10 Things That SHOCK Tourists When They Visit Canada for the First Time

Ten Things That Will Shock You When You Visit Canada

Today we’re in Vancouver, British Columbia! I wanted to share with you the ten things that shock tourists when they visit Canada. Before I even get started, the one thing that you need to know above all else…

Canada Shock #0. Canada IS NOT A FROZEN WASTELAND ALL YEAR ROUND

You need to know that Canada is not a frozen wasteland all year-round! I know people think polar bears and snow when they think of Canada, but here in Vancouver, it hardly ever snows! The rest of the country is not snowy all year long. You can enjoy a wonderful hot summer in many parts of Canada. But just know… it’s not just ice in snow in Canada.

Canada Shock #1. Canadians are Very Friendly, Kind & Helpful

It’s almost an international joke about how friendly Canadians are. This hasn’t changed over the years, and it’s not a show. Canadians really are super friendly, and super helpful, and super nice! Yes, they say “sorry” a lot, but that’s just part of their kindness. If you ever need help while traveling in Canada, whether you need directions or restaurant recommendations, just ask a local. They’re more than willing to help. And they will be glad to share their feelings on Canada and what sights you should see nearby.

Canada Shock #2. The Price You See Isn’t the Final Price You Pay

The price you see listed on a price tag or restaurant menu is never the price you actually pay. With added sales tax and tipping, be prepared for sticker shock on some Canadian prices. Canadian sales tax, varies by province. It can be as low as 5% in Alberta or as high as 15% in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador. You might see several taxes: GST is goods and services tax, HST is Harmonized Sales Tax and PST is Provincial Sales Tax. Quebec has their own as well.

Note: You are also expected to tip in Canada at restaurants, just as you would in the U.S. Tipping starts at 10% to 20% on top of your food bill.

Canada Shock #3. Canada is HUGE!

Canada is one of the largest countries in the world, by size. People planning a Canada vacation often tend to underestimate the distances involved. If you are planning to drive between any of the major Canadian cities, be prepared for several days in the car. From Toronto to Vancouver is 4500 km, while Montreal to Calgary is 3600 km. You might want to fly when traveling between Canadian cities. WestJet and Air Canada are both great airlines for getting around Canada. If you don’t have weeks on end to travel, consider visiting one or two regions of Canada at a time. By focusing on one region or province you cut down significantly on travel time and can really get a feel for that part of Canada.

Canada Shock #4. Canada is GORGEOUS!

You might be shocked at just how beautiful Canada really is. Whether you visit Whistler, or Banff, Vancouver, Prince Edward Island or Niagara Falls, Canada will shock you with its natural beauty. There are dozens of national parks and provincial parks, so make sure you bring hiking boots on your Canada vacation!

Canada Shock #5. Canadians LOVE Hockey. No, Really, They LOVE HOCKEY!

Ok, you know Canada loves hockey, but you might be shocked at how much they really, really, love hockey! Yes, the U.S. is passionate about some sports, too, but Canada takes it to a whole new level with hockey. Hockey isn’t just a sport in Canada, it’s a way of life. Hockey is the de facto ad for every product sold in Canada. There is hockey on TV at all times, whether it’s a game or in a commercial. If you get a chance to go to a hockey game in Canada, go see what it’s all about!

Read: Common Travel Mistakes Rookie Travelers Make

Canada Shock #6. Maple Syrup is Everywhere

Another Canadian stereotype that’s rooted in reality is the abundance of maple syrup. You will be shocked at how many varieties of maple syrup or maple syrup-infused products there are. You won’t mind because it’s delicious. Whether you try a bacon pizza drizzled with maple syrup, maple syrup salmon candy, or maple mints, be sure to save room in your suitcase to bring some maple syrup home with you.

The Don’ts of Vancouver

Canada Shock #7. French is Spoken in Quebec (but not everywhere)

If you are visiting Quebec, you need to know a little bit of French. People in Quebec also speak English, but you’ll have an easier time if you know some French. What may be more shocking is that once you leave Quebec, you won’t hear very much French at all, even though it is one of Canada’s official languages. Though if you are in New Brunswick and parts of Ontario you will still see it used quite a bit. In Vancouver, if you hear someone speaking French, they are probably a tourist from France or from Quebec.

Canada Shock #8. Canada is Very Safe

You might be shocked at how safe you feel when you visit Canada. It’s a huge country, and whether you’re alone on a beach or in a crowded city, you feel pretty safe everywhere in Canada. One of the best things about Canada is the low crime rate. Especially if you travel with your family, this sense of security is a great feeling. Of course, major cities have areas to avoid, but that’s the exception, not the rule, in Canada. Your biggest safety concern in Canada will the wildlife in the National Parks! And whatever you do, DO NOT FEED THE WILDLIFE! That is a big no no and it is a real issue with tourists when they visit Canada.

Read: A Few Things To Know Before You Visit Canada

Canada Shock #9. Tim Horton’s is Your New BFF

Tim Horton will be your new best friend after you visit Canada. Tim Horton’s is a restaurant chain – think Starbucks + Dunkin’ Donuts + Subway all together, but Canadian style. You will be shocked at how many Tim Horton’s there are and is always there when you need it. If your hotel charges for breakfast, skip it and go to Tim Horton’s – there’s sure to be one just around the corner! They are usually clean, friendly, and open long hours.

Canada Shock #10. Canadianisms Are Great!

A lot of the Canadian stereotypes are true, like the maple syrup and hockey addictions. Canadians are very proud of their flag, and you’ll see it emblazoned on everything. Canadian treats like beavertails are incredible and very “Canadian.” Poutine is another Canada icon (but more of a Quebec treat that has spread across the country), and one of the reasons to come to Canada by itself. If you haven’t had French fries with cheese curds and gravy on top, get yourself to a poutine shop right away! Canada also has ketchup chips and milk in a bag (mostly in Eastern Canada), among other unique food items. And, yes, you’ll hear “sorry” and “eh” quite a bit, too!

As you can see, Canada is an amazing country – from cultural cities to stunning natural beauty. If you enjoyed this travel advice, check out some of our other travel tips: