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FAQ

How do I make a reservation?

Reservations can be made at the Dancing Bear Inn by telephone (1-877-352-7573), or online.  To make an online reservation or check availability for your desired dates, please complete the reservation form on the “book now” page. Online reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance. Reservations may be booked up to a year in advance via telephone (a 50% deposit will be required for all reservations beyond 6 months).

What are your payment options?

The Dancing Bear Inn accepts cash (Canadian and U.S. only), traveller’s cheques (in Canadian or U.S. dollars), all major credit cards, and Interac Debit cards. Please note that a major credit card is required to book advanced reservations, and a major credit card or cash deposit will be required upon check-in. For more information, see our terms and conditions.

Do you have an age limit?

No. Our hostel is open to travelers of all ages. We have had guests from newborn to age 93, and everywhere in between. Please note that guests under 18 will need to be accompanied by an adult. Further, guests under 12 may only stay in private rooms, not in our dormitories. Guests from 12-18 may stay in dormitories when accompanied by a parent or guardian staying in the same dormitory.

Do I have to be a Hostelling International Member to stay at the Bear?

No. We are open to all travelers. However, HI members will receive significantly discounted rates, as well as a number of other benefits. HI memberships can be purchased at the hostel upon arrival.

Do I need to bring my own bedding?

No. The Dancing Bear In will provide bedding (sheets, blankets, and pillows) for all guests. In fact, like most HI hostels, we ask that you please refrain from bringing your own bedding (e.g., pillows, blankets, sleeping bags) for reasons of hygeine (we like to keep unseemly critters out of the hostel).

Do I need to make a reservation in advance?

It depends. We always accept walk-in guests on a space-available basis. During shoulder seasons (spring and fall), you may be able to stay without a reservation, but during our high season (summer and winter), and always on weekends, we are usually booked well in advance. Please call or check our online booking form for up-to-the-minute availability.

Do you have a place where I can store my belongings?

Yes. We provide storage lockers free of charge for all guests, and we have padlocks available for purchase.  In addition, if you arrive before check-in and your room or bed is not available, we can store your luggage in our office so you can see the sights unencumbered.

Will the staff be able to help me arrange activities & provide recommendations?

Of course. Our friendly all-star staff is here to assist you. We provide full concierge services free of charge for all our guests, including onward booking to other HI Hostels.

Do you have a kitchen? Will I be able to store my food?

Yes and yes. We have a fully stocked kitchen and we provide storage space. We also maintain a selection of staples like, herbs, spices, and cooking oil.

I will be arriving in town very late (after reception is closed). Can I arrange a late check in?

Of course. Just be sure to contact reception during office hours to let them know you will be late.

Why don’t you have any co-ed dorms? I want to be able to stay with my opposite-gender friend/partner.

The vast majority of our female guests (and many of our male guests) overwhelmingly prefer gender-segregated dormitories, and we are happy to accommodate. If you really want to stay with your partner, please consider a private room, as the cost is only slightly more than 2 dormitory beds.