The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Who is Canada's idol and what makes Canada priceless? What's on the minds of Canadians, and what do Canadians value most? According to a national survey of Canadians by Environics Research Group for MasterCard Canada, priceless Canadian values range from maple syrup and family and friends to the Rocky Mountains. The results of the 2004 MasterCard Canada Priceless Index reveal that Canadians are patriotic and proud of their country. More than half of Canadians (55%) consider themselves first and foremost a citizen of Canada, rather than a citizen of the world (15%), or of their province (13%) or local community (13%.) And when asked about Canadian values, one quarter (24%) of Canadians said freedom is their most priceless Canadian value. Not surprisingly, hockey is also a priceless Canadian value. When asked what Canada's best television show of all time is, 7 per cent said hockey - the number one answer in the country. The most priceless Canadian sport's team: Canadians were almost tied between the Toronto Maple Leafs (29%) and the Montreal Canadiens (27%.) And finally, the Priceless Index also revealed the 2002 Men's and Women's Gold Hockey medals ranked as Canada's most priceless Olympic moment. If planning a summer road trip, make sure you pack the cooler right - with distinct Canadian foods, that is. According to the poll, Canadians value their local produce. While maple syrup ranked in first place nationally (15%) as Canada's most distinct food, Western Canada supports the beef industry (16%) and 21 per cent of Atlantic Canadians put lobster or fish ahead of all others. Provincial pride also comes into play when nominating their favourite vacation destinations. According to the survey, when asked what Canada's most priceless vacation destination is, Canadians placed the Rocky Mountains first with 11 per cent support, followed by Banff (8%.) But, respondents were most likely to name their own local region: Atlantic Canadians say venture out East first, with visits to Prince Edward Island (14%) or Cape Breton (12%) as essential vacation spots. Quebecers admit the Rockies warrant a visit (12%), they'd quickly recommend the cross-Canada tour stop in Quebec City or Gaspe - both scoring 11 per cent. But whether vacationing or staying put this summer, Canadians value their family and friends. The survey reveals almost one-third (32%) cite spending time with family and friends as the most priceless leisure time activity. So what does the 2004 MasterCard Canada Priceless Index truly reveal? Canadians say their Canada includes: hockey, freedom, family and friends, and their local produce. Wouldn't you agree Canada is priceless, eh?
