|
FAQ
Planning
a trip or being part of one can leave you with many questions. We have
prepared these pages filled with answers to many questions for teachers,
parents and students. If you have any questions that are not answered
here, feel free to contact us!
FAQ
for Teachers
1. Do we need a Head chaperone
responsible for our trip?
| We recommend that when organizing a trip you have as much assistance
as possible from others. They may help with fund-raising, communicating
with parents, or collecting money. However, there should be one person
who is selected as the Head chaperon to oversee all the details, and
that person is the one who communicates with the MPO Staff. This ensures
that MPO receives all the necessary information to make your trip
a success. |
2. What is the role of the
Head chaperon?
| The role of the Head chaperon is to be a link between the MPO Staff
and the other teachers or chaperons. This is to avoid having too many
people calling in and only receiving part of the information that
may be crucial to the trip. It is very important that whomever is
selected as the head chaperon must go on the trip. If ever there is
an issue on the trip, the chaperons should communicate with the head
chaperon. Most issues involves the school and should not involve the
MPO staff. But if it does involve the trip, it is important that the
head chaperon be aware of the situation and that he or she communicate
the information to the MPO Staff. Then the head chaperon and the MPO
Staff can find a solution to the problem. |
3. What is the role of the chaperon?
| The role of a chaperon is to supervise the students during the trip,
which includes supervision at the hotel or lodging, while crossing
street, on the bus, getting on and off the bus, walking from one activity
to another, during activities, etc.. The chaperon is responsible for
the discipline of the students and also ensures that the rules and
regulations of the school, teachers and MPO staff is maintained. |
4. What is the role of the
students?
| To enjoy themselves, to learn, experience something new, and always
make sure that they are listening to all the rules and directions
of their chaperons, head chaperon and the MPO Staff. |
5. What would be a good ratio for
Chaperon/Students?
| For students under 12 years of
age, a ratio of 1 chaperone per every 6 to 8 student should suffice,
and for students 12 years and older, one chaperone for every 10
to 12 students. The ratio of chaperones to student may vary, depending
on the behavior of the students or according to your school board
requirements . |
6. What is the role of our MPO Tour
Guide?
| An MPO Tour Guide's function during the trip is to bring the group
to its different venues, to be a consultant to the head chaperon,
to troubleshoot any situation and to make sure the travel part of
the trip runs smoothly. The tour guides are not responsible for any
discipline, safety, and property of the students or participants.
Those must be taken care of by the Head chaperone, chaperones and
proper owners. In some cases, the MPO guide may also act as a local
guide. |
7. Do we need a MPO Tour Guide to
help us during our trip?
| They are very useful if you are planning to have a trip without any
hassle, especially if it is to somewhere you've never been to before,
and they ensure that things run smoothly. They relieve the Head chaperone
from being responsible to check in at each location, they ensure that
you arrive on time, and they make sure you don't get lost. |
8. Do we need a MPO guard at night?
| If your group is very large, if you have older or disruptive students,
or if you want a good night sleep, having an MPO guard at night is
recommended. A night guard is very helpful to ensure that the students
do not get too loud or disturb other guests at the hotel. It also
allows the chaperons to be well rested for the next day. |
9. Up to what point can we modify
our itinerary?
| We ask that all itineraries be finalized within 30 days before the
date of departure. Note that this is only for minor changes. Any major
changes, such as dates, hotels, transportation, should be made a minimum
of 60 days prior to departure date. Changes are subject to availability
and may modify the overall cost of your trip. Your itinerary can not
be modified once you are on the trip. |
10. Do we need insurance and what
kind?
| We strongly recommend that travelers
take an insurance that covers all risks usually associated with
trips, especially one that covers emergency medical fees and/or
one that covers cancellation or delay. We can include insurance
in the price of the trip if requested. Click here for insurance
options. |
11. What do we do if it is raining
and we have an outdoor activity?
| We recommend that you prepare your students for such conditions, and
in the case of extremely bad weather, contact our personnel (or your
MPO Tour Guide if you have one) and we will offer other suggestions.
i.e. walking tour of downtown Montreal replaced by walking tour of
underground mall (27 km long). |
12. Can the trip be accommodated
for students who have special needs and/or are handicapped?
| Yes, given that we are properly notified of the situation of specific
needs beforehand. (see Medical Information Sheet) |
13. Do we need a passport
to travel to the United States from Canada, or from the United States
to Canada?
Travel by Air
Documents You Will Need to Enter the United States
All persons including citizens of the United States traveling
by air between the U.S., Canada (Passport
Canada), Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda will have to present
a passport, Merchant Mariner Document (presented by U.S. citizen
merchant mariners traveling on official business) or NEXUS Card,
NEXUS enrollment is limited to citizens of the United States and
Canada, and lawful permanent residents of the United States and
Canada. Children will be required to present their own passport.
Beginning June 1, 2009, ages 16 and older will be required to
present documents from one of the options below when entering
the United States at land or sea ports of entry. Children under
may present an original or copy of his or her birth certificate,
a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Naturalization Certificate.
One of the following documents may be presented to prove both
identity and citizenship:
- U.S. Passport;
- U.S. Passport Card;*
- Trusted Traveler Cards (NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST);*
- State issued Enhanced Driver’s License (when available
this secure driver’s license will denote identity and
citizenship);*
- Enhanced Tribal Cards (when available);*
- U.S. Military identification with Military Travel Orders;
- U.S. Merchant Marine document;
- Form I-872 American Indian Card.
See
samples documents click here.
Frequent Land Border Crossers: To expedite processing
into the United States, U.S. Customs and Border Protection recommends
using one of the above asterisked documents.
We are not responsible for any changes to this information.
For updated or further information on United States policy, check
directly with the US State Department at www.state.gov.
Travel by Land
On June 1, 2009, U.S. citizens returning home
from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean or Bermuda, by land or sea,
will be required to present one of the travel documents listed
below. Many of these documents are already available, and obtaining
one now will ensure that you are ready on June 1, 2009,
when they will be required.
U.S. Passport – This is
an internationally recognized travel document that verifies a
person’s identity and nationality. It is accepted for travel
by air, land and sea.
U.S. Passport Card – This
is a new, limited-use travel document that fits in your wallet
and costs less than a U.S. Passport. It is only valid for travel
by land and sea.
Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)
– Several states and Canadian provinces/territories are
issuing this driver’s license or identification document
that denotes identity and citizenship. It is specifically designed
for cross-border travel into the U.S. by land or sea.
Trusted Traveler Program Cards
– NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST enrollment cards can speed your
entry into the U.S. and are issued only to pre-approved, low-risk
travelers. The cards are valid for use at land or sea; the NEXUS
card can be used in airports with a NEXUS kiosk.
Note: Beginning June
1, 2009, U.S. and Canadian citizen children under age 16 arriving
by land or sea from contiguous territory may also present an original
or copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular Report of
Birth Abroad, a Naturalization Certificate, or a Canadian Citizenship
Card.
Beginning June 1, 2009, U.S. and Canadian citizen
children under age 19 arriving by land or sea from contiguous
territory and traveling with a school group, religious group,
social or cultural organization, or sports team, may also present
an original or copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular
Report of Birth Abroad, a Naturalization Certificate, or a Canadian
Citizenship Card.
The group should be prepared to present a letter
on organizational letterhead with the following information:
- The name of the group and supervising adult;
- A list of the children on the trip, and the primary address,
phone number, date of birth, place of birth, and name of at
least one parent or legal guardian for each child; and
- A written and signed statement of the supervising adult certifying
that he or she has obtained parental or legal guardian consent
for each participating child.
See
samples documents click here.
We are not responsible for any changes to this
information. For updated or further information on United States
policy, check directly with the US State Department at www.state.gov. |
14. What type of information should
a Student carry?
| Aside from the documents previously specified, a driver's license,
birth certificate or school I.D.'s would be ideal. Also medical bracelets
and documents (if applicable) should be brought along. |
15. What should the Student bring
as a travel bag?
| Duffel bag, sports bag, backpack, or suitcase with wheels on to put
in clothes and other items should suffice. Something the students
would be comfortable carrying, i.e. a backpack, during portions of
the trip done on foot, would also be useful. |
16. What should the Student bring
on the trip?
| The key to successful packing is
to dress in layers. The top priorities are to keep warm/cool and
dry while being comfortable. During the Spring and Fall seasons
the temperature may vary from 7°C (45°F) to 16°C (61°F).
Those seasons are also known as the "rainy season". By
bringing the appropriate outerwear, it will help to stay warm and
dry during the trip. In the Summer season, the temperature may vary
from 24°C (75°F) to 32°C (90°F). During the Winter
season, the temperature may vary from -13°C (9°F) to -25°C
(-13°F). Bringing appropriate winter gear is essential to being
safe and having fun while on tour. With this in mind, here is a
suggested list of what to pack. |
17. Should a student be allowed
to bring valuable or sentimental items?
| We discourage students from bringing either, not only for fear of
theft, but they might also lose such items, forget it in the airport
or hotel room (which has occurred much more frequently than theft). |
18. How many times should a Student
call home while on the trip?
| Once a day is ideal, either before leaving the hotel, or when you
return in the evening. |
19. What is the legal drinking age
in different regions?
| The legal drinking age in the province of Quebec is 18 years, 19 in
the province of Ontario, and 21 in the United States. |
20. What type of transportation
do you use?
| The transportation that we commonly use are luxury coaches. Trips
can be also be planned with airfare, trains or school buses (if requested). |
21. Should we bring videos or DVDs?
| Yes, bring both videos and DVDs that will cover the length of the
trip by bus is recommended (i.e. 1 video for the ride to Ottawa from
Montreal, another video for the way back, etc.). Bus companies are
currently updating their VCR's to DVD players, but not all of them
have been modified yet. Therefore, we suggest to bring both types. |
22. How much extra money does a
Student need to bring (not counting meals)?
| Not more than $10 per day unless student wishes to bring more for
specific souvenirs. |
23. What type of meals are included?
| Breakfast and suppers are the most common meals included in the trip.
We include meals that are balanced and of very good quality. We do
our best to make sure that all students can find something that they
like, so most meals have a choice for the main course (such as a meat
(chicken or beef), pasta, or sandwich style). If lunches are included,
it could be food court type of meal and if so, it will be indicated
on the itinerary. We usually include meals that come with an appetizer,
drink, entree and a dessert ,or we will try to include buffet meals
since they offer the most choice. We offer some fancy meals and dinner
theater meals as well if you are interested in something different. |
24. What is the average cost for
a Student to purchase a meal when not included on the itinerary?
| Normally, the costs will be around $4-$7 for breakfast, $7-$10 for
lunch, and $10-$15 for supper. |
25. A vegetarian student and/or
one with allergies; will he/she receive meals needed at the same price?
| If 30 days before departure the number of participants needing certain
meals is sent to us on the Medical Information Sheet, they will be
included without extra fees. |
26. Should we give some time for
the Students to shop?
| We do recommend that you include some designated shopping time for
your students. As for how much time, around 1 hour for a day trip,
3-5 hours for trips that are 2 days or longer. If you visit multiple
cities, we suggest 2 hours per city. |
27. Do we need emergency funds and
how much?
| The main reasons such funds would be required would be if a student
requires medical attention, or if students are missing crucial supplies
that you need to buy for them. Most trips do not require any such
funds. However, if you would like to prepare an emergency fund, we
suggest up to $500 for trips 3 days or longer or for a 1 day trip,
up to $100. Some hospitals do take credit cards. |
28. Is there a way for parents to
reach their child in case of an emergency?
| Yes. During the day the parents can call the MPO toll free number
and the MPO staff will track down the student and relay the message.
During the evening, the parents can call the hotel directly to reach
their child. |
29. Are any vaccinations necessary?
| Visit the Health
Canada web site to find all the necessary information. |
30. How do I access the Client Section?
| Once the itinerary is signed, you will be receiving an MPO Travel
Information Kit which will include your password that will allow you
access to the Client Section. |
BACK TO TOP
FAQ
for Parents
1. What is the role of the Chaperon?
| The role of a chaperon is to supervise
the students during the trip, which includes supervision at the
hotel or lodging, while crossing street, on the bus, getting on
and off the bus, walking from one activity to another, during activities,
etc.. The chaperon is responsible for the discipline of the students
and also ensures that the rules and regulations of the school, teachers
and MPO staff is maintained. |
2. What is the role of the head chaperon?
The role of the head chaperon is
to be a link between the MPO Staff and the other chaperons. If ever
there is an issue on the trip, the chaperons should communicate
with the head chaperon. Most issues involves the school and should
not involve the MPO staff. But if it does involve
the trip, it is important that the head chaperon be aware of the
situation and that he or she communicate the information to the
MPO Staff. Then the head chaperon and the MPO Staff can find a solution
to the problem. |
3. Can the trip be accommodated for children who
have special needs and/or are handicapped?
| Yes, given that we are properly
notified of the situation of specific needs beforehand. |
4. Do we need insurance and what kind?
| We strongly recommend that travelers
take an insurance that covers all risks usually associated with
trips, especially one that covers emergency medical fees, and/or
one that covers cancellation or delay. We can include insurance
in the cost of the trip if requested. |
5. Do we need a passport to travel to the United
States from Canada, or from the United States to Canada?
Travel by Air
Documents You Will Need to Enter the United States
All persons including citizens of the United States traveling
by air between the U.S., Canada (Passport
Canada), Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda will have to present
a passport, Merchant Mariner Document (presented by U.S. citizen
merchant mariners traveling on official business) or NEXUS Card,
NEXUS enrollment is limited to citizens of the United States and
Canada, and lawful permanent residents of the United States and
Canada. Children will be required to present their own passport.
Beginning June 1, 2009, ages 16 and older will be required to
present documents from one of the options below when entering
the United States at land or sea ports of entry. Children under
may present an original or copy of his or her birth certificate,
a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Naturalization Certificate.
One of the following documents may be presented to prove both
identity and citizenship:
- U.S. Passport;
- U.S. Passport Card;*
- Trusted Traveler Cards (NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST);*
- State issued Enhanced Driver’s License (when available
this secure driver’s license will denote identity and
citizenship);*
- Enhanced Tribal Cards (when available);*
- U.S. Military identification with Military Travel Orders;
- U.S. Merchant Marine document;
- Form I-872 American Indian Card.
See
samples documents click here.
Frequent Land Border Crossers: To expedite processing
into the United States, U.S. Customs and Border Protection recommends
using one of the above asterisked documents.
We are not responsible for any changes to this information.
For updated or further information on United States policy, check
directly with the US State Department at www.state.gov.
Travel by Land
On June 1, 2009, U.S. citizens returning home
from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean or Bermuda, by land or sea,
will be required to present one of the travel documents listed
below. Many of these documents are already available, and obtaining
one now will ensure that you are ready on June 1, 2009,
when they will be required.
U.S. Passport – This is
an internationally recognized travel document that verifies a
person’s identity and nationality. It is accepted for travel
by air, land and sea.
U.S. Passport Card – This
is a new, limited-use travel document that fits in your wallet
and costs less than a U.S. Passport. It is only valid for travel
by land and sea.
Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL)
– Several states and Canadian provinces/territories are
issuing this driver’s license or identification document
that denotes identity and citizenship. It is specifically designed
for cross-border travel into the U.S. by land or sea.
Trusted Traveler Program Cards
– NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST enrollment cards can speed your
entry into the U.S. and are issued only to pre-approved, low-risk
travelers. The cards are valid for use at land or sea; the NEXUS
card can be used in airports with a NEXUS kiosk.
Note: Beginning June
1, 2009, U.S. and Canadian citizen children under age 16 arriving
by land or sea from contiguous territory may also present an original
or copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular Report of
Birth Abroad, a Naturalization Certificate, or a Canadian Citizenship
Card.
Beginning June 1, 2009, U.S. and Canadian citizen
children under age 19 arriving by land or sea from contiguous
territory and traveling with a school group, religious group,
social or cultural organization, or sports team, may also present
an original or copy of his or her birth certificate, a Consular
Report of Birth Abroad, a Naturalization Certificate, or a Canadian
Citizenship Card.
The group should be prepared to present a letter
on organizational letterhead with the following information:
- The name of the group and supervising adult;
- A list of the children on the trip, and the primary address,
phone number, date of birth, place of birth, and name of at
least one parent or legal guardian for each child; and
- A written and signed statement of the supervising adult certifying
that he or she has obtained parental or legal guardian consent
for each participating child.
See
samples documents click here.
We are not responsible for any changes to this
information. For updated or further information on United States
policy, check directly with the US State Department at www.state.gov.
|
6. What type of information should my child carry?
| Aside from the documents previously
specified, a driver's license, birth certificate or school I.D.'s
would be ideal. Also medical bracelets and documents (if applicable)
should be brought along. |
7. What should my child bring as a travel bag?
| Duffel bag, sports bag, backpack,
or suitcase with wheels on to put clothes and other items should
suffice. Something your child would be comfortable carrying, i.e.
a backpack, during portions of the trip done on foot, would also
be useful. |
8. What should my child bring on the trip?
| The key to successful packing is
to dress in layers. The top priorities are to keep warm/cool and
dry while being comfortable. During the Spring and Fall seasons
the temperature may vary from 7°C (45°F) to 16°C (61°F).
Those seasons are also known as the "rainy season". By
bringing the appropriate outerwear, it will help to stay warm and
dry during the trip. In the Summer season, the temperature may vary
from 24°C (75°F) to 32°C (90°F). During the Winter
season, the temperature may vary from -13°C (9°F) to -25°C
(-13°F). Bringing appropriate winter gear is essential to being
safe and having fun while on tour. With this in mind, click here
for a complete list of items
to bring on the trip. |
9. Should my child be allowed to bring valuable
or sentimental items?
| We discourage students from bringing either, not only for fear of
theft, but they might also lose such items, forget it in the airport
or hotel room (which has occurred much more frequently than theft). |
10. How many times should a Student call home while
on the trip?
| Once a day is ideal, either before leaving the hotel, or when you
return in the evening. |
11. What is the legal drinking age in different
regions?
| The legal drinking age in the province of Quebec is 18 years, 19 in
the province of Ontario, and 21 in the United States. |
12. What type of transportation do you use?
| The transportation that we commonly use are luxury coaches. Trips
can be also be planned with airfare, trains or school buses (if requested). |
13. How much extra money does my child need to bring
(not counting meals)?
| Not more than $10 per day unless student wishes to bring more for
specific souvenirs. |
14. What type of meals are included?
| Breakfast and suppers are the most common meals included in the trip.
We include meals that are balanced and of very good quality. We do
our best to make sure that all students can find something that they
like, so most meals have a choice for the main course (such as a meat
(chicken or beef), pasta, or sandwich style). If lunches are included,
it could be food court type of meal and if so, it will be indicated
on the itinerary. We usually include meals that come with an appetizer,
drink, entree and a dessert ,or we will try to include buffet meals
since they offer the most choice. We offer some fancy meals and dinner
theater meals as well if you are interested in something different. |
15. What is the average cost for a child to purchase
a meal when not included on the itinerary?
| Normally, the costs will be around $4-$7 for breakfast, $7-$10 for
lunch, and $10-$15 for supper. |
16. A vegetarian student and/or one with allergies;
will he/she receive meals needed at the same price?
| If 30 days before departure the number of participants needing certain
meals is sent to us on the Medical Information Sheet, they will be
included without extra fees. |
17. Will there be a way for parents to reach their
child in case of an emergency?
| Yes. During the day parents can call the MPO toll free number and
the MPO staff will track down the student and relay the message. During
the evening, parents can call the hotel directly to reach their child. |
18. Are any vaccinations necessary?
| Visit the Health
Canada web site to find all the necessary information. |
BACK TO TOP
FAQ for Students
1. Can the trip be accommodated
for children who have special needs and/or are handicapped?
| Yes, given that we are properly notified of the situation of specific
needs beforehand. |
2. What type of information
should I carry?
| A driver's license, birth certificate or school I.D.'s would be ideal.
Also medical bracelets and documents (if applicable) should be brought
along. |
3. What should I as a travel bag?
| Duffel bag, sports bag, backpack, or suitcase with wheels on to
put clothes and other items should suffice. Something you would be
comfortable carrying, i.e. a backpack, during portions of the trip
done on foot, would also be useful. |
4. What should I bring on the trip?
| The key to successful packing is
to dress in layers. The top priorities are to keep warm/cool and
dry while being comfortable. During the Spring and Fall seasons
the temperature may vary from 7°C (45°F) to 16°C (61°F).
Those seasons are also known as the "rainy season". By
bringing the appropriate outerwear, it will help to stay warm and
dry during the trip. In the Summer season, the temperature may vary
from 24°C (75°F) to 32°C (90°F). During the Winter
season, the temperature may vary from -13°C (9°F) to -25°C
(-13°F). Bringing appropriate winter gear is essential to being
safe and having fun while on tour. With this in mind, click here
for a complete list of items
to bring on the trip. |
5. What type of transportation do
you use?
| The transportation that we commonly use are luxury coaches. Trips
can be planned with airfare, trains or school buses (if requested). |
6. How many times should I call
home while on the trip?
| Once a day is ideal, either before leaving the hotel, or when you
return in the evening. |
7. How much extra money do I need
to bring (not counting meals)?
| Not more than $10 per day unless you wish to bring more for specific
souvenirs. |
8. What type of meals are included?
| Breakfast and suppers are the most common meals included in the trip.
We include meals that are balanced and of very good quality. We do
our best to make sure that all students can find something that they
like, so most meals have a choice for the main course (such as a meat
(chicken or beef), pasta, or sandwich style). If lunches are included,
it could be food court type of meal and if so, it will be indicated
on the itinerary. We usually include meals that come with an appetizer,
drink, entree and a dessert ,or we will try to include buffet meals
since they offer the most choice. We offer some fancy meals and dinner
theater meals as well if you are interested in something different. |
9. What is the average cost to purchase
a meal when not included on the itinerary?
| Normally, the costs will be around $4-$7 for breakfast, $7-$10 for
lunch, and $10-$15 for supper. |
10. If I am vegetarian and/or have
allergies; will I receive meals needed at the same price?
| If you notify your teacher 30 days before the trip, we will include
the meals without extra fees. |
11. Am I able to choose my
friends to stay in the same room with me?
| Your teacher (or Head Chaperone) has the final say on who gets to
stay in what room. |
12. Are any vaccinations necessary?
| Visit the Health
Canada web site to find all the necessary information. |
BACK TO TOP
|
|
