11.12 hrs. /19.12 hrs back in the U.K.
Yesterday, I published a bunch of unlabelled photographs in an attempt to illustrate, further, my two day adventure on The Rocky Mountaineer.
This would bring the curtain down on what one may describe as an epic journey to Vancouver from Southampton with numerous highlights along the way, already described and illustrated in previous blogs.
Today’s Rocky Mountaineer is a privately owned train, whose inaugural excursion left Vancouver in late May 1990. This was after VIA-Rail had introduced daytime excursions to the Rockies in 1988 at the behest of the Canadian government.
Changing at Jasper from VIA’s The Canadian to The Rocky Mountaineer enabled me to see just about all of the Rockies en route in bright clear daylight. Much as I enjoy overnight rail travel, three nights on The Canadian left me in some need of a rejuvenating stay at The Crimson Hotel in Jasper.
This “additional” blog is really to reiterate my absolute delight at having included The Rocky Mountaineer in my travel plans. I have travelled on, and thoroughly enjoyed many “famous” trains. They are all special, and “unmissable” in their own ways, and I would not suggest a preference. However, Rocky Mountaineer is up there with the very best!
However, there are three very slight issues none of which really matter.
a) Little apparent opportunity to photograph the train from ground level, especially the dedicated locomotives. (I would have still bought the DVD!)
b) Occasional over zealous use of cold air conditioning, mainly in the dining car, which is understandable.
And finally,
c) Over use of the P.A. system, a curse of all modern day travel, world wide.
I do appreciate that these now necessary announcements are either Law, or to negate possible severe legal action in the event of an unfortunate occurrence. Only personnel are allowed access between vehicles on Rocky Mountaineer. I therefore pay tribute to the nice crew member who took me through to the rear-most vehicle for a clear view backwards.
On the other hand, the commentary throughout the journey was informative, entertaining and crucial to appreciating what was outside. Like on The Canadian, the loco crew would telephone wildlife sightings to the guides on the train.
If you have the opportunity, The Rocky Mountaineer is a “must-do”. However, allow several days to recover from jet lag so as to enjoy this spectacular journey “to the full.”
David
12.20 hrs Starbucks at the Hyatt Recency, Vancouver.
Even the Red Carpet treatment for Gold Leaf passengers!
David's Cruise 