Tours of Canada- Thomas Cook Tours

Scenery and wildlife

We have tours that touch upon every element of Canada's varied nature. Whether you are exploring the rugged wilderness of the Rocky Mountains, the Eastern coastline or the gorgeous waterways of British Columbia, we always recommend bringing a pair of binoculars as Canada's wildlife is second to none.

Way of life

Canada is extremely safe, easy-going and welcoming. Wherever you are, you can enjoy yourself as much as you would at home. Certainly Britain and Canada have plenty in common - including the Queen as head of state. For more detailed advice, check with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Consular Travel Advice Unit.

Currency, passport, visas and health

While credit cards are generally viewed as the safest option, traveller's cheques in Canadian dollars are widely accepted and are safer than cash, although it's always a good idea to keep some cash to hand for small purchases and tipping.

Cuisine

Cuisine in Canada is varied and multinational, particularly in the big cities. Toronto is famed for its Oriental food, and has a thriving restaurant scene - as does Vancouver, with particularly good health and vegetarian restaurants. In the countryside, food tends to be more simple fare, with an emphasis on wild game in the central regions and fish nearer the coast.

Suitable clothing

What you should bring depends largely on which part of the country you're visiting. In the Rockies, or any mountainous region, at any time of the year you're going to need warmer clothing and a jacket. At the coast and in the lowlands in the summertime, light layers are a good idea. In the wintertime, you'd better be ready to wrap up as snowfall can be heavy and temperatures icy.

Shopping

Shopping is excellent in Canadian cities, particularly in Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver, and the exchange rate is usually well in your favour. In the countryside you can find good arts and crafts, including hand-woven blankets and moccasins.

Tipping

Obviously, tipping is at your discretion, although it is standard practice in Canada. The going rate for waiters is 15% and cab drivers get around 10%

Taxes

Across Canada a 6% Goods and Service Tax (GST) is levied on all purchases - including drinks and meals - and added to the displayed price along with any Provincial Sales Tax (PST). PST varies from 0 to 10%, depending on the province. Where applicable, GST and PST are included on all products and services purchased through Thomas Cook Tours; this means you aren't entitled to any tax refund on items pre-paid from this brochure, as any refunds have already been included in the price.