Canada and Alaska

We encourage you to consider what the holiday is likely to cost you at the end of your tour, not the beginning. People usually get what they pay for, so if one product is significantly less than another, try to understand why. It’s unlikely to be generosity but rather things like the quality and location of hotels, plus the number and quality of inclusions such as meals, sightseeing, special events, entrance fees, local guides and tipping. Check which, and how many of these are actually included in the price. All the ‘little extras’ that you have to pay for can add up to a sizeable amount by the end of the holiday.

A brochure will often talk about ‘included sightseeing’; make sure you ask what that means. Do they simply take you to the venue then leave you to queue and pay your own entrance fees, or do they include the entry fees and escort you in ahead of the queue?

The cost of meals can be a significant part of your holiday. Always be clear about which meals are included and which are not. Scenic Tours provides Scenic FreeChoice Dining on selected itineraries where you will often have a choice of several dining options that are all included in the price.

One of the great highlights of any Canada and Alaska holiday is cruising through the famous Inside Passage. Check which ship you will be sailing on and the quality of accommodation you are being offered on board. Scenic Tours provides a choice between two of the world’s leading cruise lines, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises.

Another highlight of your holiday is the rail journey from the Pacific coast to the Canadian Rockies. This is often acclaimed as the most spectacular rail journey in the world, so don’t be disappointed.

Check which train service your tour operator is using and what your seating arrangements will be. Scenic Tours uses the famous Rocky Mountaineer for the two day all daylight trip. Here you are guaranteed an upgrade to the luxurious GoldLeaf service for uninterrupted viewing through the amazing glass dome carriages. On some tours, Scenic guests can rediscover the romance of rail by travelling first class in an overnight sleeper aboard ‘The Canadian’, operated by VIA Rail. During the day you will enjoy exclusive interpretive commentary as you view the amazing Rocky Mountains through their new glass domed carriage.

Make sure you ask about airport transfers with any tour you are booking. Will your tour representative meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel or do you have to make your own way, with or without some sort of voucher? What about at the end of the journey?

Because most holidays to Canada and Alaska involve a variety of transport services; flights, coach, cruising and rail, you should check when you will have a tour director and when you won’t. Scenic Tours are fully escorted from start to finish and we also have our own team in Canada conveniently located at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. They are on hand to assist our guests with everything from local sightseeing to tour arrangements while in Canada.

Please Note: Flights from the West to the East Coast of Canada are not escorted.

Your Canada and Alaska holiday is so varied that the time actually spent in cities is somewhat limited. However, when you are in cities like Vancouver, Victoria or resort towns like Whistler, check to see what activities and excursions are included and what you have to pay extra for. Beware of ‘optional tours’, often these are portrayed as a means of providing flexibility for guests but what do they cost? Has the price been inflated so that the tour operator or tour director can be paid a commission?

What validity do I need on my passport?
All passengers are required to possess a passport valid for 6 months beyond the conclusion of their trip.

What visas do I require?
It is the sole responsibility of each passenger to have necessary visas and to comply with entry, health or other requirements of the countries visited. More advice can also be found at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s website.

Those travelling on an Australian or New Zealand passport currently do not require a visa to enter Canada, although it is your responsibility to contact your travel agent or The Canadian High Commission in Australia to get the necessary and current information and documentation on visa requirements for your nationality.

A US Travel Authority or visa is required for all guests cruising Alaska, or stopping in the US either for an extended stay, or transiting via a US city for onward travel. This formal travel authorisation must be obtained at least 72 hours prior to departure. Please speak with your travel agent or apply via the US Border and Customs website otherwise you will not be able to board a flight, coach or ship into the USA.

Any Guest who presents themselves to the United States Customs & Border Protection (USCBP) and has not previously completed their ESTA online (US Travel Authorisation or Visa) will be turned away and denied boarding their cruise.

Please note: If your nationality (passport) differs from the country in which you reside, please take the time to check carefully with your local consulates concerning visa and passport requirements for your travels. Holidays can be disrupted or have to be altered altogether if the correct documents cannot be supplied at airports or borders, so check very carefully that you have the required papers.

Can Scenic Tours arrange my passport and visas?
Scenic Tours and/or their employees and their agents are not responsible for passport, visa requirements, entry, health or other requirements of the countries visited or for any loss sustained by you for failing to comply with laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited, and will not be liable for any costs or cancellation penalties or inconvenience where travellers do not have a travel authorisation, and are not permitted to travel.

Can Scenic Tours organise my travel insurance?
No, this is the responsibility of the passenger, however your travel agent can do this on your behalf. We strongly advise you to take out travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances, which may arise as defined in the respective proposal forms. It is a good idea to take your travel insurance documents with you.

How much luggage can I bring?
The luggage allowance whilst on tour is one suitcase with a maximum size of 76 x 53 x 28 cms (30 x 21 x 11’’) and weight of 20 kilograms. You may also carry a small backpack or the Scenic Tours issued overnight bag on board the coach for the duration of the tour.

Is porterage included?
Handling and porterage of your luggage (as per the luggage allowance above) is included in your tour.  Additional bags beyond the allowance may be charged at an additional cost of approximately CA$7.50 per day, per bag, paid to the Tour Director, or it may be the responsibility of the passenger to forward the baggage to another destination. 

Should I attach the Scenic Tours luggage label provided prior to departure?
No, please wait until you have claimed your baggage at your destination airport. This will ensure airline companies will not tear off this tag, as it is required to easily identify your baggage for transfer services and hotels.

Are there any luggage restrictions on tour?
The Australian and New Zealand Governments have enhanced security measures to limit the amount of liquids, aerosols, and gels that can be taken through the screening point for people who are flying to and from Australia. Details of these restrictions and requirements can be found on the Australian Department of Infrastructure and Transport’s website or the New Zealand Government’s Aviation Security Service website. For information regarding carry on restrictions for other countries, please contact the relevant government agencies.

Are there any extra airline baggage fees?
Most domestic carriers within the USA and Canada have introduced new baggage fees and charges either for the first piece of luggage and/or additional pieces. Our policy for passengers travelling on our international tours permits one piece of luggage regardless of whether the airlines have any further free luggage allowance.  If you are travelling through on a domestic connection as part of your international ticket, they may allow the on carriage of your luggage to your final destination free of charge, but this is not guaranteed. If a separate domestic USA/Canada flight and/or ticket is necessary on your itinerary, the airline may charge you a baggage fee (approx US$15 to US$25 per bag per person) and this may vary for each airline.

Will my luggage be secure?
We strongly advise that you do not pack anything of value in your check-in luggage and that you check-in ONLY your own suitcases. Do not carry items packed by other people. Never accept packages or articles from anyone unknown to you to carry onboard the aircraft. As a sensible precaution against luggage tampering, including theft, lock your luggage. Information on luggage safety is available from The Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority website.

What happens if my luggage goes missing?
It is highly unlikely for your luggage to be mislaid, however we suggest if travelling as a couple to pack each suitcase with back up clothes and toiletries for each person. We also suggest writing your personal and tour details on a label INSIDE each suitcase (including name, address, telephone number, departure and return flight details). Write only your name and destination address on outside labels.

What clothing should I pack?

• Casual sportswear for daytime that can be mixed/matched/layered 
• Jumper/warm jacket/gloves/hat/scarf for cooler mornings, nights and cruising in Alaska
• Swimwear 
• Comfortable walking shoes with rubber soles for good grip 
• Sunglasses and sun hat 
• Men require one tie and dinner jacket for formal dining nights on cruise
• Women require one or more outfits for evenings and formal dining nights on cruise

Please note: those passengers planning to golf in Banff must pack collared shirts, tailored pants or shorts (no cut-offs) and appropriate footwear. These are mandatory. Jeans or sweat pants are not acceptable on the golf course.

What else do I need to pack?
The following list may be useful when packing for your trip:

• Airline tickets and passport (plus a photocopy and extra passport photos) 
• Travel and travel insurance documentation, and itinerary (make a copy for your emergency contact) 
• Traveller’s cheques/cash/debit or credit card and emergency contact numbers if lost or stolen, plus local currency for first day and a money belt 
• Spare memory card for your digital camera or film in clear plastic containers 
• Only those keys needed on return 
• Personal medication and prescriptions, extra glasses/contacts and prescriptions
• Sunscreen, lip balm and insect repellent 
• Pocket calculator, address book, journal and pens 
• Tissues and anti-bacterial hand wipes or hand sanitiser  
• Raincoat or umbrella 
• Plastic bags for dirty laundry, washing powder and elastic clothesline 
• Travel alarm clock, earplugs and sleep mask 
• Adaptor plugs, mobile phone charger, battery charger 
• Small torch and batteries (there is minimal lighting at remote locations)

Please note: Red Leaf passengers travelling on the Rocky Mountaineer require a small overnight bag that can be packed down into.

Please note: All hotels on tour provide towels, irons, hair dryers, soap and shampoo within the room.

Should I provide Scenic Tours with my health and fitness details prior to travelling?
We will supply a Health and Fitness form in your travel wallet. These forms are designed to provide us with instant information if an emergency should arise. These forms will be returned unopened at the completion of the tour. It is not compulsory to fill out these forms but strongly recommended.

Can I take prescription medication into Canada, Alaska and the USA?
Yes and its advisable to pack an ample supply of any medicine you are taking, copies of prescriptions and the telephone/fax number of your doctor. Because of strict drug laws in some countries, drugs you take on doctor’s orders should be carried in their original container showing the prescription label. Always keep your medication in your hand luggage.

Are there any health risks that I should be aware of?
Viral gastroenteritis is a very common virus that can be found almost anywhere, but its opportunity to spread is greater in contained environments. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. It may also include fever, stomach issues and headache. The symptoms usually start 12 to 48 hours after viral infection and can last from 1 to 10 days. Most people who become sick with viral gastroenteritis recover quickly with no further problems.  However if the illness is more severe, further medical care may be required to treat dehydration. The most effective protection from personal contamination is ensuring strict attention to personal hygiene and in particular, frequent and thorough hand washing with soap and water and refraining from hand-to-mouth contact.

Colds and other viruses can spread quickly in an enclosed area such as a ship. Continue to practice common-sense hygiene and respiratory courtesy. Wash your hands often and cover your coughs and sneezes.  It is recommended that passengers carry an anti-bacterial hand sanitiser, which does not require rinsing with water. Use a sanitiser frequently i.e. after shore excursions, prior to meals and throughout the day.

Motion sickness can be a problem for some people when cruising, flying or travelling on coaches and trains and it is a good idea to take precautionary measures. Drugs for treating motion sickness can be purchased at most pharmacies in Australia, however a side effect can be drowsiness. Alternatives such as ginger tablets and acupressure wristbands are also available and work well for some people.
If you have any questions regarding your health or safety while on tour, please do not hesitate to ask your Tour Director.

What vaccinations do I require?
Consult your doctor, nearest vaccination centre or pharmacist for the most up-to-date requirements recommended for the area to which you are travelling. Also please refer to the Australian Government’s Smart Traveller website for additional information.

What sort of first aid and medical items should I bring with me?
It may be useful to bring a supply of basic items with you. A first aid kit may include band-aids, antiseptic, aspirin, cough medicine, throat lozenges, cold and flu medication, diarrhoea medication, mild laxative, eye ointments/drops for minor infections, a general antibiotic and any special medications you may need personally. Please remember to bring a letter from your doctor or a copy of the prescription for any medication that you are carrying with you.

How do know my special requirements are taken care of?
Your special requirements have been passed onto all suppliers. Special requirements refer to airline seating, special dietary and medical needs and cruise dinner seating requests. These requirements are on a request basis only and cannot be guaranteed by Scenic Tours. We strongly advise that you reconfirm your special requests with the Scenic Tour Director upon joining your tour.

What books can I read in preparation for this tour?
There are many wonderful books to choose from and we highly recommend:

• How to be a Canadian: Even if you already are one - Will Fergusson
• Canada's First Nations: A history of found peoples from earliest times - Olive Patricia Dickson
• The History of Canada - Scott W. See
• Call of the Wild - Jack London
• The Bite of the Gold Bug: A Story of the Alaskan Gold Rush - Barthe Declements 
• Discover Alaska: An Introduction to America's Last Frontier - Art Davidson
• Alaska - James A. Michener

Hotels

What time can I check in to my hotels?
In many locations, hotel check-in is generally between the hours of 15.00-17.00. If you arrive early, we suggest you ask your hotel to store your luggage so you can explore the area. You can also rest in the guest lounge or lobby, or request an early check-in or reserve a pre-night.

Are laundry facilities available?
Laundry facilities are only available at Delta Sun Peaks Resort and the Fairmont Chateau Whistler. Laundry facilities in Banff, Victoria and Vancouver are located close to your hotel, so please ask your Tour Director for details of these facilities.

Do I need to bring electrical adaptor plugs?
Yes, you will require an adaptor plug, as Canada and Alaska's electricity current is 110 volts at 40 cycles per seconds. Appropriate adaptor plugs should be purchased before leaving home to use for items such as razors and mobile phone chargers and you should check with your mobile supplier as you may require a transformer for your mobile charger.

Rail

What do I do with my luggage on the Rocky Mountaineer train?
Gold Leaf passengers will have their luggage checked through to their hotel room in Kamloops. You have limited hand luggage space in Gold Leaf.  Red Leaf passengers must remember to pack down to an overnight bag, as your luggage will go straight through to the next hotel on tour after the Rocky Mountaineer journey. You will have plenty of hand luggage storage space above you on the train.

Which hotel do I stay at in Kamloops?
The Rocky Mountaineer allocate both Red Leaf and Gold Leaf hotels for the one night stay in Kamloops and will advise you upon boarding.

Where will the Tour Directors be situated on the Rocky Mountaineer?
Movements are restricted on the train due to operational reasons, but where possible the Tour Directors will move between Red and Gold Leaf to assist you with any general questions you may have.

Cruises

Who will accompany us on our cruises?
There will be an additional Cruise Representative on board our cruise ships, however it may be a different person to the representative escorting the land portion. The Cruise Representative is available if you require information, cruising tips, or have any questions during Hospitality Desk hours, which are assigned at the discretion of each ship. The Cruise Representative can also be contacted at any time through the ship’s cabin-to-cabin telephone. Watch for the newsletter that our Scenic Cruise Representative will deliver to your cabin the first evening on board, which will include details of Hospitality Desk Hours, Welcome Presentation and Disembarkation Meeting times and locations.

Will I need any documentation with me for the cruises?
Yes, you will need to have your passport, cruise documentation and immigration forms ready and available (not in your suitcase).

Will I be pre-assigned a cabin?
Cruise lines do not always pre-allocate cabin numbers. If your cabin number is not shown on your documentation, your cabin will be assigned when you board the ship. Cabin allocation is at the discretion of the ship, your stateroom number is not guaranteed/confirmed until cruise check-in, even if a stateroom number has already been provided in your documentation. From time to time, cruise liners may upgrade passengers at no additional cost, yet this is on a random basis only.

Will my special dietary requirements be available on the cruise?
Dining preferences are on a request basis and not guaranteed, however any queries should be directed to the maitre' d once you have boarded your ship.

When should I complete the ship’s disembarkation form?
Your Scenic Tours on board Cruise Representative will arrange your disembarkation from the ship. Please do not complete the ship’s disembarkation form, as it will interfere with our group disembarkation arrangements.

Why can’t Scenic Tours provide the specific Holland America Line documents?
Holland America Line require passengers (or agent on their behalf) to accept the Terms and Conditions on the Holland America Line website. This must be completed before you are able to print your Express Docs. Your Express Docs include your Signature Preferred Boarding Pass, which is required to board the cruise ship. Unfortunately due to this new process from Holland America, Scenic Tours is no longer able to provide the service of printing the cruise documentation on your behalf.  To access these Terms and Conditions and to print Express Docs, please go to the Holland America website.

Why must I check-in online on Holland America Line ships?
For your convenience, and to expedite your embarkation, it is mandatory that all our guests check-in online. Please complete this process at least 30 days prior to your departure as U.S. Government security regulations requires certain guest information for check-in (i.e. immigration and disembarkation details, credit card registration forms, etc).

Please note: Guests who wait to check in at the terminal risk being unable to sail and will be responsible for all costs incurred to join the vessel at the next port. If Holland America Line do not have your information 90 minutes prior to departure you will be unable to sail. Personal Information will be handled in accordance with Holland America Line Privacy Policy which is available on their website.

What is the required process for embarkation on Holland America Line ships?
Please complete all the forms required by Holland America Line as outlined on their website. Once you complete and submit these forms online, you will be able to print out your Signature Preferred Boarding Pass to expedite your embarkation process at the pier. Upon arrival at the pier before embarkation, you will go to the line for Signature Preferred Check-In where we will verify your information, take your photo for security purposes and give you your on board key card, giving you access to our convenient on board cashless society. In addition to your Signature Preferred Boarding Pass, you are also required to show appropriate identification, passport, visa and immunisation information, plus the cruise documents that contain your cruise contract. For questions and/or help with completing your Online Check-in forms please contact your Travel Agent or Holland America Line Reservations.  Missing or incorrect data may delay embarkation or result in denied boarding without compensation.

Are all expenses covered whilst on the cruise ship?
No. You are required to carry a credit card or sufficient cash to cover any additional on board personal expenses, including gratuities/tipping.

Coaches

Are the coaches the same as in Australia?
In Canada and Alaska our coaches are not custom designed, as it is illegal in Canada to have two-door coaches.

Do I have an allocated seat on the tour coaches?
To ensure all passengers have the opportunity to enjoy front and window seats, a daily seat rotation system is employed on all our coaches. It works on a scatter system, rotating everyone by numbers, which allows you to get to know other members of the group you may not have already met. Please note that we are unable to accommodate adjacent seating for parties greater than two.

What monetary currency is in use in Canada and Alaska?
Canadian dollars are used throughout Canada. As Alaska is part of the United States, it uses American currency.

How much foreign money should I bring with me?
Before you leave on your trip, it is important to try and obtain a small amount of cash in both US and Canadian dollars for on the first day and for use at the airports during transit. Foreign currency can be purchased before you leave at major banks and international airports.

Are all credit cards accepted on all legs of the tour?
Most international credit cards are accepted locally and on cruise ships, such as American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa. Before travelling you should check that your credit cards are valid for at least 30 days after the completion of the tour. Please also note that some banks require you to advise them prior to departure that you will be using your credit card overseas.

Are ATMs readily available?
Yes. Ensure your card has been activated and don’t forget your PIN.

Can I take travellers cheques or pre-paid travel money cards?
Yes. We recommend that you take US dollar travellers cheques for all tours including Canada. Remember to make a separate note of all the numbers and denominations of your travellers cheques as well as the international emergency phone number in case of loss or theft. You can also purchase prepaid travel money cards in the currencies of the destinations you are travelling.

What are banking hours?
Most banks are open between 9.00 and 15.00 on weekdays. Please note that not all banks have foreign exchange facilities that accept Australian currency.

What is the tipping protocol?
Tipping in both Canada and Alaska is a customary practice to show appreciation for the service received, and many employees rely on tipping for their income. Tipping is voluntary and on an individual basis. Tipping is customary for the following expenses:

• Restaurants - tip 15% of the total bill before tax has been added
• Hotels – Leave $1 to $2 per person for housekeeping staff 
• Coaches - For one-off transfers (i.e. from the hotel to the train station or the pier) a $2 per bag tip is appropriate for the driver moving your luggage on and off the coach
• Taxis - 15% of the bill
• Porters - $2 per bag each way for porters in hotels, railways and airports

Does Scenic Tours cover tips?
Yes, we cover tips for Tour Directors and Drivers in Canada, meals included on the tour, plus cruise, rail and coach tour tipping. Tips are NOT included for meals other than included meals, drinks, taxis, transfers or items of a personal nature.

Do they charge GST in Canada and the USA?
Yes, but Canadian taxes such as GST/PST (5% Goods and Services Tax and 7% Provincial Sales Tax) are added after the displayed purchase price. This differs in Quebec and Ontario which both add a 13% HST (harmonized sales tax) and in British Columbia which adds a 12% tax, replacing the GST and PST.

Can I purchase native products to bring into Australia?
Certain materials cannot be exported and there are restrictions for imports into Australia. Materials like whale, bear and lynx are illegal while others like caribou, mammoth, mastodon ivory and walrus can potentially be imported with the appropriate paper work. Many Alaskan dolls have fur on them, which may not be permitted in Australia. When purchasing Native art such as carvings, look for an igloo in Canada and a silver hand or a polar bear in Alaska, which verify the artwork is authentic native art. Please go to the Australian Customers and Border Protection website for the most accurate and up to date information.  

Custom Allowances
Apart from personal effects, returning travellers over 18 years of age are allowed to bring into Australia the following goods duty free. Alcohol – 2.25 litres, cigarettes/tobacco – 250 grams or 50 cigars, other articles up to a total combined value of AU$900 are free of duty and tax, but goods in excess of this may attract both.

What is the climate like in Canada and Alaska?
Canada's climate is diverse, with temperature and precipitation differing from region to region and from season to season. In the extreme north temperatures climb above 0°C for only a few months a year, but most of Canada has mild springs and summers and pleasantly crisp autumns for around seven months. Alaska enjoys extended daylight hours throughout the state in the summer months. The further north you travel, the more pronounced the difference.

What temperatures can I expect?
Temperatures in Canada will generally be mild and sunny during June, July, August and early September ranging from 10°C to 25°C. Umbrellas and a waterproof coat are highly recommended however. Summer temperatures in Alaska range from 15°C to 24°C. Night time and early mornings are cooler, from the 4°C to 10°C. Late August and September departures could encounter cooler temperatures and slightly fewer hours of sunlight, as the fall arrives early at these latitudes.  The average temperatures are as follows:

How can I make telephone calls back to Australia?
The international telephone services are generally of excellent standard but it is important to remember that telephone calls from hotels are surcharged. Ship-to-shore telephone calls can also be extremely expensive. If you decide to make a direct call to Australia you must dial the international access code 011 followed by the country code 61 (Australia), the area code (without the 0) and the phone number. Phone cards like Bravo, Chit Chat and Mega are the most efficient and economical way to call home. They can be purchased in Victoria and Vancouver at convenience stores and tourist information centres in $5, $10 or $20 options.

To make reverse charges or collect phone calls to Australia while in Canada or the United States, please dial the relevant phone number listed below. The operator will assist you with your preferred charge type.
- In Canada: 1800 663 0683 (Teleglobe)
- In the United States: 1800 682 2878 (AT&T) or 1800 676 0061 (Sprint)

What are the time zone differences?
The following are guidelines only, as daylight saving changes will alter variances:

• Alaska (Anchorage) = 18 hours behind Australian Eastern time
• Pacific (Vancouver) = 17 hours behind Australian Eastern time 
• Mountain i.e. Banff = 16 hours behind Australian Eastern time
• Atlantic (Toronto/New York) = 14 hours behind Australian Eastern time

What languages are spoken?
Canada has two official languages English and French, however English is primarily spoken in the Western Provinces of Alberta and British Columbia.  French is the primary language spoken in Quebec. The USA’s official language is English.

Is the water safe to drink?
Yes, the tap water in Canada and the USA is safe to drink.

Can you accommodate special dietary requirements?
Yes. If you have not already advised your travel agent at the time of booking please let your Tour Director know at the start of the tour of any special needs or dietary requirements so they can be best accommodated. Remember your favourite food items will not always be available as they eat very different food to us, especially at breakfast.

When do I advise my choice for Scenic FreeChoice Dining?
Scenic Free Choice Dining is subject to availability and is restricted to limited numbers and dining times. Pre-selection of your preferred dining choice will be required prior to your arrival into each applicable destination. Your Tour Director will do all possible to accommodate your choice; unfortunately this may not always be achievable. Scenic Free Choice dining is not available in Eastern Canada.

Do I need to be aware of anything else when dining?
Yes, entrées are actually main courses and appetisers are what we would refer to as an entrée.

Safety

What precautions should I take for safe travel?
Your safety is very important to us at Scenic Tours. Please be aware that wildlife roam free in Canada‘s country regions. If you encounter any wildlife during your holiday please exercise caution and keep a reasonable distance away. We recommend you keep at least three bus lengths (30 metres) away from large animals and about three times that distance (100 metres) away from bears.

How do I judge how safe it is to travel?
You must make your own inquiries regarding safety warnings and government warnings in relation to the destinations you are travelling to. These change quite regularly and can be found through the Department of Foreign Affairs Travel Advisory website. Scenic Tours can accept no responsibility for the actions of terrorism, etc in certain locations.

Are pickpockets prevalent?
Crowded tourist sites all over the world are at pickpocket risk so you should always be on alert. Keep your money hidden preferably in an inside pocket or money belt. Make two photocopies of valuables such as your passport, tickets, visas and travellers cheques. Keep one copy with you in a separate place to the original and leave another copy with someone at home.

What else should I be aware of?
While travelling don't carry too much cash and remember that expensive watches, jewellery and cameras may be tempting targets for thieves. 

What do I do if my passport is lost or stolen?
Your passport is a valuable document that is attractive to criminals who may try to use your identity to commit crimes. It should always be kept in a safe place. You are required by Australian law to report a lost or stolen passport. If your passport is lost or stolen overseas, report it online or contact the nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate as soon as possible.

Additional Information

What else should I be aware of?

• In Canada, Alaska and the rest of the US, cars drive on the opposite side of the road, so remember to look left when you cross the road 
• Toilets are referred to as ‘washrooms’

How do I select my Scenic FreeChoice activities?
Scenic Free Choice activities are subject to availability, operational and seasonal factors. All activities can be reserved, subject to availability with the Scenic Tour Director whilst on tour unless otherwise stated. Please note a minimum number of people are required for some activities to operate. In some cases in Victoria your Free Choice itinerary may be provided in a different order than stated but you will still enjoy all your touring inclusions.