Author Archives: Hans Tammemagi

Haida Gwaii: A Mist-enshrouded Showcase of Haida Culture 

Loo Taas (Wave Eater) by Bill Reid

Haida Gwaii, which literally translates to “Islands of the Haida People,” is an archipelago located off the northern Pacific coast of Canada. It’s a place that’s immensely rich in culture, and spending time here allows visitors to tap into a history and way of life that’s filled to the brim with valuable lessons and insight. […]

An Adventurer’s Guide to Salt Spring Island in British Columbia

Sunset on Salt Spring Island in BC

Salt Spring Island, so named for salt springs in the northern part of the island, is one of the Gulf Islands, located between the Strait of Georgia and the mainland of BC. Local expert Hans Tammemagi lets us know how we can embrace “the extremes” of the island, and all that aboard his trusty 50 […]

A Niagara Falls Weekend Getaway: A Quick-Hitting Itinerary for the Adventurous

The MistRider Zipline in Niagara Falls

If you’re the type of person who likes to have a jam-packed itinerary filled with some great adventure-filled memories then this Niagara Falls, Ontario weekend guide is what you need. Longtime We Explore Canada contributor Hans Tammemagi breaks down how to get the most out of your Niagara Falls Weekend Getaway. The Niagara Wonder pounds […]

Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site: The Largest Historical Reconstruction in North America!

The Fortress of Louisbourgh National Historic Site

Take a 35 minute drive from Sydney, Nova Scotia, and arrive in 18th century French colonial life. We Explore Canada contributor Hans Tammemagi takes us back in time, and lets us know why this is his single favourite National Historic Site in the Great White North. The Fortress of Louisbourg sprawls on Cape Breton’s rocky […]

Spending Canada Day on Parliament Hill: A Moment to Go Back in Time, and Be Present

Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Canada

Parliament Hill is one of the most iconic places in Canada, especially if you’re spending Canada Day there. Hans spent the day there with his daughter, and his experience was nothing short of unforgettable. On Canada Day, there is no place I’d rather be than packed like a sardine into the tumultuous, exuberant crowd on […]

Wanuskewin Heritage Park: An Intriguing Showcase of Northern Plains Indigenous Culture

Wanuskewin Heritage Park

Wanuskewin is a cultural complex that honours the history and artwork of First Nations People, with no shortage of exhibits and events. It’s an archeological site and non-profit cultural and historical centre just outside Saskatoon that We Explore Canada contributor Hans Tammemagi visited to help you do the same! Three bison, large and fearsome, charge […]

The Top Things to Do in Squamish, BC for Outdoor Adventure Lovers

Squamish, BC

Squamish, BC is often considered the outdoor adventure headquarters of Canada. Hans Tammemagi walks us through exactly why that is, and how to make the most of your visit! A giant rock, called the Stawamus Chief, towers over Squamish, dominating and massive. Standing 700 metres high at the southern entrance to the town on the scenic […]

Exploring Dawson City, Yukon: Going Back in Time in the Home of the Klondike Gold Rush

Dawson City, Yukon

Dawson City, officially the City of Dawson, is a town in the Yukon that was the headquarters for the Klondike Gold Rush (1896-1899). We Explore Canada contributor visited during Discovery Days to share what you need to prioritize on your next visit to Yukon’s second largest city. As my mind filled with visions of gold, […]

The Golden Larches of the Kootenays: A Brief Three Week Window to Take in Pure Magic

Golden Larches, BC

British Columbia is known worldwide for its towering trees, but there’s something special about the larches. Their golden hue, their brief time horizon, and their connection to local indigenous culture. Hans Tammemogi was there with his notebook and camera to capture the magic. Larch trees are magical, behaving strangely while creating unbelievable beauty. Entire slopes […]

Visiting the Great Canadian Beer Festival in Victoria, BC: The Oldest Craft Beer Festival in Canada!

Great Canadian Beer Festival

Hans Tammemagi visited to see which Canadian breweries were in attendance at Canada’s oldest beer festival, to learn more about the famed liquid, and, of course, to sip on a few himself. A cloudless sky formed a blue roof over the Great Canadian Beer Festival, where thirsty throngs tasted more than 250 flavour-rich beers and […]