Frequently Asked Questions

About Ski Travel

Absolutely.
  • Ski Travel, located in Fairfax, VA, has been family-operated by Dan Callahan, his family and his dedicated team since its inception in 1981.
  • Each winter, Ski Travel welcomes students from more than 80 public and private high schools to embark on unforgettable journeys.
  • Since its founding in 1981, Ski Travel has had the privilege of taking over 132,000 students on exhilarating ski and snowboard adventures in Canada.
  • Ski Travel has become a multi-generational tradition, with Dan now leading the children of some of his original students on these remarkable ski trips.
  • Many of Dan's 14 children have honed their skiing and snowboarding skills in Canada, making it a cherished family activity.
  • Dan's mission is to provide young people with a wholesome winter travel and sports experience, much like the one he cherishes for his own family. These ski and snowboard adventures create lifelong memories for students.
  • If you'd like to get in touch with Dan, you can reach out to him via phone, email, or visit our office. For contact information, please refer to the "Contact Us" section at the bottom of the page.

About the trip

  • Your package includes two breakfasts, provided on the mornings of Day 2 and Day 3.
  • However, please note that lunches and dinners are not part of the package and are not included.
  • To cover these meals, we recommend that students have access to their ATM, credit card, or approximately $150 in cash (in addition to the $20 US CASH room deposit and the $20 US CASH Hotel Security Fee).
  • For the most secure and convenient way to make purchases, your ATM or Credit Card is highly recommended while in Canada. We kindly suggest that you inform your bank about your travel plans to Canada during the trip dates to avoid any payment issues.
  • IMPORTANT WARNING: Please be aware that AMEX GIFT CARDS do not function in Canada, and the majority of VISA or Mastercard GIFT CARDS also do not work for transactions in the country. It's advisable to rely on standard debit or credit cards for seamless transactions during your trip.
For more information on meals see the What to Eat? section CLICK HERE
  • Absolutely, they do, and it's conducted with a high level of organization and professionalism. As the journey progresses, a strong rapport is established between chaperones and students, fostering a sense of familiarity and cooperation.
  • Upon arrival, our Trip Staff and Director provide the students with a comprehensive orientation speech on the bus. They also review the Policy Agreement that both the parents and students have signed, ensuring that everyone is well-informed about the trip's rules and associated consequences.
  • Each student receives a laminated card that outlines their trip schedule, including mandatory check-in times. These check-in times occur in the early morning, ensuring readiness for a day of skiing, in the afternoon to ensure safe descent from the mountain, and finally, a late-evening check-in typically between 10:30 and 11:00 p.m. These measures are in place to prioritize the personal safety of our students and provide our staff with the opportunity to ensure that students are having a wonderful and secure experience throughout the trip.
  • Additionally, our staff is present in the hotel building, restaurants, and on the mountain alongside the students at all other times, maintaining a constant and watchful presence to ensure their well-being and enjoyment.
No.
  • High schools have mostly ceased sponsoring ski and snowboard trips for students since the early 1980s.
  • Ski Travel was founded in 1981 with the purpose of providing secure and supervised alternatives to the discontinued school-sponsored ski clubs and trips.
  • Ski Travel is a privately owned, family-operated company that specializes in student travel.
  • Presently, Ski Travel annually escorts students from 100 different high schools to world-class resorts in Quebec, Canada, for skiing and snowboarding adventures during the winter season.
  • Since our establishment in 1981, we have had the privilege of taking nearly 130,000 students from both public and private high schools in the suburbs of Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia on our remarkable trips.
  • Following your day of skiing or snowboarding at Mont St. Anne, you will reboard your bus for the journey back to the hotel, which is approximately a 30-minute ride. Upon reaching the hotel, our experienced Ski Travel adult chaperones, along with our professional Ski Travel staff and the hotel's attentive staff, will be available to facilitate the check-in process and provide any necessary assistance.
The check-in procedure consists of the following steps:Ski/Snowboard Equipment:
  • All skiing and snowboarding gear, including skis, snowboards, poles, boots, and ski/snowboard bags, will be securely stored on the bus overnight for your convenience.
  • Each student is allowed to stow one large bag or suitcase beneath the bus.
  • It is imperative that ALL bags be properly labeled with the student's full name, address, phone number, and school.
  • The hotel bellmen will ensure the bag is delivered to your respective room.
Room Keys:
  • Following the on bus orientation speech, students will be called by room.
  • Room key envelopes will be distributed to them as they exit the bus.
  • Students are then free to collect their room keys and carry-on bags before proceeding to their respective rooms
 
  • For nearly three decades, Gunther Charters has been our trusted bus company, ensuring a seamless and safe travel experience.
  • Buses and drivers are exceptionally well-prepared to navigate the challenging winter driving conditions in both the United States and Canada.
  • These buses adhere to regulations set by the Interstate Commerce Commission (ICC), and a significant portion of the trip takes place on major Interstate Highways, both in the U.S. and Canada.
Contrastingly, during a typical weekend at home, students often find themselves out with friends, frequently without adult supervision, and sometimes even being chauffeured by inexperienced teenage drivers. However, when students embark on SKI TRAVEL trips, they are in the capable hands of trained professionals and are under the watchful eye of responsible adults.
  • Buses are typically less than three years old, and their drivers possess extensive experience in managing various driving conditions, ensuring safety and peace of mind throughout the journey.
  • Gunther Charters is proud to operate a fleet of over 30 motor coaches. Our deluxe 56 passenger European motor coaches are meticulously maintained and upheld to rigorous maintenance standards.
  • Gunther Charters is dedicated to providing the most modern motor coaches for your traveling comfort.
  • Gunther is fully licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and maintains the mandated $5,000,000.00 liability insurance required by law.
  • Gunther is a Department of Defense (DoD) and a Transportation Safety Exchange (TSX) approved carrier. We are fully committed to the safety and comfort our clients.
This is a decision every parent must make based on their individual child, their child's friends, and previous experiences. When choosing Ski Travel, students are not traveling alone; instead, they are taking a step towards the responsibility they will encounter in their college years. Although they won't have direct parental supervision, this situation mirrors the independence they might experience on a weekend evening at home.We consider chaperoning as a partnership between parents and Ski Travel. If you entrust us with responsible kids, we're committed to providing them with the best ski trip ever, ensuring their safety and keeping them engaged throughout the weekend. We recognize that sometimes parents may have concerns about other students, and we address these issues with strict policies, including the potential expulsion of habitual offenders from the trips (see our Trip Policy Agreement, which requires signatures from both parents and students).As for bus transportation, parents can rest assured that their child is in the capable hands of professional drivers, alleviating worries commonly associated with teenage drivers back at home. Students are required to comply with mandatory check-ins at regular intervals, overseen by experienced adult chaperones. They stay in a comfortable and wholesome environment where they can focus on learning a lifelong sport. In many respects, they may be safer than they would be on a trip to the local mall with a group of friends, provided they make good choices.Youths of this age often stick together with peers of the same age and relish the opportunity to feel independent. They have the freedom to select their daily activities, meals, and hours, as long as they adhere to the check-in schedule. Old Québec is a historic, enclosed village dating back to the 1600s, and our hotel is located within these historic walls, ensuring proximity to activities.Old Québec is a pedestrian-friendly village, allowing young people to explore shops, dine with friends, and partake in the outdoor winter activities that Québec is famous for. The village is compact enough that chaperones, Ski Travel staff, and our students regularly interact, crossing paths in shops, on sidewalks, and in restaurants. This provides young people with an opportunity to make sound decisions in a sheltered environment, away from many of the concerns prevalent in the D.C. area.For the past 25+ years, Ski Travel has not imposed a formal curfew beyond the check-in at 10:30 or 11:00 p.m. Students are not permitted to enter any room except their own and must adhere to noise restrictions after this time, which are enforced by security personnel on each floor. After the last check-in, many students often choose not to go out again due to fatigue from skiing, the cold weather, travel, etc. However, for those who do venture out, the village is compact, and there's limited entertainment available during late hours. Consequently, most students retire to their rooms to spend time with their roommates or to get some rest to ensure they don't miss the morning check-in conducted by the chaperones.
  • Not exactly. Upon arrival at the resort during the orientation speech, the Ski Travel staff diligently imparts all resort and Ski Travel policies, rules, and their associated consequences to the students. This serves as both a reminder and an additional reference to the Policy Agreement that students and parents have previously signed before the trip.
  • To ensure clarity and organization, each student receives a laminated card containing their itinerary and mandatory check-in times. For the sake of security and order, students are restricted from entering any room other than their own after the evening check-in, which generally occurs between 10:30 and 11:00 p.m. Furthermore, a noise curfew is strictly enforced by security personnel on all floors after this designated time. However, students are permitted to congregate in the lobby and the village for meals and socializing.
  • We encourage you to review the comprehensive POLICY AGREEMENT (Rules of the trip) on our website. To attend, both a parent and student signature are required. We hope that parents will take the time to thoroughly discuss this agreement with their child to ensure mutual understanding and adherence to our policies.
Sure, there are closer ski destinations, particularly in Vermont, but there's truly nothing quite like the enchanting experience of Québec City and the nearby ski resorts of Mont St. Anne and Stoneham.Quebec City by night
  • Québec City has earned the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Treasure, standing as the sole walled city north of Mexico.
  • It offers an immersive journey through time, with historic neighborhoods that beckon you to explore their charming shops and restaurants, all amidst a backdrop of captivating winter scenery.
  • It's almost as if you've stepped into a fairy tale.
Skating in Quebec City
  • Mont St. Anne Ski Resort is conveniently just a 30-minute drive from our hotel, taking you along the picturesque St. Lawrence River, with breathtaking views of the renowned Montmorency Falls, which are even taller than Niagara Falls. Mont St. Anne itself is a world-class ski destination boasting 71 trails, a gondola, and consistently incredible snow conditions, with an average natural snowfall of nearly 200 inches.
2 snowboarders 
  • During this trip, we'll have the pleasure of skiing or snowboarding at Mont St. Anne for two days and also experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of Stoneham for one day.
  • Stoneham, often likened to a city ski resort, is a mere 20-minute drive from Old Québec.
  • It offers three distinct mountains, 42 thrilling trails, and impressive snowboard and freestyle skiing parks.
The magical combination of Old Québec City's Winter Wonderland and the local ski resorts creates an experience that's unparalleled anywhere in the world!For more info on the Two Mountains, Québec City: click these links Mountains   Québec City   Photos/Videos  
Ski Travel Student Reps
  • Since 1981, Ski Travel has had the privilege of collaborating with numerous exceptional students, including student leaders, athletes, honor students, avid skiers and snowboarders, and all-around outstanding individuals. These remarkable students constitute our Student Representatives, many of whom have gone on to achieve remarkable accomplishments in their lives.
  • Our Student Representatives are typically high school students from local public and private high schools who have either participated in our trips themselves or have had a family member, such as a parent, sibling, or relative, attend one of our trips in the past.
  • Student Reps play a crucial role in spreading the word about our upcoming trip offerings for the season, and in return, they earn valuable discounts.
  • Some of our most accomplished representatives have the opportunity to earn complimentary or heavily discounted trips, in addition to gaining valuable experience in sales, promotion, leadership, and interpersonal communication.
  • Notably, many Student Reps include their accomplishments in this role on their college applications.
  • If you are interested in becoming a Student Rep or would like more information, please don't hesitate to reach out: BE A REP INFO CLICK HERE
bus
  • The journey begins with students departing from the Virginia, Maryland, DC, or Baltimore Metro (usually a shopping center parking lot)
  • SKI TRAVEL staff ensures they are checked onto the bus.
  • After a few hours on the road, there's a dinner stop, during which chaperones establish rapport with the students.
  • The bus journey continues, providing students with the opportunity to chat, snack, watch videos, nap, and plan their weekend.
  • Buses make a stop, typically in New York State, to change bus drivers. These buses are well-equipped for long trips, offering students comfort with reclining seats, seat trays, and footrests.
  • In the early morning hours, students reach the Canadian border, where they present the necessary documents for entry.
  • Subsequently, they usually arrive at the resort around 6:30-7:30 am, ready to embark on their winter adventure.
For More Info and Full Trip Itinerary CLICK HERE  
Gunther bus outside
  • The majority of our buses are furnished by our primary motor coach partner, Gunther Charters .
  • It's important to be aware that on certain occasions, we may utilize buses from other contracted motor coach providers who adhere to ICC regulations.
  • Our European-style luxury touring buses are thoughtfully equipped with amenities such as restrooms and advanced features, allowing travelers to enjoy videos, music, or relax in comfort during the journey to Canada. We take pride in maintaining a modern fleet that is typically less than three years old.
  • Bus driver transitions occur, often in Albany, NY, where well-rested and refreshed drivers take over for the remaining journey to the resort. This ensures that our passengers have the safest and most comfortable travel experience possible.
  • Gunther is fully licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and maintains the mandated $5,000,000.00 liability insurance required by law.
  • Gunther is a Department of Defense (DoD) and a Transportation Safety Exchange (TSX) approved carrier. We are fully committed to the safety and comfort our clients.
Standard Amenities
  • CD Player
  • DVD Player
  • Flat Screen Video Monitors
  • Reclining Seats
  • Individual Foot Rest
  • Climate Control
  • Restroom
  • Overhead Luggage Compartments
  • P.A. System
  • Kneeling Coach
Premium Amenities (based upon availability)
  • On-board Wi-Fi Service
  • 110 Volt Electrical Outlets
 Gunther bus inside 
  • Approximately two days prior to the trip, you can expect to receive a TEXT MESSAGE (parent and student) and, in some cases, an email containing a link that provides specific information about the departure location and time.
  • As a general practice, our trips tend to commence shortly after the school day, usually between 3:30 and 4:30 p.m.
  • The departure point is typically a conveniently located shopping center near your school*.
*Please note that if your school has a smaller group of students participating, your pick-up location may be located a bit further away for logistical reasons. 
  • Room assignments are typically completed approximately 10 days prior to the trip's departure date.
  • The hotel rooms have been designed to accommodate a maximum of four individuals.
  • To maximize occupancy, all rooms are required to be filled with four students (unless you have opted for a lower occupancy upgrade).
  • During the trip registration process, students are asked to provide the names of their preferred roommates.
  • To ensure comfort and privacy, room assignments are made on a same-sex basis.
  • We make every effort to consider student preferences when assigning rooms, striving to accommodate their requests to the best of our ability.
  • To ensure the most favorable accommodations for everyone, SKI TRAVEL collaborates with the student representative for the group.
  • In the event that your roommate preference changes after you have registered, you will have the opportunity to update your new preference by clicking on the "MANAGE YOUR BOOKING" button found in the original Confirmation email you received.

Documentation

Travel Documents Required

Note: A Passport is NOT required forU.S. and Canadian citizen children age 19 and under traveling to Canada by bus. (Land Travel Only, NOT Air)Native-born U.S. and Canadian citizen children age 19 and under should have identification papers in the form of:
  • [1]  both an original birth certificate and government-issued photo identification (Public school ID is OK or DMV ID)
OR
  • [2] a Valid U.S. Passport.
 Click Here To see link for the U.S Customs and Border Patrol information on the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative."U.S. and Canadian citizen children under the age of 16 (or under 19, if traveling with a school, religious group, or other youth groups) need only present a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship and photo ID. The birth certificate can be original (BEST), photocopy, or certified copy." For students born in the VA-MD-DC area who need to obtain a certified copy of their birth certificate, please contact the Vital Records department by telephone or through their website.Virginia:IMPORTANT NOTE: VA Birth Certificates are now available at the DMV 1-800-662-6200 www.vdh.state.va.us/vitalrecMaryland: 1-800-832-3277 www.vitalrec.com/md.htmlD.C.: 202-442-5955 doh.dc.gov/service/birth-certificates Naturalized American citizens should carry documents such as a naturalization certificate to prove U.S. citizenship along with the government issued picture identification.  Alien permanent residents of the United States must carry their Alien Registration Card.All other NON-U.S. StudentsIf you are unsure of your status or document requirements, please contact the Canadian embassy and the US Department of State for further information.

Financial matters

We recommend students bring their ATM card or a credit card. (Your ATM or Credit Card bank will provide the best exchange rate)

There are two breakfasts included. Sunday and Monday Morning.  Lunch and dinner meals are not included and it is recommended that students bring their ATM, credit card or about $150 U.S. cash (above and beyond their $20 US CASH Refundable room deposit and $20 US CASH Non-Refundable Hotel Security Fee)

Canadian Money

  • The ATM and / or Credit Card is the safest and most reliable way to receive Canadian Money to purchase food or other items in Canada.  
  • Be advised AMEX, Most VISA or Mastercard gift cards do not work in Canada
  • Please advise your ATM bank or Credit Card company that you will be traveling to Canada during your trip dates.
  •  The area of Old Québec near the hotel features dining in all price ranges. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO on Where to Eat?
  • Students can use U.S. money at any merchant in Canada and receive Canadian currency as change but service charges will be part of the exchange rate.
  • Alternatively, students can get money at an ATM.
  • Generally, for the modest amounts students spend on these trips it’s not worth it to exchange it at a bank in the U.S. because of fixed service fees.
  • The Canadian dollar is usually worth more than a U.S. Dollar.
  • Exchange rates vary daily and the actual exchange rate at the time you are visiting Canada could be higher or lower.
 

Since meals are not included and it is recommended that students bring their ATM, credit card or about $150 U.S. cash (above and beyond their $20 US CASH room deposit and $20 US CASH HOTEL Security Fee)

  • Canadian Money
  • The ATM and / or Credit Card is the safest and most reliable way to make purchases or receive Canadian Money to purchase food or other items in Canada.  
  • Be advised AMEX gift cards do not work in Canada.
  • Most VISA or MC gift cards also do not work.
  • Please advise your ATM bank or Credit Card company that you will be traveling to Canada during your trip dates.
  • Students can use U.S. Money at any merchant in Canada and receive Canadian currency as change but service charges will be part of the exchange rate.
  • Alternatively, students can get money at a ATM in the resort village.
  • Generally, for the modest amounts students spend on these trips it’s not worth it to exchange it at a bank in the U.S. because of fixed service fees.   The Canadian dollar is worth more than a U.S. Dollar (currently Sept 2023).
  • Exchange rates vary daily and the actual exchange rate at the time you are visiting Canada could be higher or lower.

What to bring?

Plan your packing to allow easy access to ski apparel on arrival when students will change clothes and start skiing or snowboarding.IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE MAKE SURE ALL BAGS HAVE A TAG WITH YOUR NAME / SCHOOL / PHONE NUMBER

Baggage Limit

Space for storage is limited on the bus.  LUGGAGE LIMIT WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCEDPlease adhere to this strict luggage limit per person:
  • (1) large bag or suitcase
  • (1)  small carry-on bag for inside the bus
  • Ski equipment or snowboard. Ski or snowboard bags must contain ONLY skis, snowboards and boots. (no additional personal items or clothes)
IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE MAKE SURE ALL BAGS HAVE A TAG WITH YOUR NAME / SCHOOL / PHONE NUMBERBAGS PERMITTED IN THE HOTEL
  • Only (1) suitcase or bag + a carry on will be permitted in the hotel per student.
  • All skis and snowboard bags must remain on the bus
SKI TRAVEL recommends renting ski and snowboard equipment (ON your initial reservation form)Note: (OCT 2023) Due to current labor shortages in Québec the resorts will be limiting Ski and Snowboard Rentals. Please reserve early on your registration.
  • Rental includes: Skis, boots, poles, and helmet
  • OR Snowboard, bindings, boots, and helmet.
  • You can order rental equipment on your original reservation or add as an option later for pick-up at the resort directly through Ski Travel.
  • Please click MANAGE BOOKING on your original email confirmation to add Ski OR Snowboard Rental
Very Important Note regarding renting equipment at home (Please Read):
  • At the resort, you will have the chance to fix/exchange any equipment due to fitting /size or mechanical problems.
  • If you rent back home, you will have to pay for repairs on your (home) rented equipment. Or if your boot size is not working out.
 
Pack layers and prepare for the very cold weather. Please Pack your suitcase for easy access to change into ski/snowboard gear on arrival in the early AM.LUGGAGE LIMIT: VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON BAGGAGE LIMIT (See Below)
  • WHAT TO BRING

    First, remember we’ll ski as soon as we arrive in Canada, so pack your outdoor apparel on top in your bag for easy access. Students will need proof of identity and citizenship, at least $150 cash and /or a combination of ATM CARD or credit card, labeled prescription medicines, eyewear and warm skiing apparel.
  • Bring the following items with you the day of the trip:
    • Passport is not required for U.S. Citizens see HERE for required documents Documents to prove you are a U.S. Citizen (passport or both an original birth certificate with a raised seal and a government issued picture ID)
    • $20 bill (US cash only) Refundable Room Security Deposit + $20 (US cash only) Non-Refundable Hotel Security Fee (Collected on Bus)
    • Minimum of $150 US or ATM / CREDIT CARD for meals plus additional cash for other purchase
    • Any medicines you may need while away from home
    • Appropriate apparel for the weather including a warm coat, sweater and good shoes for walking around the village
    • Appropriate clothing for skiing or snowboarding, including goggles and gloves.
    • Bathing suit if you plan to use the pool
    • Ice Skates for free ice skating in Old Québec. (Skate rental also available for a small fee)
    • Pillow, blanket, bottled water, DVD movies for bus and some food to make your bus ride to Canada more comfortable and
    • Most Important! Pack or dress for easy access to your ski clothing as you will be changing to ski or snowboard apparel as soon as we arrive in Canada.  Check-in is not until 5:00 p.m.

BAGGAGE LIMIT

Space for storage is limited on the bus.  LUGGAGE LIMIT WILL BE STRICTLY ENFORCEDIMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE MAKE SURE ALL BAGS HAVE A TAG WITH YOUR BUS# NAME / SCHOOL / CELL PHONE NUMBERPlease adhere to this strict luggage limit per person:
  • (1) large bag or suitcase
  • (1)  small carry-on bag for inside the bus
  • Ski equipment or snowboard. Ski or snowboard bags must contain ONLY skis, snowboards and boots. (no additional personal items or clothes)
IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE MAKE SURE ALL BAGS HAVE A TAG WITH YOUR BUS# NAME / SCHOOL / CELL PHONE NUMBERBAGS PERMITTED IN THE HOTEL
  • Only (1) suitcase or bag + a carry on will be permitted in the hotel per student.
  • All skis and snowboard bags must remain on the bus

Other information

Religious Services (Catholic Mass)

  • Join the Ski Travel staff for Sunday morning for Catholic Mass at the stunning St. Anne de Beaupre Basilica. Just 5 minutes from the mountain.
  • A bus shuttle will depart from the Mont St Anne ski resort at 11:00 AM on Sunday for Roman Catholic Mass celebrated at the Basilica on Sundays at 11:30 AM.
  • The shrine is located just a few minutes from the resort. It is the most visited pilgrimage site in North America and is really worth the visit.
  • See the Basilica website for more information. CLICK HERE

Basilica of St. Anne de Beaupre

 

We strongly suggest that you purchase a Trip Cancellation / Medical insurance / Baggage / Trip Delay & Emergency Medical Transportation coverage from only $41*

*$41 based on Sample Quote on “Essential Plan” student age 16 as of 09/15/2023

You will be presented with a variety of plan options.
The lowest cost plan is the Essential Plan above.

Click HERE for details and to purchase TRIP INSURANCE 

Allianz travel insurance

Yes. SKI TRAVEL has a 24-hour local emergency answering service that can help with communication during a family emergency.Contact: Ski Travel office 703-425-5400
  • When greeting begins
  • Press 9 for Emergency
Or you can call the Hotel Chateau Frontenac main number and ask for Ski Travel Group during the trip.1-418-692-3861
CANCELLATION POLICY FROM YOUR ORIGINAL SIGNED RESERVATION CONTRACTPlease CLICK HERE for complete Policy InformationWe strongly recommend you purchase TRIP INSURANCE: Reimburses your prepaid, non-refundable trip expenses if you must cancel your trip due to a covered reason (See Covered reasons)CANCELLATION POLICY Cancellations must be made in writing.The date we receive is the date of cancellation:Email Cancellations To: info@skitravel.com Mail: Ski Travel| P.O. Box 1610 | Springfield, VA 22121
  • Cancellations received 60 or more days in advance of the trip will result in a refund of all payments except the initial deposit amount. (See payment plan for amounts)
  • Cancellations received 30 to 59 days before the trip will result in a refund less the deposit amount and second payment amount.(See payment plan for amounts)
  • Cancellations received less than 30 days before trip departure there are no refunds. However you may sell your space to another student:
Selling your space: Up to 14 days ahead of departure anyone may sell his or her space to another student provided SKI TRAVEL is notified and the replacement student submits a new reservation form at least 14 days in advance of departure. Subject to change. Selling a space is not the responsibility of Ski Travel
Important Information Regarding Departure from Canada and Weather Delays:Departure from Canada and Arrival Info Updates:
  • After 8:00 PM on the day of departure from the resort, you can access the most up-to-date information about departure and arrival details by visiting the confirmation link provided by text
  • To access this information easily, please CLICK HERE or on the home page skitravel.com

Our Policy on Weather Delays :
  • SKI TRAVEL has a remarkable record, having never cancelled a trip since our establishment in 1981. In fact, we view snowfall during a ski trip as a positive thing!
  • However, there may be instances when a major snowstorm impacts our metropolitan area either just before or during our trip to Canada. Naturally, this can cause concern among parents and guardians of our students who may be uncertain about the situation.
  • We want to assure you that SKI TRAVEL is dedicated to keeping both our students and their parents well-informed in the event of any severe weather-related situation.
  • In such cases, we will promptly provide updated information on our website after 8:00 PM on the night prior to our scheduled return.
Traveling Safely in Winter Conditions:
  • It's important to note that for the majority of our journey, we travel on major interstate highways, specifically I-95 and I-87, until the final leg of our trip when we head to the resort.
  • The roads leading to the resort are consistently well-cleared and maintained by winter weather experts.
  • Additionally, our professional charter drivers are highly experienced and trained to handle winter weather conditions with skill and precision.
Response to Weather-Related Conditions:
  • SKI TRAVEL actively collaborates with our bus company and relevant state agencies, including highway patrol and departments of transportation, to assess the suitability of conditions for our continued travel.
  • In the unlikely event that a major highway route becomes impassable, with no alternative roads available to proceed, we will make a precautionary stop at the nearest rest area. At that point, we will carefully evaluate our next steps.
  • If conditions necessitate a delay in our trip to the following day and we are too far from our departure point, we will arrange for our students to be accommodated at a nearby facility. Please note that in such cases, students may be expected to cover any lodging costs associated with this action.
Our Impeccable Record:
  • It's worth noting that since our inception in 1981, we have never encountered a weather-related condition that has required an unscheduled overnight stay while en route to or from Canada.
  • Rest assured, your child's safety and well-being remain our top priority
 

Weather Conditions

Temperatures in the winter in the Québec City area will be up to 20 degrees colder than in the VA, MD, D.C. area. (It is a very dry cold, so it does not seem scold as you might think)The latest weather for Québec City, Québec, Canada CLICK HERETemperature Averages:
  • January range from low 2 degrees to high 20 degrees
  • February range from low 6 degrees to high 24
  • Snow conditions are common on our trips. (great for skiing and riding)
 

Using your Cell Phone in Canada

Yes. Most cell phones work in Québec City. Many cell phone plans now include Canada. (All of North America) PLEASE check with your individual carrier. See update below.

Two important points:

  • TURN DATA ROAMING OFF ON YOUR SMARTPHONE (DATA ROAMING IS EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE)
  • Go online to your carrier’s website (ATT, Verizon, T Mobile etc).
  • Your carrier will offer a very reasonable optional plan for international (Canada) calling and texting.
  • We highly recommend adding a plan if you expect to use your phone while in Canada. These days the plans are very reasonable.

Sample Cell Phone Plan Information 

Update October 2023: Many cell phone plans now include Canada. (All of North America) PLEASE check with your individual carrier.
  • Contact your provider for more specific information during the week leading up to the trip
  • Verizon: $5 per day per phone when traveling to Canada (we will be there for 3 days)
  • AT&T: For some AT&T plans, international plans are already included, for others, it can be $10 a day for full phone usage while in Canada. See more details at their website: https://www.att.com/offers/international-plans/canada.html
  • Sprint: For Sprint customers it can be $2 a day for a Canadian plan or $10 per week.
  • T-Mobile: T-Mobile has many different plans based on your current coverage, follow the link below for information on what would be best for you. https://www.t-mobile.com/optional-services/roaming.html
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