UNCOMMON
Canadian Rockies
The Ultimate Western Canada Adventure By Rail
Departing Once Only! September 18 - 28, 2014 11 Days From $4,295 per person With Visits To Seattle Victoria Whistler Quesnel Jasper National Park Maligne Canyon Maligne Lake Tour Going To The Sun Highway Athabasca Glacier
Banff Lake Louise
“Named as one of the World’s Greatest Trips.”
Moraine Lake Valley OF The Ten Peaks Calgary
HIGHLIGHTS: Having offered hundreds of Canadian Rockies holidays over 25 years, we set out to design a unique and brilliant holiday like none we had offered before. The result is our Uncommon Canadian Rockies and even if you have done the Canadian Rockies before in the 'standard' manner, this is a truly uncommon and delightful twist on it. We begin in Seattle, with an overnight stay at the classic Mayflower Park Hotel, not only does it have the best location in town but Oliver's Bar, with oversized martinis, high ceilings and huge windows looking out. While in Seattle we visit the Boeing Factory where jumbo jets are made before sailing to very British Victoria with its hanging flower baskets, grand Empress Hotel, Parliament Buildings and fine shopping. Our guests enjoy two full nights in this historic outpost of Empire with time to enjoy its many delights including a visit to Butchart Gardens followed by that most Canadian of treats, Afternoon Tea with cream cakes and scones. Then we sail through the Gulf Islands to the mainland for an overnight stay in the alpine resort village of Whistler with plenty of free time to savor this lovely setting before the highlight of our journey, a two-day rail passage from Whistler to Jasper in the Canadian Rockies aboard the Rocky Mountaineer train. This journey is a visual feast taking us through lush rainforests, the Coast Mountains with its canyons and high bridges, and onto the Caribou Plateau. We pause for the evening in the Gold Rush town of Quesnel where a comfortable hotel awaits so our guests do not miss a mile of scenery, traveling at night. The following morning, we roll east over the Canadian National Railway through the Rocky Mountain Trench and past Mt Robson at 13,000 feet as we travel into the Rocky Mountain Range. Upon arrival in Jasper we savor two nights in this quaint village with spectacular sightseeing included before traveling over the stunning Icefields Parkway to Banff where three nights is enjoyed. In addition to the Sno-coach ride atop Athabasca Glacier, our lucky guests will visit Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Sulphur Mountain and Banff Hot Springs, to name a few of the peak sites we will visit. As always, fine dining is featured including lunch at the storied Banff Springs Hotel, brunch at Chateau Lake Louise and a Farewell Dinner at a long-time Uncommon Journeys tradition, Le Beaujolais in Banff, a favorite of the Royal Family. With Seattle, Victoria, Whistler, an uncommon routing into the Rockies (with no overnight sleeping on the train!), Jasper and Banff, this is a remarkable holiday and will sell out quickly. We invite you to join us.
The Victoria Clipper
Fully hosted from start to finish by a professional tour manager to handle all the details.
Overnight stay in Seattle at the classic Mayflower Park Hotel in the heart of downtown along with time to explore the Emerald City. We have included a visit to the Boeing Factory and you will see where the huge jets are made.
Travel aboard the Victoria Clipper to Victoria, BC where our guests enjoy the luxury of a two night stay, also downtown near the famed Parliament Building and Royal British Columbia Museum. We have included a visit to Butchart Gardens along with Afternoon Tea in this lovely setting.
Overnight stay in beautiful Whistler with plenty of time to enjoy this gorgeous mountain resort town at the superb Hilton Whistler Resort.
The Rocky Mountaineer train from Whistler to Jasper over a spectacular trip through rain forests, the Coast Range Mountains, the gold country of interior British Columbia where we follow valleys cleaved by white water, before ascending the Rockies and passing Mount Robson, a glorious two-day journey. We pause for the evening in Quesnel, BC where a nice hotel awaits so not a mile of spectacular scenery is missed at night.
Two nights stay in Jasper, our favorite village in the Canadian Rockies with complete touring including Maligne Canyon and Maligne Lake where we enjoy the boat cruise to Spirit Island.
The Icefields Parkway from Jasper to Banff, frequently considered the most scenic drive in North America. En route, we stop at massive Athabasca Glacier for a Sno-coach ride onto the actual glacier.
Three night stay in the heart of Banff Township at the Banff Park Lodge with extensive sightseeing here including the famed Gondo la Ride up Sulphur Mountain, Banff Hot Springs, Cascade Gardens and much more.
Memorable dining including lunch at the Banff Springs Hotel one day, brunch at stunning Chateau Lake Louise and a special farewell dinner at Le Beaujolais in Banff, a favorite of the Royal Family.
Going To The Sun Highway
The Rocky Mountaineer
Athabasca Glacier Sno-Coach Ride
ITINERARY DAY 1: Seattle D Guests arrive in Seattle today and transfer to the Mayflower Park Hotel, a small boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Seattle. Tonight is a special 'Welcome Dinner,' a chance to meet fellow travelers.
relax and enjoy the scenery as we roll North & East from the lush Coast Mountains through majestic canyons, Fraser Canyon and into the rich lands of the Caribou Plateau. Our overnight stop is the gold pan city of Quesnel, at the junction of the Quesnel & Fraser Rivers.
DAY 6: Quesnel to Jasper, AB BL Another early morning departure, but worth the early rise. Today we will continue our journey through the Rocky Mountain Trench and some magnificent scenery into Jasper National Park. En-route we will pass Mt. Robson, at 12,972 feet, in the Rocky Mountain Range, one of the most prominent mountains in the Canadian Rockies. Upon arrival we will transfer to our hotel for the next two evenings. You might enjoy a short walk to DAY 3: Victoria, B. C. B AT After breakfast we will enjoy an informative tour of the explore the Jasper Township for a bite to eat . BL Parliament Buildings and the Royal British Columbia DAY 7: Jasper Museum. Of course, later today, a visit to Butchart A mid-morning departure for a tour of Jasper before Gardens followed by Afternoon Tea. We will return to visiting the longest, deepest and most interesting Victoria this afternoon allowing you time to explore limestone canyon in the Canadian Rockies, Maligne Government Street for that special souvenir, or explore Canyon. Enjoy a stroll along the canyon before our lunch in the café. After lunch we continue to Maligne Lake for the lobby and shops of the Empress Hotel. a one hour boat cruise, stopping at one of the most DAY 4: Victoria to Whistler BL This morning we board a BC ferry for the 90 minute photographed spots in the Rockies, Spirit Island. We cruise through the beautiful Gulf Islands to Horseshoe return to Jasper in the afternoon, giving you more time Bay. We travel on the Sea to Sky Highway north to the to explore the town. DAY 2: Seattle, Boeing tour - Victoria BD After breakfast at the hotel, we will drive north to Everett, WA and the Boeing manufacturing facility. After lunch w return to Seattle for the 3 hour catamaran trip through Puget Sound to Victoria, B.C., our home for the next two nights. During the night the Parliament Buildings light up the sky with over 3,300 light bulbs causing a magical spell.
mountain resort town of Whistler. Our hotel, the Hilton Whistler Resort, is located right on the promenade of Whistler. You'll have time to explore the village, home of the 2010 winter Olympics. Dinner this evening will be on your own to stroll town or dine at the hotel in the Cinnamon Bear Grille. DAY 5: Whistler to Quesnel, B. C. BL We have a morning departure from Whistler. Sit back,
REDLEAF
DAY 8: Jasper to Banff BL Have your camera ready, today you will travel the length of the Icefields Parkway, considered the most scenic 140 miles in the world. The Parkway runs from Jasper to Lake Louise and is named for the Columbia Icefields. A highlight will be a journey by Sno-Coach onto the Athabasca Glacier where you have a chance to walk on ice, safely of course. In late afternoon we check in the Banff Park Lodge.
$4,295 pp
Enjoy the commentary and service by your Host, with meals served at your seat. Large picture windows Roomy, reclining seats Chilled meals served at your seat Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and snacks Overnight accommodation in popular hotel (Quesnel)
GOLDLEAF
DAY 9: Banff BL This morning we will enjoy a sightseeing tour of Banff to familiarize you with what you may wish to do later followed by the gondola up Sulphur Mountain for a magnificent view of the mountains and the surrounding area. We have a treat in store today; lunch at the famous Banff Springs Hotel. When the Canadian Pacific Railway was coming West, they built this hotel, saying that since they ”could not export the scenery, they would import tourists.” You'll have the remainder of the day to further explore Banff. If you brought your swim suit, you may wish to indulge in a dip in the Banff Hot Springs before returning to town. Or, you might wish to relax at our hotel and use their hot tub and pool. Dinner this evening is at your leisure. DAY 10: Banff, Lake Louise BD For breakfast this morning we have quite a treat: Chateau Lake Louise where you will enjoy their famous breakfast buffet. We'll give you time to explore the hotel, perhaps walk along the lake shore, or just take in the scenery. Later we will visit Moraine Lake and the Valley of Ten Peaks. This afternoon we return to Banff where you may visit the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, one of our favorites. Our Farewell Dinner this evening will be at the acclaimed Le Beaujolais for a grand dining experience at our favorite restaurant and a favorite of the Royal family. Enjoy! DAY 11: Journey Home B Enjoy breakfast before our departure for Calgary, arriving by 11am where easy connections can be made for all US Points.
$5,295 pp
The luxury and comfort is simply beyond compare. No wonder this is our our most popular service. Large picture windows Roomy, reclining seats Chilled meals served at your seat Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and snacks Overnight accommodation in popular hotel (Quesnel)
333 South Indian Canyon Dr., Suite H Palm Springs CA 92262 www.PS-Uncommonjourneys.com Ph, 760.424.2205 CST 2082870-40
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Please read carefully as cancellation penalties do apply. RESERVATION INFORMATION: Fares and Itineraries listed in this brochure are those in effect at time of printing. All prices listed are in US Dollars. Upon receipt of your deposit, either by phone or by mail, your reservation in confirmed. A 35% deposit of the Total Fare is required to confirm reservations aboard any tour or program. After 5 days, confirmed reservations without deposit will be automatically cancelled by our reservations system. Final Payment is due 90 days prior to the departure date and no later than 75 days prior to tour departure. Payment by American Express, VISA, MasterCard, Discover Card, or check is accepted. Your verbal authorization of the use of your credit card indicates your compliance with our booking terms and conditions and confirms your reservation whether or not you have actually signed the appropriate draft. Uncommon Journeys is not responsible for payment made to Travel Agents but not received by Uncommon Journeys. Bookings are subject to cancellation if deposit or final payment is not received by the due dates. LATE BOOKINGS: Depending upon available space, bookings can be made up until three days prior to departure. Reservations which are made within 75 days of departure require payment in full at the time of booking. CANCELLATION INFORMATION: Cancellation penalties do apply and for this reason trip cancellation insurance is recommended. Trip insurance is available at a modest cost and additional information may be obtained from your travel professional or the insurance carrier of your choice. We strongly suggest that you purchase travel insurance to cover 100% of your tour cost as there are no exceptions to the cancellation penalties. The following cancellation penalties apply should you have to cancel for any reason, including medical, once deposit has been made: Cancellations after deposit has been made but prior to final payment are subject to a $750.00 per person penalty: cancellations 60-75 days prior to departure are subject to a 40% penalty of the Total Fare: cancellations 30-59 days prior to sailing are subject to a 80% penalty of the Total Fare: cancellations 15-29 days prior to sailing are subject to 90% penalty of the Total Fare: cancellations 14 days or less are subject to a 100% penalty of the Total Fare. Given that the resale of canceled space will likely result in a lost opportunity to sell other space, these fees are due regardless of resale. Name changes and departure date changes are considered cancellations and are subject to cancellation fees. Cancellations must be submitted in writing either by letter or by fax and the cancellation will be processed only when this notification is received. Charges for cancellation will be based on the date which cancellation notice is received. Cancellation refunds are payable to passengers in the same manner in which deposit/final payment were made to Uncommon Journeys. Please allow from 2 - 4 weeks for Cancellation refunds to be processed. Refunds cannot be issued until cancellation requests, in writing, have been received. ITINERARY CHANGES: Changing your itinerary after reservations have been made can result in loss of advantages gained by early planning. In addition, the results of last minute changes may be disappointing. All changes to travel itinerary once deposit has been made are subject to a $75.00 per person, per change administrative and handling fee. This includes, but is not limited to, date and itinerary changes on airline and rail tickets, name changes on documents, reissue and refund of rail or air tickets, et. al. Changes are not assessed for stateroom upgrades or for the addition of services, unless air reservations are altered and/or travel documents must be reissued. ROOM SHARES: Uncommon Journeys/Train Holidays does not arrange for, nor accept room share requests. UPGRADE POLICY: Uncommon Journeys and Train Holidays reserves the right to upgrade a guest or guests to more expensive category accommodations at no additional cost. FARE/PORT CHARGES AND TAXES: Fares quoted in brochures are those in effect at the time of printing. If cost factors including airline costs, dictate the need for fare increases, Uncommon Journeys and Train Holidays may do so at any time prior to departure. Port taxes are neither discountable nor commissionable. NOTE ABOUT TRAIN TRAVEL: Some Amtrak or VIA Rail schedules may require an overnight stay in various cities before and/or after tours. Any overnight hotel stays required due to train schedules are the responsibility and expense of the client, not Uncommon Journeys or Train Holidays. Please be advised that all train schedules are subject to availability and unless all sleeping car accommodation charges are paid at the time of deposit, availability cannot be guaranteed. We reserve the right to pass on to tour members any expenditure occasioned by delays or events beyond our control. In the event of a marked increase in tariff rates, costs are subject to revision. TRIP INSURANCE INFORMATION: Cancellation insurance is available at modest cost from various insurance providers and is strongly & urgently recommended. Policies can be obtained that provide protection in the event of trip cancellation, pre-existing medical conditions, trip interruption, personal injury or damage to property. Uncommon Journeys/Train Holidays does not endorse any particular type of policy or company but does encourage all guests to consider the purchase of some type of travel insurance. We strongly suggest that you purchase travel insurance to cover 100% of your tour cost as there are no exceptions to the cancellation penalties.
Cancellation and trip interruption insurance is available through our company by Travelex. To speak to a representative about protecting your travel investment, please call 1.800.323.5893 and ask to speak with insurance services. TICKETS & DOCUMENTS: Tickets and documents will be sent via UPS promptly upon receipt from the railway, airline, or cruise company but only after final payment. This is customarily 14 days prior to departure. Documents include: ship tickets, a complete itinerary, baggage tags, helpful hints, train or air tickets (when applicable) and shore excursion tickets (when applicable). PARTICIPATION ON TOUR: We reserve the right to refuse, to accept, or retain as a member of any tour any person whose deportment or condition impedes the progress, enjoyment, or operations of at any program or tour. In the event we exercise this action, Uncommon Journeys responsibility is limited only to refunding the unused tour services if a person is required to leave the tour. ALTERATION OF ITINERARIES: Because of the nature of the tour programs contained in this brochure, unplanned changes in allotted space may occur. In the unlikely event that this should happen, Uncommon Journeys reserves the right to make changes in routing, visits, and tour timings at any time. Whenever practical, we will advise guests of these changes before departure date. Uncommon Journeys shall not be liable to provide compensation of any type for such operational decisions. HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS: All hotel accommodations are for run of the house standard rooms. Some rooms will be larger or smaller and some rooms may be better than others. The Hotel Management makes all room assignments and Uncommon Journeys/Train Holidays has no control over which room you will receive. If the listed hotel on an itinerary is unavailable due to space availability or other considerations, then we reserve the right to substitute hotel accommodations of a type that we have determined to be of a similar grade. If you have a specific request, we will ensure that this request is passed on to the Hotel Management, however, it may not always be possible to accommodate the request. Please note that it is standard policy in the US and in CANADA that hotel rooms are not available for check-in before 4pm. TRAIN BAGGAGE: Luggage storage in the passenger cars is limited and as such, we recommend guests take only two pieces of carry-on luggage. Passengers will NOT have access to checked baggage while en route. GRATUITIES: All hotel baggage and gratuities on included meals are covered in the package price. Driver/Guide, Host, Transfer driver, train station or pier Red Cap gratuities are not included. RESPONSIBILITY: All train travel included or purchased in conjunction with this program is operated by VIA Rail Canada and/or Amtrak. We cannot and will not accept any responsibility for delays and/or operational disruptions due to VIA RAIL and/or Amtrak operations and decisions. All of our itineraries have been carefully chosen to minimize any potential problem operationally, but occasionally events beyond the control of VIA Rail and/or Amtrak do occur. Uncommon Journeys and Train Holidays does not assume any liability for loss of or damage to or delay of perishable items, medicine, oxygen, liquor, cash, credit or debit cards, jewelry, gold, silver or similar valuables. Uncommon Journeys and Train Holidays will not assume any liability for and loss or damage of luggage or carry-on baggage, and will not assume any responsibility for loss, damage, or delay while baggage is in the custody contracted carriers. In addition, situations may arise which make it necessary for us to cancel, advance or postpone a scheduled departure, change itineraries or make substitutions involving hotels, restaurants, ports of call, other travel components, vessels or other modes of transportation. In that event, we do not assume responsibility or liability for any resulting losses, expenses, or inconvenience. We are not required to make refunds once travel commences regardless of the reason for passengers being unable to complete their travel. Please refer to the paragraph titled 'PARTICIPATION ON TOUR' for the only exception to this. No person, other than a representative of Uncommon Journeys or Train Holidays authorized by a document in writing issued by the Chairman, may vary, add or waive any term or condition set forth in the preceding provisions. Written notice of any claim against Uncommon Journeys or Train Holidays must be received no later than fourteen (14) days after the date that services were provided to a tour participant. All terms and conditions and schedules and rates are subject to change without notice. PAYMENT OF YOUR DEPOSIT ON ANY TOUR OR PROGRAM INDICATES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS.
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