The Canadian anthem is played when the train officially crosses the Canadian-USA border, and a quick glance to the right, passengers can spot the Peace Arch. Arriving in the evening in Vancouver, most passengers are comparing notes about which Rocky Mountaineer option is next on everyone’s schedule. I’m headed via Kamloops to Banff, on the First Passage to the West.

Guests are transported by coach to the Rocky Mountaineer’s station, which offers guests coffee, tea, juice and live piano music before the team and a bagpiper officially escorts passengers on board.

During the journey, passengers are treated to an up close and personal view of the changing landscape as the train heads northeast from downtown Vancouver to the farmlands of the Fraser Valley, and the dramatic views of the Fraser and Thompson Canyons, including the notorious Hell’s Gate.

The views are tempting to everyone with a camera, and passengers take advantage of the domed car available in Gold Leaf class to spot the changing landscape and local wildlife, while enjoying five star cuisine.