Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
the Canrailpass from time to time, so ask about those once your
travel plans have taken shape.
Arrival Times
As with Amtrak, long-distance trains are more likely to run
late than the short-haul trains. Whatever train you're taking, if
you're planning to board at a stop other than its point of origin,
your best bet for correct information is to call the VIA phone
number of the station where you're boarding. You can certainly
call the 800 number, but you may not receive up-to-the-minute
information.
Parlez-vous Français?
No? Well, that's a pity, but don't worry about it. VIA employees
(indeed, most of the people you'll meet, even in the French-speaking
parts of Canada) are quite fluent in English.
Baggage
As in Europe, you'll find free baggage carts in many stations.
The Montreal and Toronto stations are two exceptions, but there
is redcap service available there. You may check heavy baggage
if you wish, but be sure to find out in advance if that service is
available at both ends of your trip.
Classes of Service
They're pretty much the same as Amtrak, but VIA just gives dif-
ferent names to their various levels of service.
Sleeper class
refers
to the private accommodations in sleeping cars on overnight
trains, but there are some minor distinctions.
On the Canadian
(Toronto-Vancouver)
sleeper class
is
referred to as
Silver & Blue class
to add some additional luster
to what is already a first-rate experience. You can choose from a
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