The Canadian Rockies Blog

Ski Jasper Marmot Basin Video

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 20:26:00 +0000

I hope you like this video of Jasper Marmot Basin. Feel free to comment below.

Ski Jasper this ski season and experience the new longest high speed quad chair in the Canadian Rockies! This new lift is 2.3 kilometers or 1.5 miles in length and whisks skiers and snowboarders up 1,955 vertical feet in only 7.5 minutes. This is one of the most significant ski lift developments in North America for the 2009-2010 season and will result in even less time riding lifts and more time skiing and snowboarding!

Visit JasperHolidays.com for more information on Jasper, Alberta, Canada.

Banff Santa Claus Parade of Lights

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 23:25:00 +0000

We just posted some photos from the Santa Claus Parade of Lights in Banff, Canada, taken Saturday December 5, 2009.

To view them, click HERE

Rocky Mountaineer Wins World Travel Award

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 04:41:00 +0000

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER WINS A PRESTIGIOUS WORLD TRAVEL AWARD FOR THE FOURTH TIME

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (November 9, 2009) – Rocky Mountaineer, Canada’s internationally renowned rail experience, has been honoured with a World Travel Award in the category of “World’s Leading Travel Experience by Train” for the fourth year. The World Travel Awards are highly regarded in the global travel network and have been described by the Wall Street Journal as the ‘Oscars’ of the tourism industry. Every year, hundreds of thousands of travel professionals from across the globe cast their votes to determine the winners. Rocky Mountaineer representatives attended this year’s 16th annual World Travel Awards gala event in London, England on November 8, 2009 along with over a thousand international travel and tourism officials.

“Our organization is delighted to be the recipient of this distinguished award for the fourth time,” says Randy Powell, President & Chief Executive Officer of Rocky Mountaineer. “For 20 years, we have provided the most spectacular travel experiences in the world and it is truly an honour to be recognized amongst so many internationally renowned and iconic trains.”

Fellow nominees for the “World’s Leading Travel Experience by Train” award included: The Blue Train (South Africa), Rovos Rail (South Africa), The Royal Scotsman (Scotland), Venice-Simplon Orient Express (Europe), Eastern & Oriental Express (South East Asia), The Ghan (Australia), Hiram-Bingham Express (Peru), The Golden Chariot Train (India) and The Indian Maharaja (India).

The World Travel Awards were established in 1993 to acknowledge and recognize excellence in the world's travel and tourism industry. Now celebrating its 16th anniversary, the awards are considered the very highest achievement that a travel provider could ever hope to receive. Votes are cast globally by fellow industry professionals in 919 different categories with 3600 nominees. This year’s winners were determined by thousands of travel professionals from 183,000 travel agencies, tour and transport companies and tourism organizations in over 160 countries.

Rocky Mountaineer offers unique Canadian vacation packages and four spectacular rail routes through British Columbia and Alberta. Best known for the internationally-acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer train, a two-day, all daylight rail journey through Canada’s West and the Canadian Rockies, the company also offers a three-hour experience between North Vancouver and Whistler, BC. Since its inception in 1990, Rocky Mountaineer has grown to become the largest privately owned passenger rail service in North America and welcomed its one millionth guest in 2008. In 2009, Rocky Mountaineer was named one of the “World’s Greatest Trips” by National Geographic and ranked as the number one train experience in the world by The Society of American Travel Writers.

Snow in Canmore Oct 27 2009

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:55:00 +0000

Last night we received a nice amount of snow in Canmore (Canadian Rockies) as our picture indicates. For this time of year, this kind of snowfall is normal and with the cooling temperatures as the Canmore average temperatures indicate, most of it will likely stay!

Instant Winter in Canmore: Just Add Snow

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 16:28:00 +0000

Below is a photo taken on October 5 2009 in Canmore with Mount Lawrence Grassi and Ha-Ling Peak in the background and Quarry Lake in the foreground:

These pictures below were taken this morning on October 9 2009 in Canmore, Alberta Canada:

Calgary Flames RED tickets

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 16:56:00 +0000

We now have LIMITED confirmed RED TICKETS for the following Calgary Flames games:

Wednesday December 9, 2009	7:30 pm	Atlanta Thrashers
Wednesday December 23, 2009	7:30 pm	St Louis Blues
Wednesday December 30, 2009	7:30 pm	Los Angeles Kings
Monday January 25, 2010	7:30 pm	St Louis Blues
Thursday February 11, 2010	7:30 pm	Dallas Stars
Saturday February 13, 2010	8:00 pm	Anaheim Ducks
Wednesday March 3, 2010	8:00 pm	Minnesota Wild
Friday March 19, 2010	7:00 pm	San Jose Sharks
Tuesday March 23, 2010	7:00 pm	Anaheim Ducks
Wednesday March 31, 2010	7:30 pm	Phoenix Coyotes
Tuesday April 6, 2010	7:30 pm	San Jose Sharks
Thursday April 8, 2010	7:30 pm	Minnesota Wild

The rate is $250 each including return transportation from Banff and Canmore. Rate includes 5% tax.

To book, visit rocky-peak Holiday's Banff Ice Hockey page.

Banff - Calgary Flames Ice Hockey Tours

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 17:31:00 +0000

Calgary Flames NHL Hockey Tickets with transportation from Banff and Canmore are now available for sale. The rates are as follows:

- Blue Tickets: $170 each including return transportation
- Green Tickets: $140 including return transportation
- Black Tickets: $110 including return transportation

The above rates are subject to 5% GST (tax).

These tickets are already booking up so send us a Banff Hockey Tour request or Canmore Hockey Tour request and we will confirm availability and get back to you right away!

Here is the Calgary Flames NHL Home schedule (played in the Saddledome):

Date	Opponent	Game Time
Thu Oct 1, 2009	VANCOUVER	8.00 PM
Tue Oct 6, 2009	MONTREAL	7:00 PM
Fri Oct 9, 2009	DALLAS	7:00 PM
Fri Oct 16, 2009	VANCOUVER	7:00 PM
Tue Oct 20, 2009	COLUMBUS	7.30 PM
Sat Oct 24, 2009	EDMONTON	8.00 PM
Wed Oct 28, 2009	COLORADO	7.30 PM
Sat Oct 31, 2009	DETROIT	8.00 PM
Sat Nov 7, 2009	NY RANGERS	8.00 PM
Tue Nov 17, 2009	COLORADO	7.30 PM
Thu Nov 19, 2009	CHICAGO	7.30 PM
Wed Nov 25, 2009	PHOENIX	7.30 PM
Wed Dec 9, 2009	ATLANTA	7.30 PM
Fri Dec 11, 2009	MINNESOTA	7:00 PM
Thu Dec 17, 2009	LOS ANGELES	7.30 PM
Sat Dec 19, 2009	NASHVILLE	2.00 PM
Wed Dec 23, 2009	ST LOUIS	7.30 PM
Sun Dec 27, 2009	VANCOUVER	6.00 PM
Wed Dec 30, 2009	LOS ANGELES	7.30 PM
Thu Dec 31, 2009	EDMONTON	7:00 PM
Sat Jan 2, 2010	TORONTO	5.00 PM
Fri Jan 8, 2010	COLUMBUS	7:00 PM
Mon Jan 11, 2010	COLORADO	8.00 PM
Wed Jan 13, 2010	PITTSBURGH	7.30 PM
Fri Jan 15, 2010	NASHVILLE	7:00 PM
Thu Jan 21, 2010	CHICAGO	7.30 PM
Mon Jan 25, 2010	ST LOUIS	7.30 PM
Sat Jan 30, 2010	EDMONTON	8.00 PM
Mon Feb 1, 2010	PHILADELPHIA	7.30 PM
Wed Feb 3, 2010	CAROLINA	7:00 PM
Thu Feb 11, 2010	DALLAS	7.30 PM
Sat Feb 13, 2010	ANAHEIM	8.00 PM
Wed Mar 3, 2010	MINNESOTA	8.00 PM
Fri Mar 5, 2010	NEW JERSEY	7:00 PM
Thu Mar 11, 2010	OTTAWA	7.30 PM
Mon Mar 15, 2010	DETROIT	7.30 PM
Fri Mar 19, 2010	SAN JOSE	7:00 PM
Tue Mar 23, 2010	ANAHEIM	7:00 PM
Wed Mar 31, 2010	PHOENIX	7.30 PM
Tue Apr 6, 2010	SAN JOSE	7.30 PM
Thu Apr 8, 2010	MINNESOTA	7.30 PM

Rocky Mountaineer Holiday Early Booking Deal

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:24:00 +0000

Book your Rocky Mountaineer Holiday of 5 nights or more no later than November 14 2009, and receive a free Explore Vancouver city stop with North Shore tour including Capilano Suspension bridge and a Grouse Mountain Sky Ride.

Contact us direct for this Rocky Mountaineer Holiday offer for full details. This early-booking deal is subject to change and availability.

Fairmont Discounted Package

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 17:18:00 +0000

Take advantage of last minute specials at the Fairmont hotels in the Canadian Rockies. See our suggested last-minute luxury holiday package below:

Suggested itinerary (can be customised):

TUE SEP 22
Arrive 09:50am. Pick-up car rental and GyPSy guide and drive to Banff (~1.5 hours)
Explore Banff townsite using your GYPSY guide. Banff gondola included. After the Banff gondola, soak in the Banff Hot Springs (located beside the Banff Gondola).
Overnight Banff.

WED SEP 23
Banff to Lake Louise. Drive along the old highway stopping at Johnston Canyon. Hike up to the upper falls at Johnston Canyon. From Johnston Canyon, continue onto Lake Louise gondola. Enjoy a buffet lunch and take the gondola or chair lift up to the interpretive centre. In the afternoon, drive to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. If you have time, hike up to the tea house and up further to the big beehive for great views of the lake. Trail head is at the Chateau Lake Louise. Canoes can be rented on the Lake for about $30 per hour.
Overnight Banff.

THU SEP 24
Enjoy a 3-hour horseback ride along the Bow River. The afternoon is free for you to explore the many trails around Banff.
Overnight Banff.

FRI SEP 25
Explore Yoho National Park. Take the trans-Canada highway to Yoho National Park. Stops include spiral tunnels, Takakakaw falls and Emerald Lake. Lunch at Emerald Lake. Take a leisurely drive back stopping at Lake Louise and Moraine Lake if you didn't have time on Wednesday.
Overnight Banff.

SAT SEP 26
Drive to Jasper along spectacular Icefields Parkway. Your GYPSY guide will point out all the sights. Take the snowcoach onto the Athabasca Glacier (included). Continue onto Jasper.
Overnight Jasper.

SUN SEP 27
Take the Jasper Tramway up Whistler Mountain. Soak in the Miette hot springs.
Overnight Jasper.

MON SEP 28
Explore Jasper area on your own using your GYPSY guide. Many trails to explore.
Overnight Jasper.

TUE SEP 29
Jasper to Lake Louise. Take your time as the scenery is just as spectacular coming back.
Overnight Lake Louise.

WED SEP 30
Morning - Canoe on Lake Louise or head to Banff. Take time to relax. Drive to Calgary YYC (approx. 1.5 hours from Banff, 2 hours from Lake Louise) - flight departs at 18:00.

Package for 2 adults includes:

- 3+1 FREE nights Banff Springs Hotel:
FAIRMONT QUEEN - CLASSIC ACCOMMODATION LOCATED THROUGHOUT RESORT WITH MOUNTAIN VIEWS, APPROX 250 SQ FT

- 2+1 FREE nights Jasper Park Lodge:
FAIRMONT QUEEN - LOCATED THROUGHOUT THE PROPERTY, PATIO, CABIN VIEW, APPROX 275 SQ FT

- 1 night Chateau Lake Louise:
FAIRMONT QUEEN HILLSIDE VIEW, COZY ACCOMMODATION - 165 SQ FT

- 9-day car rental with UNLIMITED Kms (Toyota Matrix or similar)

- 9-day GyPSy guide rental

- Banff Gondola

- Lake Louise - buffet lunch and sightseeing gondola

- 3-hour horseback ride (THU SEP 24 - 9am)

- Snowcoach onto Athabasca glacier

- Jasper Tramway

Total Discounted Package Price for 2 adults: CDN$2,788 ($1,394 per person). This rate includes all taxes and is what you would pay.

To book, contact rocky-peak Holidays direct. Rates and availability are subject to change.

Banff Douglas Fir Resort Early-Bird Deal

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 20:49:00 +0000

Save 30% when you book the Banff Douglas Fir Resort now for Summer 2010 through rocky-peak Holidays.

Details:

- Valid on NEW bookings made before May 01, 2010:

- Reservations staying from June 01, 2010 to September 30, 2010 (not valid on specialty suites)

- Excludes: Saturday nights (regular discounted package rate applies on Saturday nights)

- Must be for 2 or more nights (both nights must be between Sunday and Friday)

- Black outs: July 2, 3, 4, 30, 31, August 01, September 3, 4, 5, 24, 25 2010

To book and include as part of a summer vacation package, contact rocky-peak Holidays direct.

Banff Lake Louise Video

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 00:07:00 +0000

Looking for reasons to visit Banff and Lake Louise? Look no further! This promotional video sums up what Banff and Lake Louise are all about! Come enjoy Banff National Park with us - you won't be disappointed!

Rocky Mountain Summer Holiday

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 16:18:00 +0000

Things to remember for a Rocky Mountain Summer Holiday in Canada:

1) Passport: If you are travelling from outside of Canada, even from the U.S., you now require a passport to enter Canada. You don’t need to pre-arrange your visitor visa from some countries. For more information on which countries require you to have a visa, visit Canada Immigration and Citizenship

2) Airport hand luggage: Make sure you don’t pack any sharp objects in your hand luggage if you are travelling to Canada by air. Most airport websites have information on what you should pack. London Heathrow Airport Security Information provides useful details.

3) Sunscreen: You will be at higher elevations in the Rocky Mountains which means you will be closer to the sun and it’s harmful rays. Lake Louise is at 1,536 m (5,039 feet); it is the highest permanent settlement in Canada (Banff is the highest town) so make sure you slip, slop, slap! (Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen and slap on a hat!). Areas like the tops of your ears and the underside of you chin and nose if you plan to go onto Athabasca glacier as the sun's rays are reflected off the ice.

4) Moisturiser: The air in the Canadian Rocky Mountains is very dry and you will notice this straight away. Avoid dry ski irritations by using moisturiser in the mornings and evenings. There is now a range of moisturisers such as product lines just for men. Don’t pack these in your carry on luggage as they may be taken of you (see point 2)

5) Clothing: Make sure you bring out a good breathable waterproof just in case. Alberta is the sunniest province in Canada, but west coast locations such as Vancouver are much wetter.
Bring out a breathable fleece too - we have been known to have sleet and snow in the mountains in August. This is rare but does happen. Mountain weather can change suddenly so be prepared. The weather is cooler on the mountain tops.

Swim gear is recommended too as some hotels have pools and there are hot springs to soak in!

6) Water: A light weight water bottle is a must as you need to get in the habit of continually sipping from a water bottle. The higher altitude means you will become dehydrated sooner and if you don’t drink plenty of water, you may find you develop signs of dehydration such as a head ache.

Avoid excessive alcohol and products with caffeine in them as these can cause a ‘diuretic’ (water loss) effect speeding up dehydration. Bringing out a bottle and refilling it each time is a much more friendly to the environment than purchasing plactic bottles as these inevitable end up in landfills. You can drink the tap water here and most water sources come from glaciers so it tastes great too.

7) Footwear: If you intend to hike, make sure you have some sturdy waterproof boots as the trails can be very rocky. If you don’t intend to hike, there are plenty of walking trails which don’t require boots and suitable footwear such as trainers would suffice. High heels are only suitable in the cities so leave those at home!

8) Backpack: Bring out a backpack with a breathable mesh as it is more comfortable in warmer temperatures when hiking.

9) Knowledge: One of the main attractions in the Canadian Rockies is the wildlife. As the name indicates, these animals are “wild” so give them plenty of room. An animal as small as an innocent ground squirrel can give you a nasty bite. In the National and Provincial parks there are large fines if you feed the wildlife as you can do the animal more harm than good.

Know what to do if you have a bear encounter and be prepared for a much rarer cougar (or mountain lion) encounter. These can happen quite close to most Rocky Mountain townsites. Visit the Parks Canada guide to safety and conservation and contact the local information office before you head out into the local area or back country for bear sightings. If there is a bear in an area, avoid that area.

During the summer months in the Canadian Rockies, the bears love to feast on the buffalo berry bush. The berries are bright red (but can also be bright orange). Know what these plants look like and if you are in an area with a lot of these bushes, make plenty of noise or turn around and leave the area altogether.

10) Preparation: Be prepared for everything. Health care is expensive here if you don’t have travel insurance with medical coverage. If you injury yourself in the back country, you may need to helicopter to fly out so insurance a must.

11) Camera: Have plenty of memory if you bring out your digital camera and remember your charger!

12) Phone: If you are bringing your mobile phone from outside of Canada, be sure to contact your telecommunications provider and ask to have the “international roaming” function turned on. Check the rates before your leave as using your phone in Canada can be costly.

13) Travel adapter: If you intend to bring out any electronic equipment remember to bring out a travel adapter. Purchase this in your country of origin as buying one in Canada may be hard to find to fit your plug.

14) Credit card: Credit cards are accepted everywhere and usually there are no minimums. Make sure you contact your credit card provider before you leave so they don’t treat Canadian transactions as suspicious and block your card.

Remember your pin to your credit card so you can withdrawl money although you will be charged for a cash advance by your credit card provider and for a foreign withdrawl. Ask your bank if you can use your card to withdrawl money overseas - this is usually the most economical way to pull out Canadian funds. Travellers cheques are not so common here - cash is king!

15) Itinerary: If you have had your holiday put together by a Rocky Mountain tour operator, keep your itinerary in your carry-on luggage and keep the company’s toll-free or freephone number in your wallet in case you need to call. This also provides peace of mind and support if you need it.

Hopefully these steps should help you plan your Rocky Mountain Summer Holiday.

Safe travels!

Canmore Bear Warning

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 15:24:00 +0000

EFFECTIVE 1200HRS THURSDAY AUGUST 13, 2009

A bear warning has been placed for the Larch Islands, in the Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park. Bears, including one grizzly bear with an ear tag transmitter, are travelling to and from the islands to feed on ripe berries in the area. The ripe berries will continue to attract bears to the area.

Berry Season is here!

Bears could be encountered anytime, anywhere. All users need to make plenty of noise, and be observant. Be especially vigilant when travelling through areas where ripe berries are present. Dogs, as always, must be kept on leash. Carrying bear spray is strongly recommended, not only here, but any time you venture out in to bear habitat. Using trails with good, open sight lines is preferred.

Conservation Officers will be monitoring daily. The warning will remain in place until further notice.

Whistler Mountaineer FREE*

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 03:27:00 +0000

Guests can experience Canada’s most exciting three-hour rail journey – the Whistler Mountaineer – a breathtaking train trip between North Vancouver and Whistler in Glacier Dome, for *FREE for a limited time.

Until September 25, 2009, book a Rocky Mountaineer two-day rail journey or holiday package, and receive a round-trip journey onboard the Whistler Mountaineer train for FREE, plus a $50 Rocky Mountaineer souvenir credit.

This promotion ends on September 25 2009 so hurry!

Terms and conditions:

1. Offer valid between August 10 and September 25, 2009

2. Applicable to departures through the end of the 2009 Rocky Mountaineer season (October 11); note: the 2009 Whistler Mountaineer season ends October 6.

3. Offers are capacity controlled and may be modified, withdrawn or amended without prior notice.

4. Applicable to new bookings only

5. Not available in conjunction with any other offer.

6. Qualifying rail journey can be purchased in either class of service.

7. Free offers must be used as part of the package or 2-day rail journey and cannot be deferred to another date or refunded.

8. Free offers must be requested at the time of booking. Offers will not be automatically allocated or retrospectively added.

9. Not available for group tour block bookings.

10. RedLeaf bookings will receive Coast Classic experience, GoldLeaf or Escorted Tour bookings will receive Glacier Dome experience.

11. Onboard souvenir credit has no cash value and must be used on the Rocky Mountaineer 2 day experience.

More information can be found on our Rocky Mountaineer Holidays page.

Kokanee Crankworx 2009

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 23:16:00 +0000

WHISTLER, BC August 6, 2009 – Whistler is readying itself to welcome the world with Kokanee Crankworx, the world’s largest freeride mountain bike festival, kicking off in just two days. Now in its sixth year, the event has grown from a grassroots celebration of gravity-fueled mountain biking, to a festival spanning nine days; drawing over 300 of the world’s best mountain bike athletes, over 150 accredited media and tens of thousands of spectators.

“Kokanee Crankworx is another great opportunity for Whistler to test its ability to host a major event,” says Jeremy Roche, General Manager of Kokanee Crankworx. “Our pinnacle event, the Monster Energy Slopestyle, drew over 20,000 spectators to the base of Whistler Mountain last year and on Saturday, August 15 we are anticipating to host at least that many again.”

Kokanee Crankworx’s free events, coupled with incredible deals on accommodation and dining in Whistler, bode well for a successful festival, and are expected to drive attendance as visitors seek out high-value experiences this summer..

“This summer we are seeing strong numbers from our destination and regional visitors. This speaks to the momentum and strength of the mountain bike industry, and to the kinds of experiences Whistler Blackcomb offers in the summer, as well as some of the great deals that can be found,” says Roche. “Whistler is now on the ‘must-do’ list with experiences like the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola; and events like Kokanee Crankworx where sport merges with art and music to create an incredible festival experience.”

Kokanee Crankworx will feature free, world-class mountain bike competitions; the Deraylor Music Festival featuring artists like K-OS; and the inaugural Saint Deep Summer Photo Challenge slideshow event at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler. The Crankworx calendar features mountain bike events nearly every day, a Bike Expo and Demo Zone snaking through the village, and athletic spectacles around every bend including the mind-blowing technique of trials gurus Ryan Leech and the Baia Brothers. For those who can’t be in Whistler, organizers are anticipating a worldwide, online audience of over 150,000 through live feeds of the following events in the Pacific Time Zone: Air Downhill, August 13, 5:30-7:30pm; the VW Trick Showdown, August 14, 6-9pm; and the iconic Monster Energy Slopestyle, August 15, 5:30-7:30pm on Go211.com and www.crankworx.com.

While Whistler Blackcomb has been affected by two wildfires on Blackcomb Mountain in the last week, they have been quickly managed thanks to the Ministry of Forests and Range, the Whistler Fire Department and Whistler Blackcomb staff. At this point there is no concern that wildfires could impact Kokanee Crankworx as these occurrences have been in isolated areas high on Blackcomb Mountain. Extreme caution is being exercised with on-mountain operations, and sightseeing and hiking continues on Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains.

Blackcomb Fire Update

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 18:20:00 +0000

WHISTLER, BC

Whistler and Blackcomb Mountain operations continued yesterday, offering sightseeing, hiking and mountain biking via seven chairlifts, including the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. Fire crews remained on site on Blackcomb yesterday and remain vigilant given the high temperatures and potential for changing weather patterns.

Further details regarding the status of two Blackcomb fires will be distributed by the Resort Municipality of Whistler, in conjunction with the Ministry of Forests & Range following morning briefings.

Blackcomb Mountain operations include access for uploading and downloading via the Wizard Express and Solar Coaster chairs from the Blackcomb base, sightseeing around the Blackcomb PEAK 2 PEAK terminal and Rendezvous, as well as the Alpine Walk hiking trail located on the southwest side of the mountain. Rendezvous and Christine’s restaurants will also be operational. Access to the Overlord trail and all other Blackcomb trails are restricted. As well, the Crystal Ridge and Ruby Bowl fires are still active and entry into these areas is strictly prohibited.

Whistler Mountain is open, including the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, for sightseeing, hiking and mountain biking, with some restrictions to the high alpine hiking trails such as the High Note and Singing Pass trails. Access is via the Whistler Village Gondola or the Fitzsimmons Express.

“The safety of our guests and employees is our highest priority and so we are working within the Ministry of Forests & Range’s parameters to open up operations only once they are deemed safe,” says Doug Forseth, senior vice president of operations at Whistler Blackcomb. “We do expect Blackcomb to remain open, pending any major setbacks. Our operational plan is being reviewed each morning once we’ve had chance to understand how things have progressed overnight. In addition, we are monitoring any lightening activity and will pro-actively adjust operations as needed.”

Guests are reminded that due to the extreme fire hazard, the province of BC has issued a Voluntary Backcountry Restriction and requests all residents and visitors to BC to adhere to the advisory and exercise extreme caution on both mountains. Please obey all posted signs and trail closures and report any sign of smoke or fire by calling 604-938-FIRE.

For full details on Whistler Blackcomb operations, please visit us online at www.whistlerblackcomb.com/whatsopen (linked from the homepage) or call 1-800-766-0449.

Vancouver to Calgary Itinerary 10 day 9 nights

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 18:00:00 +0000

Here are a couple of Rocky Mountain Holiday itineraries departing on Friday August 14 2009 for 10 days / 9 nights from Vancouver finishing in Calgary:

1) Holiday Package with Rocky Mountaineer®:

FRI AUG 14 - Arrive Vancouver. Overnight Vancouver.

SAT AUG 15 - Vancouver City Tour - AM. Overnight Vancouver.

SUN AUG 16 - Victoria Day Trip from Vancouver. Full day. Overnight Vancouver.

MON AUG 17 - Explore Vancouver on your own. Overnight Vancouver.

TUE AUG 18 - Vancouver to Kamloops onboard the Rocky Mountaineer. Overnight Kamloops.

WED AUG 19 - Rocky Mountaineer to Jasper. Overnight Jasper.

THU AUG 20 - Maligne Valley Sightseeing and Boat Cruise. 5-6 hours. Overnight Jasper.

FRI AUG 21 - Jasper to Banff along spectacular Icefields Parkway. Snowcoach onto Athabasca Glacier included. Overnight Banff.

SAT AUG 22 - Banff Sightseeing Trip - AM / Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Sightseeing Trip - PM. Overnight Banff.

SUN AUG 23 - Depart to Calgary Airport YYC on scheduled airport shuttle.

Holiday Package Includes:

- 4 nights Vancouver - Mid-Range (moderate) Hotel

- Vancouver City Tour (4-5 hours)

- Victoria Day Trip (includes return ferry, Butchart Gardens admission, Royal London Wax Museum admission & return transportation from you Vancouver hotel)

- Rocky Mountaineer® Train, RedLeaf Service to Kamloops

- 1 night Kamloops (moderate) Hotel

- Rocky Mountaineer® Train, RedLeaf Service to Jasper

- 2 nights Jasper - Mid-Range (moderate) Hotel

- Maligne Valley Sightseeing and Boat Cruise (5-6 hours)

- Jasper to Banff with Snowcoach onto Glacier included

- 2 nights Banff - Mid-range (moderate) Hotel

- Banff Sightseeing Group Tour

- Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Sightseeing Group Tour

- Scheduled Airport Transfer to Calgary Airport YYC. Available departures from Banff (takes approx. 2 hours): 8:30, 12:30, 13:30, 16:00, 18:00, 19:30

Total Discounted Package Price for 2 Adults = CDN$4,786 ($2,393 per person). This rate includes ALL taxes, promotions and discounts. Upgrade to GoldLeaf service on the Rocky Mountaineer for CDN$930 per person.

We have VERY LIMITED SEATS AVAILABLE ON THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER® so please CONTACT US immediately if you would like to book this holiday package.

To keep costs down, you can take the overnight train from Vancouver instead of the Rocky Mountaineer®:

2) Holiday Package without Rocky Mountaineer®:

FRI AUG 14 - Arrive Vancouver. Overnight Vancouver.

SAT AUG 15 - Vancouver City Tour - AM. Overnight Vancouver.

SUN AUG 16 - Victoria Day Trip from Vancouver. Full day. Overnight Vancouver.

MON AUG 17 - Explore Vancouver on your own. Overnight Vancouver.

TUE AUG 18 - Vancouver to Jasper onboard the overnight train. Departs Vancouver: 20:30

WED AUG 19 - Arrives Jasper 16:00. Overnight Jasper.

THU AUG 20 - Maligne Valley Sightseeing and Boat Cruise. 5-6 hours. Overnight Jasper.

FRI AUG 21 - Jasper to Banff along spectacular Icefields Parkway. Snowcoach onto Athabasca Glacier included. Overnight Banff.

SAT AUG 22 - Banff Sightseeing Trip - AM / Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Sightseeing Trip - PM. Overnight Banff.

SUN AUG 23 - Depart to Calgary Airport YYC on scheduled airport shuttle.

Holiday Package Includes:

- 4 nights Vancouver - Mid-Range (moderate) Hotel

- Vancouver City Tour (4-5 hours)

- Victoria Day Trip (includes return ferry, Butchart Gardens admission, Royal London Wax Museum admission & return transportation from you Vancouver hotel)

- Overnight Train to Jasper - Economy (Seat)

- 2 nights Jasper - Mid-Range (moderate) Hotel

- Maligne Valley Sightseeing and Boat Cruise (5-6 hours)

- Jasper to Banff with Snowcoach onto Glacier included

- 2 nights Banff - Mid-range (moderate) Hotel

- Banff Sightseeing Group Tour

- Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Sightseeing Group Tour

- Scheduled Airport Transfer to Calgary Airport YYC. Available departures from Banff (takes approx. 2 hours): 8:30, 12:30, 13:30, 16:00, 18:00, 19:30

Total Discounted Package Price for 2 Adults = CDN$3,186 ($1,593 per person). This rate includes ALL taxes, promotions and discounts.

Please note that rates are subject to change. We accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express for payment.

To book or for more information, contact rocky-peak Holidays:

Freephone U.K.: 0800-567-7542

North America Toll-Free: 1-888-747-6259

7-Day Round-Trip Itinerary from Vancouver

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 13:44:00 +0000

A sample 7-day itinerary from Vancouver with rocky-peak Holidays which takes advantage of current travel specials. This itinerary can be completely customised and you can easily upgrade to a luxury package.

SAT AUG 15

Arrive Vancouver. Overnight Vancouver.

SUN AUG 16

Overnight Train to Jasper departs 20:30.

MON AUG 17

Train arrives Jasper 16:00. Overnight Jasper.

TUE AUG 18

Jasper to Banff along the spectacular Icefields Parkway. Snowcoach onto Athabasca glacier included. Overnight Banff.

WED AUG 19

Banff Sightseeing Trip - AM / Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Sightseeing Trip - PM. Overnight Banff.

THU AUG 20

Depart Banff onboard the Rocky Mountaineer Train, RedLeaf Service, to Kamloops. Overnight Kamloops.

FRI AUG 21

Rocky Mountaineer RedLeaf Service to Vancouver. Overnight Vancouver.

SAT AUG 22

Victoria Day Trip from Vancouver. Full day. Overnight Vancouver.

Package Includes:

- 1 night Vancouver - Mid-Range (moderate) Hotel

- Overnight Train to Jasper - Economy (Seat)

- 1 night Jasper - Mid-Range (moderate) Hotel

- Jasper to Banff with Snowcoach onto Glacier included

- 2 nights Banff - Mid-range (moderate) Hotel

- Banff Sightseeing Group Tour

- Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Sightseeing Group Tour

- Rocky Mountaineer Train, RedLeaf Service to Kamloops

- 1 night Kamloops (moderate) Hotel

- Rocky Mountaineer Train, RedLeaf Service to Vancouver

- 2 nights Vancouver - Mid-Range (moderate) Hotel

- Victoria Day Trip (includes return ferry, Butchart Gardens admission, Royal London Wax Museum admission & return transportation from you Vancouver hotel)

Total Discounted Package Price for 2 Adults = CDN$3,990 ($1,995 per person). This rate includes ALL taxes, promotions and discounts. Price will be confirmed at time of booking.

Contact rocky-peak Holidays for more information or to book:

Freephone U.K.: 0800-567-7542

North America Toll-Free: 1-888-747-6259

Canmore area closed

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 21:03:00 +0000

Larch Island on the Bow River near the Town of Canmore is CLOSED. This closure includes all trails on the island and is due to an elk carcass that will continue to attract large carnivores to the area.

The area will remain closed until further notice.

It is bear season so please be aware of your surroundings. Certified hiking guides are available if you are not comfortable. Wildsmart.ca has some very useful information.

Rocky Mountaineer 2010 Holiday Package Downloads

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 23:25:00 +0000

Rates are now available for all the Rocky Mountaineer Holiday packages for 2010. You can download the itinerary and pricing in PDF format at our Rocky Mountaineer Holiday Package Download page.

The 2010 Rocky Mountaineer rail packages now include the following:

Circle Tour Holiday Packages (Start and finish in Vancouver):
• Classic Rail Circle | 7 nights / 8 days
• Canadian Rockies Getaway | 8 nights / 9 days
• Grand Rail Circle | 10 nights / 11 days
• Golden Circle via Whistler | 10 nights / 11 days
• Canadian Rockies Circle | 12 nights / 13 days

One-Way Tour Holiday Packages (Can be taken in either direction):
• Classic Rail Holiday, Vancouver to Banff | 3 nights / 4 days
• Classic Rail Holiday, Vancouver to Jasper | 3 nights / 4 days
• Classic Rail Holiday, Vancouver to Calgary | 3 nights / 4 days
• Classic Rail Holiday, Whistler to Jasper | 3 nights / 4 days
• Canadian Rockies and Whistler | 4 nights / 5 days
• Canadian Rockies Excursion | 4 nights / 5 days
• Canadian Rockies Highlights | 5 nights / 6 days
• Canadian Rockies and Vancouver | 6 nights / 7 days
• Canadian Rockies Adventures | 7 nights / 8 days
• Western Explorer | 7 nights / 8 days
• Northern Explorer | 8 nights / 9 days
• Canadian Rockies at Leisure | 9 nights / 10 days
• Northern Rockies at Leisure | 10 nights / 11 days

Trans-Canada Rail Tour Holiday Packages (Can be taken in either direction):
• Trans-Canada Rail Adventure | 11 nights / 12 days or 12 nights / 13 days
• Canada's Coast to Coast by Rail | 15 nights / 16 days or 16 nights / 17 days

Rail and Self-Drive Holiday Packages (Can be taken in either direction):
• Banff the Beautiful | 5 nights / 6 days
• First Passage to the West Discovery Drive | 7 nights / 8 days
• Journey through the Clouds Discovery Drive | 7 nights / 8 days
• Rainforest to Gold Rush Discovery Drive | 8 nights /9 days

We can customise any of the holiday packages at RockyMountainHolidays.com by adding a cruise to Alaska for example.

Calgary Stampede 2009 - FREE ENTRY

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 16:20:00 +0000

Free admission to Stampede Park and a free breakfast are available on "value days" when you get to Stampede Park before 9 a.m. Check out Petro-Canada Family Day, Western Heritage Day, and BMO Kids’ Day to take advantage of this great offer. Plus, there are even more great activities on Value Days:

PETRO-CANADA FAMILY DAY

Sunday, July 5
9 a.m. to midnight
Free admission: 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.
Midway and facilities open at 9 a.m.

Petro-Canada Family Day Breakfast

Free admission to the Park from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.
Free Petro-Canada Family Day pancake breakfast for the first 20,000 guests. Breakfast tickets distributed at Park entrances. Breakfast served from 7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. in the Grandstand Courtyard.
Free show on the Grandstand Stage at 7:30 a.m. featuring Beverley Mahood, The Higgins, Vos Family Singers...and more!
Doodlebops on the Coca-Cola Stage at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.
Participate in the Petro-Canada Family Day Passport program from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Passport booklets distributed at Guest Services booths, the Petro-Canada Family Day breakfast and passport locations around the Park. Drop your completed passport off at the Petro-Canada booth in BMO Centre and we'll give you a free Olympic glass (limit one per family), with the option to buy more. Only completed passports will be eligible to win the grand prize of $2,500 worth of Petro-Canada gasoline and WestJet air travel for four & more!
Petro-Canada Family Day cowboy hats & lollipops distributed at the breakfast and available at Guest Services booths, while quantities last.

WESTERN HERITAGE DAY

Tuesday, July 7
8 a.m. to midnight

From 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. seniors (65 years and over) will enjoy:

Free coffee, juice and donuts in the Stampede Corral (while supplies last)
Pins (handed out at the breakfast, courtesy of Loram 99)
Displays, exhibitors and entertainment held in the Corral from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Free stage show in the Corral from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.
George Fox at 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. in Nashville North
Superdog Show in the Corral at 10 a.m.
Guests may enter to win a trip for two to Victoria, B.C., courtesy of Retirement Residences Group and WestJet airlines

Seniors will also enjoy:

Free Park admission all day
NEW in 2009! Free Copper Section Rodeo and Evening Show tickets (while supplies last). Tickets must be picked up at the Grandstand Ticket Office. Grandstand Ticket Office opens at 10 a.m.
Free Standing Room tickets to the Rodeo and Evening Show (while supplies last). Tickets must be picked up at the Grandstand Ticket Office. Grandstand Ticket Office opens at 10 a.m.
Free WestJet Skyrides all day
One free North American Midway Entertainment Bingo play at the top of each hour
Twenty per cent discount on merchandise at the Stampede Store
Check out Showbands Live! in the Pengrowth Saddledome from Noon to 8 p.m.

BMO KIDS’ DAY

Wednesday, July 8
9 a.m. to midnight
Free admission: 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. for children 12 and under and accompanying adults
Free breakfast from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. in the Grandstand Courtyard while quantities last
Midway opens at 9 a.m. and BMO Centre opens at 10 a.m.

Free show on the Grandstand Stage from 8:15 a.m. to 10 a.m.
BMO thunder sticks distributed at the breakfast (while quantities last)
BMO Kids’ Day cowboy hats distributed at the breakfast and available at all Guest Services booths (while quantities last)
BMO Kids' Day midway coupons available 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 30 coupons for $20 (price includes GST). Valid July 8 only.

Saddledome Lane, BMO Kids' Zone

Kids' Tractor Pull	11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 6:30 p.m.
Kids' Team Penning	2:30 p.m., 3:45 p.m., 4:30 p.m.
RCMP Family Fitness	11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Director's Cut: Comic Relief?	9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Coca-Cola Stage

Disney's High School Musical: Summer Celebration

11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Saddledome Plaza Stage

Splash'N Boots

11:30 a.m.

Stampede Corral

Superdogs

10 a.m., 1 p.m., 4 p.m., 7:30 p.m.

Buckaroos Stage: Big Four building, Lower level

DooDoo the Clown	Noon and 3 p.m.
Bobs & Lolo	11 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m., 7 p.m.
Loose Moose Theatre for Kids	10 a.m., 1 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m.

Indian Village

Youth Parade Pre Pow Wow	Noon
Pow Wow Competition (Dancers 17 years and under)	3 p.m.

Ski Holidays Canada twitter

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 23:31:00 +0000

Our U.K. ski site, SkiHolidaysCanada.co.uk is now twittering (or tweeting!). Stay up-to-date with us at http://twitter.com/holidayscanada !

Long-Term Whistler Rental

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 17:32:00 +0000

We have a long-term lease available for a one-bedroom unit in Whistler starting November 1 2009. It is located in the Marquise building with ski-in/ski-out close by.

If you are interested, please contact rocky-peak Ski Holidays.

WestJet is Canada's preferred airline

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 16:44:00 +0000

Study conducted by Leger Marketing indicates WestJet is tops

CALGARY - WestJet [recently] announced the results of a study conducted by Leger Marketing indicating that WestJet is Canada's preferred airline.

The study, conducted quarterly on behalf of WestJet by Leger Marketing, one of Canada's most well-known and reputable research firms, shows that 49 per cent of Canadians chose WestJet as their preferred airline in Canada. Air Canada was preferred by 35 per cent.

"We are thrilled by this news," said WestJet President and Chief Executive Officer Sean Durfy. "Clearly, this demonstrates that our culture and our people are making a difference in the lives of Canadians. I congratulate the more than 7,500 WestJetters who have earned these results and who work very hard to provide a caring guest experience.

"Becoming Canada's preferred airline is a significant milestone as we continue to deliver on our objectives and move towards our vision of becoming a top five international airline by 2016," continued Sean Durfy. "Our brand and financial strengths are big contributors to these results as the travelling public recognizes that our business model is sustainable and that our guests can book with confidence."

Dave Scholz, Leger Marketing Vice-President, Toronto Office said, "WestJet has consistently performed well when we have asked Canadians which airline they prefer. WestJet provides its customers with the travel experience that people are looking for these days and the survey shows that this is appreciated."

In addition, WestJet ranked 21st in Leger/Marketing Magazine's annual Corporate Reputation Survey and was the only airline to be ranked in the top 100.

Bob Cummings, WestJet's Executive Vice-President, Guest Experience and Marketing added, "We are truly humbled to be number 21 in this study ahead of
such great brands as Fed Ex, IBM, Apple, Microsoft, Pepsi, Coke, Starbucks and McDonald's. These results demonstrate the current and future potential of the WestJet brand. We are one of the leading service industry brands in Canada - period. In particular, WestJet is poised to leverage its position to further
grow in the business and vacations markets. Our brand will continue to flourish as we introduce new products, deliver on our Care-antee and increase the strength of our company culture."

About WestJet
WestJet is Canada's preferred airline, providing high-value low-cost service throughout its 55-city North American and Caribbean network. Named one of Canada's most admired corporate cultures in 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008, WestJet pioneered low-cost flying in Canada. WestJet offers increased legroom, leather seats and live seatback television provided by Bell TV on its modern fleet of 79 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. With future confirmed deliveries for an additional 42 aircraft, bringing its fleet to 121 by 2013, WestJet strives to be the number one choice for travellers.

Source: CNW Group, & Travel Alberta's Web Editors

Make WestJet part of your Rocky Mountain Holiday package!

Canmore to Lake Louise Trail Approved

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Tue, 26 May 2009 22:07:00 +0000

Exciting news for locals and visitors!!

Outdoor enthusiasts will soon have a stunning nature trail to explore in Alberta that runs from Canmore to Lake Louise.

The federal government announced Tuesday [May 19] that $6.75 million will be spent on building a new paved path through Banff National Park for hikers, cyclists and in-line skaters.

The Legacy Trail will run 26 kilometres from Canmore to the Bow Valley Parkway just west of the Banff town site, along the Trans-Canada Highway between the road and wildlife fence. The path will then join up with Highway 1A to Lake Louise.

Federal Environment Minister Jim Prentice, who was at the Banff announcement, called the trail an environmentally friendly way to link the mountain towns.

The trail still needs to pass an environmental assessment, but work could begin this summer and finish in time for Banff's125th anniversary in the fall of 2010.

People who live in area say they're pleased the project that's been in works for years is going ahead. Local groups hope it will bring more tourists to the region.

Source: cbc.ca