Canada & Alaska Rail Cruise Adventure - September 2024 - Silvana Danielis - Hostess Round Up

In September we embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through the majestic Canadian Rockies, the stunning coastlines of Alaska, and the vibrant city of Vancouver. How lucky were we to explore some of the most beautiful places on Earth.?

Our journey began in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, in the picture-perfect town of Banff. Sulphur Mountain, aboard a gondola ride we had a bird’s eye view of Bow Valley and Bow Falls. The beauty of Banff was only a hint of what was to come. We set off on a scenic drive toward the famous Lake Louise, and some of us canoed on its turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Our afternoon tea at the luxurious Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise was a special moment—overlooking one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

We went on the Athabasca Glacier Adventure, stepping onto the ancient ice of a glacier that has been carving its way through the mountains for centuries.

One of the many highlights of our trip was the Rocky Mountaineer rail journey, which took us from Lake Louise to Vancouver. It gave us the chance to sit back and soak in the beauty of the Rockies while we were fed and watered. As we passed through towering peaks, lush forests, and rushing rivers, we were reminded of how vast and magnificent nature can be.

Arriving in Vancouver, we boarded the Holland America "MS Koningsdam" for a 7-night cruise (more feeding and watering) through Alaska’s stunning Inside Passage. We were treated to views of towering glaciers, sparkling waters, and rugged coastlines. Our cruise took us to some of Alaska’s most iconic port towns, including Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Each town had its own unique charm and the girls went on amazing tours including trips on land, sea and air.

One of the beautiful stops on our journey was the charming city of Victoria and the Butchart Gardens, an incredible display of a lifetime of work developing a garden. It was the perfect place to enjoy each other’s company and soak up the sunshine.

Our adventure in Vancouver continued as we set off on a Gastronomic Gastown tour. The city’s foodie scene is famous for good reason, and we savoured everything from local delicacies to international flavours in this trendy district.

We spent a full day exploring the city’s North Shore, including the thrilling Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. We had to harness our courage and determination as we walked across the swaying bridge, with the lush forest metres beneath us. The day ended with a visit to Grouse Mountain, where finally saw some bears; in captivity, but so awesome to see so closely. It was a fitting end to our time in Vancouver.

Each moment—whether it was sipping tea by Lake Louise or sharing a meal in Gastown—was a reminder of the strength and joy that comes from traveling with a group of women who understand and uplift one another.

Thanks for the memory’s girls

Silvana