CANADIAN MOUNTAIN HOLIDAYS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHERE are these destinations?
The Canadian mountain resorts of Whistler, Sun Peaks, and Panorama, and the city of Vancouver, are all located in the southern part of the province of British Columbia, in western Canada.
The Pacific Ocean lies to the west of B.C., and the US state of Alaska lies northwest. The Canadian province of Alberta is to the east, and the Yukon and Northwest Territories lie to the north. The US states of Washington, Idaho and Montana lie on British Columbia's southern border.

What TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION do I need?
It is the responsibility of the traveler to ensure that valid travel documentation is carried by all members of the party, and that all persons in the party are eligible for entry to Canada. If you will be entering Canada from any other country, it is recommended that all travelers possess a passport valid at least 6 months after their return home. 
At least 3 months before you leave home, we recommend that you contact your nearest Canadian government representative (consulate or embassy) for details about requirements and restrictions for entering Canada, as well as your country of residence’s immigration department regarding re-entry to that nation. 
All children, regardless of age, should have their own passports. If children are traveling alone, or with one parent or a guardian, be sure that the non-traveling parent/s provide the relevant documentation allowing the children to enter Canada unaccompanied, with the other parent, or a guardian.
Neither Compass Tours, nor any of its partners, will be responsible should any person be denied entry to Canada, or re-entry into the country of residence, for any reason. No refund is possible for arrangements cancelled because entry to Canada has been denied for any reason.
Note to all citizens/residents of the Western Hemisphere: As of January 23, 2007, the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative requires valid passports for all air travellers between Canada, the USA, Mexico, Central America, South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. From January 1, 2008 (date subject to change without prior notice), this will include border crossings by land and sea.

What's the WEATHER like?
B.C.'s weather can be changeable due to the proximity of mountains and ocean - and the current state of climate change makes forecasting tricky. The height of summer is July and August, while the coolest part of winter is generally January and February. It doesn't often snow in Vancouver, even in winter, but in the mountain resorts snow can fall at any time of year, right down to the village elevation. In summer it is daylight from before 5am until about 10pm, while in winter it can get dark as early at 4.30pm, and it doesn't get light until about 7.30-8am.

What's the BUSIEST time of year?
Without a doubt, the busiest times during winter are Christmas/New Year (from around 22 December to about January 2) and the US President's Week (usually mid-February) holiday. In summer, the busiest time is during July and August, when the best of the warm weather can be expected. These are also the most expensive times to visit - accommodation, lift tickets, golf, etc, always cost more during peak periods. The quietest times, and therefore least expensive, in winter are the first half of December, most of January, and after Easter. In summer there are fewer people around in early spring and fall, when the kids are in school.

When's the CHEAPEST time to come?
If you visit between the main seasons, ie: spring (April/May) and autumn (October/November), you'll find the accommodation more reasonably priced than during summer and winter proper. Beware, though, that during low season some services are not in operation - shops and restaurants may be closed for their annual holidays and/or renovations, and the ski hills and golf courses may also be closed. If you're looking for a good time for a quiet get-away in the cool, clean mountain air, this is it! Walk, hike, cycle, relax beside a fire with a good book ... and no crowds!

How do I GET AROUND?
In summer, most visitors drive themselves as having a private vehicle gives them the freedom to explore this beautiful area, and take advantage of some of the more remote activities available in the mountains.
Due to often extremely challenging road conditions during winter, we strongly recommend that visitors take advantage of the various chauffeur-driven or public transport options available during the snow season. There are scheduled shuttles, limousine services, and private car/minivan services with experienced drivers, all ready to take good care of you!
Remember that many accommodation properties are within easy walking distance of the village and lift bases, are on a free shuttle or bus route - and there are taxis, too!

What CLOTHES should I bring?
The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so you should be prepared for just about anything at any time of year!
In the height of summer, shorts and tee shirts are usually all you'll need during the day, with a light sweater or windbreaker for the evenings. It is always a good idea to bring rain gear along, though, just in case!
For winter in the mountains you'll need full cold-weather outfitting - waterproof outerwear, warm long underwear and socks, lined waterproof footwear, gloves, and a warm hat.
Winter clothing can be purchased in the resorts, especially sports-specific gear, but be prepared to pay premium rates!

What is the DRINKING AGE (for alcoholic beverages) in Canada?
Adults 18 years of age and older may be served, or purchase, alcoholic beverages in Canada. People who appear younger will be asked to provide proof of majority.

Can I use my home DRIVER'S LICENCE to drive in Canada?
Regulations vary depending on your country of origin, so please be sure to check before you leave home. Canadian car rental companies will accept your home driver's licence from some countries, while residents of other countries may have to show an International Driver's Permit.
Please be aware that if you have a Driving-Under-the-Influence conviction and immigration officials believe you intend to drive while you're in Canada, you may be refused entry to the country.

Will I see the NORTHERN LIGHTS?
Yes, it is possible that you will have the chance to see a display of the Aurora Borealis during your stay! Unfortunately, it is not possible to predict when they will show themselves - and it is fairly rare, just a few nights each year. So keep your eyes peeled - you'll never forget it! (When I've seen them, the northern lights have appeared during the wee hours, in winter, on particularly chilly, clear moonless nights).

Is the SHOPPING good?
Yes, the shopping is fantastic! Particularly in Vancouver, Whistler, and Sun Peaks, where there are many opportunities to exercise your plastic!
Don't forget that in Canada prices are quoted excluding taxes - 7% B.C. Provincial Sales Tax, and 6% General Sales Tax - these will be added at the check-out and must be paid by everyone.

Is TIPPING expected in Canada?
Yes, it is customary to tip restaurant servers, ski instructors, concierges, housekeeping staff, taxi drivers, etc. The amount is absolutely at your discretion, but standard is around 15%. For exceptional service, feel free to give more - but don't hesitate to withhold a gratuity if you don't feel that it has been earned!

Is there a TAX REFUND for non-residents of Canada?
Yes. Currently only GST on accommodation is refundable (there is no longer a refund of GST paid on items purchased). You’ll need to submit the original invoice from Compass Tours, which shows a zero “amount due”. Information about the claim process will be included in your arrival pack. Refunds may be processed with the assistance of a company like Global Refund (they charge a small handling fee to assist you), or directly with the Canadian government which provides instructions on its website. The availability of GST refunds may change or be discontinued without prior notice.

What effect will the 2010 VANCOUVER WINTER OLYMPIC & PARALYMPIC GAMES have on my travel arrangements?
The 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games are scheduled for February 12-28, 2010, and the Paralympic Games are set for March 12-21, 2010.
The Olympics will bring great benefits to Whistler and Vancouver, and Canada as a nation, in the form of improved and expanded sporting facilities, as well as increased world-wide recognition. Of course, many facilities will probably not be open to the public until after the Games, and infrastructure construction will probably be evident right up to the start of the event.
For the run-up to and during the Games, both Whistler and Vancouver accommodation will be at a premium, and access to some facilities will probably be restricted. We would suggest that unless you're coming to watch, volunteer at, or participate in, the Games, you avoid Whistler and Vancouver between January 2010 and mid-March 2010, or your own enjoyment could be severely impacted. Instead, why not visit Sun Peaks or Panorama in January, February and March 2010?!

Why can't I BOOK ARRANGEMENTS ONLINE through this website?
Creating a travel package from scratch can be a confusing and complicated business, especially if you haven't travelled a lot, or you've never visited a particular destination before. We can make the process simple for you, and save you hours of research time, by taking the time to learn about your needs and then working with you to create your ideal itinerary!
Compass Tours is committed to providing exceptional service to its clients. A big part of this commitment is our willingness to share our own experience in the travel industry and personal knowledge of the destinations. An online booking system would not allow you to benefit from this wealth of information!
Ease of booking, as well as your convenience, comfort and enjoyment, are of paramount importance to us - contact us so that we can get started planning your next Canadian mountain holiday!

WHO IS Compass Tours?
Please visit our About Us page for more information about Compass Tours.

Email us if you have a question to add to our FAQ page!