The great joy in owning an RV lies in the simple fact it allows you to explore our great country as often as you wish and for far less money than you can by any other means. There's never been a better time to own one, as the year 2005 marks several significant anniversaries across Canada.

For starters, you might want to point your RV to Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia, which was established 400 years ago this June by Samuel de Champlain. Then known as Port Royal, this second-oldest settlement in North America was established under the order of King Henry IV of France. You can visit the actual site, which is preserved by Parks Canada as the Port Royal National Historic Site.

Or turn your wheels to Ottawa, which celebrates its 150th anniversary this year. It was in 1855 that the village of Bytown - named for Lieutenant-Colonel John By, who spearheaded construction of the Rideau Canal between 1826 and 1832 - was incorporated as a city. Five years later, the cornerstone of our parliament buildings was laid, and Ottawa went on to become Canada's capital in 1867.

Just a couple of hours down the highway, stop by Toronto and help celebrate the 30th anniversary of the completion of the CN Tower. The tallest free-standing structure in the world, the CN Tower has become Toronto's unofficial icon, recognized around the world. One can only imagine how tall the candles will be on the official birthday cake when the party kicks off on April 2nd.

If your travel plans have you heading to Saskatchewan, you'll be there just in time to observe the 120th anniversary of the Northwest Rebellion. It was in 1885 that Louis Riel established a provisional government for the Metis at Batoche, an action that Ottawa viewed as a revolt. Clashes with government troops culminated in a final confrontation at Batoche, where the Metis were defeated. Following a sensational trial, Riel was convicted of treason and hanged in Regina on November 16.

The year 2005 will also mark Saskatchewan's centennial. The land of Living Skies officially joined Canada on September 4, 1905 - three days after Alberta. Both provinces are planning enormous summer celebrations to mark their respective hundredth birthdays, so you won't want to miss out on the fun. Make sure you book your campsites well in advance.

By November 7th you'll want to be in Eagle Pass, British Columbia, where the last spike of the transcontinental railway was hammered into place 120 years ago on November 7, 1885. Once again, a gala celebration will mark this definitive date in Canadian history.

So many reasons to travel, so many wonderful places to visit.

With the new year upon us, make your travel plans now and explore our country. Canada truly is a magnificent place, and there's no better way to discover it than in your RV. (Top)