Canada - Handy Local Information FAQs

The currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Most places accept credit/debit cards and contactless payments, even in remote areas. Please be aware if you are traveling to Alaska on a cruise you may need American Dollars on board the ship. Your travel expert will be able to advise. 

Tipping is not mandatory but generally expected. In most cases, a tip in the range of 15 percent to 20 percent is perfectly acceptable. 

Canada spans six time zones, so the time difference with the UK depends on where you are travelling:

• Newfoundland: 3.5 hours behind the UK
• Atlantic (e.g. Halifax): 4 hours behind
• Eastern (e.g. Toronto, Montreal): 5 hours behind
• Central (e.g. Winnipeg): 6 hours behind
• Mountain (e.g. Calgary, Banff): 7 hours behind
• Pacific (e.g. Vancouver): 8 hours behind

Canada and the UK both observe Daylight Saving Time, though the change dates can differ slightly in spring and autumn.

The standard voltage is 110-120 V. European/UK plugs are not compatible with Canadian electrical sockets therefore to plug in your electric appliances, you will need a plug adapter or a converter. In general, an adapter is all you need for non-motorized appliances for examples camera chargers, phone chargers, laptops, etc however a converter is necessary if you intend to use appliances with a motor, such as a hairdryer or an electric razor. Note that a converter can also be used as an adapter; there is no need to buy both.  

For more information check Gov.uk