North America stretches from the icy regions of the Arctic in the north to the tropical beaches of Central America in the south. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean in the east and the Pacific Ocean in the west, the continent offers impressive geographical diversity. It includes countries such as the USA, Canada and Mexico, as well as the smaller states of Central America and the islands of the Caribbean.
North America has a wide range of climates, from the frigid Arctic of Canada to the hot deserts of the southwestern US and Mexico. The coastal regions on the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans often offer milder temperatures, while the interior can be hot in summer and cold in winter. Tropical regions such as the Caribbean and Florida offer consistently warm weather, while Canada and the Rocky Mountains offer winter sports. The best time to visit depends largely on the activity, but is usually between spring and autumn.
Known for its iconic sights, North America is a melting pot of cultures. From awe-inspiring national parks such as the Grand Canyon in the USA and Banff in Canada, to vibrant metropolises such as New York City, Los Angeles and Mexico City, the continent offers countless highlights. The Caribbean islands, with their crystal-clear waters and laid-back atmosphere, also attract millions of visitors every year.
The people of North America are known for their openness, diversity and innovative spirit. In the USA, the individualistic lifestyle of the ‘American Dream’ dominates, while Canada is appreciated for its friendliness, tolerance and nature-loving way of life. Mexico and the Caribbean are known for strong family ties and a vibrant culture of music, dance and festivals. Lifestyles range from high-tech urban living in cities such as New York or Toronto to relaxed beach life in Florida or the Bahamas.
Travelling in North America is easy thanks to a dense network of airports, highways and railways. In the USA and Canada, rental cars are particularly popular for exploring the vastness of the continent. Amtrak and VIA Rail trains offer scenic routes, while buses, subways and trams make it easy to get around in cities. In Mexico and Central America, intercity buses are a common and inexpensive way to travel between cities.
North American cuisine is a blend of traditions and cultures. In the USA, burgers, barbecue and the variety of international cuisine in cities such as New York and Los Angeles dominate. Canada is known for its poutine, maple syrup and fresh fish such as salmon. Mexico offers bold flavours from tacos and enchiladas to mole and tamales. The Caribbean also brings tropical flair to the plate with dishes such as jerk chicken, rice and beans and fresh seafood.
