We always recommend arriving in Ottawa at least the day before the event begins. We will be planning some additional activities on the Sunday following the Symposium.
Les Suites is now fully booked during the Linux Symposium. There are some spaces in rooms to share if you're still looking for a space please email ajh.
The Airport is only about 20 minutes from the Congress Centre. The #97 bus will take you right to the Congress Centre and around the corner from Les Suites for only $2.50, depart at the Mackenzie King Bridge. The hotel shuttle runs regularly from the Airport for $14CAD and a Taxi to Les Suites is about $25.
The Government of Canada website lists the full official requirements on what is required to visit Canada.
For most countries a passport is sufficient. We recommend Americans obtain passports for this visit to ensure a comfortable experience at the border.