Communication: Whitehorse

Local SIM Cards & Providers

Canada has three major providers: Bell, Telus, and Rogers. All have good coverage within Whitehorse.

SIM Card Details

Purchase: Retail stores, electronics retailers, or some grocery stores.
Cost: Prepaid SIM cards start around CAD $30-$50.
Coverage: Good in Whitehorse and major highways; limited in remote areas.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is widely available in Whitehorse for visitors.

Wi-Fi Access Points

Hotels: Most hotels have free Wi-Fi for guests.
Cafes/Restaurants: Many include free Wi-Fi for customers.
Public Wi-Fi: Available at the Whitehorse Visitor Information Centre.

Postal Services

Canada Post offices are available in Whitehorse.

Sending Mail

Send postcards or parcels.
Locations: Canada Post offices in the city.
International shipping is available.

Language Barriers & Translation

English is mainly spoken in Whitehorse, so language barriers are unlikely for English speakers.

Language & Tools

Official Languages: English and French in Canada.
Main Language: English in Whitehorse.
Translation Tools: Google Translate app is useful.

Important Phrases French

Greetings

Hello / Hi: Bonjour (bon-ZHOOR) / Salut (sah-LOO)
Thank you: Merci (mehr-SEE)
Please: S'il vous plaît (seel voo PLEH)
Excuse me: Excusez-moi (ex-koo-zay MWAH)

Questions

Yes / No: Oui (wee) / Non (nohn)
Do you speak English?: Parlez-vous anglais? (par-lay voo ahn-GLEH?)
Where is...?: Où est...? (oo eh?)
How much is this?: C'est combien? (seh kohm-BYEN?)

Power Bank Tip

Carry a power bank for your devices. Remote areas mean less access to charging points, and cold weather drains batteries rapidly.

Business Hours & Schedules

Retail Stores

Generally open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Mon-Sat); 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM (Sun).

Grocery Stores

Typically open from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM daily.

Restaurants

Hours vary widely, breakfast spots open early, while dinner establishments serve until late evening.

Banking Hours & ATMs

Major Canadian banks have branches in Whitehorse. ATMs are widely available.

Banking Details

Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Mon-Fri), closed weekends.
ATMs: At banks, grocery stores, convenience stores.
Banks: RBC, CIBC, TD, BMO, and Scotiabank.

Seasonal Closures

Many tourism-dependent businesses have shorter hours or close completely mid-October to mid-May.

Planning Around Seasons

Verify Hours: Always check operating hours in advance.
Off-Season: Be ready for reduced services during shoulder seasons.
Contact Directly: Call attractions or consult websites.

Public Holidays Affecting Services

Statutory Holidays

New Year's Day (January 1)
Good Friday (Friday before Easter)
Victoria Day (Monday preceding May 25)
Canada Day (July 1)

More Holidays

Discovery Day (3rd Monday in August)
Labour Day (1st Monday in September)
Thanksgiving Day (2nd Monday in October)
Christmas Day & Boxing Day (December 25-26)

Planning Note

During public holidays, many businesses close or operate with reduced hours. Banks, post offices, and government services typically close.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greeting Customs

A handshake is common for formal introductions. Politeness is highly valued.

Interacting Politely

Handshake for introductions.
Use 'please,' 'thank you,' 'excuse me'.
'Hello,' 'Hi,' and 'How are you?' are typical.

Appropriate Attire

Dress is generally casual in Whitehorse. Prioritize comfort and weather suitability.

Clothing Style

Casual dress is common.
Dress for the weather conditions.
Modesty is not a significant concern.

Dining & Tipping Practices

In most restaurants, wait for a host or staff member to seat you.

Dining Courtesy

Wait for seating guidance.
Tipping is customary (see Section 2.3).
Follow staff instructions.

Photography Permissions

Generally, taking photos in public places is acceptable. Respect privacy.

Photo Etiquette

Public photos are acceptable.
Respect signs prohibiting photography.
Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Interactions

Be open to learning, listen to locals.
Respect personal space.
Do not litter or disrespect environments.

Cultural Awareness

Learn about First Nations history.
Seek interpretive programs.
Avoid intrusive photography.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Inclusivity

Canada is progressive and inclusive.
Whitehorse is a diverse, welcoming community.
LGBTQ+ rights protected by law.

Atmosphere

Accepting atmosphere for all.
Friendly community.
Enjoy a welcoming visit.

Accessibility Contact

Contact individual attractions or the Whitehorse Visitor Information Centre for specific accessibility details and confirmation.

Accessibility Information

Whitehorse works to be accessible, though older infrastructure might pose challenges.

Mobility Challenges

Newer buildings comply with accessibility standards. Older buildings may have limitations.

Infrastructure Points

Ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms in newer places.
Older shops may have limited accessibility.
Winter conditions (snow, ice) create challenges.

Accessible Attractions

Several Whitehorse attractions offer accessibility options.

Accessible Spots

Yukon Wildlife Preserve: Accessible pathways, bus tours.
MacBride Museum: Accessible with ramps and elevators.
Takhini Hot Springs: Accessible change rooms and pool access.

Accessible Transportation

Whitehorse Transit buses are accessible for travelers.

Getting Around

Whitehorse Transit: Buses are accessible.
Yukon Arts Centre: A modern, accessible venue.
Check with specific tour operators for their accessibility.

Visual/Hearing Impairments

Specific services tailored for tourists with visual or hearing impairments can be limited.

Support Information

Yukon Council of Canadians with Disabilities may offer resources.
Inquire directly with attractions for accommodations.
Always confirm suitability for your needs.

Accessibility Resources

Yukon Council

Provides general accessibility information and support.

Access Yukon

A local organization advocating for accessibility initiatives.

Info Centre

The Whitehorse Visitor Information Centre helps with specific details.

Pre-Visit Call

Always contact individual attractions or the Whitehorse Visitor Information Centre directly for specific accessibility details and to confirm suitability.

Communication