On my three trips to Vancouver from the US in the past 12 months (two with my wife from DFW and once by myself from ORD), it took less than 30 seconds with the agent each way everytime. Waiting in line to reach the agent took a few minutes, but the agents themselves were cursory in their inspection/questions. Of course, the Canadians were more courteous than the Americans (I'm American by the way).
More importantly, now is a GREAT time to visit Canada. When Air Canada ended its strike last week, it slashed prices to woo travelers back AND boosted its frequent flyer miles. Of course, other airlines responded in kind. For example, now you get a 15,000-mile bonus on Canadian if you fly three round-trips with them; that's easier and a better deal than nabbing three Star Alliance partners! My favorite deal personally is the double AAdvantage miles between DFW and either Vancouver, Calgary, or Toronto. To get this bonus, register first with AAdvantage Dial-In:
From the US, call 800 882 8880. At the first prompt, enter 14 then 2* then 4* then your AAdvantage number and star (#*) then your PIN and star (PIN*) then 1* then DFWCA* (33922*) and finally 1*.
American had a similar double miles offer earlier this year on ALL their non-stop flights between the US and Canada. Their trick there was that you only got double miles on your first transborder segment, not the round-trip. Nevertheless, it was a great deal.
But from now until Sept. 30, fares to Canada are shockingly low. Fares from the Eastern US to Vancouver for example are as low as US$154 round-trip including taxes and PFCs!! Unfortunately, I can't go next week, but for example, anyone who books a flight on-line with American (www.aa.com) from the Eastern US to Vancouver via DFW could get there for under US$25 round-trip because of all the bonus miles and the low fare (US$197 RT if you stay at least three days and over Saturday night). The fares aren't much higher through Dec. 16. If you have elite status on American you get to Vancouver practically free!!! I do hope someone takes AAdvantage of this offer (excuse the pun) 'cuz I really wish I could. Let me know if you do, and I'll feel better
