Americas - Canada - Country Information

We are pleased to offer you the very best of this vast country, from touring in the glorious Rocky Mountains of Alberta and British Columbia, to travelling by VIA Rail from coast-to-coast, whale-watching around Vancouver Island or exploring the historic walled city of Quebec and the vibrant cities of Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal. We can also arrange cruises to Alaska, with its awe-inspiring mountain scenery and prolific wildlife.

Key Facts
Full Country Name	Canada
Area	9,976,139 Sq Km
Population	30,532,900
Capital	Ottawa
Time Difference	Vancouver is GMT – 8 (from 7 April to 27 October GMT – 7) Montreal and Toronto are GMT – 5 (from 7 April to 27 October GMT – 4) Calgary and Edmonton are GMT - 7 (from 7 April to 27 October GMT – 6)
Visa	Visa not required
Currency	Dollar (Can)
People	The population consists of either Anglo-Canadian or French-Canadian descendants with 34% of the population of British origin, 26% of French origin and 26% of other European origin. The indigenous AmerIndian and Inuit groups represent only 1.5% of the population.
Language	English and French
Dialling Code	+1
Electricity	110V

Visas:

British passport holders do not require visas for Canada, although passports must be valid for 6 months beyond the intended length of stay. Holders of non-British passports should take particular care, as visa requirements may differ and it is most important that your passport contains the correct visa for your journey.

Health risks:

None

When to Go:

British Colombia and the Rockies are known for their temperate weather. The highest rainfall being in spring and autumn. The departure dates in Newfoundland are planned to take advantage of the short summer period. There is always the possibility of rain, even in the summer months, particularly in the coastal areas. The weather is quite changeable, so be prepared. It is not unusual for people to wear T-shirts and shorts while viewing 15-storey-tall icebergs. In October on our polar bear migration departure along the coast of Hudson Bay, the weather is variable, with temperatures capable of moving from 0° C to minus 30° C within the same week, sometimes even within the same day. Wind is a major force of nature in this region. Not only is the wind strong but there is no shelter from it. Daylight is limited to between 8 and 10 hours a day at this time of the year. Evenings are very dark, which does, however, improve the possibilities of seeing the Northern Lights. Passengers should therefore be prepared for very cold and windy conditions. Spring and autumn are good times to visit Quebec (we have planned a departure to coincide with the autumn colours). Summer months are hot and humid.