Ottawa is a clean, attractive, modern city similar in many respects to U.S. cities of comparative size. In January 2001, the City of Ottawa and most of its sister suburban communities were amalgamated for a total of 850,000 residents with a total metropolitan area population of about 1 million. It is not, however, a capital district like the District of Columbia, and the Federal Government is merely the area’s largest business. The lack of significant language or cultural barriers permits Embassy personnel of all levels to become more readily integrated into the local community than is possible at most national capitals. The city offers numerous cultural advantages; the climate is healthful and bracing; and the area abounds in opportunities for outdoor activities and family recreation.

Canada’s membership in NATO and NORAD; our long, common border; shared environmental concerns; and the extensive economic, financial, cultural, and commercial ties between the U.S. and Canada assure a challenging and rewarding tour for personnel assigned here. Canadians are similar in outlook to Americans in many respects, but there are differences about which they are proud.

The Host Country

Area, Geography, and Climate Last Updated: 12/4/2003 8:50 AM

The world’s second largest country in land area (3,851,809 square miles), Canada is bordered on the north by the Arctic Ocean, on the northeast by the Atlantic Ocean, on the south by the U.S., and on the west by the Pacific Ocean and Alaska.

Much of Canada’s industry is concentrated in the southeast near the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River, in an environment similar to adjacent areas of the U.S. To the northeast is the rolling Appalachian country of southern Quebec, the Maritime Provinces, and the Island of Newfoundland.

Canada’s most outstanding physical feature is the Shield, a rugged area of pre-Cambrian rock that surrounds Hudson Bay and covers most of eastern and central Canada — almost half the country. This semi-barren area and the Arctic Archipelago to the north are sparsely populated and, as yet, largely undeveloped.

Another distinctive major region is the Canadian Prairie, an extension of the midcontinent Great Plains. This area lies between the western border of the Shield and the Canadian Rockies. It is the Canadian breadbasket and an area that is also rich in petroleum, gas, and other mineral resources.

Far Western Canada, comprising most of British Columbia, is laced with towering mountain ranges. Most people there live on the temperate southwest coast and Vancouver Island.

The climate varies greatly in the many diversified regions ranging from frigid to mild, but Canada generally may be described as lying in the cool Temperate Zone, with long, cold winters.

Population Last Updated: 12/4/2003 8:51 AM

Roughly 90% of Canada’s nearly 32 million people live within 100 miles of the U.S. border. Canadians and Americans are not “just alike,” however, as many observers often assume. The Canadian character and outlook have been forged from a distinctive historical and social background, which has produced a Canadian way of life that flourishes in a sovereign nation. Modern Canada draws on a rich multicultural heritage. The two largest groups are of British and French background with smaller percentages of practically every other nationality. The last few decades have added large numbers of East Indian and Oriental groups.

Those Canadians who are of neither British nor French origin, now about 50% of the total population, comprise mainly Germans, Ukrainians, Scandinavians, Italians, Dutch, Poles, Chinese, Indians, and Pakistanis. Aboriginals make up about 1% of the population. One out of eight Canadians was not born in Canada. Canada’s more than 6.5 million French-speaking citizens are mainly descendants of colonists who began settling Canada three centuries ago. They are concentrated in the Province of Quebec, although about 20% live in other parts of the country, mainly Ontario and New Brunswick. Manitoba also has a significant French-speaking community.

The English-speaking population has been built up by immigration from the British Isles and, more recently, other European countries. The largest influx from the U.S. occurred during the American Revolution when thousands of “Empire Loyalists” fled to Canada; most settled in “Upper Canada,” composed of southern and southeastern Ontario.

Religion plays an important though diminishing role in the life of Canadians. Over 40% are Roman Catholics. The largest Protestant denomination, about 17% of the population, is the United Church of Canada — a union of Methodists, Congregationalists, and Presbyterians. About 10% are Anglicans, with Presbyterians, Lutherans, Baptists, and Jews next in order.

Public Institutions Last Updated: 12/4/2003 8:53 AM

Canada’s parliamentary system of government reflects both its Old World heritage and its North American experience. The British North America Act of 1867, as amended, and The Canada Act and Constitution Act of 1982 provide a written constitution, but many of the country’s legal and parliamentary practices are based on unwritten custom as in Great Britain.

Queen Elizabeth II is Canada’s Head of State. Her personal representative in Canada is the Governor General, whom she appoints on advice of the Canadian Prime Minister, usually for a 5-year term.

Parliament consists of the Crown, the Senate, and the House of Commons — the latter clearly having the dominant voice in legislation. Its 301 Members are elected for terms that may not exceed 5 years. The Senate’s 105 Members are appointed by the Governor General on the advice of the Prime Minister and hold office until mandatory retirement at age 75. In keeping with Westminster practice, both Houses hold daily Question Periods during which Opposition Members challenge Government ministers with often sharply worded queries.

The Executive consists of a Cabinet, headed by the Prime Minister, who is the leader of the political party in power. The Cabinet remains in power as long as it retains majority support in the House of Commons on major issues.

Provincial government is patterned much along the lines of the central government. A premier and a single, elected legislative chamber govern each province. A Lieutenant Governor, appointed by the Governor General, represents the Crown.

Criminal law is uniform throughout the nation and is largely based on British law. Civil law is based on English Common Law, except in Quebec; there, civil law derives from the Napoleonic Code. Federal, provincial, and municipal courts administer justice.

Federal politics in Canada was transformed by the election of October 1993. The governing Progressive Conservative Party was overwhelmingly voted out of office following 9 years in power and the Liberals received a substantial majority. The Liberal Party has won three subsequent elections, the latest in 2000. The Alliance Party, with its roots in Western Canada, is the official opposition party in the Commons. The next largest party is the Bloc Quebecois which favors independence for Quebec. The Progressive Conservatives and the New Democratic Party narrowly retained official status as they are represented by fewer than 16 members each.

Arts, Science, and Education Last Updated: 12/4/2003 8:56 AM

The development of the arts in Canada reflects not only the country’s culture and geography but also bears the imprint of a rapidly growing country as well. The existence of two dominant cultural traditions — French and English — has led to diversity in the arts. Focal points of artistic activity have grown in several metropolitan centers scattered about the country.

Since World War II, economic growth has given Canadians greater means to practice and enjoy the arts, and the influx of immigrants has increased even further the pool of available talent.

All provincial governments, through various departments, agencies, or educational institutions, provide some assistance for professional and amateur artists within their borders. The federally and privately funded Canada Council administers a similar program on a national level. Well-known artistic groups include, among many others, the Stratford Festival Company, the Montreal and Toronto Symphonies, Toronto’s Canadian Opera Company, and the Winnipeg Ballet. All of these groups tour extensively throughout North America and, occasionally, abroad.

A technologically advanced nation, Canada is committed to the advancement of science. Most major research projects reflect the increasingly interdependent industrial, university, and government laboratories. Likewise, considerable scientific cooperation is undertaken with other nations, especially the U.S. and the U.K. The National Research Council, a Federal Agency, carries out the most diversified program of scientific research. On the other hand, universities conduct most basic medical research.

Education at both the elementary and secondary levels is considered to be roughly equivalent with U.S. schools, although significant differences exist among education in each Canadian province and additionally between schools within the same district or city. Education allowances to varying degrees are authorized for both elementary and secondary levels. Education at both the elementary and secondary levels should be researched carefully before arrival at post, particularly with reference to children with special needs.

Education at the elementary and secondary level is the responsibility of provincial governments; curriculums and teacher qualifications vary widely. In all provinces, public education is free. Ages of mandatory attendance vary from province to province, but are generally from 7 to 15.

In Halifax and Vancouver, free public education is controlled and funded by public school boards, as in the U.S. Private schools also exist at these posts and charge tuition.

At the other Canadian posts, free public education is funded and controlled locally by two types of boards — either “public” or “separate.” Except in Ontario and Quebec, the public boards are nondenominational and reflect a Protestant and English historical development; the separate boards are Roman Catholic. In Quebec, public boards are divided into those for French- and English-speaking children and are nondenominational. Public education is funded from property taxes. In non-French-speaking areas, elementary schools require 40 minutes of French instruction a day. This is mandatory except for kindergarten, which is 20 minutes a day. Many local school districts also offer an optional immersion program, beginning in kindergarten that offers instruction totally in French, until English is gradually phased in, in the third or fourth grade. At posts outside Quebec, French usually becomes optional after grade 9 at the secondary level, and is offered along with other languages, such as German and Spanish.

In English-speaking schools in Quebec, French is a required subject at all levels.

Canada’s 60 universities range from small liberal arts institutions with as few as 1,000 students, to very large universities (made up of colleges, faculties, and research institutions) with enrollments as high as 35,000. Most colleges and universities instruct in English; several institutions in Quebec instruct in French only. There are also numerous community colleges, usually called technical schools.

Commerce and Industry Last Updated: 12/4/2003 8:57 AM

The Canadian economy is highly developed, giving Canadians one of the highest standards of living in the world. Manufacturing is concentrated in transportation and communications equipment, engineering, steel, and consumer goods. Especially notable is the production of motor vehicles and parts, encouraged by an automobile trade agreement between the U.S. and Canada. Most manufacturing is concentrated in Ontario and Quebec. Alberta is particularly strong in industries related to oil and natural gas. Primary industries built on Canada’s rich natural resources remain an important part of the economy and a major source of exports. Leading resource industries are: forest products; oil, natural gas, and hydroelectric power; grains and other agricultural products; mining of asbestos, potash, and nonferrous metals; and fishing. As in other developed countries, the service sector is growing rapidly. Ottawa is now regarded as the Silicon Valley of Canada, and Canada has one of the highest rates of Internet connectivity in the world. The economy is closely linked by trade and investment with other countries, especially the merchandise trade, roughly 80% of which is with the U.S., representing nearly 60% of the GDP. Considerable two-way direct investment flows between the U.S. and Canada, although the level of U.S. investment in Canada is higher, as is its relative importance in the economy.

Americans will find that most products and services available in the U.S. are also available in Canada. Local prices are often higher than in the U.S. but in some cases this may be offset by a favorable exchange rate for the Canadian dollar.

Transportation

Automobiles Last Updated: 12/4/2003 9:04 AM

In spite of extensive public transport arrangements, Canada is as much an automobile society as is the U.S., so most American personnel have their own cars. All American automobile manufacturers have plants in Canada, producing standard North American vehicles. These manufacturers share the greater portion of the automobile market in Canada. Most European and Japanese models found in the U.S. are also sold in Canada. Spare parts are available for all U.S.- and Canadian-manufactured vehicles, as well as for major European and Japanese models. Repair facilities in major cities compare with those in the U.S. Service problems may be encountered with some European and Japanese cars outside the major cities where dealerships are established, but most cars can be serviced readily except in some remote areas.

Except in Vancouver, all employees should have their cars protected against the severe winter driving conditions encountered here. Have your car rust proofed (in addition to factory undercoating), especially if purchased new, as cars are subject to severe corrosion from the chemicals and salt used on the streets in winter. A heavy-duty battery, car heater (with a 180-degree thermostat), and a rear window defroster are recommended. Electrical block heaters and battery heaters are also a good investment, especially for vehicles not parked overnight in a heated garage.

U.S. grades of gasoline are widely available. Gasoline is sold in liters. Safety standards for cars are similar in the U.S. and Canada. Left-hand-drive vehicles are standard; traffic moves on the right. International highway symbols are used in Canada, and distances are in metric. Seatbelts and infant/child seat restraints are mandatory and fines are imposed for non-use in all Canadian provinces.

If you plan to purchase a new vehicle and you have duty-free import privileges, you may decide to order a new car directly from the manufacturer. In some cases it is cheaper to accept delivery of a Canadian-produced North American car in the U.S. Your decision may also include exchange rate fluctuations. All official personnel (diplomatic and nondiplomatic) may import one or more duty-free vehicles for their personal use. Diplomatic and nondiplomatic personnel may not sell their motor vehicles in Canada unless they have modified them to conform to Canadian specifications; paid Transport Canada to verify that the modifications were completed properly; and pay customs duties and taxes assessed at the vehicle’s fair market value as of the date of importation — not the date of sale. Ensure that the car meets Canadian specifications as well as U.S. specifications if it is to be returned to the U.S. Generally, automobiles purchased in Canada or the U.S. do not meet each other’s standards and cannot be imported into Canada or reexported to the U.S. without modification. Personnel would be well advised to consider these factors, among others, and should check with the post’s general services officer or admin officer before making a purchase commitment. Employees with older automobiles should write the Embassy general services officer or the Administrative Section at the Consulate General to determine if modifications can be made locally.

Licensing and registration are provincial responsibilities and are carried out as in the U.S. Proof of insurance is required to register vehicles. The Embassy and Consulates General assist in this. Please bring a valid drivers license with you. It makes getting a Canadian one easier.

Automobile insurance covering public liability and property damage is compulsory throughout Canada (USAA is accepted). Some subsidiaries of U.S. and British insurance companies are available in Canada. A few American companies will underwrite directly for U.S. Government personnel stationed in Canada, depending on the province in which one resides. The insuring company must have a registered agent in the province in which the car is to be registered. The required amount of insurance coverage varies from province to province. The post recommends employees obtain $1,000,000 Canadian liability coverage since several recent court settlements have approached that amount. See individual posts for provincial requirements. The Administrative Section of the individual posts can advise employees of the current insurance requirements for that province. Gasoline is nearly twice as expensive in Ontario than at upstate New York stations. Accredited employees may obtain credit cards through the Embassy, valid at a variety of gasoline stations, which allow the company to deduct the provincial fuel taxes from the monthly bill.

Ottawa. All personnel receive provincial drivers’ licenses upon presentation of a valid license, a letter of recognition and an identity card (the last two are issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs), and a vision examination at the Department of Motor Vehicles. Diplomatic, consular corps, and support staff are issued appropriate automobile plates at no charge upon presentation of a letter of recognition and an identity card. Rental cars are available at competitive prices. The public bus system in Ottawa is also quite good.

Calgary. All Consulate General personnel must obtain Alberta drivers licenses which are valid for 5 years. The fee for the license is $30. Post strongly recommends employees obtain $1,000,000 Canadian liability coverage since several recent court settlements have approached that amount. Under recent legislation vehicles must be covered by an Alberta insurer.

Alberta provides all incoming consular personnel with no-fee provincial driver’s licenses and free consular license plates for all personally owned vehicles. Liability insurance is mandatory and must be purchased from an insurance company licensed to do business in Alberta. Some U.S. insurance companies will issue insurance certificates that are valid in Alberta.

Halifax. Newly assigned personnel may use their out-of-province drivers licenses for 90 days, after which a Nova Scotia permit is required. In most cases, holders of a valid U.S. driver’s license will take only the written driver’s test. Drivers’ permits are issued for a 5-year period at a cost of C$49. A driver is permitted only one valid driver’s license — the old license is taken at the time the Nova Scotia driver’s license is issued.

Registration fees vary, based on the weight and class of the vehicle, from C$88 to C$232 for passenger vehicles. The registration is valid for 2 years.

Liability insurance is compulsory in Nova Scotia. Provincial authorities strongly recommend employees obtain a minimum $1,000,000 Canadian liability coverage.

Vehicles must pass an annual safety inspection completed at a provincially sanctioned garage or dealership. The cost of this inspection is C$15.

Quebec. All vehicles operated in Quebec must be inspected for roadworthiness by the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) before they are registered. The fee for this inspection is about Canadian $75 (a small discount is available for CAA or AAA members). Under Quebec provincial regulations, auto registration and licensing fees for consular officers are about Canadian $150. The cost of the first year’s registration may vary depending on the application date, as all registrations are renewable in March of each year. Employees are fully responsible for the costs of inspecting and registering their personal vehicles in Quebec.

All personnel must obtain a Quebec driver’s license. Personnel and their adult dependents who have valid U.S. licenses are granted Quebec licenses without tests but must pay the fee of Canadian $50 for a 2-year license. The exact cost of the first license fee will vary depending on the date of application and the license-holder’s birthday.

Part of the driver’s license fee is contributed to the Quebec Insurance Fund. Quebec has “no-fault” insurance.

The program provides state-run coverage for vehicular injuries or death up to $50,000 a year, including compensation for lost income and for medical expenses to accident victims, regardless of fault. All vehicle owners must purchase separately at least $50,000 worth of property damage insurance.

Since “no-fault” coverage applies only in the province of Quebec, Consulate General employees should carry private insurance for driving in other Canadian provinces or in the U.S. Employees planning to maintain an American policy should ensure that the appropriate provisions for other than liability are valid in Quebec. Post strongly recommends that employees obtain Canadian $1,000,000 liability coverage since several court settlements have approached the $1,000,000 amount.

Toronto. All personnel receive provincial drivers’ licenses upon presentation of a valid license and an identity card (the latter is issued by the Department of External Affairs), and a vision examination at the Department of Motor Vehicles. Diplomatic, consular corps, and support staff are issued appropriate automobile plates at no charge upon presentation of an identity card. Local law requires third-party liability insurance in the amount of C$200,000 at the least, although C$1,000,000 is recommended.

Vancouver. Liability insurance is mandatory in British Columbia and must be purchased from the provincial monopoly, the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC), at prices substantially higher than in the U.S. Although comprehensive coverage is available from ICBC, it may also be purchased from other vendors. Some American employees have chosen to keep their comprehensive coverage with a U.S.-based insurer. Employees should check with present companies to see if medical and collision coverage can be extended to British Columbia. A valid British Columbia driver’s license is generally required, although personnel with consular status may receive a waiver to this requirement and continue to use their U.S. license. All other employees must exchange their U.S. drivers’ licenses for B.C. licenses, a process that requires employees to take both a written test and an eye examination. The fee for a license is $10. Post strongly recommends employees obtain $1,000,000 Canadian liability coverage since several recent court settlements have approached the $1,000,000 amount. While cars purchased in Canada are often cheaper than the same car would be if purchased in the U.S., personnel considering purchasing a car in Canada should be aware that automobiles produced for the Canadian market generally do not meet U.S. safety and/or pollution requirements and cannot be brought back to the U.S. without expensive modifications. Personnel bringing a car to Vancouver will need to have the car inspected prior to licensing it and will generally be required to re-export the auto at the end of his/her tour of duty.

Transportation

Local Transportation Last Updated: 12/4/2003 9:04 AM

All large cities have a public transit system, generally buses. Montreal and Toronto have subways; Calgary and Toronto have streetcars. By and large, Canadian cities have public transportation arrangements superior to those in U.S. cities of similar size. Provincial and local governments subsidize public transportation.

Transportation

Regional Transportation Last Updated: 12/4/2003 9:06 AM

Except in remote northern areas, Canada has an advanced transportation system comparable to the U.S. An extensive air network links all major and many minor traffic points with adequate connections to the U.S. and the rest of the world. Domestic airfares per mile are generally higher than in the U.S., and distances between population centers are considerably greater. Likewise, a good highway system (with somewhat less emphasis on interstate roads) exists within 200 miles of the U.S. border and supports extensive truck, bus, and automobile traffic.

Canada’s extensive railway system connects the country from sea to sea. The Canadian National Railway (CN) deals exclusively with cargo, whereas VIA Rail offers passenger service.

When traveling by train, connections can be made with buses, ferries, and some American railway lines. In Canada (and in most American states) toll-free telephone numbers are available for information and reservations. Most reservations can be made this way. Tickets can also be purchased through authorized travel agents, or at VIA’s sales offices at convenient locations in most cities. Agents can supply information regarding special excursion fares, and fares for children and students.

Major credit cards are accepted for purchase of tickets, meals, and other services. Special needs (such as wheelchairs, dietary meals) can usually be met. Most stations require baggage to be checked 45 minutes before train departure to ensure that it arrives at the same time as the passenger. Adults may check up to 100 lbs. before a surcharge is levied, and children may check up to 50 lbs.

Pets can be transported in baggage cars where these cars are available, but must be kept in cages, which are available for purchase at most stations. Seeing-eye or hearing-ear dogs are an exception and are allowed in the passenger cars.

CANRAIL, Youth CANRAIL, and senior passes are available. They allow the holder to travel across Canada for a fixed cost based on a 30-day or less period. Prices vary according to seasonal rates.

Water transportation is important largely from the foreign trade viewpoint. Major ports exist at Vancouver, Montreal, other St. Lawrence River points, Halifax, and Saint John (New Brunswick). The Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway and River system is an important domestic and binational transport route, which permits the movement of smaller oceangoing vessels as far west as Duluth, Minnesota, and Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Communications

Telephones and Telecommunications Last Updated: 12/4/2003 9:06 AM

Telephone service, provided by the Bell Telephone Company of Canada in Ontario and Quebec and by provincial companies in other provinces, is excellent. Canada is integrated with the U.S. direct long-distance dialing system (dial 1, area code, and number). Worldwide telegraphic services are available. Internet access, including high speed cable, is available from a variety of providers. Costs run from Can$9.95 to Can$40 a month.

Communications

Mail and Pouch Last Updated: 12/4/2003 9:09 AM

Mail service within and from Canada is generally satisfactory but slower than in the U.S. There is no mail service on Saturdays. All first-class mail is air mail within Canada at no extra cost. Letters to the U.S. require only a first-class (CAN$.65) stamp (a domestic first-class stamp is CAN$.48). Services similar to those in the U.S. are available, as are commercial courier and Canada Post Priority mail services, both of which are widely used.

Mail orders may be shipped parcel post direct to your Canadian address, but this involves customs formalities. Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Toronto, and Vancouver have post office boxes in the U.S., and official American personnel prefer to use this means for personal letters and packages. A driver picks up the mail regularly and delivers it to the Embassy or Consulate General for distribution. The addresses are:

Ottawa: Full Name U.S. Embassy P.O. Box 5000 Ogdensburg, New York 13669–0430

Montreal: Full Name American Consulate General P.O. Box 847 Champlain, New York 12919–0847

Quebec City: Full Name American Consulate General P O. Box 1547 Champlain, New York 12919–1547

Toronto: Full Name American Consulate General P.O. Box 135 Lewiston, New York 14092

Vancouver: Full Name American Consulate General P.O. Box 5002 Point Roberts, Washington 98281

Personnel are authorized use of State Department airpouch facilities for outgoing personal letter mail. Incoming parcels containing medical supplies and prescription eyeglasses weighing less than 2 pounds may be received via airpouch.

Name Post: Calgary 5490 Calgary Place, Dulles, Virginia 20189–5490

Department of State Washington D.C. 20520 (plus four extra digits: Ottawa—5480; Calgary—5490; Halifax—5500; Montreal—5510; Quebec—5520; Toronto—5530; and Vancouver—5540.

Parcels over 2 pounds, magazines, and other bulk items may be received via surface pouch, but transit time is quite slow. The address for such parcels is the same as above but with ZIP code 20521 plus the same four digits.

Employees assigned to Ottawa can use Canada Post or the Embassy Mailroom for mailing purposes. Regular mail and packages sent via United Parcel Services (UPS) are picked up by an Embassy driver three times a week in Ogdensburg. The address is:

(Full Name) PMB–321 2981 Ford St. Ext. Ogdensburg, New York 13669

Accredited personnel may receive parcels via international mail duty free. Listed below are the international mailing addresses for posts in Canada:

Ottawa U.S. Embassy P.O. Box 866, Station “B” Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1P 5T1

Calgary U.S. Consulate General 10th floor, Room 1050 615 MacLeod Tr, SE Calgary, Alberta, Canada T2G 4T8

Halifax U.S. Consulate General Purdy's Wharf Tower II Suite 904 1969 Upper Water Street Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 3R7

Montreal U.S. Consulate General P.O. Box 65, Postal Station Desjardins Montreal, P.Q., Canada H5B 1G1

U.S. Mission-ICAO 999 University Avenue Suite 1410 Montreal, P.Q. H3C 5A7

Quebec U.S. Consulate General P.O. Box 939 Quebec, P.Q., Canada G1R 4T9

Toronto U.S. Consulate General 360 University Avenue Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 154

Vancouver U.S. Consulate General 1075 West Georgia Street Vancouver, B.C., Canada, V6E 4E9

Consulate (APP) Winnipeg 860-201 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 3K6

Note: Winnipeg does not have a post office box

Communications

Radio and TV Last Updated: 12/4/2003 9:10 AM

Broadcasting is well developed in Canada. Radio and TV stations operate in all post cities and carry extensive U.S. programming. Canada has two national TV networks (CBC and CTV), and independent TV stations also exist in many large cities. The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) operates an extensive radio network, with domestic (AM and FM), northern, armed forces, and international shortwave service. It operates dual networks for English and French programming; there are even French outlets in the western cities where the francophone population is limited. The Province of Quebec also has its own French-language broadcasting system. The Province of Ontario operates an impressive educational TV system, which at night features nonacademic programs. Direct reception of nearby U.S. radio and TV stations is possible in many parts of Canada. A shortwave set is not necessary, but if you have one, bring it. In most Canadian cities there is a well-developed cable TV system available to subscribers, which relays most of the U.S. networks (including PBS), some distant Canadian stations for an additional charge, and distant U.S. and Canadian FM radio as well. By a recent Supreme Court of Canada decision, using U.S. satellite decoders is illegal.

Communications

Newspapers, Magazines, and Technical Journals Last Updated: 12/4/2003 9:10 AM

About 109 daily newspapers are published in Canada — 89% are in English. Most post cities have at least two local papers, usually morning and evening.

Several Canadian newspapers publish a Sunday edition. Most post cities receive major U.S. newspapers within a few days of publication. The New York Times is available daily, including Sundays, in Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.

Most American magazines and books are available in the post cities, usually at slightly higher prices than in the U.S. You can get subscriptions to your favorite magazines and journals. Maclean’s, a weekly, is the only national Canadian news magazine. Reader’s Digest publishes a Canadian edition.

Health and Medicine

Medical Facilities Last Updated: 12/4/2003 9:11 AM

Competent doctors, dentists, and specialists of all types are available. Many train in the U.S. and most, except in some areas of Quebec, speak English. Canadian medical training is equivalent to that in the U.S. Doctors are heavily booked, sometimes months in advance. If you anticipate the need for dental or eye care, make appointments soon after you arrive at post. Most other specialists accept new patients only on referral by a general practitioner or family doctor. If you have a medical history that requires continued treatment by a specialist, ask your own doctor’s advice and assistance in arranging an appointment here. In addition, the Embassy has an agreement with a local general practitioner for physical examinations and inoculations. As post medical adviser, the practitioner is available for advice and assistance on other medical problems and for referrals to specialists as required.

Laboratories and hospitals maintain high standards and are well equipped. Professional fees and hospital and prescription drug costs are comparable to those in the U.S. Pharmaceutical facilities are excellent. While the U.S. Government will pay for costs associated with inpatient care of 24 hours or more at hospitals, payment for outpatient care, unless it is related to a previous or subsequent period of hospitalization, is the responsibility of the employee. Under most circumstances, the employee can claim partial reimbursement from his or her health insurance plan.

Health and Medicine

Community Health Last Updated: 12/4/2003 9:14 AM

Canada has no special health risks. Standards of community health and sanitation are comparable to those in U.S. cities.

Medicine. The medical situation is somewhat different in Quebec. The quality and availability of competent medical care in Montreal has declined in recent years. Newspapers have reported frequent sharp criticism of the Quebec health system from health care professionals and Government officials, as well as from patients. A root cause of the problem is the tremendous shortage of nurses, generally agreed to be between 1,200 and 1,500, which the Quebec Government may have inadvertently created when it offered a voluntary buyout in 1997. About 4,000 nurses accepted early retirement, which basically dismantled the health-care system. This has been reported to be perhaps the most severe nursing shortage since Quebec’s public healthcare network was established in the early 1970s. With the number of nursing graduates in 2000 the lowest in a decade, the Quebec Order of Nurses predicted the shortage to last until 2005.

There is also general consensus that Canada has suffered a net loss of workers in a variety of key occupations. Statistics Canada reported that during the past decade, Canada lost 19 doctors and 15 nurses to the U.S. for every one gained, putting physicians and nurses in the top two categories of professionals who have left Canada for better working conditions and higher salaries in the U.S. This “brain drain” of professionals has contributed to the deteriorating health care situation in Montreal.

Modern diagnostic equipment is also in short supply. It has been reported recently that in comparison with 15 other OECD countries, Canada ranked 12th in availability of CT-scanners and 11th out of 13 in MRI availability. Elective surgeries such as hip replacements and heart operations have been postponed, often for months. Many cancer patients have chosen to travel to the U.S. for treatment rather than be put on a waiting list in an overcrowded, understaffed Montreal hospital.

Emergency care in particular has suffered. Hospital emergency rooms are overcrowded to such an extent that some have asked the public to stay away. Doctors complain of having to treat patients on stretchers in corridors, creating increased risk of contagion as well as anger and frustration over the lack of privacy. Hospitals have been forced to close beds for the past three summers. The Montreal Regional Health Board reported that during the summer of 2000, more than one-fifth of the beds in Montreal’s 17 hospitals were closed. A recent poll found that 116 of the 670 patients on stretchers in the city’s emergency rooms waited more than 48 hours to be transferred to a hospital bed. At least one major hospital has posted signs warning people against threats and violence in its emergency room. Quebec’s emergency response procedures (ambulance delays, specifically) have also been criticized, prompting a Health Ministry spokesperson to admit that the Health Department recognizes that the system is flawed and is working to fix it.

An English-speaking M/MED approved post medical adviser is generally available to see Consulate General staff and family members for a set fee. If he believes the ailment or condition warrants more specialized treatment, the patient would be referred to an appropriate specialist. Those without French-language capability may encounter some difficulty at certain medical facilities (even major hospitals), as many signs are posted only in French and some staff members have only limited English-language ability. Many doctors’ offices, hospitals, and related medical facilities (such as X-ray labs) require payment in advance for a portion, if not all, of any medical treatment, unless the patient has medical insurance valid in Quebec. As many of these facilities do not accept credit cards or personal checks, it would be wise to carry cash when medical consultation or treatment is necessary. As the Consulate General is located so near the New York border, it is possible, and may be preferable to some, to obtain physician services in Plattsburgh or other nearby cities, at least for routine or non-emergency services.

Health and Medicine

Preventive Measures Last Updated: 12/4/2003 9:15 AM

No diseases are endemic to post areas; however, several possible health problems should be noted. Hay fever sufferers should remember that Toronto has the highest pollen count of any large North American city. Although the hay fever season is short, about 6 weeks, persons with hay fever experience great discomfort unless they take medication or remain in air-conditioned areas. The dryness inside buildings from winter heating sometimes causes skin irritation and rashes and may aggravate nose and throat problems. Although some home furnaces have built-in humidifiers to alleviate dryness, a portable unit for bedrooms is useful. Warm- or cold-air vaporizers are recommended for families with babies or small children.

Most school districts require that children attending school be innoculated against DPT, measles, German measles, mumps, and polio (by oral vaccine or injection).

Parents should have the necessary certificates or records from physicians indicating that children have been protected.

Employment for Spouses and Dependents Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:14 PM

Employment opportunities within the Mission have been on an increase over the past 3 years. The current number of established American PIT and PSC positions is limited; however, FSN positions are open to EFMs which allows for varied and expanded employment opportunities. If all applicants are equally qualified, preference is given to EFMs over resident U.S. citizens and FSNs.

Fixed American contract positions include visa clerk positions, which are available annually during the Consular Peak Season, May 1st to September 30th. These positions are available in Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, and Quebec City. Dependents 18 years of age and older may apply. Student dependents, 16–24 years of age, may work under the Dependent Summer Employment Program, which also runs from May 1st to September 30th.

Reciprocal agreements regarding employment of dependents between Canada and the U.S. make it possible for the dependents of any U.S. Government civilian or military employee, accredited by the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT), to work in any field. The Human Resources Office obtains the necessary permission from DFAIT, which authorizes dependents to accept local employment. The process is routine. Dependents, as defined in the agreement, are spouses, unmarried dependent children under 21 years of age, unmarried dependent children under 25 years of age who are in full-time attendance as students at post-secondary educational institutions, and unmarried children with physical or mental disabilities.

Immunity from civil and administrative jurisdiction with respect to employment is waived for dependents who obtain employment under this agreement. Dependents are subject to local taxes and social insurance contributions on any wages received.

Ample opportunities exist for contributing time, skill, and effort to welfare and charitable activities. The Welfare Council of Ottawa maintains a central registry for volunteers and social service agencies covering hospitals, health organizations, etc. All volunteers are welcome.

American Embassy - Ottawa, Ontario

Post City Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:15 PM

Ottawa (from an Indian word meaning “near the water”) is a growing city at the junction of the Ottawa, Rideau, and Gatineau Rivers about 60 miles north of the border with New York State. City residents total over 850,000 and the total metropolitan population is about 1 million. The climate is healthful and bracing; the area abounds with opportunities for outdoor activities and family living.

Government is the main business in Ottawa, Canada’s capital city. As in Washington, D.C., little industry exists, although the high tech sector has grown in recent years. Living conditions are similar to those in U.S. cities of comparable size, although social life is geared to the demands of diplomatic and government circles.

Small Oriental, Lebanese, Portuguese, and Italian colonies exist in Ottawa, but most residents are of British or French descent. Most francophones (35% of the population) are also fluent in English.

Although about 15,000 Americans live in the Ottawa consular district, they have merged into the population and do not constitute a discernible American colony. No American clubs or associations exist. Approximately 50 U.S. companies have subsidiaries or affiliates in the consular district, but only a few have American citizens on their local staff.

During summer U.S. tourists flow through the city. Though their stays are usually brief, the Embassy has become a point of interest. Throughout the year, the Embassy receives many Washington officials, civilian and military, who visit Ottawa on official business.

The diplomatic community is large and growing. Some 172 nations maintain relations with Canada, though only 121 have resident missions here. Most are small with two or three officers and a Chief of Mission. The only large Missions are those of the U.S., U.K., Russia, France, Germany, and the People's Republic of China.

The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:18 PM

Prior to the opening of the new Chancery, the Embassy was located at 100 Wellington Street. It was built in 1932 to house 17 people. Located directly opposite Canada’s Parliament Buildings, it was eventually only 1 of 10 U.S. Government facilities in downtown Ottawa.

After lengthy negotiations, the U.S. and Canada agreed to build the new Chancery at its present location. The new 12,819-square meter U.S. Embassy office building began construction in January 1997, and was officially dedicated by President William J. Clinton on October 8, 1999. It consolidates offices for more than 10 Embassy-related offices formerly housed in several different buildings in Ottawa.

Located at 490 Sussex Drive on a site in the Parliament Hill zone, the building needed to respond to complex urban design contexts on each of its four sides: the Byward Market area to the east (the “Town”); the Peacekeeping Monument, the National Gallery of Canada, and the Ceremonial Parade Route to the north; the Parliament Buildings (the “Crown”), Major’s Hill Park and the river view to the west; and finally, the York Steps and the city to the south. Symbolizing a bridge between the Town and the Crown, this building stands for partnership and alliance.

Outside, the Chancery has a strong architectural form with two distinct “fronts” which each respond to these two distinct environments. The east facade features granite and limestone, while the west facade gleams with glass, stainless steel, and terne-coated metal. The tall center tower brings light into the building’s atrium center.

Inside are spectacular open views to Major’s Hill Park, the Byward Market, Parliament Hill, and the Ottawa River. Interior common areas are rich in terrazzo, stone, hardwoods, and stainless steel. The selection of maple as the primary wood finish used throughout the building is natural, considering the maple leaf as a symbol of Canada. Furniture in the offices and workspaces feature case goods of maple veneer. The maple leaf theme is carried into all reception areas throughout the building. A pattern of stars punctuated with an occasional maple leaf is cut into the Niagara blue mohair velvet which covers all seating in these areas. Even the choice of color and type of fabric reflects the shared experience, close relationship and free trade association between the United States and Canada — Niagara blue because of the shared beauty of Niagara Falls; and mohair because of its strength, durability, and the warmth it provides in our shared climates along the northern border of the U.S. and Canada.

The artwork in the Embassy is a diverse selection of American contemporary artists. More than 60 works of art by artists from across the U.S. are included. Among these are several artworks contributed by Friends of Art and Preservation in Embassies (FAPE), a nonprofit, tax-exempt foundation established in 1986 to augment the representation of American culture in its Embassies. One of FAPE’s contributions is the 40-foot bronze sculpture, “Conjunction” by Joel Shapiro, located on the southern lawn between the Embassy and the York Steps.

The new Chancery was designed by David Childs, senior design partner of Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill in New York. In 1981, Mr. Childs received a Presidential appointment as chairman of the National Capital Planning Commission. His projects in Washington, D.C., include the master plan and landscape design for the Great Mall and Constitution Gardens, the National Geographic Society Headquarters, U.S. News and World Report Headquarters, and the Regent Hotel. The telephone number is (613) 238–5335. Marine Guards are on duty 24 hours. Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Besides the usual Embassy functions, the post provides overall supervision and guidance for the activities of the seven constituent posts. In addition, several other U.S. Government agencies are represented in Ottawa. These include Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms (ATF), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), Foreign Commercial Service (FCS), Customs, Department of Defense (DOD), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Secret Service, and Treasury. Personnel from these agencies receive the same privileges as comparable Foreign Service personnel.

The Embassy will not meet personnel arriving by air in Ottawa unless it receives a specific request to do so. If you are not met, you will have little trouble getting to the Embassy or downtown. The airport is located south of Ottawa and has limousine and bus service to the downtown area.

Personnel assigned to Canada must obtain a diplomatic visa prior to entering Canada. Visas may be arranged through the Canadian Embassy in Washington, D.C., or at any Canadian embassy or consulate worldwide.

Housing

Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:18 PM

With advance notification, the Embassy can reserve suitable accommodations for newly assigned personnel at nearby apartment hotels with kitchenette facilities.

Housing

Permanent Housing Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:20 PM

Government quarters are provided for the Ambassador and the DCM. Other personnel must find private housing. When seeking accommodations, it is important to remember that no one from any agency may rent (or purchase) a house or an apartment here without the prior approval of the security officer and the general services officer.

The Ambassador’s residence, “Lornado,” is located in Rockcliffe Village and overlooks the Ottawa River. It has been the residence of the U.S. Chief of Mission in Canada since 1935 when it was purchased by the U.S. Government. Built in 1908 by Warren Y. Soper, the 32- room, two-and-a-half story limestone “cottage” was named after Soper’s favorite literary heroine, Lorna Doone. The house is completely furnished.

The DCM’s residence is not far from the Ambassador’s residence. It is also completely furnished.

Personnel generally have little difficulty locating unfurnished houses or apartments, though it may take time and patience to find suitable quarters in the neighborhood that you prefer. Allow at least 4–6 weeks to locate housing. Rents in Centretown, the city’s oldest residential area, are higher than in outlying areas, and rents in all areas are rising. Some personnel prefer to buy homes. Attractive subdivisions in the outlying areas are popular choices. With the east-west throughway (Queensway), commuting time from the suburban areas of Ottawa to the Embassy, except during inclement weather, is seldom more than 30 minutes. Apartment and townhouse rents usually include all utilities except telephone and cable TV. Some housing centers have indoor swimming pools, sauna, gym, plus other recreational and entertainment facilities. Indoor sports facilities with year-round swimming, skating, tennis, squash, and gymnasium facilities are also readily accessible to the suburban housing subdivisions. Rents for detached houses rarely include utilities. Most landlords ask for a first and last month’s rental deposit (the last month’s rent is a de facto security deposit). Arriving personnel should therefore plan for a substantial outlay of cash to cover this requirement.

Housing

Furnishings Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:20 PM

Furniture suitable for the central or northern U.S. is suitable for Ottawa. Plan to ship the major portion of your furniture needs to post. Furniture selection, which is immediately available in Ottawa, is limited and prices are significantly higher than in the U.S. You may wish to postpone buying rugs and draperies until you have located quarters. Such items are available here, at higher prices than in the U.S., or can be ordered from U.S. suppliers.

Housing

Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:21 PM

Utilities throughout Ottawa are the same as in any modern U.S. city. Apartments and townhouses are normally rented with stoves, refrigerators, and frequently with washers, dryers, and dishwashers. Houses on the other hand may not have the full range of appliances. Electric rates are generally lower than in the U.S. Houses are generally heated with oil or natural gas. Air-conditioners provide comfort during humid summer weather. Many of the newer homes have central air-conditioning systems. Home humidifiers (for winter use) are helpful (see Health and Medicine).

Electric current is 110v, 60 cycle, three-phase AC. Any equipment used in the U.S. may be used here. Power outages occur from time to time during heavy storms. Personnel, especially in outlying suburban areas, should keep on hand emergency supplies such as battery lanterns and candles.

Food Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:21 PM

Local stores, supermarkets, and open-air markets such as the Byward Market (operating about 6 months of the year) all provide a good selection of foods of all types. Fresh fruits and vegetables are available during the local growing season at reasonable prices.

Clothing Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:21 PM

Heavy woolen clothes are not needed for indoor wear in Ottawa as houses and offices are well heated in winter. Medium-weight clothes are worn instead. A heavy parka, gloves, and boots are essential for the severe winter cold. Warm boots are necessary for everyone.

Clothing

Men Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:22 PM

All types of men’s clothing are sold here. Tweeds and woolens are often imported from England and tailored in Canada. Formal clothes can be rented for the rare occasions they may be required. Dark suits usually are sufficient for the more formal occasions. Canadian functions tend to be informal, with dress usually specified.

Clothing

Women Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:22 PM

Fur coats are common and are a good buy in Canada. Local tastes and standards are comparable to those in the U.S. Women need some formal dresses although Canadian functions tend to be relatively informal.

Clothing

Children Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:22 PM

A full range of children’s clothing is available in Canada. Heavy winter gear for children should be purchased in Ottawa since it is of the appropriate weight for the Ottawa winter.

Supplies and Services

Supplies Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:23 PM

Basic supplies are readily available. Drugstores, similar to those in the U.S., carry the same range of goods. The employees’ association, Aceway, operates a small commissary facility that sells liquors, wines, and cigarettes at duty-free prices.

Supplies and Services

Basic Services Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:23 PM

Facilities for tailoring, dressmaking, shoe repair, drycleaning, laundering, radio and auto repair, hairdressers, and other such services are better in general than those in the U.S. All types of photographic films, equipment, and development services are available locally as well.

Supplies and Services

Domestic Help Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:25 PM

Only the Ambassador and DCM have full-time (ORE) servants. Others occasionally use part-time employees such as housekeepers, maids, bartenders, or catering services. Reliable full-time domestic servants, cooks, and gardeners are very difficult to find in the Ottawa area. Many are recruited from Montreal and Toronto. Salaries and benefits for household servants are comparable to those in the U.S.

Accredited U.S. Government personnel planning to bring a servant into Canada must observe Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) regulations. There are two programs available for employment of domestic personnel: 1) as a Private Servant and 2) Live-in Caregiver Program.

Private Servant. DFAIT administers the program under which a domestic employee may be sponsored as a private servant to work for an accredited U.S. Government employee under a contractual agreement called a Household Domestic Worker Employment Agreement (HDWEA). Application for this type of employment is made before the employee’s arrival in Canada through a Canadian embassy or High Commission. Once the HDWEA is approved and the necessary medical and interview requirements are met, the domestic is issued an entry visa to come to Canada. Upon arrival in Canada, the Office of Human Resources announces the domestic to DFAIT and an Official Acceptance and Identity Card, valid for a 2-year period, is issued in favor of the private servant. The employment and documentation of the private servant may be renewed up to 7 years.

Under the HDWEA, the private servant is to leave Canada with the sponsor unless the private servant’s employment transfers to another employer. DFAIT must approve the transfer of employment. If the private servant’s employment is transferred to another diplomat, a new HDWEA must be completed and approved by DFAIT.

It is the sponsor’s responsibility to ensure that the Office of Human Resources is advised of the intentions regarding his/her domestic employee and to ensure that all requirements of the HDWEA are met well in advance of his/her departure from Canada.

Live-In Caregiver Program. The Live-in Caregiver program falls under the auspices of the Canadian Government Department of Citizenship and Immigration. This program allows a domestic employee to enter Canada under an employment authorization and establishes eligibility for landed immigrant status following completion of a 2-year period of employment. The process for this type of employment must be initiated before arrival in Canada.

As an employer under this program, the U.S. Government employee must be prepared to pay monthly remittances to Canada Customs and Revenue Agency in addition to the salary. These remittances consist of withholdings for Canadian income tax and deductions for employee/ employer contributions to Canada pension plan and employment insurance.

No servant may be hired or brought to Canada without the Embassy’s permission, as sought through the Office of Human Resources. The Office of Human Resources will facilitate the exchange of information between the employee/domestic and DFAIT. This is to ensure that the conditions set by DFAIT are met and that security requirements set by the Department of State have been satisfied.

Religious Activities Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:26 PM

Ottawa’s religious organizations include Anglican, Baptist, Christian Science, Greek Orthodox, Jewish, Latter-day Saints, Lutheran, Mennonite, Methodist, Roman Catholic, Sikh, Society of Friends, Syrian Orthodox, Unitarian, United Church, Pentecostal (which is equivalent to the U.S. Assemblies of God) and more. Services are conducted at most churches in English, although French is used in Catholic churches in predominantly French neighborhoods.

Education

Dependent Education Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:30 PM

Ottawa’s public school system offers instruction from kindergarten through grade 12. There are about 119 elementary schools for kindergarten to grade 8, and 27 high schools with English instruction and 5 with French instruction covering grades 9 to 12. Tuition is free for Ottawa residents attending public schools, including dependents of Embassy personnel. Children may enter kindergarten at age 5, or 4 if the child will be 5 before December 31 of that year. Most schools also have a junior kindergarten for children who will be 4 before December 31.

Courses meet the standards established by the Ontario Ministry of Education. Based on actual enrollment as of October 31, 2000, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) average in the aggregate for elementary school classes in the primary division, JK-3 was 22.76. The average size of the Board’s elementary school classes for JK-8 as a whole, in the aggregate, was 24.36.

The average size of the Board’s secondary school classes, in the aggregate, based on total credits (actual semester one plus actual semester two) was 20.95 students.

At the elementary level, parents may place their children in one of two language programs: the immersion program consisting of instruction totally in French in the first few years with a gradual phasing in of English instruction until the program becomes bilingual; or the core program consisting of at least 20 minutes a day of French instruction from kindergarten through grade 8 with optional programs ranging up to 70 minutes a day and some courses taught entirely in French. The core program is not rigid and may vary from school to school. Embassy parents who have enrolled their children in the optional French immersion program generally have found fewer adjustment problems if their children have had extensive French-language experiences before coming to Ottawa, or are entering the program in kindergarten.

Older children with little or no previous French-language experience have had difficulty with the immersion program. Children experience less difficulty in the core programs. Although some students coming from U.S. schools (especially those in the Washington, D.C. area) have found the high schools somewhat less demanding than their former schools, most students and parents report few differences or problems. There tends to be a wide range of opinion among Embassy personnel about the quality of secondary education in Ottawa, and satisfaction with the schools continues to be largely an individual matter. Instruction programs and course offerings can vary from school to school within the particular “Board,” although specific diploma requirements are set by the Ontario Ministry of Education.

Secondary School Reform. The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) is preparing to enter its third year of implementation of Secondary School Reform (SSR) initiatives from the Ministry of Education (MOE). MOE released new curriculum policy documents for grades 1 to 8 in 1998. Implementation in all elementary classrooms in Ontario is underway. New curriculum policy documents for grades 9 and 10 were developed and released by MOE in 1999. Implementation of the new curriculum at the grade 9 level began in September 1999 and continued for grade 10 in September 2000. The grades 11 and 12 documents were released in May 2000. The new curriculum policy documents reflect new information, a heightened emphasis on technology and a realignment of curriculum materials to the end of grade 12 (the same as in the U.S.).

New graduation requirements. To obtain a high school diploma, students must complete: 30 credits (110 hours each) of which 18 are compulsory — the Grade 10 Test of Reading and Writing Skills (which began in October 2000) and Community involvement (40 hours). Please check in the Community Liaison Office for the compulsory courses and additional information with regard to schools. Subjects are offered at different levels of difficulty (general for a student going on to a technical school or directly into the workforce, and advanced and enriched for the university-bound student). Individual programs may be quite flexible, depending on the student's ability and interests. You can visit the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCCSB) on the web at www.ocdsb.edu.on.ca.

The Ottawa-Carleton Catholic School Board (OCCSB) has 12 high schools (each representing a family of schools), 61 elementary schools, 4 intermediate schools, 1 adult high school, 4 adult dayschools offering continuing education, and a specialized school offering programs dedicated to students in care, treatment, and/or corrections. In total, the Board has some 41,000 students who receive quality Catholic education guided by a professional staff of 2,300 teachers, department heads, vice-principals, principals, consultants, and coordinators.

Currently, the French-language delivery model for the whole Board is under review. At the completion of the review, recommendations for possible changes to the FSL model will be made. Community consultation will be part of the review. Implementation of any changes (to be phased in over a 4-year period) began in September 2001.

Children of Catholic parent(s) (ratepayers) may attend OCCSB schools. Ratepayers must prove they are Catholic (baptismal certificate or pastoral letter) to direct their taxes to the Ottawa-Carleton Catholic School Board. Non-Catholic children may also attend (without fees) based on space availability.

Please visit the OCCSB web site at www.occdsb.on.ca for further information.

As in the Ottawa public and separate school boards, the curriculum in both Boards in Carleton meets all the requirements of the Ontario Ministry of Education.

Embassy families less often live in Quebec Province (across the Ottawa River in the greater Hull area). Children not already reasonably conversant in French could encounter problems, especially at the high school level — even if enrolled in an English-speaking school.

Quebec Province requires all high school students to take French throughout high school and to pass a standard Provincial French-language examination before graduation. Also, Embassy personnel residing in Quebec cannot send their children to schools in Ottawa for free. The Ottawa Board of Education would require such parents to pay nonresident tuition. Both public and separate school systems in Ottawa and the suburban areas offer extracurricular activities similar to those found in the U.S., including athletics, drama, music, student government, etc. The Ottawa school year runs from Labor Day to the last week in June. Students have a 2-week vacation at Christmas and a 1-week break in March. Grades are generally released quarterly.

Ottawa has several schools that accept children from age 3. In addition, there are “play schools” for children 18 months to age 4. These are usually 2 or 3 half-days a week and require some type of parent participation.

There are many private, preparatory schools in the Ottawa area that Mission personnel use. The Community Liaison Office in the Embassy keeps brochures from all schools attended by dependents of Mission personnel. An International Baccalaureate Program is offered through the following schools: Ashbury College, Elmwood School, and Colonel By High School.

The Ottawa Montessori School has a full elementary program for children from age 3 to 12. The Lycee Claudel offers a traditional French education for children in junior kindergarten through high school, including the International Baccalaureate Program.

Parents may contact the Andrew Fleck Child Care Services, 700 Industrial Avenue, Ottawa, (613) 736–5355 and speak with the Intake and Referral Coordinator. Andrew Fleck is a government-funded, nonprofit organization that provides information on child care services for all children aged 6 weeks to 12 years. They should be contacted for anything having to do with child care, including daycare facilities throughout the area, licensed home care, and support services for special needs children. Although parents are still responsible for locating daycare or the appropriate educational facility for their special needs child, Andrew Fleck can provide necessary support staff and/or equipment and training in order to have the special needs child fully integrated into the facility. Note: The Community Liaison Office has additional updated information (2001) that is available to all Mission personnel.

Education

Special Needs Education Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:31 PM

Limited programs exist in local school boards for students with special needs, be they gifted and talented, physically challenged, or learning disabled. However, identifying special needs and locating a program best suited for the individual student is a lengthy process. Some parents with special needs children are very frustrated by the existing system and future because budget cuts threaten to cut back on even the currently limited programs.

Parents of special needs students should contact the special needs department in the appropriate school Board before bidding on positions at Ottawa. New arrivals should provide as much information as possible to reduce the amount of time required locating the program best suited for the needs of the student.

Four schools are available for trainable, mentally handicapped children: Ecole Jeanne-Lajoie, the McHugh School (affiliated with the Royal Ottawa Psychiatric Center), the Clifford Bowey School, and the Crystal Bay School (Carleton Board of Education). One school (Centennial) is for the physically handicapped. In addition, the Ottawa Crippled Children’s Treatment Center has teaching facilities for the physically handicapped as well as for autistic children. The four local Boards of Education guarantee that every child will be able to attend a school that meets his/her needs. If the Board for the area in which one is residing cannot offer the appropriate program, that Board will then purchase space and provide transportation to another part of the metropolitan area where a proper program is available.

Students with special needs are accommodated, whenever possible, in the regular classroom. Those with special physical needs may be transported to a school better suited to their needs.

Education

Higher Education Opportunities Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:32 PM

Two universities, a technical institute, a teachers college, and a variety of business and professional schools provide ample opportunity for special education on a full- or part-time basis. Carleton University (English language) and the University of Ottawa (bilingual) offer many courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels leading to degrees in the liberal arts, sciences, engineering, theology, business administration, education, medicine, nursing, law, and the applied sciences. Both universities have extensive evening courses for part-time students in degree and nondegree programs.

Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology, a community college with four campuses, offers a wide range of day and evening courses, 1-year certificate programs, and 2- and 3-year diploma programs.

In general, tuition and fees for colleges and universities in Ottawa are less than those of state colleges and universities in the U.S. Personnel assigned to the Embassy and their dependents pay regular tuition. Foreign student tuition and fees are somewhat higher than regular fees.

Other educational opportunities include tutoring or group study in languages, music, dance, art, and related activities. These are available for all ages at reasonable costs, usually through the various school systems, Algonquin College, the universities, and the YMCA. Often, however, waiting lists are encountered for those wishing to obtain the most competent instruction available. This is particularly true of French-language courses.

Recreation and Social Life

Sports Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:35 PM

Extensive opportunities for participation in recreational sports activities exist in and around Ottawa.

In winter, cross-country and downhill skiing are popular. Trails and slopes abound within a 100-mile radius of Ottawa, ranging from those for the beginner skier to expert slopes for the advanced enthusiast. Main roads are kept open and passable in winter providing access to ski trails and lifts in developed ski complexes. Bus service is available. One ski area (Carlington Park) is within the Ottawa city limits. Within an hour’s drive are the ski complexes of Camp Fortune, Vorlage, Edelweiss Valley, and Mount Pakenham. Camp Fortune, located in Quebec Province in Gatineau Park, is one of the country’s largest ski complexes, offering downhill and cross-country skiing at all levels of difficulty, day and night skiing, instruction, and rentals. It is a 20-minute drive from the Embassy. Farther afield, the slopes at Mt. St. Marie (Quebec) and Calabogie (Ontario) are 60 miles or 1½ hours away by car. All have a variety of slopes and trails and offer instruction and rentals. Season lift passes are offered at most ski facilities. The elaborate winter sports resort of Mt. Tremblant, Quebec, is about 3 hours from Ottawa.

Ottawa has what is billed as the world’s largest outdoor skating rink. During the winter, a 5-mile stretch of the Rideau Canal between Dow’s Lake and the National Arts Center is cleared and partially lit for ice skating. Warming huts and snackbars are located at convenient intervals along the canal.

Ample facilities for all types of sports, year round, have been developed in and around Ottawa, including ice skating and curling rinks, bowling alleys, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and tennis and squash courts.

The Nepean Sportsplex in the west end and the Orleans Sportsplex in the east are two of the largest in the area. They each contain an ice rink, hockey arena, curling rink, gymnasium, squash courts, indoor swimming pool, auditorium, sauna, snackbar, pub, and restaurant. They offer instruction for all age groups in sports activities as well as physical fitness classes, ski fitness clinics, arts and crafts, ballroom dancing, and ballet and tap dancing.

Members of the Embassy staff and families are eligible for associate membership in the Ottawa Civil Service Recreation Association. The association offers facilities for many sports and leisure activities such as gymnastics, squash, hockey, curling, fencing, shooting, etc., and includes many groups such as stamp, duplicate bridge, and photography clubs.

Most other sports facilities offer instruction for all ages as well. Instruction is also offered through churches, YW–YMCA, and neighborhood community centers. Regardless of your sports preference, you will find an organization that will welcome you.

Summer affords ample opportunities for all types of water sports on the Ottawa, Rideau, and Gatineau Rivers and at nearby lakes. Several yacht clubs have extensive sailing programs. Beaches within Ottawa are limited to one or two spots along the Rideau River and Britannia Beach on the Ottawa River. Facilities at these places are often crowded. Some of the lakes in the area, both in Ontario and Quebec, have developed access roads, beaches, and docks for canoes and boats, while other lakes are more isolated and primitive. Private clubs maintain pools, and many of the newer apartment buildings provide pools for residents and guests.

There are numerous public, private, and semiprivate golf facilities in the Ottawa area. Courses are available for all skill levels. Embassy employees may find membership in one of the several clubs advantageous.

Tennis and squash facilities are available at several private clubs, such as the Ottawa Athletic Club. Municipal tennis courts are scattered about the area. They offer season memberships at reasonable cost or are free on a space-available basis. Instruction is provided at the private and public tennis facilities.

Bicycling and jogging are popular during summer for all age groups. Numerous cycling and jogging trails are available in Ottawa and across the Ottawa River in Gatineau Park. Some roads are closed to auto traffic on Sundays for the exclusive use of hikers, joggers, and cyclists.

For the winter spectator, ice hockey is virtually a mania among children and adults. Ottawa is represented in the Ontario Hockey League by the Ottawa 67’s and in the National Hockey League by the Ottawa Senators.

Canadians are avid baseball fans and root for the American teams as well as the Toronto Blue Jays and Montreal Expos. Tickets for Expos games are sold in Ottawa, and buses are chartered from downtown Ottawa to the baseball stadium in Montreal for selected games. The Ottawa Lynx, the Expos’ Triple-A farm team, plays at the Jetform Stadium and is very popular.

Stock car racing is held in Stittsville, about 20 miles from Ottawa, and there are horseracing tracks just south of Ottawa and across the river in Quebec.

Numerous parks, playgrounds, and outdoor skating rinks amply provide for children’s needs. Family life is important in Ottawa, and children are evident everywhere.

A wide range of choice and price in sports equipment is available in Ottawa. Prices generally are higher than in the U.S. but stores have sales often. Furthermore, some sports stores maintain a sizable stock of used equipment (ice skates, for example) at reduced prices. Some personnel prefer to bring their sports equipment to post or to order it from the U.S. after they arrive.

Recreation and Social Life

Touring and Outdoor Activities Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:38 PM

Tours of the Parliament buildings are conducted daily year round. During summer there are sightseeing tours and moonlight cruises on the Rideau Canal and the Ottawa River. Tours of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police headquarters, the Queen’s Printer, the Royal Canadian Mint, and other government agencies can be arranged upon request. Within an easy drive of Ottawa are the St. Lawrence Seaway, the Thousand Islands area, and the restored pioneer settlement of Upper Canada Village.

Ottawa has several museums of interest: the National Gallery of Art; the Museum of Science and Technology, with unique viewer participation exhibits especially recommended for school-age children; the Museum of Civilization in Hull (housing the only convertible IMAX/OMNIMAX theater in the world); the Bytown Museum (natural history); and Laurier House (former residence of Canadian Prime Ministers).

In the greater Ottawa area various municipal, provincial, and federal authorities operate numerous parks. Much of the land adjacent to the Ottawa River on the Ontario side is part of the National Capital Commission and is maintained as parkland, with hiking and bicycle trails which serve as cross-country skiing trails in winter. In nearby Quebec is the largest of the area parks, Gatineau Park, 75,000 acres maintained by the National Capital Commission, which offers opportunities to artists, hikers, photographers, naturalists, skiers, and picnickers. The nearest of the Gatineau Hills is only 20 minutes away by car. The valley of the Gatineau River is served by 100 miles of hard-surfaced road and from this several other clay and gravel roads branch off into the back country to isolated picnic spots, fishing lakes, hunting grounds, and picturesque scenery.

Ottawa citizens often form private fishing and hunting clubs that acquire and stock private lakes within driving distance. Embassy officers can sometimes join such clubs. Public or Crown lands, other than in the protected areas of Gatineau Park, are generally open to hunters and fishermen. The Province of Ontario will issue hunting licenses for a nominal fee to anyone holding a valid license from the U.S. who successfully completes a written test and a practical demonstration of hunting knowledge. Anyone not holding a valid license must complete a course before taking the exam. At present, all Embassy personnel who wish to obtain Quebec Province hunting licenses must purchase them for a nominal fee. Complimentary fishing licenses for Ontario and Quebec are offered to all accredited members of the staff.

Within a 60-mile radius of Ottawa are many recreation areas that provide a variety of outdoor activities. In summer, many Ottawans leave town for cottages on Canadian lakes and rivers. It is possible to arrange weekend or weekly rental of cottages outside of Ottawa.

Summer camps are not used as extensively in Ottawa as in the U.S. However, Ottawa has many day camps, one of the most popular being Timberlea which runs for various time periods in July and August. Overnight camps are run by the Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, and the YMCA. For details, interested parents may obtain brochures from the Embassy CLO.

Toronto and Montreal, Canada’s two largest urban centers, are both close to Ottawa — Toronto is 275 miles to the west and Montreal is 120 miles to the east. Toronto, 5 hours away by road and rail and 55 minutes away by air, is the business center of Canada. Visitors will find a wide variety of reasonable hotel accommodations, extensive shopping facilities, museums, restaurants, and a lively theater district. Montreal is only 2 hours from Ottawa by road and rail, or 35 minutes by air, and offers a definite French-Canadian atmosphere, which can be enjoyed in a day’s visit or longer. Attractive shopping areas, numerous restaurants, nightclubs, museums, and theaters are available. Most Embassy personnel visit Montreal several times during their tour. (See Toronto and Montreal for additional details.)

The nearest town in the U.S. is Ogdensburg, N.Y., about 60 miles south of Ottawa. Watertown, N.Y., another 60 miles beyond Ogdensburg, is a larger center also within easy driving distance. Farther afield, but still within 300 miles of Ottawa, are the scenic attractions of the Adirondacks in New York, such as Lake Placid, and the resort areas of Vermont and New Hampshire with their numerous skiing, camping, and historical attractions.

The Canadian tourist industry is quite developed and offers attractive package trips to warmer climates during winter, such as to Barbados, the Bahamas, and Jamaica, as well as bargain charters to Europe. Package tours and reduced airfares within Canada are not as attractive. The principal Canadian air carrier, Air Canada, offers frequent and reasonably reliable service between Ottawa and other major Canadian cities. Ottawa’s airport is not a major one, however, and travelers wishing to take direct, widebody jets on cross-country or transatlantic trips must make connections in Toronto or Montreal.

Nonstop flights to Boston, New York, and Washington, D.C., are available. Air travelers to other major U.S. cities must generally make connections in either Montreal or Toronto. Washington, D.C., is about 600 miles by road from Ottawa, via excellent interstate highways. New York City can be reached in 1 day by car and is about 455 miles from Ottawa, also via interstate highway.

All types of photographic films, equipment, and development services are available locally. Some personnel rely on mailers to U.S. laboratories for photo development.

Recreation and Social Life

Entertainment Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:39 PM

The National Arts Center is a cultural center where national and international stars, orchestras, and ballet and theatrical troupes perform regularly. Popular soloists and musical groups also perform regularly at Ottawa and Carleton universities in programs that are open to the public. The Ottawa Little Theater, with a cast of amateur players, offers a full season of plays.

Ottawa has several movie complexes and an active National Film Theater whose showings of classic and foreign films attract movie buffs to the auditorium in the Public Archives every weekday evening.

The National Gallery of Canada owns a small but excellent collection of European and Canadian paintings and a small group of contemporary American art. Special exhibits are scheduled throughout the year. The gallery also sponsors film shows and lectures about art.

Ottawa has a great many very good restaurants, many of which specialize in ethnic cuisine. Dancing is provided nightly in several nightclubs, hotels, and restaurants in town. Across the Ottawa River in Hull there is a new casino and many excellent restaurants as well.

Annual events of interest are: the Winterlude Festival in February; the Tulip Festival in the latter half of May; and the Central Canada Exhibition, a week-long country fair held each August.

Many people take advantage of a long summer weekend to attend one or more performances of the Shakespeare Festival at Stratford, Ontario and the Shaw Festival at Niagara-on-the-Lake, both of which are near Toronto.

A monthly free publication available in hotels and restaurants, What’s On In Ottawa, lists all local performances, professional and amateur, and lectures, films, club meetings, hobby groups, etc., for that month. The National Arts Center and each museum publish monthly advance listings of events in their buildings. The weekend edition of the Ottawa Citizen is also a source of information on entertainment and dining out.

Recreation and Social Life

Social Activities Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:40 PM

Because of the absence of a language barrier and the openness of Canadian society, Americans blend easily into the local scene.

Entertainment by Embassy personnel is generally informal. Embassy officers with extensive contacts in the diplomatic and government communities, whether they regard entertainment as an obligation or a pleasure, can expect an active social life in Ottawa.

Informal contact with Canadians outside official circles can be as extensive or as limited as Embassy personnel desire. School, community, and church activities; neighborhood organizations; and recreational facilities are places where many Embassy personnel and their families can meet and get to know Canadians on a personal basis.

Most entertaining is done in the home, in town in the winter, and at nearby summer cottages when weather permits. Since household help is in as short supply as it is in Washington, D.C., less emphasis is put on dinners, and most functions are cocktail parties or informal buffets.

Ottawa has a number of social clubs, which provides opportunities for contact with Canadians. Their activities vary from monthly luncheons to operating dining rooms, residential facilities, and extensive social schedules. Membership at most clubs is by invitation but is often extended to Embassy personnel and their families. Ottawa has an active international women’s club and University Women’s Club. Boy Scouts and Girl Guides activities are usually organized through the schools or churches.

Local civic-minded groups such as Kiwanis, Rotary, Lions, and Optimists are well organized and quite active.

Official Functions

Nature of Functions Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:40 PM

The diplomatic corps in Ottawa has many official functions to which Embassy officers are invited, with National Day receptions topping the list. Depending on the level of involvement with the diplomatic and government communities, an official could be invited to events for visiting foreign dignitaries or farewell receptions/dinners for departing diplomats and receptions to introduce officers just posted to a particular Mission. Embassy officials might attend working luncheons/dinners with host country officials, and receptions for visiting trade delegations. Involvement in this type of entertainment would depend on rank or personal interest. In the past, most official entertaining was done in the home of the host. Since the opening of the new U.S. Embassy in October 1999, several events have been held on site. The main auditorium and adjoining room can comfortably house 250 reception guests. Embassy personnel and their spouses can expect to receive an occasional invitation to dinners or receptions at the Ambassador’s residence and the DCM’s home.

Official Functions

Standards of Social Conduct Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:41 PM

Social usage is much less formal in Ottawa than in older capitals. Calling cards are not used. Most officers use the standard business card. There are standard computer programs that allow employees to create their own cards. This Mission customarily uses the term “Embassy of the United States” rather than “American Embassy.”

Spouses of Embassy personnel may have an active social calendar if they wish. Participation in such functions is based on personal interest and is voluntary. This applies to participating in informal activities or functions to welcome employees and their families to post.

Special Information Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:42 PM

Post Orientation Program

An extensive orientation program is unnecessary here. New arrivals are provided with Welcome Kits containing city maps and pamphlets. Also included are several documents covering various aspects of personal and professional living in Ottawa. In addition the Embassy has a Community Liaison Office (CLO) which assists new arrivals with housing, education, medical, and other concerns. It is located in the Chancery and welcomes visits from dependents as well as employees.

There is a formal “check-in” procedure, which takes a new employee to various offices within the Embassy for briefings on housing, security, pay, allowances, protocol, and other topics of interest to newcomers. Each new arrival will be assisted with settling in by the CLO and by his or her receiving office in setting up initial meetings with the Ambassador and Deputy Chief of Mission.

The Embassy operates a very modest French-language program with priority given to officers on language probation and employees assigned to language-designated positions. Classes for other employees may be established depending on availability of funds. Representatives of other agencies whose headquarters have agreed to reimburse the State Department for such training may be accepted in Embassy classes.

Consulate General - Calgary, Alberta

Post City Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:58 PM

Calgary is located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, 3,440 feet above sea level. It is notable for being the largest city on the prairies, the center of Canada’s oil and gas industry, and the heart of an extensive ranching and agricultural area. The jagged peaks of the Rockies rise to a height of 12,000 feet only 65 miles to the west of the city, and they can be seen from the offices of the Consulate General.

Calgary, founded in 1875 when the Royal Northwest Mounted Police established a fort at the junction of the Bow and Elbow Rivers, had a population of 951,395 in 2001, up 16% since 1996. A U.S. Consular Agency was established at Lethbridge on June 1, 1891, soon after railway connections were opened between Great Falls, Montana, and what was then known as the Northwest Territories. In 1905 Alberta became a province, and in July 1906 the United States established a Consulate in Calgary. By 1912 almost half a million Americans had migrated to Alberta. In 1914 gas and oil were discovered at Bow Island and Turner Valley, and important agricultural marketing and processing facilities were established in Calgary. Rapid growth started in 1947 with the discovery of oil in Leduc and the establishment of Calgary as the administrative center of the oil development and exploration industry in Canada. As the area grew, there was a need for expanded consular services. A Consular Agency was opened in Edmonton in March 1914; it closed some 30 years later. On August 21, 1963, the Calgary Consulate’s status was elevated to that of Consulate General, and when the American Consulate General in Winnipeg, Manitoba, was closed on July 31, 1986, after 113 years of operation, Calgary’s consular district again expanded. It now includes the Provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, as well as the Northwest Territories, and is one of the largest land mass consular districts. It serves a population of 5,270,900 (2001 estimate). Consulate General Calgary is the northernmost post in North America.

The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:59 PM

Calgary functions primarily as a consular post, but political, economic, energy, agricultural reporting, public diplomacy, and commercial work are increasingly important.

The Consulate General is staffed by 4 Americans — the principal officer, a consul (and deputy principal officer), a vice consul, and a Foreign Commercial Service officer — and 17 permanent locally hired Canadian FSN and American staff. In addition, the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service and the U.S. Customs have about 45 officers at Calgary, Edmonton, and Winnipeg International Airports. The Consulate General is located in an office building (Rocky Mountain Plaza) directly across the street from City Hall and the Performing Arts Centre. The address is 10th Floor, 615 Macleod Tr, SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2G 4T8 and the office public phone number is (403) 266–8962. Office hours are 8 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday.

Housing

Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 12/4/2003 1:59 PM

Calgary has several good hotels that generally offer special government rates. They include the Hyatt and Palliser Hotels and the International and Executive Suites Hotels where facilities for families wishing temporary housing, including kitchens, are available. Employees should contact the post in advance about temporary housing needs so appropriate arrangements can be made. Hotel space is almost impossible to find during the annual Calgary Stampede in July, and may be limited at other times of the year.

Housing

Permanent Housing Last Updated: 12/4/2003 2:07 PM

The official residence of the consul general is the only Government-provided housing. It is a 20-minute drive from the Consulate General and is located in the Mount Royal area, a well-established neighborhood dating back many years in Calgary's history and once known as “American Hill.” The house, purchased in 1984 and completely renovated in 1986, has four bedrooms and a guest suite, but it badly lacks storage space. Access to the residence is gained by long flights of stairs that are very difficult for those with physical handicaps or leg problems. It is fully furnished except for television, stereo, pictures, and books. China, silverware, flatware, and some linen and kitchenware are supplied for representational purposes, but in limited quantities.

Other personnel look to the private housing market to either rent or purchase accommodations on their own without assistance from post. Single-family homes and apartments are available for rent. Suitable apartments can be found. The availability of furnished houses or suites for rent is limited. Furnished houses are sometimes available but usually not for more than 3–4 months during the winter while the owners are vacationing in warmer climates. No special housing problems such as “key money” or unfavorable lease conditions exist. Standard leases are required by the landlord who usually pays all taxes and assessments. A diplomatic clause is acceptable.

Purchase prices on homes are somewhat less than in the Washington, D.C., area, but because of the uncertain real estate market, potential buyers should exercise caution. The commercial or residential vacancy rate in Calgary for the last decade has remained under 1%.

Housing

Furnishings Last Updated: 12/4/2003 2:00 PM

No Government-owned furniture or furnishing is available for privately leased quarters. All apartments have stoves and refrigerators whether rented furnished or unfurnished; draperies are sometimes provided. Except for a few older buildings, most apartments have wall-to-wall carpeting. Unfurnished houses do not always have stoves, refrigerators, laundry appliances, draperies, or wall-to-wall carpeting. Most types of furniture and furnishings are available. New furniture and furnishings and electrical appliances and equipment, including radios, stereos, and TV sets, can often be purchased more cheaply in the U.S. The climate is very dry and, even if humidifying units are used, furniture may warp or crack.

Housing

Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 12/4