Canada
Major Canadian mobile providers Bell, Telus, and Rogers operate here. Sub-brands include Fido, Koodo, and Virgin Plus. SIM cards are available at retail stores in larger towns or major Canadian cities. An Unlocked phone for local SIM cards is necessary. International eSIM services also present an alternative to physical SIM cards.
Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, B&Bs, cafes, and many restaurants. Most accommodations offer free Wi-Fi. Cellular service may be spotty or absent in remote inland areas, rugged coastal stretches, or national parks. Offline maps download before entering these areas is wise.
Quebec's official language is French. English is often understood in tourist areas, especially by younger generations. Basic French phrases earn appreciation, communicating respect for local culture. Locals often respond positively to attempts at their language.
Knowing a few phrases fosters connections and smooth interactions.
Basic French phrases earn appreciation, communicating respect for local culture.
Operating hours vary, with seasonal considerations, especially outside of summer.
Mon-Wed 9 AM-5:30 PM, Thu-Fri 9 AM-9 PM, Sat 9 AM-5 PM, Sun 12 PM-5 PM. Shorter hours in smaller towns or off-season.
Lunch 12 PM-2 PM. Dinner 5 PM-9 PM/10 PM. Cafes open from 7 AM.
Mon-Fri 9 AM-4 PM. Some branches open Saturday mornings. ATMs are widely available.
On public holidays, government offices, banks, and some businesses close or have reduced hours. Tourist attractions may adjust schedules.
Outside of peak summer (July-August), many tourist attractions, independent restaurants, and smaller accommodations close for winter (November-April/early May). Verify hours in advance.
Always verify specific holiday schedules for planned visits to businesses and attractions.
Respect local customs for enjoyable interactions and cultural immersion.
A simple "Bonjour" upon entering a shop or restaurant is standard and polite. A handshake is common in formal situations. Casual and comfortable attire is acceptable, reflecting the region's outdoor-focused lifestyle. Smart casual suits nicer restaurants.
Refer to sections 7.1 and 2.3 for details on dining customs and tipping. Tipping 15-20% for good service is standard. Take your time during meals; dining is often a social occasion.
Photographing landscapes and public spaces is generally fine. Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially in rural communities or for close-ups. Respect private property signs. Do not disturb wildlife or natural habitats for photos.
Avoid discussions about Quebec's political status or sovereignty unless well-informed. If locals raise the topic, approach with respect and listen actively without strong opinions. Avoid generalizations about French language or Quebecois culture. Canada welcomes diverse lifestyles.
Direct communication with attractions and accommodations before your visit is highly recommended for specific needs.
Airport services enhance your travel journey. Consider lounge access and flight delay compensation options.
For frequent travelers, airport lounge access offers comfort and amenities before flights. Lounges provide a quiet space to relax, work, or grab a bite to eat away from busy terminals. Priority Pass offers access to independent airport lounges worldwide.
Flight disruptions like delays, cancellations, or denied boarding can cause frustration. Services exist to help travelers claim compensation for such inconveniences, depending on regulations and circumstances. Compensair works to secure appropriate compensation for eligible flights.
Various providers specialize in making travel smoother. These services cater to specific needs, from comfort at the airport to dealing with unexpected issues during your journey.
Beyond airport-specific services, other tools can support your travels, providing convenience and connectivity throughout your trip.
Utilizing these services can reduce stress and enhance comfort during your journeys.
