Going on my first real Solo Trip

[Horsetuna]

And as some of you know, I'm going to Gravekeeper's dreaded place... Area code 867, in Nunavut, Canada.

I want to go up there to see the Total Solar Eclipse happening in Cambridge Bay.

So I've taken planes before, no big deal... but I've never had to book hotels, arrange cabs or anything before. Always, someone would meet me and then I'd stay with them.

Do I just call up with my CC number and ask to book a room? How far ahead should I book? Any advice on travelling? I've gone international before, not sure if I'm going to need a visa if its' going to stay in the country...

[Boozy]

No passport is required for travel within Canada. You will need a driver's license or other photo ID with your name on it to board. Just make sure the name on that ID matches the name on the plane ticket exactly.

If you know where you want to stay, you can call and book the hotel directly. They'll need your credit card number to reserve, but you'll be able to pay in cash if that's what you prefer when the time comes to check out.

If you're really nervous about it, I'd plan your trip through a travel agent if at all possible.

[Bandit]

If you're coming from the US and flying, you'll need a valid US passport to get back INTO the US.

And from a quick Google map wander, you *really* should book through a travel agent. Looks like the only way in is by air, and the accommodations would be pretty limited in that remote a community. Book early.

*edit* - http://www.cambridgebayhotel.com/ - probably the only one in town.

B

[Horsetuna]

I'm not flying from the states. I'm starting and ending in Canada.

I'm curious Bandit why I should go through a travel agent for-sure?

[Bandit]

In-country travel is definitely easier - didn't know that you were a fellow GWN citizen, eh? :)

The reasons *I* would go through a travel agent for this sort of trip:

1) Remote destination
2) Multiple connections on almost every route up there
3) Hotel status - not a big selection.

I've done a heck of a lot of travel in my time for both work and pleasure. 90% of the time for the simple one or two hop trips it has been faster and easier to just do it myself. For the complex or remote destination trips (i.e. around North America in 30 days, or Churchill via VIA), a travel agent did save the bacon a couple of times when trains or planes were delayed/canceled and alternate arrangements were needed in a hurry.


B

[Horsetuna]

In-country travel is definitely easier - didn't know that you were a fellow GWN citizen, eh? :)

The reasons *I* would go through a travel agent for this sort of trip:

1) Remote destination
2) Multiple connections on almost every route up there
3) Hotel status - not a big selection.

B

Hmm. I didnt notice any connections save one in Yellowknife on the way back.. I found one for first air that goes fro Edmonton right to Cambridge bay, and I've done that sort of connection before...

i'll see what there is avaible for good Travel Agents. I do remember having to use one last time cause I couldnt' buy a ticket at the airport.

After all, I'd hate to be stranded in 876. I'd have to call Kari to get me a hotel :lol:

[Bandit]

After all, I'd hate to be stranded in 876. I'd have to call Kari to get me a hotel :lol:

And GK for some kamoo pants and a hat! :lol:

B

[Horsetuna]

well, its probably best to 'blend in' so I dont get eaten by the huskies.

ETA: I got in touch with one of the councilmen up there. His name? Stephen King.

However, they're arranging things for those coming to see the eclipse, so this may be a bit easier than I thought if they are going to be ensuring there are places to stay, to eat, and airport things.