Traveling in the Balkans is relatively easy.  There's a strong network of hostels throughout the region, plenty of backpackers, a decent network of buses and everyone is willing to tell you what they think you should do, can't miss or what you should have done.  It's a pretty incredible system all things considered.

So when it comes to traveling all you have to do is get linked into a good hostel, smile and talk about your trip with other travelers and basically the rest will work itself out. Okay this might be oversimplifying things a little bit but I swear not by much. Sure you also have to be prepared for smelly shared dorm rooms, early morning packers/late night drunks, poor shower pressure and instant coffee but really it's worth it.

It might not be for everyone but if you can take the good with the bad then traveling through the Balkans via buses and hostels you're bound to have a great time. Yes, even at nearly-thirty I am singing the praises of hostels in Eastern Europe.

Anyhow, on this most recent trip, my friend R. and I were stuck by the fact that given the route we were taking we were either following or being followed by fellow backpackers.  It's pretty great.  It gives you a built in network of friends. We ran into Brits, Aussies and Canadians but only one other American.

And you know what? Canadians are great fun. <!--more-->Truthfully, I haven't spent much time thinking about Canada. Don't get me wrong, I don't dislike Canadians.  Mostly, because I don't know much about about the country or the people. Sure I know the highlights, I know a number of different cities, and I know that it's cold and that everyone eats maple syrup.  Then one of my new Canadian backpacker-friends C. began to teach me more about Canada.

Specifically she referenced a series of public service announcements that run on Canadian public television called "A Part of our Heritage."  And you know what? They are pretty great. Thanks Canada!!

Here, check this one out about Superman:

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9GYWbhBoHM]

Okay, I am not sure that I know much more of substance about Canadian history but at a minute a pop, they make for a pretty good laugh and a great distraction.  You might also want to check out the one on "Irish Names," "Basketball," "Women in Medicine," and "Maple Syrup."

But it turns out that Canada is awesome. (I mean, if you didn't already know that.)