Kamloops to Banff

Kamloops to Banff

We loved our room in the Signature Sandman but we had too little time to enjoy it. They had a great pool and patio and we would have loved to make use of it but there was just too little time.

We slept better last evening but by 5:15 we were both wide awake. We got dressed and headed to the lobby by 6:10. Our instructions were to just leave our suitcases in our room and the staff from the Rocky Mountaineer would gather it and it would be in our room at the Banff Springs Fairmount when we arrived. But only one case was there. Ken’s suitcase was not there. We called the desk and in less than a half hour our suitcase was in our room. What a relief that was!!

We were supposed to be in the lobby by 6:15. The bus left on time and we were at the train just a few minutes later.

 The obvious difference is the fact that now people know each other and there is a lot of visiting and chatting going on. Yesterday the train was quiet but that is not the case today.

We were in the first seating for meals yesterday so we are in the second seating today. A seating takes almost an hour and a half so to keep us from being too hungry we were server cinnamon scones and coffee. Then when the first group was finished and the tables were reset we were called for our breakfast. This time we were seated with a couple from Florida and Wisconsin, Tom and Ginger.

As soon as we came back up to our seats the gals were around taking our drink orders. Ken ordered a rum and coke and I got a diet coke. They feed and water us constantly.

It is a very hazy day. The smoke is heavy and you can hardly see the surrounding hills.

Again we visited with other passengers and generally had a very pleasant time.

We took pictures and relaxed and enjoyed the day. Our lunch was late because we were second seating. We did not go to eat until around 2:15. I had the pork and Ken had the shrimp.

 When it was time for dessert they brought a very nice serving with Happy 75^th birthday written in icing. Everyone sang Happy Birthday and applauded him. It was fun.

Then we came back to our seat. Again they offered us more to drink.

The air cleared a little when we got into the high mountains. We could hear the gasps throughout the train as people who are having their first look at the Canadian Rockies began to appreciate them.

Just before we arrived in Banff the staff said thank you and they gave us a post card that each of them had signed. They also acknowledged Ken’s birthday . They gave him a gift bag with a set of postcards, a magnet and a birthday card. Everyone sang Happy Birthday.

When the bus arrived in Banff our room keys were waiting us. The air was very cool and we were driven to the Banff Springs.

It is so impressive on the outside. It looks like a medieval castle. The rooms are nice but they are not as nice as the rooms at the Signature Sandman.

Tomorrow we have to be waiting for our bus at 8:00. Our tour is only 4 hours long so we will have time to explore and enjoy these facilities.

Stay tunned!!