Chinese are answering Canada's call

A Chinese traveler drives across Canada's British Columbia, where he experiences natural scenic spots and wildlife.[Photo provided to China Daily]

Zhang Donghai was delighted during his drive across Canada's British Columbia and Alberta last autumn.

"It was great," the Beijinger recalls.

"There were only a few cars on the road. Landscapes changed along the way."

He was especially taken with the Icefields Parkway running from Banff National Park to Jasper National Park.

"The waterfalls, prairies and snowcaps were picturesque," Zhang says.

It was easy to buy hiking equipment in Banff, he says.

"Backpackers were everywhere."

He also saw wildlife when he stopped at Bow and Hector lakes.

China has pushed out France this year to become Canada's third-biggest source of tourists, Canada's tourism authority reports.

Over 600,000 Chinese visited in the first three months, up 20 percent over the same period last year. Vancouver and Toronto remain the top destinations among group travelers, the authority's latest survey says.

"Chinese tourists are most interested in experiencing natural scenic spots, wildlife and fresh air," it says.