Whether you are going on vacation, moving abroad, or traveling for work, it is always comforting to know the basics before you arrive. Feeling comfortable with what people eat, how they interact in public, and even how they get around, are some of the first steps to feeling at ease in another culture. If you know what to expect you can spend less time fretting and more time soaking in the all of the new experiences travel brings. 

Canada is located in North America and has a population of about 36 million people. The first inhabitants of Canada were distinctive groups of Aboriginal people, including the Huron-Wendat of the Great Lakes region, the Cree and Dene of the Northwest, the nomadic Sioux and the Arctic-based Inuit (Eskimo). “Canada” means “village” in the Iroquoian language.

The capital of Canada is Ottawa. Other major cities in Canada include Saskatoon, Montreal, Vancouver, Victoria, Edmonton, Calgary, and Toronto. There are ten provinces and three territories.

Social Climate

People in Canada form and obey lines. Personal space is expected; Canadians leave one to two feet of space when conversing or standing. Punctuality is valued, although it is acceptable to arrive up to 15 minutes after the appointed time.

Many Canadians identify as more than one ethnicity and the country is welcoming of diverse backgrounds. Today in Canada, couples typically share equal responsibility in finances, childcare, and household work. Being aware of Canadian culture will help you or your team accomplish business goals quickly, as misunderstandings are minimized. 

Language

Canada has two official languages: English and French. While English is most commonly spoken nationally, French is common in Quebec. 

Conversation is diplomatic and calm in Canada. Listen carefully for words chosen to avoid confrontation. Politeness is very important.

Doing Business

Business relationships in Canada are formal. Outside of the office, co-workers may be more casual. The work day is usually about 8 hours, beginning around 8:30 a.m. and ending around 5:00 p.m.

When doing business with Canadians, honesty is imperative. If there is a delay in the project or a request is not possible, explain why and offer solutions to the problem.

Food

Food in Canada varies from region to region. The country covers a diverse geographic area and celebrates a diverse population. Be sure to try:

• Poutine (fried potatoes with gravy, cheese curds, and other toppings) in Quebec
• Seafood in Vancouver
• Smoked meat and fish
• Butter tart
• Maple syrup

Schooling

Kindergarten is for children from ages 5-6.

Elementary school is for students ages 6-14 and includes grades 1-8.

High school is for children ages 14-18. There are four grades in high school, 9-12.

After high school, students may attend a technical “college” or an academic “university.” Education is the responsibility of each province in Canada, so some elements may differ across the country.

Transportation

People travel around Canada by airplane, rail, car, and bus. The Canadian Rail travels the length of the country from Nova Scotia to British Columbia. In the Atlantic areas, ferries are common forms of transportation for passengers and vehicles. In sparsely populated areas, private cars are essential. In large cities, public transportation includes subways and buses. Tickets are purchased at a kiosk, station, or store. The fare is fixed and non-negotiable.

Attractions: Museums and Nature

Some of the top attractions in Canada are:

• CN Tower
• Butchart Gardens
• Vancouver Aquarium
• Royal Ontario Museum
• Canada’s Wonderland
• Casa Loma
• Toronto Zoo
• Lawrence Market South

Some of the most beautiful natural parks and spaces in Canada include:

• Banff National Park
• Jasper National Park
• Stanley Park
• Capilano Suspension Bridge
• Niagara Falls/Horseshoe Falls

Security

Make multiple copies of your documentation and keep these materials in a safe place. These documents should include the location of your nearest home country embassy in case of emergency. When you travel, always be sure to provide at least one other person with your itinerary. As in every country, there are places that are dangerous to go to if you are unfamiliar with the area. Ask the locals where they do not go, and try to avoid travelling alone and at night when possible.

Heed warnings posted about wildlife or dangerous natural features in Canada. Never attempt to feed a wild animal and do not drive your car off the maintained roads.

Facts about Canada

• Canada is the second largest country in the world (Russia is the largest)
• The most popular sport in Canada is ice hockey
• Canadians consume more macaroni and cheese than any other nation in the world
• Canada has the longest coastline in the world
• The King or Queen of England is also the King or Queen of Canada, although Canadians elect their own prime minister

If you are moving to Canada or conducting business, Dwellworks is happy to help. View our services here to get started!