Anyone been on The Canadian recently?
 

We will be taking The Canadian from Toronto to Vancouver soon. Can anyone tell me what the procedure at Union Station is like for Sleeping car passengers? Any details would help.

We got our tickets online. Do I have to also pickup "regular" tickets at Union?
What do we do with our checked luggage?
How much luggage storage is their in our "double" cabin?
When can we go to the Lounge?
How close to departure do we board the train?
Does anyone know if I can arrange low sodium and "lower" fat meals?

The link to special meals-http://www.viarail.ca/en/useful-info/special-needs/special-meals-and-medication

It's been about 7 years since I last boarded the Canadian in Toronto. ViaRail tends to board the sleeper car passengers about 40 to 45 minutes before departure time. The coach passengers are boarded after the sleeper passengers. Refer to the website for how much luggage will fit. When you check your bag the Baggage Clerk will direct you to the proper door.

Thx tomfuller

Hi semiramis,

I'm so excited for you to be doing that trip!

Last time I took the Canadian was 2008, and more recently the Ocean in 2010. I purchased the trip on-line but remember picking up regular tickets as well once arrived at Union Station.

I think I arrived around an hour early. Remember, as a sleeper passenger you're entitled to wait in the First Class Lounge area with the VIA1 passengers in Toronto, so it's a pretty pleasant place to while a bit of time if you're early. Comfortable seats, light refreshments (coffee, juice, water) are available there.

If you're asking when you can go to the Dome Car Lounge/Bar Car on the train, I essentially wait until my ticket has been collected, the sleeping car attendant has introduced themselves, explained the routine and then go straightaway to the Dome Car.

Have a blast! Daniel

Thx Daniel
I am so excited I can hardly sit still. I was on the Canadian MANY years ago and loved the trip but it's the first time for my husband. He is really anticipating it.

Any suggestions on what to bring on the train with us?
We are bringing 2 e-readers (a Kindle and a Kobo), some "real" books and magazines, maybe a small Scrabble set and of course the camera.

I took this trip last July and it was wonderful!You will have to pick up your tickets at Union Station before you proceed to the Via 1 lounge for boarding. You can arrange to check your luggage at the baggage room which if my memory serves me right is on the lower level. As for storage in your double cabin, there isn't much so I would suggest you and your husband limit yourselves to a carry size bag each, or you will spend all your time moving suitcases around. as for what to take on the train, it sounds like you have the right idea. I took some binoculars with me which I enjoyed having.
Have a wonderful time.

Thx amygirl
I am totally excited as the day gets closer. My husband just put the binoculars with the e-gear.