MileHacker Logo
Surrey Travel Tips

Surrey Travel Tips

Surrey British Columbia, Canada Travel Guide

Local SIM Cards & Mobile Providers

Canada's major mobile providers Rogers, Bell, and Telus operate sub-brands for budget-friendly prepaid plans (e.g., Fido, Koodo, Virgin Plus, Lucky Mobile, Public Mobile).

Acquiring a SIM/eSIM

  • Prepaid SIM cards are available at YVR, electronics stores (Best Buy, London Drugs), and carrier stores in Surrey malls. Your phone must be unlocked.
  • Many providers Offer eSIM options, purchasable and activatable online before or upon arrival.
  • Consider a Portable WiFi device for multiple devices or extensive data needs.

Internet Access & Postal Services

Wi-Fi is widely available and often free. Hotels, cafes, restaurants, and Surrey Public Library branches often have free Wi-Fi.

Connectivity & Mail

  • Good 4G/LTE coverage across Surrey and Metro Vancouver. 5G networks are expanding.
  • Canada Post offices are in pharmacies (Shoppers Drug Mart, London Drugs) or grocery stores.
  • FedEx, UPS, and DHL operate in Surrey for expedited shipping needs.

Language Barriers & Translation

Canada's the official languages are English and French. The main language spoken is english spoken in Surrey. You are unlikely to encounter a language barrier if you speak English.

Multilingual Environment

  • Due to its a multicultural population, other languages like Punjabi, Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, and Tagalog are heard.
  • Google Translate App assists with quick translations.
  • Phrasebooks for basic phrases in other common languages for cultural participation.

Important Phrases

While English is widely understood, knowing a few common English phrases. Consider Rosetta Stone for language learning.

Polite English Expressions

  • "Hello" (Heh-LOH)
  • "Thank you" (THANK yoo)
  • "Excuse me" (Ex-KYOOZ mee), "Please" (PLEEZ), "Sorry" (often a polite acknowledgement).

Business Hours & Schedules

Typical Operating Hours

  • Shops: Generally 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (smaller shops).
  • Shopping Malls: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM weekdays, shorter weekends.
  • Restaurants: Lunch 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Dinner 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM (variations). Cafes open earlier.
  • Banks: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM weekdays, some Saturday hours. ATMs are widely available.

Holidays & Closures

  • National Holidays: New Year's Day, Good Friday, Victoria Day, Canada Day, Labour Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, Boxing Day.
  • BC Specific Holidays: BC Family Day, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (federal services closed).
  • Seasonal Closures: Smaller attractions or outdoor recreational rentals may have limited hours or close during winter months.
  • Always check individual websites before visiting during off-peak times.

Seasonal Advice

Verify seasonal operating hours for specific attractions, especially during winter.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Canadians are generally known for their politeness and value respect.

Greeting Customs

A handshake is common for formal greetings, with looking someone straight in the eye. A simple "hello" or "hi" suffices for informal interactions. Politeness, using "please," "thank you," and "excuse me" is common.

Appropriate Attire

Dress is generally casual for most activities. Smart casual is appropriate for mid-range and upscale restaurants. Modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) is recommended when visiting places of worship.

Dining & Tipping

Tipping 15-20% for good service in restaurants and bars is customary. Wait to be seated in most sit-down restaurants. Use a fork and knife. Sharing plates is common in many ethnic restaurants.

Photography Permissions

Taking photos in public spaces is generally permissible. Always get consent before taking pictures of people, notably for children. Respect a "no."

Restrictions

  • Some private establishments, museums, or cultural sites may have restrictions (e.g., no flash). Observe visible signs.
  • Be mindful of people's privacy, especially in residential areas or during intimate moments.
  • During festivals or ceremonies, be discreet with photography.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Avoid discussing highly sensitive political topics unless in a respectful dialogue with someone you are aware of well. Canadians generally value personal space.

Social Norms

  • Littering is frowned upon and may result in fines.
  • Be aware of non-verbal cues and respect individual comfort levels.
  • Respect differences in opinion without aggression.

Gender Considerations & LGBTQ+ Information

A Progressive Country

  • Canada upholds human rights and equality.
  • LGBTQ+ rights are legally protected.
  • Surrey and British Columbia are generally welcoming and inclusive.

Equality & Acceptance

  • Gender equality is a core value.
  • Public displays of affection are generally accepted for all couples.
  • All individuals can expect respect and fair treatment.

Local Engagement

Engage politely and observe local customs. Canadians appreciate respectful interactions.

Accessibility Information

Canada has accessibility standards, and efforts are made to ensure public spaces and services are inclusive for all travelers.

Infrastructure for Mobility Challenges

Newer buildings and public infrastructure (SkyTrain stations, main shopping malls, civic facilities) are generally accessible. They feature ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Older Areas

  • Older buildings or smaller, independent shops may have limited accessibility (e.g., stairs, narrow doorways).
  • Most urban areas in Surrey have sidewalks with curb cuts.
  • Accessible parking places are available at most public and business venues.

Accessible Attractions & Transportation

TransLink (SkyTrain, buses) is largely accessible. All SkyTrain stations have elevators, and all buses are low-floor with ramps.

Accessible Venues

  • Major attractions: Museum of Surrey and Surrey Arts Centre are fully accessible.
  • Many larger parks (Bear Creek, Green Timbers, Tynehead) have paved or well-maintained, flat trails.
  • Accessible Transport/Ride-Shares: Request wheelchair-accessible vehicles when booking.

Services for Visual or Hearing Impairments

Some public spaces and transportation hubs may tactile paving for visual impairments and audio announcements for both seen and hearing impairments.

Support & Resources

  • Service animals are permitted in public places and on public transportation.
  • Audio announcements are standard on TransLink services.
  • Some information may be available in Braille at locations.

Resources & Organizations

TransLink's website features detailed accessibility information. Access BC is a general resource for travel with accessibility needs in British Columbia. Search online for this organization.

Further Information

  • Contact individual attractions or accommodations directly for their specific accessibility features and services.
  • If you have specific accessibility needs, plan your itinerary with these considerations.
  • Verify accessibility with venues or transportation providers in advance.

Important Accessibility Planning

Advance Verification

  • Contact specific venues contact... directly to confirm their current accessibility status.
  • Confirm specific services like accessible taxis or guided tours well before your visit.
  • Review maps and public transit information for routes with elevators or ramps.

Special Needs

  • Inform about any specific health or mobility needs to your accommodation provider.
  • Plan for luggage assistance if traveling with heavy or multiple bags.
  • Don't hesitate to ask for help from staff or locals when needed.

Airport Services with Priority Pass & Compensair

Lounge Access for Frequent Travelers

  • Priority Pass independent airport lounge access globally.
  • This assistance provides a comfortable waiting experience.
  • Available at many airports worldwide, enhancing travel comfort.

Flight Delay Compensation

  • Compensair assists with compensation for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.
  • This service helps travelers claim their due compensation.

Support & Planning

Verify accessibility with venues or transportation providers in advance for specific needs. Resources for accessible travel information are available online.

Additional Accessibility Information

Detailed overview of accessible facilities and services for a smooth visit to Surrey.

Public Transit Accessibility TransLink

TransLink's public transportation network is designed for accessibility.

Features

  • All SkyTrain stations are equipped with elevators for platform access.
  • All buses are low-floor and feature ramps for easy boarding.
  • Compass Card readers are accessible.

Accessible Recreational Parks

Many of Surrey's parks feature accessible pathways.

Park Highlights

  • Bear Creek Park: Paved paths, accessible amenities.
  • Green Timbers Urban Forest: Well-maintained, flat trails.
  • Tynehead Regional Park: Extensive network of accessible trails.

Accessible Accommodation

Many hotels in Surrey cater to travelers with specific accessibility needs.

Features to Look For

  • Roll-in showers, grab bars, and wider doorways.
  • Visual fire alarms and doorbells for hearing impairments.
  • Accessible a place to park and common areas.

Emergency Services Accessibility

Emergency services in Surrey are equipped to handle diverse needs.

Contact & Support

  • 911: A single emergency number for all services for police, fire, and ambulance. Operators can connect to translation services.
  • Hospitals have accessible entrances and facilities.
  • TTY services are available for emergency calls.

Accessible Experiences & Tours

Museum of Surrey

Fully accessible, interactive exhibits cater to a wide audience.

Visit Website

Surrey Arts Centre

Accessible performance venues and art exhibition spaces. Check for specific event accommodations.

Explore Arts & Culture

Accessible Guided Tours

Some local tour operators may offer accessible options; inquire directly when booking.

Find Tours

Final Accessibility Advice

Always make sure of the current accessibility status of any venue or service with the provider directly, as conditions may change.

Next Up: Sustainable Travel in Surrey. Eco-Friendly, Responsible Tourism, Conservation

Surrey Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture - MileHacker