Nearly 2,000 credit union professionals will travel to Montreal next week for NAFCU's annual conference, the trade association's largest conference crowd ever. While Canada shares a border with the U.S. and doesn't present a significant culture challenge, there are nonetheless some last minute preparations attendees should complete before heading to the Great White North.
Here are four quick tips for those planning to attend.
1. Prep Your Wallet
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Some merchants in many foreign countries won't accept debit or credit cards without EMV chips. According to NAFCU, the Montreal Metro subway system is one example. If your card issuer has not yet converted, you'll want to plan ahead and have an alternative way to pay for purchases.
In fact, NAFCU suggests exchanging at least a small amount of U.S. dollars into Canadian dollars, even if it's just enough cash to pay for your cab ride from the airport to the hotel.
And, credit union executives, practice what you preach in your member newsletters: Let your card issuers know you'll be traveling out of the country so your Montreal purchases don't activate card fraud protections and cause your card to be declined. And, make photocopies of the front and back of your cards in the event they are lost or stolen.
2. Prep for Customs
Attendees should also make a photocopy of their passport in case it is lost or stolen.
When you arrive in Canada and go through immigration, let them know that you are attending the National Association of Federal Credit Union's (yes, use the formal name, don't just say NAFCU) Annual Conference at the Palais des Congres. Immigration officials should have a record of the event in their system.
Immigration will also ask you where you are staying, so make sure to keep your hotel information handy so you can fill out the required paperwork on the airplane.
You'll also want to allow extra time at the airport when returning home, because you'll go through customs before you leave Canada.
3. Prep Your Mobile Device
If you make or receive a phone call while in Canada, the charges could be very expensive. So, NAFCU recommends you change your cell phone plan to an international data and voice plan. Many mobile carriers will allow you to use the plan for just one month and revert back to your old plan next month.
Online WiFi access will be available in hotel rooms and at the convention center in select areas.
If you'll be using social media to post photos and observations from the conference, be sure to use the conference's official hashtag: #NAFCUAnnual. CU Times will be compiling social media posts into articles that will be featured on our website.
Attendees may also want to download the conference's mobile app, which provides agenda and other key information. The app can be accessed here.
4. Prep for Shopping
While prices in Montreal tend to be more expensive than in other Canadian cities, the exchange rate favors the U.S. dollar. And, Montreal is known for its shopping. If you plan to browse the boutiques, pack an empty duffle bag in your suitcase so you have room for your purchases on the trip back home.
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