INTERNeX Canada: Culture Shock

Why are the Canadians so friendly and polite? I can’t understand!

I already knew before arrive in Canada that they are kind people, but, when the first day I arrived at the airport, and there wasn’t any barrier to enter into the skytrain… I was surprised that everybody paid for their ticket and there wasn’t people trying to pass for free…

Well, they have a strong sense of citizenship but they have a strong sense of punishment too. The police can fine you for crossing the street in red or eating inside the skytrain. So, be careful!

Other thing that suprised me is the fact that all the sellers smile to you and say:”How are you?” and “Have a nice day” all the time! And no one gets off the bus without saying first to the driver “Thank you so much”. And they are SO comprehensive if you don’t understand something… Vancouver have a lot of diferents cultures, so they are very accustomed to listen diferent accents.

Of course, you can also find some rude people, specially in big cities like Vancouver but…  not in general, so smile and reply: “fine, thank you, and you?”

Cheers,
Clara.

INTERNeX International Exchange
Suite 200 – 211 Columbia Street
Vancouver BC -V6A 2R5-
Web: http://www.internexcanada.com
Phone: +1 (604) 662 8149
Email: pr@internexcanada.com

Celebration of Light Festival

Wednesday’s Vancouver’s streets and corners were filled with people wanting to see the annual Celebration of Light Festival happening at English Bay.

Since 1990, Vancouver has been home to the Celebration of Light (originally known as the Symphony of Fire). This international pyro-musical fireworks competition has attracted the world’s leading fireworks designers and is seen as a highly prestigious event. The fireworks festival creates an exciting arena where spectators can enjoy each country’s representatives unveil their latest techniques and use the most innovative fireworks materials as they compete to be crowned the winner.

Didn’t get the chance to see Wednesday’s show? No worries, you have three more opportunities! Meet other INTERNeX candidates this Saturday for another viewing of the Fireworks. We will meet up at the Starbucks behind the laughing statue in English Bay at 7 pm! Bring a good book, a game and a blanket because it will be a wait and can get a bit cold after the sun goes down!

Saturday, July 24, 2010 – London Drugs presents Spain Night

Wednesday, July 28, 2010 – HSBC presents Mexico Night

Saturday, July 31, 2010 – Concord Pacific presents A Tribute to China

Listed as one of the “Best Eight City Breaks in the World” by Condé Nast Traveler magazine, Vancouver offers thrilling adventure, exciting entertainment, festivals and events, shopping, gourmet delights, sights and attractions throughout the year. Visit tourismvancouver.com, Vancouver’s official tourism bureau website to find all the information and tools you need to plan your perfect vacation.

Dining Choices

Vancouver’s restaurant scene has exploded in the past few years offering world-class cuisine from every corner of the globe. Fine dining, casual or family-friendly restaurants are easily accessible throughout Greater Vancouver. Browse the many dining options available to you and make your reservations online. Reservations are free, instant, and confirmed.

~ The INTERNeX Girls

Dinner & Entertainment – The Sultan’s Tent in Toronto

If you live in or near Toronto this is for you! While working and traveling within Canada, it can be hard to find an enjoyable evening that isn’t too expensive. One hot spot for a great night out is The Sulta’s Tent at 49 Front Street East in downtown. This restaurant can provide you with a full belly –  and belly dancing!

With many options for a four course meal, you’re guaranteed a relaxing dinner in an amazing atmosphere, but that’s not all. During your meal, the Sultan’s Tent provides belly dancing shows. I have a friend that had dinner there and while she admitted the dinner was amazing, she really enjoyed getting some belly dancing lessons by the performers! For a printable version of their menu, click here.

Belly Dancing Performances:

Sundays 6:15 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.
Mondays to Thursdays 6:45 p.m. and 9:15 p.m.
Fridays and Saturdays 6:15 p.m., 8:45 p.m and 11:00 p.m.

For those of you attending the Toronto International Jazz Festival, you could also check out the Sultan’s tent during a performance by Suzana Da Camara. For more information on this event, visit the event section of the Sultan’s Tent website.

History

For decades, the original Sultan’s Tent at Bay and Yorkville entertained groups of diners in Toronto seeking an evening of entertainment, good food, romance and fun in a transporting traditional Moroccan experience.

The original Sultan’s Tent was closed in 2002 when its location was slated for demolition to make way for a high-rise. Purchased from the original “Sultan”, Nagi (now retired),  The Sultan’s Tent & Café Moroc has been relocated at a splendid new oasis at 49 Front Street East in downtown Toronto.

Glowing on the wall near the entrance to The Sultan’s Tent is a magnificent hand woven rug, a gift of the present King of Morocco’s father, Hassan II, who inspired a renaissance in the country’s arts and crafts. We thank the recipient’s son for letting it grace our wall. As far back as history is recorded, Northwest Africa and the Barbery Coast of pirate lore has been at the geographical and cultural crossroads of Europe, Africa and the Middle East. The result is an intoxicating blend of cultures.

The indigenous Berbers, plus Arabian, Spanish, English and French influences have created a tantalizing mix of craft, culture and cuisine in one of the world’s most artistic nations, Morocco. In the 19th century, many European artists were drawn to Morocco’s luxurious interiors, exotic costume and lavish hospitality. They recorded them in paintings that are marvellous invitations to other lands and other times. These and many other images, modern and historical, blend in our impressions of a mythical, magical Morocco.

Moroccan traditions of hospitality were born of the Berbers’ nomadic life. A Sultan (Prince or ruler) would have a beautifully decorated tent with intimate alcoves, and these were echoed when they built even more lavish royal palaces. The Sultan’s Tent evokes the setting of a traditional “diffa” (lavish) banquet) at which all are welcome and where the dining philosophy was one of abundance.A sense of ritual hospitality, combined with regally prepared traditional dishes, earned the host his reputation.

We hope some of you get the chance to experience a relaxing evening at the Sultan’s Tent, while enjoying superb food and delightful entertainment among good friends. For more information on events and activities near you, visit the INTERNeX Events and Activities page.

– Laura