Canada serviced apartments

 Overview

A vast and diverse country, Canada is famous for its unspoiled natural beauty, unique cultural blend and fascinating history. Canada serviced apartments provide a perfect base for any visitor to this lovely country, allowing you to enjoy a home away from home and experience everything Canada has to offer.

Weather

As it's such a large country, it's difficult to sum up Canadian weather! In most populated areas, summers are short and hot, and winters can be very cold. The weather in inland cities, particularly those in the prairies, can change very quickly. Serviced apartments in Montreal will offer a comfortable home through hot humid summers and cold snowy winters alike, while apartments in Toronto or Vancouver are designed for comfort in a more moderate climate. It's advisable to check the weather conditions for your specific destination before you travel.

Holidays

There are a number of holidays celebrated in Canada, including Canada Day on the 1st July, Victoria Day in May, Labour Day in September and Thanksgiving in October.

Transport

By Air:

As a large country, air travel is a good way of getting around; many cities have airports for both international and domestic services, and flights between major destinations are fairly frequent.

By Train:

Passenger rail in Canada is very safe and comfortable, and can offer some spectacular routes - the three day ride between Toronto and Vancouver passes through prairies and mountains with domed observation cars so you can make the most of the views.

By Car:

Driving is on the right. Traffic measurements (distances and speed limits) are metric. Seatbelt laws are strict in all provinces so belts should be used by all passengers. Road signs in Québec are in French only. Some roads, particularly in mountain areas, require vehicles to be equipped with winter tires or chains during the winter months.

By Bus:

Intercity coach travel is available between most major cities in Canada, although due to the size of the country some routes can be very long.

Language

Canada has two official languages; English is the main language in all parts of Canada except Québec, where French is the main language. All government communications and services are bilingual,  but road signs in Québec are solely in French. English speakers should be able to get by in tourist areas of Québec, but knowledge of a few basic phrases is useful:

Hello: Bonjour 

Goodbye: Au revoir 

Do you speak English?: Parlez-vous Anglais? 

Please: Si'l vous plait 

Thank you: Merci 

Important Information

The currency in Canada is the Canadian dollar, which divides into 100 cents. The one dollar coin is commonly called a "loonie" and the two dollar coin a "toonie".

Domestic electricity voltage is usually 120V with a standard North American two pin plug; adaptors are readily available but visitors from countries with a higher voltage may need a voltage converter, especially for heated appliances such as hair straighteners.

The telephone country code for Canada is +1, with a number of area codes. To call another country from Canada, dial 011 before the code for the country you are calling.

Traveller's Tips

It's wise to check visa and entry requirements before travelling to Canada; the entry requirements are taken very seriously.

Sales taxes apply in many provinces, and for most goods are not included in the displayed price, so you should expect to pay more than shown when you reach the till.