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2008-01-09 00:20:00
Check out Vacations Canada TV - coming soon to a browser near you! Vacations Canada TV will feature hosted web tv shows providing unique travel experiences, vacation ideas, and holiday tips for travellers visiting Canada. Exclusive Canada Vacation Packages will also be available to viewers.Subscribe now to be notified when new shows are launched.

Vancouver to Banff - Rocky Mountaineer
2007-12-19 21:50:00
This is definitely one of the most incredible journeys! Travelling through Canada's rugged west from Vancouver to Banff is an experience most will never forget. You start with a train trip from Vancouver to Jasper, then travel on a luxury motorcoach from Jasper along the Icefields Parkway to Banff National Park.Check out this short video one of our staff took while traveling aboard Rocky Mountaineer through the rugged mountains near Golden, BC.

Banff to Vancouver on Rocky Mountaineer
2007-12-05 00:17:00
We started our staff trip from Banff to Vancouver on the Rocky Mountaineer and what a beautiful journey. We were able to enjoy both Gold Leaf and Red Leaf services, both were fantastic and the meals were delicious. After a scenic journey, we arrived in Vancouver and had the night to explore the city.The next day we went on site inspections of several hotels in Vancouver including the Pacific Palisades, Carmana Plaza, and Sandman Downtown; all wonderful hotels, each unique in it's own way. Then we had the rest of the morning and afternoon to explore the city.I went up the Lookout Tower with Shauna and Dean, what a great way to orientate your self with the city. You can see everything and they have little plaques that tell you where you are. Then I ventured off to Stanley Park where I walked for what seemed like an enternity; that place is huge! I saw all sorts of animals and unique trees, really nice walking paths and rest stops along the way. Then off to the Vancouver Aquarium...

A Memorable 30th Anniversary Vacation
2007-11-26 19:19:00
Hi Brewster,Had a most fabulous holiday in Canada this summer in Calgary, Banff, and Vancouver. My wife and I both agree that when we used Brewster for sightseeing from Calgary and Banff, we found that the service, the courtesy, and the outstanding knowledge of your drivers and tour managers were the best that we have ever encountered.We thank you all for making our belated 30th Wedding Anniversary both a very happy and a memorable one. We have certainly recommended your company. Please keep up the good work. Regards,Mr & Mrs P J HellerKent, England
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Float Plane Tour above Vancouver
2007-11-22 17:08:00
I have always wanted to go on a float plane, for as long as I can remember I've dreamed of skimming across the water and finally taking off into the air. On this trip to Vancouver , I decided it was finally time. I called West Coast Air, and they had 2 spots available for their 2:30pm tour. I gave them my information and told them we would be there, a friend of mine agreed to join me. We arrived a little early and watched a few sea planes land and take off. Then it was our time to go! We found out that there would be 6 passengers all together ... a full plane, but we lucked out and got to sit right at the back with an unobstructed view! Before we took off, the pilot gave us very detailed information about the emergency plans, and different parts of the plane, this helped put me at ease. A little bit anyway!The take-off was a little scary for me, to tell you the truth I was a little nervous to begin with, but I actually felt extremely safe in this little plane! We flew over ...
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The 'Three Second Peak'
2007-11-15 22:53:00
This is Corey Mountain better known as the three second peak. This peak is only seen for 3 seconds from the Trans Canada highway between Banff and the Sunshine Village turn off.As you can see, I had much more time to take a very nice photo. This view was from our first day of travel and we were sitting in Red Leaf on Rocky Mountaineer. I really enjoyed the service we received with Rocky Mountaineer, it was very personal and friendly.R. GirardReservations Supervisor, Brewster Vacations Canada
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West Coast Staff Tour: Wildlife at Grouse Mountain
2007-11-06 18:42:00
My trip included many interesting and unforgettable experiences, which I will definitely remember and recommend to family, friends & future Brewster clients. Personally, I learned a great deal about West ern Canada, its roots, historic landmarks and current issues concerning and or attracting travelers to experience. Before taking this trip, I envisioned endless winding train tracks and roads, running parallel through the valleys commanded by the mountain ranges formed 500 million years ago.For a traveler of my age (25), I thought the train & bus trips would lose my attention after the first 4 or 5 hours. But to my surprise, I was intrigued by the passionate stories shared by the Rocky Mountain eer stewards as well as our Brewster Driver/Guide. For me, the combination of descriptive story-like narration while passing each and every historic landmark sparked my curiosity and interested me much more than I ever expected.Each of the sites we inspected during our trip were quite impressiv...
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Canadian Mountain Quest Motorcoach Tour
2007-10-30 22:53:00
Last month I visited Canada for a week, and during this time I took the Brewster Mountain Quest motorcoach tour from Vancouver to Banff. This is a great way to travel from Vancouver to Banff or Calgary (or vice versa) if you are short of time. The scenery during the 2 days was stunning. If you are worried that a motorcoach tour means spending all day sitting on a coach then think again. Stops were made approx every 90 minutes for coffee, lunch, and photo stops. The highlight of the tour was the service and the commentary given by the driver, SHE was so knowledgeable and her commentary throughout the 2 days was excellent. It was a true learning experience, she passed on so much interesting information. The overnight stay at Lac Le Jeune is fantastic. The rooms have no televisions or telphones which encourages you to spend time with your fellow travellers in the bar/lounge area - it is a great way to make new friends. The food and the hospitality were excellent and I look forward ...
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Journey through the Rockies on Rocky Mountaineer
2007-10-23 17:17:00
This past week, I went on a trip to Vancouver aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. It was a two day journey where we stopped in Kamloops for the first night and what an experience!! We travelled through the Rockies in comfort and style and saw the mountains from a completely different perspective. We actually travelled through two mountains in the spiral tunnels. Besides the gorgeous views, there were many animal sightings. The staff on the Rocky Mountaineer were great and you felt like you were traveling first class. In the stop over in Kamloops, we went to a dinner and a show. The food was delicious and then we enjoyed the Two River Junction Show. Our trip to Vancouver was short but enjoyable. We stayed at the Pacific Palisades. Wow!! What a unique and beautiful hotel. The view from my room was breathtaking and from the 22nd floor, I was able to see the ocean, the city-line, the mountains and many more things. The sunsets and sunrises from the balcony where just picture-perfec...
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Canada West Coast Experience
2007-10-18 22:35:00
I haven't been to Vancouver in over a decade and the last time I went to many of the attractions was when I was 9. I had also never been on a train, let alone a fancy tour! It was quite a unique and amazing experience for me and I have lots of great memories to go with my meager collection of photos (only 438!). It was great travelling with a small group of co-workers with diverse interests; it brought a lot to the overall experience. There was never a lack of beautiful scenery and good service on the long journey through the mountains to Kamloops. We visited the Two River Junction Dinner Show and laughed at the over-the-top cast and golden-oldie camp songs. Our next day in the dome car of Goldleaf was an amazing treat, and we had moved out of our local mountains so the scenery was fresher to us and more engaging, especially the homestead of the Naked Farmer, who was sadly absent that morning. After a delicious and beautifully presented lunch (the most photos I have ever tak...
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Totem Trail Canada Vacation
2007-10-11 16:32:00
We flew into Vancouver to find our Brewster folder waiting for us in our hotel. Inside was our daily itinerary detailing all our planned movements, contacts and pick up times and also a booklet of travel vouchers - a simple and effective means of travel we found.With this being our 3rd tour of Canada we had chosen to do the Totem Trail , this involved travel by Bus, Ferry and Train. Some long days, some early mornings but it was definitely an experience that we are glad we have done. Highlights would be the sunrise as we left Port Hardy on Vancouver Island, the 2 days of sitting back watching the world go by on the Via Rail train from Prince Rupert to Jasper, knowing that we still had the fantastic journey from Jasper to Banff to come.The tour showed some different sides to Canada, it was not all Mountains and Tourists. Prince Rupert is in the early days of tourism and did not have the street of shops selling Maple syrup and Canada sweatshirts but the tour round Kaienne Island was wo...
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Many Faces of Rundle Mountain, Banff Canada
2007-09-25 17:25:00
Flag in Front of Mt. RundleWhat always makes me proud to be a Canadian is the diversity of both its people and its land- scapes. But one aspect of Canada 's landscape that always instills a sense of awe, is the Canadian Rocky Mountain s. This photo captures the pride of my country and the my love of the mountains. Rundle SunriseNow, I'm not much of a morning person, but I happened to be up before sunrise and was able to capture this moment. The rugged peak of Mount Rundle silhouetted against the fire of the sunrise.Clouds on RundleGrowing up in the Prairies, the clouds and the sky always seemed untouchable. When I first ventured into the mountains, I was amazed at the fact that the clouds were actually cutting into the mountain. It is a thought and a sight that still amazes me to this day.C. Wingert,Banff Canada
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Commendations for Brewster Sightseeing Tour Driver
2007-09-21 18:04:00
I would like to state flat-out that Brian Standish was by far the 'best' Brewster driver I have ever had. All the drivers I have had in the past were excellent, but Brian was just phenomenal. His vast knowledge of the area mixed in with humourous commentary and his extreme care for each of the clients individually made him a very respectable driver in my eyes. As for the sights, they were very nice as always. After talking with some co-passengers, I came to realize just how much they appreciate the Canadian Rockies, so it was nice to see them from a tourist's perspective.The Banff Gondola staff were great, paths were clean, and the service was very speedy. They got through 2 or 3 tour buses in mere minutes, which was very impressive. I met some long-lost friends up at the Cave & Basin as well, so that was a neat addition to the sightseeing tour. Altogether though, despite me being able to see these sights every day, Brian Standish was able to make this 'routine' experience,...
More About: Driver , Tour , Sightseeing , Dati

A Historical Journey - The Last Spike
2007-09-13 18:46:00
During my time here in the Canadian Rockies, I have spoken to hundreds of people visiting this incredible area and many of them arrived in Banff from the West Coast by train and motorcoach. As locals, I think we all hope to one day have the chance to experience it for ourselves.Recently I got that chance, travelling from Banff to Vancouver and back. During our trip, we stopped at the last spike and it made me realize that without it, none of this would have been possible. For those that don't know the history, the last spike was driven into the last rail on November 7, 1885. Work started in the East and the West. The rails were to link up in the middle. It was on this day that the two rails finally reached each other. With this last spike, a coast-to-coast Canadian railway was born. The return trip from Vancouver really was the highlight of the trip. On the way there we did learn a lot about the area that we didn't know. Our driver really was a fountain of information, but riding ...
More About: Journey , Historical , Spike , The Last , Pike

Exploring the Rockies from Above!
2007-09-07 16:18:00
My boyfriend and I visited the Columbia Icefield in Brewster's huge ice explorer machine this summer, it was definitely one of the coolest dates we had ever been on. Looking up at the Athabasca falls was phenomenal; we just couldn't get enough of the beautiful Rockies . I have always been in awe looking up at the mountains, so I was thrilled when our Brewster driver recommended we see the Icefield on a helicopter tour for even more incredible photo opportunities.The crew at Icefield Helicopters was experienced and extremely friendly. Our pilot told us about the history of the mountains, valleys and lakes as we flew over them at 10,000 feet above sea level. We were also educated on the region's wildlife, protection laws and what it's really like to fly a helicopter. Not to mention, we took some of the most spectacular pictures yet. Even for someone as scared of heights as I am, this trip is too great to pass up. I'd definitely recommend the Columbia Icefield and Helicopter Tour...
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Brewster Vacations Canada Video
2007-09-05 22:29:00
Well I still feel pretty new here - and through my rummaging around I found this excellent video from a couple years ago. It's still pretty relevant and shares some history and great vacation ideas from Brewster Vacations Canada ...although the music is not necessarily my "cup o'tea" :)Enjoy!RobBrewster Vacations
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Minnewanka Boat Tours - Thanks from USA
2007-08-20 16:47:00
Just a note to tell you how much we enjoyed our boat tour yesterday and to forward a picture of our driver, Jake, and guide, Mike. They were both skilled and relaxed in their approach and made this one of the best guided tours we have taken. They also seem to have a genuine passion for the environment and the wonders that Canada has to offer residents and visitors alike. John T. and Melinda B.,Fairfax, Virginia
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Mountain Lakes & Waterfalls tour from Calgary
2007-08-01 16:50:00
I picked up the Brewster coach from outside the Marriott in Calgary when we started our Mountain s, Lakes & Waterfalls tour. At Banff, we changed into the relevant tour coaches, then it was off through the Canadian Rockies and they are truly a sight to behold, absolute awe-inspiring beauty.Johnston Canyon was the first stop, this is a relatively easy 1.5 mile trek along the river and up to the waterfall, on the way down a squirrel had a captive audience as he sat their obliviously eating a cracker as a flash guns popped away at him.Next if I remember correctly was Lake Moraine, turquoise clean waters with the amazing backdrop of mountains and glaciers (this was actually my favorite stop), we then headed out to Lake Louise again beautiful, but to be honest, a tad touristy. The all inclusive lunch was followed by Takkakaw Falls, the power of the water was incredible, the river that runs at the foot of the falls and mountain was just so pretty, boy was the water cold!We then headed ...
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Our Trip to Banff
2007-07-27 00:56:00
To the management of the Brewster tour bus system to Banff,This past year, my wife and I were on the tour bus to Banff, including the gondola ride to Sulphur mountain and other stops. It was a great tour, very beautiful scenes and interesting sights, including the exciting gondola ride.I am writing to commend the driver and guide, Mr. John Dockrill for his excellent guidance of the tour. Mr. Dockrill is a born teacher. He explains everything with enthusiasm and humor. He is very knowledgable and his running commentary throughout the trip made it not only pleasurable but also a true learning experience.We are very grateful to him for this fine tour and thought we would tell you what a qualified and excellent teacher you have. He deserves all praise and we thank him and you for providing the highlight of our trip to Canada.Sincerely,Joseph and Betty Lukinsky
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Royal Canadian Mountie greets Brewster Passengers
2007-07-20 18:22:00
The last couple of days, there was a tumult in the Brewster Transportation Centre.Bill, a retired Mountie dressed up in the Red Serge tunic and entertained the waiting crowd. Tons of pictures were taken and Bill showed off his authentic Wilkinson Sword.You just never know what might happen when taking a Brewster Sightseeing Tour!Rachel Ludwig
More About: Canadian , Royal , Passengers , Adia

Going Over and Above - Thanks from Ecuador!
2007-07-19 16:43:00
Gentleman/ Ladies:Upon my return from an extended vacation, I wanted to contact you, in order to inform you of the following:On 6/23/07 I booked a tour with you through Whistler Inn. My intention was to make the offered tour, but I was under the impression, that the tour bus would take me back to Jasper. I was surprised that at the end of the tour, the driver and guide informed that the tour finishes in Calgary! I then asked him to find out how I could go back to Jasper. He informed that he would take me back in a van. I was so surprised and grateful that I did not know how to express my thanks. And he offered me a dinner. He than drove me back to Jasper, a long drive.Please contact Mr. David Guy to express my wife's and my own thanks for the excellent service that he gave us. I travelled to many parts of the World but I never received such an excellent service from a young man, dedicated to his profession.SincerelyFrank and Marcia SeeligQuito, Ecuador
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With thanks...
2007-07-16 23:12:00
Dear Sir/Madam,During our recent visit to Canada, our travel arrangements fell down due to an error by our UK agents. Your staff in Banff - particularly Jo and Kali - were outstanding in sorting out the problem so cheerfully and efficiently and I would like to express my thanks for their asssistance.With Thanks,A.D.B.Harrower, UK
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Mountain Quest 2-day tour from Vancouver to Banff
2007-07-04 16:21:00
After taking care of some family business in Vancouver , I reluctantly got up very early on Sunday morning to join the Mountain Quest tour to Banff. The early morning is the only thing that I regret. Our driver, Marilyn greeted me with an energetic smile, and provided two full days of excellent commentary.I realize now that the early start is the only possible way to experience so many wonderful sights. Two days is barely enough time to see Whistler, Lillooet, Lac le Jeune, Rodger's Pass, Lake Louise, and all the points in between! One memory card in the camera is certainly not enough!Leaving Vancouver, my bleary eyes were instantly awakened by the vistas of Howe Sound and the Sea-to-Sky Highway. We made our first photo stop at the spectacular Shannon Falls. From the side of the road the roar of the falls gives just a taste of the amazing view that awaits at the end of the short trail. Following the trail the roar becomes louder and louder, until the trees open up to reveal a tower ...
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Brewster Tour Experience
2007-06-26 23:51:00
Hi, I would like to recognize our tour guide Norm, from the day trip to Banff. He was extremely knowledgeable, eloquent, personable and friendly. We will recommend your company to everyone here in Toronto. Paul Carlisi, Toronto Canada
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Canadian Rockies Sightseeing Tour - "A Brilliant Day"
2007-06-20 17:55:00
I've just returned from a fantastic three week holiday in Canada and I just wanted to say thanks to Brewster for helping to make it a great one as we went on one of your sightseeing excursion day trips and thoroughly enjoyed it!We travelled from Calgary to Jasper with Andrew as our chatty driver/guide doing the Colombia Icefield en route and had a brilliant day. We didn't realise that so much was going to be packed into it and Andrew made it really informative and interesting with his animated commentary!!! We've got some lovely photo's and memories of The Rockies , Lakes and Waterfalls which we'll remember for a long long time. I'll certainly recommend your company to anyone I know going to Canada.Thanks again,Serah Reed, UK
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Top of the World - Banff Gondola
2007-06-06 21:03:00
Me and three of my friends packed our cameras and set off to the top of Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola. Although I have been up there before, I love to take the journey to the top and walk around. The view from up there is second to none and it really puts Banff and the Bow Valley into perspective when you can see it from the top. The day was clear and although down in Banff, it was reasonably warm, the top was rather windy and I was thankful that I brought my jacket even though I wasn't sure I'd need it. There was still a lot of snow around up there which makes for beautiful photo's and of course great snowball fights.I must admit I do have a soft spot for Rundle Mountain and there it was in all it's glory. You don't realise how big it is until you can see the whole thing and it goes for miles and miles. I usually like to do the walk out along the board walk to the point however we opted out of it this time as it really was very windy and cold. It is a great little hike...
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A 'Grizzly' Experience
2007-05-16 21:29:00
I have to say that this day will go down in history as one of my best days EVER!!! Being 2 Australians and 1 English girls coming to Canada to work and travel for 12 months, one thing you really want to experience is seeing a bear. I was not fussy what kind and how big, I just wanted to see a bear. I have to say that our bus driver Alan was totally great and did his very best to make sure no wildlife was missed. He had the bus going forwards, backwards, braking at the last second and all. He admitted that this was a pretty amazing day and that he rarely sees so much on one tour.We started our days excursion at about 8:30 and not being a morning person, I found myself struggling to stay awake on the bus. About half way between Banff and the Columbia Icefield the bus came to a screaming halt and just to my left there it was. A Black Bear scrummaging through the woods looking for food. We sat and watched him for a few minutes until he disappeared into the forest. Needless to say I was ...
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First Trip to Vancouver
2007-05-09 16:47:00
Making my first trip to Vancouver , I wanted to see everything I possibly could in the 5 days I had. I also wanted to try out some of the sightseeing tours that we offer there, so I am better equipped to answer the many questions we get.The first thing I did was take the Gray Line Mountain Vistas Tour. The day started off a little a bleak, well, wet might be a better word for it! It was pouring, and I wasn't the least bit surprised when my boyfriend and I were the only 2 people on the tour! We started the tour from the Hyatt downtown Vancouver, and made our way over the Lions Gate Bridge to North Vancouver and made our first stop at the Capilano Fish Hatchery. Here our driver got off the bus with us and walked around with us explaining the Salmon spawning process. We saw lots of diagrams and models of how the process works. Our guide had grown up in the area, so I definitely think that was an asset because she knew a lot about it.Our next stop was the Capilano Suspension Bridge, thi...
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