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Planning Europe travel in 2026 No more Schengen visa stamps, stickers on your passports - here's why
Lifestyletravel

Planning Europe travel in 2026? No more Schengen visa stamps, stickers on your passports – here’s why

Two major changes are poised to reshape how travellers, including Indian nationals, enter Europe

If you’re planning a European trip in 2026, your Schengen visa may no longer come as a sticker in your passport. Instead, it could arrive as a secure barcode, part of a sweeping digital overhaul that aims to simplify travel to the EU. And that’s just one of the changes underway.

Two major changes are poised to reshape how travellers, including Indian nationals, enter Europe: the digital Schengen visa system and a proposed flexible pan-European tourist visa.

Digital Schengen visa: What’s coming first

The EU is already in motion. In a quiet test run earlier this year, France issued 70,000 digital Schengen visas for visitors attending the 2024 Paris Olympics. Instead of a sticker, recipients got a digital barcode. That trial is now a blueprint for the continent.

By 2026, travellers will be able to:

  • Upload documents
  • Pay visa fees online
  • Track application status
  • Receive a digitally signed barcode visa

Note: First-time applicants or those with outdated biometric data will still need a one-time in-person visit. But for frequent travellers, renewals will be faster and more seamless.

The system is expected to be fully operational across all EU member states by 2028.

EES and ETIAS: Border upgrades on the way

In parallel, two new digital border control systems are on the horizon:

  • EES (Entry/Exit System) launches in October 2025, replacing passport stamps with biometric checks like facial scans and fingerprints.
  • ETIAS, due by the end of 2026, will require visa-free travellers to apply online before entering Europe, similar to the U.S. ESTA.

Both are designed to make border crossings more secure and efficient without altering visa rules for most UAE residents.

Flexible pan-European visa: Still in discussion

While digitalisation moves ahead, some EU nations, led by Greece, Italy, and France, are pushing for a “European tourist visa” that would:

  • Make travel across multiple EU countries simpler
  • Reduce red tape
  • Possibly include both Schengen and non-Schengen countries

Italy’s Jubilee visa for 2025 pilgrims and Greece’s active lobbying are early signs of momentum. However, this idea still lacks formal EU backing and would require years of legal coordination.

Why Indian and UAE travellers should care

For now, the digital Schengen visa will have the most immediate impact:

  • Fewer physical documents
  • No more passport stickers
  • Biometric e-gate access
  • Streamlined renewals for frequent visitors
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World's Most Beautiful Restaurants Of 2025, As Selected By Prix Versailles
Lifestyletravel

World’s Most Beautiful Restaurants Of 2025, As Selected By Prix Versailles

The 2025 list of the most beautiful restaurants in the world by Prix Versailles reveals how design and dining need to go hand-in-hand.

Some time ago, Prix Versailles (an annual award series in the architectural and design domain) released its list of the World’s Most Beautiful Restaurants for 2025. This selection shines a spotlight on 16 dining spaces that go beyond gastronomy and service – they prove how architecture, artistry, and ambience are equally integral to the experience. These restaurants are not ranked but recognised for the ways in which they have merged aesthetic sensibilities with the spirit of their surroundings. This year’s selection includes destinations across the globe – from New York to Riyadh, Paris to Shanghai. In December, three of these restaurants will go on to receive World titles. As per Prix Versailles, these awards aim to “promote intelligent sustainability, in which culture serves and transcends the notion of the environment.”

Here Are The 16 Most Beautiful Restaurants In The World, As Per Prix Versailles

1. Gerbou in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Located in Nad Al Sheba, Gerbou celebrates both the elegance of modernity and the essence of traditional Emirati hospitality. The space is designed by Kristina Zanic Consultants with Tasmeem Tashkeel. It features elements like fish-scale lighting and camel leather sofas. All of them are crafted with materials native to the region. The interior mirrors the kitchen’s philosophy: 70% of ingredients are locally sourced. The dishes by Chef Ionel Catau are a reflection of ancestral respect and contemporary flair.

2. Smoked Room in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Chef Dani Garcia’s Smoked Room offers a dark, immersive environment marked by dramatic lighting and textures that mimic fire and metal. Designed by Astet Studio, it boasts an open-flame “Omakase” dining zone, where guests witness each course in the making. Various theatrical elements make the experience unforgettable. There’s also a separate dessert room with Japanese-inspired detailing.

3. Blackswan in Beijing, China

Situated inside the Luo Hong Art Museum, Blackswan is a poetic tribute to its namesake. The interior design, by Chris Shao Studio, is inspired by the ethereal beauty of swans. There’s a lakeside garden view and a cascading feather chandelier by Caroline Sarkozy. The French delicacies by Chef Vianney Massot are served in a monochromatic, graceful space that evokes serenity.

4. Ortensia in Shanghai, China

Ortensia is a product of Japanese, French, and Chinese cultural influences. Located in Shanghai’s Zhangyuan district, it combines shikumen architecture with French elegance and Japanese subtlety. Chris Shao Studio has used rustic tiles, lacquer, and carved woodwork to elevate the ambience. This creates a whimsical environment to match its refined fusion menu.

5. Lobster Club in Palma de Mallorca, Spain

On the shores of Mallorca, Lobster Club aims to capture Mediterranean energy in a contemporary sea club setting. Designed by Sandra Tarruella, the open-plan venue centres around a bar and infinity pool. Materials like iroko wood and glazed tiles support the relaxing vibe of sun-drenched days. It’s a wonderful space that brings together dining, music and seafront relaxation.

6. Bouchon Careme in Helsinki, Finland

Located in a century-old building, this Helsinki restaurant pays homage to the Lyonnaise bouchon in its own way. It reinterprets French tradition with Finnish warmth. Studio Fyra preserved key elements like exposed brick and iron columns while allowing daylight to shine through large arched windows. Chef Hans Valimaki’s menu of hearty meat and vegetable dishes is complemented by the rustic yet refined design.

7. Laduree Rue Royale in Paris, France

Laduree’s historic tea room on Rue Royale has been restored to its original 1862 grandeur. Decorator Cordelia de Castellane has introduced pastel hues, Belle Epoque ceilings, and ornate mouldings that evoke 18th-century Paris. Each salon, from Chantilly to Napoleon, offers a dreamlike escape. The design leaves no room for doubt – this establishment is indeed a culinary and cultural landmark.

8. Ducasse Baccarat in Paris, France

This restaurant is housed in the former residence of Marie-Laure de Noailles. It is a Parisian gem that unites the culinary mastery of Chef Alain Ducasse with the elegance of Baccarat crystal. Alienor Bechu’s interiors feature raw materials and curated artworks, creating an ambience where history and innovation meet beneath shimmering chandeliers.

9. Julie’s in London, United Kingdom

In the heart of Notting Hill, Julie’s has long been a haven for artists and even royalty. The revamped space by Rosanna Bossom and owner Tara MacBain honours the original 1969 glamour with rich 1970s motifs, layered illustrations, and a lush alfresco terrace. The result is a sophisticated yet playful tribute to West London’s creative legacy.

10. Shell in Nusa Penida, Indonesia

Perched above Diamond Beach, Shell exemplifies biomimicry in design. Pablo Luna Studio used bamboo and rammed earth to create a cavernous, shell-shaped structure that’s as functional as it is poetic. Passive cooling and recycled materials make this eco-conscious retreat nearly self-sufficient. It’s an architectural homage to nature and sustainability.

11. Coro in Orvieto, Italy

Set inside a deconsecrated 16th-century church, Coro balances sacred architecture with modern culinary artistry. While working on its restoration, Architect Giuliano Andrea dell’Uva preserved its tuff stone walls and altar remains. Chef Ronald Bukri’s dishes and the serene service reflect this sense of worship. The result is a quiet, contemplative space grounded in Umbrian tradition.

12. Seven Island in Busan, South Korea

Built across seven pavilions on Gadeokdo Island, this cafe looks out onto the ocean and seven surrounding isles. Designed by mttb, the minimalist structures contrast dark, earthy tones below with brighter hues above. The objective is that the space should echo the natural play of light and water. The layout offers varied perspectives of the sea, creating a deep sense of place.

13. Kimyona in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

A speakeasy with a twist- Kimyona hides behind a gallery-like entrance and leads into a dim dining space inspired by darkrooms and analogue photography. Designed by Azaz Architects, the interiors use ceramic tiles, reclaimed materials, and steel to combine minimalism and intrigue. The menu features forgotten and reinvented Asian delicacies.

14. Another Smith in Tha Sai Luat, Thailand

This family-run restaurant draws from Chinese architecture and bamboo construction for its design. It houses three spaces: dining room, cafe, and jewellery boutique. Thor Kaichon and TasteSpace have worked together to create bright, open interiors anchored by a central kitchen. Emblems inspired by Chinese family seals bring a heritage touch to the contemporary setting.

15. Beefbar in New York, United States

Making its U.S. debut in Tribeca, Monte Carlo’s Beefbar channels European elegance as well as Manhattan’s industrial charm. Humbert & Poyet’s design features tall arched windows, Art Deco lines, and a medley of marble, terrazzo, and textile layers. The result is a lush and modern steakhouse that reflects the multicultural fabric of New York.

16. Japon in Miami Beach, United States

Japon flips the script on minimalism, embracing the colourful spirit of Miami. This restaurant was established by Chefs Vijayudu Veena and Ivan Monzon. Saladino Design Studios filled the space with crane motifs (a symbol of luck, natural beauty and elegance in Japanese culture) from mosaic tiles to wallpaper. Inside, gold-leaf ceilings, vintage woodblock art, and a pagoda patio celebrate the richness of Japanese cuisine and tradition with a vibrant, tropical twist.

The 2025 Prix Versailles restaurant list reveals how design and dining need to go hand-in-hand. Aligning both requires creativity, vision and daring.

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My 7 top tips for planning the perfect photography trip to Easter Island
photographytravel

My 7 top tips for planning the perfect photography trip to Easter Island

Advice for capturing the magical moai, dramatic coastlines and stunning night skies above the world’s most remote island

What’s 63 square miles in size, 1,200 miles from the nearest landmass and home to over 900 monoliths that line its coast? Easter Island — also called Isla de Pascua and Rapa Nui — is famed worldwide for its moai, giant stone monoliths carved in the 12th and 13th centuries that (mostly) gaze inwards from its rocky coast. Capturing the moai is what photographers flock here for, of course, but there are a few things you need to know if you’re to get anything special. Plus, with a fabulous coastline, plenty of petroglyphs and dark skies, there are many other reasons to spend a week here on a photographic safari like no other.

Here’s everything you need to know about photographing Easter Island…

1. Understand Easter Island

The moai of Easter Island comes in three parts: ahu-moai-topknot (platform-monolith-headress). They represent ancestors and are found on the coast, with the remains of villages surrounding them. There are canoe-shaped boat houses, the remains of buildings, caves and petroglyphs near to them. By the 17th century, all of the moai had been toppled during a civil war between seven clans, and that’s how almost all of them remained. The ahu platforms were used to make buildings.

So the iconic ahu and moai you see in photographs have all been refurbished, mostly in the 1970s and 1980s. They are:

Tongariki — 15 moai on the east coast.

Anakena Beach — two ahus with eight moai statues on the north coast.

Ahu Akivi — seven moai facing the sea just north of Hanga Roa.

2. Time it right at Rano Raraku

Easter Island is famous for its ahu and moai, but the images you see most are of the “sunken heads” at Rano Raraku. However, there are 900 moai on the island, and only about 200 ever made it to Ahu at the coast. The vast majority appear to have been broken and/or abandoned in or near Rano Raraku, where the monoliths were carved from the basalt of a dormant volcano. However, almost all of the moai on the slopes — through which a path winds — face south. That makes it a poor choice at lunchtime when the sun is in the northern sky and behind the moai. Unless you mainly want silhouettes, either come early in the day or late in the afternoon.

Don’t forget to get close-ups of the moai’s tattoos, arms, ears, and other peculiar features that tend to be overshadowed in photographs by the vast rectangular faces.

3. Plan it in advance

There are four things you need to visit Easter Island: funds, planning, an understanding of risk, and an appreciation of “island life.” With everything shipped in, everyday items are expensive, and even basic rooms go for a few hundred dollars a night. We’re talking basic rooms, nothing high-end, with accommodation only available in low-rise Hanga Roa and split between low-key resorts, hostels and Airbnbs. The key factor, however, is the LATAM flight from Santiago, Chile, which is presently the only way of reaching the island. Book it a year in advance and expect to pay somewhere in the region of $460/£350 for a return flight. There’s typically only one flight a day, and bad weather can frequently cause delays and cancellations, so have contingency plans … and expensive travel insurance.

4. Sunrise at Tongariki

The classic photography experience for most visitors to Easter Island is sunrise at Tongariki, an ahu refurbished with help from the Japanese government. Here, 15 moai of varying heights are lined up with a rocky coastline and cliffs to the north. It’s a beautiful place, and since it’s on an east-facing coast, the sun rises behind the moai each morning. You can book a tour but arrive only minutes before sunrise. You’ll miss the colors beforehand, and you’ll also have a lot of other people to compete with. It’s, therefore, better to come here alone, about an hour before sunrise, to get the full impact. You won’t be able to enter the monument’s grounds, but it makes no difference if you have a 100mm or larger lens. Find a place beside the perimeter stone wall – only a few feet tall – and stand well clear of the cars passing behind you.

5. There are lots of restrictions

A decade ago, Easter Island was free and easy. You could walk up to the ahu and touch the moai if you wished, but that’s no longer true. Now, you must have a Rapa Nui National Park pass to enter any of the 13 official protected archaeological sites. You also have to visit these sites with a guide, though it can be a private guide and not necessarily a large bus tour (there are no coaches here, just a fleet of minibusses). No ticket and no guide, no entry.

That said, Easter Island is perfect for renting a car to explore on your own but don’t do it straight away. Since you must visit the 13 archaeological sites with a guide, first take a tour with a guide — preferably a private excursion — and ask for advice on the best places to visit in the following days. The roads are dirt and pot-holed, but they’re relatively easy to drive on, partly because they’re quiet.

6. Night photography at Tongariki

The Southern Hemisphere night sky is spectacular, largely because it’s possible to see the galaxy’s bright core. On Easter Island, a vast and bright Milky Way arcs across the night sky between April and November.

Although it is possible to do stargazing evenings by minibus, they don’t include astrophotography nor tend to take place in particularly picturesque locations where moai are on display. As well as being a great place to photograph the sunrise, Tongariki is an excellent location for night photography, not only because you can get the ahu and moai in the shot but also because it has a good view of the Ranu Raraku volcano to the west. The only issue with Tongariki at night is a harbor light behind it that flashes on and off every few seconds. Find a position outside the wall where a distant tree partially blocks the harbor light (you’ll find it eventually!), and it’s a far less serious issue.

7. Don’t forget Ranu Kau

It’s oddly not on many tours of the island, but one of the most dramatic locations from a landscape photography point of view is Ranu Kau, a lagoon in a volcanic caldera. It’s a short drive from Hanga Roa in the island’s southwest. There are a couple of pullouts: Mirador Hanga Roa overlooks the entire island to the north, and Mirador Rano Kao gives a view of the caldera, part of a steep and precarious cliff. Up here, there are interesting possibilities for landscape photography, and with the island’s landmass blocking the prevailing wind, there are good prospects of a clear sky. A wide-angle lens is a must.

At the end of the road to Rano Kao is the stone village of Orongo, an interesting place in itself and also home to the “birdman cult,” during which Rapa Nui men had to swim out to one of the three tiny islands offshore to fetch an egg from the sooty tern, and return them unscathed, to become king.

A dramatic photo with a dramatic story behind it is what Easter Island is all about; there’s much more here than moai.

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11 Things to Know Before Traveling to Canada
travel

11 Things to Know Before Traveling to Canada

Essential tips for travelers headed to Canada for the first time.

Canada is the second-largest country in the world (after Russia) and offers a stunning array of varied landscapes, experiences, and sites for visitors. Canadians are proud of their beautiful home and are internationally known to be friendly to travelers. It is also an incredibly diverse country. In addition to the two official languages, English and French, over 70 indigenous languages are spoken across the provinces and territories. Additionally, many immigrant communities impact language use. For instance, you’ll see Chinese characters all over parts of British Columbia, as well as Spanish, Arabic, Punjabi, and more in different communities. Immigration also adds to amazing multicultural food scenes in Canadian cities.

It is home to some of the most iconic national parks in the world. Ski and hike Banff or check out the bison-filled prairie provinces before kayaking fjords in Québec. Further north in Nunavut, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories, you can chase northern lights without paying Scandinavian prices. Love unique events? Check out skijoring (skiers pulled by a horse and rider) or the annual stampede in Calgary. Every summer, the festival city of Montréal hosts the Montréal International Jazz Festival, POP Montreal, and more. Winnipeg Folklife is not to be missed, and neither is the Atlantic Film Festival in Halifax. No matter what your interests are, Canada makes for a wonderful destination.

Documents and Visas You Might Need

All travelers must have a valid travel document before entering Canada, typically a passport issued by their country of citizenship. Some nationalities may need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering or transiting through Canada. Other nationalities may need to apply for a visa in person at a Canadian Embassy abroad. The Government of Canada has a page that can help determine your case.

No visa or ETA is required for stays under six months for U.S. citizens. Present a passport, an Enhanced Driver’s License, or a NEXUS pass at the border. U.S. permanent residents will need to present a passport from their country of citizenship as well as their U.S. Permanent Residence (Green). More information can be found on the Government of Canada’s website.

Currency and the Cost of Things

Canada uses the Canadian dollar in all 13 provinces and territories. Cash and cards are accepted at most vendors. Make sure to alert your bank before travel to avoid holds.

The cost of travel in Canada is not cheap and is comparable to the U.S., with a bit of a discount or upcharge depending on the current exchange rate. Expect to pay at least a couple of hundred dollars for domestic flights and train tickets, a minimum of $100 a night for hotels in major Canadian cities, and $20-60 for a restaurant meal. Gas is often more expensive than American pricing. If you travel to more remote parts of the country, expect prices to increase.

Transportation in Canada and Transport Tips

A car is best for short to medium distances within or to a neighboring province or territory. For travel across the country, take domestic flights via Air Canada or WestJet. These can drastically increase the cost of your trip, so factor that in when planning an itinerary. ViaRail, Canada’s national train carrier, is a great alternative to flying. The prices aren’t necessarily better, but it’s kinder to the environment and a fun way to see more of the country.

Major cities such as Vancouver, Toronto, and Montréal have robust public transportation options. Bus routes, metros/subway lines, streetcars, and rideshare apps can easily help you get around sans a rental car. Rent a one-day vehicle for day trips such as Niagara Falls from Toronto or Banff from Calgary.

Canadian Cuisine and Eating Culture

Eating culture in Canada is similar to that of the U.S., with a few unique cultural exceptions. Restaurants vary from casual sit-downs to more formal and five-star institutions. Cocktail and dive bars, comfy cafes, and third-wave coffee shops are plentiful. Tipping is standard. You’ll also encounter typical fast-food chains like Starbucks, McDonald’s, and KFC. But Canadians tend to favor their homegrown brands such as Tim Hortons (don’t miss Timbits), Harvey’s, and BeaverTail. There are also plenty of uniquely Canadian dining experiences, such as Cabane au Sucres (Sugar Shacks or maple syrup farms) in Quebec, ice bars in British Columbia, and lobster feeds in Nova Scotia.

Québec is home to a lot of your “typical” Canadian fares such as cheese curds, poutine, Queue de Castor (aka—Beaver Tail, sweet dough with toppings,) and maple syrup. Locals will insist Montreal bagels put New York ones to shame. Other national favorites include Nanaimo Bars (coconut chocolate bars named after the Vancouver Island town), Ketchup chips, and moose meat. On the coasts, the Atlantic provinces have fresh seafood, and Vancouver has an unparalleled dim sum.

When it comes to alcoholic drinks, the drinking age is lower than in the US and varies from province to province. In Québec, Alberta, and Manitoba, the legal drinking age is 18, in the rest of the country, it is 19.

Healthcare and Health Considerations

Canada has national health care for citizens and residents, with high standards of care. As a visitor, you will be able to access care if needed during your visit, but will not be covered under Canadian coverage. That said, out-of-pocket costs are much lower than similar care costs in the U.S.

Travel insurance is recommended for travelers from all countries to help you with coverage should you need it.

As of April 2024, Canada no longer requires proof of Covid-19 vaccination or testing to enter. Depending on where you’re traveling from, you may need to show proof of vaccination against other infectious diseases.

Weather and the Best Seasons for Travel

The Great White North might be best known as the ultimate winter destination, but all provinces and territories enjoy four distinct seasons. The months do vary in each region.

Early fall has plenty of sunny days across the country. From mid-to-late October through November, wind and rain arrive in coastal British Columbia and the Atlantic provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador). Meanwhile, the first snow can fall as early as October in the Rockies, Nunavut, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories.

In winter, Canada’s best-known season brings snow and frigid temps to most provinces and territories. However, some parts of coastal B.C. and the Atlantic provinces stay more temperate and rain filled.

In spring, or mud season as it’s known in many provinces and territories, the thick snow cover begins to melt off and feed rivers, waterfalls, and sometimes, the streets. Starting in mid-March through April, be prepared for traffic deviations for both vehicles and pedestrians as communities remove snow. In summer, one of the best seasons across Canada, prepare for surprisingly warm temps and high humidity in Ontario, Quebec, and coastal B.C.

Packing for Canada

Your packing list for Canada will vary depending on the time of year, your in-country destinations, and planned activities.

Late fall through winter (November through March) is cold. Pack for consistent below-freezing temperatures and snow. Snow boots, or, at the very least, waterproof boots with traction, are a must, as is a good winter jacket that can withstand negative temps. Bring snow pants, long underwear, and waterproof gloves for planned snow sports. Also, don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen regardless of the season. Canada can be shockingly sunny in summer and fall, and in winter, there’s nothing worse than a burn caused by snow reflection.

If you are visiting the Atlantic provinces or coastal British Columbia, pack a decent raincoat, rain boots (or waterproofed boots), and waterproof coverings for your bags. Finally, don’t forget a refillable water bottle and to-go coffee mug. Canada is eco-conscious, and refill stations are plentiful, additionally, many coffee shops offer discounts for customers who bring their own mugs.

Staying Safe in Canada

Canada is considered a safe country and has far less violent crime and gun issues than the U.S. It is a fantastic solo travel destination, particularly for female travelers, and is LGBTQ+-friendly. In large cities like Vancouver and Toronto, use general safety sense; stay aware of your surroundings, take a taxi or rideshare if out late at night alone, and don’t go to secluded areas on your own.

The country’s unmatched nature and national parks are a large draw for many visitors. But take care and prepare for potential encounters with wildlife. Read up on what to do in an encounter with bears, cougars, mountain goats, and more on the Parks Canada website. On hikes and in campgrounds, lock food and trash in bear-safe storage, and NEVER eat in your tent. Keep dogs leashed at all times, stay on the trail, and give animals a wide berth if you cross paths. If you encounter wildlife while driving, remain in your car and allow the animal to pass. When hiking alone, carry a bear bell or something to alert animals to your presence, as well as bear spray. Know your limits in the outdoors and in winter, check avalanche warnings and safety tips.

Key Phrases to Know

Language is unique in Canada due to the two national languages, English and French. You’ll find a lot of crossover slang with English speakers using French words and vice-versa. Here are a few that can puzzle visitors:

Toque (pronounced two-ck), a French word with Breton origins for “hat,” usually referring to a beanie in winter (It’s cold, don’t forget a toque).

Dep, short for dépanneur, the Quebecer word for convenience store. Used in both French and English. (I’m going to the dep, do you need anything? Or, Je vais au dep as-tu besoin quelque chose?)

Loonie, one-dollar coin

Toonie, two-dollar coin

How’s she bootin’er, How’s it going? Used a lot on the Atlantic coast.

Bonjour/hi is a standard greeting in Montreal, giving customers the option for either language in the bilingual city.

French on-road signs will also be common in Québec, Nunavut, and New Brunswick. In Québec, French is often the only language used due to strict language laws. Thus, stop signs usually only say “arrêt” (French for stop), but other than that, look like a standard stop sign. Even if another language is used (such as English), it will be in a much smaller font.

Internet, Wi-fi, and Connectivity

Canada, like the U.S., uses both plug type A and B, two flat parallel pins, with the latter having an anchor port below. The standard voltage is 120 volts at 60 Hertz.

Wi-fi is very good in cities, but in smaller towns, you might have slower connections and spots without much. When driving across the country in rural places, especially national and provincial parks, service can be limited, so make sure to have a paper map.

Many U.S. wireless carriers have international plans that charge a daily fee or a monthly plan to use the same service you’re used to in the US. Otherwise, you can purchase SIM cards from Bell or Rogers or an eSIM from large carriers like Nomad, Jetpac, and Airalo, all of which operate in Canada.

Know Before You Go

Think metric. Sometimes.

If you drive into Canada from the U.S., “Think metric!” signs will greet you for the first few miles (kilometers) across the border. The speed limits posted are in km/h, so 100 is 60 mph, not 100 mph on highways.

You’ll hear the daily temps given in Celsius, however, if using an oven (such as in a vacation rental), it will use Fahrenheit. Gas and drinks are liters and milliliters. When talking about their own height and weight, Canadians use feet/inches and pounds. But, at the grocery store, you’ll weigh produce in kilograms. Time is often used as a measurement for distances and isn’t always accurate, especially in the mountains.

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