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Best of Western Canada
14 DAYS FROM £1870
This was to have been our holiday last August, but we were caught up in the security chaos at Heathrow and British Airways did not manage to get us to our plane. Consequently, we waited almost 2 years for the holiday, and were delighted to finally arrive in Vancouver, this time with Air Canada.
It was very reassuring and helpful this time to be approached by an Archers representative at the entrance to Terminal 3.
In Canada we were very impressed with our Tour Manager, Vedrana Ashcroft, who was a mine of information on the areas we covered and was extremely well organised and hard working.
We booked several optional excursions and had a very full schedule.
We understand that this holiday is running in the opposite direction next year, which seems a shame as it works very well this way round, with Victoria and Vancouver at the end. Also, maybe the tour needs to be longer as it was quite rushed and you would also have very little time in Vancouver if you did not book the 2-day extension.
These are just suggestions for improving the tour - we still had an excellent time.
Thank you again and perhaps you could pass on our thanks and good wishes to Vedrana.
One last thing, could we please have a copy of next year's brochure so we can start looking again?!
We were very anxious this year after the problems we encountered last August but this time everything went according to plan. We were met at Heathrow by one of your representatives who made sure we knew where to check in with Air Canada, the flights were good and the rest of the tour was excellent. Our tour leader Vedrana Ashcroft was first class, very knowledgeable and extremely conscientious.
This was our third Archers long-haul holiday and will definitely not be our last (funds permitting!!)
Once again, many thanks for an excellent holiday.
The Plaza was a 4 star status one we asked for 3 beds in the room and then had a z bed/cot as they call it sent up within 5 mins and we are of different types and sleeping is just not us with one another no matter the room was very clean and very comfortable, we were road side but the view was very nice looking over Vancouver from West Broadway and we had fun that after noon getting a taxi to the town for a walk about, looking for the steam clock which never chimed when it should have done but anyway we had a meal right by it and it did its thing. We were up for breakfast in the hotel far too much to eat but then you never know when your next meal is with them, we had fun deciding on the portions and still had a lot .We met the coach and our driver Peter, very quiet man but a great person in the future of the tour and kept us all on track.
We headed for Vernon stopping on the way for coffee at Hope, yes it was not all lost Hope I mean, a one horse town with some very nice wooden carvings of bears and eagles and in the high street a photo occasion and we were on our way after 45 mins, it was an easy place to unwind and get to see the others on the trip, not a lot said as yet to them all. We arrived at Banff, wow really great real Canada, however the town was being dug up for laying of a new sewer pipe water and some other things, the fences up and down the high street never gave it the appeal that it said in the brochure but it was Canada and we just got on with looking through the dirty shop windows and tried to bear the noise of the HGV 's in the roads and the drilling, we did the Native Indian shop over the bridge and river and the museum next door very nice and sad as well. We were back at the hotel for the next bit later had to go by taxi, just down the road we were told but it was about 3 miles, never mind was only $10 and between the 3 of us was fine, when you are over 65 and 70 its along way to walk in 85o F but we did good. We went to lakes over rivers and saw waterfalls, it was so cool to be away and the driver was superb at the twisty turns and high roads that were scary at looking down.
All the hotels were great except Jasper, a very old hotel no lifts and no real air conditioning so we suffered but it was fun and the town was good for food and some real great sights. We did the Colombia Ice field, really fun and how it all got there is a mystery, yes I know its ice and snow but 1000 ft thick and never melting in 85 o F makes you thing doesn't it. Lake Louise for a coffee break, wow what a place and how super to have stopped there but 1 hr and some more photos and we were off again, such a great place for another holiday. The train trip to Prince Rupert was cloudy but interesting as we got nearer it was later and later, pity it is not the other way round but it seems it has been changed for this next booklet, wonderful hotel, Eagles like Sparrows everywhere wow never seen so many fishing all at once all around the bay makes you wonder where they all nest. The hotel was wonderful great breakfast and lunch menu and we really enjoyed the walk around the place, visited a fishing warehouse unloading crabs it was different and interesting.
Caught the Ferry to Port Hardy 15 hrs, we got a cabin for $90 well worth it somewhere to lay down and enjoy yourself alone the windows were big and we could watch the world go by at ease. I must say it was all go but really enjoyable .We did the option of the extra 3 days at Whistler Mountain, wonderful train trip, lots of sights, however the hotel Listel was not very pleasant we arrived at 12.30 midday to be told the room would not be ready till 4.00 pm as they were full the night before, who cares we had to wait, so we did the town and then came back to be told that they were ready at 3.00 pm but they wanted a credit card just in case of accidents, never asked in all the other hotels but it was handed over, the man was rather rude but the he could have been having a bad day, we went to the room to find only 2 large beds, now this is the but, Archers had arranged 3 beds only for us at the hotel when asked about them they said we do not do cots, z beds or extras in the room, but Archers had arranged it, no they did not, but we have it on the confirmation form, well tuff they do extra beds and he just walked away, so I asked for an extra Duvet and some blankets and slept for 2 nights on the floor, and this was hospitality from a hotel in the mountains dealing with customers only visiting them, after 2 days we had had enough and we wanted to leave.
We did the mountain cable car and the shopping around the town but if you do not Skate board, ski, bike, hang glide then think about the 3 days there 1 day would have been enough really, the food was expensive, the coffee served with nothing but who is next and everything could have been bought better else where.
We arrived back in Vancouver exhausted but all in all the trip was well worth it. I have left out many other places as I m getting tired thinking of them, wonderful Victoria and lots of other places on the way, if you are ever thinking of a trip in Canada do take this one its wonderful and I can tell you worth all the tiredness and the sights and scenery.
All in all well done Archers it was a great holiday and I would recommend it to anyone to go on. We never saw 1 bear but then that is they way isn't it and after 7,900 photos to go through I have 3 dvds of pictures and some wonderful film of the country.
Join us on this exciting tour from British Columbia's coast, taking in an enchanting cruise through the Inside Passage, VIA Rail's Skeena Train and four magnificent national parks.
Holiday highlights
Vancouver City sightseeing
Victoria City sightseeing including visit to Butchart Gardens
Inside Passage Cruise
VIA Rail® Skeena Train - Totem Class Scenic train journey
Jasper Orientation tour
Columbia Icefield Snowcoach ride
Lake Louise
Banff National Park
Yoho National Park
Glacier National Park
Your Price Includes
Flights: UK - Vancouver - UK
Accommodation on tour in twin room with private facilities
Meals on tour 1 breakfast (B), 1 lunch (L), 1 dinner (D)
Professional tour director on tour and local representative's assistance at other times
Porterage at hotels during tour (for one suitcase per person)
Transfers between overseas airport and hotels
All local and airport taxes/service charges
Single share option no supplement to pay
Holiday Itinerary
DAY 1: UK - Vancouver.
Fly to Vancouver where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.
DAY 2: Vancouver - ferry crossing - Victoria. Included sightseeing.
Vancouver is one of the world's most stunning cities with majestic mountains at its back and the ocean at its feet. Our morning sightseeing focuses on Vancouver's Chinatown, Gastown, the beautiful beaches, harbour, and lovely Stanley Park. Afterwards, set sail across the Strait of Georgia through the spectacular Gulf Islands, an area known for its Mediterranean-like climate. Afternoon sightseeing in Victoria includes the world famous Butchart Gardens, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park with its unusual collection of totem poles.
DAY 3: Victoria.
Be sure to discover some of the attractions this splendid city has to offer, including the Royal British Columbia Museum, afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel, a whale watching cruise on the Strait of Juan de Fuca or shopping along Government Street. Tonight a unique and memorable way to experience Victoria is to join the fascinating optional excursion of Chinatown, one of the oldest in Canada. Enjoy dinner in a first class restaurant, and at dusk you will be lead through the narrow alleys by lanterns, to Bastion Square.
DAY 4: Victoria - Chemainus - Port Hardy.
An early departure from Victoria follows the eastern coastline of Vancouver Island, stopping at Chemainus, Canada's only permanent outdoor art gallery, where 32 murals depict the early pioneers. Continue on to the port of Campbell River, the 'salmon capital of the world'. It is here that anglers from around the continent congregate for the opportunity to catch some of the largest saltwater salmon.
DAY 5: Port Hardy - Inside Passage Cruise - Prince Rupert.
An early morning embarkation on BC Ferries for one of the world's most beautiful ocean voyages. The scenery is spectacular, with towering mountains, roaring waterfalls, endless islands, and virgin rainforest. Animal and marine life are abundant in the area, including sea lions, eagles, and porpoises. You may even spot a mighty Orca (killer whale). Late evening arrival in Prince Rupert.
Note: Crossing time through the Inside Passage takes approximately 15 hours.
DAY 6: Prince Rupert. Included orientation tour.
Depart for an orientation tour of Prince Rupert, a former tent town named after the first Governor of Hudson Bay Company, followed by a visit to the North Pacific Historic Fishing Village for a guided tour of British Columbia's oldest cannery village. Learn about the canning process and what life was like in the village during peak production earlier this century. As your afternoon is free, you may opt for an outing to learn the secrets of the totem. See totem poles being carved and visit a longhouse to gain a better understanding of the day-to-day lifestyles of the First Nations culture. This evening why not join our optional dinner outing that lets you experience the flavours and traditions of the North Coast?
DAY 7: Prince Rupert - VIA Rail® Skeena Train - Prince George.
This morning board VIA Rail®'s Skeena Train for the trip of a lifetime. The train heads through the majestic Coast Mountains following the mighty Skeena River, often referred to as the 'River of Mists' and concludes in the forestry capital of British Columbia - Prince George. The route retraces ancient First Nations trading routes and the paths of the earliest fur traders. Watch out for bald eagles, inquisitive black bears, moose, and other wildlife from the train's observation dome with its breathtaking 360-degree views. Travel in style in Totem De-Luxe class; breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included. Evening arrival in Prince George, formerly a fur trading post and now a thriving commercial centre. (B,L,D)
Note: Please note that VIA Rail® operates a No Smoking Policy.
DAY 8: Prince George - Mount Robson - Jasper.
Today we leave Prince George following the Fraser River to the base of Mount Robson, the highest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, peaking at 13,000 feet. Then it's onto Jasper National Park for an orientation tour and an overnight stay.
DAY 9: Jasper - Columbia Icefield - Lake Louise - Banff.
Our first stop today is Columbia Icefield for a snowcoach ride over the 1,200-foot-thick Athabasca Glacier. Another highlight on today's agenda is Lake Louise. Its cold waters are a perfect natural mirror reflecting the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Precipitous gorges, snow-capped mountain ranges, and lakes of exquisite blues and greens come into view as we journey south. Overnight in Banff, gateway to the majestic Canadian Rockies.
Note: Unfavourable weather conditions may affect the availability of the Columbia Icefield snowcoach excursion.
DAY 10: Banff.
Banff is one of Canada's favourite year-round resorts with summer activities including hiking, boating, horseback riding, and fishing. This morning why not choose an optional helicopter ride high over the Canadian Rockies or a thrilling gondola ride to Sulphur Mountain?
DAY 11: Banff - Yoho National Park - Glacier National Park - Vernon.
This morning enter the Yoho National Park, one of Canada's most popular recreational areas and site of pre-Cambrian fossil finds. We continue on to Glacier National Park, where the coach climbs to 4,379 feet-high Rogers Pass, a perfect spot for photos of the impressive steep mountain cliffs and glaciers. Overnight in Vernon.
DAY 12: Vernon - Cascade Mountains - Vancouver.
We travel west through the fertile Fraser Valley, then over the towering Cascade Mountains and north along the shores of magnificent Okanagan Lake with grand vistas of vineyards and orchards. Overnight in Vancouver.
DAY 13: Vancouver - UK.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK.
DAY 14: Home landing in the UK.
Maximum elevation on this tour is 7,500 ft.
Check prices and availability for this holiday
Accommodation on Tour
Vancouver: Park Inn & Suites Vancouver Broadway; Victoria: Embassy Inn; Port Hardy: Port Hardy Inn; Prince Rupert: Crest Hotel; Prince George: Sandman Inn; Jasper: Astoria; Banff: Spruce Grove Inn; Vernon: Village Inn.
Whale Watching
Enjoy a fascinating optional cruise from Victoria that will be remembered for a lifetime. Whilst watching for whales and marine life in their natural habitat you are likely to see the orca (killer whale), and perhaps spot porpoises, sea lions, osprey and eagles.
Trains
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View Holiday PhotosSkeena Train
Taking a fabulous journey, the Skeena Train travels between Prince Rupert on the Pacific Coast and Prince Rupert at the mouth of the Skeena River. Our holidays are based on Totem class, where you enjoy exclusive access to the Park car and its domed observatory. Take a seat in this upper deck to enjoy 360-degree views of the Rocky Mountains, crystal blue lakes, rushing rivers, lush forests, quaint villages and abundant wildlife indigenous to the region. Downstairs, in the congenial Bullet Lounge, you'll be able to share the pleasures of this trip with travellers from all over the world.
Holiday Extensions
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View Holiday PhotosBest of Western Canada + Vancouver - 2 Extra nights from £110
The Queen City of the Pacific offers fine dining and shopping in a setting of stunning natural beauty.
On day 13 of your tour, remain at your Vancouver hotel, the Park Inn & Suites Vancouver Broadway, for the next two nights, before transferring to the airport on day 15 for your overnight flight home. -
View Holiday PhotosBest of Western Canada + Whistler Mountaineer - 3 Extra nights from £234
On the morning of day 13 board the Whistler Mountaineer Northbound for a three-hour journey to Whistler. Enjoy the early morning views of downtown Vancouver and Stanley Park as the train hugs the scenic waterfront. An early afternoon arrival at the alpine resort of Whistler, nestled at the base of the breathtaking Blackcomb Mountain for the next two nights.
On day 15 board the Whistler Mountaineer Southbound for your return journey to Vancouver. Cross over the pinnacle of Brandywine Falls before descending a steep gradient through the Cheakamus Canyon, where the river below tumbles through a craggy gorge. Early evening arrival into Vancouver for your overnight stay. On day 16 transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home.
Your hotels: Whistler: Listel Hotel; Vancouver: Park Inn & Suites Vancouver Broadway.
Accommodation on Extensions
Best of Western Canada + Vancouver - 2 Extra nights from £110
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View Holiday PhotosPark Inn & Suites Vancouver Broadway
Park Inn & Suites Vancouver Broadway is in a prime location, minutes from a variety of restaurants and shops in Chinatown and Gastown, with terrific views of the city skyline and North Shore mountains.
Location: On Broadway, within easy walking distance of South Granville district, Granville island, or a short taxi/transit ride to the heart of downtown.
Facilities: Restaurant; high speed internet; fitness centre; laundry service; coin operated laundry facility.
Price includes: Room with private facilities; air-conditioning; coffee/tea-maker; hairdryer; iron/ironing board; TV.
Best of Western Canada + Whistler Mountaineer - 3 Extra nights from £234
Hotels
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Listel Whistler
Located in the truly world class year round resort of Whistler, the Listel Whistler offers guests everything for a comfortable stay, within stepping distance of all that the resort has to offer.
Location: Centrally located in Whistler Village, the hotel is a short walk from world class shopping, restaurants, pubs and activities, including a golf course and the Whistler Mountain Gondola.
Facilities: Bistro & Wine Bar with secluded cigar room; heated outdoor swimming pool; outdoor open-air jacuzzi; sauna; laundry and valet service.
Price includes: Room with private facilities; small fridge; cable TV; clock/radio; coffee/tea-making facilities; phones; iron/ironing board; in-room safes; hairdryer.
Trains
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View Holiday PhotosWhistler Mountaineer
The Quintessential Canadian West Coast Experience
The Whistler Mountaineer takes a three hour premier journey that links two world-class destinations - Vancouver and Whistler - in British Columbia.
Our prices are based on Coast Classic service, however we highly recommend that you upgrade to Glacier Dome service as it is truly worth the £49 per person supplement.
All guests will have access to the open-air observation car, offering fresh air and unrestricted views of the spectacular scenery.Coast Classic Experience: Each rail car has panoramic views through picture windows, assigned, spacious, comfortable reclining seats with extended legroom, service and interpretative commentary by knowledgeable and friendly Onboard Attendants. The carriages are fully-air-conditioned.
Meals: Light meal and beverage service will be provided.
Luggage: Bags will be checked at the Vancouver and Whistler train stations and taken by ground transportation to your destination. You should carry on board with you any essentials needed for your journey.
General: Whistler Mountaineer operates a no smoking policy.
Upgrade to the Glacier Dome Experience:
Each rail car has panoramic 360 views from full length dome windows, custom-designed single-level dome coach, plus upgraded meal service and complimentary beverages.
View My Holiday Photos
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NO HIDDEN EXTRAS: All
prices shown include ALL compulsory charges (Fuel Supplement,
Air Passenger Duty & Flight Supplement where applicable)
Book with confidence: We are members of ABTA and all our holidays are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme. |
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