Thanks Amygirl for your reassurance. Davidess, thanks for the hotel recommendations- it looks like they will both suit my purposes. I will probably have more questions as the trip approaches, but so far my only question is how much is customary to tip the Via Rail staff? I've also posted a question about Vancouver you might be able to help with. Thanks again.

Hi, JennyL--tipping VIArail personnel is a highly individual thing. I tend to throw it around a bit as I really love trains and those who work on them. If you're going right across Canada, find out if the sleeping car attendant is going straight through or whether he/she is changing off in Winnipeg. You can adjust accordingly. The higher-level the accommodation, the higher the tip (assuming a consistently high level of service). The main tips go to the sleeping-car attendant and to the dining-car server. For a cross-Canada trip in a bedroom with normal service (fresh linens, towels, putting the beds up and down at a reasonable hour, pointing out things along the way, etc) $CDN 15-20, but more if special service is provided (meals brought to the bedroom if indisposed, putting the bedroom in sleeping order at 2 am after a party, etc). I tend to go higher, but it ain't necessary.

The bar steward in the "Park" observation car at the rear of the train is tipped every time he/she procures a drink for you. Suit yourself.

The Passenger Service Manager on the train is not tipped, but the servers in the dining car most certainly are. You'll be able to tell from the menus what the prices are, even though your meals are included with your ticket (Tor-Van). 15-20% works every time.

For Vancouver questions, etc, I expect that Amygirl on this thread is your guide. She lives in the west (she's the rail enthusiast who insists that the berths are fine...fine!! for a cross-Canada trip. Nah.

DES

To Davidess: I agree with you that upper and lower berths are not fine for a cross Canada trip, but if that is all that Jenny L can get, she will be fine...it's only 3 days! Jenny L: Had some trouble finding your other post re Vancouver and have answered that as best I could. I live in Victoria so my Vancouver help is limited! Good Luck.

Thanks, Davidess and Amygirl. Amygirl, my question about Vancouver was basically what area to stay in, but I think I've figured that out. I'm looking for good kayaking locations....looking for a calm paddle rather than rough surf. I know there's a place at Granville Island and Bowen Island, but I don't know which one is better or if there are other better options.

For all those who were concerned we did get a room, after being on the waiting list for about 3 weeks. Does anyone know where I can find a map of the train? I didn't see one on the Via website. We are in Room C Car 139, and I'm just curious to see where it is on the train. Thanks.