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Country facts

When to visit

May–September is warm + dry (Pacific Northwest excepted). December–March excellent for Banff + Whistler skiing. Avoid mosquito-heavy June in Manitoba/Ontario.

Typical costs (USD)

Toronto + Vancouver expensive. Smaller cities (Calgary, Halifax) drop 30%. Tipping culture similar to US — budget 15-20%.

Essential phrases

Numbers

What to pack

• Layers — Canadian weather is famously changeable
• Type A/B plug adapter (same as US)
• Tuque/beanie + warm gloves Nov-Mar
• Insect repellent for summer (mosquitoes are real)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Compact rain shell

Cultural notes

• Quebec is French-speaking — try 'Bonjour' first in Montreal / Quebec City
• Apologizing is reflexive even for things that aren't your fault
• Distances are vast — Vancouver to Halifax is farther than London to Moscow
• Tax (GST/PST) added at checkout, varies by province
• Politeness is genuine, not performative — match the register

Universal courtesies

• Try a greeting in the local language even if it's the only word you know — it's appreciated everywhere.
• Match local dress norms when entering religious sites, government buildings, or rural areas.
• Ask before photographing people, especially children or in religious settings.
• Tipping customs vary — never assume your home country's expectation applies.
• Remove shoes when entering homes if your host does; watch their cue.
• Keep voices lower than at home in temples, mosques, museums, public transport.
• Hands and gestures mean different things across cultures — observe before reaching out.
• Cash + cards: rural areas often need cash; major cities take cards. Carry small notes.
• Don't compare countries to each other in front of locals — every culture stands on its own.
• If you don't know the etiquette, watching for 30 seconds usually teaches it.