12 THINGS YOU SHOULD NEVER DO IN CANADA
By BENITO CERENO
History - Science
SWOONING OVER THE PM
Canada's current prime minister might be young, charming, and relatively modern and progressive in many of his policies, but not all Canadians think Justin Trudeau is as cool as outsiders do. Trudeau has garnered criticism for being "an intellectual lightweight," his poor handling of indigenous affairs, his relations with China, and his disastrous climate change policy.
DOING THE VOICE
When people put on a fake Canadian accent as a joke, it's not even an accurate accent — it's some antiquated and exaggerated version of how some Canadians might have spoken 150 years ago. Thus, if you go to Canada, don't make fun of the way they talk, as stereotypes can be frustrating.
MONEY MATTERS
You mustn’t make a joke about Canadian money looking like Monopoly money or tell Canadians you think it’s weird that the Queen of England is on the money. Additionally, don't try to pay for things with American money, and don't try to get American dollars in change for Canadian money.
no LIBERAL PARADISE
Canada has its share of issues — arms dealing with the Middle East, a huge carbon footprint, intelligence agencies that can legally torture for information, and a history of mistreating indigenous peoples. In short, Canada isn’t a progressive paradise that’ll heartily welcome you if an election doesn't go your way — so it’s best to leave politics at home.
NE PRÉSUME PAS DE LA LANGUE
Since Canada has two official languages — English and French — it's pretty common for foreigners to believe that every Canadian is bilingual, speaking both languages. Most of the French-speaking Canadian population is from Quebec — so, don't assume that everyone outside Quebec can speak French or that everyone inside Quebec can speak English.