1. Start with where you will spend your days
Distances in Canada are large, so the right hotel is often the one that saves you a drive. For a city break, look for a place within walking distance of the downtown core or close to a rapid-transit station. For a mountain trip, decide whether you want to be in the resort village itself or in a nearby town with more choice. Airport hotels are practical for early flights, but check whether a shuttle runs and at what hours.
2. Compare the total, not just the room rate
- Taxes. Canadian hotels usually advertise the rate before sales taxes. The federal GST is 5%, and provinces add their own taxes (a provincial sales tax, or a combined harmonized tax in some provinces). Some cities and resort areas also add a local accommodation levy.
- Fees. Ask about parking, resort or amenity fees, pet fees and charges for extra guests. In big-city downtowns, overnight parking can be a significant extra.
- Currency. Rates are normally in Canadian dollars; if your card is foreign, expect a conversion step.
3. Read the cancellation and deposit terms
Flexible rates usually cost more. In busy periods, such as ski weeks, summer in the Rockies or major festivals, hotels often require prepayment or a deposit and allow cancellation only up to a set number of days before arrival. Ask the hotel for the terms in writing.
4. Match the facilities to your group
- Families. Look for connecting or family rooms, a pool, and a kitchenette or fridge. Occupancy figures on our pages are indicative; confirm the number of guests with the hotel.
- Pets. “Pet friendly” rarely means unlimited: there are often size limits, a fee and rules about leaving pets alone in the room.
- Electric vehicles. If you drive an EV, ask whether charging is on site and whether it is free for guests.
- Accessibility. If you need a step-free route, a roll-in shower or other adaptations, ask for the specific room type; the general “accessible” label does not say which features are available.
- Breakfast. Check whether it is included, buffet or continental, and what time it starts if you have an early departure.
5. Use stars as a rough guide only
Canada has no single mandatory national star system. The star category shown on Fairmontel is the one recorded in the hotel catalogue. Use it together with the list of facilities, the photos and the location.
6. Questions worth asking the hotel
- What is the total price for my dates including taxes and fees?
- Is parking available, what does it cost, and what is the height limit?
- What is the cancellation deadline, and is a deposit taken?
- What are check-in and check-out times, and can bags be stored?
- Is the room I am booking on a quiet side, and is there any building work nearby?
This guide gives general information and is not a substitute for the hotel's own terms or an official source. Rules, prices and conditions change; confirm before you travel.