Connie
An early start to the day to catch the famous Rocky Mountaineer …
and it didn't disappoint. This very elegant passenger train is two level mostly and the top deck is where you ride and appreciate the views, complete with commentary with a comic edge.
The views were spectacular, no surprises there; and the train travels at approx 30-40 k/hr for the most part, so one can really appreciate the changing landscape. As we left the Canadian Rockies behind, heading towards Kamloops, the terrain changed entirely to flat, dry and sparse; semi arid. Now the township creeps into view, gradually forming the small township of approx 85,000. This town survives on tourism, not only from people like us but travelling sports teams that visit Kamloops to compete.
Only staying the one night here and again another early start in the morning to finish the last stage of the train ride to Vancouver. Until then ...
Frank
Can't add too much here except that we, well I, saw our fits black bears. Two cubs playing together in a field and one climbing up a mountain after drinking from the river. I only saw them for a few seconds and they were about 300 metres away but I'm told it does count. Must say it has been a little disappointing not to meet up with the furry beasts but there is still Alaska. Here's hoping.
Raining a bit in Kamloops tonight so didn't get to see too much of the town. Did get a very nice coffee again. They are definitely ahead of the Americans in the coffee making field. BTW parking here is $1.25 per hour. Small town, I know but can you remember when it was that cheap in Brisbane!
There was one more thing which is a bit corny but we were challenged to write a poem on the train and here is our effort.
Moose and mice, bears and elks
Salmon streams and crystal lakes
Mountains high above the clouds
Water carvings through the gorges
A special train to see it all
With brand new friends to share it all
But we are all just passing through
This place on earth both old and new
And as we leave our prints behind
For, after all, we're just mankind
Nature smiles upon our travels
Blessing us with all her marvels
And where, I hear you ask, are we
Well, where else but on the Mountaineer.
Yeah, yeah, I know. But, this is a wonderland....
Now here are the photos, enjoy.
:-)
Train looks interesting, is the bottom level for sleeping? Not sure if you said you were sleeping on the train, I see you are finally sneaking a few shots of yourself in now, good to see you are both having fun, and Connie now becoming "ONE" with the horses :-)
ReplyDeleteKeep up the blog, looks like you might finally be showing some talent after all these years, maybe a career in travel in the future...but take me with you. Someone has to kurb your spending.