Canada

Here's the bottom line. Canada is an unbelievably beautiful place. The country is larger than you think and filled with more sites to see than anyone can imagne. From world class outdoor adventures, to cosmopolitan cities, Canada's attractions will welcome you with open arms. Canada is a country located north of America with ten proviences and three territories. I suggest using a gateway city like Montreal to start your exploration. 

fast facts & places

​Continent or Region: North America
Country: Canada 
Capital: Ottawa
Primary Language: English-French
Timezone(s): Atlantic, Eastern, Central, Mountain & Pacific 
Currency: Canadian Dollar

Major Tourist Areas:
​Ottawa
Calgary
Halifax
Montreal
​Niagara Falls
Quebec City
Toronto
Vancouver
Whitehorse
Winnipeg

transportation

By Air​
Generally speaking it is pretty easy to get in and out of Canada by air from major hubs in the US and Mexico. Major airports include (but are not limited to):

Toronto
Vancouver
Montreal
Calgary
Edmonton
Ottawa
Winnipeg
Halifax
Victoria
​
By Car
You can cross the border from the U.S. to Canada, but be prepared for wait times during peak periods. 
Driving: On the right
Car Rentals: You can rent a car in Canada. 

the weather & seasonality

​The weather in Canada varies from region to region. Generally speaking winters are harsh and cold.  

More about peak, value and shoulder seasons here. 

Video: Erik's Travel Tip- Best Time to Visit

visas and restrictions

​Passport: Yes, Americans need a valid passport to enter Canada
Visa: American citizens do not need a visa if traveling for vacation

More information on passports & visas can be found here.

official tourism resources

Just about every country, city, region or state has an official tourism bureau. 

Official tourism bureau of Canada

tips on traveling outside the us

I love traveling abroad as much as I love traveling within the United States. However, I want you to be safe and be a good representative of your home country. Even in places that are very friendly to Westerners, remember that you are in a foreign country. Understanding local customs is critical. So, here are a few tips as you prepare for your adventure.

1. Call The US Embassy and tell them you are leaving the country. That way your country is aware of your whereabouts in case of emergency.
2. Carry only the credit cards you are using to charge expenses. Call those cards before you leave. Do not travel with your debit cards. 
3. Clean out your wallet or purse and carry only what you need. 
4. Solve your mobile phone situation befre you depart. 
5. Keep all medications with you in your carry on.
6. Leave a photo copy of all your travel documents (passport, itinerary, copy of your credit cards) with a friend or at your home. 
7. Do not travel with expensive jewelry.
8. Make sure you travel with a valid passport or visa (if required). Also, bring another valid form of photo I.D., and photocopies of both I.D.s. in case of loss or theft.
9. Read up on local laws and practices before you get here.
10. Be a respective guest of the local customs and obey the local laws.
11. If English is not the primary language, then familiarize yourself with key phrases and make attempts in the country's primary language. Locals usually appreciate the effort.  
12. Keep luggage, handbags or backpacks in view at all times.
13. Keep possessions close to your body.
14. Don’t take around large amounts of cash.
15. Avoid wearing expensive jewellery on road trips or excursions.

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