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Explore
the cosmopolitan city of Toronto then experience the
landscape of four Canadian provinces from the comfort of
a two-night stay aboard the VIA Rail. During five days
in the Canadian Rockies, enjoy daily excursions to view
the breathtaking mountains, crystal clear lakes, and
amazing wildlife that make this region so memorable.
Throughout your journey local speakers provide lively
commentary about the history and natural wonders of this
region.
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Educational Highlights Along Canada's Railway |
From the time you
arrive in Toronto until you conclude your journey in
Calgary, your tour will be enhanced by guest speakers
who delight in sharing aspects of Canada’s cultural and
natural history. We’ve assembled a diverse group of
experts who will meet you en route, adding depth and
enjoyment to this special rail journey.
- Hear about the history of Toronto and the
monumental challenges in constructing the landmark CN Tower.
- Meet a member of the Royal Canadian
Mounted Police to learn about the history of this legendary force and the
present -day responsibilities of the Mounties.
- Learn about the region's spectacular
natural history from expert naturalist Kristen Schmitten in Jasper.
Day
1:
Toronto, Ontario - Tour Begins
Discover Canada by rail during this educational and
scenic adventure. Travel through four Canadian
provinces, beginning in the cosmopolitan city of
Toronto. This evening attend a special welcome reception
before dinner. (D)
Day 2: Toronto, Ontario
This morning you visit the CN Tower and marvel at this
unique construction. Step onto the observation level and
witness an incredible panoramic view of Toronto. Later
this morning learn about the diverse cultures and
traditions that make this city so fascinating. During a
city tour you will visit city hall, known for its
architecture; Casa Loma, a prestigious manor home; and
the bustling downtown area. Experience the village-like
atmosphere of the vibrant and elegant Yorkville
district. You will also visit the Provincial Parliament
and the University of Toronto. (B)
Day 3: Toronto - St. Jacobs - Toronto
Today, travel through the St. Jacobs region in Ontario,
which has preserved a unique rural culture and offers
superb dining opportunities. Embark on a tour of the
countryside to see the picturesque “Kissing Bridge,”
Ontario’s last covered bridge. Explore the enchanting
town of St. Jacobs as you walk down its’ main street.
Later, travel by horse-drawn trolley to an Old Order
Mennonite farm to learn about the Mennonite’s
traditional ways of life and the importance of maple
syrup production to this region. Later tonight, enjoy a
home-cooked meal at a local farm. (B, D)
Day 4: Via Rail Train
All Aboard! Climb aboard the VIA Rail on your westward
journey to the Canadian Rockies. Discover mile after
mile of spectacular scenery and experience the vast
expanse of the Canadian landscape from the comfort of
your rail car. Your tour manager will share the
historical significance of the Canadian Railway,
including its 200 year economic impact on Canada in
conjunction with the development of the Fairmont hotel
chain whose landmark hotels cross one end of the country
to the other. (B, L, D)
Day 5: VIA Rail Train
Your train journey continues as you venture north across
the “Great Plains” of Canada. Observe the prairies of
Ontario as you relax with a good book, enjoy parlor
games, or simply take in the view from the observation
dome car. By early evening, you will enter the province
of Manitoba. (B, L, D)
Day 6: Disembark Train - Jasper, Alberta
Journey through the lovely prairie flatlands of
Saskatchewan and Alberta, as you travel west toward the
Rocky Mountains and Jasper National Park. This afternoon
you arrive in Jasper, a spectacularly scenic town set
against a backdrop of majestic mountains and sparkling
lakes. Tonight, gather for a specially arranged cocktail
party and a delightful dinner of local specialties.
After dinner, enjoy a presentation on the wildlife of
this region and the natural wonders of Alberta. (B, L,
D)
Day 7: Jasper
Begin your day with a trip to the extraordinary Maligne
Canyon, home to scenic Maligne Lake. The shimmering
waters are both gorgeous and peaceful. An optional
cruise along the lake, highlighting the beauty of Spirit
Island, will be offered. Return to Jasper where the
remainder of the day is at leisure to explore this
lovely town. (B, D)
Day 8: Jasper - Icefields Parkway - Banff
A sightseeing extravaganza awaits you along the
unforgettable Icefields Parkway, en route to Lake
Louise. Behold majestic waterfalls, rushing rivers,
glacial peaks, imposing cliffs and snowcapped mountain
ranges. A stop will be made at Athabasca Falls before
arriving at the Columbia Icefields, where you will take
a special ride in an ice explorer (weather permitting)
across this mass of glacial ice which is over 1,000 feet
thick. As you continue down the parkway, you may see
bears, furry marmots and stately elk. (B)
Day 9: Banff
Today you will view spectacular Moraine Lake and the
awesome Valley of the Ten Peaks. Travel to Sulphur
Mountain for an incredible gondola ride that offers
magnificent views of Banff and the nearby Rockies. This
afternoon meet a Royal Canadian Mounted Policeman, who
will share the fascinating history and lifestyle of this
challenging career. (B)
Day 10: Banff - Calgary
Today it’s off to the cosmopolitan city of Calgary for
your final stop. Visit the Olympic Park, premier site of
the 1988 Olympics, before a gala dinner at the Calgary
Tower Revolving Restaurant. (B, D)
Day 11: Calgary - Tour Ends
(B)

Stay a little longer... with a 1 night pre-tour stay in
Toronto starting at $95 per person, double or a 1 night
post-tour stay in Calgary starting at $80 per person, double.
Base Rates Per Person
|
Departure Date |
Tour Rate – Twin |
Tour and Air Rate |
|
Jun
17 2006 |
$2999 |
$3429
from ORD |
|
Aug 12 2006 |
$2999 |
$3429
from ORD |
|
Sep 23 2006 |
$2999 |
$3429
from ORD |
*Tour and air prices are lead-in rates from a
specific gateway based on twin occupancy and are subject to
change. Rates do not include inter-air flights. Please call for
triple or child occupancy rates. Tours departing BEFORE 4/30/06
may follow a different itinerary than what is listed here.
Please confirm your specific itinerary at the time of booking.
For tours that feature a cruise, port taxes are not included in
the prices above. Additional tour dates
may be available, please call us for information.
11 days, 20 meals
10 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 7 Dinners
Day 1 - 3 - Delta Chelsea, Toronto, ON
Day 4, 5 - Via Rail Train*
Day 6, 7 - Sawridge, Jasper, AB
Day 8, 9 - Caribou, Banff, AB
Day 10 - Westin Hotel, Calgary, AB
On some dates alternate hotels may be used.
NOTES:
- Sample air inclusive rate is
subject to availability and may vary by airline, flight number
or routing.
- Ice Explorer ride is weather
permitting and is not available before early May and after
October 11.
- Order of sightseeing is
subject to change.
- Rates are valid for Upper
Berth train accommodations. Lower Berth and Bedroom
accommodations are also available at an additional cost.
- Proper identification is
required for entry into Canada. All travelers should check with
the appropriate foreign consulate for additional entry
requirements.
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