Key travel info

British Columbia is a highly hospitable environment
for visitors. Its road systems are modern and well
marked, it has accommodations to suit every taste
and budget, and its businesses are accustomed to
serving clients from all over the world. Still, having
some key travel information in advance can save
you time and increase your odds of a trouble-free
trip. Here is your distance calculator (PDF) >>

Entry into Canada
Entry into Canada: United States citizens must show photographic
identification (such as a driver's licence) and proof of citizenship
(such as a birth certificate or certificate of citizenship), or a
passport. Visitors from other countries must be in possession
of a valid national passport and may also require a visa. When
travelling with children, carry each child's birth certificate. When
only one parent is travelling with the child(ren), he or she should
carry written permission from the other parent. Divorced parents
who share custody should also carry copies of the legal custody documents. Adults who are not parents or guardians should
have written permission from parents or guardians to supervise
the children.

BC has several ports of entry. Major border crossings, including
the Douglas (Peace Arch) crossing, are open 24 hours while
others operate on a limited schedule.

Driving laws
Seatbelts must be worn by drivers and passengers in BC.
Children under five must use an approved safety seat.
Motorcyclists and cyclists must wear helmets.

Drive on the right-hand side of the road and, if it's safe to do so,
feel free to turn right at a red light after making a full stop,
unless signs indicate otherwise. If you are involved in an accident, immediately contact the local police or RCMP, and then contact
your insurance company. It is a criminal offense to operate or
be in the care or control of a vehicle, whether in motion or not,
with a blood alcohol content of more than 0.08 percent.

Speed limits are posted in kilometres per hour.

Out of province drivers' licences and international drivers'
licences are valid in BC for a maximum of six months. Drivers
with a non-English language licence are advised to obtain
an international licence.

Emergency information
In emergency situations, contact the local police, ambulance
service, fire department and other emergency services by
dialing 911, a free call from any telephone. The news
media and many tourist facilities cooperate with the RCMP
to communicate urgent messages to visitors. If you see or
hear your name, please phone the number given.

If you are a visitor to Canada, you should clarify what
coverage your personal insurance carrier provides before
you leave your home country and, if necessary, obtain
additional health insurance before coming to BC.

Taxes
Most purchases in British Columbia are subject to sales
tax totalling 14% of the purchase price. The provincial sales
tax (PST) of 7% applies to retail purchases and leases with
the exception of liquor, which is taxed at 10%. Some items,
including groceries, restaurant meals, children's clothing
and books, are PST exempt. The federal Goods and Services
Tax (GST) of 7% is applicable to most purchased goods
and services, but rebates on accommodations and purchases
taken out of the country can be claimed by non-residents
of Canada. Some restrictions apply. For more information
call 1-800-66-VISIT from within Canada; outside
Canada call 902-432-5608.

Tipping
It is customary to tip between 15% and 20% at bars and
restaurants in BC. Tips are also given to tour guides, and
for taxi service, spa treatments and haircuts. Porters at
airports, railway stations and hotels generally expec
t $1-2 (CDN) per item of luggage.

Public Holidays
Banks, government offices and some stores will be
closed on the following days:

New Year's Day - January 1
Good Friday - April 14
Easter Monday - April 17
Victoria Day - May 22
Canada Day - July 1
BC Day - August 7
Labour Day - September 4
Thanksgiving Day - October 9
Remembrance Day - November 11
Christmas Day - December 25
Boxing Day - December 26