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Living
in Vancouver
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 How do I use the public transportation system in Vancouver?
 In Vancouver there are 3 types of public transportation: bus, seabus and skytrain.
 All 3 systems are connected. The city is divided into "zones"*. When you travel between zones,
you may have to upgrade your fare
(except after 6pm, weekends and holidays when ALL zones are the same fare).
*Bus Passes: You can purchase a 1-month bus pass (valid from the 1st day of the month until
the last day of the month eg. May 1-May 31).
The fee is currently $69CAD and it can be purchased at most convenience stores (7-11, Safeway).
Look for a "Fare Saver Dealer" sign. With this pass you can travel on the bus, skytrain, and
seabus as many times as you want. When traveling across zones you may have to upgrade your pass.
*Faresaver Tickets: You can buy a booklet of 10 tickets, each valid for 1 fare.
The current fee is $20CAD. When you put your ticket into the farebox, a time will be printed on
the back. The ticket then becomes a transfer and you may use it as many times as you like until
the time expires.
*Transfer: If you are not using a bus pass, put the exact fare (currently $2.25CAD) into
the farebox. A ticket, also known as a "transfer", will be issued which will have a time printed
on the back.
You can use this transfer to take other buses, skytrain or the seabus until the time expires.
How much spending money should I bring with me?
It depends on how long you will be in Canada, how much traveling you plan to do and if you love
to shop! You should expect to pay about $70/month for your bus pass. Most students report they
need approximately $50/week + travel expenses.
*Some average prices for entertainment in Vancouver are:
- Movie theatres: $10~$12
- Soda: $1.50
- Meal in a casual restaurant: $10
- Meal in a mid-range restaurant: $10-$15
- Beer in a nightclub: $4~$6
*Travel and excursions (rates may vary depending on season):
- Rocky Mountains 4-day trip: $300
- Whistler: $45
- Victoria: $75
- Seattle: $50~-$100 (NBA and MLB game tickets may be included)
Where can I exchange money?
You can exchange money to Canadian dollars at any bank. There are also many currency exchange
offices around Vancouver which often offer better exchange rates than the bank.
How can I open a bank account?
You will need to show your passport and another piece of identification(credit card, driver's license),
address to open a bank account. There are different types of accounts you can apply for.
Be sure to discuss the bank fees and get a debit / ATM card!
Do I have to have medical insurance coverage when I come to Canada?
While you are in Canada, you must have medical insurance. You cannot study at IH Vancouver
without medical insurance! Even if you do not get sick, a small accident may happen and
you might have to go the hospital or the doctor. A short trip to the doctor of hospital could
cost hundreds of dollars!
Where can I buy travel medical insurance?
Most students buy travel insurance from their travel agent in their home country.
If you have not purchased insurance in your home country, you can get it in Canada,
either from a travel or insurance agency in Vancouver or from the IH Vancouver office.
You must show proof of insurance on your 1st day of classes.
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