I didn’t have the best of nights during my stopover at Kamloops; too much indulgence on the train, methinks!
Rocky Mountaineer warns in its publicity that its hotels are “moderate.” I disagree; the Delta (by Marriott) is a modern comfortable establishment with every conceivable amenity and a decent restaurant. Our bags could be left in our rooms and collected by the Train Company. What more service could anybody wish for.
I was far too weary to explore Kamloops last night, which is a pity. My former travelling neighbour, Marilynne, ventured down to the river and created excellent photographs of waterfowl and the sunset, which I enjoyed being shown.
Coaches (mine was No.14) collected us from our hotel. The only disappointment on arrival at Kamloops “train” station was that the lovely new carriage we were in yesterday was, because of an electrical issue, unfit for public use. I did, however, end up at a right hand window seat affording an interrupted vista. The pictures I will enclose with this blog don’t quite portray the enormous scale of the landscape through which we are travelling. Today, The Rocky Mountaineer is now 23 vehicles in length (not including the locomotives) after the train from Banff was attached at Kamloops.
Boarding the Rocky Mountaineer at Kamloops, 17th June. We departed on time at 08.00hrs
Leaving Kamloops, the landscape is dryer with far less growth. Vegetation increases as we venture westwards.
Again, a more arrid landscape. (below)
5 views from the Vestibule. (above)
Breakfast! (above)
(Below) “River Deep, Mountain High,” a selection of pictures taken before lunch.
By the time lunch was announced, both camera and phone needed re- charging. The next blog will include pictures taken on the outskirts of Vancouver.
This journey is now over. It must rank as one of the best rail trips I have ever taken. The Gold Leaf Class dome cars are among the finest observation vehicles I am aware of. Throughout the two days from Jasper, mile upon mile of what must be the most exciting, monumental, and spectacular countryside with huge alpine type mountains giving the sky a “run for its money.” I saw one black bear, a few eagles, and several round-horned sheep which I’m convinced were goats! The ambience on board was convivial, and the cuisine exquisite. Although I have relaxed my diet for the time being, i had to forego a magnificent chocolate gateaux and ice cream dessert. People at the table were “impressed.”
Now, I am in my hotel, Vancouver’s Hyatt Recency. My room is on the seventh of over 30 floors.
My next blog will be a series of photos taken today, particularly as this phenomenal railtour drew to an end.
Very best wishes, David. 20.15hrs.
17th June 2019.
David's Cruise 