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Best of Western Canada
14 DAYS FROM £2020

This holiday has departures available between: 13th Sep 2010 to 22nd Sep 2011
802Mrs Mary MaddenBurgess Hill, West Sussex We returned on 18th August from our Best of Western Canada holiday and have just found time to write and thank you for a really enjoyable trip.

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?! yes1802Sue & John BancroftWest Sussex We have just returned from the above holiday and would like to say how much we enjoyed it. Last year we had the unfortunate experience of missing the same holiday because of the increased airport security when the British Airways flight left without most of its passengers and Archers were brilliant in letting us rebook the holiday or having a full refund.

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. no1
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Join us on this exciting tour from British Columbia's coast, taking in an enchanting cruise through the Inside Passage, VIA Rail's Jasper-Prince Rupert train and four magnificent national parks.

All this included

Vancouver City sightseeing
Victoria City sightseeing including visit to Butchart Gardens
Inside Passage Cruise
VIA Rail® Jasper-Prince Rupert Train - Touring Class Scenic train journey
Jasper Orientation tour
Columbia Icefield Snowcoach ride
Lake Louise
Banff National Park
Yoho National Park
Glacier National Park

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.
Vancouver is one of the world's most stunning cities with majestic mountains at its back and the ocean at its feet. Your morning sightseeing focuses on Chinatown, Gastown, the beautiful beaches, harbour, and Stanley Park. Afterwards, set sail across the Strait of Georgia through the spectacular Gulf Islands. Afternoon sightseeing in Victoria includes the world famous Butchart Gardens, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park.

DAY 3: Victoria.
Be sure to discover more of this splendid city, such as the Royal British Columbia Museum, a whale watching cruise or shopping along Government Street. A unique and memorable way to experience Victoria is the optional excursion to Chinatown, with dinner. 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 coastline of Vancouver Island, stopping at Chemainus, Canada's only permanent outdoor art gallery. Continue on to the port of Campbell River, the 'salmon capital of the world', where anglers have 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, islands, and virgin rainforest. Animal and marine life are abundant, and depending on the season, you may spot sea lions, eagles, porpoises, and Orca (killer whale). Late evening arrival in Prince Rupert.
Note: Crossing time through the Inside Passage takes approximately 15 hours.

DAY 6: Prince Rupert.
Depart for an orientation tour of Prince Rupert, a former tent town named after the first Governor of the 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. As the afternoon is free, you may opt for an outing to see totem poles being carved.

DAY 7: Prince Rupert - VIA Rail® Jasper-Prince Rupert train - Prince George.
This morning board VIA Rail®'s Jasper-Prince Rupert train for the trip of a lifetime. The train heads through the majestic Coast Mountains following the Skeena River, often referred to as the 'River of Mists' and concludes in the forestry capital of British Columbia - Prince George. 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 Touring 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.
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 - Banff.
First stop today is Columbia Icefield for a snowcoach ride over the 1000-foot-thick Athabasca Glacier. Later, precipitous gorges, snow-capped mountain ranges, and lakes of exquisite colour come into view on the 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 many summer activities including hiking and horseback riding. Or, how about an optional helicopter ride high over the Canadian Rockies or a thrilling gondola ride to Sulphur Mountain.

DAY 11: Banff - Lake Louise - Yoho National Park - Glacier National Park - Kelowna.
The first highlight is Lake Louise whose cold waters are a perfect natural mirror reflecting the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Afterwards, enter Yoho National Park, one of Canada's most popular recreational areas and site of pre-Cambrian fossils. Continue on to Glacier National Park, climbing the 4,379 feet-high Rogers Pass, a perfect spot for photos of the impressive steep mountain cliffs and glaciers. Overnight in Kelowna, set on the shores of Okanagan Lake.

DAY 12: Kelowna - Cascade Mountains - Vancouver.
Today travel through the fertile Fraser Valley, then over the towering Cascade Mountains to 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.

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Your Train

  • The scenic Skeena Train ride passing the Skeena River
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    Jasper-Prince Rupert Train

    Taking a fabulous journey, the Jasper-Prince Rupert train travels between Prince Rupert at the mouth of the Skeena River and the forestry capital of British Columbia, Prince George. Our holidays are based on Touring 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.

Accommodation on Tour

Vancouver: Ramada Inn & Suites; Victoria: Embassy Inn; Port Hardy: Port Hardy Inn; Prince Rupert: Crest Hotel; Prince George: Sandman Inn; Jasper: Marmot Lodge; Banff: Spruce Grove Inn; Kelowna: Sandman Hotel.

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.

Holiday Extensions

  • Vancouver
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    Best of Western Canada + Vancouver - 2 Extra nights from £120

    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 Ramada Inn & Suites, for the next two nights, before transferring to the airport on day 15 for your overnight flight home.

  • Scenic wonders with the Whistler Mountaineer
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    Best of Western Canada + Whistler Mountaineer - 3 Extra nights from £260

    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: Ramada Inn & Suites.

Accommodation on Extensions

Best of Western Canada + Vancouver - 2 Extra nights from £120

  • Ramada Inn & Suites
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    Ramada Inn & Suites Vancouver

    Conveniently located in the heart of Vancouver's vibrant entertainment district, you'll find a warm welcome awaits you. This makes a great base to explore this fascinating city.

    Location: Downtown, close to Vancouver's popular restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping. The Davie Village district and Yaletown are only a short 5 minute walk.
    Facilities: Morrissey's Irish House Restaurant; Ginger Sixty-Two Cocktail Den; money exchange; dry cleaning/laundry service; free high speed internet access; free pass to Fitness World nearby; safety deposit boxes.
    Price includes: Room with private facilities; air-conditioning; coffee-maker; cable TV; hairdryer; iron/ironing board.

Best of Western Canada + Whistler Mountaineer - 3 Extra nights from £260

Hotels

  • Listel Whistler DiamondDiamondDiamond

    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; tea/coffee maker; phones; iron/ironing board; in-room safes; hairdryer.

Trains

  • Whistler Mountaineer passing Howe Sound
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    Whistler Mountaineer

    The Whistler Mountaineer takes a three hour premier journey that links two world-class destinations - Vancouver and Whistler.
    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 extra cost (supplement starts from £65 per person). 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 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, upgraded meal service and complimentary beverages.

To help you plan and make the most of your holiday, below is a list optional excursions available to you.

Best of Western Canada

Marine And Wildlife Whale Watching

Whale watching is an experience many say they will never forget. Spend two to three hours cruising the waters of the beautiful San Juan and Gulf islands, looking for whales, porpoises, seals, and eagles. A marine biologist will be on hand to answer all your questions. Bring your camera and your excitement because this will be a trip you will remember forever!
$100.00 (CAD)

Chinatown Dinner And Lantern Walk

A fascinating tour of Chinatown, one of the oldest in Canada. Your expert local guide will offer you the opportunity to learn about the "East meets West" portals. Themes range from Feng Shui and the Chinese Zodiac to Brave Pioneers and World Developments. Food sampling along the way with dinner in a first-class restaurant. Finally, at dusk you will be given lanterns and lead through the narrow alleys to Bastion Square. A very unique and memorable way to experience Victoria.
$74.00 (CAD)

Victoria Panorama

This half-hour flight is an ideal introduction to seaplane aviation and includes spectacular vistas of downtown Victoria, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca with the Olympic Mountains in the distance. Enjoy unique views of the buildings ringing the harbour and grand houses perched above the rugged coastline. The exhilarating spray of the water is always a highlight during take-off and landing.
$104.00 (CAD)

Seaplane Flight To The Valley Of The Grizzly Bear

Floatplane is the only way to truly appreciate the awe-inspiring scenery of "Beautiful British Columbia". This journey will take you through some of Mother Nature's greatest work. Fly over the pristine wilderness of the Khutzeymateen Valley, this valley is home to the largest population of grizzly bears in the world. Your flight will include magnificent scenery; lush rainforest, deep valleys, rugged mountain fjords and spectacular glaciers. Pass cascading waterfalls, winding rivers and remote freshwater lakes. Photographers be ready as you may see wildlife such as eagles, mountain goats, seals, porpoises or whales. Your flight will set down in a majestic inlet where you will float alongside a glacial waterfall as it plunges down the rocky mountain fjord. This flight seeing experience is a "must see". Flight is one-hour with a 10-minute stop at a waterfall.
$325.00 (CAD)

Discover Prince Rupert Flightseeing

This 30 minute flight is an ideal introduction to seaplane aviation and a fantastic way to discover Prince Rupert¿s past, present and future. Depart Seal Cove Seaplane Base over the reversing tidal rapids at Morse Basin ¿ ¿Butze Rapids¿. Fly to the mighty Skeena River; enjoy the spectacular scenery as you follow this magnificent river. Sternwheelers once frequented this busy waterway, which was scattered with settlements, trading posts, stores and seven canneries ¿ ¿Cannery Row¿. Pass the grain & coal port terminals located at Ridley Island, these first class facilities are world leaders in the movement of grain & coal. See the newest container port being build constructed on the West Coast of North America. This ¿State of the Art¿ port development is poised to open a new trade corridor with the Asian Pacific market. Pass the active marine waterfront and the largest salmon processing cannery in North America. This journey is complete with a spectacular view of Prince Rupert / Kaien Island.
$160.00 (CAD)

Flavours & Traditions Of The North Coast People Tour

Enjoy a short walk to the Museum of Northern British Columbia, the Tsimshian program begins with a tour of the collection focusing on the Feast, or potlatch. Hear about the complex protocol of feasting and view works of art, the ceremonial regalia that brings this important First Nations institution to life. Your tour continues on to the "Wiiwaabm Ts'msyeen" (Tsimshian Longhouse), a few minutes from the museum, where you will enter as if you were guests at a feast. Witness dancing and performance, hear ancient stories and songs, and taste indigenous foods. Your tour continues to the Waterfront Restaurant located in the Crest Hotel, where you will experience an exclusive north coast dinner menu while enjoying a spectacular view of Prince Rupert's Harbour.
$88.00 (CAD)

Jasper Raft On The Athabasca River

Follow the route of the old fur traders while traveling down the Athabasca River in rubber rafts. The excursion is under the supervision of experienced guides who will also point out the natural and human history of the area. This is a moderate trip with a few easy sets of rapids (class II) and calm stretches; guides do all the rowing so you can sit back & enjoy the majestic scenery. A truly remarkable way to experience Jasper! (Subject to favorable weather and water conditions.)
$58.00 (CAD)

Maligne Lake Cruise To Spirit Island

A forty-five minute drive takes you to beautiful Maligne Lake. Enjoy the ninety-minute narrated cruise, with a brief stop at Spirit Island for photos of the magnificent mountains that surround you. Learn of the local history, geology, wildlife and glaciology of Maligne Lake and of Jasper National Park as some of the most spectacular scenery in the Rockies drift past your window. Note: subject to conditions on the lake, may not be available in April, May and October tours.
$55.00 (CAD)

Banff Gondola

A scenic 8-minute Gondola ride will give you 360 panoramic views of Banff, the Bow Valley and the Rocky Mountains. Witness the breathtaking views in every direction or go up into the restaurant area where you can sit in comfort and still admire the view. Above the restaurant level is the upper observation deck for the best view yet! Afterwards, we'll visit thundering Bow Falls where plenty of great photo opportunities await you.
$31.00 (CAD)

Royal Canadian Helicopter Tour

This 25-minute helicopter flight offers a magnificent overview of the Rocky Mountains and the Banff area. The Olympic Nordic Center, Sundance Range, and Spray Lakes are just some of the highlights you will see. Additional helicopter excursions available; please consult your Tour Director.
$230.00 (CAD)

Oh Canada Eh?! Dinner Show

Come join a fun-filled musical celebration of Canada, featuring totally Canadian music in a log cabin type building. During the show, costumed performers also serve a five course family style dinner. Everything about this award winning show is Canadian.
$62.00 (CAD)

Sunset Dinner Cruise

It's like dining in a restaurant which looks out onto all of Vancouver's finest views. Enjoy a 2.5 hour leisurely cruise past the downtown skyline, the cruise ship terminal of Canada Place, the Mountains behind the North Shore, the West Vancouver shoreline and more. Take in the sights and sounds of the city as you enjoy live music and delicious West Coast-themed cuisine. You'll have the best spot in Vancouver to watch the sun slowly disappear into the Pacific Ocean. (Includes transportation)
$105.00 (CAD)
Please note that optional excursions and prices are subject to change.
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