Regina is the capital of Saskatchewan Province and is unique due to its lack of topographical features, save tiny Wascana Creek. The city lies on a flat, treeless plain and was once the preferred hunting grounds of the Plains Indians. The growing city was named after Queen Victoria in 1882, though today many claim it received the nickname "Queen City" because guests feel they get the royal treatment every time they visit. Since this royal inception, Regina has grown to a population of nearly 200,000 residents and become a center for agriculture, oil and natural gas production, steel manufacturing and provincial government . Regina is a popular tourist destination because of its prairie hospitality and wealth of interesting attractions from theatre to agricultural exhibitions to specialty restaurants, which draw tourists from all over the world.

With a semi-arid, continental climate and a location in southern Saskatchewan, Regina is the sunniest Canadian capital. The city is known for its warm summer days, when highs can reach 23°C/73°F and evenings are cool and pleasant. With over 2,300 hours of sunshine per year, it's easy to see why both tourists and residents love summers in Regina. Nevertheless, winters in the city can be long, lasting up to 4 ½ months, and its flat, plain-like landscape receives an average annual snowfall of 116cm/46 inches.

Most offices maintain Monday-Friday hours, usually 9am-5pm. Retail businesses generally open from about 10am-9pm Monday-Saturday, and Noon-5pm on Sunday.

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Regina is serviced by the Regina International Airport, located a few kilometers west of the city center. As the oldest commercial airport in Canada, the YQR Airport continues to receive renovations to help accommodate its ever-growing number of travelers. As a hub of eight major airlines, this airport makes travel into and out of the city a breeze. Many major highways travel through the city, as well. Highway 1, known as the Trans-Canada Highway, runs through Regina and covers all of Canada. Other useful roadways are Highways 6, 11 and 33, along with an extension of the Trans-Canada Highway called Ring Road, which serves as a high-speed connection between the city's east and northwest regions.

There are many efficient methods of transportation within Regina, so traveling from place to place during your stay will be trouble-free. If you decide to drive yourself, ask about current road closures and construction, as the city has been working tirelessly on infrastructure improvements that may inhibit traffic. The city also offers many public transportation options, including bus services that run throughout the city and provide a safe and affordable way to get around town. Call 306-777-7433 for bus information. Regina is also easily navigated on foot, with countless nature parks and miles of pathways for you to meander.

Many news outlets can be found in the city, like The Regina Sun, a free daily newspaper that focuses on the community of Regina. The Carillon is a colorful, student newspaper published by the University of Regina and the city's main, daily newspaper is the Regina Leader-Post, which highlights both international events and local news. Pick up a copy of one of these publications and catch up on community news and events before starting your day in Regina. Visitors can also enjoy Regina's free wireless Internet network, which is the largest civic Internet program in Canada, spanning four of the city's busiest regions.

Besides its "Queen City" nickname, Regina is best known for being the home of the RCMP, or the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. This signature police force is comprised of over 25,000 trained personnel, making it the largest police force in Canada. Recruits come from across the country to be trained in Regina, and the RCMP Museum is one of the most popular attractions in the city. Clad with signature red uniforms, brown hats and black boots, this amazing workforce is quintessentially Canadian.

The best way to become familiar with Regina is to take a guided tour. Options include tours of the downtown area that focus on Regina's arts and culture, City Hall Tours and Heritage Walking Tours, which highlight the city's history and architecture. After your tour, embark on your own adventure through the city with confidence, and visit the many parks, museums, art galleries and other attractions that call Regina home. Don't worry; if you lose your bearings, you can ask a resident for directions, as Regina is known for unparalleled hospitality.

Prices displayed in Canada do not generally include sales tax, and it is customary to add a tip for services. Although tipping personal, restaurant servers typically get 15%-20% of the bill and taxi drivers usually receive15% of the tab. One dollar can cover many situations except for concierge, who generally receive $5-$10 for standard service. A goods and services tax of 5% is applied on every transaction in Canada, save basic groceries. In Saskatchewan, consumers can expect to pay an additional 5% sales tax, and a 10% tax on alcohol.

Regina's crime rates are notably low due to its small population, tight community atmosphere and hospitable residents. Nevertheless, visitors should take a common sense approach to carrying valuables. Store whatever you don't need to have with you in your hotel's safe deposit box, and carry what you do need in front pockets, over-the-shoulder bags or concealed pouches. Be aware of your surroundings. Canada has a world-class public health system, and Regina is no exception. The city has two hospitals, plus numerous medical clinics, should you need medical attention.