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Official name: Canada
Capital city: Ottawa
Official language: English, French
Population: Around 41.5 million
Currency: Canadian dollar (CAD)
Time zone: GMT-3 to GMT-8 (province-dependent)
Driving side: Right
Climate: Arctic in the far north, continental in the interior with cold winters and warm summers, and milder, wetter conditions on the Pacific coast
Canada, the world’s second-largest country by area, stretches from the Atlantic to the Pacific and into the Arctic. Known for its vast wilderness, multicultural cities, and friendly reputation, it offers a blend of outdoor adventure and urban sophistication. From the soaring Rocky Mountains and Niagara Falls to cosmopolitan Toronto, French-speaking Montreal, and scenic Vancouver, Canada is a destination of contrasts and immense natural beauty.
Canada borders only one country, the United States, and has the world’s longest undefended land boundary. Its landscape includes the Rocky Mountains, sweeping prairies, boreal forests, thousands of lakes, and Arctic tundra. The country spans six time zones and experiences a wide range of climates - subarctic in the north, continental across most provinces, and temperate on the Pacific coast. Natural hazards include severe winter weather, avalanches in mountainous regions, and wildfires during hot, dry summers.
Most visitors arrive via major international airports such as Toronto Pearson, Vancouver, or Montreal-Trudeau. Distances within Canada are vast, so domestic flights are common, though cross-country rail and long-distance buses are alternatives. Driving is straightforward, with well-maintained highways, but winter conditions can make travel hazardous. Canada is popular for skiing, hiking, wildlife watching, and city breaks. Visitors should be prepared for varied weather and, in some regions, encounters with bears or other wildlife.
British citizens and many other nationals do not need a full visa for short visits but must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying to Canada. Passports must be valid for the duration of stay. Border officials may ask for proof of funds and onward travel. The Canadian High Commission in London provides consular services for UK residents, and the UK High Commission in Ottawa assists British nationals in Canada.
The official currency is the Canadian dollar (CAD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are plentiful in towns and cities, though less common in rural and northern areas. Tipping is standard practice, usually 15–20% in restaurants. Canada can be expensive compared with the UK, especially in major cities, with accommodation, food, and transport among the highest costs for visitors.
Healthcare standards are high, but medical treatment is not free for visitors, so comprehensive travel insurance is essential. Emergency services are reliable in urban areas, though facilities in remote regions may be limited. No special vaccinations are required for entry, but travellers should be up to date on routine immunisations. Risks include severe cold-related illnesses in winter and insect-borne diseases such as Lyme disease in some rural areas. Travellers should take precautions appropriate to the season and region they are visiting.
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