ESSENTIALS - Canadian Rockies: Including Banff and Jasper National Parks - page 553

about individual lodging is from local tourist information centers or from listings in the
Alberta Accommodation Guide or British Columbia Approved Accommodation brochure.
Bed-and-Breakfast Associations and Agencies
The Western Canada Bed and Breakfast Innkeepers Guild ( www.bcsbestbnbs.com )
represents bed-and-breakfasts across the region. The association produces an informative
brochure with simple descriptions and a color photo of each property, but it doesn't
take bookings. Without the color photos, Jasper Home Accommodation Association
( www.stayinjasper.com ) offers the same kind of literature and an online availability calen-
dar.
Canada-West Accommodations (604/990-6730 or 800/561-3223, www.b-b.com )
does take bookings, along with providing recommendations based on your likes and dis-
likes.
OTHER LODGING OPTIONS
Seasonal Accommodations
As roads through the mountains were improved in the 1920s, the number of tourists arriv-
ing by automobile increased greatly. To cater to this new breed of traveler, many bungalow
camps were constructed along the highways. Some remain today (mostly in Jasper Nation-
al Park), offering a high standard of accommodation away from the hustle and bustle of
the towns. Generally, they consist of freestanding, self-contained units and are open for the
summer only.
GETTING THE BEST LODGING DEAL
It can't be stressed enough: The Internet is an invaluable tool for searching out the
best accommodation deals.
Rates quoted in this topic are for a standard double room throughout the high
season, which generally extends late June-mid-September. Almost all accommoda-
tions are less expensive outside of these busy months. As a general rule of thumb,
the more expensive the property, the steeper the discount. For example (and at dif-
ferent ends of the spectrum), the cost of a dorm bed at the Banff Alpine Centre drops
$5 per night on September 15, while in downtown Banff, already reasonably priced