California

 
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The Golden State

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Known for its sunshine and glamour, California has it all. In the northern region, you can sip on wine in beautiful Napa Valley & Sonoma, or watch the mist roll in across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. In the southern region, you can soak in the sun along the Orange County Coast, discover what the Coachella Valley has to offer in Palm Springs, or spend the day at the beach in San Diego. From the northern part of the state to the southern part, there's fun to be had in every city.

       

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Overview

From the north to the south, you'll find more than enough to do in this golden state – so much so you'll need to plan for a second trip to get it all in! Up north, you can lose yourself in the vineyards of Napa Valley & Sonoma and taste some of the finest wine produced in the country. While you're up there head over to San Francisco and check out the Golden Gate Bridge. Did you know that San Francisco is also home to Ghirardelli? Make sure to stop by Ghirardelli Square to indulge in some chocolatey goodness, and while you're in the neighbourhood swing by Boudin Bakery to load up on some delicious baked goods. Down south, you'll discover a plethora of activities along the Orange County Coast, and just a bit further inland is the delightful area of Palm Springs – a desert oasis with stylish hotels, countless golf courses, hot springs, and hiking trails. As you make your way further south to San Diego you'll find those classic California beaches filled with sunshine, surfers and palm trees. Be sure to sign up for a surf lesson or check out the famous roller coaster The Giant Dipper at Belmont Park for a different kind of thrill. No matter what city you visit, California has something for everyone.

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Before You Go

Airport Check-In: It is recommended that you reconfirm your flight information and check in for your flights at the airline’s website 24 hours prior to your scheduled departure. Please bring all your final documents with you. It is important to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes prior to departure for all domestic flights, and two to three hours prior to departure for international flights.

Required Documents: Passports are required for international travel. You will not be permitted to depart without necessary documentation. There may be additional requirements for international travel, such as vaccinations or visas, and some countries require that passports be valid for six months or longer beyond your stay in the country. Passport and entry requirements are subject to change at any time without notice. For the most current information on passport and entry requirements, please visit the Government of Canada official website at http://travel.gc.ca. Special travel documents are required for children traveling with or without their parents. If you are traveling with children, please check with the airline or cruise line prior to departure. If you are not a Canadian citizen, you must contact the consulate of the country you are visiting.

Newlywed Information: Tickets and other travel documents must exactly match your current passport and other identification. If not, you could be denied boarding and no refund will be forthcoming. For requirements and information regarding marriages performed in a foreign country, please visit the consulate of the particular country.

Honeymoon Packages: Some hotels require you to present a marriage certificate or licence for you to receive the honeymoon package. Please bring your marriage documentation with you if you are traveling on a honeymoon package.

Minors: If a minor (under 18) is traveling, please provide the appropriate travel documents for the trip. Review required documents here, https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/children/children-travel.

Luggage: Baggage allowances and fees vary by airline. For airline baggage fees and policies please visit https://www.costcotravel.ca/Info/Airline-Baggage. If baggage fees do apply, this cost will be additional and must be paid directly to the airline.

Duty Free/Customs: When returning to Canada the duty-free allowance may vary by country. Please visit https://travel.gc.ca/returning/customs for more information.

Travel Health Information: For the most current worldwide health information, consult your family physician or https://travel.gc.ca for advice and advisories.

General Safety Tips: By taking a few simple security precautions before and during your vacation, you can help ensure that you, your traveling companions, and your valuables are as safe and secure as possible.
  • To make it easier to replace your passport if it’s lost or stolen, in addition to your passport, take a photocopy of your passport information page (keeping it separate from your actual passport).
  • Carry only a limited amount of cash, just enough for gratuities and incidental purchases. Major credit cards are widely accepted and can be replaced if lost or stolen.
  • Always lock your hotel room door (including patio and balcony door on any level of the building) and use the peephole before opening the door.
  • Store your valuables (such as cash, credit cards and airline tickets) in the hotel’s in-room safe or front desk safety deposit box.
  • If you must carry valuables on your person, do so in a pouch or money belt concealed under your clothing. Purses and backpacks can be easy targets for thieves.
  • For complete and current safety and security information, including travelers' tips, public announcements, travel advisories and more, please visit the Government of Canada official website at https://travel.gc.ca.

Climate:
Average Celsius Temperature:
  • December through February: 18° to 20° (Winter)
  • March through May: 21° to 24° (Spring)
  • June through August: 27° to 30° (Summer)
  • September through November: 29° to 22° (Autumn)

Water Safety: Tap water is safe to drink. Bottled water is recommended.

Local Currency: U.S. Dollar

Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time

Local Language: English

Transportation: Rental cars, private transfers, ridesharing services, taxis and buses are available. To determine time schedules for public transportation, please inquire at your hotel.