Travelling By Train in Canada

Canadian trains are nationally owned and operated by VIA Rail Canada. The train lines offer scenic trips across Canada as well as between cities. VIA has two types of trains; the regional, and the trans-national "Canadian."

The regional trains are just the regular "run of the mill' trains which offer commuters an alternative to driving between Canada's major eastern cities; Quebec City, Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto.

The trans-national "Canadian" is a custom made train that has been fitted to provide some comfort for the long distance travellers. It is sometimes called the silver bullet for its sleek stainless-steel design that sort of resembles the old concept cars of the forties.

The train is outfitted with private compartments that offer single or double beds, private showers, and toilets. There is also a dining room that is reserved for first-class travellers.

The coach section of the train is less comfortable, with reclining seats that are similar to those on an airplane. No matter what class ticket you have each class has its own access to the Skyline car, an observatory that sits outside the top of the train giving its visitors a panoramic view of scenic Canada.

VIA is not a children friendly environment. Siting for long periods of time can be hard on the meekest of kids. Other than running up and down the aisle, there is not much else to do.

VIA has attempted to curb this delema by offering colouring/activity books, which are nothing more than corperate propeganda. They advertise that they now offer film viewings that only take place in the mornings and evenings.

VIA now offers wireless internet connection, a great advantage for people who don't like to get behind on their work.

• The train is never on time.
• You could be delayed for hours at a time because of some debris on the track.
• Sitting for long periods of time.
• Whether you have children or not you will be annoyed by the restless kids running around.
• Lack of comfort for coach class.
• More expensive than bus, which is more reliable and faster.

• You get to see Canada from a perspective only rail can offer.
• The first-class compartments are very comfortable and private.
• You get to meet people and interact with fellow travellers.
• The staff are polite and courteous.
• Large luggage hold, for those die-hard camper/adventurers who like to be dropped off in the middle of nowhere.

Although I had a wonderful time seeing Canada from a completely different perspective, I wouldn't do it again. The train is almost never on time, sometimes being over ten hours late. The trip is long and discouraging, especially at times when the train is crawling at a snails pace. Not being able to bathe for the duration of the trip is another turn off, and the food is expensive and not very good.

The only advantage to travelling by train is the scenery and the people you meet. The view of Canada from the trains perspective is picturesque and being in confined quarters for three days tends to help even the most introverted people make friends.

If I had to take the train again I would have to insist on reserving a private compartment, which are equipped with its own bed, toilet and shower.