Language

The official languages are English and French (the latter predominantly in Quebec).

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Money

The currency used is the Canadian Dollar (CAD), which is divided into 100 cents. One-dollar coins are also known as loonies (due to the picture of a loon, a type of bird, on the coin), and two-dollar coins as toonies. Banks and bureaux de change will change money and travellers cheques, as will some hotels, but the rate will not be as good. Major credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are plentiful. US Dollars are largely accepted, though due to fraud, larger notes might not be and change is usually given in Canadian dollars.

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Communications

The international access code for Canada is +1. The outgoing code is 011 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 01144 for the United Kingdom); the outgoing code is not necessary for calls to the US and the Caribbean. The area code for Ottawa is (1)613, and (1)416 for Toronto. Internet cafes are widely available. Most international mobile phone companies have roaming agreements with Canadian operators, however it may be cheaper to buy a pay-as-you-go SIM card if visiting the country for long periods.

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Tipping

There is no service charge added to restaurant bills, and staff expect to receive tips; 15 per cent is the usual amount. Hairdressers and taxi drivers are also usually tipped at the same rate, while bellhops, doormen, porters and similar service providers at hotels, airports and stations are generally paid $1 per item of luggage carried. Tour guides and bus drivers generally receive $3-$5 perday.

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Safety

Most visits to Canada are trouble-free. The country is politically stable. The crime rate is low, but travellers are advised to take sensible precautions to safeguard their belongings as they would anywhere. Canada is prone to tornadoes between May and September.

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Health

No vaccinations are necessary for travel to Canada. West Nile Virus, spread by mosquitoes breeding in stagnant water, poses a threat during summer months in rural areas, so insect-repellent measures are advised for those visiting the countryside particularly in Saskatchewan, Alberta, Ontario, Manitoba, and Quebec. Rabies is a problem and can be spread by small animals such as raccoons and bats. Medical care is excellent, but expensive - medical insurance is essential. Food and water are entirely safe.

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Electricity

Electrical current is 110 volts, 60Hz. American-style flat two-pin plugs are standard.

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Contributors to this guide: Word Travels, World Airport Guide, Cheapflights

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