Things You Should Know Before You Go!
Clothing
Layering. It’s the key to wearing the right clothing at Big White, no matter what the weather brings. You can always take off a layer of clothing and stash it in a bag if you’re too warm. Gloves, knitted hats – that’s Canada's famous “toque” – a heavy coat, and warm, waterproof footwear are definitely needed in winter and of course you will need your ski/snowboard gear as well. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also a must all year-round- due to the higher UV exposure from the sun at alpine altitudes. A small knapsack/rucksack makes a great way to tote a day's necessities.
Units of Measure
Canada uses the metric system to calculate temperatures in Celsius, speed limits and road distances in kilometers, and gas is sold by the litre (currently about $1.40 CDN/litre as of June, 2008).
Time
Our clocks are set to Pacific Standard Time, and Daylight Saving Time comes into effect as we set our clocks ahead one hour on the second Sunday in March and fall back an hour on the first Sunday in November. This schedule coincides with the United States implementation of Daylight Saving Time.
Currency Exchange
For quick cash, you’ll find automated teller machines (ATMs) around the village. Major credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Electrical Connections
The electrical current in Canada is 110 volts, and plugs are two flat parallel prongs – or two flat and one round prong.
Mail and Postage
Letters and postcards can be mailed at Central Mountain Check-In. Postage and delivery times will vary according to international destinations.
Recipient’s Name
c/o BIG WHITE SKI RESORT
5315 Big White Road
Kelowna, BC V1P 1P3
Tips and Gratuities
Gratuities are usually not included on bills in restaurants and bars, and are completely at your personal discretion. Satisfied customers usually leave a gratuity of 15% of the total bill.
Sales Tax
There is a 7% Provincial Sales Tax and a 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) charged on the sale of all products and services in British Columbia.
Customs and Immigration
If you arrive by plane you will clear Canadian Customs and Immigration at the airport and are required to declare your country of origin, your Canadian destination and length of stay, and what articles you are bringing into the country. A valid passport is necessary.
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