Travel
About Toronto
Toronto is the largest city in Canada and the provincial capital of Ontario, located on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario. With over 2.5 million residents, it is the fifth most populous municipality in North America. Toronto is at the heart of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and is part of a densely populated region in Southern Ontario known as the Golden Horseshoe, which is home to 8.1 million residents and has approximately 25% of Canada's population. As Canada's economic capital, Toronto is considered a global city and is one of the top financial centers in the world. Because of the city's low crime rates, clean environment, high standard of living, and friendly attitude to diversity, Toronto is consistently rated as one of the world's most livable cities.
Arriving in Toronto
Toronto Pearson International Airport, also known as Lester B. Pearson International Airport or simply Toronto Pearson (IATA: YYZ, CAO: CYYZ), is a major international airport serving Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is situated 27 km (17 mi) northwest of downtown Toronto. There are no lockers available at the airport. Storage facilities are available at the Travel Stores on the Departures Level of both terminals. The Travel Stores also provide luggage strapping and fax services. Wireless Internet (WiFi) is available in both terminals. Internet connectivity is also available in both terminals from Bell Canada Public Internet Kiosks. The GTAA provides wheelchairs and electric carts for passengers requiring assistance as they travel throughout the airport. Advance arrangement of assistance is recommended with both your airline and with the Airport Customer Assistance Program. Currency exchange services are available in both terminals. For further information, please visit www.gtaa.com/en/home/
Passport and Visa Requirements
Visitors to Toronto, including US residents, must hold a valid passport to enter and exit the country. All travelers are encouraged to visit the Canada Border Services' website at www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca for information on arriving in Canada, entry requirements, publications and forms, and security.
Transportation Options from Toronto Pearson International Airport to Sheraton Centre Toronto
Airport Shuttle
The service between Toronto Pearson International Airport and Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel operates every 20-30 minutes. The length of the trip to Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel is about one hour, but could differ, depending on traffic. This shuttle stops at several hotels upon arrival into downtown Toronto. To request a fare quote or to make a reservation, please visit the Toronto Airport Express website (http://torontoairportexpress.hudsonltd.net). The one-way fare is approximately $20. The first shuttle departs at 4:55 am and the last shuttle departs at 00:55 am. Terminal 1 pick-up station - Post B; Terminal 3 pick-up station - Post 25
Taxi
Rates are predetermined based on the time and distance to your destination within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The average oneway fare from Toronto Pearson International Airport to Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel is $56. A $12 premium will be added to carry excess baggage in accordance with the "GTAA Rules and Regulations." Credit cards are accepted as a method of payment.
Limousine Service
Global Alliance Worldwide Chauffeured Services Ltd.
Phone: 1-800-267-0122 or 1-416-410-3555 x 1 (24 Hour Dispatch)
E-mail: reserve@global-alliance.ca
Arrival Rates to Downtown Toronto:
Sedan - $80.00 plus 23% Service Fee/Fuel = $98.40 plus 13% HST = $111.19 Canadian per transfer
6 Passenger Limo - $260.00 plus 23% Service Fee/Fuel = $319.80 plus 13% HST = $361.37 Canadian per transfer
Please let the reservationist know that you are with the IMAST meeting. Please provide your full name, mailing address, cell phone number, credit card number, arrival date, airline and flight #, and the names of passengers that will be travelling with you. You may also book your return transportation as well at this time.
Language
Canada's official languages are English and French, but English is the dominant language among the country's citizens.
Currency
The Canadian dollar (CAD) is the official currency. The official exchange rate fluctuates constantly.
Climate
Toronto's climate is moderate for Canada owing to its southerly location within the country. It has a humid continental climate with warm, humid summers. While cold in the winter, temperatures in July range from 64° F / 18° C to 80° F / 26° C.