If you are looking for an outdoor experience in the clean, fresh air then look no further than Canada! From leisurely hikes to extreme rock climbing, the activities on offer are endless, with all of them taking place is some of the most breath-taking landscapes you will ever witness.
Equally, Canada’s cities are modern, welcoming and diverse. A great escape from the outdoors, should you choose to do so.
Here is our quick guide to visiting Canada.
Where is Canada?
Canada is located in the northern part of the continent of North America. It covers over 9million square kilometres of incredible land, plus 900,000 kilometres of water. This makes it the 2nd largest nation in the world!
When is the best time to visit Canada?
Each of Canada’s 4 seasons offers something different, so there are pros and cons for each, depending on what you prefer.
The autumn, months from September to November is our favourite time to visit. The summer crowds have left allowing for cheaper prices, and the weather is a little cooler, but not too cold.
The summer months of June to August are the most popular for visitors, with warmer temperatures and high humidity, although often a little cooler on the west coast. Schools are on holidays during this time also.
In the winter, between December and February (but sometimes it lasts later) is cold and long. If you are happy to brave the cold, this will be the best time for the cheapest prices for travel and accommodation.
Due to the size of the country, the weather can vary greatly. The weather in one city is unlikely to be the same as another at that time of year.
Toronto: This major city features soaring skyscrapers, pretty green parks and the skyline’s famous CN Tower. A 90-minute journey south of Toronto will take you to the famous Niagara Falls. Another reason to visit!
During the winter you can enjoy the Winterlicious restaurant festival, enjoying lots of world-class restaurant food at more affordable prices.
A visit to the east coast of Canada should not be complete without a visit to Niagara Falls! The Canadian side of the falls allows a full view of all 3 falls that make up this famous landmark. You can even take a trip behind the falls!
Tip: if you visit between November to January sees the Niagara Falls Winter Lights Festival, with light shows and fireworks over the falls!
Canada Day: July 1st is Canada’s national day. Similar to July 4th in the USA, you can expect fireworks and lots of other patriotic festivities.
Calgary Stampede: The ‘Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth’ is held every July in Calgary for 10 days. The rodeo celebrates the countries ranching heritage.
Do I need travel insurance for Canada?
It is not a legal requirement for entry to Canada that you have travel insurance. However, medical bills are not paid by the government, they are to be paid by you, and they can be high. So, unless you have $50,000+ ready to pay for a fee should the worst happen, we highly recommend you take out comprehensive travel insurance which covers Canada.
Travel insurance doesn’t just cover medical bills; of course, it covers a wide range of things including baggage cover, delay or cancellation cover, loss of documents cover and much more.
Find out more about our policies for travel insurance for Canada here:
What currency do they use in Canada?
In Canada, they use the Canadian Dollar (CAD). It is different in value to other Dollars around the world, however, it still uses the $ or is sometimes displayed as C$ or Can$.
Do I need a visa to visit Canada as a UAE citizen?
Citizens of the UAE do not need a visit to visit Canada for short stays of up to 6 months.
However, UAE citizens do still need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through a Canadian airport. An eTA is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada and it costs CAD 7 at the time of writing. It is valid for up to 5 years or until your passport expires, whichever is first.
You can find out more about the eTA and how to apply here
Applications take a few minutes. Many get approval within hours, but some can take longer. It is advised you apply for your eTA before you book your flight to Canada.
We hope that you have an incredible time in Canada should you decide to travel. Don’t forget, if you need any more information on travel insurance for Canada, please do not hesitate to contact us.
