Apply for a Canadian tourist visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV) in advance.
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
Have a return ticket and proof of sufficient funds to show immigration officers.
Canada has four seasons, so pack appropriately for the time of year.
Winter (Dec-Feb): Bring heavy jackets, gloves, and boots (it can be extremely cold, especially in cities like Toronto and Montreal).
Summer (June-Aug): Light clothing is fine, but bring a jacket for cooler nights.
Spring/Fall: Layered clothing is best as temperatures fluctuate.
Major cities have efficient public transport (buses, subways, and trains). Get a transit pass to save money.
Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are available in many cities.
If renting a car, remember that Canada drives on the right side and some areas require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Get a SIM card or portable WiFi upon arrival for easy navigation and communication.
Free WiFi is available in most hotels, cafes, and shopping centers.
Canada can be expensive, especially in cities like Vancouver and Toronto.
Budget for meals ($15-$30 per meal), public transport ($3-$5 per ride), and attractions ($20-$50 per entry).
911 is the emergency number for police, fire, and medical services.
Consider getting travel insurance as healthcare in Canada is expensive for non-residents.
Pharmacies like Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall are common for over-the-counter medicines.
Must-Try Cuisine: Peameal bacon sandwich, butter tart, and diverse international foods from Kensington Market
Must-Try Cuisine: West Coast seafood (salmon, sushi, spot prawns), Nanaimo bars
Must-Try Cuisine: Poutine, tourtière (meat pie), maple taffy
Must-Try Cuisine: Bison burger, Alberta steak, BeaverTails (fried dough pastry)
Must-Try Cuisine: Smoked meat sandwich, bagels, poutine
🇨🇦 Have a great trip and enjoy your Canadian adventure! ✈️