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Canada - Travel Essentials

 

It’s hard to sum up a country as vast and varied as Canada. Stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific and deep into the Arctic, it’s a land of big skies, open spaces, and welcoming people.

From the cool, modern energy of Toronto and Montréal’s French flair to the laid-back charm of Vancouver and the rugged coastlines of the Maritimes, every corner of Canada feels different — yet unmistakably Canadian.

Few places can match the natural beauty on offer here. Think turquoise lakes framed by snow-capped peaks in the Rockies, the raw power of Niagara Falls, or the quiet magic of the northern lights glowing over the Yukon. In between are endless forests, wild islands, and pristine national parks filled with wildlife.

But Canada isn’t just about the great outdoors. Its cities are creative, diverse, and full of character — whether you’re wandering through cafés and galleries, sampling fresh Pacific salmon on the coast, or diving into Montréal’s famous food scene.

This is a country that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and take it all in. Whether you’re skiing in Whistler, exploring Québec’s cobbled streets, or road-tripping through the Maritimes, Canada’s mix of nature, culture, and charm will stay with you long after you’ve gone.

What should I expect from the Rocky Mountaineer?

When you travel on the iconic Rocky Mountaineer, you’ll have the chance to choose from several stunning routes through the Canadian Rockies, such as Vancouver to Banff, Lake Louise, or Jasper.

You can also select the level of service that best suits you – GoldLeaf Service gives you a bi-level glass-dome carriage with a dining room downstairs, gourmet meals, and an outdoor viewing platform, while SilverLeaf Service offers a single-level glass-dome coach with delicious meals served at your seat and amazing panoramic views. No matter which you choose, all your meals, drinks, and exceptional onboard service are included.

As the train only runs during the day, so you don’t miss a moment of scenery, you’ll have an overnight stay in Kamloops mid-way. Your hotel in Kamloops is allocated locally and, while it may not be at the same luxury level as some of the hotels on your trip, it’s comfortable and of a good standard to ensure you’re well rested for the next day’s journey.

Convenient transfers between the train and your Kamloops hotel, as well as to and from the train at your hotels at either end of the train journey, are included, to ensure your trip is streamlined.

Are these Private Tours or a Group Tours?

All of our Canada tours are private, tailor-made itineraries, designed around your preferences. We can adjust every element to suit your interests, pace, and travel style. This particular Canada trip includes flights, accommodation, and car rental (where applicable). Many of our Canada tours also includes excursions.

What are the Departure Dates?

Since this is a private trip, there are no set departure dates. Let us know your preferred dates of travel, and we’ll find the best flights to fit your itinerary.

We can advise on the best times to visit each region of Canada — from the snowy peaks of the Rockies to the coastal beauty of British Columbia or the vibrant cities of the east. We’ll also guide you on when to avoid peak tourist seasons or when travel conditions may be affected by weather.

Which Airlines do you use?

We work with all major airlines flying to Canada. Depending on your departure city, we typically suggest carriers such as Air Canada, British Airways, or WestJet.

If you have a preferred airline or route, just let us know. We can also arrange flights from any regional UK airport. There are direct flights from the UK to several Canadian hubs, including Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, and Montreal.

Which Hotels do you use?

We carefully select hotels based on location, style, and quality, but we are guided by your preferences. We specialise in boutique hotels, charming historic properties, and smaller luxury hotels where available.

In major cities like Vancouver, Toronto, or Montreal, hotel rooms can sometimes be compact and modern in style. If you prefer larger rooms, heritage properties, or a specific ambience, we’ll tailor our recommendations accordingly. In more rural areas such as the Rockies or Vancouver Island, we can suggest beautiful lodges, cabins, and nature resorts that bring you closer to Canada’s stunning landscapes.

Please note that many hotels in Canada charge resort or facility fees covering amenities such as Wi-Fi, fitness centres, or pools. We try to include these in our pricing wherever possible, but as policies vary, we’ll confirm details at the time of booking.

Car Rental & Driving in Canada

Many of our itineraries include car rental, allowing you to explore Canada’s vast landscapes at your own pace, but there are a few practical points to note:

  • One-way fees: Some itineraries involve picking up a car in one city and dropping it off in another. One-way fees can apply, depending on the rental company and locations. We will try to include these where possible.

  • Parking: City hotels may charge for parking, and rates can vary. We will guide you on likely costs.

  • Insurance & Navigation: We can advise on the best insurance coverage and suggest GPS or app-based navigation for ease of travel.

  • Driver Requirements: A valid driver’s licence is required.

Ask us for more details so you can plan your trip with confidence.

Isn’t Canada expensive?

Canada offers a wide range of experiences to suit different budgets — from luxury lodges and scenic rail journeys to comfortable mid-range hotels and affordable self-drive adventures. We plan your trip to balance value and comfort, helping you get the most out of your accommodation, transport, and excursions.

Many of our itineraries include car rental, which gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. There’s plenty to see and do without spending much, from scenic drives and hiking trails to charming small towns and local markets.

Entrance fees to national parks, museums, or attractions are generally reasonable but vary by location. Private guided trips can be more expensive, but there are also plenty of small-group options available, which allow you to enjoy expert guidance while keeping costs manageable. We can mix and match this to suit your itinerary. Dining in Canada can suit every budget, from cosy diners and casual cafés to gourmet restaurants and farm-to-table eateries.

Electricity in Canada

Electricity in Canada operates on 110–120 volts with a frequency of 60 Hz, the same as in the USA. Plugs typically have two flat parallel pins or two flat pins with a round grounding pin (Type A and Type B).

If you’re travelling from the UK or Europe, you’ll need a plug adapter for Canadian sockets and possibly a voltage converter for devices that aren’t dual-voltage. Most modern electronics, such as phone chargers, laptops, and cameras, are already dual-voltage, so an adapter alone is usually sufficient.

Do I need a Visa or Travel Authorisation?

UK citizens can usually travel to Canada with an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). You must apply online before travelling and receive approval prior to departure. If you are not a UK passport holder or plan to stay longer than 90 days, please let us know, as you may require a different Visa or Travel Authorisation.

What’s Included in the Price?

Your quotation will clearly show what’s included — such as flights, accommodation, car hire, and any pre-booked experiences. Local taxes, resort fees, and gratuities are often not included and vary by state or hotel. We’ll outline these clearly so there are no surprises. A deposit is usually required to confirm your booking, with the balance due closer to departure. We’ll provide full payment details when you receive your quotation.

How much Luggage can I take?

Airline baggage allowances vary, especially on domestic Canadian flights. We’ll make sure your internal flights match your international ticket where possible, or highlight any restrictions in advance.

Will my Mobile Phone work in Canada?

Most UK mobile networks offer Canada roaming, but charges can vary. Alternatively, you can purchase a local eSIM or SIM card for better data rates. We can advise on the best options before you travel.

How do I manage Jet Lag and Time Zones?

Canada spans several time zones, so travel times can vary. We design our itineraries to allow rest time after arrival and avoid overly long driving days. Our team will also share practical tips for managing jet lag and staying refreshed.

Do you offer Eco-Friendly Travel Options?

Yes — we can recommend electric or hybrid car hire, eco-lodges, and experiences that support local communities and conservation efforts. If sustainability is important to you, we’ll tailor your itinerary accordingly.

Can you arrange Tours and Activities?

Absolutely. We can pre-book a variety of activities, from city tours and food experiences to guided hikes, national park passes, and scenic train journeys. Many experiences can also be added once you're in Canada.

Do I need Travel Insurance?

Comprehensive travel insurance is essential when visiting Canada. We strongly recommend a policy that covers medical treatment, cancellations, and car rental coverage.

Do you cater for Solo Travellers & Families?

Yes! Canada is very welcoming to solo travellers, and as an English-speaking country, it’s easy to get around. Major cities are simple to navigate, and beyond the cities, national parks, scenic drives, ranch stays, and small-group tours offer safe and rewarding ways to explore.

For families, Canada is ideal — with its wide-open spaces, wildlife encounters, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly attractions. Whether it’s spotting bears in the Rockies, kayaking on turquoise lakes, or exploring cities like Vancouver or Montreal, there’s something for everyone.

How does the Booking Process work?

Once we’ve discussed your preferences, we’ll design a custom itinerary for your review. After approval, we’ll confirm all arrangements and send detailed travel documents before departure. We also provide 24-hour local assistance throughout your trip, along with contact details for our Canadian partners should you need help while travelling.

How long have you been organising holidays to Canada?

We’ve been creating tailor-made Canada holidays for close to 10 years. Our team has extensive experience in the travel industry, organising trips to the Canada and beyond, ensuring every journey is seamless, flexible, and memorable.

Why Travel with Jasmine Holidays?

We pride ourselves on personal service, expert knowledge, and attention to detail. Every Canada itinerary is crafted by a specialist who’s experienced the destination first-hand. We’re also ATOL-protected, giving you full financial peace of mind when booking your trip.