Practical Information
Canadian Currency
Canadian currency is the Canadian dollar, which is divided into 100 cents. There are 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 dollar bills. Coins include 1 and 2 dollars and the smaller 5, 10 and 25 cent pieces. Banking and credit cards are also welcome almost everywhere.
Taxes and Tips
Taxes
There are two applicable taxes in Québec: a federal Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 5% and a Québec provincial tax (TVQ) of 9.975%. A 3.5% accommodation tax is also in effect in Montreal.
Tips
It is customary to tip restaurant waiters, taxi drivers and hairdressers 15% of the bill, before taxes. Bellhops, porters, doormen, etc. generally receive at least $2 per suitcase or per service rendered. Coffee and food counters often have a tip cup next to the cash register; spare change is always appreciated.
Emergency Numbers
In case of emergency: 911
Info-Santé: 811
Québec Poison Control Centre: 1 800 463-5060
Accessibility
Accessibility for people with disabilities – Kéroul
514 252-3104 | keroul.qc.ca
Establishments have been assessed accessible according to criteria set by Kéroul and approved by the Ministère du Tourisme du Québec. For people with a restricted physical disability, Kéroul provides information on tourism and culture.
The handicapped person can enter and move around the establishment without assistance.
The handicapped person requires assistance to enter and move around the establishment.
Tourist and Leisure Companion for persons living with a disability
1 833 693-2253 ꟾ aqlph.qc.ca/carte-accompagnement-loisir
Some tourist and leisure activity sites give free access to the companion of a person living with a permanent disability.
Access (free) to wireless internet
Consult the network map free wifi public access areas.
Driving in Québec
Québec uses the metric system, so speeds are indicated in kilometres (100 km/h = 62 mph) and gas is sold in litres (3 3/4 litres = 1 US gallon).
Right turn: Although turning right on a red light is authorized across Québec (except at intersections where a sign indicates this is not permitted), rights on reds are strictly prohibited on the island of Montreal.
Cell Phone: Use of a hand-held cell phone that does not have a hands-free function is prohibited while driving.
Parking: There are many paid parking lots and automatic pay stations.
Electric vehicle: Electric charging stations are available at the following locations