Comprehensive Guide to Studying in Canada

Studying in Canada is a great opportunity at all levels, since not only will you be able to study in one of the most valued educational systems in the world, but you will also live in a very socially advanced country with an incredible quality of life , in which Sports and outdoor activities are highly encouraged… and the landscapes in which to practice them are spectacular even without your favorite Instagram filter.

If you want to find out about all the advantages and opportunities offered by studying in Canada, keep reading because we will tell you everything below.

Advantages of studying in Canada

Canada is the union of many different cultures and heritages. Luckily, it has taken the best of each house and, with the dedication of a government very involved in the well-being of its inhabitants, it has greatly improved it.

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There is a Canada for every type of person, thanks to its relaxed, well-balanced, multicultural lifestyle . In Canada, you will enjoy both your free time and the time you dedicate to work or study . Sound crazy? Let’s look at 11 of the many advantages of studying in Canada.

education is at the very top

As we already told you, Canada has an educational system valued worldwide , made up of a wide variety of renowned universities and supported by a very complete network of schools with a technical and practical approach. 

This type of program stands out as one of the best ways to prepare the great professionals of the future. 

Ready to stand out in your job and earn a good salary? Well, you will be delighted to know that Canadian schools and universities are famous for being part of the education and CVs of many world leaders, and also for giving access to the best salaries in the global business scene.

Offers the possibility of studying English and French

Canada had for many years the French colony of Acadia , and for this reason much of the country retains French as its second official language. Moreover, in the states of Quebec, New Brunswick and Manitoba it is considered the first official language.

This makes Canada the ideal place for those who already know French and for all those who want to learn this language in order to access more job opportunities in the future.

In Canada, you will be able to study professional training courses, as well as language courses: English, French or both languages ​​at the same time .

Post-study work

If you are looking for a country in which to establish your home with an eye to the future, this could be Canada. The Canadian government offers numerous benefits to all well-educated individuals who want to contribute their knowledge and skills to help the country remain at the forefront of innovation and maintain its renowned economic and social prosperity.

To this end, it has created several programs that facilitate the application for permanent residence for international students who have completed their training in the country.

Your CV will be more attractive

Studying in Canada will be a story that your friends and future employers will want to hear. The Canadian educational system is designed to foster a series of qualities and ways of thinking that will make you stand out in any job interview.

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In addition, most of the educational programs in the country have an approach that mixes theory with practice. This gives rise to more complete training and much more self-confident young professionals. And the companies know it!

The quality of life is the most

One of the most striking things about Canada is how well everything works. It is a very safe country, politically calm, prosperous and stable economically and socially . The unemployment rate is very low and their wages are high. 

And for this reason, Canada always appears at the top of the rankings of countries with the best quality of life in the world.

In addition, Canadians are very friendly, welcoming and calm people who are also very used to interacting with people from other countries.

Landscapes that will leave you breathless

Canada has something to say to all those who love nature and want to live more in contact with it: come and stay! 

Canada is known for its mountainous landscapes that are reflected in lakes of icy and crystal clear water and for its beautiful forests full of deciduous trees that change color with the change of seasons.

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If you are one of those who are looking forward to the first snowfall to go to the mountains to ski or snowboard, in Canada you can enjoy fresh snow almost 365 days a year, in one of its many ski resorts. Some of them are world reference in the world of winter sports.

Canadians are good people

Canada is a land of colonies and settlements , so they are very used to welcoming people from all over the world with open arms .

In addition, its political and economic situation has been stable and prosperous for many years, a fact that has contributed to Canadians having a very open and trusting mentality that will make you feel very welcome as soon as you land in Canada.

a multicultural country

When you come to study in Canada you will realize that living here is like living in several countries at the same time. 

Canada’s population is known to be one of the most diverse in the world. In the same city, communities from all over the globe have lived together daily, for generations and in complete harmony: Europeans, South Americans, Asians …

Everyone contributes, understands each other and collaborates in their own way to Canada’s economy and culture. And they will also bring a lot to your life!

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The atmosphere of their cities

Multiculturalism is a key point to understand the attractiveness of Canadian cities. Something interesting is always happening here! In the main cities of Canada you can enjoy hundreds of activities and plans of all kinds every day

Thanks to the mixture of cultures , the gastronomy is spectacular and the fact that the country is committed to innovation and new technologies , makes living in Montreal , Toronto and Vancouver like living in the future.

The scene of these cities is vibrant , very genuine and with a beautiful obsession for always wanting to integrate a bit of nature within the cities , so you will not have to go far to enjoy a picnic in a park or a game of soccer . hockey on a frozen lake. Canada got you! 

Tranquility and security

Studying in Canada is for all those who value tranquility and security. Even its most populous cities, Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal , are on the World’s Safest Cities lists.

The pace of life here is relaxed, and everything runs like clockwork, including transportation that is efficient and punctual . When you arrive in Canada, you will surely love the laid-back lifestyle that Canadians preach.

You will live an unforgettable experience

Living away from home changes your life. And if you also choose a place that can contribute to your personal and professional growth , then much better. If you come to study in Canada, you can feel the magic of the first times almost every day.

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Things as simple as looking for a flat, attending a new school, taking the metro or doing the shopping will be an adventure… and that, without forgetting the great adventures that you will experience traveling around the country .

In addition, the best thing about choosing to study in Canada is that you will meet a lot of people like you with whom you will make friends that may be for life.

What requirements do I need to study in Canada?

If after reading all the opportunities that Canada has in store for you, you feel like going to discover them for yourself, don’t worry, we are going to help you with that!

And to begin with, congratulations! It is more than likely that you meet all the requirements to study in Canada.

The only thing you will need is to collect a series of documents to apply for one of the visas with which you can study in Canada.

The general requirements that you have to meet are:

• Valid and current passport for the duration of your stay in Canada.
• Certificate of studies .
• English level certificate obtained through an official accredited school such as IELTS or TOEFL (Only if you are going to take a Vocational Training course or university degree).
• biometric tests
• A clean police record of criminal charges.
• Show that you have enough savings to pay for your stay in Canada.
• Be enrolled in an educational center accredited by the Canadian government.
• A motivation letter explaining why you want to come to study in Canada.
• Fill out and send the corresponding visa application.

What courses can I study in Canada?

If you have ever dreamed of being something, it is very likely that Canada, with one of the most varied educational offers in the world , has a perfect course for you.

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Here you can receive training for everything you can imagine, from language courses , through professional training courses , to university degrees and doctorates .

The only important thing to decide which course you will take in Canada will be your wishes and the time you have.

Whether you barely speak English or French, or if you are looking to learn one of these languages ​​in a more professional way to expand your job opportunities, there is a perfect language course for you in Canada.

The courses vary in duration and objectives , but all focus on making you feel more and more confident writing, speaking, listening and expressing yourself in English or French.

Language courses (English and French)

In general, in Canada you can take five types of language courses

• General language courses: in which you will learn the basics of the language.
• Preparatory course for official tests: to prepare you to get an official English or French certificate.
• Academic language courses: you will learn to express your ideas perfectly, to debate and make presentations.
• Language courses for business: for those who want to perfect their language in order to open up to the international market and be able to access more job opportunities in the business world.
• Intensive courses : like general courses, but condensed into a few weeks.

Vocational training

In Canada you can choose from a wide variety of courses in which you will learn everything you need to become a great professional and be able to immediately enter the world of work. 

These are Vocational Training courses such as Diplomas with or without Co-Op .

Of this type, the most interesting are the courses with Co-Op, which basically means that they include a practical part. In this way, the Co-Op courses are divided into a theoretical and a practical block. During this last block, internships are carried out in real companies that, in addition, are normally paid.

The courses with Co-Op have a very good reputation , both by local and foreign companies , as well as by students, since one of its main advantages is that during the theoretical block, you will be able to work 20 hours a week , and during the vacations and the internship period you will be able to work 40 hours in a company related to what you are studying. Good for your pocket and for your resume!

Also, if you want to continue living in Canada when you finish your studies , if you take one of these courses at a public College you can apply for a Post Study Work Permit .

Even so, the option of doing a course without Co-Op (without practices) is also valuable. These courses are slightly cheaper and, most importantly, they also allow you to work part-time during the course and full-time during vacation periods.

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So if your budget is a bit tighter or you want to experience Canada in a more relaxed way without the pressures of having to “do your own thing”, a course without Co-Op is your ideal option .

University studies or master’s degrees

A very good way to make your CV stand out from the rest of the candidates is to do your university studies in Canada. 

The quality of its universities is appreciated throughout the world and there are also many scholarships designed both to help the best students to continue their studies and to support innovative projects in the most advanced fields such as research and technology.

In addition, once you complete your higher studies , the government will make it very easy for you to obtain permanent residence in the country .

Do you want to know more about studying at a university in Canada? Keep reading!

What is the best city to live in Canada?

These are the main cities where you can study in Canada:

toronto

How about living in the biggest city in all of Canada ? With its almost 3 million inhabitants , of which half were not born in Canada, in Toronto it will be very difficult for you to get bored. 

Here you will always have something to do or see. Cultural events of all kinds, live music , great restaurants and a city full of green areas where you can unwind.

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In addition, Toronto is very safe and extremely well connected, so you can go from the hustle and bustle of the center and its skyscrapers to the tranquility of its residential neighborhoods in no time.

Of course, get ready to live a long and snowy winter , perfect to fully enjoy the snow and the warmth of the heating. 

vancouver

Vancouver is the ideal city for those who love to do outdoor activities . People here are very active and enjoy their free time kayaking, trekking, ice hockey or going to the (ice-cold) beach .

Although slightly smaller than Toronto, in Vancouver you will never be alone. The city has 60,000 inhabitants and one of the liveliest cultural scenes in the country. 

Perhaps because being located in a strategic enclave on the Canadian Pacific coast , Vancouver was for years the country’s main port, through which goods and people from all over the world passed every day. 

Many knew how to appreciate everything that this city had to offer and stayed, like the 30% of the population of Asian origin that you can find in its famous and colorful Chinatown. 

Vancouverites have a very open mindset and are very warm towards foreigners. So don’t be surprised if as soon as you arrive you already make a great group of friends with whom to discover Vancouver. 

Montréal

The university city par excellence and one that breathes the most history . With almost 400 years behind it, Montreal has a bohemian charm that lovers of architecture, art and endless walks will appreciate very well, since its streets, museums and parks are the perfect setting for it.

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Montreal is the largest city in the province of Quebec and is famous for being one of the cities where French is the first official language and for being the birthplace of ice hockey, the national sport. 

Many students of English rule out Montreal because they think that they will not be able to improve their English if they live with people who speak French to them, but the truth is that in Montreal there are more people who speak English than French. 

In fact, the Government of Quebec, to prevent French from disappearing, offers a payment to those who study French.

What are the types of accommodation in Canada?

Now that you know a little about the best cities to study in Canada, we are going to tell you about the types of accommodation in each of them.

backpackers

These hostels or backpacker hostels will be the perfect place to stay during the first days in the city. In them you will have the opportunity to meet many people from other countries, from backpackers who have traveled to the country to enjoy its nature, to people like you, who are looking to study and  work in Canada.

One of the comforts of these places is that in most of them you will have a cleaning service, so you can concentrate on looking for a new home and you will not have to waste time on those things.

shared house

Sharing a flat in any city in the world can be one of the best decisions of your life, if only Monica and Rachel from the legendary series “ Friends” tell you about it . 

If you have a bit of luck and connect with your classmates, you will not only save costs, but you will end up sharing a flat with your best friends . And can you think of a better plan? 

Student’s residence

As we told you before, Canada is a country with a high-level educational system, so there are many foreign students who decide to take an educational program in this country. 

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That is why if you decide to stay in one of the student residences in Toronto, Vancouver or Montreal, you will also have the opportunity to meet many people from all nationalities of the world.

If you are looking for a place with atmosphere and where you can forget about cleaning and even cooking, you will like living in a residence. 

In addition, you can choose between sharing a room or having your own room depending on the privacy you want to have.

canadian family

We already told you at the beginning, Canadians are very welcoming people, so much so that many of them host foreign students in their homes for several seasons.

Living in a Canadian family has many advantages, such as language immersion or authentically living Canadian life.

Other types of accommodation in Canada

But if you are looking for more privacy and living alone is your thing , there are also other options such as living in a condo or  a basement.

The first are multi-dwelling buildings that share various services such as common libraries or gyms . Their price will vary depending on their age and the services they offer. 

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The basement are basements or ground floors, most of them are studios or small houses, quite cheap and ideal if you are looking to move in with your partner. The only drawback is that being a basement it doesn’t have too many windows.

How much does it cost to study in Canada?

Are you already beginning to imagine your life in the country of the maple leaf? You may already have a little more clarity about which city to live in or where to stay, but before you pack your bags and move to the other side of the world, you will surely want to know how much it costs to study in Canada .

The truth is that the price of your adventure will depend a lot on several factors , so are going to review each one of them.

Expenses before traveling to Canada

Course payment

One of the first expenses that you will have to count on will be the payment of the course that you are going to do in Canada . The price will depend on the type of course in which you decide to enroll. 

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Thus, depending on whether you choose a language course, a professional training course or a university course, the cost of studying in Canada will vary.

visa fees

There are many types of visas that will allow you to live in Canada. Depending on your situation and the visa you request, the cost of the procedure will have one price or another, but if what you want is to study, we already anticipate that the price of the student visa fees is $ 150 CAD .

Health insurance

And if you want to apply for a visa, you will need to have health insurance that covers you throughout your stay in the country.

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Plane tickets

The price of fuel has notably increased the cost of flights, which is why we recommend you buy your flight as soon as possible so that you can buy a ticket at its cheapest price. On average, flights to Canada usually cost around $ 500 CAD per person. 

First weeks of accommodation

As we told you before, during your first days in Canada you will need temporary accommodation. Depending on where you stay and the characteristics of your room, your stay will be more or less economical. 

For example, it will not be the same if you decide to sleep in a single room with its own bathroom than in a shared one. But usually spending the night in a Canadian backpacker usually costs around $ 20 CAD. 

enough money to keep you

This will depend a lot on your style and rhythm of life, since you will not spend the same if you go out every day than if you make more relaxed plans at home. Still, on average our students spend about $1,100 CAD per month. 

Expenses when you are already in Canada

Accommodation

Share a flat, live in a residence or in a basement… Do you already know where you are going to stay?

The city, the neighborhood and the type of accommodation will determine something decisive in the cost of your stay. 

For example, in Toronto prices range from $300 CAD (if you stay with a Canadian family) to $1,000 CAD or more (which can cost you a room in a shared flat downtown).

Transportation

Canada has a good transport system, but moving around Montreal is not the same as moving around Vancouver. For example, public transport in Toronto costs $3.25 CAD per trip, while in Vancouver it is $3.00 CAD and in Montreal a single ticket will cost you $3.5 CAD. 

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Thus , depending on the city in which you are, the price of transport will vary but also what is included in each ticket. 

Food

On average, filling your car with food for the entire month in Canada will cost you around $300 – $400 CAD, that’s not counting all those nights you decide to order delivery.

Leisure

When it comes to making plans, Canada offers you thousands of options, but be careful not all of them are free, some like going to the movies or visiting a museum are paid.

Calculate that whatever plan you make, it is possible that in each leisure weekend you will invest around $100  CAD.

telephone and others

Once you arrive in Canada. A team will help you choose the best and cheapest company, but if you want to have a phone, calculate that the price of your bill will be between $45 – $ 60 CAD.

Scholarships to study in Canada

Maybe after all these calculations your pocket has started to shake. Is Canada out of your budget? Calm! There are scholarships to study in the North American country. We are going to tell you what they are and what you need to get them.

There are currently scholarships offered by the Government of Spain and Canada. The moopular are focused on the area of ​​science and research such as those of the National Science and Technology Council and those offered by the Government of Quebec for Spanish researchers or postgraduate students.

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But in addition, there are also scholarships that promote outstanding students from other nationalities,  allowing them to carry out exchanges with Canadian educational centers to enhance their CVs.

Examples of these scholarships are the Emerging Leaders of the Americas Scholarship and the Global Link Research Stays Scholarship .

Requirements to obtain a scholarship to study in Canada

To apply for a scholarship you need to have the following requirements:

• Request it one year in advance
• Have the acceptance of a Canadian educational center .
• Have a score between 550 and 580 points in a TOEFL English exam
• Submit CVs, notes and letters of recommendation in English or French , depending on the institution (remember that French is the official language in Quebec).

Can I work in Canada with a student visa?

Yes, but as long as your course is not a language course.

To be able to work and study in Canada , you can take Vocational Training courses , such as a diploma with or without Co-Op (internship) or higher education, such as a university degree or a master ‘s degree .

With any of these options you will be able to work part-time (20 hours per week) during the course and full-time (40 hours per week) during vacation periods and, in the case of Co-Op courses, also during internship periods.

Most common jobs for students in Canada

In Canada there are all kinds of jobs for students, and accessing one or the other will largely depend on your level of English. 

If your level of English is low , you will be able to access many job opportunities within the hospitality, construction and cleaning sectors.

These jobs are usually temporary and do not require many special skills , so they are perfect to make some money without spending your life on it while you study.

Can I work in Canada with a student visa?

Yes, but as long as your course is not a language course.

To be able to work and study in Canada , you can take Vocational Training courses , such as a diploma with or without Co-Op (internship) or higher education, such as a university degree or a master ‘s degree .

With any of these options you will be able to work part-time (20 hours per week) during the course and full-time (40 hours per week) during vacation periods and, in the case of Co-Op courses , also during internship periods.

Most common jobs for students in Canada

In Canada there are all kinds of jobs for students, and accessing one or the other will largely depend on your level of English. 

If your level of English is low , you will be able to access many job opportunities within the hospitality, construction and cleaning sectors.

These jobs are usually temporary and do not require many special skills , so they are perfect to make some money without spending your life on it while you study.

How to find a job in Canada?

The best way to find a job in Canada is by recommendation. 

Networking takes a lot here is very popular , which, although it sounds very sophisticated, is nothing more than moving around the right circles, being open to meeting people in potential environments and letting it slip that you are looking for a job. In this way, when someone in your circle finds out about a job, he will think of you and recommend you.

You can also attend events related to the sectors that interest you , visit employment portals , such as Indeed, or go out with little shame to knock on the doors of companies in which you would like to work.

In any case, you will need an updated and Canadian-style CV to be able to send it by email or distribute it by hand.

What are salaries like in Canada?

In Canada, the minimum wage in 2020 is between $11 CAD and $15 CAD per hour , varying mainly depending on the city you are in and the sector you work in.

The lowest salaries are given in dependent jobs and hospitality. But if you are looking for a job as a waiter you will also take tips, which in Canada are mandatory.

In other jobs, such as warehouse or sales clerk positions, salaries typically range from $13 CAD to $14 CAD.

And if you speak English well? Well, your salary will be higher, and you can go on to earn between $15 CAD and $20 CAD per hour. 

Do I have to file taxes as a student in Canada?

Yes . Anyone who is in Canada with a study or work permit must file an income tax return, even if they have no income.

It is presented annually before April 30 and with respect to the previous year. For example, in April 2023 the tax return for 2022 will be filed.

Can I renew the student visa in Canada?

Yes , you can renew your student visa giving at least 30 days notice before your current visa expires.

Frequently asked questions about studying in Canada

Do you have any more questions about studying in Canada? Find yours in the following questions.

Do I need a level of English to study in Canada?

No. _ What’s more, many people come here to be able to learn English . The best way to start speaking and loosen up with the language is to enroll in an English course in Canada.

I can’t wait to start my course, how long do I have to wait?

You’re in luck, because in Canada the courses start almost any Monday of the year, so you can come whenever you want.

How many hours of class are taught per week?

It depends on the course and your desire to dedicate yourself to your studies. There are courses of 15, 20, 25 or 30 hours a week.

Can I work with the student visa?

Yes, with the student visa you can work part-time (20 hours per week) during the course and full-time (40 hours per week) during the vacation weeks and, in the event that your course includes a practical block, during the periods of practices. And yes, with a part-time job you will earn more than enough to cover your expenses and stay in Canada.

You have to keep in mind that if you want to do a language course in Canada, you will not be able to work.

Will I find a job with a low level of English?

Yes. When your level of English is not very good, you can start by applying to unskilled jobs where you don’t have to interact much with other people.

In a short time you will loosen up and you will be able to apply for better jobs. And if you search hard, it might even be related to what you’re studying.

Do I have to apply for my own visa?

Of course not! At Dingoos we have a team of Visa Experts who will take care of carrying out all the procedures of your visa for you.

Can I get a student visa without English level?

Yes , one of the main advantages of studying in Canada is that applying for a student visa does not require a certain level of English.

Can I study in Canada if I am over 30 years old?

Of course! The student visa in Canada has no age limit, so anyone who wants to live an incredible experience can apply.

Can I live in different cities in Canada throughout my experience?

For most travelers, the answer is yes!

Tell us what you want to study and at Dingoos we will take care of drawing up a plan tailored to you so that you can live in several cities during your stay in Canada.

What are the most common courses to study in Canada?

The most popular courses in Canada are English and Vocational Training courses.

Within the latter are the Co-Op courses , which incorporate an internship part in a company related to your field of study.

These courses are very good and cover many disciplines , such as Photography, Business, Marketing, Sports…

Can I combine an English course with a professional course?

Of course! A good combination is to start with an intensive English course and, when you have the desired level, continue with the Vocational Training course of your choice. Count on us to see your options and choose the one that best suits your goals and budget.

How far in advance do I have to start the process to study in Canada?

We recommend that you contact us at least 5 months before the date you want to start your adventure in Canada. The process is long, but you don’t have to worry about anything, we’ll take care of it!

How long can I stay studying in Canada?

The duration of your visa will depend on the duration of your course in Canada. For example, if you decide to study an English course for 24 weeks, your visa will be valid for 24 weeks + the vacation weeks granted to you by immigration.

Can I stay in Canada after my visa expires?

Yes. In order to stay in Canada after your visa expires, you will need to enroll in another course and apply for a new visa.

Do I have to pay for my entire course in advance?

No, many schools offer the option of paying in installments in order to adapt to the needs of the students. 

What if, while in Canada, I decide to return early?

Nothing happens. If you have to return to your country before the end of your course, we will study your case and help you negotiate the cancellation of your course with the school .

How much money is needed to study in Canada?

That will depend on the course, the city and the school you choose. But to give you an idea, studying a 6-month English course in Canada can mean an investment of between €3,500 and €5,500.

Can I go with my partner if I am going to study in Canada?

Yes, it is possible that you come to study with your partner in Canada, and as always, it is a matter of seeing what is best for you.

If you enroll in a public college program (does not apply to private colleges), your partner may accompany you by applying for a work visa.

Still, public colleges and universities are more expensive than private institutions. For the price of a course at a public college , you and your partner could each study a course at a private college.

How do I go to study in Canada?

To study in Canada you will need to have a valid passport for the next six months, enroll in a course certified by the Canadian government and take out health insurance . 

Can I get residency in Canada?

Yes. Obtaining permanent residence in Canada is possible for international students.

If you are looking at your options to obtain permanent residence in Canada, studying at a Canadian public college for at least 8 months is your best bet. 

In this way you will be able to access the Post-Graduation Work Permit , It is an ideal permit for those who see their future in Canada, since it is a very good way to get work experience in the country, one of the most important requirements to be able to apply later for permanent residence with the Express Entry program .

What activities can I do during my stay in Canada?

Practically, almost everything you can think of. Canada is the second largest country in the world, it has an incredible nature where you can practice adventure sports, also with a lot of multicultural richness so you can discover different cultures without leaving the country and many cities to get lost walking through its streets.