Border Crossing, Currency, Communication and Top Activities
Looking to give your students an international experience but Europe or Asia isn’t in the cards this year? Don’t forget: Canada offers an accessible and affordable experience for student groups.
Here are some key points to help clear up any misconceptions that you might have about traveling to Canada.
Q: Will everyone need passports? That is too much hassle.
A: U.S. and Canadian citizen children 18 and under traveling with a school, religious group, or other youth group need only present a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship. The birth certificate can be original, photocopy, or certified copy (though we recommend originals to avoid a potential delay.) As for the adults, as long as you are traveling by land you can present a Passport Card or Enhanced Driver’s License (available in border states); these provide a more affordable alternative to Passports. For more information and to keep update on the newest rules and regulations please see https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/western-hemisphere-travel-initiative
Q: We can’t use our mobile phones in Canada; how can we stay in touch?
A: First of all, many newer phones are now considered “World Phones” and are equipped with the technology needed to run on the systems used in Canada and much of the rest of the world. Check with your service provider to see if your phone is compatible and get pricing for their international packages. Most major carriers offer affordable short-term options. If your phone is not equipped there are a variety of popular international texting apps such as Whats App that can help you remain in touch throughout the trip
Q: What will we do about money? How will students pay for things?
A: Contact your bank at least 30 days prior to your trip and to purchase local currency for the extra cash you want during your trip. Credit cards are also a good option for travelers, but it is important to be mindful of foreign transaction fees that may be imposed.
Q: Is it safe to travel internationally?
A: Your student’s safety is our number one priority. That is why we send a tour director on our tours to ensure that you have someone actively looking out for your student’s best interests. We also provide private nighttime security to ensure that chaperones can rest easily knowing that no one will be going in or out of the rooms.
Student Group Friendly Destinations
With its many educational sites, fine arts venues, group friendly hotels and restaurants the possibilities are endless.
Not to miss activities and attractions in Toronto:
- CN Tower*
- Ontario Science Centre*
- Casa Loma Castle*
- Canada Wonderland*
- Eaton Centre (shopping and dining)
- Chinatown
- Multiple Theaters offering Broadway Shows
- Toronto Symphony
- Royal Ontario Museum
- Hockey Hall of Fame
- Ripley’s Aquarium
- Rogers Centre Tours
- City Tours
- Haunted Walking Tours
- Option to add on Niagara Falls excursion
*Ask us about performance opportunities
These are just a few of the great sites to see in Toronto. As a music group, you can also participate in festivals, a music clinic at one of the area colleges and Universities, as well theater workshops. Toronto offers so much to see and do and your group can experience an international destination on a domestic budget.
Written by Educational Tours, Inc.
