Operation North America: The Ultimate Continental Expedition
As a completionist and an avid lover of ambitious goals, I decided to take my previous goal of visiting all 50 US states to the next level by embarking on an expedition to explore the entire continent of North America. This grand endeavor encompasses the 10 provinces and 3 territories of Canada, as well as the 31 states of Mexico. It’s more than just a travel goal—it’s a mission to immerse myself in the diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences that make up this vast and varied continent.
First Stop, Canada:
Planning a trip to visit all 10 provinces and 3 territories of Canada by train and car is an ambitious yet exhilarating endeavor. I’ve thoroughly researched popular rail routes like VIA Rail’s “The Canadian” and the Rocky Mountaineer, which will take me across the heart of the country, offering comfort and the chance to witness the diverse landscapes in a way that driving simply cannot replicate. While the cost of this journey can be quite steep, ranging from as low as $500 to as high as $4,000, I firmly believe that the experience will be worth every penny. Once I arrive in Canada, I plan to rent a car, which will enable me to explore remote areas and traverse the parklands at my own leisurely pace. Canada boasts an impressive 48 national parks, each offering a unique blend of landscapes and ecosystems. Many of these parks, such as Banff, Jasper, Yoho, Waterton Lakes, and Fundy National, are renowned for their breathtaking beauty and unparalleled outdoor recreational opportunities. From the snow-capped peaks of the Rockies to the misty shores of the Atlantic, every national park will offer new adventures and memories.
Next Stop, Mexico:
Navigating Mexico presents a bit more of a challenge. The primary obstacles are logistical, linguistic, and safety-related. While the majority of Mexican states are generally safe, there are a few regions that have been flagged for safety concerns, including Guanajuato, Baja California, Mexico State, Michoacán, Chihuahua, Jalisco, and Sonora. I’m still in the early stages of planning the Mexican leg of this journey, but it appears that planes, buses, and cars will be the most practical and reliable modes of transportation. I’ll need to meticulously plan routes and accommodations to ensure a smooth and secure experience while exploring Mexico’s diverse regions. Each of Mexico’s 31 states offers unique historical, cultural, and geographical experiences, ranging from the beaches of the Yucatán to the mountains of Chiapas. I’m thrilled about the prospect of immersing myself in the country’s rich heritage and exploring various attractions, such as the vibrant cities of Mexico City and Guadalajara, the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan and Chichen Itza.
This journey across North America promises to be an unforgettable adventure, testing my endurance and curiosity while providing an opportunity to truly comprehend the immense cultural and geographical diversity of this extraordinary continent.
