Q: 2) Is it best to convert U.S. currency into Canadian? I’ve heard that American money is accepted in Canada.



A: While many places do accept U.S. currency, the rate of exchange is generally not as good as if you exchanged it into Canadian currency at a Bank or Foreign Exchange. These are located at the airports (if you’re flying) or in downtown areas. If you are arriving on the weekend, you should consider exchanging your money at the airport since weekend banking hours are limited. Most hotels can also exchange money for you, but the rates may vary.

Q: 3) Since Canada is an international destination, are the sales taxes included in the prices like they are in Europe?



A: No. Both Federal and in most provinces Provincial taxes will be added to the purchase price (as they are in the U.S.). This applies to restaurants, bars, retail locations, etc. You can apply to have the Federal (G.S.T.) portion of the tax reimbursed after you have returned home – but only on the objects you have brought home with you and if they meet a minimum expenditure. You will not be reimbursed for anything consumed in Canada. You will also not receive any reimbursement for your hotel accommodations, since MTL VACATIONS is tax exempt and therefore does not charge clients the Federal tax. Tax forms are available at all Canadian airports and at Canadian tourism offices.

Q: 4) What kind of food is available in Canada? Is it all French food?



A:
No. Canada has virtually every ethnic group represented in its assorted restaurants: French, Italian, Chinese, Portuguese, Thai, Mexican, Canadian, etc. The French restaurants tend to be quite authentic, particularly throughout the province of Quebec. However, there are also the usual American chains such as McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Burger King, etc., but often they have Canadian specialties in addition to the standard fare, such as “poutine” in Quebec, which consists of French Fries, melted cheese and gravy. Another Canadian specialty found in delis is Montréal Smoked Meat, which is similar to corned beef, but seasoned with a different marinade and tumbled, so it is tender, flavorful and delicious!

Q: 5) I don’t speak French. Will I have a problem in Quebec?



A:
Quebec is as French as you would like it to be! If you don’t know any French at all, you will find that most people, particularly in the hotels and restaurants, speak both English and French fluently. If you would like a chance to practice the French you learned in school, you will have all the opportunity you would like. Just visit the more French areas, such as rue St. Denis in Montréal, or Quebec City and the Charlevoix region - in fact, most of the countryside has a distinct French flavor. You will definitely feel like you’re in France! No matter what your situation, if you just said, “Bonjour” when you greeted your waiter, or “Merci” you’ll probably enjoy your experience even more. The people in Quebec have a European “joie de vivre” mixed with North American friendliness. It’s the best of both worlds!

Q: 6) How much time would I need to visit different Canadian cities?



A: A weekend in one of our Canadian cities can be the perfect getaway, and weekends (2 nights/3 days) are our best selling packages. It allows just enough time to do some exploring, have a few wonderful dining experiences, shop at some interesting boutiques, relax in the hotel pool, enjoy some of the unique cultural differences, and just appreciate the change of scenery. And because Canada is another country, you will definitely feel that you have had an “international” vacation.

If you are not limited to a weekend, how long you stay depends on how well you want to know the city and what your interests are: do you just want to do the city tour, or do you like to visit art or science museums, or other historic locations? Do you want to attend a sports event, theatre or concert? Are you interested in golfing or skiing?

In general, we would say: 2 full days minimum for Montréal, Toronto, Ottawa., Vancouver. This should exclude the travel dates, if possible. You should really allow 2 full days for Quebec City, as well; however, the day trip from Montréal is a popular seller. It’s 3 hours each way by VIA RAIL, and you have the chance to stroll around within the walled city, visit a few of the historic sites, have lunch and return to Montréal. For more in-depth touring, you would need to plan to stay one or two nights in Quebec City itself. This would give you the opportunity to visit the beautiful countryside nearby and dine at more of the wonderful restaurants!

Q: 7) What about some of the Canadian resorts and spas?



A: Canada offers a wonderful variety of European resorts and spas. Some of these experiences can be booked in combination with a city stay, such as a Montréal and Laurentians combination package. Or you can just relax and enjoy the full resort experience. Both Tremblant in Quebec and Whistler in British Columbia are complete pedestrian resort villages, offering a multitude of activities, from skiing in the Winter and early Spring, to hiking, swimming, tennis, skating, etc. in Summer and Fall. Each village has a wide selection of accommodations, along with assorted pubs and restaurants and retail shops. In addition, Tremblant has Le Spa Scandinave, a complete Scandinavian- style Spa, offering a full line of spa services, including Swedish massages, and mineral baths. Transfers can be arranged from the city airports if you prefer not to rent a car.

Other resort areas are located in the Laurentian mountains north of Montréal (l’Esterel), in Charlevoix north of Quebec City (Manoir Richelieu); the Muskoka Region north of Toronto (Deerhurst, Lake Joseph Resort), and at Chateau Montebello between Ottawa and Montréal.

Each resort is unique, and offers an incredible value. You’ll be surprised at just how affordable a Canadian resort vacation can be!

Q: 8) What’s the best time to visit Canada?



A: It all depends on what you like to do. For city stays and golfing, mid-May to mid-October are ideal. While the summer time is extremely popular, with a variety of festivals and events planned throughout, the cities are generally more crowded and prices are higher. Low season city stays (November through March or April) are usually an extraordinary value - with no crowds! Skiing in Canada usually begins in late November and lasts until early April.