KGIC Pre Departure Guide English

8/13/2019 KGIC Pre Departure Guide English

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KGICPRE-DEPARTURE GUIDE


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ARRIVING IN CANADA

LEAVING THE AIRPORT

DAILY LIVING

TRANSPORTATION

What do i need to have ready before I board

the airplane?

Tips for on the airplane

What do I do with the Customs Declara-

tion Card?

Clearing Canada Customs and Immigration

Important information for students who

have applied for a Study Permit or Work

Permit in their home country.

What do I do if I have a Study Permit or

Work Permit?

KGIC airport pick-up service

Vancouver International Airport

Toronto Pearson International Airport

If you miss your connecting flight in

TorontoDo not panic

Halifax Stanfield International Airport

Weather in Canada

Packing for Canada

Using electronic devices in Canada

Using money in Canada

Shopping and dining out

Telephones

Medical insurance in Canada

Driving in Canada

Staying safe

Metro Vancouver including Surrey

Victoria

Toronto

Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM)

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TABLE OF CONTENTS


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On the street / Around town

On the bus

Eating out

In the bathroom

In your homestay or dormitory

In the classroom and at school

Halifax

Toronto

Vancouver / Surrey

Victoria

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BIKES AND PATHS

CANADIAN CUSTOMS & ETIQUETTE

YOUR FIRST DAY AT KGIC

SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE

USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS AND WEB SITES


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ARRIVING IN CANADACongratulations on starting your exciting adventure as astudent in Canada! We are looking forward to you attendingone of our schools. This section of your pre-departure guidewill explain the following.

The documents you need to bring before getting on

the airplane The documents you will have to fill out on the plane

The process of going through Canada Immigration andCustoms

Important information for students who have a StudyPermit or Work Permit

Picking-up your luggage

Using the KGIC Airport Pick-up Service

For more information on arriving in Canada you can alsovisit the airport websites.

Vancouver and Surrey, BC:

Victoria, BC:

Toronto, ON:

Halifax, NS:

For information on documents needed before entering Canadavisit the Government of Canada website, www.goingtocanada.gc.ca, or see the VISA section of this guide.

www.yvr.ca

http://www.victoriaairport.com/

www.gtaa.com

www.hiaa.ca

What do I need to have ready before I board the airplane?

Before getting on your flight to Canada there are someimportant documents and information you need to makesure you have available when you arrive in Canada. Thesedocuments and information should be kept in a safe placeas part of your carry-on luggage.

Do not put any of the following documents into yourchecked luggage.

Your Passport

Your Letter of Acceptance from KGIC or KGIBC-CTC.

Your Visa *(If needed)

Any information or papers you received from the CanadianEmbassy in your country

Your return ticket

A bank statement showing you have enough money tosupport yourself in Canada ( you might be asked)

Your address in Canada

Important contact telephone numbers in Canada ( egPerson, who will pick you up and their phone numberKGIC s emergency pick up phone number contactperson can be found on the homestay or student house

information sheet we send out before your arrival)


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For a list of countries that require a Visa

before entering Canada visit http://www.cic.

gc.ca/english/visit/visas.asp.

Relax, get comfortable and sleep as much as you can. There are a fewsimple things you can do so that you will not be too tired when you arrivein Canada.

When you get on the plane, set your watch to Canada time

Drink lots of water

Dont drink alcohol or caffeine

Get lots of rest before flying and rest on the plane

Try and stretch and exercise in your seat while on the plane

When you arrive in Canada, stay awake until 11 pm, dont stay up

later than 11pm. Your body needs to adjust to the new time zone

What do I do with theCustoms Declaration Card?

On the plane you will begiven a Customs DeclarationCard and a multilingual leafletexplaining how to fill out thecard, by the flight attendant. If

you have any problems fillingout the information on the cardthe flight attendant can assistyou. You will need the followinginformation when filling outyour declaration card.

Your full name and date of birthYour address, flight information,

purpose of trip, & place of departure

Duration of stay, list of goods you are

bringing into the country over duty-

free allowance Your signature

Check the appropriate boxes


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Important Information For Students Who Have Applied ForA Study Permit or Work Permit In Their Home Country

What do I do if I have a Study Permit or Work Permit?

The Second Interview

If you are coming to Canada on a Study Permit ( more than6 months of study) or Work Permit you will need to have

a 2nd interview to obtain this permit when going throughCanada Customs and Immigration.

The sticker you received on your passport when you appliedfor your study permit or work permit at the CanadianConsulate or Embassy in your country is not your actualpermit. Once you have passed through customs and havehad your passport and documents checked you MUSTproceed to immigration to get your study permit or workpermit. This is a 2nd interview with an immigration officer.You will have to show all of your documents again.

If you are not sure where to go, ask the customs agentwhen they are checking your passport. Tell the agent thatyou need to get a study or work permit and ask him orher where to go to get it.

Without this second interview you will not have your study orwork permit and will be in Canada on a Temporary ResidentVisa. If you do not get this document at immigration youwill have to leave and enter Canada again to get it.

Once the immigration officer is satisfied he or she will attacha large paper document to your passport. This document isyour official Study Permit or Work Permit. If you decide to

extend your stay in Canada you will need this document.

An Important Note on Luggage Pick-Up

Now that you have cleared Canada Customs and Immigrationyou can pick up your luggage. Look at one of the largeinformation boards for your airline and flight number. Thiswill tell you on what carousel your luggage will be arriving.

Before going to the luggage area and leaving the immigrationarea, make sure you have all the documents you need. Ifyou have a Study Permit or Work Permit do not go tothe baggage claims area until you have met with the

immigration officer for the 2nd interview. You will notbe able to return to the immigration area if you miss thisinterview and will not receive your study or work permit.

Problems at the Airport

If you have any problems while at the airport, remember tostay calm. Go to an airport information booth or approach anairport attendant for assistance. Canadians are very friendlyand are there to assist you. DO NOT PANIC.


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LEAVING THE AIRPORT

KGIC Airport Pick-up Service is available at all our locations Your agency will take care ofbooking a pick-up service for you if you requested it.

If you do not have an agent and still want us to come and pick you up at the airportcontact the KGIC representative you were in contact with after registration and they wilarrange pick-up for you.

If you have paid for KGICs Airport Pick-up service, a greeter holding a sign with your nameon it will be waiting for you past the baggage-claim in the arrivals area. This is a publicarea where many people are waiting for friends or family to leave the "baggage-claim" areaIf you cannot connect with him or her, please do not wander around. Stay in the designatedarrivals area and look for your name. You can also call the emergency number from yourpick-up information if you are unable to find your pick-up person.

The arrival hall can be very busy and it can take a while to find each other. If you do notfind your pick up person immediately do not panic. See below for a picture of where our

pick-up person will wait for you.PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE THE AIRPORT.

VANCOUVERINTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

TAXIS

BUSSESSKYTRAIN

Vancouvers beautiful International Airport is situated approximately20 minutes outside of Vancouver's city centre. It is also abou35 minutes to downtown Surrey. The average price from theVancouver International Airport to Vancouver city centre is about$45 and the cost is about $80 to Surrey.

Transit from the Vancouver International Airport to downtownVancouver is both convenient and cheap. The Canada Line

Skytrain runs from the airport directly to the downtown coreof Vancouver. From the Arrivals gate, you simply exit theairport and walk to the Skytrain station across the road. If youpre-purchase 2-zone tickets from the airport 7-11 Conveniencestore, it is less than $3.75 for a 25 minute trip. If you payat the train, the cost is $8.75. The Skytrain runs every 7minutes during peak times, and every 15 minutes at othertimes. For more information, go to the Translink websiteTranslink.bc.ca.The Skytrain and bus system from theairport to downtown Surrey is fairly complicated, takes ove1 hour, and is not recommended, however you can go tothe Translink website for more information.


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TAXIS

TAXIS

BUSSES

BUSSES

TORONTOPEARSONINTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

HALIFAXSTANFIELDINTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Toronto Pearson International Airport is situated approximately25, minutes from downtown Toronto. A taxi will cost about $50to travel from the airport to the downtown area.

Transit from the Toronto Pearson Airport to downtown Torontois very convenient. The # 192 Airport Rocket route starts fromPearson Airport Terminal 1 and runs to the downtown core oToronto. From your Arrivals gate, you can take the free LINKtrain to connect to Terminal 1. The helpful airport staff candirect you to the #192 bus stop. For more information aboutpublic buses, go to the Toronto transit commission websitehttp://www.gtaa.com. There is also a shuttle bus, (the AirportExpress), from airport terminals 1 and 3 to Downtown hotelsYou can get more information at this website:http://www.torontoairportexpress.com

The Halifax Stanfield International Airport is situatedapproximately 35 minutes outside of the city centre. Theaverage price of a taxi into the city centre is $60.00 one wayThere will be taxis available in the designated TAXI area othe airport, however, if you would like to pre-arrange a taxiyou can call or email these HSIA approved certified taxdrivers from the following list: http://www.hiaa.ca/imagespdf_files/2010/Prearranged%20List%20December%202009.pdf

The Airporter www.airporter.biz/schedule.html is a shuttlebus that goes to and from the HSIA to the city centre. Thecost for a one-way ticket is $21.00. The schedule will telyou where the shuttles stops are, and at what time you wildepart and arrive at your destination. The Acadian Bus Lineswww.acadianbus.com also offer bus services from HSIA toHalifax and Dartmouth.


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IF YOU MISS YOUR CONNECTING FLIGHTIN TORONTODO NOT PANIC

All Flights arriving at Pearson International Airport in Toronto MUST clear customs in Toronto.

This means you will need to go through immigration in Toronto, pick up your luggageand put it onto the correct conveyer belt according to your flight number and destination.

MANY of our students miss their connecting flights because of hold ups in Immigration,or many airplanes arriving at the same time in Toronto.Again, do not panic, planes to Vancouver leave hourly, and the airport personnel will bookyou on to the next available flight to your final destination.

If you miss your connection and you manage to be able to call the pick up persons cellnumber ( on the homestay or student house info under emergency pick up phone number)please do so and call before you board your connecting flight. This will help the pick upperson tremendously.

If you do not manage to call us, it is ok too. Many of our students have missed theirconnecting flights it happens every day!

DAILY LIVINGLife as a student in Canada can be exciting and thrilling. It is a chance for many students todiscover their independence and challenge themselves with new experiences and personal

growth. You will find many differences between living in your country and living in Canada.You might also be surprised to find some similarities.

Without a doubt, moving to Canada will bring big changes to your life, whether you arehere for only a month, or you are studying here for a year or more. Regardless of how longyou will study here, you will have to face a new city, new people and new ways of doingthings. This experience causes what is known as culture shock. Culture shock is a feelingof confusion and anxiety caused by experiencing a culture different from your own.

Culture shock can increase feelings of loneliness, make you feel more stress and cause a lotof frustration. The best way to avoid the negative effects of culture shock is to prepare youas much as possible before arriving in Canada. We strongly recommend you read the sectionCanadian Etiquette and Customs for more detailed information about Canadian culture.

In this section you will find information on:

Weather Information for Vancouver,Victoria, Toronto and Halifax

Packing for each season

Canadian money

Banks in Canada

Shopping and Dining Out

Information on getting a cell phone

Medical insurance

Getting a Library card

Obtaining a drivers license

Safety Dos and Donts


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Weather in CanadaCanada has four distinct seasons, spring, summer, fall and winter. When many peoplethink of Canada they think of cold and snow, but in fact the summers in Canada can bequite hot. British Columbia has the mildest winters in all of Canada, though they can bevery grey and rainy

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Study Tip: Listening to weather forecasts is agreat way to practice and improve your listeningskills. Visit www.theweathernetwork.comtolisten and watch Canadian weather forecasts.


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What do I need to pack before coming to Canada?

WINTER SUMMERSPRING/FALL

Warm, waterproof clothing Sweaters or hoodies Light jacket Heavy jacket Warm hat, toque, or

earmuffs Scarf or neck warmer Mitts or gloves Umbrella

(For British Columbia) Water-resistant boots Warm boots

Warm, water-resistantjacket

Light jacket Umbrella Comfortable closed toes

shoes Water-resistant footwear T-shirts Sweaters or hoodies

Light pants Heavy slacks or jeans

Water-resistant clothing Umbrella Light jacket Shorts Light pants T-shirts Comfortable shoes Sandals Sunglasses and

sunscreen

Can I use my electronic devices in Canada?

Residential Canada uses 110 volt electrical systems at 60 hertz. You will need to use avoltage transformer/converter to charge your cellular phone, lap top and also to use anyother electrical device you are bringing such as hair dryers, razors, irons, coffee makers,or rice cookers.


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Using Money in Canada?

Canadas official currency is the Canadian dollar ($). OneCanadian dollar is divided into 100 cents. Here are thecommon names given to change in Canada:

loonie $1

toonie $2

dime$0.10

nickel $0.5

quarter $0.25

penny $0.01

Paper money, also known as bills, comes in $5, $10, $20,$50 and $100 denominations.

The $5, $10 and $20 bill are most commonly used. EachCanadian bill comes in a different colour.

$5 Blue $10 Purple $20 Green $50 Red $100 Brown

Paper bills have special security features designed to makethem difficult to counterfeit. Some small stores may not accept$100 bills if they dont have enough change. When you goout in Canada make sure you have some small bills with you.

Canada has strong historical ties to the United Kingdom andis a member of the Commonwealth Nations. You will findan image of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on the back ofall Canadian money.


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How do I change my home-country moneyinto Canadian Currency?Its a good idea to exchange some of your money into Canadian currency beforeyou leave, so that you have cash on hand for small purchases as soon as youarrive. There are several ways you can exchange your money into Canadiandollars once you are in Canada. Before exchanging your money it is a goodidea to be aware of the current exchange rate. For a general idea of what the

exchange rate will be you can visit the Bank of Canadas currency converter atwww.bank-banque-canada.ca/en/rates/converter.html.

BanksCanadian Banks offer competitive exchange rates. Most CanadianBanks will be able to exchange money for you. The hours of businessfor banks can vary, but they are usually open Monday to Friday from10am until about 4:30pm. Common Canadian banks are:

Foreign exchange outletsForeign exchange outlets can be foundat selected locations across Canada, including airports and touristattractions. You can easily find foreign exchange offices in DowntownVancouver and Downtown Toronto, and Downtown Halifax.

Hotelssome hotels have currency exchange counters that can exchangesmall amounts of money. This service may be limited to hotel guests.


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Can I use my Credit Cardor Debit Card in Canada?

Yes. In addition to cash, most stores will accept debit cards or credit cards as payment.Credit cards are often required for the booking of hotels, car rentals or bike rentals andmany other activities.

Automated Teller Machines (ATMs, or sometimes called ABMs) are very easy to find inCanada. You will find them in banks, stores, gas stations, hotels and shopping malls. SomeATMs are privately operated and may have an additional charge for using them. If yourdebit card or credit card has a Cirrus or Maestro symbol displayed on it then you canuse it at an ATM in Canada, as long as the ATM also has the same symbols displayed.

Please note that you might have to pay an extra foreign currency conversion charge, withdrawalfee, and other fees depending on your debit card and the bank you are withdrawing from.

These symbols mean that you can get money from a bank machine in Canada with a debitor credit card from your country and your pin number (security code).

How do I open a bank account in Canada?

If you want to open an account at a Canadian bank you will need to have a Student Visaor Work Permit. You will also need an address in Canada (homestay, apartment or house).Banks will not accept a hotel, motel or hostel address. To open a bank account you will need:

Your address in Canada

Photo Identification

Your Student Visa or Work Permit

Letter of Acceptance or Letter of Enrollment from KGIC

If you want help opening an account when you arrive in Canada speak to a counselor atyour school and they can give you more information.


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How do I transfer money to Canada?

If you have a bank account in Canada you can transfer money directly to your accountfrom your country. Ask your bank to provide you with all the information needed to transfermoney into your account. Make sure you know the fees for the transfer and how long ittakes before the money is in your account.

For a faster money transfer or to transfer money without a Canadian bank account you canuse Moneygram www.moneygram.comor Money Mart, through Western Union

www.moneymart.ca/westernunion.asp.

BankingVocabulary List

account bills cash cashier

check coins credit credit card

currency deposit pay savings

teller withdraw bank card/

debit card

Useful Phrases at the Bank To open an account: I would like to open an account

please.

To put money in your account: I would like to deposimoney into my account.

To take money out: I would like to withdraw (x) dollarsfrom my account.

To exchange money: Id like to change this into Canadian

dollars, please.


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Shopping and Dining out

You will find many great places to shop and eat out inCanada. Canada is a very multicultural country. You will beable to find food from all parts of the world. Part of the joyof living in bigger Canadian cities is the diversity of foodavailable. This is a great chance for you to try food from allover the world. Try them out! Just to name a few, some ofthe different ethnic foods available in Canada are Indian, Thai,

Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Malaysian, Ethiopian, Russian,Italian, Spanish, or Mexican. You may be surprised at howdelicious they are.

If you find you are missing foods from your country it is usuallyfairly easy to find a restaurant that has the food you like.

There are also many western style restaurants that serve greatsteak, seafood, and local specialties, among other things. Agood hamburger is also easy to find!

Where can I go Grocery shopping?

There are many place you can buy groceries in Canada. Someof these places are: Safeway, Save-on-Foods, Price Choppers,Dominion, Wal-Mart, London Drugs, The Real CanadianSuperstore, Sobeys, Costco, T&T and H-Mart. You can alsovisit the many public markets which usually offer fresh produce.

Gluten free products

Not everyone can digest wheat. In Canada you will find lots ofproducts that are Gluten free. Please make sure to let us knowon your homestay application your special dietary requests.


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Alcohol and Smoking

You must be 19 and older to purchase alcoholic beverages in British Columbia,Ontario and Halifax. If you look like you are under 25 you will be required toshow an ID such as your passport or provincial ID. Drinking out in public isstrictly prohibited in Canada. You cannot drink a beer on the beach or in thepark. If you get caught you can get fined!

People are also prohibited from smoking indoors, in front of buildings, near

open windows or vents, or near bus stops. You must also be 19 to purchasecigarettes in British Columbia, Ontario and Nova Scotia.

Is there a sales tax in Canada?

There is a national sales tax in Canada. Many provinces also have their ownprovincial sales tax. In Canada stores and restaurants list the price before tax.The final amount of your bill can be higher depending on the taxes that areadded to the total.

Canada has a national sales tax. It is called the Goods and Services Tax (GST).The GST is 5%. It is added to your purchase amount.

As of July 1, 2010, Ontario will have a Harmonized Sales Tax. The HST inOntario is 13% and is applied to most products and services sold in the province.

As of July 1, 2010, British Columbia will have a Harmonized Sales Tax. TheHST in British Columbia is 12% and is applied to most products and servicessold in the province.British Columbia also has a Liquor tax. This tax is 10% and is applied to thepurchase of alcohol.

Nova Scotia has a Harmonized Sales Tax. The HST in Nova Scotia is 13% andis applied to most products and services sold in the province.

How much should I tip?

Tipping is a part of dining out in Canada. When paying your bill at either abar, pub or restaurant you should tip 15%. If you are extremely unhappy withthe service and will not return to the restaurant then you do not have to paythe tip. If on your bill there is a Gratuity or Service charge added then donot pay a tip. They have already added the tip to your bill.

It is also customary to tip taxi drivers andhair stylists or barbers in Canada.


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Telephones

Can I use my cell phone in Canada?

For most countries you can use your cell phone in Canada. You have tomake sure your phone is unlocked before you leave your country. When youarrive in Canada you can buy a SIM card for $30-$40. Make sure to checkwith your cell phone provider in your country if this is possible before youleave. For some countries such as Korea it is not possible to use a SIM card.

You may still use your phone if you set up international roaming with yourcell phone provider, but these rates are very expensive to use.

Can I buy a cell phone in Canada?

It is possible to buy a cell phone in Canada. It is recommended that youdo not sign a contract for a cell phone plan. There are large penalties ifyou cancel your phone before your contract expires. For most students itis best to get pay as you go phone. For this kind of phone you purchasecell phone time as you need it. You can either purchase a phone from oneof the cell phone companies or buy a used phone from a student who isleaving Canada. For help on getting and setting up cell phones talk to your

school counselor when you arrive in Canada, they can guide you to a localstore that sells prepaid phones and phonecards nearby

How can I call my country?

To make an international long distance phone call dial 011 + country code+ city code + phone number. The rates for these calls can be expensive. Itis recommended that you buy a calling card to make long distance phonecalls. Many convenience stores offer a variety of long distance phone cards.Be sure to check the rates for calling your country before you buy the card.

Do I need medical insurance in Canada?

Yes! While you attend KGIC or KGIBC- CTC you are required to have medicalinsurance. You will be asked to show proof of your medical insurance when youarrive at the school. If you do not have medical insurance when you arrive youwill have two weeks to get it. All Canadians have health insurance. If you donthave it seeing a doctor or a medical emergency is extremely expensive. Talkto your agent about getting medical insurance before you leave your country.

British Columbia (Vancouver, Victoria, Surrey ): If you are a student (more than6 months of study) on a student visa you can apply for BC Medical in BritishColumbia http://www.health.gov.bc.ca/msp/infoben/index.html

Ontario (Toronto): International students are NOT eligible for coverage under

the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). You must get insurance on your own.

Nova Scotia ( Halifax): People from outside the country who hold a StudyPermit can apply for coverage the first day of the thirteenth month followingthe date of arrival in Nova Scotia as a student. You are eligible after ONE year.http://novascotiaimmigration.com/health-care/ns-medical-services-insurance


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Can I fill out my prescription at aCanadian pharmacy?

It may be possible to fill out prescriptions in Canada. If you have a medicalcondition or require special medicine or treatment, get a letter from your doctorin your country explaining the medical condition and purpose for the medication.Also get a translation of the prescription and the letter. Bring all of this to aDoctor in Canada so that they can give you a Canadian prescription to be

filled at a pharmacy. If you have any medication sent from your country makesure all the documents explaining the reason for the medication are with themedicine translated into English. Canada Customs may not allow the medicineto enter the country so make sure you are prepared before you come. Alsobe sure to inform the school of any medical conditions or allergies you have.

Can I get a library card in Canada?

Canadian cities have great public library resources. Libraries are popularplaces for students to study. They also have a large selection of books,

magazines, DVDs and music. Getting a library card is a great way to savemoney and take-out books for your reading pleasure. To get a library cardyou will need some form of identification such as a drivers license, studentcard or passport. You will also need something with your current addressin Canada on it. This can be a bill or letter you have received with bothyour name and address on the envelope.

For more information on using public libraries in Canada you can visit thefollowing websites.

Toronto: www.torontopubliclibrary.ca

Victoria: www.gvpl.ca

Vancouver: www.vpl.vancouver.bc.ca

Surrey: www.spl.surrey.bc.ca

Halifax:www.halifaxpubliclibraries.ca

Will I be able to drive in Canada?

As long as you have an International Drivers License you can drive for upto six months in Canada. You will have to get your International DriversLicense in your country before coming to Canada. If you have a translationof your drivers license and drivers record from your country it may be

possible to change your license to a BC, Ontario, or Nova Scotia driverslicense. They will keep you old license when you do this.

For BC visit www.icbc.com/licensingfor more information. For Ontario visitwww.mto.gov.on.cafor information on getting an Ontario drivers license.For Nova Scotia visit www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/for more information.


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Staying Safe

Canada is a very safe country. As long as you use a littlecommon sense it is unlikely that you will have any problemswhile staying in Canada. Still there are some things youshould do and not do to stay safe while living in Canada.In the case of an emergency call 911. They will ask if youneed the police, fire department or ambulance and will need

Do

Be aware of your surroundings Stay in well lit areas at night Have a plan for getting home at the end

of the night Have your address written down and

with you Have important phone numbers written

down and with you Keep your valuables close and where you

can see them Ask someone in a uniform for help if lostor in trouble (Police officer, bus driver,store clerk, security guard, etc.)

Wear a seatbelt when in a car

Dont

Give money to strangers Show your wallet to anyone who asks

you for money Leave your bag or purse open and/or

unattended Take rides from people you dont know Carry large amounts of money with you Take open drinks from people in bars Leave your drink unattended in a bar


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VANCOUVER/SURREY

The area around Vancouver, including thesuburbs and nearby cities of Surrey, Richmondand Burnaby is known as the Greater VancouverRegional District. Public transportation inGreater Vancouver is provided by Translinkwww.translink.ca.

The Greater Vancouver Regional District isdivided into sections called zones.

Zone 1 includes most of Vancouver,except for anything over the Lions GateBridge.

Zone 2 includes Burnaby, Richmond,North Vancouver, and parts of WestVancouver.

Zone 3 is anything beyond Zone 1 &2including Surrey.

TRANSPORTATION

One of the first things you will have to learn is how to get around. In this section you will findout about transportation in Canada according to the area you will be studying in, Vancouver,

Surrey, Toronto, Victoria and Halifax. For the purpose of transportation Vancouver and Surreyare combined in this section as the Greater Vancouver Regional District.

In this section of your guide you will find the following transportation information:

Public Transportation for Vancouver and Surrey

How to get from Vancouver to Victoria

Public Transportation for Victoria

How to get from Seattle to Victoria

Public Transportation for Toronto

Public Transportation for Halifax

Bikes and bike paths

Remember that it is always a good idea to carry your address and phone number of yourhomestay and the school phone number with you at all times in case you get lost.


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Main bus route to

Trolley Busses / Standard Busses

5

SkyTrainprovides a worry-free and comfortable

commute downtown

5am-12am approx.

Transit

FaresZone 1Zone 2Zone 3

$2.50

$3.75

$5.00

$21.00

$31.50

$42.00

$81

$110

$151

Fare SaverCash Fare Bus Pass

Transfers are free until the time of expiry

Expo line: vancouver to surrey

millenium line: Vancouver to Burnaby

Canada line: Vancouver to Richmond and yvr

Valid for all froms of public transportation in Van

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KGIBC-CTC is only a one block walk

from the Granville SkyTrain Station

RUNS ONINTERVALS

KGIC CampusStops across the street

For KGIC Campus: Burrard Station

HEADINGTO KGIBC-CTC?

SeaBus

minuteFrom North Vancouver to downtown Van

Bicycles are cheap, eco-friendly,and a great way to explore the city

on sunny days. Vancouver has

many bike lanes throughout the city.


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VICTORIAThe bus in Victoria is very easy and convenient to use. Public transportationin Victoria is run by BC Transit. For information about transit in Victoria visitwww.bctransit.com.

Unlike Vancouver, there is no zone division in Victoria. Bus passes and ticketsare available at various convenience stores in the city.

The most common transportaion in Victoria

Monthly pass$74.50 sold on campus

$2.50 $22.50 $7.75

10 Tickets Day PassCash Fare

70 72

Walk on passEnger

It is more convenient to take the Pacific

Coach Line to downtown Vancouver

GOING TO VANCOUVER?

SWARTZ BAY$14.25

Take the public bus to

the ferry terminal at:


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TORONTOPublic transportation in the Greater Toronto Area is provided by the Toronto transitCommission (TTC). You can get information about transit in Toronto from the TTC website,www.ttc.ca. The TTC includes busses, subway and streetcars. Toronto doesnt have transitzones and one fare will allow you to transfer between any of the different forms of public

transportation. There is an extra charge if you use the Express buses.

$3.00

$2.60

$126

Tickets

Cash Fare

MonthlyPass

KGIC is a short walk from Eglinton stationTTC is a 24-hour system

All KGIC students receive a discount price:

SUBWAY

STREETCAR

sAVE $22

6am1:30am

all night routes


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HALIFAX

Main bus route toKGIC CampusRight outside the building:

1 10 20 9Across the street from the building:

5, 10, 20, 41, 59, 68, 80, 81, 82, 1, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 53

MetroXprovides a worry-free and comfortable

commute downtown

TransitFaresAdult

Senior & ChildStudent

$2.25

$1.50

$2.25

$18

$13

$18

$70

$52

$64

10 TicketsCash Fare MetroPass

Transfers are free until the time of expiry

metrox Cash Fares

Adult/Student $3.23 Child/Senior $2.50 Monthly Pass: $100

TAXI Estimated fare for a 6km/10-12 minute cab ride is:

12 DOLLARSHalifax Stanfield International Airport

KGIC Halifax campus is about 34km /35-minute drive from the airport. The

airport has a shuttle service to and from

the city from select hotel locations.

ONE WAY FARERETURN FARE

$19.50$36.00

HSTINCLUDED

IN PRICE

The HRM includes the city of Halifax, the city of Dartmouth and the townof Bedford. Public transportation in the HRM is provided by Metro Transitwww.halifax.ca/metrotransit/schedules.


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BIKE PATHSBicycles are a great way to get around when the weather is nice. If you are going to spenda significant amount of time in Canada you may want to invest in a good used bicycle.Many buses in Canadian cities have racks on the front of the bus for bikes. There are alsonumerous trails and bike lanes for the use of cyclists. Please note it is the law to wear ahelmet while bicycling in Canada.

You can find a Vancouver cycling map and information about cycling in Vancouver on

the Translink website at www.translink.ca. Click on Cycling for maps and information.

For information and cycling maps for Toronto visit www.toronto.ca/cycling/map/index.htm.

For information and cycling maps of Victoria visit www.gvcc.bc.ca/recrides.shtml.

For information and cycling maps of Halifax visithttp://www.halifax.ca/cycling/documents/Bikemap_Hfx_Dartmouth.pdf.


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CANADIAN CUSTOMS& ETIQUETTE

Welcome to Canada!! We are so happy that you have decided to study in ourcountry. There are many things you may have heard about Canada already.

You might have heard that it is a cold country and that we all love wintersports, especially ice hockey (in Canada we just call it hockey). You may haveheard that we say Eh! at the end of our sentences. You may have heardthat Canadians are generally very polite. Perhaps youve heard that Canada isa very accepting and multi-cultural country. Theres some truth to all of thesegeneralities, but thats not all you need to know about Canada, eh!

Living in another country and culture can be a difficult adjustment. Adaptingto a new way of doing things and trying to live in a foreign culture can bea challenge and can lead to culture shock. The best way to overcome thischallenge is to be prepared. In this section of the guide we will go over someof the customs and etiquette in Canada. We hope this will help you as youbegin your fantastic journey of living and studying in Canada.

Customs (noun):The usual way of doing something in agiven situation.

Etiquette (noun):The accepted and proper behaviour insocial situations.

Culture (noun): The behaviours, beliefs and characteristicsof a particular social, ethnic, or age group.

Culture shock (noun):A state of confusion and distressexperienced by an individual who is suddenly exposed toa new, strange or foreign social and cultural environment.

ON THE STREET/AROUND TOWN

There are many things you might notice that are different in Canada whileyou are out and about. Here are a few things to help you while you areexploring around the city.

Walk on the rightWhen walking on the sidewalk, in hallways, up stairwells, in shoppingmalls and anywhere else stay on the right. Canadians both drive andwalk on the right.

Hold the door open for the next personWhen walking out of a busy shopping mall, restaurant, store or anyother place with a lot of people it is customary in Canada to hold thedoor open for the person behind you. This person should take the doorfrom your hand and hold it open for the person behind them. This wayno one has a door close in their face.


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Dont spit in publicIt is very rude to spit in front of other people. In some cities spitting onthe street may even carry a fine. Do not spit in drinking fountains, andif you spit in a sink make sure to rinse it down the drain.

SmokingMost cities in Canada now have a public smoking ban in buildings. Thismeans you cannot smoke inside any building, including restaurants,pubs and bars. Smoking is only permitted outside and you must be

at least 6 meters away from any door or window. Ask at your campuswhere the designated smoking area is located.

Lining-upIt is customary to line-up in Canada when waiting. Do not assume thatyou can go to the front of a line just because you see an open space.Cutting in line is considered to be extremely rude. You can ask theperson at the end of the line, Is this the line for to check if you arein the correct line. This is also a great way to practice your English!

Personal spaceCanada is a wide open country. As a result Canadians have a much

larger area of personal space than you may be used to. You may evennotice a Canadian apologizing to you as they pass by even though heor she never even touched you. This is because they are apologizingfor entering your personal space. Personal space in Canada is aboutthe length of your arm. If you need to pass by someone it is polite tosay, Excuse me.

ON THE BUS

For most students in Canada the bus is the most common form oftransportation. For more information on riding the bus take a look at theTransportation section of this guide. Here are a few points of etiquette tokeep in mind while using public transportation in Canada.

Move to the backIf there are no seats on the bus, make sure you dont stand at the frontof the bus. This will make it more difficult for other passengers trying

to get on the bus. When you get on the bus move yourself as far backas you can. As people exit the bus and space opens up keep movingback so others can get on at the front.

Dont block the exitMake sure you keep the exit doors clear. This may be a tempting areato stand because it is open and has lots of space, but when it comestime for people to exit you will find that you are in the way.

Exit out the back doorsYou should exit out the rear doors of the bus. If you try to exit out thefront this gets in the way of people trying to get on the bus.


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EATING OUT

Give up your seat for the disabled or elderlyGive up your seat for those who need it more than you. It is customaryin Canada to give up a seat for the disabled, elderly, parents with youngchildren and pregnant mothers.

Keep the volume downRemember that the bus is a small public space and sounds carries far.If you are listening to an MP3 player keep the volume down so otherson the bus dont also have to listen to your music. Also if you are

talking on your cell phone or with your friends keep your voice downto a polite level.

One of the great joys of traveling and experiencing another culture is tryingall the different kinds of food. Multiculturalism in Canada also means thatyou can try food from all over the world. Canadians love dining out. Hereare a few tips for you about Canadian eating etiquette.

Calling over your waiter or waitressIt is considered impolite to yell for service in Canada. The acceptedmethod of getting your servers attention is to make eye contact withhim or her and raise your hand.

Table manners

Proper table manners are very important in Canada. Slurping or otherwiseeating noisily is considered impolite. Also chewing food with your mouthopen and eating with your elbows on the table are considered to bepoor table manners.

Please and Thank YouWhen asking for food, drinks or any other requests or service it is politein Canada to end your request with a please. For example May I havesome more water, please? Similarly it polite to say Thank you whenreceiving your food or having your request met. General politeness andusing please and thank you will go a long way in bridging the culturegap. If you dont use please your server may think you are being rude

and the service you receive wont be as good.


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Practice your EnglishEating out is a great chance for you to practice your English. Try notto simply point at items on the menu. It is especially rude to point atwhat someone is having at another table. By making an effort at beingpolite and asking for something you are showing your interest in theculture and your server will appreciate you for it.

Be aware of others

Remember you are not the only one in the restaurant. When in a smallgroup be careful to not be too loud. Remember that a foreign languagesounds much louder than English to Canadians as they are not used tohearing it. What may seem like a normal volume in your country couldbe very considered very loud to Canadians.

TippingIn Canada we generally tip at the end of a meal. The standard amountof a tip is 15%. Remember that both the tax and the tip are not includedin the price of your meal, so dont be surprised if your bill is a little bitmore than you expected. If you are genuinely not happy with the serviceyou received then it is okay not to tip.

IN THE BATHROOMHygiene is important to us all. There are a few points about bathroometiquette that may be useful for you to know.

Using the toilet

Of course you should flush the toilet after you use it. Plumbingin countries can be different though, so you may find somedifferences.

Put used toilet paper in the toilet and flush it. Do not put it inthe garbage.

Wrap feminine hygiene products in tissue and put in thegarbage. Do not flush them down the toilet as they can clogthe plumbing.

Standing on the toilet is dangerous. Do not stand or squat onthe toilet.

Place the toilet seat down after using it. Wipe any drips off the

seat when done.

Taking a shower A few points on showering in Canada. If you are living with other

people please respect their bathing products. Some shampoos,soaps and cleansers can be quite expensive.

Use the shower curtain. Some countries have a drain on thebathroom floor and are used to showering without a showercurtain or door. In Canada this is not the case. It is veryimportant that you use the shower curtain. Make sure that theshower curtain is inside the bathtub or water will still sprayout onto the floor.


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IN YOUR HOMESTOAY

OR DORMITORY

Keep it short. If you are living in a house the water heater maytake some time before heating the water up again. Keep yourshower short to save hot water and to give time for others inthe house to use it.

Clean up after yourself. Rinse any soap scum down the drain.Stand on a bathmat to dry yourself and wipe up any water thatmay drip onto the floor.

Using deodorant, perfume and cologne. Using deodorant to cover

up any body odours is polite. However, if you use perfume orcologne use very little. Some people are very sensitive to smells,and in general Canadians do not like strong, over poweringodours.

At the sink Proper etiquette around sinks in public washrooms is very

important. Always try and think about the person who will beusing the sink after you. Take a look at the sink and countertop around the sink after using it and ask yourself if you wouldbe happy to use it.

Dont spit or blow your nose in the sink. Use tissue paper toblow your nose and dispose of it in the garbage.

Wash your hands after using the toilet.

Dont dump leftover food or noodles down the sink drain.

Wipe up the counter around the sink after using it.

For many students it is an adjustment to live with a new group of people,especially when the people are from very different backgrounds and cultures.Be respectful to those around you and remember to follow the rules of thehomestay or dormitory. Also if you are staying in a homestay, rememberthat all Canadians immigrated from somewhere. Canadians come frommany different backgrounds, cultures and ethnicity. It is very rude tosuggest someone is not Canadian just because their family does not havea European background.

Dont be shy. You will enjoy yourself and your time in Canadamore if you can be friendly with the people you live with. Its also

a good way to practice your English. Dont use without asking. Get permission before using computers,

internet, washing machines, etc. If you are not sure how to usesomething ask. It is much better to ask a question than to makea mistake and end up breaking something. Remember to showrespect for the property of others.

Use a phone card for long distance phone calls. Charging yourphone calls to your homestay familys telephone is very disrespectful.

Clean up after yourself. There is no personal maid service as partof your homestay or dormitory agreement. Nobody likes a dirtyspace so help out and keep your living space clean.


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Studying in Canada is a great way for you to meet people from all over theworld. We want you to get the most out of your education in Canada. Here

are a few points about classroom etiquette Ask questions! Dont be afraid to ask a question in class, especially if

you dont understand. Chances are that someone else in the class mightwant to know the same thing. However you should keep your questionslimited to the class or topic being discussed. The teacher is there forall the students, not as your personal tutor. If you have a question thatis not related to the subject or lesson, wait until the class is finishedand ask your teacher if he or she minds answering a question for you.

If you dont understand something someone says or were not able tohear what they said the polite way to express this is to say Pardonor Excuse me, could you repeat that please? Saying only what? orwhy? is considered to be impolite.

Turn your cell phone off before class and dont text message duringclass time.

Dont talk over the teacher or other students. It is considered impoliteto not let someone finish speaking.

Be prepared for class. You should have your notebooks and writingmaterials with you when you come to class.

Participate!!! Raise your hand if you know an answer. Speak up anddont be shy.

Have fun!!!

IN THE CLASSROOMAND AT SCHOOL


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YOUR FIRST DAY AT KGICYour first day (Intake Day) in a new school can be an exciting and nervoustime. Some preparation can help you reduce stress.

Here are some tips for your first day:

Get plenty of sleep and eat a good breakfast. You cannot do your best if youare tired.Learn the route to KGIC before your first day. You should find out:

What bus to use? Do you have to change busses? Where to get on the bus? Where to get off the bus? What time should I leave?

Your homestay family, roommate, or KGIC House Mate can help you. You canalso use your computer to log onto your local public transportation website.(See the Transportation section in this guide on page ###)

Please arrive early. 8:15am! Please remember that often there are manynew students at one time.

Check in! Please let us know you are here.

Thing to bring:

Copies of your Passport and Medical insurance. Your letter of acceptance Something to drink, or a water bottle. A pen Lunch. Lunchtime is a good time to make some new friends!

On your first day at KGIC, you should expect to stay with us for most ofthe day. Depending on the number of new students that arrive, you mightnot be finished until 3:30pm. We basically have 2 kinds of Intake Day: BigIntake Day and Small Intake Days. We receive most of our new studentson the first Monday of the month (Big Intake Day). Other days are muchsmaller (Small Intake days). The schedules basically work like this, but theactual times may vary.

Your first day is over.You will be given either on the same day ( small

intake of new students) your class levels andbooks or you will be asked to come back thenext day to pick up your sheet with your levelsand classes for this month and your books.

Congratulations and welcome to KGIC.We wish you a successful and memorable staywith us!


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USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS& WEBSITES

TORONTOHALIFAX

KGIC HalifaxAddress 400-1791 Barrington StreetPhone: 905-422- 5442Website: http://www.kgic.ca/campus-

halifax.html

Metro Transit Lost and Found:905-490-6617

Route Info www.halifax.ca/metrotransit schedules

Casino Taxi Phone: 429-6666 or 425-6666

Nova Scotia TourismWebsite: www.novascotia.com

Halifax Tourism Website: http://www.halifax.ca/visitors.asp

General Halifax Info:

http://www.novascotia.com/en/home/planyourtrip/faqs/generalinformation.aspx

PoliceFire 911Ambulance

Halifax International AirportWebsite: http://www.hiaa.ca/

KGIC TorontoAddress 150 Eglinton Avenue East KGIC 7th floorPhone: 416-489-0540Website: http://www.kgic.ca/campus-toronto.html

Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) Lost and Found: 416-393-4100

Route Info http://www3.ttc.ca/Routes/index.jsp

Taxi Service Phone: 416-979-7001 (Canada Taxi) 416-366-6868 (Diamond Taxi) 647-547-7451 (Toronto Airport Limo Taxi)

Ontario TourismWebsite: http://www.ontariotravel.netToronto TourismWebsite: http://www.seetorontonow.comGeneral Toronto Info:

http://www.toronto.ca/visitors/index.htm


Pearson International AirportWebsite: http://www.gtaa.com


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VANCOUVER/SURREY VICTORIA

KGIC Vancouver/Surrey

KGIC SurreyAddress #200 - 10524 King George Hwy.Phone: 604-930 5161Website: http://www.kgic.ca/city-surrey.html

KGIC VancouverAddress 201-1400 Robson StreetPhone: 604-608 1135Website: http://www.kgic.ca/city-vancouver.html

Translink Lost and Found: 604-682-7887

Route Info http://www.translink.ca/

Surdell-Kennedy Taxi Phone: 604- 588-8888(Surrey)

Yellow Cab Phone: 604-681-1111(Vancouver)

B.C. TourismWebsite: www.hellobc.com

Vancouver TourismWebsite: www.tourismvancouver.com

Surrey ToursimWebsite: www.surreytourism.ca


Vancouver International AirportWebsite: www.yvr.ca

KGIC VictoriaAddress 31 Bastion SquarePhone: 250-383-5464Website: http://www.kgic.ca/city-victoria.html

Victoria Bus Lost and Found:250-995-5637

Route Info: www.busonline.ca/regions/vic

Victoria Taxi Phone: 250-383-7111

B.C. Tourism Website:www.hellobc.com

Victoria TourismWebsite: www.tourismvictoria.com


Victoria AirportWebsite: www.victoriaairport.com


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SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE

We hope your stay in Canada will be full of wonderful moments that last for a lifetime fromthe beginning to the end.

If you feel that your experience was a great and broadened your horizon, please share it withus and future students who do not know if they should go and study abroad.

We of course do think a study abroad experience is a life changing experience and will enrichyour life on all levels. To be able to speak, write and communicate in English is one of the mostimportant things these days to help you to find a better job, and advance your career. Pair thiswith experience in another culture and your future employer will view you in a different light.

You can send us your feedback anytime ( even 10 years later); We love to hear from our exstudents. If possible send us a picture with it and perhaps let us know where you work orhow your stay with us helped you back in your country.

[email protected] Subject: Testimonial.

E-MAIL:[email protected] contact us by e-mail for any additional questions orcomments that you might have, before, during or after yourcourses. We are looking forward to hearing from you and tostaying in touch with you!

ON FACEBOOK:http://www.facebook.com/kgicgroupInterested in our activities and meeting students that are

currently enlisted or have completed programs at KGIC? Visitus on our facebook page to find out more!

ON TWITTER:http://twitter.com/kgicJoin us on Twitter to find out more about our current activitiesand to get the latest news about KGIC.

ON YOUTUBE:http://www.youtube.com/user/kgicvideosFind out more about our campuses, programs, activities

and students by watching our movie channel on Youtube.

ON SLIDESHARE:http://www.slideshare.net/kgicFollow us on Slideshare and watch presentations about KGIC,brochures, general info, and our activity calendars and more.

Documents

KGIC Pre Departure Guide English