Canada General Info
As you travel, seek out the authentic not just the trendy: take day trips to towns outside the big cities; buy a picnic lunch from an outdoor market; and take the time to talk to the locals, even speaking a few words in their language. And, above and beyond all else, respect your host country. Be aware and appreciate (not violate or intrude upon) your surroundings and you will not only deepen your cultural experience, but defy any loud and intrusive stereotype often attached to tourists.
General Info
Planning your basic route is one of the smartest things to do. You can always change course once there, but first make a general outline of your itinerary taking into consideration your time and money constraints and the kind of experience you're looking for. Also, ask yourself what you are after…festivals and parties or a more culturally unique trip.
Based on your criteria, and to ensure that you're spending more time sightseeing and less time on a train or bus, select the most straightforward path to your desired destinations. There are numerous air, rail and bus options to choose from based on your time and money needs which are fully detailed in our transport section. Finally, don't cheat yourself by quickly hopping from one city or state to the next - you won't get a real appreciation for it. Traveling is about the quality of your experience, not the quantity of places visited.
Visitor Visas
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Health Insurance
Obtaining travel insurance covering medical expenses, theft and loss is highly recommended. There are many (youth and student) organizations that offer simple and inexpensive plans. Check with your local travel agent or on-line before taking off.
Safety Tips
Travel smart: be on guard, yet be reasonable. Be curious, but trust your instincts. Here are a few tips:
- Keep your money and valuable documents (passport, airline/rail tickets) close to you body - preferably in a money belt that is strapped under your clothing to your body
- Keep a copy of your valuable documents (passport, tickets) and credit card emergency numbers in a separate place from the originals as well as leaving a set of copies at home. eKit offers secure document storage for no charge when you sign up for their free service.
- Don't get caught in large crowds (3 or more) where pickpockets can easily overwhelm you.
- Keep your luggage within eyeshot, or if you plan on sleeping on the train, fasten it to the rack with a padlock.
- If you have a day pack, keep it in the front of your body so that it cannot be zipped open without you knowing.
Money & Banks
ATMs are everywhere including grocery stores and supermarkets. Try to avoid non-bank ATM machines (fraud issues) Bank hours vary but are open to at least 4pm, often on Saturday too.
Tipping & Sales Tax
Tipping is expected from the taxi driver to wait staff (10-20%, avg 15%) depending on the quality of the service. Canadian GST is from 7%-14%.
Phone Calls & Phone Cards
Phone numbers are divided into 3 digit area codes followed by a seven digit #. Dial ‘1’ first when you are required to dial the area code
Check your hostel for the best phone card for the area (some cards have a per call or connection fee and a payphone surcharge, flat rate or per minute)
