SAMPLE ITINERARY

Day 1: Our Adventure Begins

Scheduled afternoon flight from London Heathrow to Toronto. On arrival, we take the UP Express into the centre of the city. This airport rail link transports us to Union Station in 25 minutes. Stay 3 nights in downtown Toronto, opposite the station.

Accommodation - Fairmont Royal York Hotel

Day 2: Explore Toronto

At leisure to explore Toronto. Taking the elevator to the top of the famous CN Tower or spending a few hours at the interactive Science Centre are just two of the ways to relax in this bustling city. If you prefer being outdoors, ice skating is a popular winter pastime here and there are around 50 outdoor rinks throughout the city. Hire some skates and join in or stay ringside and enjoy a hot cocoa.

Day 3: Niagara Under Ice

Full day excursion by train to Niagara Falls. The clinging spray blankets nearby trees and rocks with ice – we guarantee that you have never seen a spectacle quite like this. Why not take the optional self-guided 'Journey Behind the Falls' for a close-up view of this natural wonder? Return to Toronto this evening.

Day 4:  “The Canadian”

Morning departure on "The Canadian" in comfortable Sleeper-Plus accommodation. This well-appointed train has dome and lounge observations cars, as well as a full dining car and, of course, your private bedroom. Free hot coffee on tap adds a nice touch, whilst all meals on this train are included in the cost of your fare.

Day 5: Relax and Enjoy

Today you awake to the frozen ‘muskeg’ (bog) of the northern Ontario forest and you can ponder on the hardships endured by the pioneers who built this transcontinental railway. Occasional service stops give you an opportunity to stretch your legs, but you may not want to leave your air-conditioned warmth for long! We arrive in Winnipeg mid-evening.

Day 6: The Prairies

Shortly after breakfast the train reaches the service stop at Saskatoon. In warmer weather this is rich farming country, and you may have already spotted small settlements with their ubiquitous grain elevators alongside the track. It will be late evening before we arrive at the modern city of Edmonton, its size and prosperity due to the discovery of oil nearby.

Day 7: The Rocky Mountains

We reach the Rockies before daybreak and there is a 3 hour service stop at Jasper – another chance to explore. The train then continues over the Yellowhead Pass and past Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies.

Day 8: Vancouver

Early morning arrival in Vancouver for a 2 night stay. After checking in to our hotel, the afternoon is free and the mild West Coast climate makes a pleasant change from the harsh winter of the interior. Discover Granville Island with its art galleries, theatres, cafes and fresh produce market or visit one of the city's fantastic museums.

Accommodation - Georgian Court Hotel

Day 9: At Leisure in Vancouver

A completely free day to explore the city and surroundings. A day pass is available for all the city public transport in the whole Greater Vancouver area, including the Skytrain system and the Seabus (ferry) across to North Vancouver for superb views of the city skyline.

Day 10: Homeward Bound

We have more free time for last minute shopping or sightseeing, before our early evening flight. False Creek, with its boutique shopping is worth a visit or, for those who prefer long walks, Stanley Park is a "must" with its natural forest, beautiful beaches and amazing sea wall.

Day 11: Arrive London

Morning arrival in London.

Note: A word about the climate – All hotels and trains are fully heated and air-conditioned and you will not be exposed to harsh or unpleasant extremes of temperature. Sensible warm clothing including gloves, scarf and hat is all that is necessary for a most enjoyable and comfortable holiday. All participants will be fully briefed well before departure.

PRICING

Included:

• Economy flights from London

• Rail journeys as stated

• “The Canadian” train in Sleeper-Plus class, with use of lounge and dome cars and all meals included

• Accommodation on a ‘room only’ basis in good quality hotels (may be subject to change)

• Airport transfers, plus station to hotel transfer in Vancouver (Toronto station is opposite the hotel)

• The services of a UK tour leader throughout

Not included:

• Meals other than those described above

• Drinks

• Gratuities and tips

We recommend packing lightly, with one manageable main piece of luggage per person.