Canada, one of the most progressive LGBTQ-welcoming countries on the planet, continues to celebrate diversity and equality for all citizens, with over five years of legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, and anti-discrimination laws in place everywhere. Although there is still some work to be done, many openly gay, lesbian and transgendered people serve as politicians, police, military, or public servants, and are visible in prominent positions across the land. Official Pride Festivals, Queer Film Festivals, and community events galore are also openly celebrated in communities large and small, from coast to coast.

2010 is a landmark year for many organizations and symbols in Canada, and some highlights of note include Parks Canada celebrating 125 years, the Royal Canadian Navy at 100 years, Welcome Wagon marks 80 years, Canada’s National Ballet is now 50, Canada’s iconic maple leaf National Flag is 45, the Juno Awards are 40, and the Canadian Gay and Lesbian Archives are now approaching 40. Toronto Pride celebrates 30 years as one of the largest LGBTQ events in North America, we commemorate 30 years since the start of the Terry Fox Marathon of Hope, and Vancouver gears up to celebrate 125 years, as host city to the 2011 North America Outgames.

February also saw Vancouver host the world for the very successful 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, with the first-ever PRIDE House hosted at an Olympic event, in the heart of Whistler Village, and Davie Village in downtown Vancouver’s West End. There was a lot of media interest in this groundbreaking venture, and there is ongoing speculation to see if this will continue as a permanent fixture at future events.

Canada’s reputation as a fantastic, LGBTQ-positive place to visit continues in the media, and with top-tier ratings in international surveys as a preferred destination of choice. Our community leaders and travel industry partners are also very visible and active at major LGBTQ tradeshows, conferences, and events worldwide. 

Right now is a great time to visit Canada, or to get out there and start exploring if you call this fabulous country home.

	ATLANTIC East Coast Explorations		QUEBEC Joie de Vivre
	ONTARIO Urban Adventure		Cover Story
	WESTERN 1 Travel Spectacular General Info & Vancouver		WESTERN 2 Travel Spectacular Whistler & Victoria