Experiencing the magic of a railcar is high up there on many people's bucket list.
Besides the spectacular scenery that unfolds in front of your eyes, the friendly service and gourmet cuisine, it's the people you meet that make riding the rails one of the most memorable trips of a lifetime.
Via Rail Canada has been creating enduring memoirs for thousands of international and local visitors for decades now.
"Many of our guests make lasting friendships with other guests they've met on their rail trip," says Josephine Wasch, senior advisor, domestic and international sales, Via Rail Canada.
VIA's iconic transcontinental train journey was voted by National Geographic as "Top 10 World Train Trips."
For good reason.
As you relax to the rhythmic, rocking sound of the train, Via Rail's flagship train, the Canadian, takes guests on a three-day, four-night trek from Vancouver to Toronto, across some of this country's most scenic and ever-changing vistas.
Via travels through some of the country's most impressive landscapes from coast to coast from the majesty of the Rockies and Pacific, to the Prairies through the woodlands of Ontario. VIA's glass domed viewing cars are the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
"Our long distance train rides showcase the best there is to see in Canada," says Wasch. Catch the sunsets of the Prairies or the coastal beauty of B.C. it's an amazing journey each time."
This is an authentic rail experience that takes you back to times of elegance and sophistication.
The excitement begins as soon as you step into the historic 1919 Vancouver Station. There, travelers are greeted warmly by Via Rail's friendly staff, whose job it is to ensure every guest discovers its unparallel service.
Last year, Via Rail's Vancouver Station was restored to its former glory, both inside and out. The national train company received a prestigious honourary award by Heritage BC for its Newly Renovated Vancouver Station.
Meantime, the meeting point, the hub of the train, is the dining room.
Executive chef Martin Gemme is a culinary master, who along with his team, has created local dishes that represent the best from each province you travel through.
In addition, the train offers events, during the journey, such as beer and wine tastings and movie nights that are perfect opportunities to mingle with newfound friends.
Then, at night retire to your hotel-style compartment and let the gentle rocking of the train lull you to sleep.
Renew a love affair with the style and opulence of an era gone by. For more information, or to book your rail adventure, visit www.viarail.ca.
