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TRANS-CANADA EXPERIENCE  



The Canadian is one of VIA Rail's proudest services, offering the ultimate Canada train trip. It travels between Toronto and Vancouver, crossing the scenic lakes of northern Ontario, touring the western plains of the Prairies and the splendid Canadian Rockies, and finishing its journey on the Pacific coast of British Columbia. Crossing from one coast to the other is sure to amaze!

Trans-Canada Experience Brochure (PDF)

 
ITINERARY (9 DAYS/8 NIGHTS)

DAY ONE: TORONTO
Travel from your home city to Toronto.
Overnight in Toronto at The Fairmont Royal York.

DAY TWO: TORONTO
This morning enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Toronto by bus.
The afternoon is at leisure.
Overnight in Toronto at The Fairmont Royal York.

DAY THREE-DAY SEVEN: THE CANADIAN
Tour Canada's most breathtaking expanses in a voyage spanning five provinces, from Ontario to the sparkling Pacific Coast of British Columbia.

DAY SEVEN: VANCOUVER
Morning arrival in Vancouver.
Overnight in Vancouver at the Sheraton Wall Centre.

DAY EIGHT: VANCOUVER
This morning enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Vancouver by bus.
The afternoon is at leisure.
Overnight in Vancouver at the Sheraton Wall Centre.

DAY NINE: VANCOUVER
Flight from Vancouver to your home city.
TORONTO
Fairmont Royal York
From the moment you walk into The Fairmont Royal York lobby, you know you’re in one of the world’s grand hotels. Each of the 1,365 rooms is a continuation of the luxurious comfort and convenience that has made this landmark hotel famous. The hotel is just steps away from an exciting mix of activities and attractions.

VANCOUVER
Sheraton Wall Centre
Step outside the doors and into the celebrated sites of the city. Take a Sea Wall Walking Tour with family and friends and create memories at Stanley Park and the Vancouver Art Gallery, just around the block.
Your package offers you comfortable accommodation, superb meals and impeccable service aboard the Canadian, which runs three times per week between Toronto, Jasper and Vancouver. It's an unforgettable trip for the lucky few who venture on this Canadian tour.

From your armchair, you can admire immense forests studded with sparkling lakes. At dinner, your table is surrounded by prairies stretching to the horizon, the wheat swaying in the wind. Take afternoon tea in the middle of Jasper National Park amid the spectacular scenery of the Canadian Rockies. Tour Canada's most breathtaking expanses in a voyage spanning 5 provinces, from Ontario to the sparkling Pacific Coast of British Columbia. What's more, you're doing it in the luxury and comfort of superbly refurbished Art Deco rail cars from the 1950s.

With the other passengers in Touring Class, you have exclusive use of the sleeping car, a haven of peace and comfort. You can choose between a berth or a single, double or triple bedroom.

From the moment you enter your quarters, a warm and comfortable atmosphere envelops you, the soft sheen of stainless steel reflecting the pinks, greens and blues of the decor and the landscapes rolling by the huge picture windows. Big, welcoming armchairs beckon, and little touches make everything perfect - thick, fluffy towels, tourist information, everything you need is at hand.

At the end of the evening, or earlier if you wish, your room will be transformed into a cosy bedroom by our attentive on-board crew. Lights are dimmed, reading lamps readied, pillows fluffed, soft blankets carefully turned down. Perhaps a relaxing shower before bed? It's only a few steps away.

And as the gentle rocking of the train lulls you to sleep, you'll discover the particular pleasure of train travel by moonlight.

Click here for information about the double bedroom
Park Car: Panoramas and Elegance
The Park car, at the rear of the train, is a whole new world, a peaceful environment combining elegance and comfort. Its three separate salons, reserved for the exclusive use of Touring Class passengers, each have their particular charm. You'll want to sit back and relax, curl up with a good book, or perhaps chat with other travellers who have come from all over the world to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience.

And in the dome, the upper observation deck, you'll understand the magic that only train travel can offer, with 360-degree views of impressive landscapes.

Can there be a better way to see the Canadian Rockies? Bring your camera and take home some dazzling souvenirs. Even amateur photographers can't help but come away with masterpieces, especially when the train slows down for photo opportunities. You'll want to come back to the Park Car later on to savour coffee or an after-dinner drink by the light of the moon and all those stars... Below, in the curved 1950s-style bar, you'll be served aperitifs and a choice of fine domestic and imported wines. In the Bullet Lounge, with its huge wrap-around windows, you can settle back in stylish armchairs with a cup of afternoon tea and a good book. A variety of newspapers and magazines are available. Pass the time by getting to know other passengers. Once again, you have captivating views of the countryside unrolling behind the train.

Skyline Car
The Skyline car is your exclusive entertainment centre. Climb up to the observation dome to enjoy 360-degree views or a refreshing beverage in the lounge below. Watch a video about your destination, grab a book from the library rack or have fun making new friends during scheduled activities. Ask your Service attendant for details. Off-peak service may vary.

Lounge
The lounge is one of the privileges you enjoy in Touring Class. When you arrive at the Toronto station, go straight to the elegant lounge. Pick up your tickets, then relax in a roomy armchair until departure. Soft drinks and the day's newspapers are available - all free of charge, naturally. You will be notified when the time comes to board the train (you are entitled to priority boarding).

Special Touches
Our cordial, courteous personnel are always at your service. As a passenger in Touring Class, you are entitled to some special touches such as a shower kit (towel, shampoo, hair conditioner and soap) and checked baggage. In Toronto, Jasper and Vancouver, you enjoy not only priority boarding, but also a special "Welcome Aboard!" reception with hot appetizers and sparkling wine.

Dining
Your package includes all meals as appropriate to your journey.

The dining car is elegant but not pretentious, polished yet casual. Passengers find that its style and ambience combine with the spectacular views outside to create a special mood - whether at breakfast, lunch or any of the three evening sittings (sunset, twilight or 9:00 PM moonlight service). On-board dining is an experience not to be missed, with delightful, freshly prepared meals in the best railway tradition. China, silverware and linen complement an enticing menu and an all-Canadian wine list.
PACKAGE INCLUDES:

• Train or airfare from your home city to Toronto (if required)
• Private transfer from Toronto airport to your hotel (if required)
• 2 nights hotel in Toronto at The Fairmont Royal York (if required)
• Breakfast daily at the Fairmont Royal York
• Guided sightseeing tour of Toronto by bus
• 4 nights in Touring Class onboard the Canadian
• Meals onboard the Canadian
• 2 nights hotel in Vancouver at the Sheraton Wall Centre
• Breakfast daily at the Sheraton Wall Centre
• Guided sightseeing tour of Vancouver by bus
• Private transfer from your hotel to Vancouver airport
• Airfare from Vancouver to your home city
• Telephone assistance
Are meals included?
All your meals are included on the Canadian.
Breakfast is included in Toronto and Vancouver.

What is the baggage policy?
Check all the baggage you won't need during the trip. You can check a maximum of six articles, three free of charge. We recommend that you restrict yourself to one or two items of carry-on baggage. Please note that bedrooms in the sleeping car can be bolted from inside, but there is no way for you to lock the door in your absence.

Is alcohol served?
Yes. Alcohol is available for purchase in the dining room and Skyline car.

What is the smoking policy?
The Canadian offers an entirely smoke-free experience. The non-smoking policy extends to all cars, vestibules, washrooms, lounges and private spaces. However, those who wish to smoke will be able to do so during regular station stops at Capreol, Hornepayne, Sioux Lookout, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Jasper and Kamloops.

Are there any activities for children?
Yes. Games, activities and video showings for children are organized in the Skyline car every morning from 7:30 to 10:00. A start to the day that kids - and their parents - greatly appreciate!

Is this an escorted tour?
No. This is an independent tour with all of your travel arrangements professionally managed by TruExperiences Tours.
DATES
Package starts every week on Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday.

PRICES
TORONTO DEPARTURE (Does Not Include Hotel In Toronto)
January-April 30, 2010:
$1,965.00 CAD per person, double occupancy plus 5% GST
May 1-October 15, 2010:
$2,900.00 CAD per person, double occupancy plus 5% GST

MONTREAL DEPARTURE (Does Not Include Hotel In Toronto)
January-April 30, 2010:
$2,055.00 CAD per person, double occupancy plus 5% GST
May 1-October 15, 2010:
$2,990.00 CAD per person, double occupancy plus 5% GST

NEW YORK CITY DEPARTURE
January-April 30, 2010:
$2,505.00 CAD per person, double occupancy plus taxes of $170.00
May 1-October 15, 2010:
$3,479.00 CAD per person, double occupancy plus taxes of $196.00

CHICAGO DEPARTURE
January-April 30, 2010:
$2,505.00 CAD per person, double occupancy plus taxes of $170.00
May 1-October 15, 2010:
$3,479.00 CAD per person, double occupancy plus taxes of $196.00


LAND ONLY (Does Not Include Flights)
January-April 30, 2010:
$1,980.00 CAD per person, double occupancy plus 5% GST
May 1-October 15, 2010:
$2,929.00 CAD per person, double occupancy plus 5% GST

Prices are per person, based on double occupancy.
Prices may be higher on peak dates such as holidays.
Please phone us for departures from other cities.

Jasper
A stopover in Jasper is a great way to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Canadian Rockies.

Alaska Cruise
We can arrange a cruise to Alaska departing from Vancouver. Ask us about terrific specials on all 2010 cruises.