(Via Rail issued the following news release on March 30.)
VANCOUVER — Who said turning 50 was something to fret about? VIA Rail Canada has an irresistible offer that makes blowing out all those candles on the birthday cake worth getting excited about. It’s an offer open to anyone celebrating their 50th birthday in the month of April. But you’ll have to act quickly, this offer is valid only until April 30, 2005.
VIA Rail is wishing a “Happy Birthday to baby boomers” turning 50 in April 2005 with a very special offer. Beginning April 1, 2005 until April 30, 2005 travel first class – Silver & Blue – from Vancouver to Toronto, or any two cities in between, for only $50! That’s $100 for the round trip. Silver & Blue class is VIA’s award-winning premier service that includes on-board meals, sleeping accommodations and exclusive access to the observation dome car with 360 degrees panoramic viewing.
Fifty years ago, on April 24, 1955, two new classic trains were brought into service by Canada’s two principal passenger rail services, the “Super Continental” (Canadian National) and “The Canadian” (Canadian Pacific). Each made the western transcontinental voyage one to remember. And while aspects of their operation have changed over the past half-century, one thing has not, Canada’s transcontinental voyage is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. In fact, travelling on VIA’s “Canadian” has been recognized by National Geographic as one of the top five journeys in the world. Today, the “Canadian’s” stainless steel equipment still gleams brightly as it crosses the country bringing travellers from around of the world face to face with the very best of Canada’s landscape. What better way to celebrate a landmark birthday than with an unforgettable journey by train.
The offer is based on best available accommodation (excluding Triple bedrooms). Proof of birthdate is required. No advance purchase is necessary but space is limited, so book early! Tickets are fully refundable. Reservations can be made by calling 1-888-VIA Rail (842-7245) beginning April 1, 2005. Other conditions may apply. This offer is not available through VIA’s web, Travel Agents or Tour Operators and cannot be combined with any other offers. Companions pay regular best available fare.
Special station and on-train events are being planned for Vancouver and Winnipeg for April 24, 2005, to officially mark this special anniversary.
As Canada’s national passenger rail service, VIA Rail Canada’s mandate is to provide efficient and cost effective passenger transportation services, both in Canada’s busiest corridor and in remote and rural regions of the country. Serving more than 450 communities across Canada, demand for rail services continues to grow as more Canadians turn to train travel as a safe and convenient travel choice.