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Explore Toronto

Toronto's one of the most accessible cities in the world. Chances are you're not more than two hours from our creative city. And if you are, it's well worth the trip!

» Getting Here
» What to See and Do
» Calendar of Events or List of Events During August (PDF)
» Maps & Guides
» Transportation
» Green City


General Information

Time Zone
Toronto is in the Eastern Standard Time Zone. Toronto time is the same as Detroit, New York, and Florida.

Weather
Weather is reported in the metric measure of Celsius temperature. August temperatures in Toronto range from 13 to -27 °C (which is equal to 55-81 °F).

Measurements
Canada uses the Metric system for weights and measures. There are 0.6215 miles in a kilometer. (Examples: 10 miles is approximately 16 kilometers and 15 miles is approximately 24 kilometers.) If you choose to drive your car from the U.S. into Canada, please be aware the speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour instead of miles per hour.


Passport Information

Travel Document Requirements for Entry into Canada
Canada has one of the most advanced customs processes in the world, providing visitors with security and ease of travel. Visitors must have valid travel documents to enter Canada to provide proof of their citizenship. Document requirements vary depending from which country you are traveling.

U.S. residents: American visitors traveling by air are required to have a valid passport to re-enter the United States.

Exception: U.S. citizens entering Canada by car or rail who plan to return to the U.S. prior to June 1, 2009 do not need to show a passport, but a government-issued ID with photo, such as a driver’s license, and proof of citizenship is required. As of June 1 2009, all individuals will be required to hold a valid passport to enter/re-enter the United States.

For more information on travel security and border procedures, visit the U.S. Department of State website.

When you enter Canada, an officer from Citizenship and Immigration Canada will ask you a few short questions. To make this go quickly, keep your passport and ASAE and the Center 2009 Annual Meeting information with you and not in your luggage.


Communcations

Languages Spoken
There are two official Canadian languages – English and French. In addition to these, the top 5 languages spoken in Toronto are Italian, Chinese, Cantonese, Punjabi and Tagalog.

Mobile Phone Service
Please contact your service provider directly to inquire if service is available and/or the applicable rates.


Currency and Taxes

Money Matters
Toronto offers visitors world-class products without world-class prices. Be sure to pack an extra bag for the loot you'll want to bring back home.

For a currency converter please click here.

*Remember to call your bank and credit card companies and let them know you will be traveling to Canada. Some banks and credit card companies may freeze access to accounts if irregular activity is occurring– they may think your card has been stolen if they are not told ahead of time that you plan on traveling outside of your country.

Tipping
If you’re happy with the service you receive, a 15-20% tip on the pre-tax bill is a standard expression of appreciation when dining out in the city. Note that some restaurants automatically add this gratuity when serving large groups, so be sure to check your bill.

Tips are also expected for services such as haircuts, shoe shines and taxi rides. 15-20% is standard in these situations as well.

Taxes
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a 5% tax that is charged on most goods and services sold or provided in Canada. And as we’re part of the Province of Ontario, purchases made in Toronto are also subject to the 8% Provincial Sales Tax (PST).


Health

Safety
Toronto is one of the safest cities in the world. We have earned our reputation as a clean, peaceful city thanks in large part to the professionalism and dedication of the city’s emergency service agencies and personnel.

Toronto’s universal emergency number is 911. Use it for police, fire and medical emergencies. Toronto Police Services has over 5,000 uniformed officers on patrol in the city and can be reached at 416-808-2222.

Medication
If you are entering Canada with prescription drugs and syringes used for medical reasons, be sure to keep the medication in its original and labeled container to avoid problems. Syringes should be accompanied by a medical certificate that shows they are for medical use and should be declared to Canadian Customs officials. It may also be wise to carry with you an extra prescription from your doctor in the event your medication is lost and to attest to your need to take such prescriptions. Don't forget an extra pair of contact lenses or prescription glasses. Carry the generic name of prescription medicines, in case a local pharmacist is unfamiliar with the brand name.

Health Insurance
Most health insurance policies cover you if you get sick away from home – but check, particularly if you're insured by an HMO. With the exception of certain HMOs and Medicare/Medicaid, your medical insurance should cover medical treatment – even hospital care abroad. However, most out-of-country hospitals make you pay your bills up front and send you a refund after you've returned home and filed the necessary paperwork.

What To Do if You Get Sick Away From Home
Any foreign consulate can provide a list of area doctors. If you get sick, consider asking your hotel concierge to recommend a local doctor – even his or her own. You can also try the emergency room at a local hospital. Many hospitals also have walk-in clinics for emergency cases that are not life-threatening; you may not get immediate attention, but you won't pay the high price of an emergency-room visit.