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Originally Posted by Jimmy Stang
This sounds awesome. I'd love to hear more about it and also see some pics. I have always wanted to do something like that.
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Just a quick review: Overall I enjoyed the experience and based on the discounted fare I paid do not regret going. To be clear, my trip was not a five star hotel experience nor did I expect it to be. But the train has been around since the 50’s so I wanted a small experience of what that was like.
Sleeping: I was in a semi-private “upper” sleeping berth, which requires a ladder (like a bunk bed) and unlike the “lower” berth does not have a window. It was adequate to rest my head at night and was handy for an afternoon nap, but truth be told I didn’t get a very good sleep either night. They do have other options (including private cabins and their “Prestige” class suites) but those are definitely pricier, especially the latter. And for those in economy (aka coach) class, I personally couldn’t imagine willingly doing that more than one night.
Food: Sleeper class guests get meals included which was a very nice feature; the continental breakfast on the first morning was meh but the rest of the meals were excellent (restaurant/hotel level quality and service). The dining car definitely has a retro feel to it.
Experience: The Edmonton to Vancouver route goes through Jasper and the Rockies; overall the views were nice (especially from the Dome car), but as someone who was born in Calgary and has driven through the Rockies several times as a kid and adult, I honestly wasn’t blown away or anything. Obviously that won’t be the case if you’re from Ontario or elsewhere; I’m guessing the views might be nicer in the summer (it was snowy outside so visibility wasn’t great).
Conclusion: It was a unique way to spend approx 36 hours and to see and experience something I hadn’t before. Hopefully this doesn’t dissuade anyone from trying it but I wanted to pass along my honest thoughts; I realize the value proposition is going to be different for everyone.