Socio, Culture, and Tourism in Canada

Total population
Canada 34,300,000
Regions with significant populations
United States 1,003,850 Hong Kong 200,000 United Kingdom 72,518 Taiwan 52,500 People's Republic of China 40,000 Lebanon 45,000 Australia 27,289 Italy 23,487 France 18,913 Greece 12,477 Egypt 10,000 South Korea 8,763 Belgium 4,145 New Zealand 7,770 Switzerland 7,519 Philippines 7,500 Portugal 7,326 Japan 7,067 Netherlands 8,427 Mexico 5,768 Norway 2,290 Ireland 4,081 Spain 3,810 Denmark 2,752 Sweden 2,742
Languages
Official languages are English (Canadian English) and French (Canadian French). Numerous indigenous American languages are also recognized.
Religion
Multiple denominations

canadiens (french)

Canadians come from many different racial and religious backgrounds. Consequently, it is not easy to define a typical Canadian family. Although the majority of Canadians are Catholic or Protestant, many belong to other religions. Some cultural characteristics, however, are shared by most Canadians.

Body Language

It is customary to shake hands when being introduced. It is not usually considered objectionable to lightly touch someone on the shoulder or elbow during a discussion. Most Canadians do not often kiss or hug when greeting friends.

Introductions in Canada

In Canada, people use their given name first and their surname (family name) last. If you meet someone older than you for the first time, you should probably not use the person's first name. It is safer to use the surname, preceded by a courtesy title such as: Ms., Mrs., Mr., or Dr.

Formal Greeting to a Stranger: "Hello Mr. Martin. I am very pleased to meet you. My name is Yuri."

Informal Greeting to a Friend: "Hi Thomas. How are you?"

In the Home

Canadians often behave quite casually at home. Some families do not put an emphasis on greetings and salutations, so do not be disappointed if your host family does not show a lot of emotion when you arrive or leave. Many Canadians do not wear shoes or hats inside their homes.

Smoking in Canada

Smoking is becoming increasingly unpopular and is not permitted in most public buildings. Many families do not allow smoking in their homes. If you smoke, please mention it on your application for admission, so that we can match you with hosts who will not mind.

Equality

Canada enjoys a society that is open and relatively free of class distinctions. Most Canadians take pride in the fact that all people deserve the same rights and respect, regardless of their gender, race, religion, or cultural background. People in Canada usually resent comments that seem disrespectful to anyone from a particular background.

Location: Northern North America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean on the east, North Pacific Ocean on the west, and the Arctic Ocean on the north, north of the conterminous US
Capital: Ottawa
Climate: varies from temperate in south to subarctic and arctic in north
Population: 33,212,696 (July 2008 est.)
Ethnic Make-up: British Isles origin 28%, French origin 23%, other European 15%, Amerindian 2%, other, mostly Asian, African, Arab 6%, mixed background 26%
Religions: Roman Catholic 42.6%, Protestant 23.3% (including United Church 9.5%, Anglican 6.8%, Baptist 2.4%, Lutheran 2%), other Christian 4.4%, Muslim 1.9%, other and unspecified 11.8%, none 16% (2001 census)
Government: constitutional monarchy that is also a parliamentary democracy and a federation

» Language in Canada

A multitude of languages are spoken in Canada. According to the 2006 census, English and French are the preferred language ("home language", or language spoken most often in the home) of 67.1% and 21.5% of the population, respectively. English and French are recognised by the Constitution of Canada as "official languages," which means that all laws of the federal government are enacted in both English and French and that federal government services are required to be available in both languages.

The five most widely-spoken non-official languages are Chinese (the home language of 2.6% of Canadians), Punjabi (0.8%), Spanish (0.7%), Italian (0.6%), and Arabic (0.5%).

» Canadian Society and Culture

Cultural Diversity

Canada is culturally diverse. This goes back to the 1890s when it began inviting people from all over the world to settle in the country to help it develop and grow. Canadian immigration policy was historically open, welcoming and egalitarian in its philosophy. This has also manifest into the psyche of the nation where people are encouraged and to retain their cultural identities, traditions, languages and customs.

Individuals concerned with the group

Canadians are generally a tolerant, polite and extremely community-oriented people. Although they are individualistic in terms of their basic cultural traits, they nevertheless place a great deal of emphasis on the individual's responsibility to the community. This is seen as giving balance and a good quality of life.

Regionalism

Most Canadians have a strong allegiance to their province or region, sometimes more so than to the country. There are some broad differences between regions, which can generally be summed up as follows:

• Atlantic Provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland): The people are somewhat reserved and provincial, to the point that they are seen as old-fashioned.
• Ontario: This is the business hub and the people tend to be business-like and conservative.
• Western Canada (Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan): The people are open, friendly and relaxed.
• British Colombia: The people are less conventional. This province is often viewed as the Canada of the future.
• Quebec: The French region, has a distinct cultural identity. The people are extremely regionalistic/independent.
• North: The people have a strong pioneer spirit.

Customs and Etiquette in Canada

» Meeting and Greeting

• The most common greeting is the handshake.
• It should be firm and accompanied by direct eye contact and a sincere smile.
• Wait until invited before using someone's first name although Canadians tend to move to a first-name basis rapidly.
• French Canadian friends may greet each other by lightly kissing on the cheeks (once on the left cheek and once on the right).
• If using French in Quebec always use the formal pronoun "vous" (you) when speaking to someone and do not switch to the informal "tu" unless invited to do so.

» Gift Giving

• In general, Canadians give gifts for birthdays and Christmas.
• If invited to someone's home for dinner, take a box of good chocolates, flowers or a bottle of wine.
• In Quebec, sending flowers in advance of the dinner party is proper protocol.
• In Quebec, if you give wine, make sure it is of the highest quality you can afford.
• Do not give white lilies as they are used at funerals.
• Do not give cash or money as a present.
• Gifts are usually opened when received.

» Dining Etiquette

• Table manners are relatively relaxed and informal in Canada.
• Quebec does see a little more formality.
• Table manners are generally Continental, i.e. the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.
• Wait to be shown to your seat.
• Do not begin eating until the hostess starts.
• Do not rest your elbows on the table.
• Feel free to refuse individual foods or drink without offering an explanation.
• Leaving a small amount at the end of the meal is generally acceptable.
• In formal situations, the host gives the first toast. An honoured guest should return the toast later in the meal. Women may give toasts.

Business Etiquette and Protocol

» Meeting and Greeting

• Canadian businesspeople often begin relationships in a reserved manner; once people get to know one another is becomes friendly and informal.
• Canadians appreciate politeness and expect others to adhere to the proper protocol for any given situation.
• Shake hands with everyone at the meeting upon arrival and departure.
• Maintain eye contact while shaking hands.
• Men may offer their hand to a woman without waiting for her to extend hers first.
• Honorific titles and surnames are usually not used.
• However, academic titles are important in Quebec and are used with the honorific Monsieur or Madame.
• Business cards are exchanged after the initial introduction.
• In Quebec, have one side of your business card translated into French. Hand the card so the French side faces the recipient.
• Examine any card you receive before putting it in your card case.

» Canadian Communication Styles

It is difficult to specify any national trait in terms of communication in Canada due to its regionalism and cultural diversity. However, there are some basic communication styles that are fairly standard across the country. For example, businesspeople are generally polite, easy-going and somewhat informal.

In general, communication is” moderately indirect” perhaps reflecting an amalgamation of both North American and British tendencies. Although most Canadians can disagree openly when necessary, they prefer to do so with tact and diplomacy. Their communication style is essentially pragmatic and relies on common sense. If you come from a culture where communication is very direct, you may wish to soften your demeanour and tone so as not to appear threatening.

Communication styles vary most between Anglophone and Francophone parts of the country. Francophones are generally more indirect than Anglophones, although less so than the French. They also tend to be more exuberant than Anglophones. Anglophones do not generally interrupt someone who is speaking. They consider it rude not to let a person complete their thought before entering the discussion. Francophones are more likely to interrupt another speaker.

Canadians communicate more by the spoken word rather than non-verbal expressions. Non-verbal expressions are only really used to add emphasis to a message or are part of an individual’s personal communication style.

Canadians like their space and prefer to be at an arm’s length when speaking to someone.

Canadians are reticent to discuss their personal lives with business associates. They expect people to speak in a straightforward manner and to be able to back up their claims with examples. They do not make exaggerated claims and are suspicious of something that sounds too good to be true.

» Business Meetings

Canadians begin meetings with a minimal amount of small talk although one should expect to spend a few minutes exchanging pleasantries and the like. In Quebec there may be more time spent on relationship-building.

Meetings are generally well-organized and adhere to time schedules. They tend to be informal and relaxed in manner even if the subjects being discussed are serious. When meeting with Anglophones, meetings may seem more democratic as all participants will engage and contribute. Meetings with Francophones, due to a greater respect for hierarchy and position, may revolve more around the most senior attendees.

Meetings in Canadian companies are used to review proposals, make plans, brain-storm and communicate decisions. Attendees will generally represent a variety of levels and experiences; all are expected to express opinions.

When presenting information, it is important to have facts and figures to substantiate claims and promises. Canadians are essentially rational and logical and thus they will not be convinced by emotions, passion or feelings.

» Useful information and links about Canada

* Currency - the currency of Canada is known as the Canadian Dollar. Use the free currency converter to compare to dollars, GBP or Euro.
* Weather - visit Yahoo!'s up to date Weather for Cananda.
* Translation Services - do you need a French translation service?
* Intercultural Know-how - use the Intercultural Business Communication tool for tips on doing business in Canada.
* Dialling Code - the international dialling code for Brazil is +1.
* Time - Canada is -4 hours GMT.
> * Management - for information about being a manager in Canada visit the free Management in Canada guide.

TOP 10 PLACES TO VISIT IN CANADA!!

10. Prince Edward Island

Green pastures and the distinct red-soil cliffs make Prince Edward Island a great destination for travellers who are just looking for some relaxation or a fun day at the beach. Take a car to get around, the island is not big so you could see everything in a day.

Prince Edward Island

9. Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa is the Capital City of Canada and a great place to soak in Canadian culture. The Changing of the Guard on Parliament Hill or the RCMP march are always popular sights, along with some world class museums. There are also many parks and bike paths that make summer outdoors fun. The winters aren't bad either. The Rideau Canal, which connects the Ottawa River to the Great Lakes for leisure boaters, makes for the longest skating rink in the world when it freezes.

Ottawa, Ontario

8. Kelowna, British Columbia

Where do Canadians go on vacation? Kelowna, BC. In the heart of the Canadian Rockies is the Okanagan Valley, a river-valley that has some of Canada's best weather. Warm in the summer and mild in the winter; the most you can ask for in the Great White North. The valley produces Canada's world famous B.C. apples (illegal in the U.S.) and wine. The Valley has a marina for the avid boaters and many golf courses. Relaxing at the beach or sitting on the porch of a lakeside cottage is everyone's idea of the perfect destination.

Kelowna, British Columbia

7. Churchill, Manitoba

You might be wondering why Churchill? Well hear me out, Churchill, Manitoba is a small town in northern Manitoba on the shores of the Hudson Bay. The town is the Polar Bear Capital of the World (sightings are year round), Beluga Whale Capital of the World (sightings from late June to late August), and one of the best places to catch a glimpse of an Aurora Borealis or Northern-Lights (sightings from late November through to late March). No-one ever forgets a visit to Churchill. It's the best place to connect to the many wonders of mother nature.

Click thumbnail to view full-size

Aurora Borealis, Churchill, Manitoba

6. Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is a great place to see and do anything and everything. You can enjoy the city's night life, ski at Whistler and go whale-watching along the coast. Camping, hiking, and boating are also just a few of the things you can do when in town. If you love the outdoors and want to see some real wildlife, Vancouver should be on your itinerary.

Vancouver, British Columbia

5. Niagra Falls, Ontario

It's one of those unfortunate 'luck of the draw' things I'm afraid to say, because the majority of the Falls are technically in the United States. This would be fine except that to see it, you have to be on the Canadian side. That's why Niagara Falls lands on Canada's Top-Ten list. To get to the other side there is a pedestrian bridge that links Canada with the United States without the inconvenience of border patrols, yeah!

This tourist town is great for sightseeing and if you happen to be in Toronto, Niagara Falls is not far. Niagara Falls is also a popular place to get married, competing with Las Vegas for favourite wedding destinations. Niagara Falls was also rated as the World's Most Romantic Place.

Niagara Falls, Ontario

4. Quebec City, Quebec

Visiting Quebec City is like taking a tour of France in North America. Quebec culture is rich and unique from the rest of Canada, and no-where is it as evident as it is in Quebec City. The world famous Chateaux Frontenac overlooks the St. Lawrence River on a cliff that was once a French Fort. The Old-City is contained in an stone wall that once protected the city from the British Navy. The City Fortress makes Quebec City one of the last walled cities in the world.

Quebec City, Quebec

3. Montreal, Quebec

Montreal is perhaps my all-time favourite place to just walk around by myself. No other city will allow you to be on a hill overlooking the city from above; shop at fancy French boutiques; dine at some of the best restaurants in the world; see old historic buildings and modern skyscrapers; enjoy a vibrant nightlife; and watch the sun rise and set at the port - all within walking distance. You will feel as if you have walked into a different dimension. Being the world's second largest French speaking city (second only to Paris) some would compare it to France. I on the other hand believe that Montreal is in a league of its own.

Montreal, Quebec

2. Banff, Alberta

Banff is great but a little over-crowded at times. Best to take in the nature experience during the off seasons. But it doesn't matter what time of year it is, there is always stuff to see and do in Banff. Having been to Banff many times, I have never gone and not seen either a bear, elk, deer or mountain goat. With the guaranteed wildlife sightings, you will always enjoy your stay at the Banff Springs Hotel. Be sure to take advantage of their outdoor hot-springs while you are there. Reservations at the hotel are made months in advance but don't fret because there are many other hotels in the area.

Banff Springs Hotel, Alberta

1. Lake Louise, Alberta

The picture says it all. Deep in the Canadian Rockiesa large turquoise lake trickles from the thousands year old glacier in the distance. The Fairmont Hotel is world class and books visitors months in advance. But don't let this deter you from visiting, there are many camp-grounds that make visiting fun and affordable.

Lake Louise, Alberta