Imagine riding the rails through the breathtaking Canadian Rockies on one of the world’s iconic rail excursions – the Rocky Mountaineer. Experience the beauty of the jagged mountains and dense green forests as the train winds its way along crystal clear lakes and rivers within the vast, wide-open wilderness of British Columbia and Alberta.
Bianca Taylor of Taylor & Turner Travel Associates in Bulimba, QLD was able to enjoy the wonders of this incredible journey thanks to Insight Vacations Gold. Travelling to the beautiful harbor city of Vancouver on Air Canada’s direct service from Sydney, Bianca was anxious to begin her incredible Rocky Mountain Adventure.
Gold Leaf Service from Vancouver to Banff
Vancouver is located on a picturesque strait, with only a narrow island separating the gleaming city from the deep blue waters of the Pacific. Surrounded by peaceful bays and rivers and dense forests of pine and maple, Vancouver is a nature lover’s paradise and it is this idyllic setting from which the legendary Rocky Mountaineer begins it journey east, towards the vast Rocky Mountain chain.
For the best views, the Rocky Mountaineer travels only during day light hours when riders can take full advantage of the magnificent scenery. And travelling in Gold Leaf class, the group was not only able to enjoy the exclusive five-star service, but also the comfort and convenience of the relaxing bi-level, glass domed coaches with their full length windows – a feature reserved exclusively for Gold Leaf travellers. “If you do the Rocky Mountaineer - pay for Gold Leaf!” said Bianca empathically.
Where the Mountains Meet the Sky
Setting out for Yoho National Park and the luxurious Emerald Lake Lodge near Banff, Bianca and her group got their first taste of the incredible scenery. Their friendly tour director pointed out key points of interest and generally made the group feel comfortable as the train wound its way along imposing cliffs and raging rivers.
Reaching the Emerald Lake Lodge, Bianca was treated to the idyllic scenery of Yoho National Park and the warm, inviting embrace of the beautifully secluded lake side chalet. “Emerald Lake Lodge was quaint, friendly, luxurious and in an amazing lake side setting,” said Bianca. With a huge range of outdoor activities this is the perfect place to take in the pristine beauty and awe inspiring surroundings of the Rockies. In nearby Banff, Bianca urged, “take the gondola up Sulphur Mountain in Banff - the most amazing view that stretches for miles!”
Heading back to Vancouver, Bianca relished the time she was able to spend in what is one of the most beautiful and idyllic wilderness areas in the world. “Our tour director (Happy Feather) was just amazing and the kindest woman in the world and I would recommend the tour for her alone,” said Bianca. Combined with the Gold Leaf service of the Rocky Mountaineer and luxury accommodation at Emerald Lake Lodge, this first class trip is tailor made to Bianca’s valued Travel Associates clients.
