Canada Travel Insurance
With major landmarks including Niagara Falls and the Rocky Mountains and amazing cities to discover such as Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa and more, it’s obvious why Canada broke their record of 20.8 million tourists in 2017.
The West coast is steeped in some of nature's most beautiful wonders, where temperatures hang at a luxurious 23c with a light breeze straight off of the Pacific. Or visit the East coast with its vibrant culture of live music, summer festivals and historic architecture complimented by the incredible wildlife this side of the country has to offer.
Whichever part of Canada you're planning on visiting, having travel insurance which covers you for essentials such as medical expenses, cancellation, personal possessions and legal expenses is paramount.
Canada is one of the most expensive places in the world to receive medical care, so should you require medical treatment, travel insurance could quickly become the most important thing in your luggage.
Why choose Alpha?
We are travel insurance specialists, and believe that our policies can offer the best cover to suit your needs at a budget-friendly price. Furthermore, you don’t have to worry about looking through hundreds of options – our policies all offer the same great levels of cover, all you have to do is choose the excess you would like to pay in the event of a claim. Please see just some of the benefits that we offer:
- 24/7 Emergency Medical Helpline
- Cover for 100's of sports and activities free of charge (with the option to extend and include many more);
- Discounts for couples and families;
- 14 day cooling off period;
- Cover includes cancellation, emergency medical expenses, personal belongings, cash and travel documents and much more;
- Optional Gadget Extension.
- Access to our Free Customer Area!
What to do in Canada
There is so much to see and do in Canada you will be spoilt for choice! Below are a few of our favourites and we hope you enjoy them as much as we have.
Niagara Falls
- One of the highlights and I’m sure on many of our bucket lists.
- There are boat tours ranging from £20-£100, as well as observation deck views from the Skylon Tower that costs roughly £10 per adult.
- Most tours only run between April-October due to the weather, so bear that in mind.
Capilano Suspension Bridge
- This is for those daredevils out there who aren’t fazed by heights!
- Unobstructed views of the canyon make for amazing Insta snaps.
- Climb through the treetops and explore the rainforest as well as the stunning cliff walk all for £28 per adult.
Ice Explorer Glacier Tour
- Another Insta worthy trip, for £62 per adult.
- 3-hour ride on the ‘Ice Explorer’ taking in the stunning surroundings with a glacier walk to top things off.
- Tours run between 10am-5pm and depart every 15-30 mins.
*Prices and information correct as at August 2018
Advice for travelling to Canada
Medical
Although you don’t need any vaccinations to get into the country, it may be worth discussing the below with your doctor:
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Rabies
- Influenza
They have had bouts of both Measles and Mumps in western Canada, so we would advise ensuring you are up to date with these before travelling also. For more information please click here.
Entry Requirements
eTA
Visitors to Canada are now expected to get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) in order to enter.
The only times this is exempt is if you have a valid Canadian visa or permanent resident card. If you have dual nationality you will be expected to use your Canadian passport.
It costs $7 per eTA and you can apply for yours here.
Travelling with children
If only one parent is travelling, ensure that you have a letter of consent from the non-travelling parent to ensure smooth sailing through immigration.
Useful Info:
| Currency | Canadian Dollar – notes range from $5-$100 and coins include $1 and $2.
$1 are referred to as ‘loonies’ and $2 are referred to as ‘toonies’
Click here for the current exchange rate. |
| Capital City | Ottawa |
| Population | Over 36,000,000 |
| Emergency Info | For emergencies, call 911 |
| Tipping Protocol | This depends on the service:
Cabs – Generally between 10-20%
Doorman - $2 if he hails you a cab
Bellman – Up to $5 per bag
Chambermaid – Up to $5 a day or a lump amount at the end of your trip
Valet – $5-$10 when picking up the car
Bar/Wait Staff – Not as strict as in the US, between 10-20% is acceptable. |
| Drinking Age | Each province sets its own age. However, the legal age is 19 years old unless you are in Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec where it is 18 years old. |
| Weather | Hurricanes in coastal areas are more likely between July – November whereas Tornados are more likely between May – September in southern Canada.
During the winter months, highways can be closed due to snowfall and/or avalanches. Ensure you check before leaving your accommodation |
| Seasons | Spring – March 20th - June 20th
Summer – June 21st – September 21st
Autumn/Fall – September 22nd – December 20th
Winter – December 21st – March 19th |
| Languages spoken | English and French |
| Plug Type | 110-120 V - 60Hz |
| Driving Side | Right Hand side |
| Local Laws/Customs | Local laws can vary depending on the province or territory you are visiting.
For more information on customs regulations in Canada visit the website of the Canadian Border Services Agency |
