More about Calgary

The city is located in the province of Alberta and is a place of millionaires. With a robust economy, the city is marked by large number affluent natives hosting entertainment scenes. It is also well known for its largest outdoor event called ‘The Calgary Stampede.’

History

With the arrival of European settlers, Calgary saw a transformation from a sleepy hamlet into a major agricultural and commercial center. With the establishment of the Canadian Pacific Railway, it soon saw a transition to a town dealing extensively in cattle marketing. Another famous event that made Calgary famous was the Calgary Stampede. However, since the discovery of oil in Alberta, Calgary suddenly saw a boom in its economy and with various subsidiary industries seizing the opportunity, there was no looking back for Calgary.

Geography

Located between the temperate grasslands and the Canadian Rockies, this third largest Canadian city is drained by two rivers – the Bow and the Elbow. Calgary is therefore in a transition zone with dry, dense vegetation with vast river valleys and mountain slopes. However, such variations have led to a unique weather system, and the inhabitants experience extremes of both heat and cold on most occasions.

Climate/Weather

Although the climate of Calgary is humid continental, the winters can be harsh. The severity of winters is considerably moderated by the Snow Eater or Chinook, a local warm, dry wind. Recurrent thunderstorms during summer are common.

Demographics

Having a very high population density, the growth rate of the population in Calgary is comparatively higher. It does have the advantage of demographic dividend with the median age being 36 years. More than a quarter of the population comprises of minority groups, mainly South Asian. Aboriginal community is just over 2%.
International migration has primarily resulted in the high growth rate of the population even as economically, the city thrives.

Economy/Business

After the discovery of oil in Alberta Province, Calgary’s fortunes turned thanks to the oil boom. Skyscrapers soon took center stage as the economy took off. However, being so closely tied to the crude hurt its economy in the 1990s resulting in a depreciating CAD. Quickly realizing that the over-reliance on the oil sector could hurt them in the long run, Calgary began to grow culturally as well with the goal of attracting attention on the world stage. Such diversification led to a shift in focus towards tourism and manufacturing.

More about Calgary, Alberta

One of the larger cities in Canada, Calgary has a unique culture, to accompany a growing population, and fascinating outdoor beauty. Despite being in Canada, Calgary has a culture more indicative of the western United States, with cowboy hats and prairie land a staple of this city. Every July, the city has the Calgary Stampede, which is a large event that includes a rodeo, parade, shopping and other exciting events. Because of Calgary’s urban location, there are plenty of invigorating activities to participate in. Whether it is visiting one of the several museums scattered across the city, going to the Calgary Zoo, or any of the other fascinating locations throughout the city, Calgary will not disappoint.

A large part of Calgary’s appeal comes from its proximity to incredible natural wonders, as well as alluring outdoor events. Residents and Visitors can enjoy the outdoors through hiking, kayaking, canoeing, rafting, rock climbing, horseback riding, and much more. Best of all, Calgary is only a one hour drive the prestigious Rocky Mountains, with a plethora of outdoor experiences awaiting.

Calgary is a great city to visit. If you’re going to travel to the city, you’ll find plenty of things to do. Check Yelp reviews for info on top restaurateurs and hotels. Services like KnightsbridgeFX, Travelex and Trasnferwise can also be a lifesaver when traveling abroad. KnightsbridgeFX offers great exchange rates whether the client sells (receives Canadian) or the client buys (pays Canadian).