A Traveler's guide to
canada
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WHEN TO VISIT • VISA’S • CURRENCY • VOLTAGE • LANGUAGE • FESTIVALS • TOP THINGS TO DO • BEST PLACES TO VISIT • HEALTH CARE • LAWS • SCAMS • SAFETY • ACCOMMODATION • TRANSPORTATION • WHAT TO PACK • GROUP TOURS • WHAT TO EAT • SUGGESTED READING • MONEY SAVING TIPS • FUN FACTS • FINAL THOUGHTS
Emerald Lake, BC
For those of you that don’t already know, I’m from Canada. The simplest way to describe Canada would be beautiful and huge, in fact it’s the second largest country in the world. I have lived in and visited many provinces, but to explore it all it would take many lifetimes, I’m sure. Canada is comprised of 10 provinces and 3 territories and is probably best known for it’s friendliness, rugged scenery, hockey, maple syrup, moose, legal weed and don’t forget the snow! There is so much to discover in Canada.
OTTAWA
Capital City
When to visit Canada?
First, you will need to decide if you want to visit Canada in the winter or in the summer? For the summer activities, the best months to visit would be in the peak season and the for winter activities during the off peak season. However, for slightly cheaper prices and for less crowds you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder seasons.
The second thing you will need to keep in mind is where you want to visit? As mentioned before Canada is huge and it crosses six times zones. On the west coast, temperatures stay mild all year long but once you cross the Rocky Mountains and start heading east, the weather seasons become more extreme (with hot summers and cold winters).
PEAK SEASON:
June – September
SHOULDER SEASON:
May / October
OFF SEASON:
November – April
VISA'S FOR CANADA
For US neighbors, only a valid passport is required for entry into Canada. All other foreign travelers will require either an ETA (electronic travel authorization) or a tourist visa, which will allow a visit for up to a period of 6 months.
It is also important to note that if you are from a visa exempt country you may still need an ETA, even if you are just transiting through Canada. If you do not have the proper documents you may be delayed or prevented from boarding your flight, so it is always best to check the most up to date info.
A great resource to know if you require a visa is passportindex.org and if you are exempt, then you will know that you most likely need an ETA. You can obtain your ETA from the Government of Canada Website for a cost of $7 (which you will receive within a few days).
Many countries require travelers to have passports with at least 6 months of remaining validity as an entry requirement. Some require the passport be valid for six months from the date of entry while others require six months validity from the date of departure. Because this can change (for example some countries will accept 3 months) it’s always best to check the current passport validity requirements, before booking your trip to Canada.
CURRENCY IN CANADA
The currency in Canada is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). The dollar bills are colorful and most of the coins come with an animal on them, you know ‘Canadian ones’; such as a beaver, moose, polar bear and loon. In fact, the $1 coin is called a ‘Loonie’ and the $2 coin is called a ‘Twoonie”.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Canada and ATM’s are plentiful, so it’s not necessary to bring lots of cash with you (although you’ll always want to have some for small purchases, tips and in case a card machine is out of service).
Money withdrawing tip
When exchanging your money into Canadian dollars for the best exchange rates, I would always suggest using a bank ATM. It is also a good idea before leaving for Canada to check with your home bank to find out if they have a partner bank in Canada (which charge low fees or no fees at all) or to discuss the best card they offer for traveling.
Places to avoid for the worst exchange rates will be inside a bank at the teller, private ATM’s (such as in a bar, hotel or casino), airports, train stations and touristy areas.
*NOTE: If an ATM or a POS (payment terminal) ever offers to convert the charges to your home currency, always refuse this option. This is called ‘Dynamic Currency Conversion’ and the exchange rate will not be in your favor, so just choose ‘no’.
How to keep your valuables safe?
One of the most important aspects of travel is keeping your personal belongings safe. Not many things can ruin your trip like theft can. I personally do this by carrying all valuables in my ‘anti-theft’ carryon backpack while my boyfriend has a secret cash stash in his money belt.
VOLTAGE IN CANADA
In Canada, the standard voltage is 120V with a frequency of 60Hz and there are two types of plug sockets used across the country. Type A has 2 flat parallel pins and Type B has the same 2 flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. Unless you are from the US, Central America or Japan you will likely require an adapter for Canada.
Travel Adapter & Power Bank
Ensuring that you have the right plug when traveling is super important, especially with the voltage compatibility. I travel to a lot of different countries and never leave home without my universal power adapter. There are lots on the market but this one covers every region of the world, comes with USB ports, is super cheap and light weight. That’s everything you will ever need in an adapter and you’ll have the peace of mind that you won’t fry your devices.
Another thing I never travel without is a portable power bank. I’ve had a few so far but the best performing one, without a doubt, is the Anker PowerCore. It’s small, lightweight, comes with 3 USB ports and one battery life is capable of fully charging your phone multiple times before it needs another charge.
LANGUAGE IN CANADA
There are 2 official languages in Canada – English and French. The most widely spoken is English, with French mainly spoken in the province of Quebec.
I believe that learning a language (or at least trying to) is a big part of traveling well and I always recommend learning some basic words and phrases in any country that you plan to visit. I find that the locals always appreciate your effort and it can be a truly rewarding experience.
If you are reading this travel guide then you already speak English, so to help you get started with a little French, I have compiled a few basic French words for you;
• HELLO: Bonjour
• YES: Qui
• NO: Non
• THANK YOU: Merci
• SORRY: Désolé
• GOODBYE: Au revoir
• DELICIOUS: Délicieux
• WASHROOM?: Toilettes?
• ONE – TEN: 1. Un 2. Deux 3. Trois 4. Quatre 5. Cinq 6. Six 7. Sept 8. Huit 9. Neuf 10. Dix
Interested in learning French?
Or any other language for that matter… If you really do want to challenge yourself further and learn more than just the basics, I strongly recommend checking out the language learning program uTalk. It’s super fun, interactive and available in 140 languages. I am using it myself currently to learn Croatian.
Alternative ways to communicate
Not being able to communicate while traveling can be frustrating but remember that this is your problem, not theirs. Raising your voice doesn’t magically make people understand English.
Even if your language skills aren’t up to par there are still a few other ways to communicate. You can try with miming, images on your phone or by pointing at symbols on my universal symbol travel tee.
It has 90 useful icons that come in either black or white print, with multiple shirt colors for you to choose from.
There is also Google Translate which is ok for a quick translation if you’re going to type. But to translate speech and to have any meaningful conversation, it’s useless. That’s where an electronic translator comes in.
Thanks to artificial intelligence ,what once seemed like science fiction now has became a reality. The CheetahTALK is not only sleek and easy to carry around, at the press of just one button it provides extremely accurate and instant 2-way conversations.
FESTIVALS IN CANADA
Calgary Stampede, Alberta
Canada is vast and diverse and the festivals and celebrations held there certainly reflect this, attracting visitors from all over the world. Here is a list of noteworthy ones, that you don’t want to miss;
POLAR BEAR PLUNGE (January)
Every January 1st, thousands of Canadians ring in the new year by putting on their bathing suits and taking an invigorating dip in The Pacific, The Atlantic, a lake or river – in an activity called the Polar Bear Plunge. The four biggest events are; English Bay in Vancouver (BC), Mahogany Home Owner’s Beach Club in Calgary (AB), Sunnyside Park Beach in Toronto (ON) and Herring Cove in Halifax (NS). If you are brave enough? why not put on your toque and dive in with them, it definitely won’t be something you’ll ever forget!
WINTERLUDE (February)
Winterlude is one of the biggest winter events in Canada, which transforms the capital of Ottawa into a magical winter wonderland, for 3 weeks every February. Known for activities such as; tube sliding, snow playgrounds, ice dragon boat competitions and admiring ice sculptures, along with a cultural and culinary program. One of the highlights of the festival is the 7.8km Rideau Canal Skateway, which is the largest natural frozen skating rink in the world.
PRIDE (June)
Canada has long supported the LGBT community and became the fourth country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage nationwide. It should come as no surprise then, that some of the world’s biggest and most celebrated LGBT events take place each year in the country. Toronto Gay Pride is the biggest and one of the most celebrated Pride event attracting an estimated 1.2 million spectators each year, it started in 1981 and has evolved into an incredibly lively celebration.
CANADA DAY (July)
You will not feel more like you are in Canada than on July 1st, Canada’s birthday! It is celebrated nationwide with parades, flag flying, fireworks and the singing of the national athem, ‘Oh Canada’. On July 1st, 1867 the British North American Act united the British colonies of North America into one federation called Canada. Then in 1982, upon its independence from Britain, the day was renamed from ‘Dominion Day’ to ‘Canada Day’ and has been patriotically celebrated ever since.
CALGARY STAMPEEDE (July)
The ten day event that dubs itself as ‘The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth’. It is an annual rodeo, festival and exhibition that attracts over one million visitors per year. Featuring a parade, midway, rodeo events, concerts, agricultural contests, chuckwagon racing, first nations exhibits, pancake breakfasts, bbq’s galore, beer gardens and nightly fireworks. Dress in your best western wear and channel your inner cowboy (or cowgirl) in ‘Stampede City’.
CELEBRATION OF LIGHT (July)
You have not really seen fireworks until you’ve experienced Vancouver’s ‘Honda Celebration of Light’. For almost three decades this signature Vancouver summer event, has lit up the sky for three nights at the end of July. Three countries compete each year to ‘wow’ large crowds, choreographing to music their spectacular displays to music as they are launched off a floating barge. Spectators flock to the waterfront, setting out picnic blankets and folding chairs on the beach to take in the show. Make sure to bring along your own picnic and make a night of it or book a spot in advance in one of the official VIP viewing areas.
CLAYOQUOT OYSTER FEST (November)
Tofino (BC) is one of my favorite places to visit on earth – bold statement, I know! In summer it is Canada’s only surf destination but in the winter not only is it a storm watching haven, it is peak oyster eating and slurping season. The Clayoquot Oyster Festival began as an event to call attention to a sustainable aquaculture industry has now grown and include; a costume party, restaurant events, oyster farm tours and a gala featuring a chef competition. If you are a bivalve lover, this is a must attend celebration!
TOP THINGS TO DO IN CANADA
Polar Bear in Churchill, Manitoba
GET UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH POLAR BEARS:
Churchill, Manitoba is known as the polar bear capital of the world and around 10,000 people descend annually during, the 5-6 week bear season (between Oct – Nov). The bulk of bear viewing takes place on the tundra outside of town, from the safety of bespoke vehicles (approximately the size of school buses). The wheels are the size of airport fire truck wheels, of which the immense size enables the trucks to traverse treacherous terrain and keep occupants beyond the reach of even the largest and most curious bear.
ATTEND A HOCKEY MATCH:
Have you ever attended a hockey game? If not I highly recommend it when visiting Canada. Even if you know nothing about the sport or aren’t even a sports fan, ice hockey is the beating heart of this country. It’s an official winter national sport and really something that has to be experienced. There are 7 Canadian NHL teams – Vancouver (Canucks), Calgary (Flames), Edmonton (Oilers), Winnipeg (Jets), Montreal (Canadians), Ottawa (Senators) and The Toronto (Maple Leafs). Hockey season in Canada, runs from Oct – April.
GO WHALE WATCHING:
Canada is a country of three coastlines; The Arctic, The Atlantic and The Pacific. This means there are ample opportunities to observe and experience the diverse marine life. Whale watching tours are a popular activity for locals and tourists alike. From west to east, here are the best spots to go whale watching in Canada;
Vancouver, B.C (April 1 – Oct 1 /Gray & Killer Whales).
Churchill, Manitoba (Second half of July – First half of August / Beluga Whales).
Tadoussac, Quebec (May – Oct / Blue, Humpback, Minke & Beluga Whales).
Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia (July – August / Humpback, Fin, Pilot Whales).
St. Johns, Newfoundland (July – August / Humpback, Fin & Blue Whales).
ATTEND A RODEO:
During the summer months there are many rodeos throughout Canada but probably the best known is The Calgary Stampede (an annual rodeo, exhibition and festival held every July in Calgary, Alberta). The ten-day event calls itself “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”, attracts over one million visitors per year and features one of the world’s largest rodeos, a parade, stage shows, concerts, agricultural competitions, chuckwagon racing, and First Nations exhibitions. There is no better way to channel your inner cowboy, or cowgirl!
DISCOVER DINOSAURS:
Located in the heart of the Canadian badlands is Drumheller, Alberta (known as the dinosaur capital of the world) where 75 million years ago dinosaurs roamed around this region. There are many things to explore in the area including visiting The Royal Tyrrell Museum, which houses hundreds of fossils from its vast collection and displays impressive dinosaur skeletons. You’ll also want to make sure to check out the numerous walking trails and hikes, hoodoos (sandstone pillars) and even climb inside the worlds largest ‘fake’ dinosaur to a fun viewing platform on your visit to Drumheller.
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN CANADA
Niagara Falls, Ontario
There are so many amazing locations to visit within Canada. From coast to coast, the country is home to vibrant and culturally rich cities, along with incredible natural wonders which makes it hard to narrow this selection. Still, here is an overview of Canada’s most popular areas (from west to east).
BRITISH COLUMBIA
Majestic mountains, the pacific ocean, rainforest and mild weather throughout all four seasons – make Beautiful British Columbia a top tourist destination. From Vancouver (consistently voted as one of the most beautiful cities in the world), Vancouver Island (where the capital of the province ‘Victoria’ is located), Whistler (a world class ski resort town) to the Canadian Rockies and so many other smaller cities and towns begging to be explored!
Here are a few recommended suggestions of recommended activities you can experience in the Province of B.C;
ALBERTA
Alberta is certainly defined by its diversity, from the stunning UNESCO worthy Rocky Mountain Parks to the Great Prairie Plains (where both dinosaurs and buffalo roamed). The landscape just invites nature loving visitors to get outside and explore.
Some of the noteworthy places to visit are the main metropolitan cities of Edmonton and Calgary, the breathtaking mountains and lakes of Lake Louise & Moraine and the towns of Banff and Drumheller in the Canadian Badlands.
Here are a few suggestions of what you can do in the Province of Alberta;
ONTARIO
Probably best known for Canada’s largest city of Toronto and the spectacular Niagara Falls there is so much more to see in Ontario, including it’s 250,000 lakes!. Toronto is found on the shores of Lake Ontario. The calm waters of Lake Huron and Lake Superior offer canoeing, kayaking and hiking adventures. There are also many other lakes dotted throughout the region that are home to wildlife, water sports and cottage country.
Here are a few suggestions of what you can do in the Province of Ontario;
QUEBEC:
Known as “La Belle Province” (the beautiful province) Quebec is Canada’s largest province. It is often referred to as the “Europe of North America”. If you are charmed by towering fortresses, stunning castles, you like wandering cobblestone streets, enjoy vast forests, rolling hills, countless waterways, revel in eating great food and want to feel like you have time traveled to Europe – then Quebec may be just the place for you. French is the official language of the province and about 80% of the population are native francophones.
Here are a few suggestions of what you can do in the Province of Quebec;
THE MARITIMES:
The Maritimes is a region in Eastern Canada consisting of the provinces of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. Even if it wasn’t for the beautiful scenery, abundance of wildlife, music, art, literature, rich history, colorful fishing villages, food and many activities to fill your day, there’s still one great reason to visit the Maritimes – the people! Canadians are known for being polite and friendly but it’s widely agreed that ‘Maritimers’ are the friendliest of them all.
Here are a few suggestions of what you can do in The Maritimes;
HEALTH CARE IN CANADA
With the risk of trying not to sound like your mother, travel insurance is one of the most important investments that a traveler can make. Travel insurance assumes particular importance while travelling abroad simply because of the number of risks associated with it.
Though Canada offers generous public healthcare insurance, you have to be some form of long term legal Canadian resident before the government will pay for your hospital visits or operations, non-residents will be billed full cost for any medical service performed while in Canada.
Life happens and horrible things can occur that are out of our hands and bad things can happen everywhere, even in the safest of places. You could slip on some ice (a big possibility in Canada), get hit by a car, fall down a flight of stairs or have your bag snatched from you!
What Travel Insurance Company to Choose?
These are the best companies that I have thoroughly researched, used myself and highly recommend:
Safety Wing – it’s the cheapest, they cover all types and durations of travel (perfect for digital nomads) and have covid-19 in their policy. You can also purchase or extend, even if you’re already on the road and they cover up to the age of 69.
World Nomads – they cover everything previously mentioned by Safety Wing however become the cheaper option between age 39-69, cover the more adventurous and dangerous activities (such as scuba and sky diving) and they also cover loss of electronics.
Insure My Trip – after age 69 (not that I have obviously used them myself) my research has shown that this is most likely is your best option, in both excellent coverage and price.
LAWS IN CANADA
RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police)
Every country is different and something that is legal in your country may not be legal in Canada. For example, drinking in public is a punishable offence in Canada – a stark difference from countries like France (where you can set up a picnic in the park and pop a cork on a bottle of bordeaux). There are also quite strict rules on smoking cigarettes near door ways, patios, parks and beaches – however before you start thinking Canada is trying to take away all the fun, marijuana is completely legal across the whole country (in fact the government sells it to you!).
Here are some other interesting things to note that are also illegal in Canada:
- It is against Canadian law to possess comics that depict criminal acts.
- Prostitution laws are hazy in Canada; the purchase of sexual services is criminalized, but the selling of sexual services is allowed under certain conditions (if that makes any sense at all?).
- It is illegal to own a pet rat in the Province of Alberta.
- It is forbidden to eat ice cream on Bank Street in Ottawa on a Sunday (apparently any other day is allowed, so make sure to keep it inside on Sundays).
- Oh and speaking of Sundays, it’s also illegal to drag a dead horse down Younge Street in Toronto on a Sunday (so make sure you save that for another day, ok?!!!).
SCAMS IN CANADA
Canada is a very safe country however, like any major tourist destination, there are tourist targeted scams and petty crime to be aware of.
One particular scam that you could encounter would be from supposed ‘charitable organization’ on the street asking for money (which is not typical from legitimate charities) especially when they aggressively try to guilt trip you, so just decline and keep walking.
Another example would be from restaurants, in high traffic tourist locations, by them sneakily adding a tip to the bill and hoping that you will not notice and end up paying double the tip. In Canada, it is customary to tip 15-20% in a restaurant.
Lastly, always keep an eye on your valuables. I suggest that anywhere you go in the world that you carry a copy of your passport (rather than the original) when out exploring, keep your wallet in your front pocket and larger valuables in an anti-theft day pack.
SAFETY IN CANADA
For Fire, Police or Medical Emergencies DIAL 911
Canada is considered one of the safest destinations in the world. Crime rate is low, the police are trusted and people tend to look out for one another but, just like anywhere you travel to, always trust your gut instinct. If a taxi driver seems shady, get out. If your hotel is seedier than you thought, leave. You have every right to remove yourself from the situation.
Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they know where you are. For that extra bit of security, especially for solo female travelers, you may also want to consider a portable door lock or a personal alarm.
ACCOMMODATION IN CANADA
Accommodations in Canada are plentiful and there is certainly no shortage in choice. To help you in your selection, I have compiled my top choices, broken down by area and budget:
*Note: Click on image to enlarge. Use the X on top right corner to exit.
VANCOUVER
HOSTEL: Samesun Vancouver
ECONOMY: YWCA Hotel Vancouver
MID RANGE: Hotel Belmont
LUXURY: Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel
WHISTLER
HOSTEL: Pangea Pod Hotel
ECONOMY: Whistler Village Inn & Suites
MID RANGE: Nita Lake Lodge
LUXURY: Fairmont Chateau Whistler
TORONTO
HOSTEL: The Clarence Park
ECONOMY: Pembroke Inn
MID RANGE: Delta Hotels by Marriott
LUXURY: The Ritz-Carlton Toronto
MONTREAL
HOSTEL: Samesun Montreal
ECONOMY: Hotel St-Denis
MID RANGE: Renaissance Montreal
LUXURY: Le Mount Stephen
AIR BNB
If living like a local in your own space is more your thing, then AirBNB can be an excellent choice in Canada. Of course though, with all of the popularity the platform has gained, prices and fees have certainly increased.
HOWEVER there is absolutely no need to pay full price for an Airbnb! Click here to find out one of my ‘TOP TRAVEL HACKS’ and how you too, never have to pay full price ever again!!!
TRANSPORTATION IN CANADA
VIA Rail
Getting around within any large city in Canada will not be an issue. Widely available are busses, metros, taxis or ride share services, such as LYFT.
Traveling from one part of the country to another though, has a lot left to be desired. To get around between different parts of the country you can travel by the VIA RAIL passenger train – which is expensive, rent a car – which is expensive or fly – which believe it or not (even though it’s still expensive) might be your cheapest option. You can also travel by ferry to visit the islands along the coast but, yes as you might guess…they are not cheap!
Traffic Rules in Canada
In Canada, they drive on the right side of the road (same as in the US). Speed limits and distances are posted in kilometers and an international drivers’ license is not required. One of the more common traffic signs seen in Canada is a ‘Merging’ sign, which indicates (as the name states) 2 lanes that merge into one – where drivers are expected slow down and merge like a zipper (one from the left then one from the right and so on). In Canada you are also allowed to make a right on a red light, unless there is a sign forbidding it – handy to know, otherwise you might receive a ‘polite’ honk!
Rentalcars.com is one of the most comprehensive comparison websites that offers deals and discounts on rental cars, in Canada and across the world.
WHAT TO PACK FOR CANADA
It's always good to bring some wool
Also, merino wool adapts to the climate you are in. It is thin (so perfect as an underlayer in colder temperatures), lightweight, super comfortable and unlike other natural wools – not itchy!
There are several Merino brands out there but my favorite is definitely ‘Ice Breaker’ as their range of clothing is extensive, from socks and underwear to shirts and pants, plus many more items.
Packing hacks
One of my favorite ways to squeeze in more for my travels, is to tightly roll up my clothes. To be super organized, I love to use packing cubes. That way, I can take out the relevant cube rather than rummaging around at the bottom of my baggage.
Another way to further up your packing game is to use a Portable USB Vacuum Pump (with no actual vacuum required!). This is a highly efficient and inexpensive way to reduce the volume of your clothes to only a fraction of their original size, simply by removing the air.
Have you ever had to dump some of your luggage at the airport or shuffle items, from one bag to another, just before boarding your flight? Well, carrying a luggage scale with you will protect you against the excess baggage charges and ensure that you’re never again faced with any nasty surprises at check-in ever again!
Another smart thing to have is a tracker to put inside your luggage or attach to your valuables. There are few different options on the market, but I’m now using the new Apple AirTag.
What not to bring to Canada?
Most fresh fruits, vegetables, animal or fish products, as a rule not allowed into Canada (although there are a few exceptions) and must always be declared.
It’s also illegal to import what the government describes as “obscenity and hate propaganda” which includes any movies, books, comics or magazines that contain (in the opinion of the border guard) overly hateful, perverted, gory, terroristic or violent content.
Also a reminder for US citizens crossing the land borders – firearms, ammunition, mace or pepper spray are not allowed into Canada. I’ve watched too many of those border shows and am shocked how many do not know this, so I felt it deserved a mention 😉
GROUP TOURS AROUND CANADA
Canada is a perfect place for solo travel but if traveling by yourself isn’t your jam, I highly recommend G Adventures. They are a super reputable travel company, who have been around for a long time. The reason why I love G Adventures is because they have loads of different tours that cater to different age groups. They have tours for the young (18-30), wellness tours and even combo tours that take you to a few Provinces, allowing you to explore even further.
WHAT TO EAT IN CANADA
Poutine
So what is Canadian food, anyways?
When people think of Canadian cuisine, sometimes it’s hard to get past the stereotypes of crispy bacon and maple syrup and believe it or not, the two often go hand in hand (hey, don’t knock it until you try it!). Canadian dishes are quirky and sometimes ridiculed but are also undeniably delicious, creative and whole-heartedly embraced.
Tipping 15%-20% is customary in Canada on the total bill before taxes (less for poor service, more for truly exceptional service).
POUTINE:
Few Canadian dishes are as world renowned as the glorious creation know as poutine. Crispy fries, squeaky cheese curds and rich gravy all combined to create the ultimate comfort food. In fact, this French Canadian food is so popular now that it can now be found all around the world. The classic version is great on its own but toppings like pulled pork, bacon and smoked meat really knock it out of the park – and it won’t break the bank either.
MONTREAL SMOKED MEAT:
A cross between corned beef and pastrami, typically served on rye bread smeared with a yellow tangy mustard. Developed by Jewish delis in Montreal and influenced by New York City’s pastrami, this succulent sandwich is traditionally made by salting and curing beef brisket with spices. Smoky and savory with a peppery zing, it’s no wonder this meaty delicacy has been so popular since the early 1900’s.
MAPLE SYRUP:
Maple syrup is made from the sap of sugar maple trees and over 80% of the world’s supply is now produced in the province of Quebec. Many factors influence maple syrup flavors and not unlike gourmet foods such as chocolate, wine, olive oil and fine cheese – maple syrup has a rich and wide selection. Maple syrup taffy is a simple ‘easy to make’ treat that has been popular in Canada for centuries; all you do is pour fresh syrup on cold snow, then scoop up the semi-hardened goop on a stick.
BANNOCK:
Delicious and versatile, bannock is a simple bread that was once a key staple in the diets of Canada’s Aboriginal people (particularly the Métis of western Canada). Modern takes on bannock include baked versions (which are heavy/dense) and fried versions (which are crispy and fluffy on the inside). In recent years, bannock has seen a surge in popularity, with new twists and variations popping up in bakeries and cafes nationwide – you just have to try it!
NANAIMO BARS:
Named after the British Columbian city of Nanaimo, these popular layered cookie bars require no baking and essentially is a layered cookie bar. The three layers consist of a graham wafer crumb and shredded coconut base, custard-flavored butter icing in the middle and a chocolate ganache on top – which gives the bar a perfect crunch.
TIMBITS:
Is there anything more quintessentially Canadian than a double-double (a coffee with 2 creams and 2 sugars) and a box of Timbits from the fast food chain Tim Horton’s? Answer = NO. Timbits are bite-sized, round balls of fried dough (aka donut holes) available in all the same flavors as the real thing and for 10 for a loonie ($1) they are a real crowd pleaser!
CANADA'S NATIONAL DRINK:
All hail the CEASAR! Canada’s beloved cocktail made with vodka, clamato juice, worchestershire and tabasco sauce. It is typically served in a highball glass rimmed with celery salt and garnished with a celery stalk and a lime. If you are looking for the most EPIC Ceasar, look no further than ‘Score on Davie’ in Vancouver (BC) – where they have a whole menu dedicated to this national icon.
Canada’s 37+ million residents consume an estimated 400 million Caesars every year – however surprisingly, it has not achieved significant reach beyond Canada?
FOOD TOURS IN CANADA
If you are a foodie fanatic like me and like to eat your way through a country, I recommend you go on a food tour. The local insight of guides are amazing and give you a better understanding of the local cuisine, plus they know all the best spots. Listed below are my top recommended food tours in Canada:
VANCOUVER – Tantalize your taste buds as you enjoy a walking food tour of Vancouver’s historic Gastown. Enjoy this culturally rich area while you are taken to 9 eateries to enjoy some delicious food.
TORONTO – The Great Canadian Food Tour: Experience a walking food tour that showcases the iconic tastes born and made in Canada. Along with an expert guide, you will cover 6 local stores in the famed Kensington Market neighborhood.
MONTREAL – When it comes to food in Montreal the selection is endless. Learn about historical Montreal, while experiencing it’s most iconic dishes.
SUGGESTED READING FOR CANADA
Long bus, train or plane rides can get pretty boring and can give you a lot of ‘dead’ time. Whether that’s on a plane crossing the Pacific, on a ferry traveling to one of the coastal Islands or on a several day train ride across Canada, sometimes you need to find ways to keep yourself entertained. Personally, I have found that reading a good book is one of the best ways to pass the time and there’s nothing better than reading about the country you are in. In fact, sometimes reading a travel book can be as transformative as the journey itself.
Books about travel inspire us to go visit far off lands and imagine ourselves doing incredible things. Eat, Pray, Love is the book that actually inspired me to give up everything and start traveling the world!
This is my personal list of travel books that I recommend checking out before or during your trip to Canada. They are sure to inspire wanderlust in everyone who reads them. ENJOY!
I love Lonely Planet for so many reasons. It’s perfect for getting initially orientated with a country and then goes on to provide fun and useful tips, interesting side stories, historical info, trip suggestions, route planning sections and contains plenty of must-see’s and hidden gems. Yes, Lonely Planet is the gospel of all travel guide books and if you’re really stuck LP can be a lifesaver, sometimes literally (also available on kindle).
Learn tons of fun facts about the outrageous oddities and kooky charisma of the Land of Plenty: Canada! Get ready to be amazed and delighted by wacky facts, stats, tidbits and trivia, eh? In this latest and greatest edition of Weird But True, you’ll read all about the wacky wilds, bizarre bites and strange scenes of Canada!
From the early days of exploration and settlement to Canada’s participation in space exploration and the 2015 federal election, this illustrated history conveys the drama and scope of the nation. More than 450 illustrations accompany the text, including 200-plus photographs, 50-plus paintings and drawings, 35 historic maps, as well as posters, stamps, cartoons, stained glass and tapestries.
Based on the true story of Betty Ross, Elder from Cross Lake First Nation. Where at the age of 8 was taken away to a residential school. There she was forced to endure abuse and indignity, but Betsy recalled the words her father spoke to her at Sugar Falls – words that gave her the resilience, strength, and determination to survive (also available on kindle).
Not a reading book, rather a fun adult coloring book which celebrates Canada’s 150th birthday with 150 scenes that showcase the beauty and culture.
I travel light, so bringing books with me is not my preferred choice. That’s where the Kindle Paperwhite comes in incredibly handy. It is light-weight and waterproof, which means I’m free to read and relax at the beach or by the pool without any worries.
There are also FREE books you can get on Amazon for your kindle, such as my personal favorite; ‘Kicking Ass on the Road‘ The Ultimate Guide for the Solo Female Traveler.
MONEY SAVING TIPS FOR CANADA
As I’m sure you do, I always like to save money wherever I can on my travels. Here are some of my best money saving tips for Canada;
couch surf
Accommodation is not cheap in Canada, so this can save you a small fortune! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have an extra couch (or if you are lucky, a bed). You will meet great people that will also be happy to show you around too. It is one of my favorite travel services out there and I always walk away with friends.
HOUSE & PET SIT
Again, another great tip for getting free accommodation. Trusted Housesitters is a membership program that matches home & pet owners with travelers in trade for accommodation. The home is not left empty, the pets get to stay in the comfort of their own homes and the traveler gets to stay for free (a total win/win situation!).
GROUPON
This service connects users with local merchants by offering different deals for local goods, services, restaurants and tourist attractions for an incredibly low price (discounts can range from 50-90% off) and the best part is that it’s free to sign up.
COOK YOUR OWN FOOD
Eating out is expensive in Canada. Check out restaurant deals on Groupon (see tip above) or if staying any length of time , visit a local grocery store for snacks and meals. Also note that most bars and restaurants have appetizers on sale during their ‘happy hours’.
MINIMIZE YOUR DRINKING
Drinks add up, especially in Canada (yep you guessed it, where they are not exactly cheap). Consider stocking up at a local liquor store – just remeber though that drinking in public spaces is not legal in Canada.
VISIT A LOCAL TOURISM OFFICE
This is probably one of the most under used money saving travel tip out there! They are perfect to help you direct you towards free (or inexpensive) activities and upcoming local events and festivals.
BRING YOUR OWN WATER BOTTLE
Plastic is not bio-degradable and therefore presents a huge threat to the eco-system. Billions of bottles are produced every year and a lot of them end up in oceans polluting them for decateds to come. My small part to contribute to a greener earth is to use a water bottle with a filter. I use a LifeStraw bottle with a filter also because water is not fresh and drinkable in all countries. I protect my health, save money and thousands of plastic bottles – all at the same time!
FUN FACTS ABOUT CANADA
Canadian Goose
I love learning about the countries I travel to and I especially love learning fun and unusual facts, here are a few fun facts I’d like to share with you about Canada:
DO YOU SPEAK GOOSE?
The third official language of Canada is “goose” – just kidding. But Canadian geese are highly vocal and have as many as 13 different distinctive calls.
CANADA, Eh?
The famous Canadian interjection “eh” is actually listed in the Canadian Oxford Dictionary as a valid word.
SANTA IS A CANADIAN
Canada’s Immigration Minister declared in 2012 that Santa Claus was indeed a Canadian citizen. He also suggested that this is why his signature look is a red and white suit – the colors of Canada. To send letters to Santa, children (anywhere in the world, in any language) can use this address: Santa Claus, North Pole, H0H 0H0, Canada.
THE SNAKE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD?
Although most people would believe Australia is the snake capital of the world, Manitoba actually has the world’s largest concentration of snakes. In May, 70,000 snakes come out of hibernation in the Prairie province.
CANADA'S LOCHNESS MONSTER
Ogopogo is a mythical monster similar to the Loch Ness Monster that supposedly lives in Lake Okanagan, B.C.
HAWAIIAN PIZZA:
Despite the name, Hawaiian pizza was actually invented by a man from Ontario, not by the Hawaiians.
CANADIANS ARE KNOWN FOR THEIR POLITENESS
In fact, they say sorry so much that the ‘Apology Act’ was passed in 2009, which made apologies inadmissible in court. So an apology “means an expression of sympathy or regret” and not “an admission of fault or liability in connection with the matter to which the words or actions relate.”
THE OFFICIAL NUMBER FOR CANADA:
Is 1-800-O-Canada, just in case you ever want to give them a call…
FINAL THOUGHTS
Oh, Canada! From culture, to food, to wildlife, to experiences – Canada has a little bit of something for everyone. All the way from the roaring waters of Niagara Falls to the rugged peaks of the Canadian Rockies, there is an outstanding natural beauty in every part of Canada. Everything you need to do is pick a place and start exploring!
If you were not already considering Canada for your next vacation, you probably should be. Why? No matter what you look for when you travel, Canada can deliver. Want outdoor adventure? It has got that. Food, art, culture? There is plenty of that, too!!!
I truly hope that you have enjoyed my ‘Traveler’s Guide to Canada’ and it helps you to plan your perfect D.I.Y. visit to The Great White North. I always enjoy returning home and I appreciate it even more so, each and every time I do.
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Hi, my name is Emma and I’m so happy to see you here. I hope to provide you with valuable information, travel ideas and inspiration. It’s an amazing world out there and I want to help you discover the very best of it!
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