Currency, exchange, banking

The legal currency in Canada is the Canadian dollar, which is divided into 100 cents. Be careful not to confuse it with the American dollar.The value of the Canadian dollar fluctuates with changes in international money market rates, and may range in value from US$ 0.60 to US$ 0.80. For information on the current value of the Canadian dollar compared with your home country currency check out this currency converter.

In Canada, you may convert your home country currency into Canadian dollars at most banks and foreign exchange outlets. You may also use your bank debit card to make withdrawals at the majority of automatic teller machines (ATMs) located in banks and public places across Canada. Travellers' cheques are also accepted in most department stores and hotels. Credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard and American Express are honoured almost everywhere.

Distances

Canada is a vast nation, larger in area than the entire European Community! It is therefore important to plan your itinerary carefully. For example, the trip by rail from Toronto to Vancouver takes three (3) days, during which you will experience forest wilderness, open prairie that stretches for kilometres on end, and the mountain majesty of the Canadian Rockies.

Weather and climate

As Canada is so vast, the climate can vary considerably from one region to another. The nation's southernmost tip at Pointe-Pêlée (Ontario) is situated at the same latitude as parts of northern California. However, the country's northern reaches extend deep into the Arctic.

Time zones

Canada stretches across a total of six times zones. Localities in Newfoundland and Labrador are five hours thirty minutes ahead of towns and cities in British Columbia. When it is noon in Paris or Frankfurt, clocks read 06:00 in Montréal and 03:00 in Victoria.

Business hours

Generally speaking, stores and offices are open from 09:00 to 17:00. Most stores are open Saturday - also Sunday in some provinces, and until 21:00 on Thursday and Friday, if not on other weeknights as well. Actual business hours vary from one province to another.

Languages spoken

English and French are the country's two official languages. French is spoken mainly in Québec, New Brunswick and parts of eastern Ontario, including the nation's capital at Ottawa.

Weights and measures

Although Canada has officially adhered to the metric system, many Canadians still use the Imperial system when expressing length, weight and volume. The use of both systems can be confusing from time to time. When in doubt, ask the person with whom you are dealing, which system he or she is using. Weather reports across the country are in Celsius degrees. Road signs and distances are all metric.

Electric current

Electric current in Canada is 110 volts, 60 cycle AC. An adaptor must be used with appliances from Europe or elsewhere that operate on a different voltage.
Tipping

Tipping and service charges vary between 10% and 15% for taxis, restaurants and nightclubs. Hotel, airport and rail station porters expect $1 per bag carried. On trains, you are free to tip your server in the dining car and the individual responsible for your room or berth in the sleeper car. Do remember, however, that the crew will change several times on long journeys.

Spirits and wine

The sale of spirits and wine is regulated and is generally limited to specialty shops open until 19:00. Actual business hours will vary from one province or territory to another. The minimum age required to consume an alcoholic beverage in a public place varies between 18 and 21 years depending upon the province or territory.

Cigarettes

Cigarette smoking is generally prohibited in shopping centres and public office buildings. If you wish to smoke in a restaurant, be certain to request a table in a smoking section. Cigarette smoking on trains is allowed in certain cars at certain specific times of day only.

Pets

Although practice varies from one province to the next, dogs are rarely allowed in restaurants.

Lodging

A vast choice of lodging and accommodation is available to visitors: hotels, motels, chalets, campgrounds, holiday packages, home-style bed and breakfasts, etc. It is always preferable to book ahead, especially during peak season.

Tourist information and attractions

Canada boasts a wealth of travel treasures waiting to be discovered: breathtaking countryscapes, and some of the finest museums in the world..

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