Canada Travel Guide

A sense of immensity pervades any cross-country tour of Canada. In a space of 3,855,102 sq mi/9,984,670 sq km, just slightly more than 30 million people occupy it, 90% of whom cling to the warmer areas near its southern border with the U.S. But the country is far from empty. If you're traveling via Canada's excellent road network, you may have trouble concentrating on your driving with the abundance of natural beauty looming beyond your windshield. And you'll be tempted to park your car for days as you enjoy the neighborly hospitality of its world-class cities.

From the fogs of Halifax Harbour to the quaint sophistication of Montreal, the international vivacity of Toronto and the nearby honeymoon mecca of Niagara Falls, the eastern half of the country can easily occupy the span of a multiweek tour. But the wide-open spaces of the west and the vistas of a wild northern frontier will satisfy the appetite of anyone in search of an adventure in an untamed, magnificent wilderness. From the heartlands of Winnipeg and Saskatoon to the awe-inspiring Rockies surrounding Calgary and Edmonton, Canada's west will elicit the cowboy in even the strictest city dweller. Regardless of where you venture, you'll welcome the opportunity to lose yourself in Canada's vastness.

Overview

Canada is a generally safe destination, which accounts for its risk rating of 3. Although it's the northern neighbor of the United States, Canada historically has had a much lower rate of violent crime.

Overview

High-risk Areas
None.

Political/social/economic conditions

Canada is a constitutional monarchy with a federal system, a parliamentary government and strong democratic traditions. The 1982 Charter of Rights guarantees basic rights in many areas. Queen Elizabeth II, as Queen of Canada, appoints a governor general on the advice of the Canadian prime minister, who serves as the queen's representative in the country.

The prime minister is the leader of the political party in power and is the head of the cabinet. The cabinet remains in office as long as it retains majority support in the 308-member parliament. The governor general, on the advice of the prime minister, fills vacancies in the 104-member Senate, whose members serve until the age of 75. Recent constitutional initiatives have sought unsuccessfully to strengthen the Senate by making it elective and assigning it a greater regional representational role. Conservative Leader Stephen Harper currently serves as prime minister.

In November 2005, former Prime Minister Paul Martin led an unprecedented two-day summit to address the needs of Canada's indigenous people--known as First Nations--that resulted in a proposal for a program to fight poverty in native communities. Canada's 1 million aboriginals make up 3.3% of the population and face problems such as housing shortages, higher teenage pregnancy and suicide rates, and lower life expectancy and school graduation rates than the non-aboriginal population. An estimated 40% of the aboriginal population lives in poverty, compared with 15.7% of the country as a whole.

In September 2008 Harper called for an early general election on 14 October 2008 in a bid to strengthen his minority Conservative government. The vote was Canada's third national election in four years. Harper's Conservative party won a majority of 143 seats, with the Liberal party taking 77 and the Bloc Quebecois taking 49.

High living standards mark the Canadian economy, but a general "brain-drain" caused by emigration to the United States, where lower tax rates and a generally favorable business environment are present has been a concern for some time.

Since World War II, the impressive growth of the manufacturing, mining and service sectors has transformed Canada from a largely rural economy into one that is primarily industrial and urban. The 1989 U.S.-Canada Free Trade Agreement and 1994 North American Free Trade Agreement have touched off a dramatic increase in trade and economic integration with the rest of North America.

With its great natural resources, skilled labor force and modern capital plant, Canada enjoys solid economic prospects. However, nationwide and provincial strikes of various unions and professions are common, particularly in the teaching and medical fields.

Political/social/economic conditions

International terrorism
Intelligence officials' belief that as many as 50 terrorist cells might be operating in the country has been vindicated numerous times in recent years.

Security authorities in early September 2008 reported they had foiled a plot to attack Israeli airline crews in Toronto. In October 2008, a bomb exploded near a gas pipeline in British Columbia--although police characterized the incident as a crime, some experts believe it was a terrorist attack. A few days later, police discovered what they called a "functional" bomb in a downtown store in Prince George, British Columbia.

In June 2006, police arrested more than a dozen people who allegedly had stockpiled ammonium nitrate fertilizer for use in at least one major bombing attack in Toronto. Security forces described plans for the bomb plot as "al-Qaida inspired."

That followed an incident in November 2005, when police in Toronto reported they had broken up a terrorist cell that included an al-Qaida-trained explosives expert. The group reportedly was linked to an Algerian-based organization now known as al-Qaida in Islamic North Africa.

Political/social/economic conditions

Separatist movements
French-speaking Quebec continues to represent a strong secessionist faction. However, the activities of secessionist groups have been largely nonviolent and are unlikely to pose any serious threat to visitors.

Political/social/economic conditions

Border and regional issues
In August 2007, days after Russia laid claim to the North Pole, Prime Minister Harper stressed Canada's long-standing claims in the Arctic region. Melting polar ice has led to competing claims about access to Arctic resources, and several other countries with territories bordering the Arctic have launched competing claims to the seabed below the North Pole.

Canada and the U.S. are engaged in a dispute about the future of the Northwest Passage, the partially frozen waterway that links the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The U.S. says it regards it as an international strait but Canada has vociferously defended the passage as its territory.

Political/social/economic conditions

Religious and sectarian issues
In late 2006 and early 2007, two incidents involving small bombs detonated at Jewish centers in Montreal were reported. No one has been injured so far, but the possibility that such incidents could escalate can't be discounted. Montreal is home to the largest Jewish community in Canada.

Political/social/economic conditions

Civil unrest
A riot erupted in Montreal in August 2008 between police and a group of multi-ethnic youths after the shooting death of a young Honduran man by police. During the violence, some 20 stores were looted, firefighters were pelted with beer bottles, and one police officer was shot and wounded.

Community activists say multi-ethnic residents in northern Montreal, an area sometimes referred to as "the Bronx of Montreal" because of its similarity to a New York City neighborhood with a similar rough reputation, don't trust the police and harbor festering resentments of the treatment of minorities by law enforcement. Gang activity in the area has become a problem, as well, activists say.

In April 2008, a riot broke out in Montreal after the home-town hockey team won a playoff game. In that incident, a mob torched police cars and broke into several stores.

Political/social/economic conditions

Additional information
In January 2007, the provincial government of Newfoundland and Labrador announced that on 11 March 2007 clocks would jump forward an hour. The move follows a legislative change approved in 2006 in the house of assembly and brings the province in line with similar changes in the U.S. and most other Canadian provinces. In future, therefore, daylight saving will commence on the second Sunday in March, and end on the first Sunday in November.

Crime

Although criminal activity is more common in urban areas, violent crimes such as murder, armed robbery and rape are infrequent throughout the country. Gun crime has become a major concern in Toronto, however, as gang activity has increased.

Crime

Petty crime
Parked cars often are targeted for "smash-and-grab" thefts. The incidence of such crimes has reached such proportions in Montreal and some other areas that police can impose fines on motorists who leave their cars unlocked or leave valuables in view.

In July 2006, police warned that pickpockets have been targeting elderly travelers in Toronto's Pearson airport. They watch for vulnerable targets outside Terminal 1, where one thief will approach a victim and pretend to help them obtain a taxi while another steals the victim's bags or purse.

Crime

Violent crime
The nation was shocked in July 2008 when a passenger on a Winnipeg-Edmonton bus was stabbed and then decapitated despite the presence of more than 30 other passengers. Police refused to release many details, but witnesses said the victim was stabbed while sleeping in his seat. The gruesome crime has led to calls for weapons checks on intercity buses; local media report that Greyhound bus drivers have taken matters into their own hands by limiting carry-on baggage on buses.

Vancouver has seen a rise in firearm violence attributed to gang activity. Gunmen sprayed a restaurant in Vancouver with gunfire in early August 2007, leaving two people dead and several others injured. It's not yet known what motivated the killings. In November 2007, three people were killed by gunfire in two separate incidents.

Some places in Canada have experienced a wave of so-called "swarming" robberies, in which groups of two or more criminals working together approach, intimidate and rob a victim. The robberies are usually at knifepoint, but guns also have been used. Usually the victims are left unhurt, but some have been punched or kicked.

Asian women were the victims in five purse-snatching incidents in Vancouver in December 2007. The attackers, sometimes an invidual and sometimes a pair, brutalized the women during the attacks.

Police in Winnipeg are searching for a man suspected in a series of violent sexual assaults. The most recent assault occurred in September 2008.

Crime

Sexual assault
To reduce the risk of sexual assault, it's important to remain aware of your surroundings and the people around you--if a place or situation doesn't feel safe, leave. Keep your wits about you and don't dull your senses with alcohol or drugs. Don't walk alone in deserted areas, especially after dark. Park your car in well-lit areas. Do not enter a taxi that contains other passengers and do not allow your driver to pick up additional passengers. Don't accept food or drinks from strangers--they could be drugged. Never pick up hitchhikers or accept a ride from a stranger. Ask a female employee at your hotel what neighborhoods to avoid. In your hotel, do not give clues to your gender or vulnerability by leaving food trays outside your door. Check with the hotel to verify the identity of employees who come to your room. Do not enter your room if anyone is loitering nearby in the hall.

Crime

Organized crime
Organized crime is on the rise in Canada, according to authorities, and law enforcement is ill-equipped to cope with the situation. The larger organized crime groups use street gangs to pull off large-scale operations.

Crime

Police effectiveness
Provinces across the country have been experiencing reductions in local police and Royal Canadian Mounted Police resources, but response to a crime in progress will be prompt.

Natural hazards

Hurricanes, wildfires, blizzards and avalanches are among the potential natural hazards in Canada. The provinces of British Columbia, Ontario and western portions of Quebec lie in an active seismic zone and are subject to earthquakes. Smog can be a problem in some larger cities.

Natural hazards

Hurricanes, cyclones and typhoons
Hurricanes in the Atlantic can range far enough north in summer and fall to affect coastal areas in eastern Canada. Hurricane Kyle made landfall in southern Nova Scotia in September 2008.

Natural hazards

Tornadoes
Although uncommon, tornadoes and tornadic winds can occur in Canada.

Natural hazards

Currents and tides
Rip currents and tides can be dangerous around the North Shore of Prince Edward Island. A man died after being caught in a rip current in August 2007.

Natural hazards

Animals
Black bears and grizzlies can pose a serious danger in wilderness areas. Contact local authorities about possible bear encounters before hiking or camping in the wild. Authorities in British Columbia say the number of bears foraging for food close to residential neighborhoods has significantly increased since 2003, with a consequent increase in attacks on humans.

In March 2007, following attacks by moose, conservation officials in British Columbia said that people going outdoors in the Prince George area should keep an eye out for roaming moose and leave the area if they are seen.

Natural hazards

Bears
Though they may look cute or funny, bears are very dangerous. Bears are most likely to attack when they are defending a cub, guarding a fresh kill and/or when they have become accustomed to eating human food. To prevent an attack, take pains to eliminate food odors in and around your vehicle or campsite, as well as on your clothing. Stay away from dead animals, because a bear may attempt to defend the carcass as a food source. Make some noise (some people sing) while walking through concealing brush--a bear that is surprised may react aggressively, but if it hears you coming, it usually will avoid you. The presence of a dog can antagonize a bear and motivate it to attack. If confronted by a bear, talk to it. Make sure it sees you. Hold your arms high above your head to make yourself look like a much bigger animal. Continue to talk and slowly back away. If you run or try to climb a tree, the bear will chase you. Bears can run and climb much more quickly than humans. If a bear attacks, drop into a fetal position and protect your head and neck with your arms. Keep your backpack on. Even if it bites you, continue to play dead, and the bear might leave. If the attack continues, fight back with anything you can and shout loudly. Try to strike the bear's eyes or snout. The best defense in areas where bears are present is a firearm (where permitted) or capsaicin-based bear spray.

Natural hazards

Bush or forest fires
Forest fires can be a hazard in dry conditions. In May 2007 forest fires in the northwest and north-central regions of Quebec forced more than 1,000 people to flee an eastern reserve.

Natural hazards

Extreme cold conditions/avalanches
Winter conditions can be harsh, with below-freezing temperatures, ice and snow. Roads can become dangerous and, in some remote areas, impassible.

Visitors planning outdoor activities in the mountains should monitor avalanche conditions. For information on snow, terrain and weather conditions, visit the Canadian Avalanche Association Web site at http://www.avalanche.ca or call 1-800-667-1105.

Natural hazards

Driving on ice/snow
Before driving in harsh winter conditions, make sure that your car is in good working order. Dress warmly and take along preventive supplies, such as a flashlight, windshield scraper, snow shovel and an abrasive material, such as sand, that you can use for traction if get you stuck. Most importantly, slow down, steer smoothly and leave a good measure of extra space between your vehicle and those around you. Shift to low gear when driving downhill. Watch for ice on bridges and overpasses. If your car goes into a skid, don't brake, but ease off the accelerator and steer smoothly in the direction you want to go.

Natural hazards

Avalanches
Most avalanches occur on slopes with an inclination of 35-45 degrees, especially after a rapid change in the weather (new snowfall or an extended thaw). Before venturing out to backcountry slopes, familiarize yourself with local conditions. Avoid skiing, snowboarding or snowmobiling less than 24 hours after a storm, and never go alone. If you must traverse a slope that you're not sure is stable, you and your party should go across one at a time so that others in the group can perform a rescue and call for help if the worst happens. Every member of your group should wear a transceiver and carry a lightweight shovel and collapsible probe to aid in quickly rescuing someone buried in the snow.

Natural hazards

Preventing hypothermia/frostbite
If you must go out during conditions of extreme cold, cover exposed skin and dress in layers of clothing that fit comfortably--the outermost layer should be as windproof as possible. Make sure to wear a hat--the head loses heat even through the hair. Wool, silk and polypropylene fabrics are best for retaining heat. Keep hands and feet dry. Avoid alcohol and eat high-calorie foods to help maintain body heat, as well as drinking plenty of water to prevent dehydration.

Natural hazards

Additional information
Landslides can occur along highways in rocky or mountainous areas.

New Brunswick is home to the Bay of Fundy, where extraordinary tides come and go. The tidal surge can be dangerous, creating high waves and very rapid flooding that can overtake the unwary. Observe posted safety precautions when visiting the area.

Health & medical care

Very good medical care is widely available. The Canadian health-care system is run on a provincial basis (i.e., each province and territory has its own plan) and is funded by tax money. Tourists and temporary visitors do not qualify for this health-care plan and should have their own insurance to cover any medical expenses. Health-care professionals in the province of Quebec might speak only French.

Health & medical care

Emergency care
Crowding in Canada's emergency rooms has become a problem. Waits for treatment can be long.

Health & medical care

Diseases
Infections of the C. difficile bacteria, which can cause severe diarrhea, are often reported at hospitals. The bacterial infection is most likely to occur during flu season because antibiotics can disrupt the normal, benign bacteria in the gastrointestinal system, paving the way for C. difficile to propagate.

Mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus are present, so take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. The risk is highest during summer months. In August 2007, the health authorities warned that the number of West Nile virus cases in the prairies had exploded, with some experts warning that the worst was yet to come. Children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of developing symptoms.

Small mammals can carry rabies, and a few cases have been reported each year recently. Seek medical attention if you're even nipped by an animal.

Tuberculosis can be a problem in areas of Manitoba, with yearly outbreaks of the disease. Check with local authorities.

A rare disease known as blastomycosis has been showing up in southeastern Manitoba and northwestern Ontario for several years. The illness, caused by a fungus in soil, can be fatal if not treated. If you have reason to dig in the soil in wooded areas, wearing a dust mask is advisable.

Health & medical care

Avoiding mosquito bites
Mosquitoes carry many serious illnesses, including dengue fever, malaria and West Nile virus. To prevent bites and avoid infection, reduce the amount of exposed skin by wearing long sleeves, long pants, socks and shoes when you're outdoors. Use insect repellent containing deet on exposed skin. Avoid outdoor activities from dusk to dawn, the time when mosquitoes are most active.

Health & medical care

Waterborne diseases
Waterborne diseases can cause a variety of serious health problems, including cholera, norovirus and amebiasis. In areas where chlorinated water is not available or where hygiene and sanitation are generally poor, you should consider both liquid water and ice unsafe. Stick to the following, which generally are considered safe: Beverages made with boiled water, such as tea and coffee; canned or bottled carbonated beverages; beer; and wine. It's usually safer to drink beverages directly from the bottle or can, but be sure to wipe off any water on the outside of the container. In areas where water may be contaminated, avoid brushing your teeth with tap water.

Health & medical care

Additional information
Canada is undergoing a shortage of doctors, and the number of retiring physicians is expected to increase dramatically over the next several years.

Transportation

All aspects of transportation infrastructure are excellent.

Exercise caution when driving in northern British Columbia--a recent study showed that the accident rate for the region is double that in the rest of the province. Factors contributing to this include more severe winter weather, an increase in logging and mining vehicles, and driver fatigue.

Transportation

Road conditions
In winter, ice and snow can make roads dangerous and, in some remote areas, impassible.

Motorists should watch for wildlife such as moose on roads in rural areas.

Transportation

Public transportation
In July 2008 police in Vancouver cautioned women at train stations after several had been sexually assaulted at the Nanaimo, Edmonds and Royal Oak Sky train stations. They also warned of the dangers of wearing headphones as one woman was attacked while listening to her personal stereo when a man approached her from behind.

Transportation

Air travel
Do not make jokes or flippant remarks about bombs or other terrorist activities in Canadian airports.

Transportation

Additional information
Passengers boarding intercity trains may be subject to random police-dog searches of their luggage for explosives or drugs.

Travelers to Nova Scotia should note that in mid-January 2008 a new law comes into effect banning smoking in cars when children and teens are present--anyone caught violating the ban can expect a stiff fine. There's also a ban on using cell phones while driving in Quebec and Nova Scotia.

Infrastructure

Travelers' facilities are widely available, but in northern and wilderness areas they are less developed and can be vast distances apart.

Travel precautions

No matter how safe you perceive a destination to be, it's important to use good judgment.

• Pay attention to local media.
  
• Avoid open displays of wealth, jewelry or other valuables. Safeguard travel documents such as passports and airline tickets.
  
• Avoid confrontations with locals.
  
• Avoid demonstrations and protests, especially if they appear political in nature.
  
• Don't permit people you don't know to enter your accommodations. Keep your door locked. Don't leave valuables in your room unless they can be locked in a safe.
  
• Avoid illegal drugs, and don't drink alcohol if its use is prohibited. Even if drinking is legal, don't overindulge.
  
• Be cautious of unsolicited offers of assistance from strangers.

In recent years, political terrorism has become a global phenomenon - an attack could occur with little warning anywhere in the world, even in destinations long regarded as safe. Travelers should keep themselves informed of developments that could affect their safety, no matter what their destination.

Etiquette

Because it encompasses a vast area, Canada contains a wide range of peoples and practices. Most striking are the contrasts between the French-speaking province of Quebec and the other provinces and territories, where English is usually the dominant language.

Appointments—Appointments should be established well in advance. Punctuality is expected.

Personal Introductions—Direct eye contact, a nod and a firm handshake are all in order. Canadians smile easily. Use the appropriate title and the person's last name until instructed to do otherwise. Professional titles are important. When possible, they should be used in place of the standard "Mr." and "Ms." or Monsieur, Madame and Mademoiselle. If you are visiting Quebec, business cards and all written materials should be translated into French.

Negotiating—Small talk will be a relatively unimportant part of the session, and business will quickly take center stage. Canadians have a strong sense of independence, particularly when dealing with Europeans and those from the U.S. Avoid making broad assumptions that equate Canada with the U.S. Resist the urge to oversell yourself or your product.

Business Entertaining—Business may be conducted at all meals, but allow your host to lead into the business discussion, particularly at dinner meetings, which have a heavier social connotation.

Body Language—In the English-speaking parts of the country, personal space is kept relatively wide, and there is little direct contact while speaking. This is less true in Quebec, where people tend to be less reserved. In all parts of the country, Canadians tend to become comfortable with new acquaintances quickly. As they do, they become less formal.

Gift Giving—Gift giving is not an important part of business. Flowers, wine or candy are appropriate when visiting a home.

Conversation—Canadian history is a prime topic, and you are well served by knowing some. If you are from the United States, do not refer to yourself as an "American" and your hosts as "Canadian" (Canadians are American, too). Canadians tend to poke fun at their own governmental woes and social policies, but it is not appropriate for outsiders to do so. The division between French- and English-speaking Canada is a politically charged topic, so tread carefully. So, too, are issues related to the indigenous population. Remember that the native population of northern Canada are properly referred to as Inuits, not Eskimos. While you shouldn't assume every Canadian is a hockey enthusiast, many are, and they enjoy discussing the sport.

Other Information—Canadians sometimes perceive those from the U.S. as being loud, arrogant and overbearing. U.S. citizens who make efforts to avoid these stereotypes will often be received more positively.

General

The differing cultural patterns in a country as vast as Canada make establishing broad guidelines for cultural norms difficult. The individual provinces have their own characteristics, especially concerning the cultural differences between French-speaking Quebec and the other provinces. French Canada, in particular, has a more distinctive cultural more deriving from its French heritage. As a general rule, Canadians tend to be somewhat more reserved and conservative in their demeanor than their friends to the south.

As a generality, Canadians tend to be better informed politically and more culturally aware than their counterparts in the United States. However, like their U.S. neighbors, Canadians place a high premium on individuality and individual integrity.

Personal Introductions

Direct eye contact, a nod and a firm handshake are all in order during introductions. Canadians are known for their warmth and friendliness and smile easily. Use the acquaintance's last name until instructed to do otherwise. Professional titles are important.

Business cards may be exchanged at any juncture of a meeting, but most typically midway through or toward the conclusion of a meeting. In French-speaking Quebec, a strong working knowledge of French is helpful, and business cards should be printed in your native language and in French. While acquaintances may kiss on the cheek in the manner of the French, this typically does not occur upon introduction.

A man will usually wait for a woman to extend her hand first, although this particular practice is becoming less frequent. Men may stand when a woman they are being introduced to enters the room, but it is not necessary to do so for someone they have met before. Again, as with many gender issues, the mores change from locale to locale and it is best to treat male and female counterparts as equals.

Age is sometimes a factor in introductions, particularly when the eldest is also the highest ranking. People are typically introduced in order according to rank or position. Early business conversations are professional and relatively formal. Allow your host to set the level of familiarity.

Body Language & Gestures

A wide personal space is the norm for Canadians, with little body touching. Canadians warm quickly in many situations. Conversation and body language will quickly grow less formal as a relationship matures. Pointing at people with the index finger is considered impolite. The "thumbs-up" gesture and the "OK" gesture with the thumb and index finger forming a circle both are acceptable and indicate agreement or approval.

In the early stages of a relationship, you should not expect or engage in friendly pats on the back from local business contacts and hosts. Men will sometimes embrace one another in greeting when previously acquainted.

It is not impolite to place your hands on your hips or to cross your arms while having a conversation, but avoid appearing aggressive or hostile while doing so.

Conversation

Canadians have a strong sense of independence, particularly when dealing with Europeans and those from the United States of America. Avoid making broad assumptions that would equate them with the U.S. The pace may be somewhat slower than in the U.S. Nevertheless, small talk will be a relatively unimportant part of the session and business will take center stage quickly.

Canadian history is a prime topic, and you are well served by knowing some. If you are from the U.S., do not refer to yourself as an "American" as set off against "Canadian" (Canadians are American, too). Ask questions about Canadian culture and history. Remember that Canadian heritage is not homogenous: It is British, French, Native Amerian, Asian, Indian and a multitude of other influences.

Canadians tend to poke fun at their own governmental woes and social policies, but it is not appropriate for outsiders to do so. If you speak of aboriginal issues, remember that it is a very sensitive topic and that the native Americans of the northern climes are "Inuit" not "Eskimo" or "Indian." If you speak hockey, you are ahead of the game.

Business Appointments

Punctuality is important and appointments should be established well in advance. It is not necessary to have a Canadian intermediary, but associates from the United States are well advised to be reserved and modestly deferential in their early forays with Canadian partners. Although Canadians enthusiastically embrace free enterprise ideals and admire the ability of their U.S. counterparts to accomplish objectives, they are cautious of perceived U.S. hegemony. Visitors are expected to be punctual and can expect their local business contacts to extend the same courtesy. However, in practice, it is not uncommon to experience minor delays.

Business Negotiating

Canadians negotiate in a straightforward manner, bridging the styles of their U.S. and British counterparts. Because of the multicultural composition of the business community, however, it is not uncommon for other ethnic influences to assert themselves in business negotiations and concourse.

The majority of meetings are conducted in offices. However, it is not uncommon to conduct business over meals if appropriate. The pace of business, though direct, will tend to be more on a European time scale, with time and attention paid to formalities and a period of acquaintance. Meetings usually commence with a brief period of small talk. Suitable subjects include the weather, sports and the visitor’s impressions of the city. There are no special rituals or practices during meetings. Only light refreshments are likely to be served during a meeting (tea, coffee, etc.).

The marital status of visitors does not affect the conduct or success of business meetings.

The key to successful business negotiations is to create a win-win situation. Whether this proves to be a hard sell or a soft sell will depend very much on the individuals involved. Canadians have no adversity to frank discussion and to declining offers to do business in situations in which they are not comfortable.

Meals & Entertainment

Business may be conducted at all meals, but allow your host to lead into the business topics, particularly at dinner meetings which have a heavier social connotation. On rarer occasions, business will be conducted over breakfast. Again, it is best to permit the host to lead the conversation one direction or another.

If you need to excuse yourself from a meal, do just that at a suitable pause in the conversation.

Drinking alcohol is commonplace in Canada, but avoid overindulgence. In business settings, it is entirely optional and a matter of individual choice.

Simple, informal toasts involve raising a glass and saying "Cheers.” At more formal gatherings, glasses are raised in response to a speech, and a group response is elicited.

Meals are typically served in courses. Except at a formal dinner, it is common to have two courses, either an appetizer or salad and main dish or a main dish and a dessert. Occasionally meals are served buffet style for medium to large gatherings.

It is appropriate to eat everything served to you at a meal, and your host will be pleased if you enjoy it.

If you don't like the taste of something, deal with it discreetly, and usually no one will comment about it.

If a host invites visitors to a restaurant, the host will pay.

Tipping is not compulsory in Canada. However, in a business situation it is appropriate. Tips are at your discretion but need not be more than 15%.

If you have special dietary requirements, it is appropriate to advise your host of this in advance. It is acceptable to decline any food that is a problem.

There are no specific rules for the use of utensils, but it is polite to use both a knife and fork for the main course. When finished, leave cutlery facing upward in the middle of your plate.

You are seldom expected to eat with your hands. If the type of food is easier to eat in that way, be guided by what your host does.

Keep your napkin in your lap while eating.

Dress

Canada retains much of its European heritage and influence in matters of business attire. In a business setting, the safest course of action dictates conservative dress, particularly in the early stages of a relationship. Over the course of time, the dress code between associates often relaxes considerably, but seldom to the degree found in the United States.

For city meetings, a business suit, shirt and tie are appropriate for men, and smart trousers and a blazer-style jacket are appropriate for less formal meetings. Women may wear business suits, but less formal black or dark clothes are also common—usually skirts and dresses rather than trousers.

Overly flamboyant or provocative clothing is discouraged in both social and business settings.

Gift Giving

Gift-giving is practiced only lightly in business settings. When visiting the home of a Canadian, a small gift is appreciated, such as flowers or a good wine. Gifts from your native country are appreciated, as are dinners and other social outings where your hosts become your guests. If a gift is wrapped, it is permissible to open the gift immediately.

Gender Issues

Gender equality is the norm as it is throughout much of the Western world. No special considerations or differential behavior should be exhibited toward women in business or commercial settings. In informal settings, practices vary, tending toward a gentle but not overt deference and consideration provided to women.

There are no obstacles to foreign women conducting business in Canada. In theory they will be treated the same as their male counterparts. In reality, this may vary according to individual personalities.

There are no restrictions on women visiting places or attending events.

A woman's marital status has no bearing on how she is treated in business settings. Women are unlikely to experience unwanted attention or censure when unaccompanied in public, except perhaps in public bars. However, it is acceptable to be alone in the better hotel bars.

Other Useful Information

Visitors are not normally expected to remove their shoes when entering a home.

Visitors can expect their hosts to be familiar with general current affairs and basic economic news concerning other countries.

Complimenting a host's possessions may be done at the visitor’s discretion.

A visitor’s choice of hotel is generally seen as a reflection of the quality of the visitor's company.

Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Police conduct vigorous campaigns against speeding and drunken driving. Visitors should carefully consider the distances involved before opting to drive between destinations as Canada is a vast country.

Taboo & Other Issues

There are few taboos in conversation, but it is always best to take your lead from your hosts. Deference to Canadian independence, history and ideals is a good idea. Personal wealth, possessions and other topics regarding money are held in reserve and not typically a topic of discussion. Avoid talking about religion or anything that immediately creates divisions among people. While there is little reluctance to speak of politics, international issues or trade, political discussions are best avoided unless your host initiates them.

There are no specific religious taboos.

It is appropriate to inquire about the family members of an acquaintance.

Geostats

Passport/Visa Requirements: Beginning 8 January 2007, all U.S. citizens must have a passport when traveling by air to or from Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean, Central and South America and Mexico. Citizens of Canada, Mexico and the British Overseas Territory of Bermuda also must have a passport or other designated secure document to enter the U.S.

Beginning 1 June 2009, passports are required for land crossings at the Canadian and Mexican borders with the U.S. and for cruise passengers returning to the U.S. from Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada or Bermuda. Reconfirm travel-document requirements with your carrier prior to departure.

Time Zone: Daylight Saving Time is not observed.

Weather

Canada's climate ranges from subfreezing temperatures in the north to more moderate temperatures in the southern regions.

Please see individual provinces for detailed climate information.