Calgary Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Mobile & Internet

Canada has three main mobile providers: Rogers, Bell, Telus. Strong network coverage in Calgary and most of the Rocky Mountains.

Connectivity Options

Purchase local SIM cards with prepaid plans at provider stores or the airport. Passport needed.
Free Wi-Fi at most hotels, cafes, restaurants, shopping malls, public libraries, and at Calgary International Airport (YYC).
eSIM options available from providers and third-party services. (e.g., Airalo).

Language & Postal Services

Speaking english and French are Canada's two official languages. English is predominant in Calgary. Language barriers minimal for English speakers.

Further Information

Translation apps like Google Translate are useful for non-English speakers.
Canada Post is the national postal service. Post offices are throughout Calgary.
Stamps for postcards also at convenience stores and pharmacies.

Important English Phrases

Polite Greetings

"Hello" / "Hi"
"Please"
"Thank you"
"Excuse me" / "Sorry" (frequently used)

Local Terms

"Washroom" (for restroom)
"Loonie" ($1 coin)
"Toonie" ($2 coin)
"Eh?" (casual conversational tag)

Connectivity Tip

Using an eSIM from Airalo or a portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi can simplify staying connected while abroad.

Business Hours & Schedules

General operating hours for various businesses and how holidays can affect services.

Retail Shop Hours

Most retail shops open 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Mon-Wed, Sat). Extended to 9:00 PM (Thu, Fri). Sundays: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

Restaurant Hours

Lunch: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM. Dinner: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM/10:00 PM (later on weekends). Cafes open around 7:00 AM.

Grocery Store Hours

Most large grocery stores open daily 7:00 AM/8:00 AM - 9:00 PM/10:00 PM. Some locations may be 24 hours.

Banking & ATMs

Canadian banks typically operate Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM. Some branches have extended or Saturday hours.

Access to Funds

ATMs are widely available at bank branches, malls, convenience stores.
Use major bank ATMs to avoid extra fees from third-party machines.
Credit cards are widely accepted for most transactions.

Seasonal & Holiday Considerations

Some outdoor attractions (Heritage Park) operate seasonally, closing/reducing hours in winter. Mountain roads have seasonal closures.

Holiday Impact

Statutory holidays (New Year's Day, Canada Day, December 25th) close most companies.
Public transit might operate on a reduced schedule on holidays.
Check ahead for specific attractions or services on holidays.

Airport Services

Lounge Access

Relax with Priority Pass access to airport lounges.
Enjoy comfortable seating and amenities.
Access to Wi-Fi and complimentary refreshments.

Flight Compensation

Get compensation for flight delays or cancellations.
Compensair assist with claims.
Service helps navigate compensation process.

Always Confirm Hours

Always check specific business and attraction websites for current operating hours, especially on public holidays or during off-peak seasons.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Canadians are generally known for their politeness and civility.

Greeting Customs

A firm handshake is common for formal introductions. Casual encounters: nod, "hello," or "hi."

Tips for Interactions

Maintain eye contact during conversations for politeness.
Politeness is appreciated; "please" and "thank you" go a long way.
Canadians generally value personal space.

Attire & Dining

Calgary generally a casual city. Jeans and comfortable clothing acceptable in most settings. Smart casual for fine dining.

Dining Practices

Tipping 15-20% for good service is standard and expected.
Using cutlery is customary for the majority of meals.
Splitting bills common and easily accommodated.

Photography & Taboos

Generally permissible to photograph in public spaces. Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children.

Cultural Sensitivities

Do not photograph private property without consent.
Avoid direct comparisons with the United States unless positive.
Politics, religion, and personal income are generally private topics.

Language Learning

English and French are the official languages. Learning a few phrases can enrich your experience.

Explore Language Learning

Consider an application such as Rosetta Stone to learn basic phrases.
Enhance your travel experience with basic local language.
Connect more deeply with local culture.

Social Norms

Common Courtesies

"Sorry" used frequently, even for minor inconveniences.
Respect queues in public places; wait your turn.
On escalators, stand on the right, walk on the left.

Other Etiquette

Holding doors for additional people is common.
Canada is progressive with powerful legal protections for all.
Approach interactions with humility, avoid stereotypes.

Cultural Awareness

Religious Site Etiquette

Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered).
Remove your shoes if customary.
Be quiet and respectful, particularly during religious services.

Phrases That Impress Locals

"How about that Chinook!" (weather phenomenon).
"Great to be in Stampede City!" (during Stampede).
"I love the pathway system." (city amenity).

Respectful Conduct

Always approach interactions with humility. Avoid stereotypes and be open to learning from local customs.

Accessibility Information

Infrastructure & Transport

Canadian cities, including Calgary, have good infrastructure for accessibility. Newer buildings incorporate ramps, elevators, accessible washrooms.

Accessible Transportation

All C-Train stations wheelchair accessible.
Most Calgary Transit buses have ramps or lifts.
City's pathway network along rivers generally flat and paved.

Accessible Attractions

Major attractions are wheelchair accessible.

Fully Accessible Sites

Calgary Tower
Calgary Zoo
Studio Bell, National Music Centre

Visual & Hearing Needs

Guide dogs permitted in all public places in Canada. Some venues offer assistive listening devices.

Information Sources

City of Calgary website has information on accessible parking.
Access Calgary a specific shared-ride transit for individuals with disabilities (pre-registration needed).
Tourism Calgary may have specific accessibility resources.

Additional Accessible Sites

Many other locations accommodate diverse accessibility requirements.

Other Accessible Locations

TELUS Spark Science Centre
Most museums
Heritage Park Historical Village (some accessible choices pathways, facilities)

Plan Ahead for Needs

Inquire in advance if you require specific services like assistive listening devices or sign language interpretation for events.

Calgary Travel Tips