Here are a few things you should know about Canada in case you are considering taking a vacation there in 2023. We specifically created this list for you:
with a nearly 10 million square kilometer spread out land mass. The country is home to the second-highest mountain peak in North America, Mount Logan in Kluane National Park, Yukon, and the longest coastline in the world, which is bordered by the Pacific, Arctic, and Atlantic oceans.
Canada is a country where you can experience countless things because it has 10 provinces, 3 territories, and 6 time zones.
It is recommended to center your trip to Canada around one province or territory. Each region has an own geography, culture, and population, from the British Columbia’s lush green forests, seaside beaches, and snow-capped ski hills to the Ontario’s lively and culturally diverse cities and Nunavut’s snow- and ice-covered Canadian North.
Fuel is pumped in liters, distance is represented in kilometers, and temperature forecasts are given in degrees Celsius. It’s a widely held belief that Canada uses the same measurement system as its southern neighbors, even though many other nations also do so. For tourists from the United States who use the imperial measurement system, this is a significant issue.
One of the nations with the widest ethnic diversity is Canada.
Although though both French and English are recognized as the national languages of Canada, many areas only have native speakers of one of the two languages. Even some places don’t have speakers of either language. Only in the province of Quebec is French the only official language.
Notwithstanding the predominant language used in each region, the Official Languages Act of 1969 mandated that all signage and packaging be available in both English and French across the nation.
In a nation with such a vast geographic expanse, the climate can vary greatly from one location to another. For instance, British Columbia’s West Coast experiences a moderate climate all year long. Winters are not always snowy, and summer temperatures are around 22°C (or 71°F).
The weather gets colder the further north you go. In contrast, the average annual temperature of Nunavut is 20°C (or 3°F). A large portion of Canada’s top half only experiences two seasons: brief summers and long, chilly winters with significant snowfalls and frigid temperatures.
Check the average weather conditions before you travel and pack for a variety of conditions anywhere in Canada you intend to go, especially on the West Coast where it tends to rain often.
In Canada, we have our own words for everyday items. These are some common examples:
- Toque: a knitted hat usually worn in winter
- Two-four: a 24-pack of beer
- Pablum: a common Canadian name for baby cereal
- Freezies: ice pops
- Washroom: bathroom or restroom
- Clicks: used to refer to kilometers when driving
- Canadian tuxedo: denim top and bottom
- Tobogganing: sledding in the snow
6. Indigenous cultures are of great importance
Canada’s original occupants were Indigenous Peoples of the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. The rich and diverse Indigenous traditions that not only form an important part of our past but are still widely practiced today are acknowledged and valued by Canadians.
Do your study before you travel to Canada to make sure you don’t use any language that can be insulting while referring to the country’s indigenous inhabitants.
- Prepare for over-politeness
The polite Canadian cliche is true in every way. In Canada, we apologize frequently—and not only when something goes wrong. Likewise, don’t be shocked if a stranger offers to hold the door open for you or says “hi!” to you.
In formal interactions, “please” and “thank you” are frequently used. Canadians are very courteous on the road, waving when someone allows you in when changing lanes. Although most Canadians are affable and kind, there are always exceptions.
- Always leave a tip
The amiable Canadian cliche is totally true. In Canada, we apologize frequently and not only when we have done something wrong. A cheerful “hi!” or someone holding the door open for you are also not to be taken aback if they are strangers.
In business settings, it’s customary to say “please” and “thank you,” and Canadians are also polite drivers who will wave to you as you change lanes. There are certainly exceptions, but on the whole, Canadians are personable and kind.
- Be sure to sample Canadian cuisine
from beaver tails (hand-stretched fried dough pastries dusted with powdered sugar) to poutine (fries topped with gravy and cheese curds). You must try some of the delectable foods that Canada has to offer; don’t worry, real beavers are not an ingredient.
Other Canadian sweets include butter tarts and bannock, a traditional Indigenous bread (a small pastry tart with a sweet filling).
The scrumptious lobster rolls of Nova Scotia, the delectable Montreal bagels, or the decadent Nanaimo bars of Vancouver Island in British Columbia are just a few examples of regional specialties.
- The legal drinking age varies across the country
The age at which alcohol can be purchased, possessed, and consumed is 19, compared to 18 in Alberta, Manitoba, and Quebec.
The government controls the sale of alcoholic beverages at retail establishments and their distribution in various jurisdictions, including British Columbia and Ontario.
- Respect wildlife
Canada is home to a diverse spectrum of flora and animals, from robust black bears and salmon spawning in British Columbia to amusing foxes and cheery piping plovers in Prince Edward Island.
There are rules that forbid people from observing wildlife up close and prohibit feeding wildlife. When exploring the outdoors, stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, and if you see any wildlife, keep your distance.
- Canada is one of the safest destinations in the world
In general, Canada is relatively secure. Crime rates are low, and there are tight gun control laws. In general, people trust the police, and they react to calls fast. Despite the nation’s image, it’s best to exercise caution, especially at night when traversing specific neighborhoods.