Join us in Vancouver, Canada for PCIH 2009
Incredible mountains, sparking ocean and a cosmopolitan flair make Vancouver perfect for work and play. Exceptional cuisine, first-class hotels and all the energy of a dynamic, multicultural city set in a spectacular natural environment are just some of things that will make the Vancouver experience unforgettable for PCIH attendees.
Vancouver was voted the "Best City in the Americas" for 2004, 2005 and 2006 by Condé Nast Traveler magazine, based on the categories of ambience, friendliness, culture and sites, restaurants, lodging, and shopping. This is just one of the city's many awards and accolades that clearly demonstrate the many reasons to visit Vancouver!
Canada 101
Language
- English and French are Canada’s two official languages.
- Vancouver is a predominantly English-speaking city.
Currency
- All of Canada uses the Canadian Dollar, but most locales also accept U.S. dollars.
- Bills are available in $1 and $2 coins, $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 paper dollars.
- Most U.S. banks will not buy back coins in exchange for U.S. dollars.
- Banks are generally open Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Purchases
- At any bank of ATM machine, Canadian funds from a foreign account may be withdrawn.
- Major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted.
- In general, ATM withdrawals and credit cards offer the most favorable rate of exchange.
- The tax rate for goods and services is currently 7% GST.
Tipping
- A 15%-20% gratuity is standard at most restaurants and for cab drivers.
- Bellhops and baggage porters are generally tipped $1 CAD per item.
Climate
- Daytime temperatures in October are in the mid-50s; evenings cool to the mid-40s.
- Bring a sweater or jacket; the temperature in the hotel will be cool.
Fairmont Vancouver Hotel
900 West Georgia Street
Vancouver, BC V6C 2W6, Canada
Like the city that surrounds it, the Fairmont Vancouver Hotel is rich in history, resplendent in natural beauty, vibrant and cosmopolitan. Within the walls of this Vancouver landmark you will find the modern conveniences for business and leisure travelers. The luxuriously-appointed sleeping rooms are spacious and comfortable and include Internet connections, two-line telephones, halogen lamps and coffee makers. The hotel also houses a luxurious spa, a state-of-the-art health club, and award-winning restaurants. The hotel is in a great central downtown location within walking distance of many of Vancouver's top attractions and popular restaurants.
Room rates are $190 CAD (approx $170 U.S.) single/double, plus 16.5% tax (taxes are subject to change). Rates are available September 27-October 12, 2009, subject to availability. A limited number of government rate rooms are available.
Hotel reservations cannot be processed without a credit card guarantee to hold the room. The card may be charged one night’s room and tax by the hotel to secure the reservation.
The deadline for making reservations is August 24, 2009. After this date, rooms may be reserved at the conference rate on a space-available basis only.
