and taking what seems like less than a minute to reach the observational area!

Since 1994, the CN tower features a particular attraction: The Glass Floor. Not designed for the faint of heart (or poodles) part of the floor allows visitors to stand on thick, transparent glass, looking down at 342 (1,122 ft.) metres of altitude below them. The Glass Floor can hold 21,835 kg or 48,138 lbs. Many visitors take pictures laying on the glass floor, which results in an optical illusion of them more or less floating the sky.

CN Tower Glass Floor View.  Literally walking on the air. Image: © Elena

A highly praised and coveted tourist attraction, the CN tower includes ticket options for even more fun. Also, the Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, the country’s largest, is located just beside the tower and showcases a multitude of underwater inhabitants. Thus, hopefully this travel log makes a good first impression about a fascinating sightseeing destination: The CN Tower.

It Happened in Canada

Happened in Canada

Mrs. Nancy Hodges was named speaker of British Columbia’s Legislative Assembly in 1949, and thereby became the first woman ever to hold the speaker’s chair in any Canadian Parliament.

The phenomenal Spotted Lake : Near Osoyoos, British Colombia, is one of the World’s greatest concentrations of mineral waters. The spots are caused by almost solid minerals forming separate circular pools, some cold, some hot. The waters are said to contain healing properties.

The Promethea Moth pupa spends the winter in a silk sewed leaf, attached to a thicket by a strong thread of silk.

Arctic Tern always lays 3 eggs then flies over its nest crying “Trieg” – norvegian for three eggs.

Old industrial buildings on the Evergreen Site, Toronto. Photo by Elena

Oysters are born by the billions – yet only one oyster in 145, 000 reaches maturity at the age of two years.

Frogs hear with their eyes. Behind each eye is a small nerve connected to the brain.

The Royal Canadian Navy, in which many Prairie boys served during World War II, played a major role in the battle of the Atlantic. By the war’s end it had safely escorted over 25,000 merchant ships through U-boat infested waters to Gt. Britain.

Keith McKenzie chief trader for the Hudson’s Bay Company in Labrador during the 1890’s could lift a 22,5 kg weight with his little finger and at arms length write his name on a wall.

The man who walked 1280 km to meet his bride: Wibur Wolfendon, a Dutch immigrant, walked in the dead of winter from Calgary to Winnipeg to meet his prospective birde, arriving from Hollan, in 1908.

Emil Vogelsang, fresh from Germany in 1867 established Canada’s first button factory at Berlin (now Kitchener, Ontario).

Fort Stewart in Montreal, photo by Elena

The Hermit of Niagara

Francis Abbot appeared at Niagara Falls in 1829. He was fascinated by the “sea-green waters and unearthly spray”.

Building a cabin on Goat Island on the brink of the gorge he retired to a life of seclusion, but often was seen with his hair streaming in the wind getting as close as possible to the wild torrents.

Then just two years after his arrival, Abbot entered the Niagara River as though driven by some inner compulsion and 11 days later the whirlpool gave his drowned body.

Niagara Falls, photo by Elena

Nellie Mooney McClung

Canada’s First militant for women’s liberation, Nellie Mooney McClung of Winnipeg. In January 1914, led a vociferous delegation of ladies, campaigning for the right to vote, into the Manitoba legislature for a confrontation with the Premier Sir Rodmond Roblin.

Politely rebuffed by the Premier, Nellie McClung and her followers showed they meant business by plying the rpovince in buchboards and lumber wagons, gathering a petition of 44, 000 signatures – enough to win the the vote in 1916. Alberta and Saskatchewan also yielded that year, and most provinces soon after, though Quebec waited until 1940.

Trivia about Canada

 Trivia about Canada

A Governor who had seen a ghost

One day in 1785, lt. George Wynard and Capt. John Sherbrooke (later governor-in-chief of Canada – 1816) were in the officers’ mess at Sydney, N.S. They saw a young civilian pass through the room and Wynard exclaimed! It was his brother who was in England. But then, the two puzzled officers were unable to fin the young man anywhere on the premises.

Later, Sherbrooke received a letter from England asking him to tell Wynard that his brother had died – on the very day, at the very hour he had “appeared” in Sydney.

Vanished forest monarchs

It is difficult today for visitors to the city of Vancouver, British-Colombia, to visualize the thousands of giant trees that towered to the skies, less than a hundred years ago,, where downtown Vancouver now stands.

From the dawn of time they had stood, many over 90 m high, as thick as fields of grain.

Black Creek Village. Photo by Elena

Joey, a tow year old budgie, owned by Mrs Joseph Peterson o Nanaimo, B.C. has a vocabulary of 280 words.

Mysterious ancient coins were found by miners excavating a tunnel in the Cassiar District of British Columbia in 1882. Taken to Victoria, the money was identified as currency of China dating from 2,000 B.C.

A last exit

Sir John A. Macdonald, Canadian first prime minister frequently avoided persistent patronage seekers by slipping out of his office by a back door and down a private spiral stairway to the street below.

Pieces of congealed mist from Niagara Fallas, sold as souvenirs from the earliest days of tourism at the famous site, were little white stones imported from England.

The weekly newspapers have more more Canadian-content than any other division of the mass media.

Prince Albert – the first white settlement in Saskatchewan, has another important distinction. Three of its members of Parliament have been prime-ministers (Laurier, King and Diefenbaker), while sitting for the constituency.

The bald eagle is the national symbol of the USA, yet more of them exist in British Columbia than all of the States.

Baby dolphins begin to leap alongside their mothers as soon as they are born.The Great Auk: A large flightless bird that inhabited the coasts of the North Atlantic passed out of existence on June 4, 1844. Its end was tragically typical : a pair was discover with an egg and destroyed, and this was the last pair.

Web Site Province Quebec

All you might want to know about Quebec : www.provincequebec.com This is how it started: in 1534, French navigator Jacques Cartier landed on the Gaspé Peninsula claiming the territory in the name of France and naming it Canada. 

Several voyages later, in 1608, the City of Quebec was founded as a capital of New France… New France, Lower Canada, the province of Quebec—so many names it carried through ages always playing a significant role in history and economic development of Canada. This is who we are today: almost 8 million Quebekers—a quarter of the total number of Canadians—living and working in the province famous for its cutting-edge industry and cultural events, universities and research centers, social programs and French heritage.

Quebec Bank, old wall in Guild Park, in Toronto. Photo by Elena

 We invite you to read about Quebec’s early history and significant events that took place during the second half of the 20th century: EXPO-67 and the 1976 Olympic Games. This and a lot more at your fingertips! Browse our site and learn more: Provincequebec.com was developed as an information resource for everybody who would like to learn about the province: its people, heritage, geography, tourist attractions, and the possibilities of working or studying here. 

 We value your feedback and your opinion does matter: you are welcome to write to us and to participate in our discussion forums. At present we are working on its full English version: www.provincequebec.com

Vaccination: Shots Your Pet Will Appreciate

Vaccination: Shots Your Pet Will Appreciate

Vaccination will keep your dog or cat free of many common diseases

Since the discovery in the eighteenth century that it was possible to build up immunities against certain diseases in both people and animals by injecting them with tiny amounts of living virus, hundreds of vaccines have been created. By immunizing pets in their early months and bolstering the protection with annual “booster” vaccinations, pet owners can shield their animals from diseases that often are highly contagious to other animals and, in cases such as rabies, pose a serious treat to humans as well. Here, from the American Veterinary Medical Association, is a rundown of the diseases against which your dog or cat should be immunized.

Both cats and dogs

Rabies: A viral disease that can attack the central nervous system of all warm-blooded animals, including humans. It is fatal if not treated, Most states require dog and cant owners to vaccinate their pets against rabies. The disease is transmitted by saliva, which is usually transferred by a bite from an infected animal and is frequently found in wild animals, such as skunks, raccoons, and bats.

There are two types of rabies – “dumb” and “furious”. Both cause a departure from normal behavior. 

Animals with furious rabies will have a period immediately prior to death in which they appear to be “mad”, frothing at the mouth and biting anything that gets in their way. Dumb rabies differs in that there is no “mad” period. Instead. Paralysis, usually of the lower jaw, is the first sign. The paralysis spreads to limbs and vital organs and death quickly follows. Wild animals that are unusually friendly and appear to have no fear of man or domestic animals should be avoided and reported immediately to the police or animal control authorities.

Pusha. Photo by Elena

Rabies is almost totally preventable by vaccination. Dogs and cats should receive an initial rabies vaccination by the age of three to four months. Protection lasts from one to three years. Regular booster vaccinations are required.

Dogs Only

Canine Bordetellosis: Caused by bacteria in the respiratory tracts of many animals, it is the primary cause of kennel cough. Besides the cough, some dogs suffer from a purulent nasal discharge. Transmission usually occurs through contact with other dogs’ nasal secretions. Vaccination is generally administered by nasal spray.

Canine distemper: A highly contagious viral disease, canine distemper is transmitted by direct or indirect contact with the discharges from an infected dog’s eyes and nose. Direct contact is unnecessary because the virus can be carried by air currents and inanimate objects. Early signs are similar to those of a severe cold and often go unrecognized by the pet owner. The respiratory problems may be accompanied by vomiting and diarrhea. A nervous system disorder may also develop.

The death rate from canine distemper is greater than 50 percent in adult dogs and even higher in puppies. Even if the dog survives, distemper can cause permanent damage to a dog’s nervous system, sense of smell, hearing, and sight. Partial or total paralysis is not uncommon.

Canine Leptospirosis: A bacterial disease that harms the kidneys and can result in kidney failure. Vomiting, impaired vision, and convulsions are all tipoffs. Transmission result from contact with the urine of infected animals, or contact with something tainted by the urine of an infected animal.

Canine parainfluenza: A viral infection of the respiratory tract, it is frequently accompanied by other respiratory viruses and is usually spread through contact with the nasal secretions of other dogs.

Canine parvovirus (CPV): A serious problem because the virus withstands extreme temperature change and even exposure to most disinfectants. The source of infection is usually dog feces, which can contaminate cages and shoes and can be carried on the feet and hair of infected animals.

CPV attacks the intestinal tract, white blood cells, and heart muscle. Symptoms include vomiting, severe diarrhea, a loss of appetite, depression, and high fever. Most death occur within 48 to 72 hours after the onset of clinical signs. Infected pups may act depressed or collapse, gasping for breath. 

Death may follow immediately. Pups that survive are likely to have permanently damaged hearts.

Infectious canine hepatitis: Caused by a virus that can infect many issues, the disease usually attacks the liver, causing hepatitis. In some instances a whiteness or cloudiness of the eye may accompany the disease. Another strain of the same virus can cause respiratory tract infections. These viruses are transmitted by contact with objects that have been contaminated with the urine from infected dogs. Infectious canine hepatitis is different from human hepatitis.

Cats only

Feline panleukopenia: Also known as feline distemper, the disease comes from a virus so resistant that it may remain infectious for over a year at room temperature on inanimate objects. Spread through blood, urine, feces, nasal secretions and fleas from infected cats, the virus causes high fever, dehydration, vomiting, and lethargy and destroys a cat’s white blood cells. It is 50 to 70 percent fatal, but immunity can be developed throug vaccination of kittens and annual boosters.

Feline Leukemia virus: A disease of the immune system that is usually fatal, its symptoms include weight loss, lethargy, recurring of chronic sickness, diarrhea, unusual breathing, and yellow coloration around the mouth and the whites of the eyes. Confirmation of the virus requires a blood test. Fortunately, there is a new vaccine that provides protection.

Pushon. Photo by Elena

Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Felins clicivirus, and Feline pneumonitis: All three are highly infectious viruses of the respiratory tract, for which vaccinations are available.

Calling the Shots on Your Pet’s Health

The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends the following vaccination:

Dogs: Distemper, infectious canine hepatitis (CAV 1 and CAV 2), parvovirus infection, bordetellosis, parainfluenza, leptospirosis, rabies, coronavirus.

Cats: Panleukopenia, viral rhinotracheitis, caliciviral disease, rabies, feline leukemia.

From Pharaoh'h Favorites to Loving Tabbies

From Pharaoh’s Favorites to Loving Tabbies

Cats have been everything from tap companion to religious idol through the ages. Here’s the book on the best, brighеest, most elegant and most cuddy cats from which to choose when picking a pet.

Abyssinian: One of the oldest known breeds, their slender, elegant, muscular bodies were often featured in paintings and sculptures in ancient Egypt. Abyssinians have arched necks, large ears, almond-shapes eyes, and long tapered tails. The Abyssinians’s soft and silky medium-length coat is one of its most unique features. Each hair has two or three distinct bands of black or dark brown, giving the breed a subtle overall coat color and lustroгs sheen. Abyssinians also can have a rich copper red coat. They are particularly loyal and make good companions.

American curl: The name comes from the breed’s unique curled ears, which curl away from the head to make it look as if this cat is always alert. The American curl is moderately large, with walnut-shaped eyes. Its ears are straight at birth, and curl within 2 to 10 days. A relatively rare breed, the American curl usually weighs 5 to 10 pounds. Curls are short-haired, and their coats come in all colors possible. Even-tempered and intelligent with a playful disposition. American curls adore their owners and display affection in a quiet way. They adapt to almost any home, live well with other animals, and are very healthy.

American shorthair: The descendants of house cats and farm cats. American shorthairs are easy to care for and resistant to disease. They have big bones and are docile and even-tempered. The breed is strongly built, with an agile, medium to large body and big bones. They have a short, thick coat that ranges in colors from black to white to red to tabby.

American wirehair: Uniquely American, the breed began as a spontaneous mutation in a litter on a farm in New York in 1966. Its dense coarse coat is hard to touch and sets these cats apart from any other breed. Some also have curly whiskers. The breed is active and agile and has a keen interest in its surroundings. Although it is quiet and reserved, owners find the breed easy to care for.

If he thinks you merit his attention, he'll answer. If not, he'll be indifferent. White Persian, photo by Elena

Balinese: Related to the Siamese, it has a long silky coat, but unlike most long-haired cats, its coat doesn’t mat. Endowed with a long, muscular body, the Balinese can come in several colors, including seal point, blue point, and chocolate point. The Balinese is intelligent, curious, and alert. It is as affectionate and demonstrative as the Siamese, but it isn’t as talkative and has a softer voice when it does speak up.

British shorthair: Perhaps the oldest natural English breed, the British shorthair is enjoying new popularity. These cats tend to be reserved, devoted, and good companions. Because of their dens coats, they also are easy to groom.

Burmese: Known as the clown of the cat kingdom, the Burmese thrives on attention and is very gregarious. It has a compact body and a glossy coat that comes in several colors including sable and champagne. Burmese live well with kids and dogs. They are smart, loyal, and devoted. Despite their hefty appetites, they seldom are fat. They are very expensive, though, costing as much as $2,000 or even more.

Cornish rex: Considered “ultra-refined”, the Cornish Rex has the body of a greyhound, huge ears set high on its head, and large eyes. It is surprisingly heavy and warm to the touch, with a very soft coat and muscular body. Not only do these cats fastidiously groom themselves, but they want to groom their human companions as well. If that’s not to your liking, you want another cat, because the problem may be impossible to eliminate. The Cornish Rex are highly intelligent and will adapt to almost any environment. They are skillful hunters, love children and dogs, and make superb pets. They generally like to be handled and are excellent choices for people who love cats but dislike cat hair, because they have an undercoat but no outer coat.

Devon rex: Devons are considered a mutant breed. The mature female averages 6 pounds; the male averages 7.5 pounds. Devons have a full, wavy coat, large eyes, a short muzzle, prominent cheekbones, and huge low-set ears, which make them look a bit elfin. They are concerned for their owner’s safety and are very curious. They refuse to be left out of anything, always knowing where they are going and what they will do there. People with allergies to cat hair can happily live with a Devon Rex because they do not shed.

Exotic shorthair: Sometimes called the “Teddy Bear” cat, exotic shorthairs require little maintenance because their medium-to-long coat does not mat. They are Persian-like in temperament and type but have an easy-to-care for plush coat. They will jump to your lap to take a nap, but generally prefer cooler places to sleep. They are very quite, but they will retrieve a toy until you get tired of throwing it.

Japanese Bobtail: The Japanese consider bobtails a symbol of good luck. They are medium-sized and muscular with a short tail which resembles a pom-pom or a rabbit’s tail. They have high cheekbones, a long nose and large ears. Born much larger than other cats, the sturdy breed learns to walk earlier than others and starts getting into mischief earlier as well. Active, intelligent, and talkative, their soft voices have a whole scale of tones; some people say they sing. They almost always speak when spoken to and enjoy a good game of fetch and ridding around on their human companion’s shoulders. Japanese bobtails are good travelers and good with dogs and children.

Photo by Elena

Korat: They are quite rare, even in Thaïland, where the breed originated. The Korat’s oversized, luminous eyes have been called “dewdrops on a lotus leaf” The Korat is medium-sized with a hard body and a silverish blue coat. They have extraordinary powers of hearing, sight, and scent. They are cautious, and they dislike loud, sudden noises. They form an exceptionally strong bond to their human companions and enjoy being cuddled. They get along well with other cats, but might compete for the owner’s affections if there is another cat.

Maine Coon Cat: The Maine coon cat was chosen as best cat at the first cat show ever held in America. It is a native American long-hair. Originally a working cat, it is a very good mouser. The Maine coon cat is solid and rugged and can endure a harsh climate, like Maine’s. It has a smooth, shaggy coat and is known for its loving nature and great intelligence. The breed is especially good with children and dogs and has always been a popular and sought-after companion.

Oriental Shorthair: The extremely long Oriental shorthair is described by the Cat Fancers’ Association as “demonstrative and silly, as well as sinuous and sensuous. Its emerald eyes can gleam with wit, flash and arrogance.” These cats are medium-sized and are choosy eaters at times. They are easy to care for and make a practical pet. The Cat Fanciers’ Association says, “Their innate sensibility verges on psychic. Once communication is established, you’ll never need an alarm clock, or wonder where the cat is when you arrive home from work.”