Issue link: http://read.canadatravelguides.ca/i/651528
TRAVEL GUIDE TO CANADA I t was the deal that built a country: link the west to the Maritimes by rail so freight could be moved and British Columbia would join Confederation. The Fathers of Confederation couldn't refuse, and so, in the late 1800s, a railway was built. Nothing like the promise of business to get a country built! Intended to handle freight, the railway soon became popular with European tourists eager to explore the New World. Passenger travel quickly became as impor- tant as freight, since the train was the only way to see most of Canada. Capitalizing on the sudden popularity, the Canadian Pacifi c Railway Company built glamorous hotels in the style of European châteaux conve- niently near the train tracks. The stylish accommodation and almost magical travel capacity gave birth to a thriving Canadian rail tourism industry. That same rail tourism still fl ourishes in Canada, with trains remaining a top choice of discerning travellers eager to see otherwise inaccessible parts of the country. Trains are the only means to see parts of the Far North and are by far the most comfortable way to cross vast stretches of prairie, view the Rocky Mountains, and explore Canada's remote beauty. VIA RAIL F or travellers looking for effi cient and environmentally friendly transportation, VIA Rail is a popular choice. With the support of the Government of Canada, a major modernization program has greatly enhanced the VIA Rail experience includ- ing upgrades to the Business class service on the Québec City-Windsor corridor route, which now offers refurbished lounges, a more spacious on-board environment, a greener and more comfortable trip, new meals and more personalized service. WiFi accessibility has also been extended to include the Ocean eastern overnight long-haul service travelling between Montréal, QC and Halifax, NS. VIA Rail offers some of Canada's most scenic travel experiences such as the Canadian, a cross-country service linking Toronto and Vancouver that is one of the world's most legendary and popular long-haul rail journeys. Combining breathtaking landscapes, cozy accommoda- tions, attentive and courteous service and outstanding dining, this train welcomes more than 100,000 travellers every year. For day-trippers, the Québec City- Windsor corridor is perfect for experiencing some of the country's most vibrant cities. Every year, Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal and Québec City come alive with iconic festivals and events featuring top talent from around the world, and VIA Rail Canada makes getting there part of the thrill. Plan to "festi- val hop" from city to city to experience some of Canada's many great events. If unspoiled nature is your passion, travel by train between Jasper National Park and the rugged North Pacifi c Coast of Prince Rupert, BC. This two-day journey winds along the Skeena River providing incredible wildlife viewing of grizzlies, black bears, moose, bald eagles, elk and mountain sheep. Explore Prince Rupert's remarkable Museum of Northern BC which houses the fascinating history, culture and art of the Northwest Coast in a traditional longhouse, and visit the Khutzeymateen grizzly bear sanctuary. Via raiL CanaDa Via raiL CanaDa