Vancouver's Downtown East Side, which encompasses the area from the waterfront north to Venables Street and Cambie Street east to Clark Street, is best avoided at night—it is known for drug activity, prostitution and other criminal acts. Similarly, Victoria's waterfront area between Yates and Herald streets is also a place where drug users often congregate and is best avoided after dark.
Dos & Don'ts
Do take along proof of legal custody if you're a separated or divorced parent arriving from the U.S. with children. For proof, you'll need custody papers and birth certificates for both you and your child and, if you have joint custody, a notarized letter from the other parent giving permission for travel. Immigration officials may or may not ask you for these materials, but it's better to be safe than stuck at customs.
Do keep in mind that a driver's license and voter registration card are no longer sufficient proof of U.S. citizenship when crossing the border to or from Canada. Either a passport or a birth certificate with a photo ID is required.
Don't take revolvers, pistols or fully automatic firearms into the province—they are not allowed into Canada.
Do get a copy of the B.C. Road Map and Parks Guide from the tourist office if you're planning to visit one of the province's nearly 450 parks.
Do get hunting and fishing licenses if you plan to participate in either activity. You'll need two separate licenses if you plan to fish in both fresh and salt water.
Don't think driving in the winter is easy business. Highways, especially in the mountains, can become ice-packed and hazardous. Call ahead for local road conditions.
Do keep alert if you venture into the backcountry on logging roads. Some routes may appear inactive, but logging trucks still use them and have the right of way. Don't expect them to stop.
Do make sure you have adequate out-of-country medical insurance before leaving home.
Do take vaccination records if you intend to travel into Canada with your pet.
