Businesses may be operating with reduced capacity, contact them directly before planning travel. SEE DETAILS
CLOSEIn emergency situations, contact the local police, ambulance service, fire department, and other emergency services by dialing 911, a free call from any telephone. The news media and many tourism businesses cooperate with the RCMP to communicate urgent messages to visitors. If you see or hear your name, phone the number given.
Visitors from outside the province should clarify coverage provided by their personal insurance carriers and may wish to obtain additional health insurance before coming to BC.
Canada Border Services Agency has current information for visitors to British Columbia about required travel documents, restricted goods, travelling with children and pets, and other resources.
For information about entering or re-entering the United States, visit the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Credit cards (mainly Visa and MasterCard) are accepted by most businesses, but it’s a good idea to carry some Canadian cash. ATMs, located in banks and retail areas, dispense Canadian currency. A bank or currency exchange outlet can change your funds to Canadian dollars. Banks are generally open Monday to Friday, with some open on weekends.
A federal goods and services tax (GST) of 5% and a provincial sales tax (PST) of 7% are applicable to most purchased goods and services.
A tip of 15-20% at bars and restaurants is customary. Tips are also given to tour guides, taxi drivers, and for spa treatments and haircuts. Porters at airports, railway stations, and hotels generally expect $1-2 per item of luggage.
If you are going to drive in BC, here are some rules and regulations you should know:
Consult the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure’s list of frequently asked questions for other driving regulations.
BC strives to be an inclusive destination for people of all abilities. Cities like Vancouver, Victoria, and Whistler have significant infrastructure in place: Transportation companies offer accessible services, many parks and trails are accessible, and there are several adaptive sports programs.
BC offers a wide variety of nature trails and outdoor sport options for people of all mobility levels. Find your perfect adventure below.
Planning to explore BC’s beaches and coastal trails along the Pacific Rim? Ensure your next adventure is accident free with these tips for staying safe near and in our beautiful waters.
Learn more about these tips and the three T’s of coastal adventure at coastsmart.ca
Canada uses the metric system. The following conversions may be useful:
Banks, government offices, and some stores will be closed on statutory holidays, or on the following Monday if the holiday falls on a weekend:
Visitors to British Columbia can arrive by air, road, rail, or ferry.
Visit TodayFive-star hotels, quaint B&Bs, rustic campgrounds, and everything in between.
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