Vermont, they say, is the big sky country. Go a little further north, however, and those skies dwindle into insignificance. You are now in Canada, a massive country that brings you the ruggedness of the Rocky Mountains, the vast expanse of the Great Plains and one of the best ski resorts in the world, Whistler.

Vancouver, though, is where to begin - a cosmopolitan city on the west coast, named after Captain George Vancouver in the 1850s. This thriving city is home to a multitude of cultures and languages, a feast of international restaurants, excellent shopping outlets and great nightlife.

Two hours north of Vancouver on the sea-to-sky highway, the magic begins in earnest – you lose yourself on a breathtakingly scenic journey where towering pine trees reflect in the glassy lakes on the climb towards the mountains. There you’ll find Whistler, best known for its powdery snow and unrivalled skiing, which is also a perfect summer retreat. Take the train through the mountains, picnic at the Lost Lakes, take a helicopter ride up to Rainbow Mountain – so many endless choices.