Author: Nolan Clack, Guest Blogger.
Most people know Canada as one of the largest countries with cold weather and blankets of snow. Canadians often get told that they are overly polite and friendly. But what about the less known facts about Canada? Here is a list of 12 things you did not know about Canada.
Tap water is of higher quality than bottled water.
Canada holds 9% of the total freshwater resources in the world. So rest assured, when in Canada, you can pour yourself a glass of water from the tap, and it will be cleaner than purchasing a bottle of water.
Most educated country in the world
Canada is amongst the most educated countries in the world. No wonder more than 25,000 students from Vietnam call Canada their home. Given the number of Vietnamese students who study in Canada, there are many Vietnamese communities across the country. The low cost of living and affordable education is a reason why Canada boasts over 642,000 international students.
Almost half of the population in Canada were born in other countries
As of 2020, Canada invites over 400,000 immigrants from around the world to come work and study in Canada. A little over 20% of Canada’s permanent residents are non-Canadian nationals. For this reason, Canada is truly a multicultural country and is eager to have you!
Santa Claus
In the year 2008, Canada’s Immigration Minister had declared Santa Claus, a full Canadian citizen. As a result, residents of Canada can send a letter and wish list to him in any language. Tip: If you leave your name and return address on the envelope, expect to receive a letter back from Santa himself!
National Parks that are larger than some countries
Canada is home to 48 national parks in 30 regions throughout Canada. National parks are so large they account for more landmass than Denmark, Taiwan, Vietnam, Israel, and many more. The amount of nature Canada has to offer is one of the reasons why the country attracts so many tourists from all around the world. Fun fact- the most number of Canadian tourist visas ever issued in one year was a whopping 22.1 million tourist visas!
Canadian folktales
Canada is home to two creatures that are said to live in the Canadian forest and waters. Legend has it; there is a large, hairy, human-like creature that has been roaming around the province of British Columbia for over a century. In the same province, the Ogopogo is also referred to as a mythical creature that lurks the waters of Okanagan Lake. It is reported to be upwards to 120 meters long! Be sure to apply for a Canadian visa and be ready to capture these creatures on camera! Maybe you will be the first?
Polar bears
Canada is home to the most polar bears in the world! So many people in Churchill, Manitoba, leave their car doors unlocked if a polar bear comes up to the car to get out and away on time. Don’t let this scare you, though! Many people still apply for Canadian tourist visas to explore the Viking town of Gimli, which is located not too far from Churchill. The northern part of Manitoba has several wildlife such as whales, seals. At certain times of the year, visitors get to experience and be mesmerized by the beautiful northern light.
Amount of languages spoken.
Canada has two official languages. French and English. Aside from the official languages, Canada also has 70 aboriginal languages that are spoken across the country. Given the large number of languages spoken, there is a lot to discover in Canadian culture.
Canada’s English Vocabulary
Canada has several English words that no other Anglo-speaking country uses. For example, Canadians are known for using the infamous “Eh.” If you’re thinking of immigrating to Canada, you should brush up on some of our unique ways of saying things. Read our guide on the 10 ways to use the word, Eh.
Canada’s Mac and Cheese culture
Mac and Cheese, also known as Kraft Dinner, is loved by many Canadians. It is loved so much that 1.7 million boxes are sold weekly! That is 88.4 million boxes in one year! But if we compare these numbers to Vietnam and instant noodles consumption, Canada does not even come close to Vietnam’s 7.03 billion packages that are purchased yearly.
Canada Has More Lakes Than the Rest of the World’s Lakes Combined.
Canada has more freshwater lakes than anywhere else in the world! With 563 lakes larger than 100,000,000 square meters, Canadian residents and tourists have plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. From Canada’s record-breaking 22.1 million tourist visas issued in 2019, any of the visitors who researched and applied for a Canadian visa that year knew well beforehand of the many beautiful natural wonders the country would have to offer during their visit.
The Apology Act
The word “sorry” has been overused so much in Canada that the country introduced in the year 2009 that it is unacceptable to use the word “sorry” in Canadian courts. As a result, the term has lost its true meaning and is now recognized as an expression of regret or sympathy.
On that note, we are “sorry” if you haven’t applied for your Canadian visa yet! We look forward to sharing our country with you!
