Airport Shuttle Transportation in Banff, Alberta

Airport transportation is a breeze in Banff National Park.

A vacation to Alberta’s Banff National Park is a dream come true. To enjoy your stay at our park, reliable transportation and airport shuttle service is key. When coming to Banff, you can take advantage of dependable Calgary to Banff airport shuttle transportation as well as riding in style in Banff limousines from Blue Sky Limos.

Transportation and Sightseeing Tours

Sundog Transportation and Tours is the official Banff National Park airport transportation for Rockies.com. They provide shuttle service for the entire Canmore Kananaskis region. With office locations at Calgary International Airport and Edmonton Airport, Sundog provides complete Calgary, Banff, Jasper and Edmonton transportation and sightseeing tours.

More than just an airport shuttle service, Sundog provides Canadian sightseeing excursions, coach touring and conference services. Our staff of vacation planners specialize in making your time in the Canadian Rockies unforgettable.

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 By Michele Kadison

Staff Writer

Rockies.com

Snow lasts year round in the Canadian Rockies and it is best to always be prepared for cold weather.

CANADIAN ROCKIES (Rockies.com) – When visiting Canada in the winter, it is always best to take heed of basic driving safety rules.  Your editors at rockies.com know all too well the potential hazards of driving when the conditions are less than favorable.  Here is some information and advice for making your winter vacation travel safe and secure.

Canadian Roads During Snowfall

Busy highways and major urban roads in Canada are always given top priority for snow-clearing, with plows, sanders and graders all out in force before tending to the smaller streets.  In some cities, residential roadways are often minimally cleared, which causes a layer of packed snow to build up until it melts in warmer weather.

When the snowfall is light, sanding trucks are sent to spread sand or gravel along with salt over the roadways.  The salt will melt the snow and ice in addition to preventing the sand from freezing.  Sand on the roadway means traction for vehicles.

When snowfall is heavy, sanding trucks distribute salt and gravel or rock chips, with the gravel adding extra traction where it’s needed.

Make sure you stay far back from sanding trucks when you see their amber or red roof lights flashing.  This means they are in the process of sanding the road and if your vehicle is too close your windshield could be damaged by flying rock chips.  Stay back at least 15 feet (5 meters).

When snowfall is extremely heavy, snowplows and snow graders will be on the roads to scrape the snow off the road.  The blade on a snowplow is often wider than the truck, so pay attention when passing a snowplow or grader, being sure to leave extra room on the side of your vehicle.

When you see a white strip of snow and ice dividing lanes of traffic on a cleared road, you are in the presence of a “devil’s strip.”  Take care when you cross the strip as it is easy to lose control of your vehicle on this precarious area that lives up to its name.  Eventually the devil’s strip will be removed, but usually not until the last of the roads are cleared.

Often there is limited visibility in winter weather, caused by heavy snowfall, snow blowing across the road, or white-out conditions where bright but cloudy skies make it difficult to determine what is sky and what is snowy ground. In this condition, try to avoid driving altogether.  If you are caught in a poor visibility situation, try to keep the tail of the vehicle in front of you in view until you find an area where you can safely get off the road.  Drive slowly and carefully.

“Black ice” is another condition that is perilously dangerous.  This is when transparent ice covers part of the road, which is often the cause of a vehicle spinning out of control.  Black ice is rarely visible, but is usually present after a rainy winter day or evening where the water turns to ice overnight when temperatures dip to freezing.  Pay special attention to ramps, overpasses, and bridge decks which cool faster than other types of surfaces.

Preparing for your Winter Drive

The town of Banff nestled between snowy mountain peaks.

Winter brings skies that can be overcast and dull, or super sunny days that can be blinding as the light reflects off the white snow all around you.  Make sure you have a pair of Polaroid or other top quality sunglasses to filter out the glare for safe driving.  Because sunrise and sunset takes longer in higher latitudes, you may find yourself driving directly into the rising or setting sun for up to a half an hour or more.  A good pair of sunglasses can make the difference between being blinded by the glare or enjoying the benefits of a glorious day.

Warm driving gloves should also be at the top of your list.  After a night in freezing temperatures, your steering wheel is bound to be cold and it often takes up to 20 minutes for it to warm up once your vehicle’s heater is activated.  Good gloves will prevent frostbite when you touch a freezing cold door handle or while you clear your vehicle of snow and ice.

Make sure you have a good snow brush with an ice scraper at the opposite end.  You can buy a brush and scraper at any service station in Canada.  If for some reason you are missing this essential tool, brush off snow with the sleeve of your coat and use a credit card to scrape the windows.  Make sure you remove snow and ice from all windows as well as your side mirrors.  Take excess snow off your vehicle’s front bumper and roof to prevent blowing snow from hindering your visibility once you start driving.

Take some time before driving away from your parking spot in winter months.  Once you begin heating up the vehicle, your windows will fog over as they go from cold to warm temperatures.  Set your heater to the defog setting with the fan turned up high.  Direct your vents to the windows and watch them slowly clear to give you the visibility you need.  Wait for all the windows to clear before you take off.  Remember, you can be ticketed in Canada for driving without adequate visibility.

If you are renting a vehicle, make sure the windshield fluid reservoir is full.  Put windshield washer antifreeze into your own vehicle and keep a spare jug in the trunk.  Antifreeze should be used full strength, without adding water.

Safe Winter Driving

Warm up in a comfortable lodge after driving long distances in the winter.

The first thing to do before setting out is to check your local weather forecast and road report.  The forecast should let you know if the weather is about to change and the road report will inform you of current road conditions.  Listen to a local radio station or go online to get your information.  Check with Radio-Locator for a listing of Canadian radio stations.

Drive slowly!  Most Canadians drive 20 to 30 km/hr below the posted speed limit in wintry conditions.  Accelerate slowly and plan to stop at a point sooner than you would normally stop to allow for sliding forward if the road is slippery.  Tap your breaks gently to see how slick the road is – if you don’t feel the loss of traction, tap once again to make sure that you are indeed on firm ground.  Often in extremely icy conditions, even the lightest touch to the brake will cause skidding.  Control your speed by shifting to a lower gear rather than pressing the brake pedal.  Tap your brakes in a firm rhythm to stop quickly in an emergency situation.

Practice driving in an empty parking lot covered with snow where you can brake and turn on the slippery surface at varying speeds.  Try to make your vehicle skid so that you can practice recovering when you accidentally turn too fast or brake too hard.  This will build your confidence, which is essential when driving in Canadian winter conditions.

Vehicle Safety Features

Ever since 1989, all new vehicles sold in Canada come with daytime running lights.  This feature automatically turns on headlights when the engine is running.  The headlights operate on a lower setting than the full nighttime wattage, but enough so that vehicles are visible at all times on the road.  Often there are low light conditions during the day, with dawn and dusk lasting longer than areas that are not in such northerly latitudes.  All rental vehicles in Canada will have daytime running lights.  If your vehicle does not have them, turn your headlights on.  In some Canadian provinces, you are required by law to have your lights on at all times.

When your daytime running lights are on, your taillights are off.  Once you enter conditions such as rain, fog, and blowing snow, you must turn on your headlights to also get the benefit of visibility from the rear.

Anti-lock (ABS) brakes are found on most vehicles and are an ideal feature for safe winter driving.  When the ABS is activated, you will feel a vibration in the brake pedal.

Contrary to popular belief, four wheel drive vehicles are not always the safest vehicles to drive in winter conditions.  Most 4WD vehicles are trucks and SUVs, which are known to have poor traction over the rear wheels when not in 4WD mode.  Since it is not a good idea to always drive in 4WD, you are better off putting sandbags over the rear axles for extra traction.  The safer vehicle choice for winter driving is a front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle.  No matter what kind of vehicle you drive, however, you still must follow all safety precautions.

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Typical Weather in the Canadian Rockies

By Michele Kadison

Staff Writer

Rockies.com

Weather

Weather patterns change quickly in the mountains, but all weather is stunning in the Canadian Rockies.

CANADIAN ROCKIES (Rockies.com) – The weather in the Canadian Rockies is always changing, be it from valley to valley or hour to hour.  Temperatures vary greatly from day to night and often predictions can be wrong from one day to the next.  The best thing to do is dress in layers that allow you to respond to the changing conditions.  Always bring a spare jacket in summer, even if it seems impossibly hot.  You will be surprised at how cool it can get when you’re up high in the mountains.

Though the weather is mostly unpredictable, there are some basic statistics for the Banff region that apply to Lake Louise and Jasper as well as other areas throughout the Rockies.

July

Average daily high:                  73F, 22C
Average daily low:                    43F, 6C
Highest high (in 70 yrs)          4F, 34C
Lowest low (in 79 yrs)            28F, -2C

October

Average daily high:                    48F, 8C
Average daily low:                    29F, -1C
Highest high (in 70 yrs)          79F, 26C
Lowest low (in 79 yrs)             -7F, -21C

January

Average daily high:                   22F, -5C
Average daily low:                     4F, -15C
Highest high (in 70 yrs)           54F, 12C
Lowest low (in 79 yrs)            -60F, -51C

April

Average daily high:                   48F, 8C
Average daily low:                    25F, -3C
Highest high (in 70 yrs)          78F, 25C
Lowest low (in 79 yrs)            -17F, -27C

Best Time to Go

Misty mornings give way to beautiful sunny afternoons in the Canadian Rockies.

If it’s hiking and beautiful scenery you are looking for, plan your vacation travel between June and September.  During this time the mountain lakes have thawed and turned a breathtakingly deep turquoise.

Busy season in Banff, Lake Louse, and Jasper is July and August.  As busy as it gets, it is always easy to get away from fellow visitors due to each park’s ample supply of big nature.  If you are looking for a supremely tranquil visit, go in June or September when the crowds thin.

September is a gorgeous time of year to visit the Canadian Rockies.  With the leaves changing to their brilliant hues, it is a pleasure to view the aspen trees around Banff and the larches around Lake Louise.  The autumn comes a little later in Jasper due to its lower elevation.  There you will find the colors at their best in the beginning of October.

October is the month where mountain side roads begin to shut down for the winter.  Though the weather is mostly pleasant, blizzards are known to occur during the month, so come prepared.  You can still get to most of the scenic landmarks in the area until Canadian Thanksgiving, which is celebrated on the second Monday of October (Columbus Day in the U.S.).  The resort areas will be quiet, service will be more attentive, and if you don’t mind moody weather, you may find this to be the best time to enjoy the surrounding landmarks.  By the middle of October, however, most things have closed.

November is the quietest month in the mountains as summer resort travel is over and winter resort travel has not yet started.

December through April, and sometimes into early May is the time when downhill skiers flock to the Canadian Rockies.  From February to April, ski season is in high swing.  In Alberta, Family Day falls on the third Monday in February, making that particular weekend quite busy.  Banff is busy as well, due to the two-day teacher’s convention that is normally scheduled around that time.  Kids are out of school and many Calgary families take the opportunity to go skiing.

May is a transitional month where snow storms can change to summery weather on a dime.  The mountain lakes begin thawing at the end of the month, but still do not have the turquoise patina that you will find in June.

Daylight Hours in the Rockies

The long days of summer average between 14 and 16 hours of daylight.  In the autumn there are on average 10 hours of daylight, and in the winter, just under eight hours.  Once March comes around, the light increases to 12 hours a day.  Summer light is ideal for getting in the most sightseeing possible and autumn allows for some of the best photo ops at dawn and dusk.  Animals are often more active at these times, so besides taking pictures of the dazzling scenery, make sure you keep your eyes open for the wildlife that surrounds you.

For more information on Canadian Rockies accommodations: Click here!

How to Get From Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies

By Michele Kadison

Staff Writer

Rockies.com

There is an outstanding array of activites to do in the Canadian Rockies.

VANCOUVER (Rockies.com) – Although the Canadian Rockies are far from Vancouver, this city is a popular entry and exit point for visitors from all over the world.  Here are some ideas about how to get to the Rockies once you have landed in Vancouver.

By Car

The best option for traveling from Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies is to rent a car, especially during the summer and autumn months.  When driving during this time of the year, you will not need to rent a 4×4 vehicle, which is more expensive.  The roads are paved and perfectly fine for conventional transport.

During the winter months it is not advisable to drive from Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies.  This means from November to the end of April you are better off flying from Vancouver to Calgary or Edmonton and then going on from there.  Make sure you consult weather conditions before you attempt a driving excursion through the mountains as the area is prone to severe and changing conditions during the winter months.

Guided tours are available for your vehicle in the form of a GyPSy Guide, which is a small unit that configures with GPS technology, easily plugging into your car stereo.  The guide automatically gives you information on directions, history, geology, as well as stories about the area you are going through.  With over 4,000 points of interest between Vancouver and the Canadian Rockies, this device is a great traveling companion.

Note:  If you pick up a car in Vancouver and drop it off in another city, you will most likely pay a one-way drop-off fee, which will add to the cost of renting the vehicle.  Make sure you inquire beforehand and then get vehicle rental terms in writing regarding for that company.  Ask if your contract includes unlimited kilometers and if you have to pay more for a second driver.

By Bus

Getting to the National Parks in the Canadian Rockies is an easy trip from Vancouver.

Greyhound offers bus service from Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies.  Check for their year-round schedules.

Train

You have two options when traveling from Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies.  One is to take VIA Rail from Vancouver to Kamloops overnight, and then on to Jasper in the Rockies.  From Jasper you can continue on to Edmonton, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, and Toronto.

Your second option is Rocky Mountaineer, a more expensive ride that takes you via the Kicking Horse Route with an overnight in Kamloops and then on to Banff and then Calgary.  You can also go via the Yellowhead Route, spending the night in Kamloops and then on to Jasper.  If you go the Fraser Discovery Route, you will ride from Whistler to Jasper with an overnight stop in Quesnel.

There are two classes of passengers on the Rocky Mountaineer:  Gold Leaf passengers who can take hot meals in the dining car and enjoy the glass domed car for views of the mountains; and Red Leaf passengers who are served cold meals in their seats.

The Rocky Mountaineer runs from April through October with a few journeys scheduled during the month of December.  The train travels during daylight hours only, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery along the way.

Note:  Trains do not stop at scenic points along the way, nor do they visit points along the Icefields Parkway, a beautiful scenic route connecting Jasper and Lake Louise.  Because of this, you may decide to rent a car for the flexibility of taking side trips.  Another option is to take a train to Jasper or Banff and then rent a vehicle from there to take in the sights.

Guided Coach Tours

There are several companies that offer coach tours in and around the Canadian Rockies.  Some tours transport passengers from Vancouver to Jasper via the Rocky Mountaineer, with a transfer to coaches for sightseeing.  Other companies rely solely on coaches for tours.

Note:  Be sure to enquire about what sites a specific tour visits.  Some visit more areas than others.  A comprehensive tour will include visits to Maligne Canyon, Peyto Lake, and Moraine Lake.

Sundog Tours is the official guided coach tour provider for Rockies.com.

Moose Travel Network

This service allows you to hop on and off buses as you like, which is great for taking detours to scenic areas that are off the main roadways.  Many young vacationers choose this service, staying in hostels as they hop off to enjoy specific towns.  Moose Travel Network also offers various activities within its service, such as whitewater rafting.

Recreational Vehicles

See bears, big horned sheep and many other native wildlife on your trip to the Canadian Rockies.

If you wish to take your Canadian vacation via motor home or camper, you will most likely be staying in campgrounds along the way.  If you are coming from overseas, be advised that renting an RV in Canada can be more expensive than staying in hotels.  On top of the rental fee, there is the high cost of gasoline as well as campground fees.  If you are not accustomed to operating an RV (hook-ups, sewage dumping, and the like), you may find this option is more stressful than you thought.

Note:  For information on using a Recreational Vehicle,  read Traveling in Western Canada, Inside Canada: RVing the Trans-Canada Highway, and the Open Roads Forum where you will get useful insight into whether this mode of transport is for you.

By Air

The best way to travel from Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies during the winter months is by air.  Fly to Calgary or Edmonton and then take the road to Banff, Lake Louise, or Jasper.  Be sure to check local weather conditions as they are subject to change and can be extremely hazardous for drivers.   With avalanches, rock slides and blizzards, driving can be stressful from November through April.

The months of October and May are known as transitional months where the weather can be beautiful or nasty.  It is always a risk to drive at this time, so calculate your options carefully.

During the summer and autumn (June through September), it is actually best to drive from Vancouver to Banff or Jasper.  Because there is no direct service to either of these cities, you have to fly into Calgary or Edmonton and then take the road anyway.  After calculating airport check-in and then driving time to the mountains once you arrive in Calgary or Edmonton, plus all of the amazing sites you will have missed during your flight, you may want to take the drive from Vancouver at a leisurely pace, enjoying the scenic routes along the way.

For more information on Canadian Rockies accommodations: Click here!

When visiting Canada, don't miss stunning wilderness scenery in the Canadian Rockies.

By Michele Kadison

Staff Writer

Rockies.com

CANADIAN ROCKIES (Rockies.com) – Depending on how long you intend to visit the Canadian Rockies and its national parks, you will need a daily or annual pass.  A day pass is considered valid until 4:00 PM the following day, no matter what the time of purchase on your day of entry.  An annual pass is valid in all 28 of Canada’s national parks and this is definitely the way to go if you plan to spend more than a week on your vacation travel in any of these magnificent parks.

If you are a group of two to seven people traveling in a single vehicle, you will pay C$17.80 for a day pass and C$123.80 for an annual pass.  If you are a member of the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA), or the American Automobile Association (AAA) you can receive a discount.  The annual pass will cost C$116.90. You can pay in cash, or use any major national credit card to purchase your entry fee.

You can order a national park pass over the phone before you leave for your vacation holiday.  The pass will be mailed to your home address by Parks Canada.

403-292-4401 between 8AM and 4PM (North American Mountain Time Zone), Monday through Friday.

You can also purchase a national park pass from Parks Canada’s office in Calgary. 8^th Avenue SW, Room 552, 635.

Gorgeous wildflowers contrast against dramatic mountain back drops in the Canadian Rockies.

Passes are available throughout Alberta via:

Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC)

Alberta Motor Association (AMA)

If you are visiting Banff National Park for one day during high season (July and August) you can purchase your national park pass from the Husky gasoline station at Dead Man’s Flats.  When driving west from Calgary, Dead Man’s Flats comes just before the town of Canmore.

Once you cross the border from one national park to another, you will not have to pay or show your pass again.  Once you have your pass you can use a drive-through lane, which is also used by drivers who are not stopping in the parks.  If you are on the Trans Canada Highway route (Hwy #1) via Banff and Lake Louise or on the paved section of the Yellowhead Highway (Hwy #16) via Jasper you do not have to pay as long as you keep your vehicle on the paved section of road.  If you pull off the highway to take a photograph, fill the tank or to have a meal, you are officially stopping and will need a pass.

If you are traveling on the Icefields Parkway (Hwy #93) between Lake Louise and Jasper, you will need a national park pass, even if you are not going to stop along the way.

Note:  Entrance gates to the popular areas of the Canadian national parks are very easy to see as they are comprised of several kiosks that look like toll booths.  The entry gates at lesser known points can be more subtle, often consisting of a small hut.

For more information regarding rates for seniors and children as well as fishing licenses and campground fees, contact Parks Canada – List of Fees.

For more information on Canadian Rockies Accommodations: Click here!

Towering mountains, crystal clear waters, the Canadian Rockies have it all!

By Michele Kadison

Staff Writer

Rockies.com

CANADIAN ROCKIES (Rockies.com) – Crossing the Canadian border is usually a very simple process.  Still, in these days of travel uncertainty, it is best to be sure about what is expected, including appropriate documentation.

Documentation

Although many customs officers will accept just your driver’s license, it is best to carry as much documentation as possible when traveling from one country to the other.

If you are a United States citizen, here are the basic rules:

• Flying between the United States and Canada: valid passport.
• Driving or sailing between the United States and Canada: either a valid passport or a government-issued photo ID and proof of citizenship.  (Birth certificate or certificate of naturalization.  Social Security or Voter Registration cards are not valid.  For children under 18, a passport, birth certificate, citizenship card, permanent resident card, or Certificate of Indian Status.

If you arriving from other countries you need a valid passport whether you are flying or sailing to Canada.

If you are a Canadian citizen, here are the basic rules:

• Flying between Canada and the United States: valid passport
• Driving or sailing between Canada and the United States: either a valid passport or a government issued photo ID (such as driver’s license) and proof of citizenship (Canadian birth certificate or citizenship card).

If you are traveling to or from other countries you need a valid passport, except for Mexico.

If you are a citizen of Greenland, St. Pierre, Miquelon you may enter Canada by land or sea with proof of citizenship and identity other than a passport, unless you are entering from a third country in which case you need a passport.

Citizens of Other Countries require a valid passport to enter Canada.

Note:  Visitors from some countries may also require a Temporary Resident Visa, which can be applied for at a visa office in your country.  Other documentation may be required, such as a letter of invitation from a Canadian resident.

For more information go to the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website or consult the website of the Canadian Embassy, Consulate or High Commission in your own country.

General Information

Interviews with Border Officers

Don't miss a Canadian sunrise.

Carrying the correct documentation does not always guarantee admission into Canada.  At times visitors will be interviewed by a Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer to determine admissibility into the country.  The interviews are normally short.  It is best if you have your documentation close at hand as you approach the border.

Some questions to expect:

• What country are you a citizen of?
• Where do you live?
• What is the purpose of your visit?
• How long will you be staying?
• Are you bringing anything to leave, such as gifts?
• Are you bringing in any firearms, tobacco or alcohol?
• Do you have any criminal convictions?

If you are bringing children, they will be asked for their proof of identity.

To avoid delay, make sure your answers are simple and straightforward.  Remove sunglasses and look the agent in the eye when responding.  If there is any suspicion, you will be asked to report to the main customs building where you will need to show identity papers.  Your vehicle will also be searched, all of which can be time consuming.

Traveling with Children

If you are traveling alone with a child, border service officials may require a letter of permission from the second parent or require documentation that you are the sole guardian of the child.  If a child is traveling with someone other than a guardian, border authorities will need to see a letter of permission from both parents or guardians of the child.  The letter should be notarized if possible.

Travelers with Criminal Convictions

If you have a criminal conviction, including an impaired driving conviction, entrance permission will be at the discretion of the border officer.  You may be pulled in for an inspection, in which case officials will look into the matter to determine your eligibility to enter Canada.  The more documentation and information you provide, the better your chances of entering the country.  Court documents are ideal.  DUI or DWI crimes are considered serious crimes in Canada, but the officers will let you in if all of your information is verifiable.

Contact a Canadian embassy or Immigration Canada for more information.

Regarding Firearms

Canadian law regarding firearms is very different than in the United States.  If you are thinking of bringing a firearm into Canada, be sure to familiarize yourself with the law.  Possession of certain firearms in Canada is illegal.  These prohibited weapons will be seized at the border.  Other firearms are legal, but will be subject to specific regulations regarding their transportation and storage.

Check with the Canadian Firearms Centre’s fact sheet:  Firearm Users Visiting Canada.

For more information on Canadian Rockies Accommodations: Click here!

Manners in the Canadian Rockies

By Michele Kadison

Staff Writer

Rockies.com

Beautiful Lake Louise is one of the major attractions in the Canadian Rockies.

CANADIAN ROCKIES (Rockies.com) – Travel etiquette implies that you appreciate and understand the cultural differences in the country you are visiting. Accepting those differences can make all the difference in having a wonderful vacation.  Every country has its particular customs, and when you get them right you are not only acknowledged as a gracious guest, but you also enhance a fertile cultural exchange.   Here are some tips on etiquette, Canadian Rockies style.

Tipping

The custom is 15% before tax or 20% if the service was exceptional.  Most restaurants in Canada do not include gratuity in the bill, although sometimes for large groups a 15% charge will appear.  A tip is easy to calculate in Ontario along with provinces with a provincial sales tax (PST) by adding the GST (6%) and PST (8%) together and rounding the total off to make an even amount.  When in Alberta, which has a different PST, remember that 5% is half of 10%, which means that if you total bill comes to $80.00, add 10% ($8) and half of $8 to come to the 15% total of a $12.00 tip.

Tipping in Hotels

It is customary to tip valet service.  It is not essential that you give your valet a tip each time you get out of your vehicle, but make sure that your ultimate gratuity reflects your appreciation for the service.  Always tip the person who brings your baggage to your room.  And then, at the end of your trip, leave a thank you note with a tip for your room attendant.  The hotel’s concierge may also be worthy of a gratuity, especially if he or she has helped you get theatre tickets, restaurant reservations, or the like.

Amenities

A 10% minimum tip is customary for services such as taxi rides, hairdressing, manicures and any type of aesthetic treatment.

Tip Jars

In some eateries where there is counter service, such as coffee shops and ice cream parlors, you will see tip jars.  It is your choice if you wish to feed the jar.  If the service was good and you liked the place, you may want to put something in to reward the wait staff.

It is always your choice

Though it is common and considered good manners to tip in restaurants and for amenities, it is always your choice.  Wait staff is not paid highly in Canada, so your tip will definitely supplement your server’s income.  Most of the time bad food and slow service are not your server’s fault.  However if your server is rude or inattentive, withholding a tip as well as having a word with the manager will help the establishment improve their relationship with customers.

Common Courtesy

Jasper is a hot spot for Canadian Rockies attractions.

There is nowhere in the world where common courtesy doesn’t go a long way.  This is a perfect way to reap the benefits of the Golden Rule: as you care for others, so will they care for you.  Polite requests for attention or service, along with a smile, is always the way to success.

Language

Canada is a multicultural land where many different languages are spoken.  In Toronto alone, newspapers and periodicals cater to over 70 idioms.  Where the Canadian Rockies native is accustomed to speaking with people who do not have English as a first language, visitors may be daunted by accents that are unfamiliar.  Learn to be patient and you will find that communication is not as difficult as it sometime can seem.

With French as a very predominant language in Canada, especially in the province of Quebec, it is a great idea to learn a few helpful phrases before you arrive.  Once someone realizes that you do not speak the language, most likely they will switch to English, but your effort will be noted and appreciated.  What a wonderful way to spread good will.

Language sensitivities

Using the word “Indian” as in American Indian is considered offensive in Canada.  Canadians use the terms First Nations, Aboriginal peoples, and Inuit, rather than Eskimo.

Behavior

Wildlife abounds in the Canadian Rockies.

With their natural tendency to be polite, Canadians readily use the words “please” and “thank you.” Canadians are warm and helpful, so don’t hesitate to ask for directions or help as they are always ready to provide assistance.

As an extremely tolerant society, Canada is open, friendly and understated.  Boasting and ostentation can put off even the most tactful Canadian, as they tend to be more reserved than their American neighbors.

Francophones (French speaking people) often use expansive gestures and may touch you softly during a conversation to make a point.  Don’t let this throw you.  They are a naturally exuberant people, with a little bit of Latin flavor running through their blood.

Smoking

Most Canadian communities have restrictions on smoking; with bars, restaurants and other public places designated as smoke-free zones.  The jurisdiction is municipal, so the rules can vary depending on the city or town that you visit.

Forming a Line

It is customary in Canada for people to line up (queue) when paying for items in stores, buying tickets to the movies and boarding public transportation.  Be patient as Canadians are wary of people who try to push ahead of their turn in line.  When standing in line for automated bank machines, stand a few feet behind the person in front of you.

Being a Guest in a Canadian Home

In most Canadian homes, guests are expected to remove their shoes.  If you are unsure if your host requires this, just ask.

When at the table, ask for what you need, rather than grabbing it.  (“Please pass the salt!”)

Business Etiquette

In business situations, a handshake is used when making introductions.  Men will usually wait for a woman to offer her hand before shaking.

Canadian businesspeople are open and cordial.  Responding in kind will go a long way.

Driving

On major highways, the left lane is used for faster moving vehicles as well as passing.  Drivers in the right lane are expected to move one lane to the left if there is another vehicle entering the expressway on the right.

Pedestrians

Wait at intersection crossings for the light to change to green, even if there is no oncoming traffic.  Avoid jay-walking.  If you bump into someone on the sidewalk, a simple apology is the way to go.

Learn about the Country

Take some time before you take your Canadian trip to learn a bit about the history and geography of the country.  There are ten provinces (like states) and three territories, with climate, terrain and language varying as you go from one to the other.

Money

Canadian bills come in different colors and are clearly marked, making them easy to use.  Canadian coins are magnetic and come in the same sizes as American change, except for the $1 and $2 dollar coins, which are called loonies and toonies.

Note:  American coins will not work in Canadian machines.

For more information on Canadian Rockies accommodations: Click here!

Traveling to and within the Canadian Rockies

By Michele Kadison

Staff Writer

Rockies.com

Calgary to Banff

There are plenty of options for travel in the Canadian Rockies.

CANADIAN ROCKIES (Rockies.com) – Calgary International Airport is located 75 miles (120 km) from the town of Banff, and is the closest airport in the area.  Modern and spacious, the airport handles international air travel with daily non-stop flights.

Once you have arrived at the airport, it is easy to rent a car, which will provide you with the flexibility you need to enjoy your travels.  Driving from the Calgary Airport to Banff takes approximately two very scenic hours, so you can enjoy yourself once you have cleared immigration and customs.  Plan on taking the drive during the daylight hours so that you don’t miss the sensational mountain views.

Once on the road to Banff, you will be traversing the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy #1).  If you decide not to rent a car, you can take a shuttle service from the airport to Banff.  This is not recommended if you plan on summer travel where visiting the many canyons, lakes and waterfalls is simplified by having your own car.  But if you are traveling to Banff just to ski, the shuttle buses are perfectly suited for getting you to the hotels near the slopes.

Note:  If you have jet lag or land in the evening or at night, plan to stay over in Calgary and continue on to Banff in the morning.  When staying in Calgary, the best area to find a hotel is in the northwest quadrant.

Make sure you read about driving regulations in Canada before you set out.

Other forms of transportation

Sedan Service:  If you prefer a luxury vehicle with a hired driver, this service is available from the airport.

Train: Take the Rocky Mountaineer train across the Kicking Horse Route from Vancouver to Calgary, with a stop in Banff.  You can also take the Rocky Mountaineer’s Yellowhead Route, which connects Vancouver to Jasper.  Fraser Discovery Route connects Whistler and Jasper, and Via Rail has a westbound connection for Toronto, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, and Edmonton to Jasper.  From Jasper you can rent a car or catch a bus to Banff.

Bus: The Greyhound bus line offers scheduled service from downtown Calgary to Banff.  This is an hour and forty-five minute ride once you reach downtown Calgary from Calgary International Airport.

Jasper to Banff

Arrive in the best Canadian Rockies hot spots by bus, plane or train.

From Jasper you can rent a car for the drive to Banff.  You can also take a bus with Brewster, a company that operates from April 15^th through October 15^th.  If you are arriving in  December, you can take the Mountain Connector shuttle bus, which operates from December through the end of April.

Edmonton International Airport

The best way to get from this airport to Banff is by renting a car.  The drive takes approximately 4 ½ hours at 280 miles (450 km).  The most expedient route is to drive south on Queen Elizabeth II Highway to Calgary.  Then go west on the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy #1) to Banff.  If you want to circumvent the traffic in Calgary, turn west before reaching the city.  One option is to go to the south end of Airdrie, the last town before Calgary.  Once you reach the end of the town, turn west to Big Hill Springs Road.  Once you reach the T-junction with Hwy #22, go south.  Drive through the town of Cochrane until you reach the interchange that connects to the Trans-Canada Highway.  Turn west towards Canmore and continue on to Banff.

Vancouver to Banff

A 10 ½ hour drive, not counting stops, the trip is 530 miles (880km).

Note: See our Rockies.com special section on Vancouver travel for more information.

Seattle to Banff

An 11 ½ hour ride of 600 miles (1,000 km), you will need authorization from your car rental company to take the vehicle across the US-Canadian border.  If you are making a one-way trip by flying into Seattle and flying out of Calgary or Edmonton, the fee to pick up a car rented in the United States and drop it off in Canada can be very expensive.  A better option is to take the Quick Shuttle or Amtrak Train from Seattle to Vancouver and rent a car from there.

Kalispell

When flying to Kalispell, you can rent a car and take a circular tour through Montana’s Glacier National Park and the Canadian Rockies.  Be sure you get the car rental company’s written authorization to take the vehicle across the US-Canada border.  If you don’t want to pay the high drop off cost on a rental made in the US and left in Canada, take the Mountain Perks bus from Kalispell or Whitefish, Montana to Cranbrook, BC or another Canadian town on route.  Once you’re in Canada you can pick up a rental there.

Guided Coach Tours

There are a number of guided coach tours that take you through Banff as you tour the Canadian Rockies.

Flying from Banff back to Vancouver

If you are slightly pressed for time on your return from Banff, the solution is not necessarily to take a flight.  You cannot fly out of Banff, but must drive instead to Calgary and fly out from there.  From Banff to Vancouver takes approximately 5 ½ hours with a two hour drive to the Calgary Airport, the hour it takes to check in for a domestic flight, the 1 ½ hour flight, the 30 minutes to collect your bags, and the half hour to drive to downtown Vancouver.  Driving from Banff to Vancouver will take you double the time, not including stops, but with the advantage of seeing some of the most breathtaking sights imaginable.  If you can drive, it is well worth your time.

But… if you are going to Vancouver from Banff during the winter months, it is best to fly.  Winter road conditions can be treacherous, including the possibility of avalanches, rock slides and blizzards.

For more information on Canadian Rockies accommodations: Click here!