While I’ve gotten my own poutine recipe down; it’ll never beat true Quebecois poutine & their many variations. So today, join me in watching this hunger-inducing video.

[ Video by WatchMojo ]

Sunday Canadian Travel Video – French Poutine is Awesome! is a post from: I Backpack Canada

I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to introduce some Saskatchewan food to my fellow friend Andy, hailing from PEI / Halifax. While his decision to visit Saskatchewan was primarily based around checking out Saskatchewans booming economy, he wasn’t opposed to the idea of trying some local food. Its pretty rare that I ever get the chance to show anybody from the East Coast what Saskatchewan is all about, so I didn’t want to screw this up. In light of this weight on my shoulders, I recruited my family to help bring out the big guns.

The Ukrainian Feast, care of Peg’s Kitchen

One of the most dominant cultures to settle the Saskatchewan area were the Ukrainians. These people who came over to the prairies were good at three things, Farming, Cooking, and Makin’ Babies. Which is why there is still such a huge population of Ukrainian descendants, and even whole towns who still speak the Old Language. Their tenacity to farm, cook, and breed are one of the main reasons Saskatchewan has informally claimed the Cabbage Roll, the Perogie, and the Home-made sausage as their own.

Rather than going to the nearest grocery store and picking up a bunch of boring frozen factory made Ukrainian Food, the Fraser Family pulled all the stops and talked to Peg’s Kitchen. For those who don’t know, Peg is the Queen of Ukrainian food in Southern Saskatchewan. Stop by her kitchen in Regina for some of the best home-made everything! We went with the classic Ukrainian Lunch. Cabbage Rolls, Pierogis, Sausages, Buns, and to wash it all down, a dozen bottles of Pilsner. I think it goes without saying that the meal was amazing, but it wasn’t over until we brought out the secret weapon. Saskatoon Berry Pie, topped with Cool Whip, and a spoonful of organic Saskatoon berry topping. Yes, you heard right. Double Dose of Saskatoon Berries! Despite how full everyone was feeling, everyone crushed some pie. For those who don’t know, this delightful berry is unique to the region, and is like nothing I know of. I describe it as amazing, just be sure to give it a shot next time you’re in the prairies!

Grandmas Hamburger soup

If you’ve managed to digest everything from a Ukrainian meal, congratulations, you’re almost a certified Saskatchewanite. But your test isn’t over. There is much to eat. For instance, Grandma’s homemade Hamburger Soup. While the recipe varies throughout the province, Hamburger Soup has become a staple meal in our family, and many others as the go-to-heart-warming, comforting winter food. Dip a fresh bun/roll, biscuit, or crush some crackers in there and your looking in the eye of one of the heartiest soups this side the Great Lakes. Big love & mentions need to go out to my Grandma for being so awesome and cooking for the whole gang!

The Deep Dish Pizza

The next meal is a bit of an anomaly, and I wish I knew more about why this meal is so popular in Saskatchewan. The deep dish pizza. They’re everywhere out west, especially in Regina. Verns, Houston Pizza, Western Pizza, and Trifons, they all compete to have the thickest most meatiest pizza in town. Deep dish has an all new meaning in Saskatchewan! If your pizza is less than 7 peperoni slices thick, it’s not even in the same race. Gooey, cheesy, thick, greasy, this is a clogged artery waiting to happen. Words can’t even describe how insane this thing is, and I mean that in a good way. We made a stop at the Argyle Houston Pizza and were greeted by the friendliest owner who even bought our group shots. +30 points for him & his business in my books. [Hint: Great Western Pilsner goes down great with this type pie]

Hungry for more? Well perfect, because I plan on a part 2 of this post next time I’m back in the prairies (summer-ish). We haven’t even gotta into Deer Sausage/Jerky, Bannick, or even stopped by Nicky’s Cafe! This was a good start for now. If you’re from Saskatchewan & have something you think I should try, please leave a comment! I love food, and am more than happy to go out of the way to eat something new.

My Guide to Food in Saskatchewan is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Explosions at Citadel Hill

I woke up with 7 minutes to make it 6 blocks to Citadel Hill for the 21 gun salute. Yes, I slept in til 11:53am, do I regret it? Not a chance. I threw on a semi-clean Tee and commenced running with perfect form. Some might say I looked like a gazelle as I passed families covered in temp tattoos of maple leafs, with red shirts, red hats, and Canadian flags hanging from any nook and cranny they could find. I made it there with less than a minute to spare. The canons exploded violently, shaking the everything and everyone near. As the 21st shot went off, the crowd lining Citadel Hill cheered.

Big ships on the Boardwalk

I walked back to my apartment leisurely, high fiving families and drunks decked out in red & white. It was already 12:15pm, I had to catch up to these animals. That wasn’t hard. After consuming a fair amount of drinks with my friend slash roommate, we decided to check out what was going on down at the boardwalk. Rumour had it that there were still a bunch of Navy ships kicking around from the Queens recent visit. The ships still in harbour during Fleet Week were awesome. Coming from SK, where the biggest boat you can hop on is your cousin Jeds 12 foot tin can fishing boat, these ships blew me away.

The Battered Fish

After checking out some of the ships the smell of salty and savory food was luring us in. The boardwalk is notorious for amazing little food stands, as well as some of its more high end restaurants. We chose the food stands. The Battered Fish was pretty lined up, but the sign above where they were taking orders greeted us with warm words, such as Poutine, and Fish ‘n Chips, and other sexy words, like “side of Gravy”, and “Made with real cheese curds“. The food was in our hands in minutes, and in our guts in seconds. Why does everything taste so much better when you’ve got a good buzz on?

A Quick Nap

I ended up walking up to Citadel Hill again to see what was going on. Which as it turned out at that moment, wasn’t much. I starfished on the grass, enjoying the bright blue sky we were given on this fantastic day. Next thing I know I wake up to the sun setting. Must have passed out there for a minute. Classic whiskey.

Wake up for round 2

Justin and I made it back to our apartment for some coffee, followed by more drinks. That quick passout kicked our butt, so getting back into the swing of things the second time around was tough. However thanks to the invention of the shotglass, we were properly intoxicated in a short time. We ran down to the harbour and barely caught the fireworks. We oo’d and ah’d for a couple of the big ones, then began planning our night.

Initially we had planned on catching the ferry to Dartmouth to catch Joel Plaskett, but those plans never panned out unfortunately. Instead we ended up bar hopping for most of the night. We met some cool people, high fived a few thousand hands, and listened to some live bands at various drinking establishments. All in all, good Canada Day. Bad hangover, but good Canada Day.

2010 Canada Day in Halifax, Nova Scotia is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Bush Pie

Bush Pie may not sound like the most delicious type of food you would want to be scarfing on in front of a fire, but you couldn’t be more wrong. Hands down, Bush Pie is one of the most crucial pieces of food to make any camping trip a success. With its crisp outside and the insane amount of things you can put in them, they’re like the gift that keeps on giving.

What is a bush pie? It’s basically bread, and filling of your choice, stuffed inside a cast-iron bush pie maker, and cooked over the fire until delicification has reached maximum. Allow me to elaborate:

What you’ll need

• A Cast iron bush pie maker – Found at any Canadian Tire or Outdoor and Camping Supply Store
• A loaf of bread (because 2 slices will barely cut it for one person)
• Butter or Margarine
• Bush Pie Filling – This can include Cinnamon Spread, Nutella, Pie Filling, Chocolate, Marshmallows, Nuts, Meat, Chili, Cheese, Vegetables, the choices are endless

How to make bush pie

• Spread a good amount of butter or margarine on 2 slices of bread
• Place the bread in bush pie maker, buttered side down (think grilled cheese effect)
• Place a couple tablespoons of filling on top of one side of the bread
• Close bush pie maker which should push 2 slices of bread together with the filling on the inside
• Place over fire or in the coals until finished
• Open Cast-iron bush pie maker and devour

Note: Keep a close eye on it while it cooks, doesn’t take long to burn

Marshmallows

Marshmallows have become part of a staple diet of campers for decades, so it should only make sense that this fun and fluffy food should be included in this list. Roasting Marshmallows has become an art form over the years. Some choosing to abandon all rules and burn their white fluffs of magic into a charred piece of ash, others choose the gentle but affective roasting technique which results in crispy caramelized marshmallows.

Quick fact – North Americans eat about 90,000,000 pounds of marshmallows per year.

Marshmallows basically consist of Sugar, Water, Corn Syrup, and Gelatin. Just a heads up for all you vegetable-liking vegetarians, most brands will be off-limits for you, on account of the Gelatin, which as you may or may not know is made of animal hides and bones. I’ll be the last to judge you if you do decide to cheat though. Who can blame you. Marshmallows fricken’ rock!

Wieners

One of the most commonly misspelled words in the English language is also one of the most popular foods to bring on a camping trip. The science behind a good wiener is pretty sound.

• Jam wiener onto a sharp pointy stick.
• Ensure it’s on there good, the last thing you want to do is drop your wiener in the fire.
• Keep a good distance between the flame and your wiener, the last thing you want to do is burn that sucker.
• Slowly rotate your wiener to ensure an evenly cooked piece of meat.
• Place wiener in a bun or in your mouth.
• If you’re feeling extra crazy, use ketchup, mustard, and relish to make your boring wiener into a gourmet wiener.
• Enjoy.

Beans

Cheap, flavourful, and extremely easy to cook over the fire, a can of beans can go a long way when your camping. Tasty any time of day, and with several flavours to choose from, you shouldn’t get bored of them all that quick. I personally suggest having at least two different types of beans. A morning can of beans, and an evening can of beans. The most logical type of morning beans you can eat, would be the famous Quebecois Beans, which are essentially a normal can of beans, however instead of the regular tomato sauce, you’re treated with delicious maple syrup! Then come evening time, when you’re gut is telling you “It’s bean time!“, you open up that other can of beans, which will be the classic, yet tasty, Beans in Tomatoe Sauce. Remember to bring a utensil though. Do NOT drink the can of beans if the can just came out of the fire. You will burn your lips. Trust me.

S’Mores

S’mores take some serious work, so be prepared. However the hard work, sticky fingers and sticky clothes will all be worth it for the 2 minutes of enjoying one of the best campfire foods out there. These take a few more ingredients, so be sure to hit up the grocery store on your way out of town.

What you’ll need:

• 1 box of Graham Crackers
• A bag of marshmallows
• Some chocolate (The flat, hershey type of chocolate works best)

Directions:

• Roast marshmallow to perfection
• Place piece of chocolate on top of one Graham Crack
• Place gooey marshmallow on top of chocolate-cracker-combo
• Sandwich the other Graham cracker on top
• Enjoy

Shish kebabs

Shish Kebabs aren’t on everybodies list of camping foods, but if you’ve got the time, money, and patience, you can whip up an unforgettable meal that your friends or family will talk about for weeks to come.

What you’ll need:

• Skewers
• Cuts of meat – Steak, Chicken, Pork, Lamb
• Semi-crisp vegetables – Peppers (ie Capsicum), Onions, Mushrooms, Tomatoes, Cucumbers
• Some salad dressing

Directions

• Soak skewers overnight in water with a dash of salt
• Soak vegetables in a bowl of salad dressing
• Stab meat and vegetables onto skewers
• Separate some hot coals from the fire into a corner of the fire pit
• Place two large sturdy stones close together
• Place shish kebabs over the gap created by the stones
• Spin occasional to ensure even cooking

Note: Ensure you’re meat is fully cooked before serving

Beers

Chances are you’re going to get the thirst by the time your tent is set up. It’s futile to fight this sensation. I’m not sure exactly why the smell of the outdoors and campfires makes people crave booze. It just does. Fighting this feeling will only result in overindulging in food, which in turn could lead to the same bodily function caused by alcohol, vomiting. So grab a case or two for the weekend, find a cooler, cold lake, river, or stream (to keep your beer cold), and kick back – relax. Enjoy the sights, smells, and tastes.

Note: Be careful when it comes to drinking around campfires. They have a horrible tendency to burn whatever they touch. And as tempting as it is, avoid performing the ‘Superman’ over the bonfire if possible.

My friend Rob, after too many drinks and a superman attempt.

Top 7 Must-Have Foods for Camping Trips is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Gotta be KD

Kraft Dinner has been a part of Canadian culture since the late 60′s, it’s found it’s way into just about every Canadians pantry at some point or another. It literally has become the King of all mac ‘n cheeses, and for you to dispute that is seen as treason in Canada, so tread lightly. The closest thing I can relate it to for somebody not from Canada, is that KD is to Canadians what Vegemite is to Australians. We’re all hooked to say the least.

On April 1, 2010, Kraft Dinner began its search for the “Official KD Canadian Correspondent”. As the KD Canadian Correspondent, you win:

Enter here

All this talk of the oh-so delicious KD might have you wondering now…“I wonder how Corbin eats his KD?” Well I’m going to leave that to another post, as it might explode your brains.

Win a 16 Day trip across Canada with KD! is a post from: I Backpack Canada

1. Ask to speak in English

When speaking to a local stranger, be it gas station attendant, bistro staff, or just looking for directions, ask politely if he or she speaks English. You’re more likely to be treated kindly by doing this than by speaking blindly in English with no regard as to whether they speak it or not.

Pardon, madame/monsieur/mademoiselle, parlez-vous anglais?

Which translates to: Excuse me madam/sir/miss, do you speak English?

Most of the time you’ll find out that “Oui“, they do, however if they say “Non“, you’re on your own. Just hope that you’re both good at Charades.

2. Understanding French Road Signs

There are large parts of Quebec where the road signs will stop showing up in both English and French. If you know very little French this can be frightening. Stay calm. There are certain words that you can pick out of those signs to get you in the right direction.

When you see:

French	English
Nord	North
Sud	South
Ouest	West
Est	East
Entrée	Entrance
Sortie	Exit
Renseignements	Information
Interdit	Prohibited
Ouvert	Open
Fermé	Closed
Cédez la Priorité	Give Way
Défense de Stationner	No Parking
Interdiction de doubler	No Overtaking
Péage	Toll
Ralentissez	Slow Down
Sens Interdit	No Entry
Sens Unique	One Way

Of coarse having a map will significantly increase your chances of not getting turned around. Whenever I travel through Quebec I always do some pre-driving preparations just to make sure I know which Highways to get off and on. My last bit of advice for french road signs, follow the herd. As long as you’re doing what everyone else is doing, you’re probably not breaking any laws, of coarse you might not be heading in the right direction, but there’s no fines for being a lost tourist.

3. Know your French Food Terms

Food and Quebec go together like bikini’s and beaches, popcorn and movies, and peanut butter & jelly. Quebec can be a foodie’s paradise, but ordering your favourite dish can be confusing if you know little to no French. For the most part, pointing to what you want on the menu will normally suffice, but if you want to look extra cool, and not make the mistake of ordering something you didn’t want,  knowing a bit of french can make all the difference.

Food Terms

French	English
Je voudrais…	I’d like (a)…
Je suis allergique…	I’m allergic to…
…aux abeilles	…bees
…aux noix	…nuts
C’est combien?	How much is it?
Est-ce que je peux payer avec…	Can I pay with….
…ma carte de credit	…my credit card
…ma carte de débit	…my debit card (ATM/ABM)
Petit-dejeuner (or) Dejeuner	Breakfast
Dejeuner (or) Diner	Lunch
Diner (or) Souper	Dinner / Supper
Manger	Eat
la Soupe	Soup
la Salade	Salad
le Dessert	Desert
le repas	meal
avoir faim	to be hungry
…	…click here for more French food translations

You may have noticed there are a couple ways to say breakfast, lunch, and supper. That’s not a type-o, Quebec french is a little different than traditional French. It can sometimes be confusing if you were taught traditional French. Most French speaking Quebec people will call breakfast “dejeuner”, lunch “diner”, and supper “souper”. However they’ll completely understand what you’re trying to say should you say “petit dejeuner” in lieu of “dejeuner”. Just smile while you’re saying it and you’ll be fine.

4. Booking accommodations in French

If you plan on booking a hotel, bed and breakfast, campground, or a dorm in a hostel, there’s a chance you’ll end up having to do so in French. Knowing what to say in person and over the phone can make booking a place to stay in another language much less stressful.

Accommodation Terms

French	English
Je cherche…	I’m looking for a…
…un Hôtel	…hotel
…une auberge de jeunesse	…youth hostel
…un camping	….camp ground
…une pension de famille	…guesthouse
Est-ce que vous avez des chambres libres?	Do you have any rooms available?
Je vourdrais…	I’d like a…
…une chambre à un lit	…single room
…une chambre pour deux	…room for two
…une chambre avec des lits jumeaux	…room with two beds
…me coucher dans un dortoir	…dorm room
Quel est le prix…?	How much is it…?
…par nuit	…per night
…par personne	….per person
Je pars aujourd’hui	I’m leaving today

5. Understanding some Transportation lingo

If you’re not going to be the one driving there isn’t much need to know about the road signs. However if you plan on catching a bus, train, plane, or ferry, you’ll probably need to know a few french phrases to keep up with all the hustle and bustle going on around you.

Transportation Terms

French	English
Quel heur le (…x) arrive?	What time does the (…x) arrive?
Quel heur le (…x) part?	What time does the (…x) leave?
…le bateau	…boat
…le bus	…bus
…l’avion	…plane
…le train	…train
Je voudrais un billet…	I’d like a … ticket
simple	one-way
aller-retour	round trip
de première classe	first class
Je vourdrais louer…	I’d like to rent/hire…
une voiture	a car
un quatre-quatre	a four wheel drive
un vélo	a bicycle
le numero de quai	Platform number
le guichet	ticket office
la gare	train station

Quebec is a stunning example of Canada’s mosaic of languages and cultures. Whether you know how to say ‘Bonjour‘ or not, you’ll have a good time regardless. Still, brushing up on your French can help you out a lot on the road. Even if you only end up using it a couple times. I compiled the translations into a more “Printer friendly” version, should you decide to print these out and give ‘em a go along the way.

Click here for a Printer Friendly version of the translations.

5 Things English speakers need to know when Traveling through Quebec is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Tim Hortons was founded in 1964 in Hamilton, Ontario by the famous Canadian hockey player Tim Horton and part-time drummer Jim Charade. In 1967 Tim Hortons partnered with investor Ron Joyce, who took over operations after Tim Horton tragically died when he flipped his sports car driving to Buffalo from Toronto in 1974. The chain later franchised into the multi-million dollar company we see today.

View Larger Map

How many Tim Hortons are there in Canada? is a post from: I Backpack Canada

How to cook a meal in your hotel room is a post from: I Backpack Canada

1. Maple Chicken

Try this classic and tasty meal with a few friends. This recipe adds a little more crisp to every bite of chicken you take.

Ingredients

2 1/2 lbs chicken pieces
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon grated fresh lemon rind
1/4 cup chopped almonds
1 pinch pepper
2 teaspoons lemon juice

Directions

1.Over 400 F (200 C).
2.Remove skin from chicken pieces, and discard skin.
3.Place chicken pieces in a shallow 9 x 13 (3 litre) pan.
4.Mix remaining ingredients and pour over chicken.
5.Bake in 400F (200C) oven, uncovered, for 50 minutes, basting occasionally.

2. Canadian Car Bomb

This alternative to an Irish Car bomb has the same kick, however with a definite sweet side to it. Depending on where you order it, the recipe may change depending on whiskey, beer, or maple. However it’s pretty consistent that you drop a shot of Whiskey and Maple Syrup or Liqueur into a cold beer. Try

Ingredients

1 pint of Molson Canadian Beer
1/2 Shot of Canadian Club Whiskey
1/2 Shot of Maple Syrup or Maple Syrup Liqueur

Directions

Drop the half and half shot of maple syrup and whiskey into the pint of Beer and commence chugging. Similar to an Irish Car Bomb or a Jaggerbomb.

3. Maple Milk

An old farmers recipe to curing a sweet tooth. One of my personal favourites.

Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup to a cold glass of milk, stir, sip, enjoy.

4. Maple Glazed Carrots

Take an already delicious vegetable, and spruce it up with some delicious Canadian Maple Syrup. A great way to get vegetables into someone who doesn’t like them.

Ingredients

8 medium carrots
3 tablespoons butter
¼ cup maple syrup
½ teaspoon ginger

Directions

Slice the carrots. Cook until they are tender. Melt the butter, then add the maple syrup and
ginger. Simmer the carrots in maple syrup mixture until glazed

5. Maple Spare Ribs

Spare Ribs are universally known for being delicious however you cook them. Add a Canadian twist to your batch and impress some friends. Try it out on a barbeque or in the oven. Either way you’re mouth will crave more with every bite.

Ingredients

1.4 kg (3 lbs.) lean pork spareribs

175 ml (6 fl.oz.) pure maple syrup
15 ml (1 tablespoon) chili sauce
15 ml (1 tablespoon) Worcestershire sauce
15 ml (1 tablespoon) red wine vinegar
1 small onion, chopped
1.25 g (1/4 teaspoon) dry mustard
Salt
Freshly ground pepper

Directions

Roast ribs on a rack in pre-heated oven 400F (200C or gas mark 7) for roughly 30 minutes. Combine all the
remaining ingredients in a pan and bring to boil for 5 minutes. Remove the ribs from rack and reduce
heat to 350F (180C of gas mark 4). Place ribs in a baking tin and cover with the sauce. Bake
uncovered for a further 45 minutes, basting frequently.

6. Maple Baked Beans

The only known way of making Baked Beans more magical than they already are.

Ingredients

1. 2 cups dried navy or white beans, soaked overnight
2. 2 cups maple syrup
3. 4 slices bacon, diced
4. 1 x large onion, peeled and diced
5. 1 tbsp dried ginger
6. 1 tbsp dried mustard

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 300 degrees.
2. Place the beans into a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil then reduce the heat and simmer until beans until tender, about 45 minutes.
3. Drain the beans and place in a 4-quart ovenproof baking dish with a tight fitting lid. Add the maple syrup, bacon, onion, ginger and mustard. Bake until the beans have absorbed all the liquid, and are brown and tender, about 1 1/2 hours.

7. Maple Syrup Glaze for Salmon or Ham

A traditional East Coast recipe. Sure to knock the socks off any true foodie.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 2-3 T. Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 T. balsamic vinegar
• 1 t. salt
• ½ t. black peppper

Directions

1. Whisk ingredients together
2. Cover salmon or ham steaks with glaze, reserving some for serving.
3. Refrigerate for 1-6 hours.

8. Maple Cinnamon Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are delicious enough on their own. But add a sweet glaze of Maple Syrup and compliment it with a pinch of cinnamon and you are in for a flavour explosion.

Ingredients

2 large sweet potatoes, unpeeled and scrubbed (about 1-1/2 lb)
1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil, melted butter or margarine
4 teaspoons maple syrup
3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 pinch nutmeg

Directions

1.Preheat oven to 425°F
2.Spray rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray.
3.Cut sweet potatoes lengthwise in half and each half into 4 wedges. Place on prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, combine remaining ingredients; brush half of mixture over sweet potatoes.
5.Bake in centre of oven for 20 minutes.
6.Turn and brush with remaining maple syrup mixture.
7.Bake another 15 minutes or until tender.

9. Maple Syrup Pie

A delicious Maple Syrup Pie. Warm. Crisp. Sweet. The perfect way to finish a meal.

Ingredients

Pastry dough
1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs at room temperature
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup pure maple syrup (preferably dark amber)
2 teaspoons unsalted butter, melted

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Roll out dough into an 11-inch round on a lightly floured surface with a floured rolling pin and fit into an 8-inch (3-cup) glass pie plate. Trim excess dough and crimp edges decoratively.
3. Whisk together brown sugar and eggs until creamy. Add cream, syrup, and butter, then whisk until smooth. Pour filling into pie shell.
4. Bake pie in lower third of oven until pastry is golden and filling is puffed and looks dry but still trembles, 50 to 60 minutes. Cool on a rack to room temperature (filling will set as pie cools).

10. Peanut Butter and Maple Syrup Sandwhich

People have looked at me as if I’m crazy when I do this. However, I am not alone (or at least I like to think so). If you’re short on Jam or Jelly for your PB & J Sanny – try this alternative. Easy to make. Easier to enjoy.

Take two slices of bread, spread a large amount of peanut butter on one slice of bread, followed by a tablespoon or more (depending on your preferences) on the other slice. Slap both slices together and eat.

Have you got a random food you enjoy with maple syrup? Let us know!

10 Foods you need you try with Maple Syrup is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Video – One Minute and Fifty Seconds in Canada is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Canada Rocks the Capital!
Parliament Hill,
Ottawa Ontario

This is THE party to be at. If you happen to be near the Capital of Canada on or around July 1st, do yourself a favour and check out Parliament Hill. This is by far the most massive party you can find on Canada Day.

9:30 am – Flag-Raising Ceremony
10 am – Changing the Guard
10:30 am – RCMP Musical Ride
12:10 pm – The Canada Day Poster Challenge2009
Noon to 1:30pm – The Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages invites you to join the Governor General, the Prime Minister and thousands of Canadians on Parliament Hill to mark Canada’s hosting of the upcoming Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Once you get through all the formalities the parties will commence. Beer gardens, games, events, concerts, etc.

Concerts this year include:  Sarah McLachlan, Gordie Johnson with The Respectables, Marie-Mai, Shane Yellowbird, Marie-Jo Thério, Cirque Fantastic Concept, Hannah Georgas, Said The Whale, Nico Archambault, AlexWells, K’naan, Cassiopée, Chic Gamine and the Canadian Tenors.

The fireworks will begin shortly after 10pm and are definitely worth checking out. Buses are free after 10pm so don’t be so quick to refuse those shots of Canadian Club Whiskey. For more information on the Party on Parliament Hill, check out their website.

Fort Erie, Ontario and Buffalo, New York
Friendship Festival

A joint festival between Fort Erie, Ontario and Buffalo, New York. Part Canada Day, Part Independence Day, Part “Put down our differences and eat a corn-dog together”. This festival is typically geared towards families, as there are lots of children’s events. However, if you’re looking to have a beer with a couple strangers, stop by the beer gardens, cold beer is on tap all day.

Concerts include: David Wilcox, The Trews (Must see if you’ve never!), Rides Again, Crash Karma, The Ending

For more information on the Friendship Festival check out their website

INTERNATIONAL PAVLION on Canada Day
Granville Island, Vancouver, BC

Come and savour the food from across the globe at the 4th annual Canada Day festivities. They have musicians from around the world, including many local talents, dancers, activities, and of course the delicious food. Admission is free.

Granville Island has several events taking place around it on Canada Day, if you’re “Out & Aboot” on this day, you’ll be sure to find something worth stopping and checking out.

For more information check out their website

2009 Surrey Canada Day
Cloverdale Millennium Amphitheatre, Surrey, BC
176 Street & 64th Avenue

Tickets = FREE

Surrey is proud to feature a stage packed with music from all over Canada. The party starts at 10am and proceeds until 11pm. Bands this year include: You Say Party! We Say Die!, Dan Mangan, Current Swell, Wild Moccassins, Now Or Never Bboy Crew, and healine bands 54-40 & Bif Naked.

For more information on the event check out their website

Canada Day Halifax / Dartmouth NS
All over / Dartmouth Waterfront

Find something red & white, and make your way to Halifax for some good ol’ fashioned Canada Day fun. Enjoy a pancake breakfast, scream Oh Canada from the top of Citadel Hill and watch the Tattoo Parade in downtown Halifax. After all the daytime activities have died down, head to the free outdoor concert on Dartmouth Waterfront featuring Nova Scotias own Joel Plaskett, and other Canadian artists. Top the night off with some Fireworks over Halifax Harbour at 10 pm and you’ve got yourself an authentic Canada Day.

Visit their website for more information
Whether you can make it to any of these events or not, you’re sure to find something going on pretty much everywhere in Canada on July 1st. There’s not a city in Canada without a couple fireworks, a free concert, a beach to hang out on, or a bar to get drunk in. So find a Canada Flag, some face paint, and some fellow people to celebrate on behalf of this great country.

Canada Day Celebrations is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Whenever I travel I spread the heavenly taste of poutine to any person who is talking about their home dishes. “Oh, you’re from Italy, and you invented pizza? So what! We made poutine! You say you’re from France and you invented the baguette? Who cares! We made poutine! Oh, you’re from Columbia, and you invented Cocaine? That crap is for sissies. We made poutine!” I follow that by a quick apology for my rudeness, and explain that poutine gets me really excited.

The history of poutine is complicated, every small town in Quebec has claimed to have invented it. Battles continue to this day as to who invented it. Whatever the case may be, Quebec is the Mother to this one, birthed sometime in the 1950’s. And the world is a better place because of it.

The complexities of a good Canadian poutine are few and far between. Below is a step by step poutine recipe that will rock your socks, and thighs.

Step 1. Bake or fry a good serving of fries

Step 2. Prepare your gravy (I prefer peppercorn gravy for the extra kick, but any will do)

Step 3. Keep the gravy nice and hot (don’t burn it) until the fries are finished.

Step 4. Have Cheese curds ready, and if you really want to clog even more arteries, have some extra Grated Cheese for a little extra awesomeness.

Step 5. Place finished fries on a large dish, cover the fries thoroughly with cheese curds and grated cheese. Pour the gravy liberally over the cheese and fries combo.

Step 6. Stop drooling and dig in!

It seems to me that every picture of poutine I’m able to find doesn’t seem to do it justice. Perhaps it’s the colours, or the all around “mess” of everything. But I assure you, when the smell of melting cheese and hot gravy over some salty fries hits your nostrils, every inch of your body will yearn to have it inside of you. And yes, that was a sexual innuendo. Now go make a poutine!

How to make a true Canadian Poutine is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Eating Out
When I first arrived in New Zealand, I had been saving for so long, and avoiding eating out at all costs, that when it came time to eat while travelling, trying exotic foods like Fish n Chips (shutup…I’m from Saskatchewan) seemed like the logical thing to do. Every night. Every meal. After a month of that, I realized that at 10-15 bucks a day on food, spread out during a month, was roughly 300-400 dollars. Which was enough to keep a roof over my head for a few weeks. I’m not saying eating out is a bad thing, just be smart. Try the local delicacy, then suffer through the two minute noodles, rice, or pasta for a while. All of this extra money can go towards activities or accommodation.

Over packing
Most countries have the resources to clothe their people. It’s a blessing. Utilize it. Hauling around your old winter jacket all summer long because you might need it in 6 months is like wearing a condom all night, at a party without girls. There’s being prepared…then there’s being stupid. Clothes, gadgets, toiletries, can all be bought while travelling. No need for a 2L jug of shampoo, or 15 of your favourite shirts, or 4 different pairs of shoes. Be smart. Take what you need for where, and when you are.

Over planning
Those who plan every hostel, every activity, every stop and every meal along the way rarely seem happy. If you’ve ever run into one of these people, you know how stressed out they seem. It’s like being around a leper. You know you’re probably safe around them, it’s just sometimes uncomfortable. Backpacking is supposed to be an escape from routines. Planning ahead is smart. Over planning is stupid. If you don’t believe me, take a week off you’re over planning lifestyle and just wing it. If you find yourself on the phone with a travel agent, or online booking more than one or two activities at a time, take a few deep breathes, and stop what you’re doing. Let things fall into place. Expect the unexpected. Its not only more fun, but more mysterious as well.

Being Unrealistic
about Time and Money Ease up there Tonto. Enjoy the ride. If you’re rushing through country after country, city after city, catching only glimpses of each place, by the time you find your way back home, you’ll have trouble remembering what you did where, and when you done it. Get a feel for each city, if you enjoy it, chill out for a while, if you know it just isn’t your cup of tea, give it an extra day or two, some places grow on you. Travelling isn’t a race. Same goes for money, over budget everything and you’re more likely to make it last. Squeezing in an extra couple cities with only a hundred dollars is a recipe for disaster.

Spending too much time on computers
You probably spent several months saving up for your trip, reading up on it, now that you’re out there, what are you doing still on the computer? If you’re checking your email, updating your blog, Tweeting, or updating your Facebook status more than once a week, you’re in trouble. People rarely want to hear what type of computers or internet connections you ran into while travelling. Make some memories worth bragging about. Backpacking is all about losing touch with reality, however brief that may be. The more often your on a computer, the more attached you still are. If you’re reading this at an internet cafe, grab whoever’s sitting to your left, and ask if they want to go for a beer. If they say no, try your right.

Staying on the Tourist Trail
Lonely planet and Rough Guides are great tools for providing insight into somewhere you’ve never been. However, they should not be relied upon. Some of the best places you’ll find won’t be mentioned. Getting off the beaten path can be a great way to meet new people, and experience the “real” side of the place you’re in. When they zig, you zag. Capiche?

Not being social
Readings great, but don’t be a shut-in. Open up. It can be as simple as asking “You done with that fork?” It doesn’t take much to start a conversation. And while backpacking there is always lots to talk about. The common ground is usually travel. “Where are you from?” “Where have you been” “Where are you going?” “Who are you with?” – It doesn’t take much to get started. You never know when you’re going to meet your next travel com padre.

Comparing one country to another
When I was young my parents took me to Scotland. We were on a guided tour of the Edinburgh Castle. (I know, hypocrite) We had an old Scottish tour guide, he was explaining how this castle had never been overtaken, and was the closest thing to impenetrable around. Upon saying this an American spoke up from the back. “One nuke would take care of it” The tour guide, being old, Scottish, and witty, chimed back some derogatory spot that seemed to have put him in his place. He didn’t speak up for the rest of the tour. Don’t be that guy. Take each culture and each country, as it’s own. Reserve your bias and judgments to yourself.

Not Realizing the Glory of Pasta
If you haven’t caught on, pasta is cheap! Not only is it cheap, it goes a long way. It doesn’t take much to make pasta less boring. Try different shapes. Penne, Rigatoni, Spaghetti, Shells, Spirals. Or add some spices. Toss in some diced onions. If you’re sick of Bolognese, try something more creamy in nature. Or buy a small brick of cheese, cheese makes everything alright. At under $2.00 for over 500g of Pasta, you’d be stupid not to recognize it’s glory.

Buying Every Girl Drinks
Believe it or not, some girls go to the bar expecting drinks to be bought. I know, it’s hard to believe. But in retrospect, if I had the goods, I’d do the same. The trick is to not be an idiot. If you’re too much of a gentleman, just limit that gentlemanliness. Limit your generosity to one drink for the entire night. Not only will it save you money, you’ll be that much more conscious as to who deserves it. FYI: That blonde thing surrounded by guys, doesn’t.

Avoiding Locals
Locals not only give you a unique look into life through their eyes. They can be hospitable, friendly, caring, and fill that void for your family that you haven’t seen in months. Don’t be a freeloader. If they’re offering you a place to stay, some food to eat, help out. Whether its some chores, or just doing the dishes. Every bit counts. You’re in a unique spot where you can tell them about a land far away that they can only dream of. Introduce yourself. Locals love to hear your stories. Many people dream of travelling, few get to experience life on the road.

Drink what’s Cheap
Why would I want a burger when I have steak at home? Well you’re not at home! Take the burger. Or in this case, the cheapest booze you can find. You may be used to a higher quality of alcohol at home, but while traveling, anything goes. If you’re going for a night on the town, and know you’ll be spending a handful dollars on a pint or two, get some drinking in ahead of time. Another thing worth considering is investing in a flask. ($15-20) Every bar will give you free ice water, some will even give you free coke if you’re the “Designated Driver” – If you’re real cheap and have low morals, feel free to spike your own free drink. Just be advised you will usually get kicked out if they catch you with your own alcohol.

Beginner Backpacker Mistakes is a post from: I Backpack Canada

There are ways to make the act of eating less of a burden on your wallet. From budget supermarkets, to simple tips and tricks to save food, I’ll do my best to list them all. Now I’m not saying you shouldn’t eat, or indulge in that gourmet pizza being served next door, I’m just saying that in certain circumstances, eating is a privilege.

First stop, your local budget supermarket. Canada is packed to the nines with mass supermarkets. They can be an eyesore, due to the fact that you see them in every city, but despite they’re tyrannical crusade across the world, they can help if you’re in penny-pinching mode.

First off – The Real Canadian Superstore – Easily identifiable as the big ugly green store. They can be found in almost every major city, and offer weekly discounts, coupons, and occasionally samples (freebies!). Keep in mind, however, these guys will charge you for the plastic bags, so be green, and cheap, bring your own bags or backpack to pack your goods in. Remember to look around the front entry for free coupons or flyers with coupons in them as they can help save a couple bucks (enough for your next Tim Hortons fix)

Then there is Safeway – Yet another chain supermarket consuming North America. However, if you’re the owner of an Airmiles card, they dish out pretty good rewards. So keep an eye out on what you’re buying. It might help finance your next trip. Once again, watch for coupons and flyers as they can help out a bit.

Lastly, check out Giant Tiger, this is the ultimate place to find discount foods. You won’t find these ones often or as easy as the prior two. But Google it, or check the Yellowpages in whichever major city centre you’re in, and you’re sure to find one. Food is drastically cheaper here, and will definitely save you enough for your next pint.

Alright, so you find yourself in the entrance of a store filled with hundreds of isles full of food, now what? Well, if you’re anything like me, you’re broke, and want food thats going to keep you full, and not break the bank. So below is a list of foods that are high in satiety index – which is fancy science talk for “Keepin’ you full longer”.

• White Potatoes (The Highest!!! French Fries/Chips don’t count, sorry)
• Eggs
• Oatmeal
• Beans
• Whole Grain Bread (50% longer lasting than its white brethren)
• Rice
• Popcorn (Twice as filling as a chocolate bar or peanuts)

Keep in mind however, that despite filling you up, and being relatively good on your budget, there is a reason people call tasty foods, “Food for the soul” – If you’re having a downer of a day, indulge, keep sane, sometimes a little comfort food is enough to lift the spirits. I, personally, take Sweet Thai Chilli Sauce everywhere I go. Rice is bland…Chilli it! Hate the taste of eggs…Chilli it! Sandwiches boring you…Chilli it! Oatmeal tasting like cardboard…Chilli It! You get the point.

If you’re with a group of other starving backpackers, get everyone to chip in a couple bucks, and make huge meal for everyone. If they hate you’re cooking, tell them to “Chilli it!” Food shouldn’t be a chore, and something you dread, find ways to make the best out of what you’ve got. Some of the greatest chefs in the world came from poor families, who grew up learning to make the best out of a bad situation. Learn from them, experiment, and have fun!

Eating on a Budget is a post from: I Backpack Canada