Category: Canada

How to Get from Vancouver to Seattle on Amtrak Cascades Train

Posted on by admin

Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re in Vancouver, British Columbia and we are headed to Seattle on the Amtrak train. There are many ways to travel from Vancouver to Seattle, but the train is an easy and inexpensive option. So today, we’re sharing everything you need to know about taking the train from Vancouver to Seattle.

Amtrak Cascades Schedule

You can travel from Vancouver to Seattle twice a day on the Amtrak Cascades route. The early morning train leaves Pacific Central Station in Vancouver at 6:35 and the afternoon train leaves at 5:45. The entire trip takes about four and a half hours to travel from Vancouver to Seattle by train.

Amtrak Cascades Reservations

You should reserve your tickets online at amtrak.com when you are making your travel plans. With only two daily departures, you want to be sure you can get the departure time and seats you want. When you are booking your tickets, make sure you have the passport numbers for everyone in your reservation, as you will need that information to complete your booking.

Amtrak Cascades Departure

You will be instructed to arrive one hour before departure, but that’s a bit much, especially if you are traveling in business class. 45 minutes should allow plenty of time to clear customs and board the train to Seattle. As you wait, you will receive a U.S. customs form to fill out. Hang on to this as you’ll need it later when crossing into the United States. Passengers are then split into two lines at the station: one for business class, and one for economy class. Next, you will go through Canadian customs, show them your paperwork, answer a few questions and then be on your way to boarding the train to Seattle.

Amtrak Cascades Seating

As you wait in line at the station, an Amtrak employee will come through the line, check your tickets and hand out seat assignments. You don’t always get to choose your seats, but if you can, ask to sit on the right side of the train for the best views between Vancouver and Seattle. (If you are traveling from Seattle to Vancouver, try to sit on the left side of the train.) The trains are numbered, so it’s easy to find your car and your seat. When you make your reservation, you can choose from Coach Class, Business Class and First Class.

Amtrak Cascades Amenities

Each train has a cafe car, where you can purchase food and snack items for the journey. It’s not anything exceptional, but our train did have some craft beers available, as well as Ivar’s clam chowder from Seattle. Other items you can buy are standard train fare: hot dogs, sandwiches, chips, candy and soda. They will take American or Canadian currency, but only Canadian bills, not coins. You will get your change in U.S. Dollars. If you’ve got a few Canadian bills leftover from your Vancouver visit, you may as well spend them in the cafe car.

Watch: Five Things You Have to Eat in Seattle

With a four and a half hour trip, you want to be sure to bring something to do on the train. Books, music or podcasts are great, and if you have kids, make sure you have enough to keep them entertained during the trip. Luckily, you can get up and move around and check out the cafe car, so the trip will go pretty quickly. There are electrical outlets at each seat, so you don’t have to worry about draining your electronics along the way.  (Canadian and US plugs are the same, so no worries about having an adapter for your plugs!)

Watch: Train Travel with Children

Amtrak Luggage Rules

When you make your reservation online, you’ll see several symbols on the schedule indicating what you can bring on board. This is important if you are traveling with a bicycle or oversize luggage. More generous than the airlines, each Amtrak passenger is allowed two personal items and two carry-on items. If you have larger luggage, you may be asked to check your bag. Two checked bags are free of charge, while Amtrak will charge $20 for each additional bag. Baggage works just like the airlines; you’ll be given a baggage tag and your bag will be loaded in another car.

U.S. Customs

When the Amtrak Cascades train reaches the U.S. border, border patrol agents will board the train, checking passports and documents, and they will take the customs form that you filled out at the train station. The whole process is pretty fast, and only takes about 20 minutes.

Alternatives to Travel From Vancouver to Seattle

You can take a bus from Vancouver to Seattle, and it’s a bit faster than the train, but it’s not nearly as comfortable. Of course, you can fly from Seattle to Vancouver in less than an hour, but it’s more expensive and restrictive. The train is a great option for families and much less stress than dealing with airports. Driving from Vancouver to Seattle is the fastest option, but it can be a hassle to pick up a rental car in Vancouver and leave it in Seattle.

Amtrak Cascades Arrival

After the four and a half hour journey, you’ll arrive at King Street Station in Seattle. This puts you right in downtown Seattle, between historic Pioneer Square and the International District.

The Vancouver to Seattle train is very comfortable and an affordable way to travel between the two cities. We highly recommend this travel option and hope these tips help you start to plan your train trip from Vancouver to Seattle! For more travel tips and tricks, check out these blog posts and videos:

10 Ways The USA & Canada Are The Same Country!

Posted on by admin

Ten Ways That the U.S. and Canada are the Same

Greetings from Vancouver, British Columbia! Today, we’re talking about the similarities between the U.S. ad Canada. We’ve seen a lot of videos about the differences between the U.S. and Canada, but we thought it would be fun to talk about the differences, because the U.S. and Canada are pretty close.

US and Canada Similarity #1: The Price You See Isn’t the Price You Pay

 

Both the U.S. and Canada add sales tax on top of the prices you see when shopping or eating. In Vancouver, there’s the GST, which is about 5%, while Ontario has the HST, which is 13-15%, and in the U.S. it varies from zero in some states, to as much as 15%. Sales tax will vary by province and territory in Canada, and it will vary by state and city in the U.S. The type of goods purchased can also affect the tax rate.

 

US and Canada Similarity #2: A 15-20% Tip is Expected at Restaurants

 

Once again, the price you see on the menu isn’t the price you will pay. In addition to tax in some areas, you are also expected to tip in both the U.S. and Canada. 15% to 20% is a standard tip for good service in both countries.

 

US and Canada Similarity #3: Excellent Service

 

Because servers rely on tips for their income, both countries have very friendly servers, and the people in general are friendly. It’s very easy to get recommendations from locals, who are eager to share their favorite restaurant, local food, or entertainment options.

 

Read: 10 Things That SHOCK Tourists about Visiting Canada

 

US and Canada Similarity #4: Sports are Huge

 

Both countries love their sports teams. Hockey, football, baseball and basketball are all revered in the U.S. and Canada. Sports bring people together from both countries, and can cause some friendly rivalries, too. Not all sports are equal in both countries, though. Hockey is practically a religion in Canada, after all.

 

US and Canada Similarity #5: Select Regions Would Prefer to Be Independent

 

Both countries have certain regions that would be happy to separate themselves a bit, or entirely, from the rest of the nation. In the U.S. there is Texas, which is pretty unique and often mentioned in the same sentence as “secede.” In Canada, Quebec is very different from the rest of Canada, with a distinct European culture.

US and Canada Similarity #6: Pride and Patriotism is Strong

 

Both Canadians and Americans are super proud of their country, and love to show this off in their clothing choices. Canadians and Americans both love to wear clothes with a flag on them. Whether it’s the Maple Leaf or the Stars and Stripes, it’s often pretty easy to pick out the Canadians and Americans traveling abroad, thanks to their patriotic clothes.

US and Canada Similarity #7: Country Music

 

Both countries love country music. If you take a road trip across Canada, or the United States, especially in the more rural areas, you’ll hear a lot of country music stations on the radio. Country music is pretty unique to the U.S. and Canada, as you won’t hear a lot of it in other countries.

 

US and Canada Similarity #8: Huge Distances Within the Country

 

Both the U.S. and Canada are huge countries, and this often throws tourists for a loop when planning their vacations. Travelers who are used to smaller European countries always want to see the “whole” US on a road trip and really underestimate travel times and distances. Both countries are well over 3,000 miles from coast to coast.

 

Watch: Things Tourists Should NOT Do When They Visit The USA

 

US and Canada Similarity #9: Natural Beauty Abounds

 

Both countries have so much natural beauty, and it’s very diverse from region to region. Of course, we share Niagara Falls, one of the best waterfalls in the world. There’s also the Rocky Mountains, which extend from Canada into the U.S. Both countries have spectacular coastlines, interior badlands, Great Lakes, and miles of prairie land. The National Parks of both countries are amazing, and well worth the trip.

 

US and Canada Similarity #10: Boxed Macaroni & Cheese

 

Although it goes by a different name in each country, that blue and gold box of Kraft Macaroni and Cheese (or Kraft Dinner) is well loved by Americans and Canadians alike. So whether you call it KD or Mac & Cheese we all love that blue box delicacy!

For more travel posts and videos about the U.S. and Canada, check these out:

 

23 Things Tourists Should NOT Do When They Visit Vancouver

Posted on by admin

Don’ts of Vancouver: Vancouver Tips for Travelers

Greetings from Vancouver, British Columbia! For outdoor lovers, Vancouver is a dream destination. There is kayaking, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, whale watching, hiking, biking and so much more! Today, we’re sharing our best Vancouver tips: the “don’ts” of visiting Vancouver.

Vancouver Tip #1 Don’t Think Vancouver is Only Outdoor Attractions

 

The vast majority of things to do in Vancouver are outdoor-related, but there are also some really cool museums in Vancouver. The Museum of Anthropology has an amazing collection of totem poles and relics from First Nations tribes, and from all over the world. We also recommend the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Vancouver Museum, and the Maritime Museum. You can also go to Canada Place to see the Olympic Torch, or go to Gastown and see the steam clock.

 

Vancouver Tip #2 Don’t Skip the Asian Food in Vancouver

 

The Asian cuisine in Vancouver is amazing, and authentic. You can get sushi with black rice, or Chinese food, Thai food, and Indian food. Most of these restaurants are small mom-and-pop places, so in addition to being authentic and tasty, they are also usually pretty affordable.

 

Vancouver Tip #3 Don’t Skip Happy Hour

 

For great food and drink specials, don’t miss happy hour in Vancouver. As a tourist, it’s easy to take advantage of happy hour specials to save some money while visiting Vancouver. It’s also a great way to sample some local beers and foods, like poutine.

Read: What to Know Before You Visit Canada for the First Time

 

Vancouver Tip #4 Don’t Freak Out About Prices

 

Remember, you’re not buying an apartment! Housing prices are very high in Vancouver, but other prices are comparable to other large cities in the U.S. and Europe. It’s not a budget travel destination, but it’s not something that should keep travelers from coming to Vancouver.

 

Vancouver Tip #5 Don’t Be Afraid to Rent an Apartment Instead of a Hotel

 

Hotels in Vancouver can be expensive, with limited availability, but there are tons of other Vancouver accommodation options. With Airbnb, or VRBO, vacation rentals are easy to find, and often more affordable than a hotel. And added bonus of renting a home is getting to experience the neighborhoods of Vancouver.

 

Vancouver Tip #6 Don’t Wear Your Shoes in the House

 

Whether in an apartment rental, or a local Vancouver resident’s home, shoes are not worn indoors in Vancouver. This goes for pretty much all of Canada; it’s custom to remove shoes when entering someone’s home.

Vancouver Tip #7 Don’t Be Cheap When it Comes to Sightseeing

 

If you have a choice, don’t skimp on the cost of excursions. Whether it’s whale watching, a harbor cruise or a seaplane excursion, splurge for the best tour you can afford. The whale watching tours are so great, they guarantee a sighting, or you get to return for free. Excursions in Vancouver aren’t cheap, but they are worth it.

Read: The Differences Between Quebec & France

 

Vancouver Tip #8 Don’t Forget Sunblock and Extra Clothing Layers for Whale Watching

 

It’s not always rainy in Vancouver! If you have a sunny day for whale watching, don’t forget the sunblock. It can also be pretty chilly out on the water, so make sure to bring some layers to stay warm. Some boat tours may provide blankets or coats, but it’s always best to be prepared.

 

Vancouver Tip #9 Don’t Forget a Rain Jacket and/or Umbrella

 

It rains about 170 days per year in Vancouver, so always expect rain. There are some months better than others, but it’s always a good idea to bring a rain jacket. The jacket will also come in handy when temps drop, which also happens in Vancouver.

 

Vancouver Tip #10 Don’t Expect Snow in Vancouver

 

It doesn’t really snow in Vancouver because it’s rarely cold enough. In general, winter in Vancouver just brings rain and clouds. The beauty of Vancouver is that you can take a short drive to the mountains and have all the snow you want, up to four meters in places. But don’t expect to find snow in the city of Vancouver.

 

5 Things You Have to Eat in Vancouver

 

Vancouver Tip #11 Don’t Go to Downtown Eastside

 

There are a few areas that tourists in Vancouver should avoid. The downtown Eastside area is one of them. There’s a large population of homeless people and drug problems in this area. There are also a lot of police, so it might not be dangerous, but there are just many other better areas of Vancouver to explore, like Granville Island, Stanley Park or Gastown.

Read: What Not to Do in Peru

 

Vancouver Tip #12 Don’t Ride a Bike the Wrong Way in Stanley Park

 

Cycling in Stanley Park is one of the best things to do in Vancouver. However, it’s important to follow the direction of traffic and the arrows on the path. Even if it’s not crowded, to avoid any accidents or unpleasant confrontations, it’s best to stick to the rules.

 

Vancouver Tip #13 Don’t Try to the Grouse Grind Hike if You Aren’t Ready for It

 

Just outside of town is Grouse Mountain, and a popular hike is to climb the stairs 850 up to the top. It’s a tough hike, and should only be attempted by travelers in good physical condition. Also, don’t try to descend the stairs. They are up only.

Vancouver Tip #14 Don’t Go to the Capilano Suspension Bridge if You Are Scared of Heights

 

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is another fun Vancouver attraction. It’s a beautiful bridge in the forest, where you can go and walk across it. However, people love to get it swinging and bouncing. So, anyone who is afraid of heights should not attempt to cross the bridge.

 

Vancouver Tip #15 Don’t Expect a Lot of Cool Architecture in Vancouver

 

The architecture in Vancouver is pretty bland, so it’s not something tourists generally try to enjoy or photograph, as they would in other cities. The best part of Vancouver is the food and the outdoor recreation, so don’t be disappointed by the lack of interesting architecture.

 

Vancouver Tip #16 Don’t Skip the Granville Island Public Market

 

Yes, it’s super touristy, and many locals will say to skip it, but it’s really a cool place to go in Vancouver. You can try all different kinds of food at the public market, shopping for local artisan goods, plus several waterfront restaurants. It’s also easy to get to.

 

Vancouver Tip #17 Don’t Pass Up the Aquabus or the Ferries

 

Walking around Vancouver can be tiring on the feet and legs, so don’t pass up the opportunity to take a ride on the Aquabus. Just like a city bus, the Aquabus takes passengers to docks all over the city. It’s a great way to get to Granville Island, and it’s very affordable.

Read: 10 Things That Shock Tourists When They Visit for the First Time

 

Vancouver Tip #18 Don’t Forget to Get a Compass Pass for Public Transportation

 

The Compass Pass is Vancouver’s public transportation pass. Passengers add money to it, and it’s used to get on and off the buses, the SkyTrain and the ferries.

 

Vancouver Tip #19 Don’t Expect to Find Rideshare Services Like Uber in Vancouver

 

The reason we have mentioned public transportation so much is that Uber and Lyft are not allowed in Vancouver. (as of Summer 2018) There are plenty of taxis, and taxi stands in Vancouver, so you do have that option, but it’s not as easy as other cities. Cycling is a popular mode of transport in Vancouver, too.

 

Vancouver Tip #20 Don’t Think You Have to Taxi Everywhere

 

There are a few places, like the University of British Columbia Museum, which are better to take a taxi. However, it’s not always needed. It’s really easy to get around Vancouver using public transportation, and walking. (Make sure you bring comfortable shoes!)

 

Vancouver Tip #21 Don’t Line Skip

 

When using public transportation, don’t skip the line. Vancouver lines are very orderly, so someone jumping the line, or skipping ahead, isn’t going to make any friends. The buses run relatively frequently, so don’t worry about missing this one, another one will be along shortly.

 

Vancouver Tip #22 Don’t Board Before Passengers Have Disembarked

 

When the train or bus does arrive, give the passengers time to get off before rushing in. This is a public transit courtesy pretty much everywhere, though. Make sure you leave room for them to exit before rushing in to claim your seat.

 

Vancouver Tip #23 Don’t Think Whistler and Victoria are “Easy Day Trips”

 

Whistler and Victoria are two of the best B.C. destinations near Vancouver. However, many people think these are an easy day trip from Vancouver. Technically, it’s possible, however it’s a very long day. To reach Victoria from Vancouver requires a bus then a ferry and then another bus, all of which takes around three hours. The drive to Whistler is gorgeous, with many scenic stops along the way, so it’s a bit far for just a day trip. Do yourself a favor and book an overnight stop in these areas so you can fully enjoy them.

 

These Vancouver travel “don’ts” will give you a good start to planning your Vancouver family vacation. For more Vancouver (and Canada) travel tips, check out some of our other videos and blog posts.

 

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

Posted on by admin

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:

 

 

A Few Things You Should Really Know BEFORE You Visit Canada

Posted on by admin

What To Know Before You Go: Canada

 

Greetings from Ottawa, Canada! Today we’re sharing some of the differences, and similarities, between Canada and the U.S. A lot of people around the world assume that Canada and the U.S. are pretty much the same, while others assume the two countries are wildly different. I’ve got some of the differences and similarities that are important for tourists, so you are better prepared for your Canadian vacation.

Language in Canada

 

In Ontario, English is the official language. However, just next door in Quebec, the official language is French. In Canada, English and French are both official languages. English is widely spoken throughout Canada, while the French language dominates in Quebec. In Quebec, the street signs will be in French, while other parts of Canada may show both English and French, or only English. The closer you get to Quebec, the more French you will see and hear.

 

Costs in Canada

 

Canada prices are about 20% more expensive than the U.S., on average. Of course, this will vary by city, and large cities such as Toronto and Montreal will be more expensive, just as U.S. cities like New York and Chicago are more expensive. Just like in the U.S., Canada has a sales tax, which varies by province. Total sales tax in Canada is around 13%. (vs. 9% for the U.S.)

 

ATM’s are easy to find in Canada. You will pay an ATM fee, but it’s typically slightly less than in the U.S.

The Don’ts of Vancouver

 

Currency in Canada

 

Like the U.S., Canada also uses dollars, and the denominations of Canadian dollars are similar to US dollars. Below the $5 bill, you’ll see some differences. In Canada, they have a $2 coin, or a twoonie, and a $1 coin, called the loonie. So, Canadian coins are actually valuable, unlike in the U.S. so keep track of them.

 

Tipping in Canada

 

Just like in the U.S., tipping in Canada is expected, and generally in the 15-20% range. Because servers rely on tips, unlike in Europe, you will generally have pretty good service in Canada.

Eating in Canada

 

Canada has a lot of similar style foods as the U.S. because it’s also a multicultural country. You’ll see a lot of Italian, Chinese and Mexican food in Canada. One difference between the countries is that the U.S. treats itself as a melting pot of cultures, while in Canada the differences in cultures are celebrated, and people are encouraged to maintain their ethnic cultures. Because of this, you’ll find great Chinatown and Little Italy districts in the larger Canadian cities. I highly recommend eating as much poutine as you can while in Canada, as it’s unique to Canada and not found very often in the States.

 

Driving in Canada

 

In Canada, speed limits are in kilometers per hour, so beware of the change, especially if you drive from the U.S. into Canada. Drivers in Canada are more slow and easy going. There seems to be less road rage in Canada. The traffic lights are also slightly different than in the U.S. Sometimes you’ll see two red lights, or they may be in different shapes. The biggest difference, though, is the flashing green light, which means only that lane of traffic has the right of way.

 

In keeping with the metric system, Canada also uses liters instead of gallons. So, when you are purchasing gasoline, the price is displayed in liters. There are 3.75 liters to the gallon, so the gas isn’t as cheap as you might think when you first see the signs.

 

Electricity in Canada

 

Canada uses the same voltage and electrical outlet configuration as the U.S. Electronics from the U.S will work in Canada, and vice versa so you won’t need a current converter or outlet adapter when visiting Canada from the U.S.

 

We love visiting Canada! My kids have a great time, and the people in Canada are super friendly. It feels much safer than many places in the U.S., and Canada has really cool architecture.

 

Additional Resources for Canada Travelers

 

Check out some of our other videos about traveling in Canada!

Five Things You’ll Love & Hate About Quebec City

 

10 Ways Canada and the USA Are The Same