St John's, Newfoundland, Canada

What to wear in St John's, Newfoundland, Canada

Deciding what to wear in St. John's depends largely on the season you'll be there. From late spring through fall, visitors need medium-weight garb, including a sweater or jacket. Rain can be heavy, so it's wise to pack a raincoat or umbrella. During the summer, light pants and T-shirts are fine, but between November and April heavy jackets and boots are a must. People in this area dress modestly as a rule, and tend to get a bit more dressed up in the evening.

Spoken language in St John's, Newfoundland, Canada

Canada's two official languages are English and French. Newfoundlanders speak a strong provincial dialect of English.

Electricity in St John's, Newfoundland, Canada

Adapters are not necessary since the electrical current is the same in Canada and the United States.

Customs information for St John's, Newfoundland, Canada visitors

We strongly suggest that you verify with a consulate for the most current and complete rendering of the information outlined below.

Entry

American citizens are not required to have either a passport or visa to enter Canada, but you must have proof of citizenship such as a birth certificate with a raised seal and a government-issued photo ID. Naturalized US citizens must have their naturalization certificate, and alien permanent residents must carry their Alien Registration Receipt Card.

Canadian Customs

Visitors may enter Canada with personal effect duty-free provided that they declare them to customs officials upon arrival and that the goods are not subject to restrictions. Persons aged 16 and over are authorized to take 50 cigars, 200 cigarettes, and 2.2 pounds of smoking tobacco. Persons 18 and over may take 40 ounces of duty-free alcoholic beverages.

Cultural Property

Canada has restrictions to ensure that objects of historical, cultural, artistic, and scientific significance remain in Canada. To take objects that are more than 50 years old (or made by a person who is no longer living) out of the country-including artifacts, fossils, fine art, decorative art, rare books, or archival materials-you may require an export permit. You must contact the Movable Cultural Property Program, 15 Eddy Street, 3rd Floor, Room 13, Hull, Quebec, Canada K1A 0M5, 819-997-7761 (phone), 819-997-7757 (fax).

US Customs

US residents returning from Canada after a visit of 48 hours or more may return with $800 worth of duty-free articles for personal use. Up to 100 cigars (non-Cuban), 32 ounces of alcoholic beverages (travelers over age 21), and 200 cigarettes per person may be included. Works of art are exempt, however, a receipt of purchase may be required.

US Embassy

490 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Canada, phone 613-238-5335.

Advising for St John's, Newfoundland, Canada visitors

We strongly advise that you confirm the following information and regard this only as a basic guide.

Moose and Driving

There are approximately 150,000 moose on Newfoundland, and most highways cross moose habitat. These animals can be unpredictable, so slow down if you see one on or near a highway. Pay close attention to Moose-Crossing signs, and avoid driving at night when possible.

Currency

Canadian dollars are the nation's currency, though US dollars are widely accepted. To get the best exchange rate, exchange at least some of your money into Canadian funds at a bank. Traveler's checks and major US credit cards are also accepted.

Tipping

Customs are the same in Canada as in the US. Tips are not usually added to the bill; tip approximately 15% of the total bill for waiters, waitresses, hairdressers, and taxi drivers. For maid service, leave between $2 and $3 per day.

Time Zone

Newfoundland has its own time zone--Newfoundland Standard Time--which is 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic Standard Time and 90 minutes ahead of Eastern Standard Time.

Tax Refunds

The GST (Goods and Services Tax) is reimbursable upon departures, but you must keep your receipts. Visitors can obtain a copy of the Tax Refund Application for Visitors at any Customs Office and most tourism centers, duty-free shops, and some hotels. The form is short and easy to fill out and with your receipts, is all you need to be reimbursed as you exit the country.