Just so folks understand the difference between countries in their response to COVID19. Here is my experience going into the USA and coming back into Canada. A tale of two countries, a thread.

I drove down to California for my grandmother's funeral almost 2 weeks ago. My partner and I decided that driving down with a packed lunch and a safe place to sleep was safer than flying. Was it? After reading many articles, it wasn't conclusive Living in uncertain times...

Going into the USA, the border agent asked me where I was going, where I lived, who was I visiting. Standard questions, but nothing about COVID or any guidance on how to protect myself or fellow Americans.

I could go anywhere, see anyone, attend any event.

I didn't. I stayed outdoors when out of my accommodations and minimized interactions.

Coming into Canada, I was read the Quarantine Act at the border (literally), asked if I had a 14 day quarantine plan and a place to stay isolated from others with delivery of necessities. They also informed me that fines and jail time were possible if I did not follow guidelines.

I had 48 hours to get (as directly as possible) to my home, once there I was to stay isolated in a room. I could share a kitchen (if necessary), but always while wearing a mask and keeping a distance from others in the house. I can not see anyone else, not outdoors, not 6ft away.

On day 5 of quarantine the provincial government called me to ensure my plan was going well. The bad reception at my place meant a couple of their calls went straight to voicemail. If I hadn't answered this last one I would have gotten a visit by the local RCMP.

They will call me again in 5 days.

I'm not going to lie, as an extrovert this quarantine is HARD. But it is worth it to keep my community safe, and to get us to a hugging and gathering way of life sooner.

In Conclusion, Canada is taking the threat seriously and is making sure that folks are protecting others. The U.S. is not taking it seriously.

When talking to colleagues in other countries (USA/Brazil) they say to me: "Oh, that's how a functioning country does it". I agree.