Fine examples of Canadian craftware are available, such as art woodcarvings, pottery, cottons and native artifacts. Some countries have restrictions against the import of endangered animal species products, such as polar bear, seal, walrus etc, so visitors should check entry regulations in their home country before departure. A 7 per cent goods and service tax (GST) is levied on most goods and services in Canada. In addition, most provinces (except Alberta, Northwest Territories and Yukon) levy a provincial service tax (PST) of 5 to 7 per cent in shops, restaurants and short-term accommodation. In the provinces of Newfoundland, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, a 15 per cent harmonized sales tax (HST) has replaced the GST and PST.

Shopping hours
Mon-Sat 0900-1800, with late-night shopping in some stores Thur-Fri, up to 2100. Some shops and stores are also open on Sunday, and some are open 24 hours a day.

Currency Information:

Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD; symbol C$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of C$100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of C$2 and 1, and 25, 10, 5 and 1 cents.

Credit/Debit Cards and ATMs
Major credit cards are widely accepted.

Traveller's Cheques
To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveller’s cheques in Canadian Dollars; these are widely negotiable.

Banking Hours
Mon-Fri 0930-1600/1700 with extended hours in some locations. Business accounts can only be set up on presentation of a letter of credit from a home bank.

Exchange Rate Indicators