Enter into a paradise of diversity as you visit Canada, the second-largest country in the world. Behold varying landscapes, including striking peaks, pristine blue lakes, jagged coastlines, and lively cities. Sign up for a unique experience promised by the country’s fickle seasons, locals with diverse linguistic backgrounds, and cuisines influenced by its multicultural heritage.
However, there are some things you need to know before visiting Canada to help you get the most out of your Canada Holiday.
Photo credit: Fransiskus Filbert Mangundap
Canada is Large
Canada, a country occupying 9.98 million square kilometres (3.85 million square miles), is a destination that offers endless memorable experiences. Canada spans six time zones, ten provinces, and three territories and is the second-largest country after Russia. It includes various landscapes, mountains, and the world’s largest coastline.
The bottom line is that Canada is huge. So, exploring everywhere in Canada will take a few months. However, if you have limited time, you can explore one or two provinces before wrapping it up.
To have a great time exploring Canada, renting a car is best because moving from one city to another translates to travelling long distances. Renting a car may also be necessary if you get accommodation in the suburbs because commuting can be arduous—you can easily drive to cities with sights you want to visit.
Canada has the Most Lakes in the World
Canada, also known as the Land of Lakes, houses over 60% of the world’s lakes, with 879,800 out of about 1.4 million freshwater resources. The best part is that many of these lakes are accessible to the masses so that you can enjoy an abundance of outdoor activities.
If you visit the Alberta province, you can see the breathtaking Lake Louise and savour the gorgeous scenery of radiant turquoise waters and the Canadian Rockies. You can also check out the sixth-largest freshwater lake in Canada if you visit Manitoba and have a relaxing time at the beach. Explore some of these lakes with a Walking Holiday in Canada or why not explore in a unique way with a Canadian Rail Journey.
Canada has two Official Languages
Most Canadians speak English, French, or even both. However, it doesn’t end there. With the country’s multicultural nature, you’ll encounter different language proficiencies and various other languages.
The English and French languages are recognized federally, with institutions and services of the government available in both languages.
For more than half of Canada’s population, English is their mother tongue, while about 20% are French native speakers. Only a tiny percentage of Canadians speak neither English nor French. So, depending on the areas you explore, you may encounter people with diverse linguistic backgrounds.
Varying, Unpredictable Weather
Canada has diverse climates resulting from its size and geographical qualities. So, be prepared to experience varying weather conditions in different and even within regions. To be safe, come with layers.
If you’re planning a trip to Canada, consider the places you want to visit and the time of the year. Read more: Best Time To Visit Canada - Climate Guide. For instance, when visiting cities like Vancouver in Western Canada, you can expect a coastal climate with mild winters and delightful summers. However, when visiting cities like Quebec in Eastern Canada, prepare for cold winters announced by snow and humid summers.
You Need the Right Travel Documents
You must ensure your travel documents are in order before visiting Canada. Depending on your country, you may need a visitor visa, ETA, or free access to Canada.
US citizens or Green Card holders do not require a visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to visit Canada. However, you’ll need either of the two if you don’t fall into any of those categories.
Getting an ETA is a simple online process that only takes a few minutes, and it is necessary for visa-free nationals with the exemption of Americans.
You can find out which of these documents you need on the official website of the Government of Canada.
Have Your Travel Insurance
A single unforeseen event can disrupt your amazing Canada adventure, and one way to guard yourself against that is to have travel insurance.
Depending on insurance policies and conditions, travel insurance can protect you from various inconveniences. It can cover medical expenses, shortened trips, stolen goods, travel delays, and assistance.
Canada indeed has an impressive healthcare standard, but medical services for visitors are pretty expensive. So, to avoid expenses that may ruin the rest of your trip, it’s better to go prepared.
Tipping is Encouraged
Tipping is customary in Canada as it shows that you enjoyed a service. So, when you receive good service, you are encouraged to tip the provider.
You can tip at restaurants, hotels, taxis and rideshares, bars, and even coffee shops. The standard restaurant practice is to tip about 15-20% of the bill before taxes and about $1-$2 at bars.
Canada has all the ingredients to make an unforgettable experience and help you have the trip of a lifetime. So, ensure that nothing gets in the way by making all necessary preparations like packing layers and getting travel insurance.
