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About Canada |
Canada is a great vacation destination. And Whistler, nestled in the Coastal Mountains of British Columbia, is the perfect Canadian resort for winter or summer fun.
First trip to Canada? Here are some handy hints to make your Canadian vacation a smooth one.
To make your entry into Canada worry free, foreign visitors coming to Canada should check the Canadian Customs regulations. Regulations vary from country to country. All visitors entering B.C must have a passport or travel documents in their possession. U.S. visitors should have proof of citizenship.
American money is accepted in much of Whistler. However, visitors are encouraged to change at least some of their money into Canadian funds at a bank or other financial institution in order to get the most favourable exchange rate. Traveller's cheques and major U.S. credit cards are accepted in most areas. If you hear the terms "loonie" and "toonie", they refer to the Canadian $1 and $2 coins respectively.
A goods and services tax of 7% (GST) applies on virtually every transaction in Canada except for the purchase of basic groceries. In addition, in British Columbia, consumers pay a 7% provincial sales tax (PST), which does not apply to food, ferries, or accommodations. A tax of 10%, is levied on accommodations and alcoholic beverages sold in bars and restaurants.
More tax information
Legal drinking age varies in each province in Canada. In British Columbia the legal drinking age is 19. You must be prepared to show valid ID (passport from outside of North America, photo driver's licence from the U.S.) to enter a bar or purchase alcohol. Most establishments licensed to sell alcohol can do so until 2 a.m., which means you can have a somewhat early night to be ready for the next day's skiing or golfing!
