5 Things you should know before going to Canada

1. The Distances are long!

Don’t assume that you are going to be able to cover most of Canada during a short visit. It’s a huge country and getting from one city to the next involves travelling long distances. Many people don’t schedule enough time for their trip across Canada and find themselves rushing from one city to the next.

If you only have a limited amount of time, consider choosing a section of Canada to cover – such as the Rocky Mountains in Alberta, the West Coast of BC or the Maritimes. By focusing on one region, you’ll be able to spend more time and really enjoy yourself.

2. Prepare for the weather

In the winter it gets cold. Unless you are on the mild coast of BC where the weather is moderated by the Pacific Ocean, you can expect Siberian temperatures. On the prairies where I grew up, it was not unusual to see winter temperatures of -20, -30 degrees Celsius and below. With the windchill factor, it feels even colder. Bring a warm woolen hat (Canadians call it a toque), gloves and a scarf to wrap around your face to prevent numb extremities.

Even if you are visiting in the summer, there can be thunderstorms on the prairies and in the mountains the temperature dips at night.

3. Canadian Currency

Canada uses the Canadian dollar, unlike its neighbor to the south that uses the US dollar. Some Canada/U.S. border towns and major cities will accept both currencies, but you should familiarize yourself with Canadian money, where to get it, sales taxes, tipping, and more.

4. Healthcare

Canada does have an excellent "universal" health care system, but that's only for tax-paying citizens. If you do happen to fall ill in Canada and can't make it across the border to see a doctor, it'll end up being more expensive than in the US because of their taxes and fees. If you health insurance in America allows, you can submit your receipts for reimbursement, but you must know policy.

5. Expensive

Canada is expensive, and not just for residents. A 5% federal tax and a 13% harmonized sale tax is added to almost all goods and service purchases, making most purchases way more expensive than in America. However, unlike in the USA, the taxes are included in the price tag, so you always know what you’re going to pay. This is an incredibly convenient situation.