SELECT Magazine Fall 2020 | Page 44

AMAZINGLY FRIENDLY This may take time for some travelers to get used to, but Canadians are generally kind and approachable. So, don’t be shocked if you’re wandering around Vancouver’s world-renowned Stanley Park or historic Old Montreal, and someone approaches you offering assistance or directions. They’re not trying to sell you anything — they just want to help. And any time you walk into a café or sit next to a stranger at the theatre, you’ll be instantly engaged in conversation. Downtown Vancouver from Queen Elizabeth Park REALLY, REALLY INTO HOCKEY All hail hockey in Canada In Canada, hockey is life. They teach their children how to skate before they learn their ABCs, and frozen ponds are turned into instant games at the drop of a hat. The friendliness spoken of above is instantly dismissed if you dare root for the wrong team. But show a genuine interest in the sport while traveling there, and the locals will quickly regale you with heroic tales of past players and championship celebrations. 42 | SELECT · 2020