Thursday, November 17, 2011

Canadian Travel Tips

The climate in Canada varies across the country, and according to the season. There are four distinct seasons in all regions, but actual temperatures and humidity vary.

The Maritime provinces, Ontario and Québec are more humid than the western provinces. Temperatures in Halifax, Nova Scotia range from 32 °F in January to a very temperate 75 °F in July. Plan on wearing a sweater and light raincoat in the summer. Québec and Ontario are usually a little colder in the winter and slightly warmer in the summer.

The greatest variation of temperatures is to be found in the mountains. Mountain temperatures average from 3°F in the winter to 75°F during the summer. However, when visiting the Rockies, be sure to have layers of comfortable clothing available in case of a sudden change in weather conditions (in the mountains, even summer evenings tend to be cool).

If you are planning on walks or hikes, bring sturdy shoes and a warm jacket. If you plan to visit the Rockies in the winter, come dressed for snow – make sure your outer clothing is warm and wind/water repellent.

Vancouver and Victoria rarely experience temperatures below freezing. These cities enjoy the mildest weather in Canada, averaging 41°F in the winter and 73°F during the summer. However, an umbrella and raincoat are recommended for Vancouver year-round, just in case it rains.

The currency used in Canada is the Canadian dollar. Canadian bills are accepted in denominations of $100.00, $50.00, $20.00, $10.00 and $5.00. Coins are in denominations of $2.00 (called a “toonie”), $1.00 (called a “loonie”), $0.25 (called a “quarter”), $0.10 (called a “dime”), $0.05 (called a “nickel”), and $0.01 (called a “penny”). We recommend carrying Canadian dollar travellers cheques, as they are accepted as currency at most hotels, stores and restaurants. Most major credit cards are widely accepted across the country.

The Canadian Government applies a Goods & Services Tax (currently 5%) on the sale of all products and services in Canada; this tax is commonly referred to as "GST".  There are allowable rebates of the tax on all short-term accommodations provided to non-resident guests. Please inquire with your Travel Agent.

Service charges usually are not included on bills in restaurants or bars in Canada. It is standard practice to tip service personnel 12% to 15% of the bill. Customary gratuity to tour guides and motorcoach drivers is $1.00 to $2.00 per person per day. This should be handled on a voluntary, individual basis.

All international visitors must clear Canadian Customs and Immigration at the arrival airport. Visitors will receive customs documents from in-flight personnel to complete before landing. Once on the ground, retrieve luggage and follow the directions to the Customs Hall. Visitors will be required to state what articles they are bringing into Canada, country of origin, their Canadian destination and their duration of visit in Canada.

Presented By:
Rawhide Travel & Tours Inc
6008 W Bell Rd # F105
Glendale, AZ 85308-3793
(602) 843-5100 

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