Canada – Wolters World

The DON’Ts of Canadian Train Travel

Posted on September 9, 2023August 30, 2023 by Mark Wolters

What NOT to Do When Taking the Train in Canada

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when using Canadian trains. Whether you are visiting the larger cities of Canada or taking the train across Canada, there are a few things you should know!

Don’t Forget to Pre-Purchase Your Tickets

If you’re traveling on the weekend or in the summer, make sure you buy your train tickets ahead of time because they can sell out! Local trains can sell out a few weeks in advance, while cross-country trains sell out months in advance. You will also get a better price by purchasing your ticket in advance.

Pay attention to the different ticket classes on the trains; there are some pretty big differences, so choose wisely! Once you board the train, don’t put your ticket away. The train conductors will come by periodically to check your ticket, so keep it handy!

Don’t Expect to Save Money

You might think taking the train will save money over taking a plane. In some cases, that might be true, but not always! Canadian train tickets can add up quickly, depending on the route and class of car that you choose. My ticket for the Toronto to Montreal train was $300 for business class, while a flight was $150. Sometimes you choose the train for the experience, not to save money!

Don’t Expect a Short Trip

There are no short train rides in Canada! It’s a huge country! The Toronto to Montreal train is over five hours long if that gives you an idea. If you want to take the train across Canada from Toronto to Vancouver by train, it takes at least four days. (Most travelers opt for a longer ride with more sightseeing opportunities.)

Ten Things That Will Shock You When Visiting Canada

Don’t Forget to Pack Snacks

Because you will be on the train for a while, make sure you have some snacks and beverages to get you through the trip. The food served on the train is decent, but it’s always good to have snacks for those in between meal times, especially if you’re traveling with kids. Most of the train stations will have kiosks or shops where you can pick up a few things before boarding. Just don’t bring smelly snacks…nobody appreciates that!

For the meals served on the train, you can pre-select your meals so you know ahead of time what you are getting.

Don’t Expect Outstanding Views the Entire Trip

Canada is a lot like the United States, and some parts are more photogenic than others. You might travel through forested areas where the trees block out the view, or on an overnight train, you might miss some of the scenery once the sun goes down. So, it’s good to have a book or something to occupy your time between those amazing Canadian vistas.

Even when you do have excellent views, don’t expect to have amazing photos. You’re moving, so it can be hard to focus. The windows also might be smudged or dirty on the outside, and often, cameras will focus on something on the window rather than the scenery in the distance. Sometimes, it’s best to just enjoy the scenery and buy a postcard for your memories.

If your train has a panoramic car, make sure you check it out! They have clear tops so you get a panoramic view. The view car may not be accessible for all ticket classes, so if you’re taking the train for the views, make sure you purchase the best ticket option!

Don’t Expect Cell Service Everywhere

In some parts of Canada, your cell service may be spotty. The trains have WiFi, but it’s not always working or very fast. I supposedly had WiFi on the Toronto to Montreal train, but it took about four minutes just to load a web page. So don’t expect to be streaming Netflix and Hulu throughout your trip. If you’re traveling with kids, make sure you pre-download games or movies to their tablets; don’t rely on WiFi!

Don’t Be Shy

Riding the train for several days in a row is a great way to meet other like-minded travelers! The person who brings a deck of cards or a card game like Uno is always a big hit, and it’s perfect for meeting your fellow passengers.

Likewise, don’t be afraid to ask the ViaRail Canada staff for help. They are super friendly and they are there to help!

Don’t Overpack

Some trains have a limit on what you can bring aboard, especially if you have reserved a regular seat rather than a sleeper car. Make sure you read the rules for your specific ride and don’t bring more than is allowed. You might be able to check a bag, but your access to it may be limited.

Don’t Forget to Pack Layers

Much like airplanes, the temperature can vary wildly, and you might need to add or remove layers throughout your journey. More often than not, the air-conditioning is turned up high, so I always appreciate having an extra coat or blanket, and they can double as a pillow if needed!

Don’t Expect One Train for the Whole Journey

If you are traveling across Canada by train, you will have to change trains at least once. If you are traveling from Halifax to Vancouver, you will be on at least three different trains. (This is another reason to pack light because you will be getting on and off throughout your trip.)

Don’t Forget Your Train Manners

When spending several days on a train, it may start to feel like home. Or at least a hotel room. But don’t let that be a reason to forget your manners.

Keep your shoes on when walking around
Don’t put your feet and shoes on the seats
Don’t be loud
Don’t listen to music or movies without headphones

What NOT to Do in Canada

Don’t Forget to Hold On!

Some of the tracks in Canada are very bumpy, and there are signs reminding you to always have three points of contact. Have two feet on the ground and a hand holding on somewhere when you are up and about on the train. The trains in Canada are more similar to Amtrak than those in Europe, so keep that in mind and temper your expectations!

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Taking the train in Canada is a great way to see the country, and much more relaxing than driving. Taking the train across Canada is a bucket list item for many travelers, but even the shorter journeys are fun to experience. Want more tips for traveling in Canada? Check out some of our other blog posts:

Best Canadian Food To Eat in Canada!

Posted on July 31, 2020July 21, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow foodie travelers! Today, we’re in Canda, talking about food! There are so many cool things to do in Canada, and all that sightseeing will definitely help you work up an appetite. If you want to experience traditional Canadian food, there are some really great Canadian foods that we recommend trying. It’s not just maple syrup; Canada has some really tasty treats!

Poutine

When people think of Canadian cuisine, poutine is often the first thing that comes to mind. If you’re going out for beers with friends, or are looking for a quick appetizer or snack, it doesn’t get any tastier than Canadian poutine. Originally from the Quebec province, you can get poutine all over Canada. What is poutine? It’s a bowl of French Fries with cheese curds, covered in gravy. It sounds weird, but it’s amazing! In most places, you can add other toppings like pulled pork or steak. Poutine is “hands-down” the best snack food in Canada! Be sure to pair it with a local beer.

Tim Horton’s

If you are driving across Canada, you will inevitably stop at a Tim Horton’s along the way. This magnificent chain is unique to Canada. Imagine if you combined a Starbucks, Dunkin, and a Subway, and that’s what Tim Horton’s is. They have great sandwiches and donuts, which is why they are everywhere in Canada!

What NOT to Do in Canada

Seafood

Yes, Canada is a huge country with coasts and plains, but there is some really great seafood in Canada. Seafood is a major ingredient in Canadian cuisine. Along the coasts, you’ll get fresh ocean fish, and in central Canada, rivers and lakes produce really tasty fish as well. No matter where you are in Canada, you will find good seafood or fish. Salmon, halibut, fish-n-chips, PEI mussels, chowder, oysters, and trout are just some of the seafood options you’ll find in Canada.

eat in canada — Eat well! Don’t worry, you will.

Canadian Sweets

Canadians love their sweet treats. When it comes to Canadian sweets, you have to try salmon candy. It sounds weird, but it’s really tasty. It’s smoked salmon bits glazed and candied in maple syrup. On the west coast, they also have what’s called a Nanaimo bar, which is like a seven-layer bar. Another Canadian classic is the Beaver Tail, which is fried dough dusted with cinnamon and sugar. You might also want to compare American brands with Canadian brands. For example, Kit Kats are different in Canada than in the US. It’s fun to do a taste test of the same product between the two countries.

Maple Syrup

This is probably the first thing people think of when it comes to Canadian food. It is everywhere and you’ll find maple flavoring in everything from chewing gum to pizza. Canadian maple syrup also makes a great souvenir to bring home. If you visit Canada in the winter, you have to try maple syrup snow candy, which is made by freezing the syrup on a stick and rolling it in snow.

Ten Things That Will Shock You in Canada

Canadian Snacks

In addition to unique candies, there are some great snacks to try in Canada. You’ll find unique items like ketchup chips in a bag. There are some really great smoked meats in Canada, too. Back bacon is a good one too. Also known as Canadian bacon, it’s a tasty snack or breakfast item.

Caesar Cocktail

Canadians love their cocktails. Canadian beer is really popular, but if you don’t like beer, you’ll find plenty of mixed drinks to enjoy. A Caesar Cocktail in Canada is their version of a Bloody Mary with clam juice. Like a Bloody Mary, a Caesar Cocktail is often enjoyed the morning after a big night out.

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Canada has some really fun and tasty food and trying new food is always a part of our family travels. While travel in Canada can be expensive, some of the best Canadian food is cheap street food and snacks. You can eat really well in Canada, without breaking the bank. Looking for more tips on travel in Canada? Check out some of these other blog posts!

What to See & Do on Prince Edward Island

Posted on June 13, 2020June 8, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about Prince Edward Island in Canada. It’s a great place for a family vacation in the summertime! This Canadian province is one of three maritime provinces, along with New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Although PEI is Canada’s smallest province, there are still plenty of things to do in PEI. These are some of our recommendations for your Prince Edward Island vacation.

Visit Green Gables

The primary reason we decided to visit PEI is that Jocelyn is a big fan of the novel “Anne of Green Gables.” You can visit the home that inspired Lucy Maud Montgomery to write the book. It’s fun to read the book and watch the mini-series ahead of time. This is probably the most popular tourist attraction on the island, so nearby you’ll see a lot of touristy things, like mini-golf and carnival rides. Avonlea Village is another attraction inspired by the novel, where you can stroll through shops and cafes in an old-time setting.

prince edward island vacation — PEI is our favorite region in Canada. It is gorgeous.

Beaches of Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island has some excellent beaches, including Cavendish Beach, which is close to Green Gables. PEI National Park runs along the north part of the island and has several fun beaches to explore. Basin Head Beach was named the best beach in Canada, so that’s another must-see beach on PEI. Surprisingly, the water isn’t as cold as you think it would be!

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown

Charlottetown is the capital city of Prince Edward Island. It’s also the largest city on the island with a population of almost 40,000. There’s actually a lot of interesting history here, which is best experienced on a walking tour. There are also boat tours on the harbor and horse-drawn carriage rides. Don’t miss the ice cream at Cow’s, near the harbor!

hidden mice statues on PEI — Lots of fun to be had in PEI.

Brackley Drive-In

If you’re looking for things to do in PEI at night, there’s a drive-in movie theater in Brackley Beach. It’s not specifically a family-friendly theater, so you do want to double-check what is showing before you promise your kids a night at the movies.

Driving Tour of the Island

The best thing to do in Prince Edward Island is just to explore by car at your own pace. There are loads of small lanes to explore, with hidden beaches and beach towns. It’s a pretty small island, so there’s really no way to get lost. And you can drive the entire island in a day easily, depending on how often you stop. Charlottetown is relatively central, so it makes a great base for your PEI vacation.

Top Ten Road Trip Essentials

What to Eat on Prince Edward Island?

Of course, seafood is fantastic on PEI. We had excellent mussels and lobster, plus lots of amazing desserts. There’s some pretty good local beer in PEI, but we all loved the raspberry cordial drink from Green Gables.

When is the Best Time to Visit PEI?

The climate here changes quickly so there’s a fairly short season to visit Prince Edward Island. May through September is the best time to visit PEI. Winter in PEI can be harsh and snowy, and a lot of tourist attractions are only open seasonally. Given that the majority of tourists visit in summer, you do need to book ahead of time before all the PEI hotels are full.

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These are just a few of our favorite memories from our Prince Edward Island vacation. The best part of visiting PEI is the opportunity to relax and unwind while enjoying a slower pace of life. Looking for more Canada travel tips? Check out these other blog posts:

Top 10 Things to Do in Ottawa

Posted on June 10, 2020June 8, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about Ottawa, Canada. It’s the capital city of Canada, and with a population of just under one million residents, it’s really a great city to visit. We think you will be pleasantly surprised at all the things to see when you visit Ottawa. These are our top ten things to do in Ottawa, Canada.

Byward Market

One of our favorite places to go in Ottawa is the Byward Market. There’s the traditional market where you can get fresh fruits and vegetables, but there’s also some excellent restaurants and bars in the area, and it’s a great place to shop. It’s not just about the market, it’s just a fun area to walk around and explore. It’s also a great place to find cheap eats, which can be challenging elsewhere in Ottawa.

What to do in Ottawa — Lots of fun things to do in Ottawa

Visit Parliament Hill

When you’re in the capital city, you may as well visit the home of Canada’s Parliament. Parliament Hill overlooks the Ottawa River and is in a beautiful Gothic building. They offer free guided tours of the House of Commons and the Senate, although you do need to reserve tickets ahead of time online.

Canadian Museum of History

One of the best Ottawa museums is the Canadian Museum of History, formerly known as the Canadian Museum of Civilization. It’s a great place to learn about the human history of Canada. In addition to compelling exhibitions that include a Children’s Museum and the First People’s Hall, the architecture and the riverside location also make this a worthy stop when you visit Ottawa.

What to Know Before You Go to Canada

National Gallery of Canada

If you prefer art museums, then check out the National Gallery of Canada. It’s one of the largest art museums in North America and houses the largest collection of Canadian art in the world. Canadian art isn’t quite world-famous, so it’s actually really cool to see some lesser-known artists. From Impressionist to Indigenous art, you can easily spend half a day browsing the collection. There’s also a cafeteria, a tapas bar, and a coffee shop as well as a really nice gift shop if you need a souvenir to bring home.

Gatineau Park

On the Quebec side of the river, Gatineau Park is a great place to escape the hustle and traffic of the city. It’s a huge park just outside of the city and has a ton of fun activities to offer. There are hiking, biking, and walking trails. Lakes and waterfalls throughout the park and in the winter, there are ski trails through the woods. You can even take the bus to the park if you don’t want to drive. This is where you’ll find most of the locals on any nice summer weekend in Ottawa.

Canadian War Museum

You don’t actually hear much about Canada’s role in the major wars, but they actually played a really big part in many of the wars of our history, including WWI and WWII. The Canadian War Museum has a great collection of artillery and equipment, but also has a nice representation of the history and the people behind the stories, including the families back home during the wars. There’s also an impressive War Memorial near the Rideau Canal.

Rideau Canal

The Rideau Canal runs from the Ottawa River through the city, and it’s another great place for urban recreation. There’s a pathway that follows the canal through the city, and you can rent bikes at a few places to ride along the canal. You can also see the locks in action. In winter, the canal freezes over, and locals frequently skate on the frozen canal. There’s a ton of beautiful architecture and scenery along the canal, so make sure you save time for a stroll.

Experience Ottawa Multiculturalism

Aside from experiencing Canadian culture in Ottawa, you can explore several different neighborhoods of different ethnicities. Ottawa has a great Chinatown and a Little Italy neighborhood, where you can experience the multiculturalism that Canada is known for. Rather than a melting pot of cultures, Canada celebrates and embraces different cultures, and encourages their uniqueness.

Five Things You Will Love & Hate About Canada

Eat a Beaver Tail

If you’re in Prague, you eat a Trdelnik. If you’re in Italy, you have a gelato. In Canada, you eat Beaver Tail. Don’t worry, it’s not actually any part of the beaver! It’s a sweet treat you can buy at street stands almost anywhere in Canada. It’s like the Canadian version of an elephant ear.

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These are just our ten favorite Ottawa experiences. There are many more things to see in Ottawa, including the Museum of Nature, which is perfect for kids. At only two hours from Montreal, Ottawa makes the perfect weekend trip for those looking to experience the capital of Canada. Looking for more Canada travel tips? Check out these other blog posts:

What Not to Do On Your Canada Vacation

Posted on January 28, 2020January 26, 2020 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit Canada. While many travel blogs will tell you the best things to do in Canada, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do during your Canada vacation!

Don’t Compare Canada to the United States

Yes, the US and Canada are similar in many ways, our love of Kraft and great comedians for example. However, don’t call Canada the 51st state, or say Canadians and Americans are the same. This won’t make you any friends in Canada, as they are proud of their individual culture and heritage. And you will definitely find quite a few differences (and similarities) while you are there.

Ten Ways the USA and Canada are Similar

Don’t Use a Canadian Accent

People (Americans) love to mimic the Canadian accent (eh, buddy, what are you talking aboot, etc.), but don’t do it. It’s rude and the Canadians won’t appreciate it any more than you would appreciate having someone mock your accent. Unless you are traveling to remote regions and very small towns, that stereotypical Canadian accent isn’t really something you’re going to hear as much as you would think if your Canada travel preparations are just watching Strange Brew.

Don’t Line Jump

Canadians are pretty polite overall, and that means they respect the line and don’t skip ahead of others. Line jumpers are not appreciated in Canada and it’s considered rude, so make sure you are following the locals and waiting your turn.

canada vacation information — Canada isn’t cooky, it’s cool!!! and cooky 🙂

Don’t Rush on Public Transportation

Along with that Canadian politeness, it’s also considered rude to rush on to the train or bus as soon as it arrives. This isn’t other countries where there is a lack of space; you can let all of the passengers off before you board the bus. Canadians are quite civilized, so there’s no need to rush the people who are trying to exit.

Don’t Expect to Hear Much French Outside of Quebec

Although French is an official language of Canada, it’s not widely spoken outside of Quebec and the nearby provinces. French is more common in the eastern areas of Canada, but you aren’t likely to hear any French if you are in Vancouver or in the western provinces. New Brunswick and Ontario will give you some French practice too if you are looking to brush up.

Differences between Canadian French and French in France

Don’t Forget Your Basic Travel Safety Rules

Canada as a whole is a pretty safe travel destination. But there are basic travel safety precautions you should use anywhere you travel, even in Canada. The larger cities of Canada have some undesirable neighborhoods that you should try to avoid. Ask your hotel if there are any places you should not go.

canada travel — The Nordiques should still be in the NHL, just saying

Don’t Feed the Animals

Canada has a lot of amazing parks and wildlife, which is a big reason people visit Canada. You are bound to see a lot of cool animals in Canada, and you may even see other tourists feeding them. But don’t even be tempted. It’s a good way to get hurt yourself, and it’s not good for wild animals to become accustomed to humans and human food.

Don’t Forget to Take Advantage of Gas Stations

Canada is also known for wide-open spaces, and if you are driving through Canada, you should plan to take advantage of the gas stations and rest stops when you see them. I always fill up when I can because you just never know when the next gas station will be. And sometimes there is a Tim Horton’s at that rest area/gas station.

food in canada — Tim Horton’s and Poutine should do you few a few meals

Don’t Miss Out on Tim Horton’s

Tim Horton’s is a Canadian legend. It’s a fast food place/coffee shop/donut shop/Canada, but so much more and is one of the best places to visit in Canada. They are often found along the highway, making a perfect place for a rest stop. They have sandwiches, coffee, and donuts that are all really tasty. Don’t forget to grab some Tim-Bits for the road! And if you are not road tripping through Canada do not worry. Tim Horton’s can be found in towns and cities as well. Though many locals will tell you to visit local coffee shops instead.

Don’t Eat at International Chains in Canada

Sure, you can get Pizza Hut and Subway in Canada, but Canada has its own chains (like Tim Horton’s) to check out, plus all the great mom and pop restaurants. Some of the other chains we like are Swiss Chalet and Harvey’s, and of course, Tim Horton’s. Canada has a really diverse mix of immigrants, so the food is great everywhere you go. Make sure you try poutine at least once, and beaver tails are a sweet treat the whole family will love.

Don’t Forget to Tip Your Waiter

When you eat at a sit-down restaurant in Canada, it is customary to tip them 15-20%. You don’t need to tip at a fast food place, but if you have a server taking your order and bringing your food, you should expect to tip them. And you know they will be nice anyway as they are Canadians after all.

Don’t Expect to Pay the Sticker Price

Canada charges a sales tax, and it varies by province and city. Just like in the US, there’s a provincial tax, a goods and service tax, and so on. So, if the item you are purchasing has a tag for $10, you will end up paying $11.50 or $12.00, depending on where you are in Canada. The tax added on to your purchases will be different by province so do take care.

Don’t Miss the National Parks in Canada

Not only does Canada have diverse cultures, but the landscape as you travel across Canada is amazing and diverse. Wherever you are staying, if you see that there’s a National Park or a Provincial Park nearby, don’t miss it! Experiencing nature and wildlife is one of the best things to do in Canada. Canadian cities are fantastic, but the real beauty lies in the natural areas of Canada.

Don’t Freak Out About the Prices

If you watch HGTV, you know that prices in Canada are insane. However, this mostly applies to real estate. Traveling to Canada isn’t necessarily expensive. It’s not a budget destination, but I find the prices in Canada to be comparable to the US or Western Europe.

Don’t Throw Away Canadian Coins

In Canada, the coins go up to two dollars, so they are more valuable than American coins. You can actually buy something with your Loonies and Toonies in Canada, so pay attention to what coins you have before tossing them out or giving them away.

Don’t Forget Your Manners

This really applies anytime you are traveling or at home, but Canadians are known for being polite. You’ll hear “sorry” more times than you can count and you’ll find yourself saying it a lot more after a few days in Canada.

Don’t Think Canada is All Ice and Snow

Many people tend to think of Canada as the Great White North, covered in ice and snow. Yes, some areas are cold and icy, especially in the winter. However, we spent a summer exploring Canada and we had great weather that was warm and sunny. We even spent a few days at the beach!

We love to visit Canada and find it to be an excellent family travel destination. When you do visit, don’t forget to chat with the locals! I hope this helps you known some of the things to avoid doing when you visit Canada. Looking for more of our Canada vacation tips? Check out these blog posts!

Five Things You Will Love & Hate on a Prince Edward Island Vacation

Posted on December 12, 2019November 30, 2019 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Prince Edward Island, Canada! With cool history and awesome beaches, PEI is really a great place to visit. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate on your Prince Edward Island vacation.

Hate #1: Getting to Prince Edward Island

It used to be that you could only get to PEI by ferry. While you can still take a ferry to Prince Edward Island, there’s now the Confederation Bridge connecting the island to the mainland. It’s a very long bridge, about ten miles long, so if you are leery of long bridges, or bridges with low sides, it can be a bit nerve-wracking. There are even some stoplights on the bridge, so you will be on it for a while. Fortunately, the views are amazing, especially if you are crossing the bridge at sunset. However, if you are squeamish about long bridges, I recommend taking the ferry to Prince Edward Island.

Love #1: PEI Nature and Beaches

Prince Edward Island is an outdoor paradise, with several beautiful beaches to explore. Cavendish Beach is one of the most popular things to do in PEI, or you can go out to the East End and see the lighthouse. Basin Head Beach was once voted the best beach in North America. Surprisingly, the water here is a bit warmer than some of the East Coast beaches that are further south, so in the summer, you can get a true beach experience.

Prince edward island coast — The red from the beach isn’t coming out of any white clothing, just fyi

Hate #2: PEI in the Off-Season

The best (and some say only) time to visit Prince Edward Island is from May through September. PEI is absolutely beautiful in the summer. However, winter lasts a really long time in this part of Canada. They don’t measure the snow in inches; it’s measured in feet. By February, the locals are getting cabin fever. A lot of tourist places close up for the winter, so it’s not the best time to visit Prince Edward Island.

Love #2: Prices on Prince Edward Island

A Prince Edward Island vacation is actually pretty affordable, especially compared to other destinations in Canada. Most Americans visit Canadian cities, like Toronto or Vancouver, which tend to be on the pricier side. While Canada is generally a bit more expensive than the US, Prince Edward Island is very reasonable. The hotels, food, and attractions are all fairly priced. If you are planning a Canada road trip, plan to end it on Prince Edward Island and you’ll love having lower prices at the end of your trip.

What to Know Before You Visit Canada

Green gables in prince edward island — Yes, Anne does come out and chat. It’s pretty fun.

Hate #3: Summer Crowds

PEI is gorgeous, and attractions like the Green Gables house bring a lot of tourists to visit. Since we know the best time to visit Prince Edward Island is in the summer, the majority of tourists are all visiting in the same short window. This means you need to plan ahead when reserving your PEI accommodation, as there aren’t a ton of hotels and cottages to rent, so they can book up quickly.

Love #3: Prince Edward Island History

There is so much history to take in on Prince Edward Island. Some of it is fictional history, like at Green Gables. But this is actually where Canada was founded, and PEI recently celebrated 150 years anniversary. In Charlottetown, you can see the historical government buildings like the Province House, and there are interpreters who give historic tours as well.

Hate #4: Green Gables Attractions

One of the most popular things to do in PEI is to visit the Green Gables house. The house itself is pretty small, but it seems an entire tourist industry has built up around the house, making it feel a bit over-commercialized. The house itself is worth visiting, but the hype around it gets old after a bit. There are so many interesting historic attractions on Prince Edward Island but they tend to get overshadowed by some of the tourist traps.

eating ice cream in prince edward island — Eat the ice-cream where you see the cow… trust them

Love #4: Eating and Drinking in PEI

Yes, you will eat lobster when you visit Prince Edward Island. It’s fantastic and much better than the lobster you can get at home, even when it’s out of season. All of the seafood in PEI is fantastic. Make sure you get out into some of the smaller villages and eat at the mom and pop places, which are more authentic and less expensive. Something you must try when you visit PEI is the Raspberry Cordial. It’s part of the Green Gables lore, but it’s actually really tasty. There are some pretty good local beers in PEI, too!

Hate #5: Driving on Prince Edward Island

Driving on the island can be a bit frustrating, especially when you first arrive and are finding your way around. A lot of drivers on the island are from New Brunswick, and they are typically aggressive East Coast drivers. There are also a lot of cyclists and pedestrians, so you really have to pay attention when you are driving on Prince Edward Island.

Love #5: PEI Locals

Canadians, in general, are a friendly bunch and the locals on Prince Edward Island are no exception. We’ve had great conversations with locals, including bartenders and the folks at our hotel. Everyone has been very nice and forthcoming with travel tips. You might think a small island that gets overwhelmed with tourists for a short window each summer might be annoying for the residents, but if they are annoyed by tourists, they certainly don’t let on.

Ten Things That Will Shock You in Canada

We really enjoyed our Prince Edward Island vacation, it’s really a neat place to visit in Canada. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to plan a Prince Edward Island vacation. Want more tips for planning a Canada trip? Check out these other blog posts:

Ten Ways the USA and Canada are Similar

Five Things You Will Love & Hate on Your Toronto Vacation

Posted on December 11, 2019November 30, 2019 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Toronto, Canada, an awesome city with so many amazing things to do and sights to check out! As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate on your Toronto vacation.

Hate #1: Driving & Parking in Toronto

Toronto is the largest city in Canada, with over six million people living in the metropolitan area That’s a lot of traffic! As with any big city, expect to fight traffic, especially if you are trying to drive at rush hour. Once you get downtown, it can be nearly impossible to find parking and once you do find parking, it’s super expensive. Fortunately, Toronto has a good metro system, so you can park your car at your hotel and just use public transportation to get around during your Toronto vacation. Also, have a heads up when you are driving downtown as we have seen more than our fair share of fender benders just walking around downtown Toronto.

you feel the prices are about as high as the CN Tower

Love #1: Culture & Entertainment

As a huge city, there are a ton of interesting things to do in Toronto. The nightlife and restaurants are fantastic. They have amazing museums, including the Royal Ontario Museum. There’s also the Art Gallery of Ontario and they even have a shoe museum in Toronto. The Stanley Cup lives at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. No matter your travel style, you’ll never run out of things to do in Toronto. And that is not even getting into the markets and shopping.

Hate #2: Prices in Toronto

As with many large cities, Toronto is expensive. Toronto hotels, parking, and restaurants are on the pricier side, but since it’s such a large city, there are plenty of options to choose from. If you want to, you can find deals in Toronto, especially on food. Check out Chinatown, Little Italy and the St. Lawrence Market where you can get tasty food without spending a fortune.

14 Tips for Saving Money While Traveling

Stanley Cup — Lord Stanley in the house!

Love #2: Toronto Outdoor Activities

Although it’s a huge city, Toronto has a lot of green space and outdoor activities. Take a ferry over to Center Island, which is car-free, so you can rent bikes and explore the island. Niagara Falls is an easy day trip from Toronto, and Lake Ontario is right here, so there are lots of activities on the lake. In the summer, everyone loves to be outside, so you’ll also have outdoor cafes, outdoor markets and tons of fun street festivals.

Hate #3: Construction & Delays

It seems like there is always construction in Toronto. Between buildings and roads, it can feel like one big construction site. This makes driving and parking even more frustrating than normal because it can disrupt the traffic flow, cause traffic delays and result in fewer parking spots available. Even public transportation can be affected by construction delays, so give yourself a bit of extra time to get around during your Toronto vacation.

Love #3: Toronto Neighborhoods

One of the best things to do in Toronto is just wandering the various districts. There are so many interesting and unique districts in Toronto, from the financial district to Chinatown. There’s even a district underground where you can use tunnels to get around the city when it’s cold outside. There’s the waterfront area and islands to explore as well. Make sure you get out and explore some of the neighboring districts to get a feel for the “real” Toronto.

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Hate #4: Not as Walkable as You’d Expect

Most people don’t associate Canada with huge cities, so it’s kind of a shock how large Toronto really is. Even when you look at a map of Toronto, it seems like it would be pretty walkable, but it’s not. Toronto is actually huge, and it takes a lot longer to get from one place to another if you are walking. Fortunately, the streetcars and the subway are convenient and easy to use, so you don’t have to walk everywhere.

hockey hall of fame — CN Tower and Hockey hall of fame, what more do you need?

Love #4: Toronto Small Businesses

As you explore the various districts of Toronto, you’ll see that there are a lot of independent businesses to check out. You don’t have to just frequent the chains, as there are small boutiques, pubs, and restaurants that independently owned, which is always our preference when traveling. And the local business owners seem to appreciate the business a bit more than some of the chain stores.

Hate #5: Summertime Crowds in Toronto

As one of the largest cities in North America, Toronto is crowded! It’s the financial center of Canada, and there are tons of people who work downtown and live in the metropolitan area. Then you add all of the tourists who visit Toronto in the summer, and it can be really crowded. There are lines to get into Toronto attractions, lines for the ferries and of course, this also leads to traffic and parking problems. If you plan to visit Toronto in the summer, make sure you are planning ahead and booking your hotel, rental car, and excursions in advance.

Love #5: Toronto City Vibe

The overall vibe in Toronto is just cool. The architecture is interesting (hello CN Tower), the attractions are great for tourists, and the history is pretty cool, too. There’s a great mix of sports, entertainment, and art that make Toronto such a neat place. The people are what really give Toronto a good vibe. Canadians are great, so it’s fun to visit such a large city where people are so friendly.

There are so many fun things to do in Toronto. It’s one of our favorite cities in North America. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to plan a trip to Toronto. Want more tips for planning a Canada vacation? Check out these other blog posts:

Five Things You Will Love & Hate on Your Montreal Vacation

Posted on December 8, 2019November 30, 2019 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Montreal, Quebec, an awesome multicultural city with so many cool and eclectic things to check out! As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate on your Montreal vacation.

Hate #1: Montreal at Night

Downtown Montreal can get a bit seedy at night. Once the sun goes down, you’ll notice that the tourists tend to thin out and the atmosphere changes a bit. It’s not so much the strip clubs, which there are some, but more about the people in the streets. While it’s a great family destination, we keep our Montreal sightseeing limited to the daytime hours when we have our kids with us.

Love #1: Multicultural Montreal

I feel like this is one of the most multicultural cities in North America. Since Montreal is in the Quebec province, French is the official language, and of course, English is also spoken in Montreal. There are also tons of other cultures mixed into Montreal as well, such as Brazilian, Italian, Chinese, and more. There are distinct neighborhoods, like Little Italy and Chinatown, where you can go and experience a totally unique culture that is not typically Canadian. While you need to know a bit of French in Quebec City, it’s not necessary for Montreal, because it’s truly an international city.

montreal tourism — Montreal is more than just the Canadiens

Hate #2: Unsavory Sorts

Part of what contributes to the seedy atmosphere we mentioned already is that Montreal is seen as a bit of a party destination, so you get a lot of drunks in the streets at night. There’s also a growing homeless population in Montreal, and you tend to see quite a few homeless people in all parts of town, including the tourist areas. They generally won’t bother you and they aren’t particularly aggressive, but if that makes you feel uncomfortable we wanted to let you know.

Love #2: Cosmopolitan City

Montreal is very modern and cosmopolitan. There are beautiful skyscrapers and excellent museums. The 1976 Summer Olympic Games were held in Montreal, so Montreal attractions include Olympic Stadium, plus the Biodome, the Insectarium, and a great Botanical Garden. Most travelers to Montreal expect an “old world” style city like Quebec City, but Montreal is very cosmopolitan.

Hate #3: Pot Smoke

This is totally a personal preference, but when visiting Montreal with kids, we’ve noticed a LOT of pot being smoked around the city. It’s not legal to smoke marijuana for recreation in Montreal, but medicinal marijuana is legal and it seems that many people take advantage of that. Even our seven-year-old noticed a funny smell in the air.

kids in montreal — Liam loved it in Montreal, though he did note a slight smell of wacky tabaccy

Love #3: Montreal History

While Montreal is cosmopolitan, there is an Old Town section, and the history of it is fascinating. One of the coolest places to visit in Montreal is the Basilica of Notre Dame, which is quite beautiful with stained glass and ornate decorations. Old Montreal is full of interesting 18th-century and early 19th-century architecture. The narrow, cobblestone streets really make you feel like you are in a European city.

Hate #4: Prices in Montreal

Montreal is expensive! Most of Canada seems to be slightly more expensive than the average prices in the United States, and Montreal is no exception. Vancouver, Montreal, and Toronto are probably the three most expensive destinations in Canada because they are the three largest cities. Montreal hotels and restaurants tend toward the pricier side, so plan ahead and be sure to factor in higher prices when you budget for your Montreal vacation.

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mark in montreal — yeah… maybe i shouldn’t take screen caps as my pictures 🙂

Love #4: Food in Montreal

It’s not just the French language that came to Montreal, but French cuisine as well. Being a multicultural city, you can get a lot of different cuisines in Montreal; not just French-Canadian food. Yes, it’s expensive to dine out in Montreal, but the quality of the food is really good. Montreal is definitely becoming a foodie city lately, and we can see why. Make sure you get out and enjoy some of the amazing food in Montreal during your stay!

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Hate #5: Business Hours

Although Montreal has great nightlife, the streets do tend to roll up early in Montreal. Most stores and shopping malls close fairly early, so if you plan to do some shopping after dinner, you may find that nothing is open!

Love #5: Montreal Nightlife & Festivals

Montreal has the best nightlife in Canada. It’s not just the fantastic nightclubs and pubs, they also have fantastic evening entertainment. Whether you prefer opera, ballet, theater or live music, you’ll find it in Montreal. They have great festivals, too, including comedy and jazz festivals. There’s even a fireworks festival in the summer. People visit Montreal from all over the world to experience the nightlife.

There are so many fun things to do in Montreal, I didn’t even touch on the outdoor activities or the day trips from Montreal! It’s one of our favorite cities in Canada. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to plan a trip to Montreal. Want more tips for planning a Canada vacation? Check out these other blog posts:

Five Things You Will Love & Hate on Your Canada Vacation

Posted on December 6, 2019November 29, 2019 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Canada, our neighbor to the north! We spent a month driving around Canada, and it’s truly a beautiful country with so many places to visit in Canada. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate on your Canada vacation.

Hate #1: Vast Size & Remote Areas

This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but if you want to see “all” of Canada, there is a lot of ground to cover, and there are some very remote areas in Canada. It’s nine hours just to get from Prince Edward Island to Quebec, and those are both in Eastern Canada! You can spend a lot of time driving between Canada tourist attractions. Cell coverage is also spotty in those remote areas, so you always want to be sure to fill your gas tank before heading into an open stretch of road. Fortunately, the roads are good and snowplows come quickly in the winter.

Traveling from Vancouver to Seattle on the Amtrak Cascades Train

Love #1: Natural Beauty of Canada

Canada is one of the most beautiful countries we’ve ever visited. From the mountains and coastline of British Columbia to the Canadian Rockies with ski towns like Banff and Lake Louise, Niagara Falls and the rugged beauty of Canada’s East Coast, there is really something for everyone in Canada. You can even take a polar bear safari in Churchill. Canadian cities are great but make sure you leave some time to explore the natural beauty of Canada.

Hate #2: Sales Tax & Tipping

If you are visiting Canada from Europe, you will be surprised that the price you see on the menu or price tag isn’t the price you end up paying for goods and services. Just like in the United States, Canada adds a sales tax on top of the price, which is only added at the cash register. There’s a federal sales tax, a provincial sales tax, and often a city tax. This can add anywhere from 5 to 20% on top of the original sales price. When dining out in Canada, plan to tip between 15 and 20% on top of your bill.

Love #2: Canadian People

It’s not just a stereotype! Canadian people are so friendly and helpful, you can’t help but love Canada because of it. Everyone we encountered during our travels has been super friendly and helpful, ready to give us tips on what to see in Canada and what to skip. It’s not just a superficial nice, either, it’s very genuine. Canadians are truly warm and caring, and they love to share their hometown with travelers.

Hate #3: Canadian Pedestrians

Wherever you go in Canada, pedestrians have the right-of-way, so they are a little more empowered than what you may be used to in other countries. They will just step right out into the crosswalk, so if you are driving, you really have to watch out for pedestrians.

canada tourism — yeah, Canada is that gorgeous

Love #3: Canadian Multiculturalism

Where the United States is a melting pot of cultures that end up integrating into one, Canada has several unique cultures that remain individualized. The French culture is the obvious one, as French is the official language of Quebec, and many Canadians speak French and English. Canada really seems to celebrate the diversity of cultures, rather than attempt to consolidate them. Several Canadian cities have vibrant Chinatown districts, and Vancouver really feels like an international city.

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Hate #4: Prices in Canada

Canada is not cheap. It’s not super expensive, and of course, prices will vary as you travel to different cities and regions, but it’s not really a budget destination. Vancouver, Montreal, and Toronto are the most expensive areas of Canada, but in general, prices are comparable or a bit higher than in the United States.

Love #4: Diverse Canada Attractions

There really is something for everyone in Canada! We’ve already mentioned the natural beauty, and with that comes hiking, biking, skiing, boating, kayaking and pretty much any outdoor sport you can think of. If you prefer spectator sports, hockey is the second religion in Canada, so go check out a hockey game. Canadian cities have amazing architecture and the multicultural aspect means you can sample a ton of interesting cuisines in Canada.

Hate #5: Canada Winters

Most people either love or hate winter, and if you visit Canada in the winter, then you probably have some idea of what you are in for. Canada can get crazy cold in the winter, and they get a TON of snow in most areas. Obviously, the further north you go, the colder it will be. If you are just a casual tourist and not interested in winter sports like skiing or ice skating, then the best time to visit Canada is during the spring, summer, or fall.

Love #5: Canadian Poutine

The official food of Canada is poutine. You take an order of French Fries, then add cheese curds and gravy. This is the basic poutine and of course, people get crazy with adding more toppings like meat. You have to try poutine when you visit Canada. You can get poutine at a fancy restaurant, or from a shack on the street; it’s everywhere in Canada. Some other Canadian specialties include Tim Horton’s and maple syrup.

There are so many fun things to do in Canada. While on the surface, it may seem very similar to the United States, it’s actually quite different and well worth your time to take a trip to Canada. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to plan a trip to Canada. Want more tips for planning a Canada vacation? Check out these other blog posts:

Five Things You Will Love & Hate On a Quebec City Vacation

Posted on December 1, 2019November 29, 2019 by Mark Wolters

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we visit Quebec City, Canada! Quebec is probably the most “European” city in North America, which means we love to visit Quebec when we can. As you know, here at Wolters World, we like to prepare travelers with the good, and the bad, of visiting a new travel destination. So these are the five things you’ll love, and the five things you’ll hate when you visit Quebec, or at least find a bit less than awesome.

Hate #1: Old Town Driving & Parking

The Old Town area of Quebec City is really an amazing place, and there are lots of cool places to stay at and sights to visit, but driving and parking can be a bit challenging. If you choose to stay in the Old Town, you can park your car at your hotel and just walk everywhere. If you choose to stay out of town a bit, when you drive in, try to find parking near the Parliament. We ended up driving in each day and found it easier to park a bit farther out instead of searching for a parking spot for 15 minutes. From there, you can easily walk to the best parts of town. Another note about driving in Quebec: don’t be surprised if most of the road signs are in French, not French and English!

Love #1: Exploring Old Quebec

There are so many entertaining things to do in Quebec City, however just wandering the streets of Quebec’s Old Town is one of our favorite things. There’s the upper part of Old Town, with the citadel and the Parliament where you can watch the changing of the guard. In the lower part of Old Town, you’ll find the narrow cobblestone streets and quaint restaurants. The architecture and the atmosphere is fantastic, it’s just like walking around a European city. Except here you get to have some amazing Poutine to fight off those hunger pains.

Quebec the best of and the maybe not best of — You will love this place

Hate #2: Lack of Convenience Stores & Kiosks

If you’re visiting in the summer and want to grab a soda or a bottle of water as you walk around, there aren’t many places to do so. There are plenty of bars and restaurants you can visit, but to just grab something to drink on the go isn’t as easy as it could be. There are a few vending machines around, so if you get some Canadian change, hang on to it because it might come in handy when you get thirsty! After a couple of days on our Quebec City vacation, we quickly learned to start bringing our own water bottles. You can grab one of our water bottles at http://www.woltersworld.store if you need one for your next trip.

Love #2: European Vibe

We’ve traveled all over North America and I can say without a doubt that Quebec City is the most “European” city we’ve been to outside of Europe. It feels very much like a mid-size French city just up and relocated to Canada. The food, the atmosphere, the architecture, the people and even some of the attitudes are distinctly French!

quebec travel information — Quebec is great for kids

Hate #3: Rude Tourists

From all of our travels in Canada, the tourists in Quebec were the worst that we ran into. From knocking us over or our kids out of the way, to aggressive drivers, we didn’t have the best experience with other tourists in Quebec. The locals are great, but the tourists, not so much. Quebec receives a large number of Canadian, American, and international tourists so maybe everyone is more interested in seeing the beauty of the city than being friendly tourists.

Love #3: Big City Sights with a Small Town Vibe

The variety of Quebec City attractions makes it seem like a big city. There are some great museums, like the Musée National des Beaux-Arts du Québec. Then there is the Old Town area we already mentioned and the attractions surrounding Old Town. But what’s great is that it doesn’t feel like a big city. Quebec is very safe, prices are reasonable and it’s easy to get around. We’re saving money by staying out by the airport and it only took us 15 minutes to reach Old Town.

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Hate #4: French Language in Quebec

If you speak French, you might love this, but if you don’t, you will have some difficulty. You definitely need to know a bit of French to get around more easily in Quebec City. In the touristy parts of town, you’ll get by without speaking French, but when you are driving around, many of the signs are only in French. The locals are bilingual so you do not have to worry that you will not be understood, but learning a few words like merci (thank you in French) will go a long way.

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Love #4: Street Buskers

Quebec City embraces the buskers that perform in their streets. Some cities discourage buskers all together, but Quebec will let you know where to see them and when. There’s always something to see in the streets of Quebec, and everyone joins in the fun. Our kids just enjoyed hanging out and watching buskers while Jocelyn and I enjoyed the architecture and some of the local drinks.

Hate #5: Quebec Locals

Now, the people of Quebec are friendly and helpful, but only if you ask them. If you’ve been traveling around Canada, you may be used to more outgoing Canadians than what you will find in Quebec. This isn’t a slight on the Quebecois, you just usually have to make the effort to start the conversation or ask the question. Then they will be glad to help you, so ask away.

Love #5: Seasons of Quebec

Quebec is a great place to visit any time of year. The summer does not get too hot, and it’s not packed with tourists. It’s nice to be able to walk around in summer without quickly being drenched in sweat, so Quebec was a nice change from other summer destinations. While winter in Quebec may be cold, they go all out to really enjoy and embrace winter with a number of winter activities and festivals.

quebec is great any time of the year — you can enjoy Quebec any time of the year

We loved every minute of our visit to Quebec; it’s really an awesome city and a great way to get a “taste of Europe” without leaving the Continent. The “hates” are really just things to have a heads up on rather than a reason not to plan a Quebec City vacation. Want more tips for planning a Canada vacation? Check out these other blog posts: