Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Maps
Most tourist offices distribute free provincial road maps.
For extended hikes or multiday backcountry treks, it's a good idea to carry a topograph-
ic map. The best are the series of 1:50,000 scale maps published by the government's
Centre for Topographic Information
(
www.nrcan.gc.ca
)
. These are sold by around 900
map dealers around the country; check the website for vendors.
You can also download and print maps from
GeoBase
(
www.geobase.ca
)
.
Money
All prices quoted throughout this guide are in Canadian dollars ($), unless stated other-
wise.
Canadian coins come in 5¢ (nickel), 10¢ (dime), 25¢ (quarter), $1 (loonie) and $2 (toon-
ie or twoonie) denominations. The gold-colored loonie features the loon, a common Cana-
dian water bird, while the two-toned toonie is decorated with a polar bear.
Paper currency comes in $5 (blue), $10 (purple), $20 (green) and $50 (red) denomina-
tions. The $100 (brown) and larger bills are less common and tough to change.
The Canadian dollar has seen fluctuations during the past decade, though since 2007 it
has tracked quite closely to the US dollar.
For changing money in the larger cities, currency exchange offices may offer better
rates than banks.
ATMs
Many grocery and convenience stores, airports, and bus, train and ferry stations have
ATMs. Most are linked to international networks, the most common being Cirrus, Plus,
Star and Maestro.
Most ATMs also spit out cash if you use a major credit card. This method tends to be
more expensive because, in addition to a service fee, you'll be charged interest immedi-
ately (in other words, there's no interest-free period as there is with purchases). For exact
fees, check with your bank or credit card company.
Visitors heading to Canada's more remote regions (such as in Newfoundland) won't find
an abundance of ATMs, so it is wise to cash up beforehand.
Scotiabank, common throughout Canada, is part of the Global ATM Alliance. If your
home bank is a member, fees may be less if you withdraw from Scotiabank ATMs.
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