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Toronto Travel Resources

Toronto Travel Resources

Toronto Ontario, Canada Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Preparing for your trip means a good experience. Utilize this timeline to guide your plans, from checking your a passport for arranging all bookings.

Your Pre-Travel Timeline

A structured timeline for a smooth journey.

1

+ Months Before: The Long-Term View

Passport Validity

Check your passport's validity. Make sure it remains valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.

Visa/eTA

Ask for your Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) if your nationality needs it. This could require time.

Research & Itinerary

Start looking at major attractions, neighborhoods, and events. Make a rough plan.

2

Month Before: Mid-Range Tasks

Specific Bookings

Book specific tours, theater tickets, and popular restaurant reservations.

Travel Insurance

Arrange full travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.

Financial Notification

Tell your bank and credit card companies about your trip details to avoid card holds.

3

Week Before: Final Checks

Confirmations

Confirm all reservations (flights, hotels, tours, restaurants).

Packing

Start packing for the weather and your activities.

Documents & Electronics

Make copies (digital and physical) of important documents. Charge all electronics and make sure you have the right power adapters.

Required Advance Bookings and Reservations

Certain reservations are important to make early.

Main Travel Items

  • Flights and Accommodations: These are typically the first items to book.
  • Rental Cars: Book these if you're going to drive outside Toronto.
  • Major Attractions: Book tickets for popular sites like the CN Tower and Ripley's Aquarium.
  • Popular Restaurants: Book for highly sought-after dining experiences.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Researching Your Trip

  • Review This Guide: Apply this travel guide as the main resource.
  • Recent Information: Read recent travel blogs, articles, or news about Forronto for current events.
  • Visuals: Watch videos or documentaries about the town to build excitement and familiarity.
  • Language: Learn basic Canadian English phrases and cultural norms.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Preparing your home means peace of mind.

Security

  • Secure your home (lock doors, windows, set alarms).
  • Stop mail/newspaper delivery or arrange for a trusted person to collect them.
  • Water plants.
  • Arrange pet care.

Utilities

  • Turn off unneeded lights.
  • Turn off unneeded appliances.
  • Adjust thermostat.
  • Check for leaks or drips.

Contacts & Info

  • Leave a copy of your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member.
  • Provide emergency contacts.
  • Set up out-of-office replies.
  • Notify a trusted contact of your itinerary.

Important Tip

Arrange comprehensive travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. Consider World Nomads for travel insurance.

Arrival Checklist

These initial steps upon arrival begin a smooth Toronto adventure.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Customs and Immigration:

    Follow airport signs and steps. Have your passport and eTA/TRV ready.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage:

    Go to the baggage claim area to collect your checked bags.

  • 3
    Locate Airport Transfer:

    Find your pre-arranged airport transfer (UP Express, taxi, ride-share) or public transit options.

Orientation Strategies

  • Accommodation:

    Go to your accommodation to check in or drop off your bags.

  • Local Map:

    Get a local map (physical or digital) to find your way.

  • PRESTO Card:

    Buy a PRESTO card at the airport or a subway station if you plan much public transit use.

Initial Practicalities

Currency Exchange and Initial Purchases

Cash: Get Canadian Dollars (CAD) from an ATM at the airport or change currency at a counter.

Local SIM: Buy a local SIM card if your phone needs it. Grab essential snacks or toiletries.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

Refer to Section 4.1 "Air Travel" for detailed transfer options from Toronto Pearson (YYZ) or Billy Bishop (YTZ) airports to the city center.

Plan your route carefully based on your chosen airport and destination.

General Essentials

Remember to inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans beforehand to avoid any issues.

Have emergency contacts readily available.

Arrival Advice

Upon arrival, consider purchasing a PRESTO card for smooth public transit. It's often more affordable than cash fares.

Departure Preparation

Get ready for your departure easily to avoid last-minute stress.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

  • Purchase in Advance: Buy souvenirs early to avoid a last-minute rush.
  • Baggage Allowance: Check your airline's baggage allowances for weight and size rules.
  • Shipping Services: Ask about shipping services for larger purchases from local shops or major carriers.
  • For efficient packing your bags for your return, explore Eagle Creek.

VAT Refund Procedures if applicable

  • Canada does not have a general VAT/GST (Value Added Tax/Goods and Services Tax) refund program for tourists on goods bought and taken out of the nation.
  • Keep this in mind when making purchases.
  • Retain receipts for your own records or for any potential tax purposes in your home country.
  • Understand local taxes applied to goods and services during your stay.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Knowing when to head to the airport can save you stress.

Airport Arrival Times

  • International Flights:3 hours before
  • U.S. Flights (with pre-clearance):2-3 hours before
  • Domestic Flights:1.5-2 hours before
  • Traffic:Leave extra time, especially during rush hour.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm Details: Confirm your return flight details (time, terminal, gate).
  • Packing: Pack carefully, checking no forbidden items are in your carry-on luggage.
  • Accommodation: Get rid of any garbage or recycling from your lodging.
  • Bills: Settle any unpaid bills.

Departure Reminder

Always check your airline's baggage weight and size rules to avoid unexpected fees. Pack souvenirs carefully.

Allow ample time for airport transfers, considering potential traffic delays, particularly during rush hour.

Toronto Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts