An Elegant Trip Aboard a Classic Canadian Train
Source: Provided by VIA Rail
Posted: 05/12/09 10:43AM
Filed Under: VIA Rail
Three times a week, a long, sleek silver train leaves Toronto’s Union Station, taking its lucky passengers on one of the world’s most famous rail trips.
Departing Toronto late in the evening, The Canadian sets out on a four-day journey across Ontario and the West to its final destination, Vancouver. For the ultimate in comfort, savvy travellers book a private bedroom in Silver and Blue Class—a treat that’s more affordable than one might think, especially for travellers over 60. (When one senior pays full fare, his or her companion gets a 75-percent discount.) The double bedrooms in Silver and Blue Class are marvels of ingenuity. Hooks near the sink easily store toiletries. Next to each berth are a reading light and a small shelf (perfect for a book or reading glasses). Each double bedroom even has a compact ensuite shower.
Many travellers are delighted to discover the elegance of the dining car, where gourmet meals and wines are served on fine china as varied landscapes unfold beyond the windows: the rocky lakeshores of the Canadian Shield, the sweeping golden fields of the Prairies, the undulating foothills of Alberta and, of course, the dramatic Rockies.
To take in the stunning scenery, many passengers head to the Park car, marvelling at the views from the domed observation area and sharing aperitifs with new friends in the Mural Lounge. For those who enjoy more privacy, every morning a steward converts the berths in each double bedroom into comfortable seats, making the compartments the perfect place to share the journey with a travelling companion.
Vancouver is a suitably spectacular destination for this train trip of a lifetime. Pacific Central Station in this vibrant coastal city is a quick cab or SkyTrain ride from the heart of downtown, meaning passengers can reach their hotels quickly and easily. Once they arrive and settle in, the choice of activities is endless.
Outdoorsy types make a beeline for Stanley Park, where they can stroll through rose gardens and past totem poles with the city skyline and the Coast Mountains as an unforgettable backdrop. Another popular destination is the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which sways 230 feet above a forested canyon north of the central city.
Shoppers head to the bustling shops and galleries of Granville Island or the independent designers’ boutiques along South Main Street. Culture lovers, meanwhile, can check out the latest exhibits at the Vancouver Art Gallery or take in a performance by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.
To sample the region’s rich Asian-Canadian heritage, visitors head to the suburb of Richmond to see ornate Buddhist temples and explore the Aberdeen Centre, an upscale mall that’s home to a number of Asian-based retailers (the fabulous food court alone is worth a visit).
Those are just a few of the delights of visiting a city that The Economist magazine has chosen several times as the world’s best place to live. It’s the perfect finale for a memorable train trip.
For great vacation ideas and deals, click here to visit VIARail.ca.
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