Meeting of the Minds

For many Americans, going to a Canadian restaurant/hotel can be a very different experience. There are so many differences in foreign restaurants or hotels (and especially Canada) that it can actually be quite confusing in certain respects. More than that, it can make one feel like somewhat of a fool for not knowing what is going on when certain things come up.

One of these differences is the price you pay. Since the USD is stronger than the Canadian dollar, the prices in Canada are higher. When you convert your USD to the Canadian version, you’ll get more, but when you spend it, you’ll spend more. In the case of going out to eat, some of the prices that you’d be familiar with might seem astronomically higher, when they’re generally the same before conversion.

Another thing that confuses foreigners is the included tip. When paying your bill, you might notice that it has the tip already calculated and added into what you have to pay. It may not be what you usually pay for a tip, but usually goes by a universal rate that most people are okay with. It also helps eliminate the inquiry of whether to leave the tip on the table or to put it on your card. Regardless of what method you chose, you’ll know that you’re leaving a tip and that your server is getting it.

Something that’s universal with any country is culture and cultural food. Each country has a particular food, or line of foods, that they are famous for serving or cooking with. Canada, like any country, has it’s own, but because of it’s past history with Great Britain and with France, it has adopted some of both cultures. This makes the Canadian restaurant experience that much more unique and exciting.

Even the fast-food industry is unique. Like any company, the national location changes what kinds of service are provided, and Canada is no exception. Unlike what you’d see in America, many fast food places might sell beer there. There are other such changes that you’d see that might seem strange practice to the typical US citizen.

They are also different in how they serve their customers. They may have the same menu items that you’d see in America, but they’re prepared in a different way for whatever reason. As an example, because Canada uses the metric system, they might sell steak by a different size scale. This can be baffling to an American.

Anywhere you go, there are certain foods that are more popular, or may not even be eaten in that country. These foods define what kind of restaurant is most common, or what you’ll commonly see on a menu. In Canada, there are a few foods like this, such as cheese and beer, that are popular enough among Canadians that make their way onto menus that you might not see in other countries.

Canada may have some of the same restaurants or hotels that you’d see in America, but they’re different beyond what was mentioned here. They’re different because food is more important or exciting to them than it is to Americans. In America, food must be a convenience, not an experience. That alone is a big aspect that tourists have a hard time adapting to, but in all other respects, it’s an exciting endeavor and one that nearly everybody who travels gets into.

Looking to spend a relaxing night away from home? Then visit your local hotel or motel to stay overnight in luxury and bliss!