Everyone I've asked has basically said that I shouldn't expect much to be different. I guess I'll find out first hand.
I'm going to try to avoid using my cellphone, and I'm going to turn off the iPhone's data roaming feature while I'm there - since AT&T doesn't serve Canada natively, and their data roaming fees are outrageous. I'll be on the net from my hotel room, at least.
I've already got my passport and Canadian proof of insurance card. Tomorrow's going to be a very long day of travel: I'll leave home at 6 AM for my 11:15 flight. I hope Alberta does a reasonable job of keeping the Trans-Canada Highway open. I also hope National Car Rental gives me something with four wheel drive. They're calling for snow and freezing rain on Sunday and later in the week. Whee.