Briefing Guide 2018

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

BRIEFING GUIDE 2018

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

Table of Contents Introduction ...... 3 Map & Itinerary ...... 3 Packing for your trip ...... 4 Luggage Restrictions ...... 6 Communication ...... 7 Before You Depart ...... 7 Travel Insurance ...... 8 Suggested Ottawa Hotel ...... 12 About Iqaluit ...... 13 Responsible Tourism ...... 13 Wildlife Code of Ethics ...... 15 FAQ ...... 16 Packing Checklist ...... 18 Pre-Trip Checklist ...... 19

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

Dear Fellow Adventurer,

Thank you for choosing to take part in an Arctic Kingdom adventure. We are excited that you have selected us to guide you through this exceptional and unique part of the world. Client-focused, we are committed to provide you a memory of a lifetime – experienced in comfort and style. With years of experience guiding in the most remote regions on the planet, we are passionate about Canada’s Polar Region and look forward to having you experience the wonder of the north.

Our team is dedicated to ensure every moment of your journey to be memorable – and that you touch, see, hear, smell and taste ‘the last great wilderness on our planet’ and meet the remarkable people who call the Arctic home.

To start you on your adventure, we have prepared this guide personally for you. It includes helpful information on what you can expect on your trip, what to pack, and general tips for your travel. If you have any further questions about your upcoming trip, please do not hesitate to contact Client Services at [email protected].

Whether you are a seasoned traveller or embarking on your first trip, we look forward to sharing this very special part of the world.

Let the adventure begin!

Sincerely,

Graham Dickson Chief Expedition Leader

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

Introduction Experience the Arctic wilderness by snowmobile on this 260 km (155 mile) journey from Iqaluit to Kimmirut. Travel along traditional Inuit routes across the ice of Frobisher Bay and Soper River, a Canadian Heritage River. Feel the exhilaration as you drive over the sea ice! Map & Itinerary Please remember that this itinerary is a guideline and may change due to weather and unexpected conditions.

Day 1

Travel to Iqaluit, NU from Ottawa, ON. Upon arrival, you will be met by your Arctic Kingdom Host and transferred to your hotel, the Frobisher Inn.

Day 2

After an early breakfast and safety briefing, gear up for your 130 km (80 mile) drive towards Kimmirut. Snowmobile along the sea ice of Frobisher Bay, possibly passing the polynya, open water that never freezes. Leave the sea ice following the Soper River overland trail. Pass through the only forest on Baffin Island - the “Giant Willow Tree Forest”, before reaching Kimmirut.

Spend the night in a local Kimmirut hotel.

Day 3

Start your drive back to Iqaluit in the morning. Follow the Soper River to Kattanalik Park, over the ice of Frobisher Bay back to Iqaluit.

Spend the night in Iqaluit.

Day 4

After breakfast, enjoy a guided tour of Iqaluit and the nearby community of Apex. Relax in our passenger van while we visit a variety of Iqaluit’s attractions and highlights, including the Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum, Unikkaarvik Visitor Centre, the Anglican Church, the original Hudson's Bay Company Trading Post, and Apex (the original community just outside of Iqaluit).

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

Included

 Services of Arctic Kingdom expedition staff  Round-trip flight to Iqaluit from Ottawa  2 nights’ accommodation at the Frobisher Inn (or equivalent hotel)  1 night accommodation at a Kimmirut hotel  Iqaluit town tour  Fully guided program  Meals: 2 lunches and snacks  Return transfers in Iqaluit Not Included

 Accommodation or meals in Ottawa  Breakfasts and dinners, and 2 lunches  Tips, gratuities, personal expenses  Travel, medical and evacuation insurance  Additional costs associated with weather and/or layovers in Iqaluit or Ottawa

Packing for your trip Clothing

Clothing is key to your comfort in the Arctic. For your trip, we recommend dressing in layers. You can always add or subtract the layers according to your needs.

1) Base Layer – This layer will insulate and keep moisture away from your skin. Traditionally, the best base layers were made from synthetic materials, but now there are some very good products that use merino wool. The general rule is to avoid cotton as it actually draws warmth from your body and can contribute to hypothermia. There are many brands of long underwear on the market and some are better than others. Generally, you get what you pay for in this gear category. Good long underwear is the key to a successful layering system.

2) Insulating Mid-Layer – Options for this layer include fleece tops, jackets and pants. Synthetics such as fleece have very good insulating properties, dry very quickly, and keep you relatively warm even when wet. While the prevailing winter conditions mean cold temperatures, it is most often dry. Wool and down are well suited and are also highly recommended. It is not uncommon to have a couple of mid- layers. A packable down jacket is a wonderful item that has multiple uses and takes up a minimal amount of space.

3) Outer Layer (for protection against cold, wind & snow) – Many snowmobile enthusiasts wish to bring their own snowmobile jackets and pants. However, snowmobiling in the Arctic provides its

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend own unique challenges. In addition to your snowmobile jacket, the outer layer should protect you from the elements, should allow air to circulate, and allow excess moisture to escape. For dry conditions, a good quality breathable (uncoated) down insulated parka and pants is important as well. The amount of warmth provided by down is expressed as fill-power (or loft power) and is a measure of fluffiness. It is expressed as the number of cubic inches an ounce of down displaces. Fill-power of 600 to 700 good, and 750 to 850 excellent. Higher fill-power articles provide more warmth for the same weigh. Please note fill- power of 500 to 550 may not be sufficient.

4) Footwear – it is important to have the right footwear for your expedition. We recommend:

• Insulated winter boots and optional heat packets • Comfortable shoes or booties for inside the hotel

Don’t forget to pack:

• Camera • Weather-appropriate clothing including a winter parka, snow pants, and winter hat and gloves • Comfortable boots

Rental Clothing

We recommend that anyone travelling to the Arctic dresses in insulating layers. Regular ski jackets and pants are not suitable for the changing Arctic climate.

With almost two decades of experience in all types of Arctic weather, we have seen what works and what doesn’t. Arctic Kingdom has assembled a top-of-the-line clothing package that will enhance your Arctic experience and allow you to enjoy your Arctic expedition in comfort, no matter what Mother Nature brings.

All of our staff have depended on the same clothing package for years of Arctic adventures, so you can rest assured you are getting the best options available. We realize that good quality Arctic-worthy equipment is expensive to purchase all at once, and may not be necessary for a one-time Arctic adventure.

Our Arctic Polar Clothing Rental Package that will ensure you are comfortable, warm, and dry for your Arctic expedition.

Please email [email protected], or refer to our clothing rental information package for more details.

Camera Information

Your cameras should have no issues functioning in the Arctic. Full-size tripods are popular and you may consider bringing rain/snow covers as conditions are unpredictable. We also recommend bringing extra memory cards, batteries (and chargers). Many guests also bring a laptop for storing their images.

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

Your camera gear deserves special attention. Before you leave home, make sure it is insured for any accidental damage as well as loss or theft. You may also consider bringing heavy duty plastic bags to wrap your gear in the event of extreme weather.

Luggage

We suggest that you use a durable suitcase or duffel bag for clothing, and a well-padded camera backpack or hard case (e.g. pelican case) for waterproofing and easy transportation of your belongings. Baggage limitations and rules can vary according to each airline. Please ensure you are aware of the different airline baggage policies.

DO NOT BRING/ NOT PERMITTED:

Guns: Your guides are trained to deal with animal encounters. In Canada it is illegal to carry a gun without a firearms license.

Drugs/Alcohol: Iqaluit has restrictive laws concerning the possession and consumption of alcohol. Do not pack alcohol in your checked luggage. Alcohol is available for purchase at several licensed establishments in Iqaluit.

Northern Airlines

Please note: Airlines are subject to change based on circumstances that are out of our control.

Medical Priorities

While a rare occurrence, there is a possibility of being bumped from a northern flight due to medical priority. Medical care may not always be available in northern communities and in the case of an emergency, a patient may need to be transported by air. It's important to be flexible when travelling to the North and understand that Arctic Kingdom has no control over such situations. Luggage Restrictions PLEASE NOTE THAT THE AIRLINE HAS STRICT BAGGAGE RESTRICTIONS

First Air

First Air currently allows one piece of checked luggage per person, maximum 50 lbs. each.

This is subject to change at any time, so please check with the airline directly and refer to their website for detailed information: https://firstair.ca/flying/baggage/

If you have any questions about luggage restrictions, please contact [email protected]

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

Communication Wi-Fi may be available at some hotels, but is not guaranteed. It is best to plan ahead and not need access to the internet once you have begun your trip. There is cellphone service in Iqaluit, but depending on your service provider a connection is not guaranteed.

In emergency situations, if family members need to contact you while on expedition they can call:

Toll Free: 888-737-6818 Extension 106

North America: +1 416-322-7066 Extension 106.

This extension is forwarded to Arctic Kingdom personnel who are in regular communication with Expedition Leaders and will pass on your message in a timely manner. Before You Depart Required documents for trips within Canada

Please ensure that you have all travel documents required to visit Canada. A passport is required for all non-Canadian citizens, valid for at least six months after your return date home. Visas are NOT required for US citizens. For guests for all other countries, please consult your local Canadian consulate to obtain any required visas, or the recently-launched Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for non-visa travellers. Details about the eTA are available at www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta.asp.

Electronic Travel Authorization

On November 21, 2016, the Government of Canada put into effect a new travel authorization for air called the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Anyone travelling to or through Canada by air that does not require a visa is required to obtain an eTA. Exceptions include American citizens and visitors with a valid visa.

When and how to obtain an eTA

It is best to get your eTA before you book your flight to Canada. You may not be able to fly without it. Getting your eTA is a simple, inexpensive, online process, which takes just a few minutes to complete. Visit www.Canada.ca/eTA to get started.

To apply, all you need is your passport, a credit card, an email address and access to the Internet. You will enter basic personal information like your name, passport number, email address, answer a few simple questions and submit your application. In most cases, the eTA will be granted within minutes of applying.

The process is completely safe and secure via Government of Canada servers.

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

Costs for the eTA

The fee to obtain the eTA is $7 CAD – and the eTA is valid for up five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. This means you can fly to Canada without reapplying so long as your eTA and passport remain valid.

For more information about the eTA please visit www.Canada.ca/eTA.

Health and personal medications

If you are taking prescribed medication, be sure to bring a well-labeled, sufficient supply with you. It is recommended to bring at least an extra two week’s supply in the event of unforeseen delay. If your supply runs out, it will be difficult, if not impossible to refill.

Medical Care – your responsibilities

Our experienced guides are trained in advanced wilderness first aid and carry a standard first aid kit. Our trips are often to remote areas of the world where medical care is unavailable or limited. In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, it may take hours or days to organize a medical evacuation. It is essential that persons with any medical considerations inform us well before taking part on one of our trips. It is recommended that trip participants should bring their own personal first aid kit to deal with every day ailments such as headaches, motion sickness, blisters, sore throats, etc. Any participant taking prescription medication should bring an additional week's supply.

Special Diets

Arctic Kingdom is pleased to accommodate special diets and dietary restrictions. Please note these must be confirmed at time of booking to ensure sufficient time to procure any required items. Travel Insurance Medical Insurance Arctic Kingdom does not carry health, life or injury insurance for trip participants. It is your responsibility to ensure your medical coverage covers you for life and health care risks while on our trips, and in addition should provide transport to your home country or province (for Canadians traveling on our Canadian trips).

All participants will be required to provide proof of travel medical insurance that includes sufficient emergency evacuation coverage. Please note, this is due 120 days prior to departure date.

In the event of a medical emergency where a patient must receive care of a doctor as soon as possible, almost all of our trips would require a private charter aircraft to complete the evacuation. Depending on the location and where the closest hospital is located, the expense could be very costly. It is imperative that you check with your insurance provider to ensure you are covered for the location you are visiting. Arctic Kingdom will not pay for any expenses incurred for medical reasons.

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

If you do not have your own sufficient evacuation insurance, we are pleased to recommend our partner, Global Rescue, which offers superior service in remote locations. For details and to obtain any insurance please visit https://ss.globalrescue.com/partner/arctickingdom/.

Trip Cancellation Insurance This type of insurance provides coverage starting the day you purchase your policy up to the day you leave on your trip. Should you have to cancel your trip due to unexpected or unforeseen covered risks such as illness, the death of a family member, etc., trip cancellation insurance can help cover non-refundable pre- paid travel expenses. It is important to research what risks your insurance policy covers.

Trip Interruption Insurance This type of insurance provides coverage while you are on your trip if you experience unexpected travel interruptions due to a covered risk such as mechanical failure, weather conditions, tour operator cancellation, etc. Again, it is important to know which risks are covered.

Insurance can also be purchased for trip delays; lost, stolen or damaged luggage, including damage done to expensive camera equipment; and should be considered by each trip participant to determine if it is the right choice for them.

IN LIGHT OF OUR CANCELLATION POLICY AND THE EXTREME ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH WE TRAVEL, IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED THAT ALL TRIP PARTICIPANTS PURCHASE TRIP CANCELLATION AND TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE. ON VERY LIMITED OCCASIONS, ARCTIC KINGDOM HAS HAD TO CANCEL TRIPS AFTER THEY HAVE STARTED DUE TO UNFORSEEN ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS.

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

Trip Notes

Climate Iqaluit, Nunavut, has a polar tundra climate. Temperatures during this season range from -19°C (-2°F) to - 9°C (15°F). Light to moderate snow is possible on some days in April.

Daylight Hours The length of day rapidly increases throughout the month of April. Throughout April, you can expect between 13 and 16 hours of daylight.

Spirit of Adventure Arctic Kingdom trips are not intended to have set itineraries or sights to be seen crossed off in a short period of time. We believe in taking things as they come, relaxing and enjoying opportunities, be it a sunny or foggy day. Appreciate where you are in the moment and fall into the lifestyle of the local people.

Getting Here and Home It is the responsibility of the traveller to make travel arrangements between their point of origin and Ottawa. Weather in the Arctic can be unpredictable. For participants travelling home on reduced-fare airline tickets, avoid continuing your journey home on the same day as you return to Ottawa; any deviation from the ticketed itinerary will result in a penalty regardless of the cause. We suggest that you do not plan on having any important meetings or events the day after your trip end date. We recommend planning on “buffer time” to account for any possible delays in getting home from the Arctic.

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

Contingency Plans in the Event of Weather Delays In rare cases, the weather has caused delays or cancellations in the transportation or planned activity of an itinerary. Every incident is treated as it occurs and may be handled differently each time in order to choose the best result for all parties involved.

ARCTIC KINGDOM WILL NOT OFFER GUESTS A REFUND IN THE EVENT OF TRIP CANCELLATION OR INTERRUPTION. ARCTIC KINGDOM WILL NOT OFFER GUESTS COMPENSATION IN THE EVENT OF A DELAY.

Arctic Kingdom will make every effort to assist passengers with re-booking hotels or flights, but this will be at the cost of the passengers, and Arctic Kingdom strongly recommends that all participants contact their insurance provider prior to changing any reservations. ARCTIC KINGDOM ADVISES ALL PARTICIPANTS TO BOOK FLEXIBLE AIRLINE TICKETS ALONG WITH CANCELLATION AND INTERRUPTION INSURANCE to assist with additional airline change fees. We advise all passengers to have flexible travel arrangements upon trip completion if delays arise. Arctic Kingdom will not be held responsible for any change/cancellations fees due to weather related delays or any other delays arising from force majeure.

Flight Delays Flight delays due to weather are more common in the Arctic than in the southern latitudes and passengers must remain flexible as there is little we can do to control it. Arctic Kingdom is very experienced in handling flight delays due to weather and we will work with you to ensure the logistics run as smoothly as possible.

Flight Delays before Departing Ottawa If your flight is cancelled before departing Ottawa and will not take place until the following day, First Air will automatically re-book your flights for the next available flight on your behalf and Arctic Kingdom will email you your new itinerary.

You are responsible for securing your own accommodation until the next available flight.

Any extra costs incurred, such as accommodation, transportation and meals, are the responsibility of the trip participant

Flight Delays from Iqaluit On your return, if your flight is cancelled for the day, your Expedition Leader will arrange accommodation for you until the next available flight. Your flight will automatically be re-booked on your behalf and Arctic Kingdom will email you your itinerary. Any extra costs incurred, such as accommodation, transportation and meals, are the responsibility of the trip participant.

Please understand that accommodations can be limited in Arctic communities, which can range from bed and breakfasts to 4-star hotels. Having the spirit of adventure with flexibility and understanding of northern communities is paramount to making the best of a situation that although may not be frequent, may happen.

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

Communication regarding delays will generally be done through the contact email we have been using to communicate with you prior to the trip or through a local representative. If neither of these options are available to you, please ensure you call our emergency/after hours contact number: 1-888-737-6818 extension 106

This is a toll-free number from anywhere in Canada. If you do not reach anyone on your first attempt, ensure you leave a voicemail including your name and the number to return your call. Suggested Ottawa Hotel Days Inn Ottawa Airport

NOTE: If you book with Days Inn, tell them you are on an Arctic Kingdom trip, for a special discounted rate.

The Days Inn Ottawa Airport is located minutes from the Macdonald Cartier International Airport, and only 10 minutes from most tourist attractions.

The Days Inn Ottawa Airport offers the charm of a country setting with the convenience of location. It is in close proximity to the Ottawa Website: http://www.daysinnottawas.com/ International Airport as well as downtown Address: 366 Hunt Club Road, Ottawa, Ontario Ottawa. Facilities include an indoor pool, Canada K1V 1C1 exercise room, hot tub, business centre, free Phone: +1 613 739 7555 continental breakfast, and free parking on site. Location: 1.6km from Ottawa Airport. Golf courses and restaurants are within a few Call the hotel to arrange a free hotel shuttle. minutes’ drive. Days Inn Ottawa Airport is proud to be a 100% smoke-free hotel!

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

About Iqaluit Iqaluit is the dynamic capital city of Nunavut. Is the largest and fastest-growing community in the territory, and 60 per cent of inhabitants are Inuit. Iqaluit is located on Baffin Island at the northern end of Frobisher Bay, near the mouth of the Sylvia Grinnell River. Iqaluit is in close proximity to beautiful parklands featuring a range of landscapes, mountains, rivers, waterfalls and ancient Thule sites.

Iqaluit, which means “place of many fish” in Inuktitut, offers residents and visitors a variety of exciting activities, as well as many cultural experiences. The friendly local people of Iqaluit — the “Iqalumiut” — enjoy going out on the land to enjoy outdoor activities including fishing and ATVing. Responsible Tourism In collaboration with the community, it is our desire that your experience will contribute to the economic base of this remote region. Tourism and film production can be a real boon to local communities, providing income, positive cultural exchanges, and a financial incentive to protect their natural environment.

At Arctic Kingdom, we have a ‘total approach’ to responsible tourism. Everything, from the way we plan and operate our trips to our company practices, is geared toward making a positive impact on the regions we visit. Arctic Kingdom trips are designed to allow a high degree of economic benefit to the local communities; we hire local guides and local drivers, purchase locally (whenever possible), eat local food, and use local services, ensuring that as much money as possible is retained within the local economy and the host communities. We are continually reassessing our trips, trying at all times to ensure that they are socially, economically, and environmentally sound.

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

Being a responsible traveller

• It is important to be respectful of the people, environment and cultures we encounter during our trips. • Always pay attention to and follow the instructions given by your trip leader or Inuit guide. • Leave no lasting signs of your visit. You must not leave anything, including any litter, behind. • Leave the landscape as it is. Do not take anything with you and do not attempt to touch or rearrange objects – they might be cultural remains. Leave stones, bones, antlers, driftwood and other items where they are. • Do not engrave on rocks or buildings and do not build cairns, rearrange stones or in any other way leave visible signs of your visit. • Watch where you set foot, in order to protect the flora and vegetation and avoid path-making. Avoid stepping on flowers or plant beds if at all possible. • Avoid disturbing animals and birds. If close to animals and nesting birds, avoid making loud noises and keep conversation low and calm. • In many towns and settlements, there will be a significant number of Arctic dogs. These are working dogs and not pet animals. They can be dangerous to strangers. Never approach or attempt to pet or feed dogs without permission or supervision from the dog handler. • Rabies has been detected in Arctic regions. Some animals, such as the arctic fox, arctic dogs and arctic wolves are potential carriers of rabies. Never touch live or dead wild animals. • Staff members may be carrying firearms and other bear deterrents in areas where polar bears could be encountered. The staff is trained in firearm handling, but firearms can be dangerous. Do not make any attempt to touch or hold firearms. • In areas with polar bears, bears can be encountered anywhere or anytime. They are potentially extremely dangerous to humans. Never stray from your group and the leaders carrying equipment to protect you. If you catch site of a polar bear, stay calm and immediately inform your guide. Never approach them. Never leave food anywhere in an attempt to lure polar bears and always follow your leader’s instruction. • When visiting foreign countries and cultures, guests may find things very different from home. It is important not to judge other cultures based on one’s own sense of reality, norms and values; and we invite you to understand that cultures are qualitatively different. Be mindful of comments made regarding cultural practices and lifestyles. • Visits from tourists can be just as exciting for locals as they are for guests. Greet your new friends with a smile, or a wave if you do not share the same language. It will go a long way! • Respect people’s privacy. Keep a good distance from private houses and never glance or photograph through private windows. • Do not visit graveyards or other areas of religious or cultural significance without permission. • Ask before you photograph. A hesitation means NO. • Do not give children candy or sweet treats. • You are encouraged to buy local souvenirs and products, but be aware of the legalities of importing and transporting purchases into other countries. • Never barter or import banned substances to a community.

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

• Remember that you are part of a group and other trip participants may have different reasons for taking the same trip. Be respectful of the needs and wishes of others and expect the same in return. Our trip leaders do their very best to provide a superior experience and meet everyone’s expectations.

Thank you for helping us conduct respectful, environmentally friendly and safe tourism! Wildlife Code of Ethics As wildlife viewers, our goal is to watch animals behaving in natural ways in their natural habitats. We respect the needs of wild animals for space, natural vegetation, and ecological community. We recognize our responsibility to know the consequences of wildlife viewing.

As guiding principles we agree:

• To view or photograph from a distance that respects the needs of wildlife, using proper equipment such as binoculars, spotting scopes and telephoto lenses. • Before approaching wildlife we will first learn the spatial needs of each species and to recognize their alarm signals and behaviors. • To avoid noises or actions that might stress wildlife or cause animals to waste energy in unnecessary flight. To be patient, remembering that we are guests in wildlife habitat. • To be especially sensitive to animals that are breeding, nesting, brooding or raising young, because parents and young are especially vulnerable at these times. We will learn the places and times to step back from these situations.

Viewing Wildlife Safely

• Wildlife viewers should always be concerned about their own safety as well as that of the wildlife. • Animals are unpredictable. Do not approach wildlife, large or small. View from a safe distance. • Feeding wildlife is illegal and is a safety hazard to both people and wildlife. • Bears are always unpredictable and dangerous. Become informed on safety in bear country. • In marine habitats, be aware of many safety issues. Waves, tides, and tidal rips are hazards of particular concern.

DO NOT disturb, move, feed or touch any wildlife.

ALWAYS FOLLOW the instructions of your local guide and trip leader. They are the most knowledgeable in animal behavior and are there to keep you safe and ensure we have as little impact as possible.

Thank you!

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

FAQ

1. When do I book my flight? When booking your flights, be sure to book your arrival into Ottawa on the day before Day 1 of your trip itinerary and to depart home from Ottawa on the day after Day 4 of your trip itinerary.

2. Where do I pick up my clothing rental? Please pick up your clothing rental package at the front desk of your Ottawa-area hotel. Kindly ask the front desk for your clothing rental bags when you check in, as the rental equipment will not be sent to your room. Please try on and confirm all rental equipment at the hotel prior to flying to Iqaluit. Please refer to instructions of who to contact in your rental kit in the event of an issue.

3. Where do I return my clothing rental? Please drop off your entire clothing rental package in the duffle bag you received it in at the front desk of your gateway hotel in Ottawa. Please let the staff know that you are dropping this package off for Arctic Kingdom. Alternatively, if you are not returning to your Ottawa hotel, you can drop the package off at PARS 2000, located on the Arrivals floor next to Baggage Carousel 5 at the Ottawa airport (open 24-hours a day). Similarly, please inform the staff that you are dropping off a bag for Arctic Kingdom.

4. You need cash in Nunavut. Where can I get cash money? There are ATMs available in Ottawa and in Iqaluit.

5. What would I need cash for? Any meals other than lunch on Day 2 and 3 are not included. You may also require cash for any incidentals, such as batteries, toiletries, gifts, tips, local art, or any other purchases made in Iqaluit.

6. Can I charge my electronics? Yes, you will be able to charge your electronics at the hotel. Power provided is 120VAC/60Hz using North American standard plug outlets. If your electronics do not have a North American standard plug, please make sure you bring the proper plug adapter.

7. Should I give gratuities? Tipping is an appreciated, although not compulsory. If you had a great experience and wish to express your thanks, a gratuity is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. The amount you tip Arctic Kingdom staff is completely at your discretion, however, a general guideline of 4 to 5 per cent of your trip fare (excluding airfare) per guest is the average that previous guests have provided.

As most of our field staff live in remote areas of the Arctic, it is preferable that tips are paid in cash at the camp that you are staying. Limited cash is available in the northern communities; therefore we recommend obtaining Canadian currency before you depart or in your gateway city. Our Expedition Leader will collect the tips and distribute it amongst the field staff.

Alternatively, you may provide a cheque or wire transfer for tips if it is more convenient for you, but it may cause delays in field staff receiving the tips from our head office.

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

Cheques should be payable to: Arctic Kingdom Polar Expeditions Inc.

Wire transfer instructions:

Beneficiary: Arctic Kingdom Polar Expeditions Inc. Bank: Royal Bank of Canada Institution # 003 Transit # 07212 Account # 1010784 Bank Address: 1635 Avenue Road, Toronto, ON M5M 3X8 Canada SWIFT Number: ROYCCAT2 IMPORTANT: Please include client name and trip name

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

Packing Checklist = included in optional rental package

BASE LAYER □ long sleeve tops (2) ADDITIONAL ITEMS □ long pants (2) □ money and credit cards □ long underwear (multiple pairs)* □ polarized sunglasses □ wool or synthetic socks (multiple pairs) □ strap for your sunglasses lip protection (SPF 30 minimum) □ glove or mitt liners □ □ personal toiletries (toothbrush, * Bringing a third set of long underwear toothpaste, etc.) gives you an extra set for sleeping □ body lotion/ hand lotion

□ throat lozenges INSULATING/MID-LAYER □ dry shampoo (optional) □ fleece top and pant □ personal mirror □ fleece jacket and/or packable down jacket □ chemical hand and foot warmers □ pants (2) □ disposable moist towels (wet wipes) □ prescription medicine (with extra for 2 □ windproof gloves or mitts  weeks) □ comfortable clothing for around town □ personal first aid kit OUTER LAYER □ ear plugs □ water resistant, insulated parka  □ binoculars □ travel plug adapter (North American insulated snow pants □  standard) □ waterproof and insulated mitts  □ plastic bags and/or Ziploc bags carrying □ windproof, winter hat  things

□ balaclava  CAMERA GEAR – Optional □ snow goggles □ camera(s) □ lens(es) FOOTWEAR □ spare batteries and charger □ insulated boots (-70 Celsius rating) □ flash drive(s) / external hard drive □ comfortable shoes / boots for hotel, disc reader, accessory cables, and power yurts, lodge □ cords □ shower shoes or sandals □ laptop □ rain/snow cover Important Note: In consideration of the staff and other well-padded camera bag or hard case guests, please leave behind cosmetics, deodorants and □ perfumes that contain a strong scent. (e.g. pelican case) □ tripod

Arctic Snowmobile Weekend

Pre-Trip Checklist

Upon Payment of Deposit:

 If you have not completed your Guest Information form upon booking, please sign and email to [email protected]

 Obtain appropriate travel insurance (medical, including emergency evacuation coverage, trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage, etc.)

 Ensure required travel documents are up to date: passport valid for at least six months after your return date home, tourist visas, eTA, if required, etc.

120 Days Prior to Trip Departure:

 Pay final trip fees

 Complete, sign and submit medical profile form to [email protected]

 Submit proof of mandatory evacuation insurance to [email protected]

 Complete and submit clothing rental agreement form to [email protected] , if applicable

60 Days Prior to Trip Departure:

 Provide arrival and departure flight details to/from Ottawa to [email protected]

 Read briefing guide to familiarize yourself with all your trip details and ensure you have all of the items required on your packing list.

Before Departure:

 Review trip itinerary to ensure you are familiar with the logistics of getting to your trip starting point as well as what to do in case of weather delays

 Review baggage allowances for your specific flights and ensure you are compliant

 Provide Arctic Kingdom’s emergency contact information to friends and family

After Departure:

 Relax, enjoy your surroundings and take advantage of every unique opportunity presented to you!