Capital
The capital city of Canada is Ottawa, located in the province of Ontario. Ottawa is the political and administrative center of the country, home to the Canadian Parliament and official government institutions. Major cities like Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and Calgary also play important roles economically and culturally.

Currency
Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD), denoted as “$” or “C$”. The country’s currency is one of the most traded in the world and is relatively stable.

Weather
Canada is known for its varied climate, ranging from harsh winters in the northern regions to milder weather along the Pacific coast. Winters (December–February) can be very cold, particularly in cities like Montreal and Winnipeg, with temperatures often dropping below -10°C. Summers (June–August) are warmer, especially in southern parts of the country, with temperatures reaching 25–30°C. Coastal areas like Vancouver experience milder winters and cooler summers.

Language
Canada has two official languages: English and French. English is the predominant language across the country, while French is primarily spoken in the province of Quebec. Many Canadians are bilingual, particularly in urban areas, and English is widely understood and spoken across the country.

Public Transport
Canada has a robust public transport system, particularly in major cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, where there are metro, bus, and commuter train networks. Public transport in smaller cities and rural areas is less extensive, and owning a car is often necessary for convenience.

Healthcare
Canada has a publicly funded healthcare system, known as Medicare, which provides free or low-cost healthcare services to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. International students and temporary residents are required to have health insurance to cover medical services, as they may not be covered under Medicare.

Time Zones
Canada spans six primary time zones:

• Pacific Standard Time (PST), UTC -8
• Mountain Standard Time (MST), UTC -7
• Central Standard Time (CST), UTC -6
• Eastern Standard Time (EST), UTC -5
• Atlantic Standard Time (AST), UTC -4
• Newfoundland Standard Time (NST), UTC -3:30

Safety and Environment
Canada is known for its high standard of safety, low crime rates, and welcoming attitude toward immigrants. The country has vast natural landscapes, including national parks, lakes, forests, and mountains, making it a prime destination for outdoor activities. While urban areas are generally safe, it’s important to be cautious in crowded or unfamiliar areas.

Cost of Living
The cost of living in Canada varies significantly depending on the city. Cities like Vancouver and Toronto have a high cost of living, particularly in terms of housing, whereas cities like Calgary, Ottawa, and Montreal offer more affordable options. The overall cost of living is moderate compared to other major Western countries.

Education and Work Opportunities
Canada boasts a world-class education system with many internationally recognized universities, particularly in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Ottawa. International students can work part-time during their studies (up to 20 hours per week during term time) and full-time during breaks. After graduation, students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to gain work experience, and many find opportunities in sectors like technology, healthcare, engineering, business, and natural resources. Canada’s growing technology sector and demand for skilled workers make it a great place for students.