Tips for Batswana Students Moving to Canada

I was recently asked to provide some tips for Batswana students moving to Canada.  Here's what I came up with, based on my observations of cultural differences.

1. Winter wear. Canadian winters can be long and cold.  You will need to have warm winter wear.  There is good selection in Canada, so you don't have to stock up here, but you do need to budget accordingly.  Invest in winter boots with a good sole.  Streets and sidewalks can get very icy.
2. Crossing the street. Don't jay-walk.  Cross the streets only at the marked crossings.  People get ticketed for jay-walking.  Remember when you first arrive to look in the opposite direction from what you are used to before crossing.
3. Invitations. If new friends invite you out for dinner, drinks, etc., don't assume that they will pay for (treat) you.  They may expect you to pay your own bill (go dutch).
4. Meals. Lunch is served earlier than it is here; usually at 12:00 pm.  People will often have a light lunch at noon and then a bigger dinner in the evening, at around 6:00 pm.
5. Greetings. You may notice that strangers don't greet one another on the street like they do here.  Don't be offended if someone doesn't return your greeting. If they don't know you, they may not feel comfortable talking to you.  Strangers tend to avoid eye contact, especially in elevators.  However, if you say you want help or directions, people are usually pretty helpful.
6. Addresses.  People are less formal, and will often ask that you call them by their first name.  Your professors may be a little more formal than other people, though.
7. Personal space.  People like to keep their distance and aren't as used to physical contact as are people here. 
8. Public displays of affection. It is not common for heterosexual men to hold hands or have physical contact with one another in public.  You will see couples displaying affection, though.
9. Dating.  It takes time to get to know people.  Don't be discouraged, but try not to come on too strongly.
10. Bartering.  It is not common to barter, particularly not in stores.  You can negotiate, though.