Travel

Visa information

Most visitors to Canada will not require a visa for their stay; however, please be sure to verify you are travelling with proper identification and visas by referring to the Government of Canada website section on ‘Visiting Canada’.

Currency

Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Foreign currency is rarely accepted.  Some stores highly trafficked by tourists will accept the US Dollar. You can exchange your currency at the airport or at one of many currency exchange stores located in downtown Toronto.  You may also withdraw CAD from an ATM- most cards will be accepted. VISA and MasterCard are widely accepted.

Power Adapters

Canada’s electrical supply and electrical outlets (sockets, wall plugs) are the same as those found in the United States. Adapters must conform to either Type A or sometimes Type B sockets.

The electrical supply is 110 Volts and 60 Hertz (cycles per second).

To/from Pearson Airport

Taxi

Pearson International Airport is located about 30 minutes’ drive from downtown Toronto.  Currently, the most convenient form of transport from the airport is by taxi.  There are two types of taxis available: Taxis and Limo service.  A taxi to downtown Toronto (University of Toronto) will cost approximately $50CAD plus tip.  A limo for the same trip is approximately $60CAD plus tip.  To ensure you get a good rate, tell the driver where you are going and ask for a flat rate fare prior to getting into the vehicle.  It is also a good idea to verify your method of payment before hiring a taxi.  Most are able to take credit cards; however, there are a few that do not have this option.

Union Pearson Express Train

As of this writing the Union Pearson Express is currently under construction and should be completed by June 6 of 2015.  The train will run from Terminal 1 to Union Subway Station.  From there the University of Toronto is a short taxi or subway ride away.  The fare for the UPE will be $27.50CAD.  Please check the website for up to date information on this service.

Public transport

The Toronto Transit Commission runs several routes from the airport to the subway line.  The fare is $3.00CAD, and it takes approximately 90 minutes to reach downtown Toronto via the shortest route.  Please refer to the TTC website for more information on these options.