Immigrating to a new country is not an easy feat.
Leaving everything you know behind, entering a totally new world, new culture, and behaviors. It is a rollercoaster of emotions, but nothing hits you harder than the culture shock you face in this new environment.
We all come from different backgrounds and cultures, and Canadian culture might be different than that to which you are accustomed. So here are some culture shocks that you might have a tough time adapting to in Canada:
- Health care is extremely slow- Health care is a necessity, however in Canada you might have to wait for seven to eight hours in the hospital in the emergency room among a slew of people who may not even be very sick.
The hospitals do not have enough beds or facilities to cater to people as frequently as an emergency should. - There is no price regulation- If you come from a country like India, you are in for a shock. Have you visited a couple of stores and wondered why the shampoo there is way more expensive?
Well, it is because there is no maximum retail price in Canada. Prices are unregulated, and as a newbie in the country, you might want to research affordable stores for your groceries and everyday consumables. - Everything is cashless- Most of the immigrants come from developing countries, where cash payments are prominent. However, things in Canada work a little different. Since the pandemic, people have accepted the cashless world and you will eventually have to say goodbye to carrying around bills and coins.
Apple Pay is in common use where you can add all your cards and pay with just a click on your phone. - You will get a lot of scam calls- When you get a new number for yourself, be prepared for scam calls… a lot of them. The number of scammers who pose as bank representatives threatening to close your bank account or congratulating you on winning a prize is astounding. Therefore, next time an unknown number calls you, don’t ask anything and don’t tell them anything.
- Thrift culture- Thrifting is highly popular among Canadians, you will find a thrift store around every corner. These thrift stores are not limited to clothes, with some also selling furniture, antique pieces, handbags, and more. Thrifting has become the new fashion trend and has been on the rise in Canada. Chain stores like Value Village or Salvation Army, and one offs like Courage my Love and Vintage Depot are some stores to try.
- It gets extremely cold- Not a culture shock but a climate shock. Canada is an extremely cold region. Even if you know it is going to be cold, you never know what it will feel like. Temperatures can drop well into the negative degrees, so it is better to prepare yourself beforehand, because winter comes every year.
- Winter hiring freezes- Pun intended, most employers stop hiring during winters. Canadians hibernate during the winter season – it is too cold for events and going out to have a jolly time. After New Year’s, you will see a slump in recreational activities, and it is very difficult to find a job during peak winters. If you decide to come to Canada for the winter semester, you may struggle a to find an opportunity you like.
Adapting to a new culture is a choice, however the way a country works is something that is going to affect everyone alike.
Although changes are tough, on the brighter side of things, we get to explore life and cherish the experiences of living far away from home, thousands of miles away in a truly different world.
