No sales tax. That phrase alone usually sends visitors scurrying to gift shops and shopping malls. While it's true that Calgary, an urban epicenter with more than 1 million people, has taken a pass on sales tax, it also offers some inspirational and intriguing attractions.

Located in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, Calgary has a past firmly planted in the frontier spirit. True-to-life cowboys were once the backbone of industry, and their indelible mark can be seen in such places as the Heritage Park Historical Village. But Calgary has also been keeping up with its urban expansion and is now known as a city laden with shopping and world-famous attractions, including the soaring Calgary Tower and Art Central, a crossroads of artistic interest. Experience the city and all it has to offer on a sightseeing tour - or explore the surrounding country on a Columbia Icefield tour or mountain lakes and waterfalls day trip.

A few hours outside of Calgary is Banff National Park. Set in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, it attracts close to 4 million visitors each year. With the town of Banff as a jumping off point, explore this stunning natural area on a Athabasca Glacier trip, a Lake Louise and Moraine Lake tour, or a wildlife safari. Thrill-seekers will love high-octane activities like whitewater rafting or visiting with grizzly bears, but if your preference is for calmer activities, relax with a game of golf or sightsee in Banff City. Whatever your reason for visiting, a stay in the Calgary/Banff region is sure to be completely engaging and entertaining.