Visitor Information in New Brunswick
Visitor Information

Visitor Information

Everything you NEED TO KNOW.

(And weren’t afraid to ask.)

It could be argued that the upside of being a tourist in a new place is also the downside to being a tourist in a new place. After all, while the allure of not actually knowing anyone can create an aura of excitement, at the same time, it can also create an aura of “Help! Who can I ask?” when something is on your mind. Fear not, travelling friend. This list of frequently asked questions was compiled after years of hosting visitors just like you. If you have a question that’s not on this list, by all means contact us.

In case of a police or medical emergency, what number do I dial?

Dial 9-1-1 for emergency service anywhere in the province.

Are hospitals well marked?

Absolutely. On all road signs, hospitals are marked by a white letter “H” on a green background.

 We’ve never been to New Brunswick before, and are unsure of what to pack in terms of weather appropriateness. Any tips?

You can access today’s weather here right now! (Please note: You will be redirected to another site.) However, typically our summer requires lightweight clothing such as bathing suit, shorts and sandals. New Brunswick boasts the hottest summers in the country with an average daytime temperature of 23.3˚C (73.9˚F). So pack sunscreen too! Our fall requires items like a lighter jacket or an outdoor sweater, slacks and walking shoes – since you’re apt to want to stroll past the array of our dramatic fall colours. By far (no, really: by far!) our snowiest season, our winter requires a heavy coat, scarf, mittens, toque and boots. If you have yet to experience a New Brunswick winter, you have yet to truly experience winter at all. Our spring requires items like a lighter jacket or an outdoor sweater, slacks and rubber boots – for some good-old, down-home fiddleheading.

I am visiting from another country, where can I have my currency exchanged? 

Foreign currency can be exchanged at any local bank or credit union, at the daily going exchange rate. Please note: the rate of exchange can fluctuate daily.

 

Of course I plan to do some shopping. When are stores typically open?

While hours vary from store to store, for the most part shopping is available seven days a week in our cities and many of our communities. 

What kind of sales tax is implemented in New Brunswick?

The sales tax is called the Harmonized Sales Tax (or, HST) and is applied at a single rate of 13% to a base of goods and services. (This percentage is made up of 5% federal tax and 8% provincial tax.) 

What kind of regulations are there when it comes to customs’ limitations and duty-free purchases?

For all customs’ inquiries, call 1-800-668-4747, from within Canada. Or 1-902-432-5608, from outside of Canada.  

I have heard so much about New Brunswick’s incredible cuisine. What specifically should I be on the look out to try?

For a full listing of this province’s must-try dining establishments, visit DiningPick.com (Please note: You will be redirected to their site.) That said, local delicacies abound! Lobster, scallops, oysters, clams and Atlantic salmon are available in full abundance. As are our provincial vegetable, the oh-so versatile fiddlehead. And, don’t be afraid to try the salty sea snack, dulce. (Remember: Looks can be deceiving. And this reddish-black mound of seaweed is surprisingly tasty!) Acadian entrées like poutine râpée (grated raw and mashed potatoes wrapped around fresh pork), fricot (chicken and potato stew) and râpure (potato and salted pork) can only be surpassed by Acadian desserts: Poutine à trou (apple pastries), tarte au sucre (sugar pie), or pets-de-sœur (a cinnamon pastry, which translates into something a little less sweet: nun farts).

Will my pet feel welcome in New Brunswick?

Totally. In fact, here is a link to veterinarians in case your little friend requires medical attention, and SPCA shelters in case your little friend gets lost. For a story that will ease your mind further, read what one canine visitor had to say.

I plan to do some cycling while I am visiting. Are helmets mandatory?

Yes, certified safety helmets are required by law, when operating a bicycle or a motorcycle in New Brunswick.

We are planning to rent a car. What highways and byways information might be relevant?

Seatbelts are mandatory for drivers and passengers.  Children under nine years of age, under 36 kg (79 Ib.) and 1.5 m (4 ft. 9 in.) must be in an infant carrier or approved child restraint. Speed limits are posted in kilometres. (Please note: The transporting of radar detectors in vehicles is prohibited whether the device is in use and connected or not.) Highway signs contain service tabs, with the following three essential services: Gas, within three km (two mi.); food, within four km (2.5 mi.), accommodations, within five km (three mi.). Other services or attractions are found within 10 km (six mi.) of the exit. As well, blue and white standardized signs feature facility names and universal symbols to show you the way to adventures, attractions and services. (After all, we don’t want you to miss a single extraordinary moment!) 

What is New Brunswick’s area code? And when must it be used?

The area code is 506. And it must be dialed for long distance calls made outside the province as well as certain areas within the province. To be certain, check the local directory.

What is the official language of New Brunswick?

Actually, both English and French are included in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms as the province’s two official languages. This makes New Brunswick Canada’s only officially bilingual province. New Brunswick has a constitutional obligation to provide government services in both languages.

What is the legal drinking age in New Brunswick?

The legal drinking age is 19 years. Bottled liquor – including spirits, wine and beer is sold in government stores. As well, there are various private stores throughout the province that sell liquor as agencies for the NB Liquor Corporation.

As a coastal province, where is New Brunswick’s main port of call?

With over 2,000 km (1,243 mi.) of impressive coastline, the province boasts three ports of call. That said, the main port for large cruise lines is located in the charming seaside city of Saint John.

Does the province adhere to specific entry requirements?

All criteria for entry can be found online at Passport Canada. (Please note: You will be redirected to their site.)

Where can I find general information pertaining to things like New Brunswick’s population, industry and government?

General provincial information about topics of that nature can be located online via the Government of New Brunswick. (Please note: You will be redirected to their site.)

What are the province’s Statutory Holidays?

Statutory Holidays in New Brunswick include: 
New Year's Day - January 1 
Good Friday - First Friday after the full moon on or after March 21
Easter Monday - First Monday after Good Friday 
Victoria Day - Third Monday in May 
Canada Day - July 1 
New Brunswick Day - First Monday in August 
Labour Day - First Monday in September 
Thanksgiving Day - Second Monday in October 
Remembrance Day - November 11 
Christmas Day - December 25 
Boxing Day - December 26

What time is it in New Brunswick? Or, more specifically, what time zone is it in?

New Brunswick is in the Atlantic Standard Time zone. We also participate in Daylight Savings Time, which means that on the second Saturday in March, the clock goes ahead one hour – until the first Saturday in November when the clock goes back one hour.

While we are in New Brunswick, how can we find Visitor Information Centres?

You can access a complete list of Provincial Visitor Information Centres and Municipal Visitor Information Centres right here!

How can I book a New Brunswick vacation?

In a word: Easily! In fact, one such way to do so is via our booking partner, Maxxim. Go ahead: Book your vacation now! (Please note: You will be redirected to another site.)

Be in every extraordinary moment

We’re with you all the way. Call our number, 1-800-561-0123 (or pack it with you) for great insider tips on more unforgettable moments in New Brunswick.