Written by Gabriela Estrada

Latino migrants, have you ever noticed the cultural world behind the extreme cold typical of Canada? The warmth and traditions of our America are so different from those of this country that it is worth discovering them for a better adaptation to the Canadian style. From manners and food to the way of looking at life, these contrasts show us how diverse and peculiar our humanity is. 

This is today's theme for the blog of Planeta Immilandthe first language school for migratory purposes to Canada. I must remind you that this country is officially bilingual, English and French are spoken here, that is the first difference that must be recognized to understand their cultural differences and adapt, so I invite you to read this article with me because I know you will like it. Let's start!

Canadian vs. Latin American culture

Foreigners newly arrived in Canada often experience a mixture of enthusiasm with uncertainty and curiosity to know what Canadians are like and what customs they have. To clear up any doubts, here is a comparison between Canadian customs and those of our beloved Latin America:

• Meal times

• In Canada, people tend to eat lunch at noon and dinner around 5:00 pm. This may be surprisingly early for many Latin American immigrants accustomed to later hours.

• In Latin America, meals are usually later in the day. Lunch is an important part of the day. Also, in our home countries, dinner is between 7:00 and 10:00 at night. For us, dinner is light and family-style, and compensates well for a hectic day of work or school activities.

• Physical contact

• In Canada, a large personal space is preferred. Social interactions tend to be more discreet and less effusive, but not cold and disinterested.

• In Latin America, it is common to greet with a kiss or a strong hug. For us, physical contact is very necessary, it is an expression of closeness and affection.

• Courtesy and warmth

• In Canada, they usually apologize for everything. Even if they don't make any mistakes, it is common to hear a sorry (in everyday situations.

A very curious custom of Canadians is to leave their shoes at the entrance of the house. This is done for reasons of cleanliness, courtesy and respect for the host's home. As migrants, you should know that, when visiting a Canadian home, this will be seen as a gesture of courtesy. So do not forget to always remove your shoes at the entrance.

• In Latin America, simple and innocuous mistakes can be taken as a joke and let pass, but, once you are a resident in Canada, it is better to apologize even when it is not necessary, so you will be better understood in front of the Canadians.

• Listen to two languages at the same time

• In Canada, English and French are officially spoken. In some regions, such as Quebec, French is predominant. In the vast majority of provinces, English is spoken.
• In our Latin America, there is also a diversity of languages, because not only Spanish is spoken, but also Portuguese is widespread. The Quechua language is still alive and is spoken, although in a smaller proportion than Spanish, in regions of Peru, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, among other countries. This also serves as a way to understand Canadian bilingualism with an open mind, multilingualism resides in both latitudes!

• Favorite sport

• In Canada, the culture of ice hockey is very present. More than a sport, ice hockey is almost the national soul of Canadians. They follow ice hockey games with fervor and take pride in their local teams. Every immigrant in Canada can learn a little bit of this sport to connect with the native inhabitant. Practicing English by talking about this topic is an excellent idea to improve the language and make Canadian friends.

• In Latin America, we cannot talk about sports without mentioning soccer, baseball, volleyball, among others. All of them arouse a furor in our Latin population and are usually a means of gathering for friends and entire families.

• Typical food

• In Canada, they love poutine (french fries with cheese and gravy), the butter tart (a sweet pastry), the maple syrup (maple syrup) and the tourtière (meat pie). In addition, salmon and seafood are an essential part of the Canadian diet.

• In Latin America, gastronomy is a delight for the senses. From arepas in Venezuela to tacos in Mexico, ceviche in Peru, the feijoada in Brazil and pupusas in El Salvador! Undoubtedly, the typical foods of both regions are very different, but delicious.

• Multiculturalism in Canada

• Canada is a country known for its multiculturalism and has adopted good cultural integration policies, which means that immigrants can maintain their roots while adapting to Canadian life.

• The Latin American immigrant can rest assured that things will definitely not change, rather, here there is always room to continue conversing in Spanish with other Spanish-speaking foreigners, which keeps the familiar warmth of our land alive.

• Values and attitudes

• In Canada, punctuality, courtesy and equality are valued. Canadian society tends to be more individualistic and less hierarchical.

• In Latin America, the importance of family, friendship and community is more prominent. For us, interpersonal relationships are fundamental. That is why Latino immigrants in Canada tend to leave traces of affection and gratitude, and that attitude is well rewarded by a cordial Canadian society that welcomes us with open arms and makes us part of its interesting and beautiful culture.

If you are ever thinking of moving to a multicultural country, I recommend Canada. Just remember that to communicate effectively and better understand their culture, it is important to speak English or French well.

Do you need help to improve your language level and adapt to Canada's multicultural environment? Our Planeta Immiland school offers the best courses for accelerated learning. You can explore the English courses from scratchamong other programs, and start acquiring the communication skills necessary for life in Canada.

Thanks for reading, see you in the next blog!

With love,

Planet Immiland