Information for immigrants to Canada

[matt_mcl]

I was just reading a pamphlet entitled A Newcomer’s Introduction to Canada online, and it struck me how many things we never think about that would be totally different elsewhere. I know, mind-shattering realization, right? :rolleyes: So anyway, here are a few of the ones that gave me pause:

Prices in supermarkets will usually be marked on the shelf or on the product. You cannot bargain with salespeople in supermarkets.

For public health reasons, it is illegal to raise animals for food anywhere except on a farm.

Water from the tap is safe to drink. Do not use water from lakes and rivers for drinking or cooking.

You can use your telephone to talk with people almost anywhere in the world. However, you do have to pay extra for each call you make to people outside your local calling area. These are called long-distance calls. They can be very expensive, and the bill must be paid every month.

A large number of religions are practised in Canada. For this reason, religion does not play an active role in most regular public schools. Public schools usually teach world religion as a subject instead of providing religious instruction.

If you or a member of your family is seriously injured or suddenly becomes very sick, go to the emergency department of the nearest hospital.

In Canada you will see many things that you might like to own. Through advertising, companies encourage you to buy their products, even if you do not really need them or cannot afford them. Some salespeople and acquaintances may try very hard to sell you things. You may feel pressured to borrow and spend money. It is important to be careful and informed.

The abuse of wives by their husbands is a crime. (It is also a crime for wives to abuse their husbands.)

Canadians do not bribe police officers – it is a serious crime.

Being polite in social situations does not mean accepting everything that is offered or proposed. It is acceptable to say “No, thank you.” However, if you do want something, say “Thank you,” and accept it the first time you are offered.

You should always arrive on time – at school, at work and for any appointment. People who are always late may be fired from their jobs or suspended from school.

[Northern_Piper]

matt you forgot to include:

You should always arrive on time – at school, at work and for picketing or demonstations. People who are always late may be fired from their jobs, suspended from school, or tear-gassed for inconveniencing the waiting riot police.

[Mnementh]

This is some kind of satire, right? I mean, the advertising thing… they have ads and pressure to buy stuff in America, right? They don’t really fear their tap water, right?

[sub]right?[/sub]

[lolagranola]

Uh, I believe in some countries they do.

[Jonathan_Chance]

*Originally posted by Mnementh *
**This is some kind of satire, right? I mean, the advertising thing… they have ads and pressure to buy stuff in America, right? They don’t really fear their tap water, right?

[sub]right?[/sub] **

Hey, I fear my tap water. And I’m in the good ol’ USA. I’m on a well and I’ve got LOADS of rust. I cope with it by having about 5 grand worth of filtration equipment in my cellar.

God help those in less developed countries who can’t afford proper filtration.

[Fretful_Porpentine]

And here are some equally startling revelations about the UK, courtesy of the BUNAC Work in Britain handbook:

If your documents are lost or stolen, report it at once to the nearest police station.

Interviews: As in America first impressions definitely do count. Dress smartly … Interviews are also your chance to ask questions such as what the pay is, the hours, will you have to do overtime, will you get paid for overtime, what should you wear, etc.

Hitching can be dangerous for both men and women. You should never hitch alone.

If you are coming to the UK for six months, you may need clothing for more than one season.

(Gee, and I thought they were in the tropics…)

The currency of Great Britain is called Sterling… Foreign currency or traveller’s cheques are not accepted in shops, etc. YOU CANNOT USE US DOLLARS IN THE UK.

The UK is not a third world country.

[Ike_Witt]

*Originally posted by matt_mcl *

For public health reasons, it is illegal to raise animals for food anywhere except on a farm.

Like they’re going to be able to tell what I do with my Guinea Pigs.

If you or a member of your family is seriously injured or suddenly becomes very sick, go to the emergency department of the nearest hospital.

Holing up and waiting to die is no longer needed.

Canadians do not bribe police officers – it is a serious crime.

Sure. Everybody knows that ALL police officers are above reproach.

**