Canada! This beautiful place is a perfect destination for any holiday, as this country has everything each tourist would wish for. The country has a diverse but beautiful nature, rugged peaks, national parks, lakes, beaches, etc. But it also has lively, cosmopolitan cities that have world-renowned sites to see and experience. Canada also has countless UNESCO World Heritage sites that any traveller would be excited to visit. Although Canada is an inviting country for visitors, learning things to avoid doing in Canada can be the key to a respectful and enjoyable visit.
The country has various Canada Festivals and Events that take place throughout the year, drawing in tourists from around the globe. Be it winter carnivals or food and music festivals, there is always so much going on in the cities.
As it is said, Canadian tourist destinations offer a worthwhile getaway with a Canada visit visa and holds a strong reputation of being a polite and well-mannered nation. The people across the country are known for their humble and kind nature when it comes to the politest people in the world. Thus, it makes sense to be more polite and respectful when you visit Canada.
As they say, Canadian tourist spots are worth visiting with a Canada visit visa due to the mesmerizing scenery and the friendly locals. Canadians are known to be the most polite people in the world, and humble and kind-hearted in the entire country. That being said, you are also expected to be polite while exploring Canada.
But this is the most common way of exploring any destination. Every country has its own rules, regulations, beliefs, myths and practices. They all have their meanings and significance in Canadian culture, even if some might seem weird to us. So in order to have a safe and memorable trip, you need to have a basic understanding of all the things that you can and should not do in Canada.
What Not to Do in Canada
Assuming Toronto is the capital city of Canada
Toronto is NOT the capital of Canada. Most people get confused by the crowd and popularity in the city. Well, that’s wrong. Toronto is the most popular place and is the entry point into the country.
And this necessarily leads to the fallacy of assumption. Also, cities like Vancouver and Montreal are not the capital. So an important thing to be aware of Before you travel to Canada you should know is that Ottawa is the capital city. Ottawa is home to Canada’s federal government and the political heart of the country.
Travelling without knowing about the cost
Before moving or travelling to Canada, learn about the Cost of Living in Canada, especially in major cities such as Vancouver and Toronto. A thorough research will ensure that you are not suddenly caught off guard due to the cost here.
And don’t assume that healthcare will be free just because Canada has universal coverage. Visitors or new residents may be subject to costs such as prescription drugs, dental, ambulance fees etc.
Unexpected Things to Avoid Doing in Canada for a Better Experience
While exploring Canada, avoid being overly casual with wildlife encounters. Feeding wild animals, such as raccoons or bears, is not only dangerous but also illegal in many areas, as it disrupts natural ecosystems. Additionally, refrain from using drones in national parks without permits—this can lead to hefty fines as it disturbs the tranquility and wildlife. If you’re in Quebec, remember that jaywalking laws are strict, even at late hours, so always use designated crossings to avoid penalties. These small yet important actions ensure a smoother, more enjoyable Canadian adventure.
Disrespecting Maple Syrup
Being used as a leaf on the flag of Canada, the maple tree has undoubtedly represented the country in many ways. Made from the sap of maple trees, maple syrup is an iconic Canadian food product. Along with the syrup, the trees are also harvested for various other Canadian products. Quebec is the world’s biggest maple syrup producer. Don’t be surprised to see it in your pancakes, oatmeal, waffles and French toast. While you can find it in liquid state, but you can also find it in all sorts of forms like taffy, fudge, candy, powder, etc.
Criticizing Tim Hortons
Just like the maple syrup, Tim Hortons also holds its own significance among Canadians. Found by and named after a hockey player, Tim Hortons is more than just a coffee shop. It is a cultural institution in Canada; it is a famous multinational fast-food chain best known for serving delicious coffee and donuts. Since its establishment in 1965, Tim Hortons has become universal across the country and probably one of the major reasons why Canadians eat more doughnuts.
Commenting on French-English relations
The colonial past involving the overlapping English and French empires with a glorious legacy of indigenous domination, you can still find historical monuments that can still be controversial today.
While the majority of the country communicates in English, you can still find French in several locations. Quebec, being a prominent city of Canada, has French as its sole official language. However, the country never witnessed any large-scale violent conflict, and some tensions between the English and French still remain. As a tourist, you can learn some French that may come in handy during your exploration.
Getting onto public transport before everyone has exited
The major cities of Canada such as Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and Quebec experience rush hours where public transport in Canada can get chaotic. So, when Canadians get back to their suburbs after the work, they do not oppose getting into an overpopulated bus or train. It is considered rude to push people and make way onto public transit before the existing have exited. You can simply stand in the right or left of the doors and see if any commuters are getting off the transit and then board the bus or train.
Assuming the entire country is the same
As said, Canada is a vast and diverse country. Be it in terms of geography, people, and regional cultures. You are assured to find the provinces and territories having their own distinct history and customs. This makes exploration one of the most exciting things to do in the country. Exploring one region and assuming all of Canada is the same may hinder you from venturing through the real Canada. From the Prairies to Quebec, the west coast to the Maritimes, you are best advised to not make any brushstroke assumptions about Canadians when you are a tourist to the country.
Criticizing the Canadian Weather
Canada experiences varied temperatures from extremely cold to hot and humid during the peak of the summer season. If you are visiting from a country where temperatures are far more extreme than in Canada it is best to keep to yourself and not to try to outdo the Canadians. Canadians reserve their right to complain about their weather and cherish their hold as a cold northern nation. After all who wants to engage in such a conversation about weather and stuff?
Having an easy time at the border
The government of Canada issues various visas and policies regarding such. You can either come to the nation which is free from obtaining a visa or must mandatorily obtain a Canada visit visa. Some travellers can be more privileged than others. If you think it can be an easy peasy time while crossing the borders, it is best to wake up from such dreams. Canadian border authorities are helpful but are strict when it comes to the requirements and verification. So, make sure you hold and provide all the valid and original documents from your passport to all the necessary papers.
Returning an apology
It is the most common and probably accurate stereotype that Canadians are the politest. Canadians tend to say I’m sorry (or sorry) replacing words such as excuse me or pardon me. So, the meaning of every sorry goes beyond a basic apology. Though, it might contribute to the reputation of the country being polite, do not make the mistake of not returning an I’m sorry when it comes your way. Even if you unintentionally bump into or your foot was accidentally stepped on and they say sorry first, it is really rude to not respond to the apology.
Now the country has a lot of beautiful places too. While you’re in Canada, be sure to check out some of the unique places to visit in Canada like the expansive Banff National Park in Alberta or the massive tide changes in the Bay of Fundy along the coasts of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The vast landscapes of the Northwest Territories offer breathtaking scenery few get to witness. Cities like Quebec City and Vancouver seamlessly blend modern urban areas with historic architecture and natural beauty. Don’t miss out on the one-of-a-kind experiences Canada has to offer visitors.
If you find yourself near Niagara Falls, take a boat up close to feel the power of all that cascading water. On the East Coast, visit remote fishing villages and sample Atlantic lobster fresh from the sea. Few places in the world offer the diversity of landscapes and experiences you’ll discover exploring Canada’s provinces and territories.
Canada is a country covering almost 10 million sq. km packed with rich history, cultures, landscapes, and traditions. The people of Canada are police and might not be easily offended. But as a visitor, it is a basic manner to respect their country and culture having their unique customs. It may not be wrong in your way, but may offend Canadians. So, make sure you avoid doing these above-mentioned things, that will not only ensure a problem-free vacation but also allow you to understand more about the wonderful country.
FAQ’s