Student FAQs

  • 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

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

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.
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
 
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

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.
 
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
  • 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 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.
 

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.
Old Québec City, the most awesome, historical, exciting pedestrian village ever awaits... right outside your door! Great restaurants, dessert places, toboggan sledding, shops where you can buy clothing and souvenirs, movie theatre, free Ice skating near the city gate, are just a few of the activities to after a day of skiing or snowboarding. And everything is right outside your door.FOR MORE INFO: See the What to Do? activities page CLICK HERETo Experience Old Québec, the Chateau Frontenac and the Toboggan RunSEE THESE VIDEOS CLICK HERE Quebec City SnowQuebec City Giant Toboggan by Night
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
 
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  

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)
 
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 
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
  • 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.

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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