Road Scholar : Home
Canadian Explorer

Program Number: 3844RJ
Start and End Dates:
9/6/2013 - 9/20/2013; 9/20/2013 - 10/4/2013; 10/4/2013 - 10/18/2013;
Duration: 14 nights
Location: Quebec City, Quebec
Price starting at: $5,397.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: Train Treks; On the Road; Independent City Discoveries
Meals: 35; 14 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 12 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

From the elegance of Quebec to the wilds of the Rockies and the splendor of the British Columbia coast, experience the best of Canada on this railroad journey across the country. Explore the rich historical legacies of its provinces, the exquisite architecture of its cities and the vibrant blend of indigenous, French and British cultures that unite to form an incomparable country.




Highlights

• Journey 3,000 miles westward from Quebec to British Columbia, passing through northern Ontario, the Prairies and the Canadian Rockies along the way.
• Experience and compare Canada’s most exciting cities: Quebec City, Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver.
• Absorb splendid views of soaring mountains and sweeping prairies outside your window.



Activity Particulars

Walking up to two miles per day; some uneven terrain and stairs.



2014 departures start in Montreal and do not include Quebec City.




Date Specific Information

9-6-2013, 9-20-2013, 10-4-2013

Enjoy the latest in hearing technology — listening devices — on this date.



Itinerary Summary

2013: Arrival Quebec City, 2 nights; train to Montreal, 2 nights; train to Toronto, 2 nights; overnight train, 3 nights; Jasper, 2 nights; overnight train, 1 night; Vancouver, 2 nights; departure. // 2014: Montreal, 2 nights; train to Toronto, 2 nights; overnight train, 3 nights; Jasper, 2 nights; overnight train, 1 night; Vancouver, 2 nights; departure.



Coordinated by Routes to Learning Canada.




Quebec City

The towers and turrets of Chateau Frontenac dominate the skyline of this 400-year-old walled city on the St. Lawrence River, the only fortified city north of Mexico. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage City, Canada’s oldest city is known and loved for its European charms and narrow, cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old homes.



Montreal

Montreal is an intoxicating blend of Old World charm and big-city excitement, from the cobblestone streets of the Old Port to the concert halls and theaters of the Place des Arts. The second-largest French-speaking city after Paris, Montreal hosts world-class museums and galleries alongside centuries-old basilicas and family-owned restaurants.



Toronto

This world-class city located on the north shore of Lake Ontario is a mosaic of distinctive neighborhoods with numerous parks and miles of beaches, boardwalks and trails. Canada’s largest city is home to a vibrant downtown core, thriving fine and performing arts groups, extensive green space and a global citizenry.



Jasper

Located within a national park, the municipality of Jasper shares its governance with the Parks Canada Agency. Born as a fur-trade supply depot in the early 1800s, the 4,000-resident town benefits from the nearly 3 million visitors that pass through Jasper National Park annually.



Vancouver (British Columbia)

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Vancouver for its breathtaking hiking and biking trails and majestic views of the tree-lined waterway, the Strait of Georgia. With distinctive neighborhoods, top-rated restaurants and a thriving theater and arts scene, Vancouver is also a sophisticated destination. It is renowned as one of the world’s best cities.
Accommodations
Quebec City: Historic four-star hotel in Old Quebec. Montreal: Four-star downtown hotel. Toronto: Downtown hotel. Jasper: Lodge in Jasper National Park with spectacular mountain views. Vancouver: Hotel near English Bay. Aboard trains: Comfortable double bedroom or roomette.

Road Scholar Instructors
These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur.
John Atkin
John Atkin is an author, historian and heritage advocate who has been fascinated with Vancouver since moving to the city over 30 years ago. He if the co-founder of the Heritage Vancouver Society, has contributed to a documentary on the city, and has appeared regularly on television and radio, including CBC Television and CTV’s Canada AM. John is the author of four books on Vancouver, including “Strathcona: Vancouver’s First Neighborhood,” and is an editor for the B.C. Historical Federation.
 
Bruce Bell
Bruce Bell — journalist, author, playwright, actor and curator — is considered Toronto’s most famous historian and was named the Official Historian of St. Lawrence Hall by the city of Toronto. An award-winning playwright, he also published “Amazing Tales of St. Lawrence Neighbourhood” and “TORONTO: A Pictorial Celebration.” Bruce’s mission is to tell Toronto’s history through his writings and lectures, including his sold-out shows at Toronto’s famed Winter Garden Theatre.
 
Stephen Marchessault
Stephen Marchessault was raised in a bilingual family and has spent most of his life in Québec City. He majored in history at Glendon College at York University in Toronto, and over the years, has developed an interest in the history of Québec City. Stephen enjoys sharing his interest and knowledge of this World Heritage City with lifelong learners.
 
Jim Manson
In 1980, Dr. Jim Manson began his teaching career in Jamaica before returning to his native Canada, where he taught in the Quebec high school system for the next several years. He then served as a history professor at Concordia, McGill and Bishops Universities. Dr. Manson has been a Road Scholar instructor since 1992, and has journeyed by train, boat and coach with participants during numerous learning adventures across Canada.
 
Anne Williams
Educated as a geologist, Anne Williams founded The Jasper Naturalist in 1998, and has been sharing the wonders of Jasper, Banff and Yoho national parks with curious learners ever since. Since making Jasper her home in 1989, Anne has built back-country trails, worked as a professional ski patroller and monitored wildlife movement. She has also aided in running Jasper’s MAPS bird banding station and the park’s caribou recovery strategy.
 
Meals and Lodgings
   Manoir Victoria
  Quebec City, Quebec 2 nights
   Delta Centre Ville Hotel Montreal
  Montréal, Québec 2 nights
   The Strathcona Hotel
  Toronto 2 nights
   VIA Rail
  Aboard train 3 nights
   Amethyst Lodge
  Jasper, Alberta 2 nights
   VIA Rail
  Aboard train 1 night
   Best Western Sands by the Sea
  Vancouver, British Columbia 2 nights
 Manoir Victoria
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: Located in the heart of historic, culturally vibrant, gastronomic and romantic Old Québec, the unique 4-star European-style hotel extends a warm and friendly welcome in an inviting decor and spectacular surroundings that have been delighting visitors for centuries. The popularity of the Hotel Manoir Victoria began in the early 1830’s. Named Hotel Albion at the time, it was located on the East side of Côte du Palais, i.e. across the street from the actual hotel. At the time, the Albion hotel, owned by Thomas Payne, was the best in town and a room was charged $1.50 per night. Later, the hotel name changed for Stadacona. Benjamin Trudel, owner of another hotel in Québec, bought the Stadacona in 1895, refurbished the hotel and named it “Hotel Victoria”.
  Contact info: 44, Cote du Palais
Québec, QC G1R 4H8 Canada
phone: 800-463-6283
web: www.manoir-victoria.com/english
  Room amenities: Room amenities include hairdryer, individual digital thermostat, flat screen TVs with cable and remote control, complimentary high speed internet access in all rooms, alarm clock with iPhone/iPod charger/player, direct access telephone, minibar ($), iron and ironing boards, coffeemaker.
  Facility amenities: The new Spa du Manoir offering expert body and esthetic care, an indoor pool, a sauna, a fitness centre, an Internet lounge as well as indoor parking with valet service.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Additional nights prior: Call for availability & rates Please contact the hotel directly on your own OR if you require personal assistance contact Maritime Travel toll free at 1-888-905-5959. A service fee MAY apply.
  Check in time: 3:00 PM

 Delta Centre Ville Hotel Montreal
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: The Delta Centre-Ville is a luxurious four-star hotel situated between historic Old Montreal and vibrant New Montreal. Centrally located, guests are mere moments from some of the area's most notable sites including the Old Port, Mount-Royal Park and the Convention Centre. Guests of the Delta Centre-Ville have fast, easy access to public transport and the hotel is set mere moments from Montreal's subway system. The hotel features the city's only revolving rooftop restaurant, which serves delicious, mouthwatering dishes whilst boasting unique, awe-inspiring views. The Centre-Ville also offers a fully equipped fitness centre and relaxing indoor swimming pool. The Centre-Ville is the perfect choice whether you are staying for either business or pleasure.
  Contact info: 777 University Street
Montreal, QC H3C3Z7 Canada
phone: 866-332-3590
web: www.deltahotels.com/en/hotels/hotels.php?hotelId=35
  Room amenities: Guest rooms feature floor to ceiling panoramic windows, cable TV’s with in-house videos, voicemail, data ports, high-speed Internet ($), AM/FM alarm clock radios, irons and ironing boards, mini-bars, coffee/tea makers, and hairdryers.
  Facility amenities: Hotel amenities include multilingual staff, 24-hour front desk, room service, dry cleaning, parking, wake-up calls, safe deposit box, Express Check-in/out, supervised children's club, indoor heated pool, sauna, seasonal sun deck, concierge, gift shop, business center, and a fully equipped fitness center with lockers and showers. Dining is available at two onsite venues, The Bistro Bar Chez Antoine, and The Tour de Ville, Montreal's only revolving rooftop restaurant.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 The Strathcona Hotel
Type: Full Service Hotel
  Description: The Strathcona Hotel is a noted landmark, fashioned after small, intimate European hotels. From here, you can walk to almost everything in downtown Toronto, and you are minutes away from the theater district and a variety of night spots and restaurants for dining and dancing. The Harbourfront, Air Canada Centre, and Skydome are mere moments away.
  Contact info: 60 York Street
Toronto, ON M5J 1S8 Canada
phone: 416-363-3321
web: www.thestrathconahotel.com
  Room amenities: All standard rooms include hair dryers, and same-day dry cleaning service is available six days a week.
  Facility amenities: Fitness facilities adjacent to the hotel are available to hotel guests ($).
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes

 VIA Rail
Type: Train
  Description: Topics will include the role of transportation in Canada’s development, the challenges of laying rail across Canada, and how railways shaped the country and Canada today. You will follow the “iron road” that was carved out of solid rock more than a century ago as you journey past lakes and mountain peaks crowned with snow and wind your way across bridges and through tunnels.
  Contact info: n/a
n/a, ON  Canada
phone: 888-842-7245
web: www.viarail.com
  Room amenities: See Facility amenities
  Facility amenities: Double Bedroom – By day, this is a private room for two with armchairs, a large picture window, small closet, call button, hand basin, razor outlet, and separate toilet and vanity. A foldout table is available on request. At night, the bedroom converts to upper and lower beds. Roomette – This is a private, one-person room with comfortable seat, call button, hand basin, razor outlet, and concealed toilet and vanity. At night, it becomes a snug sleeping area.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Bathroom: Train configuration Double bedroom-separate toilet and vanity. Roomette- concealed toilet and vanity.

 Amethyst Lodge
Type: Lodge
  Description: The Amethyst Lodge is close to the center of Jasper and just a short walk from rail and bus terminals, museums, and art galleries. Enjoy amazing wildlife viewing and unspoiled wilderness within blocks of your Jasper home.
  Contact info: 200 Connaught Drive
Jasper, AB T0E 1E0 Canada
phone: 780-852-3394
web: www.mpljasper.com/hotels/amethyst_lodge/index.html
  Room amenities: In-room coffee/tea, hair dryers, wireless high speed Internet access in rooms ($).
  Facility amenities: The lodge offers a number of amenities for your convenience, including free high speed Internet access in the lobby. Two outdoor hot tubs and a coin-operated laundry facility are nearby.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes

 Best Western Sands by the Sea
Type: Full Service Hotel
  Description: Best Western Sands by the Sea is conveniently located half a block from the beach at beautiful English Bay and three blocks from Stanley Park’s 1,000 acres of trails and gardens. Three bus routes stop at the front door for easy access to other parts of town.
  Contact info: 1755 Davie Street
Vancouver, BC V6G 1W5 Canada
phone: 604-682-1831
web: www.bestwesternsandshotelvancouver.com/
  Room amenities: In-room coffee makers, mini fridges, iron and ironing board, hair dryers, iPod/iPhone/iPad clock radios, flat screen TVs, free high speed Internet access
  Facility amenities: Hotel amenities include a sauna and exercise room. Same-day dry-cleaning service is available, and there is a coin laundry available.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights after: Check for availability. Please contact the hotel directly on your own OR if you require personal assistance contact Maritime Travel toll free at 1-888-905-5959. A service fee MAY apply.
  Check out time: 12:00 PM


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Hotel check-in after 3:00 pm., Québec City, Québec. Dinner is at 6:00 pm You will be staying at Manoir Victoria that night.
  End of Program:
Breakfast is scheduled at 8:00 am. Independent departures after breakfast from hotel. Check-out is 12:00 pm. You will be staying at Best Western Sands by the Sea the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. A passport is required for ALL travel to/from Canada. A US law known as the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) requires those traveling to/from the United States by land & sea to also have a passport or other appropriate secure documents (NEXUS card). Passport requirements are subject to change. Visit www.travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html for information.
  Parking availability:
For complete parking details please contact the hotel directly. An additional cost will apply, paid on site.
Transportation
  Train or bus availability: Taxis will be available for your transfer from train and bus stations to the hotel. Taxi from train station Gare du Palais is approximately $8.00 CAD.
To Start of Program
  Location:  Quebec City, Quebec
  Nearest highway: Trans Canada Highway
  Nearest airport:  Jean Lesage International Airport
  Transportation to site: Taxi from Jean-Lesage International Airport to downtown Québec City is approximately $35.00 CAD. Distance from the airport to the hotel is approximately 8 miles (13 kilometers) Jean Lesage Airport does not operate a shuttle service to downtown or to individual hotels. Taxi from train station Gare du Palais is approximately $8.00 CAD. By Car: • If you are traveling from or through Ontario, Highway 401 East there becomes Highway 20 Est (East) in Québec. • Highway 40 becomes 440 then Charest Boulevard then rue St-Paul. To train station "Gare du Palais" and on your right on St-Nicolas St. that becomes Côte du Palais. • Highway 20 to Pierre-Laporte bridge. Exit blvd. Laurier E/QC-175 N towards Quebec/Centre Ville. Continue on to Rue Saint Louis, and turn left onto Rue Saint-Ursule. Turn right onto Rue Saint-Jean and left onto Côte du Palais. Please contact Road Scholar Travel Services for assistance with air travel at: 1-800-854-3418; travelinfo@roadscholar.org. Hours of operation: 9 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday. For assistance with pre/post add on hotel accommodations, medical/travel insurance, car rentals, or to customize your extended stay please contact Denise Tracey at Maritime Travel, toll free 1-888-905-5959 or by email at dtracey@maritimetravel.ca.
  From End of Program
  Location:  Vancouver, British Columbia
  Nearest city or town:  Vancouver
  Nearest airport:  Vancouver International airport
  Transportation from site: By Air: Shuttle service is no longer available to/from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to/from downtown Vancouver. For current arrival and departure information to/from the airport, please visit www.yvr.ca/en/getting-to-from-yvr.aspx. Taxi – From the hotel to the airport is approximately CAD$30-$40. Public Transportation From the hotel to the airport walk on Davie Street towards Bidwell Street and take the city bus route C21 towards Yaletown. Depart bus at the Yaletown/Roundhouse Station, there will be signage directing you to the Canada Line. Take the Canada line to the airport. Approximate cost per person on way is $7 - $10 and approximate travel time is 35-45 minutes. For more information on schedules and fares, please call Canada Line (TransLink) directly at 604-953-3333 or visit their website www.TransLink.ca Sedans and Limousines – Aerocar Service is the airport’s licensed sedan and limousine provider. Approximate cost from the hotel to the airport is $52 plus taxes and gratuities. Reservations are required a minimum of 24 hours in advance. For more information or to make reservations, please contact Aerocar at 604-298-1000 or visit www.aerocar.ca/.
Elevation Note: Elevations can reach up to 9,000 feet.
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Independent arrivals/Introductions/Welcome dinner
(Friday, September 20)
   
 Afternoon: Independent arrivals and transfers to the program hotel after 3:00 pm. Please note that rooms are not generally available until mid to late afternoon.
 Dinner: Fine dining at the hotel restaurant offers you an outstanding culinary experience. Plated service features three courses with choice of soup or salad, two entree choices and dessert plus coffee and tea.
 Evening: INTRODUCTIONS: Following dinner, you will meet for introductions, a review of the program and site orienation. Take the rest of the evening to become acquainted with your fellow participants or stroll around the local area. You are embarking on a learning adventure to discover Quebec's vibrant culture and history through a broad range of presentations and exciting field trips led by some of Quebec's most knowledgeable and engaging experts. You will explore the heart of Old Quebec's Upper and Lower Towns, discovering many of the most important sites, institutions, and monuments along the way. This exciting new program embodies the best that Quebec City has to offer.
   
Accommodations: Manoir Victoria
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2: History of Quebec City/Guided Walk in Old Quebec/Good Shepherd Museum
(Saturday, September 21)

Note: Today you will encounter uneven terrain and cobblestone streets during your moderate guided walk of Old Quebec.
   
 Breakfast: Full American breakfast buffet at the hotel restaurant includes scrambled eggs, home-fried potatoes, bacon, ham, sausages, home baked beans, thin pancakes and French toast.
 Morning: PRESENTATION: History of Quebec City. A presentation by a local historian entitled, "The History of Quebec City", will give you an excellent overview of Quebec City from its founding to the present day. Learn about the principal historical events that occurred here. The city was awarded its World Heritage City designation in 1985 based partially on the preservation of the fortifications around the Old Town, which date from 1745. FIELD TRIP: Old Quebec. Explore historic Old Quebec on a guided walk. Experience the distinct European feel with its stone buildings and winding streets lined with shops and restaurants.
 Lunch: Enjoy lunch at the hotel.
 Afternoon: PRESENTATION: Role of the Church. Learn about the important role played by the Church in insuring the survival of French-Canadian culture, language and customs to its loss of influence in 21st-century Quebec. FIELD TRIP: At the Good Shepherd Museum, discover the captivating story of the Good Shepherd Sisters of Quebec, a community founded in the heart of Quebec City in 1850. Set in a magnificent historic building erected between 1878 and 1887, the Museum also provides a comprehensive analysis on the social history of marginalized women and abandoned children during the 19th and 20th centuries. FREE TIME: Enjoy some free time to explore Quebec City on your own or relax at your hotel. Some may choose to visit the Musee National des Beaux Arts du Quebec. The museum is made up of three linked buildings that display an impressive array of architecture. The museum's collection includes more than 22,000 works produced mainly in Quebec from early colonial times to the present day. The museum acts as a custodian, keeping alive the memory of Quebec art and artists.
 Dinner: Dinner this evening is at a restaurant in Old Québec specializing in traditional Québecoise cuisine.
 Evening: FREE EVENING: Following dinner, the remainder of the evening is free to explore Québec City on your own. You may want to check the official Québec City tourism website to see what’s on: www.bonjourquebec.com
   
Accommodations: Manoir Victoria
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Evolution of Nationalism/Plains of Abraham
(Sunday, September 22)
   
 Breakfast: Full American breakfast buffet at the hotel restaurant includes scrambled eggs, home-fried potatoes, bacon, ham, sausages, home baked beans, thin pancakes and French toast.
 Morning: PRESENTATION: The Evolution of Nationalism in Quebec. At first French Canadian nationalism consisted in insuring the survival of the race. Later on it would focus on defending provincial jurisdictions from federal encroachments and finally it would call for an outright independent country. A local historian outlines the events that define this radicalization of options. FIELD TRIP: Plains of Abraham. Travel to National Battlefields Park, also known as the Plains of Abraham. This is the site of the most significant battle in Canadian history, despite the fact that the battle lasted only thirty minutes. Following the visit to the Plains of Abraham, enjoy a short city coach excursion en route to the train station.
 Lunch: Lunch on your own to explore local fare.
 Afternoon: Travel by train from Québec City to Montréal. Upon arrival in Montréal, check into your hotel.
 Dinner: Enjoy dinner at the hotel restaurant.
 Evening: Following dinner, the remainder of the evening is free.
   
Accommodations: Delta Centre Ville Hotel Montreal
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4: Transportation Revolution/French Empire, British Conquest/Historic Old Montreal
(Monday, September 23)

Note: Today you will encounter uneven terrain and cobblestone streets during your moderate guided walk of Old Montreal.
   
 Breakfast: Buffet breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: PRESENTATION: The Montreal Merchants and the Transportation Revolution/The French Empire in North America and the British Conquest. Two presentations with a local historian provide an analysis of transportation technology and its impact on Montreal commerce. FIELD TRIP: Architecture of Old Montreal. Explore the architectural history of the city, as you walk the cobbled streets on a guided walk of Old Montreal. Notable highlights during the walk include Notre Dame Basilica, Place d'Armes and Place Jacques Cartier. This historic city center is rich in museums, galleries, restaurants and grey stone architecture spread out along narrow, cobblestone streets. Stroll through Place Jacques Cartier, a lively public square, and then turn south to the waterfront (Vieux Port). Its impressive harborfront facilities include a 1.5-mile (2.5-km)-long recreational park along the St. Lawrence River, a state-of-the-art science center, a theater, antiquarian bookshops and inviting cafe.
 Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant.
 Afternoon: FREE TIME: Following lunch, enjoy free time to explore Montréal on your own.You may want to check the Montréal website to see what’s on: www.tourisme-montreal.org.
 Dinner: Meet for dinner at a local restaurant.
 Evening: Continue your exploration of Montréal, or relax at the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Delta Centre Ville Hotel Montreal
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Canadian Railway Museum/City coach excursion/Train to Toronto
(Tuesday, September 24)
   
 Breakfast: Buffet breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: FIELD TRIP: Canadian Railway Museum. On a field trip to the Canadian Railway Museum, examine transportation artifacts including giant steam locomotion engines and refurbished early coaches. One of Canada's most unique museums, the collection of railway material here is the largest in the country and one of the most important in the world.
 Lunch: Today's lunch will be a full meal in Montreal.
 Afternoon: EXCURSION: En route to the train station, enjoy a coach excursion of Montréal. Travel by train from Montréal to Toronto.
 Dinner: Dinner on your own onboard the train.
 Evening: Arrival in Toronto and check into your hotel.
   
Accommodations: The Strathcona Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: Toronto's History/Royal Ontario Museum
(Wednesday, September 25)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: FIELD TRIP: A coach is the learning venue for the morning lecture, as you traverse the city and examine its history. Toronto is one of North America's most ethnically diverse cities, home to more than 80 ethnic communities from around the world.
 Lunch: Lunch at the Royal Ontario Museum.
 Afternoon: FIELD TRIP and PRESENTATION: At the Royal Ontario Museum, either the Director of Design or the Vice President, Marketing and Major Exhibitions will conduct a private lecture and guided tour. Explore an exceptional array of themed galleries throughout the Museum, spanning both world cultures and natural history. With six million objects in the ROM's collections, there's something new to discover around every corner. The Royal Ontario Museum, commonly known as the ROM, is a major museum for world culture and natural history in the city of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The ROM is the fifth largest museum in North America and contains more than six million items and over 40 galleries. It is also the largest museum in Canada. It has notable collections of dinosaurs, Near Eastern and African art, East Asian art, European history, and Canadian history.
 Dinner: Dinner on your own to explore local fare.
 Evening: FREE EVENING Enjoy a professional theater performance in the city that boasts the third-largest sale of theater tickets in the English-speaking world. Only New York and London, England sell more theater tickets each year. Or you may choose to visit the CN Tower for a panoramic view of the city, or explore Toronto on your own. For information on what's on during your visit, check out www.seetorontonow.com.
   
Accommodations: The Strathcona Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Loyalists/Railroad through Western Canada /Depart by train for Jasper
(Thursday, September 26)

Note: You will require a small carry-on suitcase for use on the train. Your large luggage is checked through to Jasper. Pack medications, passport, personal items and anything you may need access to during the three days aboard the train as you will not have access to your large luggage during this time. You are restricted to two small carry-on bags per person. Maximum dimensions of each carry-on: 66 x 46 x 23 cm (26 x 18 x 9 in.) Maximum weight of each carry-on: 23 kg (50 lb.)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: PRESENTATION: The theme of the two morning lectures is the history of Ontario and the United Empire Loyalists, with an emphasis on Toronto's origins as the capital of Upper Canada; the War of 1812 between Britain and the United States, and contemporary Toronto. As well, your lecturer will discuss the building of the railroad through central and western Canada. Your lecturer is the Senior Program Officer at Historic Fort York, a municipally operated museum that specializes in the era of the War of 1812. Fort York features some of the oldest buildings in the city of Toronto.
 Lunch: Lunch on your own to explore local fare.
 Afternoon: Free time to explore Toronto on your own. Possible visits include the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Bata Shoe Museum or the Eaton Centre.
 Dinner: Meet for dinner at a restaurant near Union Station.
 Evening: Depart by train for Jasper at 10:00 p.m. Your train journey to Western Canada begins at Union Station in downtown Toronto. The train route will follow the "iron road" that was carved out of solid rock more than a century ago. Journey past lakes and mountain peaks crowned with snow and wind your way across bridges and through tunnels. You will sleep aboard the train for three nights and cross four provinces traveling from central Canada to Canada's west to arrive in Jasper, Alberta.
   
Accommodations: VIA Rail
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8: Aboard the train/Trans Canada Railway
(Friday, September 27)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the train. Each meal on board the train promises to be a memorable experience: a sophisticated, enticing cuisine, served with a generous portion of stunning landscapes.
 Morning: Audiovisual materials are available to enhance your learning experience on the train. Your Group Leader will make arrangements for a DVD presentation detailing the building of the railroad.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the train.
 Afternoon: Relax and enjoy the passing scenery.
 Dinner: Dinner on board the train.
 Evening: Games and movies are featured activities during the evening.
   
Accommodations: VIA Rail
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Free time in Winnipeg/Aboard the train
(Saturday, September 28)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the train.
 Morning: FREE TIME: Enjoy several hours of free time in Winnipeg, the largest city in Manitoba, containing over half of the provincial population. Winnipeg is also the provincial capital. Located at the eastern edge of the prairie region of Western Canada, Winnipeg plays a prominent role in transportation, finance, manufacturing, agriculture and education. Because all rail and highway traffic between eastern and western Canada must travel through or near the city, it is often called the "Gateway to the West". The city is located near the geographic centre of North America, at the confluence of the historic Red and Assiniboine Rivers, a point now commonly known as The Forks. This is a focal point for many celebrations, public events, museums, shops, skating, restaurants, and tours. Winnipeg lies in close proximity to hundreds of lakes, including Lake Winnipeg, Canada's fifth largest lake and the world's eleventh largest, as well as Lake Manitoba and the Lake of the Woods. The city is a cultural centre and is the home of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra. It boasts historic architecture, scenic waterways, a heritage river, numerous parks including Assiniboine Park, and distinctive neighborhoods. Winnipeg is home to the Hudson's Bay Company Archives, and is in the area of the original settlements and farms in the west. Winnipeg has laid claim to the title of World's Longest Skating Rink along the Red and Assiniboine rivers.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the train.
 Afternoon: The train departs Winnipeg in early afternoon.
 Dinner: Dinner on board the train.
 Evening: Games and movies are featured activities during the evening.
   
Accommodations: VIA Rail
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Jasper National Park/Maligne Canyon
(Sunday, September 29)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the train.
 Morning: This morning the train approaches Jasper, nestled deep in the heart of the Canadian Rockies and recognized internationally for its rugged beauty. Jasper is a world premiere national park, with a combination of startlingly blue-green mountain lakes, soaring peaks, and broad, forested valleys.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the train.
 Afternoon: Arrive in Jasper, and transfer to your hotel. PRESENTATION: A lecture provides an orientation to the extensive riches of Jasper National Park. Encompassing over 10,878 square kilometers (4,200 square miles), the park has healthy wildlife populations, including grizzly bears and wolves, living among the grand peaks. The park's distance from large urban centers and its relatively intact ecology create a special sense of the early days in the Rockies. FIELD TRIP: The afternoon educational component is an exploration of the Maligne Canyon. Your instructor will discuss the geological evidence of deep canyon formation; the rich natural history of the site; and wildlife habitats. There will be an opportunity to search for fossils.
 Dinner: Dinner at the hotel.
 Evening: Free evening to explore Jasper on your own. To discover what’s on, check www.jaspercanadianrockies.com.
   
Accommodations: Amethyst Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Jasper Natural History/Athabasca Glacier
(Monday, September 30)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: FIELD TRIP: The second day in Jasper will involve a full day field trip with your naturalist instructor. The learning activities will be geared to the study of the natural history in a number of areas of this beautiful and diverse mountain terrain. Possible sites of study may include Athabasca Falls, Sunwapta Falls, Maligne Lake, and the Valley of the Five Lakes. Exact destinations may vary depending on the weather. You will also travel to the Columbia Icefields and experience a Snowcoach ride on the Athabasca Glacier. This is the largest icefield south of Alaska, and the shimmering glacial ice and snow cover some 389 sq. km. (233 sq. mi.). An exciting Snowcoach Tour will take you out onto the Athabasca Glacier, a tongue of the Columbia Icefield, for an awe-inspiring glimpse of icy crevasses and ice-fed streamlets.
 Lunch: Lunch en route.
 Afternoon: Your field trip continues during the afternoon.
 Dinner: Dinner at a local restaurant in Jasper.
 Evening: Following dinner, the evening is free to explore Jasper on your own or relax at the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Amethyst Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Yellowhead Museum/Depart by train for Vancouver
(Tuesday, October 1)

Note: You will require a small carry-on suitcase for use on the train. Your large luggage is checked through to Vancouver. Pack medications, passport, personal items and anything you may need access to during your overnight aboard the train. You are restricted to two small carry-on bags per person. Maximum dimensions of each carry-on: 66 x 46 x 23 cm (26 x 18 x 9 in.) Maximum weight of each carry-on: 23 kg (50 lb.)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: PRESENTATION: Local Geology of the Jasper area. FIELD TRIP: Enjoy a visit to the Yellowhead Museum. At the museum, the educational program will address the human history of the area. This is a research and exhibit museum. Its documents and artifacts illustrate the human history of Jasper National Park and the Yellowhead corridor. The museum visit is followed by free time to explore the town of Jasper.
 Lunch: Lunch on your own to explore local fare
 Afternoon: FREE TIME: Enjoy some free time in Jasper before the train departs for Vancouver in mid afternoon.
 Dinner: Dinner on board the train.
 Evening: Games and movies are featured activities during the evening.
   
Accommodations: VIA Rail
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 13: Vancouver Exploration/Granville Island Market/Museum of Anthropology
(Wednesday, October 2)

Note: Today, in addition to having lunch on Granville Island you will have time to explore the area on your own. Please note you may encounter cobblestone streets and uneven terrain.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the train, prior to arrival in Vancouver.
 Morning: FIELD TRIP: Disembarking the train in Vancouver, you will immediately commence the exploration of this vibrant city. Downtown areas of the city, such as Stanley Park, Gastown and Chinatown will be the subjects of study. Both coach and walking excursions will be utilized as learning venues for this segment of the program.
 Lunch: Lunch on your own at Granville Island Market.
 Afternoon: FIELD TRIP: The focus of the afternoon educational program is the culture of indigenous people. The venue for the study will be the Museum of Anthropology, a spectacular building on the campus of the University of British Columbia overlooking mountains and sea. This museum is Canada’s largest teaching museum. Its collections, exhibitions and programs are renowned for providing insight into the cultures of indigenous peoples around the world.
 Dinner: Dinner at the hotel.
 Evening: Following dinner, the remainder of the evening is free to explore Vancouver on your own. For a list of what's on, check www.tourismvancouver.com.
   
Accommodations: Best Western Sands by the Sea
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 14: The Evolution of Vancouver/Vancouver's West End/Farewell Dinner
(Thursday, October 3)

Note: The morning walking field trip to/from and through Stanley Park will be approximately 2 miles or 3.22 km over relatively flat terrain.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: PRESENTATION: Vancouver is Canada's gateway to the Pacific Ocean. The morning lectures conducted by a local historian consider the evolution of this dynamic city from a social, ethnic, and economic perspective. FIELD TRIP: Discover Vancouver's West End on a walking field trip with your instructor. You will visit the seawall walk in Stanley Park, with its impressive totem poles. Famous for its majestic wilderness in downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park spreads over 1000 acres and is the largest urban park on the continent.
 Lunch: Lunch at the hotel.
 Afternoon: The afternoon is yours to continue your exploration of Vancouver.
 Dinner: Farewell dinner at the Fish House in Stanley Park. Surrounded by Stanley Park's lush greenery, the Fish House overlooks panoramic English Bay and the spectacular gardens and forests of Stanley Park.
 Evening: Free evening to relax at the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Best Western Sands by the Sea
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Independent Departures
(Friday, October 4)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: Breakfast is scheduled at 8:00 a.m. Independent departures after breakfast from hotel. Check-out is 12:00 p.m.
   
Meals Included: Breakfast
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


Trans-Canada Rail Guide


Author: Melissa Graham


Description: GUIDEBOOK, 2010, PAPERBACK, 256 PAGES A compact, kilometer-by-kilometer guide to the 4,000-mile rail journey across North America from Halifax to Vancouver (including spur lines to Churchill and Prince Rupert). With 30 maps of cities and town en route, brief descriptions of major attractions and much information on the railroad itself. 4th edition. (CND04, $22.95)



Alberta Wildlife


Author: James Kavanagh


Description: FIELD GUIDE, 2005, PLASTIC CARD A fold-up, laminated card featuring color drawings and short descriptions of commonly encountered wildlife in Alberta. (CND279, $5.95)



The National Dream, The Great Railway, 1871 to 1881


Author: Pierre Berton


Description: HISTORY, 2002, PAPERBACK, 456 PAGES Part one of the great Berton's exhilarating account of the boldest project in Canadian history, the building of the transcontinental railroad, from idea to the start of construction. (CND178, $24.95)



Canada by Train, The Complete Via Rail Travel Guide


Author: Chris Hanus


Description: GUIDEBOOK, 2009, PAPER, 320 PAGES Full of useful facts and vivid photographs, this comprehensive guide features 500 full-color illustrations and photographs; updated information on schedules, fares and pass options; mile-by-mile route guides; practical suggestions on traveling light, settling in sleepers and coaches; and much more. (CND355, $26.95)



Fodor's Montreal's 25 Best


Author: Fodor's


Description: GUIDEBOOK, 2011, PAPER, 128 PAGES A shirt-pocket guide to Montreal, this slim book includes an excellent map of the center of the city and essential information on its highlights, including restaurant recommendations and sightseeing -- all in a slipcover. (CND41, $11.99)



Rails Across Canada


Author: Tom Murray


Description: HISTORY, 2011, HARD COVER, 320 PAGES In this marvelously illustrated history, author Tom Murray provides readers with an engaging look at the railroad whose own history is, in many ways, the history of Canada itself. Author Tom Murray presents fastidiously researched and concisely presented histories of each railroad, along with more than 300 photographs, including rare archival black-and-white images and modern and period color photography sourced from national archives and private collections. (CND354, $30.00



The Canadian Landscape


Author: J.A. Kraulis


Description: NATURAL HISTORY, 2004, PAPERBACK, 160 PAGES A portfolio of 150 striking color photographs from Atlantic Canada to Vancouver, with accompanying text in English and French. (CND220, $24.95)





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