Visiting a new part of the world can sometimes feel like walking into an entirely new planet. Often, our worldview gets challenged, our knowledge expands, and naturally, we compare the experience to what we know.
I'm an American, but I've been splitting time in Canada, where my partner lives, for the past three years. Culture shocks have hit me more than I imagined — especially in Québec, which already feels like its own little country within Canada. One interesting shock — I feel people here really work to live, not live to work. I felt an immediate calmness here after living in the hustle and bustle of New York City.
Also some fun ones: Canadians don't have Venmo. Imagine the confusion when I asked someone, "Can I Venmo you?" They use Interac, which is connected through their banks. It's much easier IMO. And, Canadians don't take your card from you at a restaurant. They bring the reader right to the table. And they split checks with absolutely no issue!
The responses were fascinating — and they came from all over the world (not just North America or Europe)! Here's what everyone had to say:
And lastly:
18.
