10 Fascinating facts about North America

North America is a well known continent, notably for hosting the world influencing superpower that is the USA as well as Canada, but there are several interesting historical and cultural facts about the landmass, some which may just surprise you.

North America is actually the third-largest continent in the world (after Asia and Africa) and is home to an incredible range of landscapes. From the frozen tundra of Canada to the scorching deserts of the southwestern United States, as well as grassland and forest.

Despite being the third largest continent in the world, North America ranks fourth in world population with 549 million people as far as continent populations go. With Europe being considerably smaller but having a higher population (740 million) than it.

Canada, often known for its politeness, is also famous for its production of maple syrup. In fact, it's the world's largest producer, responsible for around 71% of the planet's maple syrup supply.

The Great Lakes, a group of interconnected freshwater lakes, hold about 84% of North America's surface freshwater. The great lakes can be notoriously rough waters despite being very large lakes, and allegedly they contain more shipwrecks than the Bermuda Triangle.

Quebec City, in Canada, is the only walled city in North America north of Mexico. The city's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a slice of Europe in the New World.

The awe-inspiring Grand Canyon is one of the natural wonders of the world and is estimated to be around 5-6 million years old. With different layers of the canyons rock walls dating even further back to hundreds of millions of years in age. Though despite its fairly remote location, it continues to be a magnet for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

The USA can boldly claim to host to some of the largest immigrant populations in the world and more than 40 million immigrants have entered the United States through Ellis Island. This iconic immigration station in New York Harbor along with the state of liberty symbolises the pursuit of the American Dream.

The Ambassador Bridge, connecting Detroit, Michigan, and Windsor, Ontario, is the busiest international border crossing in North America. It facilitates trade between the U.S. and Canada.

The United States is known for its vast and well preserved national parks, boasting over 400 of them, including iconic destinations like Yosemite, Yellowstone, and the Everglades. Each offers a unique opportunity to explore the country's natural beauty.

Niagara Falls is not just breathtaking during the day - after sunset, it transforms into a dazzling light show, with LED lights casting vibrant colors over the cascading waters. A true natural wonder by day and a mesmerizing spectacle by night.

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