Have you ever accidentally walked into a room and felt like you just landed on another planet? Welcome to Canada! Things here might be a bit different from what you're used to back home, and it can get a bit confusing at first. But don't worry—with a few tips and tricks, you'll blend in like maple syrup on pancakes.
Etiquettes
On Escalators:
Always stand on the right side of the escalator.
The left side is reserved for people who want to walk or rush. Don’t block the flow!
If you're traveling with bags or luggage, keep them close to your side to avoid tripping others
On Public Transit:
Blue seats on buses and trains are designated for those who need them, especially seniors, people with disabilities, and pregnant individuals. If you see someone in need, offer your seat.
Avoid blocking the doors while waiting to get on or off. Step aside to let people exit first.
Mind your bags: If you have a backpack, take it off and hold it to avoid bumping into others.
Learn More about Transit Ettiquetes here : https://www.ttc.ca/riding-the-ttc/Students/Transit-etiquette
At Doors:
If you’re entering a building and someone is right behind you, hold the door open. Don’t let it slam shut in their face.
If someone holds the door open for you, a simple “thank you” is always appreciated.
In Lineups:
Canadians love their lines! Stand patiently and keep a polite distance from the person in front of you. Crowding is a no-no.
If you need to leave the line temporarily, let someone nearby know: “I’ll be right back.”
Traveling Tips & Etiquettes
Crossing the Road:
White Man = Walk: A white pedestrian symbol means it’s your turn to cross.
Flashing Timer: Ideally, you shouldn’t start crossing when the timer starts counting down. But if you’ve already started, make it quick.
Red Hand = Stop: A solid red hand means wait until the next cycle
Pro Tip:
Always cross at designated crosswalks or intersections. Jaywalking might seem tempting, but it's illegal and unsafe.
When crossing at night or in bad weather, make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you before stepping out.
Understanding Road Name Signs:
In Canada, street name signs indicate the name of the road you’ll encounter if you turn left or right.
For example, if you’re on Yonge Street and see a sign saying "Finch Avenue" in front of you, it means turning left or right leads to Finch Avenue—not that the road you’re currently on is Finch.
A quick video tutorial or map app can help you get the hang of it.
Walking Safely:
Stick to Sidewalks: Always walk on sidewalks where available. If there are none, walk on the side of the road facing traffic.
Beware of Bike Lanes: Many streets have designated bike lanes. Stay clear of these areas to avoid accidents.
Polite Walking Habits:
Stay to the Right: Just like escalators, stick to the right side of sidewalks to allow others to pass.
Avoid Sudden Stops: If you need to check your phone or take a photo, step aside to avoid blocking the flow of pedestrians.
Headphones Etiquette: Keep the volume low so you can hear what’s happening around you.
Exploring with Confidence:
Keep a small foldable map or download offline maps for areas with limited Wi-Fi or mobile data.
When in doubt about directions, ask! Most people will happily point you in the right direction.
Navigating Canadian cities on foot might take a bit of practice, but with these tips in your pocket, you'll be strutting confidently in no time!
That’s all for now, fellow adventurers! I hope these tips help you navigate life in Canada with a bit more ease and confidence. Whether it's understanding local etiquette, making the most of your time, or just surviving the ups and downs of being a newcomer, I’m here for all of it. If you found this helpful, be sure to check out my other posts for more survival stories, real-world advice, and a dose of humor to get you through your journey.
Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram and Twitter for more updates, tips, and a behind-the-scenes look at life in Toronto. Let’s keep tackling this new chapter together—one step at a time!
Comentários