Articles Tagged with: dos and donts

Welcome to Colombia!

Colombia is South America’s second most populated country and houses 10% of the world’s biodiversity. After decades of civil conflict, Colombia is now safe to visit and travelers are discovering what they’ve been missing. The diversity of the country with its thrill natural beauty of beaches, coastal lands, mountains, riverbanks, museums, zoo, and botanical garden, as well as the most livable Columbia people will well astonish you, but the travelers should exercise vigilance at all times due to the level of violent crime. Although kidnapping and homicide rates in urban areas have dropped in recent years, they remain high.

Colombians are friendly and very easy going, Spanish style and culture can still be seen in parts of the country, although in Bogotá, North American attitudes and clothes are becoming prevalent. In darker days people used to say, ‘if only it weren’t for the violence and drugs, Colombia would be paradise.’ It is an easy country to fall in love with, but make sure you are aware of the following Colombia travel tips, dos and donts for your safe travel and life time experience in Colombia.

Colombia Travel Taboo

 Homosexuality is not widely accepted or understood, especially by older generations.

Colombia Travel Donts 

• Do not nude at the beaches or in public places. Woman should not walk without the top on the beach.
• Do not carry large amount of cash or expensive stuff in public that would tempt thieves. Put your wallet inside and purse close to your body.
• Do not stay out late at night by yourself and do not get drunk alone, you may wake up without your wallet.
• Do not wear expensive watches and jewellery.
• Do not show the slightest bit of interest in any of the hawkers selling goods on the streets because they’ll just follow you.
• Do not ever say a bad word about the Catholic religion or Colombia. The most Colombians are closely bound up with their identity. To criticize any aspect of Colombia is to criticize them.
• Do not be tempted or over do the drugs. For many travelers Colombia is the place to come and plug up their nostrils with cocaine and party until dawn, but that’s too dangerous.
• Do not use your two fingers to indicate length of something which is an obscene gesture.  Instead, extend your right arm and use your left hand to mark off distance.
• Do not make jokes about drugs or drug consumption. For Colombians it’s not a taboo to talk about this issue, but be sure to approach it as a serious conversation, not as a stereotyped joke.
• Do not whistle to get an attention which is considered rude.
• Do not buy jewellery from people on the street, as you are more likely to get the fake stuff.

 Colombia Travel Dos

• Do buy things from regular stores instead of the expensive specialty stores for tourists, where will charge you more.
•  Do negotiate the price before buying on the street and small stores. Shop more stores for the same item, the differences could be big.
• Do be watchful for thieves and other criminals. Do not trust anyone, not walking alone or be in dark, isolated places. Do not go to cities where you have to go through guerrilla zones.
• Do go to authorised money exchanger store, be careful that you get all the money you exchanged and some of it does not get back into their drawer.
• Do watch out when paying with credit card that they do not add more zeroes later. Do not leave spaces where they could add numbers, write the price in words too.
• Do be alert for fake taxi and be careful not let them take your luggage away.
• Do enjoy the kindness and hospitality of Colombians. It is customary to offer guests black Colombian coffee, well sugared, called tinto.
• Do wear casual clothes, but not shorts if you want to blend in. Formal attire is necessary for exclusive dining and social functions.
• Do be watchful of your surroundings when watch street activities. The street life in Colombia can be fascinating with all kinds of street acts and performances as people try to make a buck.
• Do avoid to talk about homosexuality, as it is not widely accepted or understood, especially by older generations. 

© 2010 traveltaboo.com

Welcome to Argentina!

Argentina, the “Land of Silver” is the second-largest country in South America with a mix of nice and open people of Italian, Spanish, or French decent and their customs and traditions are shaped by the cultures of all those countries. People there are generally very laid-back. The Buenos Aires, the capital, is one of the busiest and most elegant cities in the world which embraces the essence of all that is Argentina. Have an awesome time and wonderful trip to Argentina, but remember to respect the local culture and blend in. The following Argentina travel tips, taboo, dos and donts will help you with any possible culture shock. 

Argentina Travel Taboo

The inverted American “OK” sign is an obscene gesture that means screw you.   

Pouring wine with the left hand while grasping the neck of the bottle is a big no-no. 

Argentina Travel Donts

• Do not make the ‘OK’ sign or give a ‘thumbs up’, which are considered vulgar.
• Do not be offended by Argentines’ open, blunt and direct expressive communication style. That’s just the way they are!
• Do not be offended by Argentine humour which can sometimes be insulting, such as poking fun at your appearance, weight, or attire.
• Do not show up on time to someone’s house for a party in Argentina which is considered rude. Be there 30 to 60 minutes late or even 2 to 3 hours late is normal.
• Do not eat on the street or on public transportation.
• Do not head to a bar until 11.30 pm. The nightlife in Buenos Aires is considered to be among the best in the world.  It’s the city that never sleeps.
• Do not pour wine for others. There is a ritual associated with pouring wine in Argentina.
• Do not expect all banks to cash traveller’s checks. Cash them at your hotel.
• Do not talk about sensitive topics about their relationship with the USA, Brazil or Great Britain, which could evoke strong reactions. Nor discuss the politics or religion.
• Do not yawn which is considered rude. Try to cover your mouth at the very least.
• Do not extend the pinky and index finger while bending the middle and ring finger which means one’s wife is cheating on them.

Argentina Travel Dos

• Do expect a kiss on the cheek for greeting, which is typical greeting form in Argentina, even to a total stranger. The meeting ends with a kiss and a “ciao”.
• Do dress conservative and modest if you want to blend in. Argentina is a very fashion conscious country. Avoid flip-flops.
• Do expect a late dinner in Argentina.  People will usually have dinner at 9pm or 10pm.
• Do tip 10% at restaurants and one peso per bag to hotel porters.
• Do bring a gift for your hosts, such as flowers, candy, pastries, chocolate, or imported liquor. If receive a gift, open it right away and show your gratitude.
• Do show up between thirty to sixty minutes late if invited to a party.  Showing up on time is considered impolite!
• Do try yerba mate, which is a national drink and a cultural ritual as well. The mate is passed clockwise and shared as a sign of friendship and acceptance.
• Do have a coffee at the famous Cafe Tortoni in Buenos Aires which is patronized by celebrities since 1858.
• Do learn to dance the tango or at least watch others dance it. Dress nicely, no jeans, sneakers, or other casual attire.
• Do carry enough one and five-peso notes, as few stores have change for bills over 20, as one and five cent pieces are not in circulation, and taxis never have change for anything over a 10.
• Do go to the post office to mail letters or postcards, not the mail box. And do not mail things that are important as the Argentine postal service is unreliable.
   

© 2010 traveltaboo.com

Welcome to Maylaysia!

Malaysia is one of the colourful countries of South Asia, which is renowned for its diverse culture and is fast becoming one of the hottest tourist destinations of South Asia. The country boasts of a heterogeneous society with indigenous people of Malaysia as well as citizens of Indian and Chinese origins. The influence of European, Arab, Persian, and also British Empire, made Malaysia a truly multicultural culture that is rich in variety and truly global.  Although Malaysia is generally a laid back and relaxed place, and people of Malaysia are quite friendly, they do reserve their own customs and the visitors should try to observe these practices when they arrive. The following Malaysia travel tips, taboos, dos and donts would surely make your Malaysia tourism an enjoyable lifetime experience.

Malaysia Travel Taboo

 Avoid touching or passing object over the top of anyone’s head as it is viewed as the most sacred body part.

 A woman should never touch or hand a monk something. Even accidentally brushing against their robes requires that they fast and perform a cleansing ritual.

Malaysia Travel Donts

• Do not touch the head of an adult. Touching people on the head is considered rude.
• Do not point forefinger at things. Instead, the thumb of the right hand with four fingers folded under is the preferred way.
• Do not pound your fist into the palm of the other hand, which is considered an obscene gesture to some people. 
• Do not point your feet towards people or sacred images.
• Do not wear hot pants and vests at mainland beaches if you are female. Topless sunbathing is a no-no. Malay women usually go swimming fully dressed and some keep their scarves on.
• Do not kiss in public. Public behaviour is important in Malaysian culture. Most Malaysians refrain from displaying affection such as embracing or kissing in public.
• Do not ever touch or hand a monk something if you are a woman. Even accidentally brushing against their robes requires that they fast and perform a cleansing ritual.
• Do not be offended if your offer of a handshake is not reciprocated by a Muslim who is of the opposite sex. In Islam, physical contact between the opposite sex is discouraged.
• Do not be embarrassed for burping. In Malay dining etiquette, burping or belching after a meal is acceptable.
• Do not discuss ethnic relations or the political system. They are both sensitive subjects.
• Do not drink alcohol. The country’s large Muslim population does not drink alcohol.
• Do not ever involve in illegal drugs. There is a mandatory death penalty for trafficking.  

Malaysia Travel Dos

• Do shake hand with men for greeting, but not women unless they offer to do so first. The traditional greeting or salam resembles a handshake with both hands but without the grasp. People greet visitors by placing their right hand over the left chest to mean I greet you from my heart.
• Do remove your shoes before entering a Malaysian home or temples and mosques. It is customary to remove and leave footwear outside the house. This practice is also applicable when visiting religious buildings.
• Do use right hand to receive or give something. The right hand should also be used for eating. It is considered discourteous in Malay custom to use your left hand when you hand over or receive things.
• Do carry essential travel documents and have your health insurance and health certificates ready before your travel.
• Do be aware that the cameras, watches, pens, portable radio-cassette players, perfume, cosmetics and lighters are duty-free in Malaysia. If you are bringing in dutiable goods then a deposit is required for temporary importation, which would be refundable on departure.
• Do convert most of your currency in Malaysia. There is restriction of bringing large amounts of ringgit (Malaysia’s currency) into or out of the country.
• Do follow simple rules when visit a Buddha temple. Show respect and remove your hat and shoes, Dress conservatively, no shorts. When sitting, never point your feet at a person or image of Buddha. Stand up to show respect when monks or nuns enter.
• Do enter the shrine with your left foot first, and exit by leading with your right foot. This gesture symbolically represents a whole.

© 2010 traveltabo.com

Welcome to Germany!

Germany is a great country, famous for the cars, beer and remarkable history, best known as the land of thinkers and poets, although there are many clichés about the Germans’ punctuality, thoroughness, reserve and lack of humor. Travelling to a foreign country is always an experience. The Germans are known for their culture and etiquette, there are customs and behaviors that differ from those common at home. Do be prepared for culture shock, but by bearing in mind the following Germany travel tips, do’s and don’t, you will be better prepared for your trip to Germany. To avoid troubles, then check in advance.

 Germany Travel Taboo

Using the signs of “Nazi salute”, shout “Heil Hitler”, or show swastikas or other symbols of the Third Reich is a criminal offense and punishable up to five years imprisonment. 

Making a circular motion using the index finger while pointing to the side of one’s head is a rude gesture indicating that someone is crazy or deranged.

Germany Travel Donts

• Do not be late. Germans attach great importance to punctuality. You will win their favor if you keep your appointment on time!
• Do not wait to be seated at a German restaurant. It is common to share tables with a stranger.
• Do not ever, under any circumstances, show the “Nazi salute”, shout “Heil Hitler”, or show swastikas or other symbols of the Third Reich, which is a criminal offense.
• Do not get drunk. Public drunkenness is frowned upon.
• Do not put your elbows on the table when eating. Put only your hands on the table.
• Do not jaywalk. Nobody else does, and you might get fined.
• Do not eat with your fingers.
• Do not ever ask for tap water at a restaurant, which will be equated with stinginess.

Germany Travel Dos

• Do be on time. Germans are extremely punctual, so be on time for your appointment.
• Do shake hands with everyone including children, say “Guten Tag” (good day), “not how are you!” and keep eye contact when greet somebody. Shaking hands is the established form of greeting in Germany.
• Do use title and last name to address people. Say Herr (Mr) or Frau (Mrs.) and use the formal pronoun “du” when talking to elderly people.
• Do be formal. Dress formally for business functions. No shorts and extremely casual wear. Ladies do not wear flashy jewellery and accessories.
• Do learn a few common German before you travel to Germany. Germans
• Do have proper medical insurance when visiting Germany. Medical care is expensive, get health insurance especially when you stay longer.
• Do remove your shoes before enter a German house, and present the hostess with a bunch of flowers, but do not give carnations (symbolize mourning) or lilies or chrysanthemums (used at funerals). Yellow or tea roses are always well received.
• Do say ‘Guten Appetit’ (good appetite) before eating, and say ‘Prost’ (cheers) before you sip your beer. Keep your hands but not your elbows on the table.
• Do feel free to have serious discussions on politics and philosophy. They do not like idle chit-chat.
• Do have cash with you. Cash is king in Germany, and many restaurants don’t take credit cards.
• Do tip. It is customary to leave a tip of 5-10% at a restaurant or pub if the service was good, and leave a larger tip around Christmastime.
• Do be aware that some women may bathe topless or even full nudity at the beach.  The nude beaches are labelled with “FKK” for “Freikörperkultur” which means free body culture.

© 2010 traveltaboo.com

Welcome to New Zealand!

New Zealand is one of the cleanest and greenest countries with unique land of breathtaking scenery from craggy coastlines to golden beaches, lush rainforests to snow-capped mountains and bubbling volcanic pools, with equally thriving indigenous Maori culture. New Zealanders are generally very relaxed and hospitable. Respect those in New Zealand; learn the country’s culture and travel dos and donts will help you to blend in on your trip to New Zealand and make a wealth of thrilling experiences.

New Zealand Travel Taboo

Burial grounds were taboo; and in New Zealand a canoe which had carried a corpse was never afterwards used, but was drawn on shore and painted red.

New Zealand Travel Donts

• Do not smoke. Smoking is banned in pubs and restaurants as well as on public transport or in public buildings.
• Do not overstay your welcome.
• Do not tip, which is not customary in New Zealand. However, do tip if the services are outstanding.
• Do not make the “V for Victory” sign.
• Do not eat food until it has been blessed in Maori.
• Do not be late for an appointment, nor to make promises which you can’t keep or make exaggerated claims.
• Do not stand in the middle of the road and hold up traffic when taking pictures, watch out for cars.
• Do not wrap your gifts in red. Red is the taboo color in New Zealand.
• Do not touch the head and hair of others, especially of a chief, which are particularly taboo or sacred; to touch a man’s head is a gross insult.

New Zealand Travel Dos

• Do shake hands for greeting and keep eye contact during greetings. The first name is used after introductions.
• Do respect and enjoy the company of fellow members.
• Do dress conservatively and formally for business occasions. Dark suits with a conservative tie and white shirt for men. Suits, dresses, or skirts and blouses for women. Wear casual attire for informal occasions.
• Do open your gift upon receipt, and give gifts such as flowers, chocolate, liquor, or a book about your home country.
• Do bring your own beer (B.Y.O.) if invited to a barbecue. You may also be invited to bring your own meat or a salad.
• Do visit a marae, which is a sacred place that serves both social and religious purposes in Maori society. Do follow the lead for the protocol of welcoming and greeting in Maori.
• Do keep your hands above the table, but don’t put your elbows on the table. Put your fork and knife parallel on the plate with the handles facing to the right when you are done eating.
• Do understand that the word “kiwi” is not an offensive name when referring to New Zealanders. They will call themselves kiwis, too!

© 2010 traveltaboo.com

Welcome to Mexico!

Mexico is a fascinating country, rich in traditions, history, art and religion, proud of beautiful beaches and historical cities from the time of the Spanish colony and archeological sites of cultures such as the Maya, Olmeca and Azteca among others. Mexico is a diverse country bursting with life. Traveling to Mexico can be a fantastic experience, but it is important for visitors to be aware that the rules and customs are rather different than at home. The more a visitor understands this, the more enjoyable the visit to Mexico will be. Go with the flow, but be conservative in your behavior and bear in mind the following Mexico travel tips, dos and donts to insure that your trip to Mexico is a more enjoyable one!

Mexico Travel Taboo

Saying “no” is a no-no in Mexico, people rarely use this word. Instead just say “yes”

Mexico Travel Donts

• Do not use words “No”, or “I don’t know”, as saying “no” is a no-no in Mexico, they feel betrayed, unsupportive and rude. So use the hedge words, or find excuses and say “thank you” over and over again.
• Do not bring drugs to Mexico. The repercussions of getting caught with drugs in Mexico can stuck you in a Mexican jail.
• Do not drive without liability insurance. The law requires you to have minimum liability insurance for driving in Mexico.
• Do not be on time for home visit. Showing up early or on time is considered rude. Arriving about 30 minutes late is appropriate. However, in business, it’s smart to be on time, even if you are kept waiting by your Mexican business associates.
• Do not wear shorts if you wish to blend in. Aside from beaches and northern areas, shorts are seldom worn by Mexicans.
• Do not drink water from the tap. The drinking water in Mexico is not drinkable. Buy bottled purified water to drink.
• Do not wear expensive, extravagant clothing, jewelry and take large sums of money.
• Do not go to a timeshare presentation unless you are really interested in. Be aware of Mexican Timeshare Fraud.
• Do not wear t-shirts or flip-flops in business. Dress smart for business. A suit and tie for men, and conservative dresses for women.

Mexico Travel Dos

• Do learn a few Spanish phrases before you go. Do say “salud!” when someone sneezes. To not do so is considered rude.
• Do lock your passport, cash, and credit cards in a hotel safe. Do practice general safety precautions from being targeted by thieves and pickpockets.
• Do photocopy your passport and leave one copy with family or friends at home and pack a second copy to take with you, making sure it is in a separate suitcase from your original passport.
• Do shake hands upon meeting someone. Hugs are often shared among friends, as well as a light kiss on the cheek for women.
• Do bring small denomination currency. U.S. dollars are accepted throughout the country, having plenty of $1′s, $5′s and $10′s is the perfect way to pay for goods and services in Mexico.
• Do be patient and moderate your expectations, the mañana attitude still prevail to some degree in Mexico.
• Do put sun cream before going out. The sun is very strong in Mexico, so use sunscreen on any exposed skin, even if you’re not on the beach. Use waterproof sun creams in pool or beach.
• Do take off sunglasses and hats if entering a church.
• Do rest your wrists on the edge of the table while dining. Do understand that only men give toasts in Mexican culture.
• Do leave a little bit of food on your plate when you are done, and indicate that you are finished eating by putting your knife and fork across your plate with the prongs going downwards and the handles facing right.
• Do tip with 10% – 20% of service charge.
• Do open a gift upon receipt. Do bring flowers or sweets for your host, but do not give red flowers or marigolds. White flowers make a nice gift.
• Do be fashionably late! Thirty minutes late is appropriate. Arriving early or even on time is considered rude.

© 2010 traveltaboo.com

Welcome to Singapore!

Singapore is one of the most popular and vibrant destination in Asia with its renowned clean and beautiful garden city and unique cultural diffusion of Chinese, Malay, Indian and European immigrants. Singapore is a very clean, safe and efficient city due to the strictly enforced laws. But diverse racial groups in Singapore retained its own cultural and religious identity including Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam and Taoism, which can cause confusion and sometimes conflicts, for example, gift giving etiquette varies depending on the ethnic background of the individual. So bearing in mind of the following Singapore travel tips, dos and donts will help you enjoy the diverse and rich culture of Singapore and be a part of its enriching experience.

Singapore Travel Taboo

Laws relating to jaywalking, littering and chewing/selling gum, smoking in public are strictly enforced in urban areas. Never litter, chew gum, sell gum, jaywalk, or smoke in public, which are punishable by jail or even death.

Singapore Travel Donts

• Do not chew gums, which are banned in Singapore and may get you arrested. Leave it home before you travel.
• Do not litter while in Singapore. Laws are strictly enforced relating to littering.
• Do not smoke in public. Smoking is illegal in enclosed public places (including restaurants). Dropping a cigarette end in the street or smoking illegally can lead to an immediate fine.
• Do not get involved in any drugs. Singapore carries a mandatory death penalty for drug-trafficking and harsh penalties for possession and use within the country.
• Do not discuss religion or politics. Do not make jokes either.
• Do not touch someone’s head. The head is considered sacred.
• Do not show the bottoms of your feet or use your feet to point. Feet are considered dirty.
• Do not bring in food into MRT (Mass Rapid Transport). Offenders will be fined up to S$200.
• Do not point at someone with your index finger, which is considered very rude.
• Do not take cabs which are very expensive in Singapore. The Singapore transportation system is exceptionally well planned.
• Do not eat or offer anything with your left hand when with Muslims and do not use your left hand when shaking hands with a Muslim.
• Do not tip. Tipping is not customary in Singapore and it’s even frowned down upon by the government.
• Do not open a gift immediately in front of the giver. Do not wrap gifts in white, which is a mourning color.
• Do not, for a Chinese descent, give clocks, handkerchiefs or flowers to as they are associated with death and funerals. Do not accept a gift immediately; refuse a gift two to three times before accepting to show that you’re not greedy.
• Do not, for a Malay descent, give alcohol, or anything made of pigskin, as Malays are Muslim. Give the gift upon departing, not arriving, and use your right hand or both hands to give or receive presents. Never use only left hand.
• Do not, for an Indian descent, give alcohol or something made of leather. Use your right hand to give or receive presents and not your left. If it’s large, you may use both hands.

Singapore Travel Dos

• Do address someone using the title of Mr., Mrs. or Miss with the surname. Do not use first names unless you are invited to.
• Do shake hands for a warm greeting, but be aware that Malays will not always shake hands. Muslims will not shake hands with the opposite sex. Do give a slight bow for older Chinese people.
• Do remove your shoes while entering a private home, a temple or a mosque.
• Do leave a little on the plate when you have finished eating.
• Do be conservative in your behavior. Dress conservatively for business functions and dress casual in other situations.
• Do have coins with you when you need to use the public toilet.
• Do stay on the left side of the escalator. The right lane is for all those people in a rush. Do drive on the left hand side too.
• Do have some handy cash ready to use. Do not rely on your credit cards.

© 2010 traveltaboo.com

Welcome to Canada!

Canada is a land of diversity, renowned for its stunningly natural beautiful scenery from its large cosmopolitan cities to its frozen northern tundra; its snowy mountain peaks to its rugged coastlines; and its rich farmlands to its pioneering outposts. The vast, untouched landscape, unique blend of cultures and multifaceted history make Canada one of the most exciting travel destinations in the world. Canada boasts a wide, diverse culture, and has a French and British colonial heritage, which is reflected in its cuisine, culture and customs, mixed in with the legacy of the country’s own enigmatic aboriginal First Nations history. The Canadians take pride in their history and pleasure in the beauty of their land. As John Buchan, writer and Governor-General of Canada, said, “You have to know a man awfully well in Canada to know his surname.” So it’s important to be aware the local laws and penalties, make sure you learn the following Canada travel tips on dos and donts before you travel to ensure the most of your precious time in this vast Continent.

Canada Travel Taboo

 Drinking alcohol in public is prohibited by law in all of Canada. 

Canada Travel Donts

• Do not drink in public. Drinking alcohol in public is prohibited by law in all of Canada.
• Do not smoke in British Columbia, smoking is banned on all public transport, in public buildings, including restaurants and bars, and workplaces.
• Do not get into a taxi without noting the cab number and the name of the driver.
• Do not buy something from a person who offers you a great deal on the street, especially if you have to follow them somewhere.
• Do not carry parcels, gifts or luggage for other people across borders or through customs under any circumstances.
• Do not false display, sit on the Canadian flag or spill your dinner on it. The Canadians take a hearty sense of national pride on their flag which should never be shown indignity or be displayed in an inferior manner.

Canada Travel Dos

• Do bear in mind that the temperatures of Canada range from plus 40°C in summer to minus 40°C in the winter, so dress accordingly!
• Do bring an electrical converter for your electrical appliances if they operate rather on a different voltage than 110 volt electrical systems at 60 hertz as in Canada. Mains wall sockets and plugs are two parallel flat blades.
• Do tipping. Like the USA, in Canada it is customary to tip 10% to 20% for services such as restaurants, bars and pubs, taxis and hairdressers. Always check whether a service charge was included in a restaurant bill, especially if paying by credit card.
• Do respect wildlife laws and to maintain a safe and legal distance when observing wildlife.
• and visit Riding Mountain National Park for Bear Watching, Whale Watching and Wildlife Viewing.
• Do find out if your medications are legal in Canada if you under prescription drugs. Carry a note from your doctor clearly explaining the medical reasons for your prescriptions.
• Do choose your travel companions wisely. If your fellow travellers happen to be carrying, using or selling illegal drugs, you could be found guilty by association.
• Do follow the rules of etiquette for displaying the Canadian flag and give the Canadian flag prominence honour.
• Do keep your valuables in hotel safe. Petty crime such as pick pocketing and street theft can occur at tourist destinations, hotels and on public transport. Expensive watches, jewellery and cameras may be tempting targets for thieves.
• Do excise cautions while travelling in Canada. Heavy snowfalls and ice in the winter can make driving dangerous. The wind-chill factor can also create dangerously cold outdoor conditions beyond the thermometer reading.
• Do be aware of earthquakes in Canada. The province of British Columbia in western Canada is in an active earthquake zone.
• Do be mindful of safety. Some mountainous areas of Alberta and British Columbia are subject to winter avalanches. Tornadoes can occur in some areas of Canada between May and September.
• Do make sure you have health insurance to pay your medical costs if necessary. Canada does not pay for hospital or medical services for visitors.
• Do make two photocopies of valuables such as passport, tickets, visas and travellers’ cheques. Keep one copy with you in a separate place to the original and leave another copy with someone at home.

You can find more comprehensive information of Canada travel tips by visiting www.travel.gc.ca developed by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada.

© 2010 traveltaboo.com