Traveling is truly a dream brought to life, especially when it’s aboard the spectacular Via Rail https://www.viarail.ca/en ! Our journey from Toronto to Ottawa became an exhilarating bucket-list adventure that we joyfully checked off during the Thanksgiving holiday. Welcome to “Railway Reverie: Thanksgiving On The Tracks!“

You know what they say: the best moments often come when we seize opportunities without hesitation, and believe me, this trip was a beautiful embodiment of that! In this blog post, I want to share the incredible experiences and heartfelt memories we created while traveling with Via Rail.

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Thanksgiving On The Tracks : Railway Reverie

Planning The Adventure :

“Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world.” ― Gustav Flaubert

When the opportunity for a holiday presented itself with Thanksgiving in the United States, we knew we had to grab it. Excitedly, we checked tickets and hotel availability in Ottawa, and soon our plans started taking shape. With our tickets booked, we began the countdown to what promised to be a memorable adventure.

Preparation Day :

 “Travelling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” ― Ibn Battuta

Wednesday arrived, and with it, the thrill of preparation. Via Rail has strict guidelines for passengers, somewhat reminiscent of airplane travel. We packed our main luggage, ensuring it weighed no more than 23kg. For those thinking of bringing a carry on, it’s essential to inform Via Rail while booking the tickets. These preparations added to our anticipation, making the journey feel even more special.

The Journey We Took : Thanksgiving On the Tracks

The Day Of Departure :

 “Once the travel bug bites, there is no known antidote, and I know that I shall be happily infected until the end of my life.” ― Michael Palin

When Thursday finally came, we woke up before our alarm went off, filled with excitement. After completing our morning chores, we booked an Uber to transport us to Toronto Union Station. To our surprise, the first snow of the season 2024 had just started in Toronto, adding a magical touch to our journey.

Upon arriving at Union Station, we grabbed breakfast from Tim Hortons https://www.timhortons.ca/?lang=en and stood in line for boarding, as advised to arrive 45 minutes early. Officials scanned our boarding passes and weighed our luggage, applying weight verified stickers for those within the limit and heavy luggage stickers for over the specified weight. Thankfully, ours were weight verified.

We lined up and boarded the train, which resembled a vintage train. In India, they are called coaches, but here, they are referred to as cars. Business car travelers boarded first, followed by economy car travelers. Our car was at the last, and we placed our main luggage in the designated area while keeping our backpacks overhead.

The Via Rail Experience :

The day of departure arrived, filled with anticipation. Boarding Via Rail felt like a dream; the efficient process showcased their organization. The train provided comfort, with spacious seating and large windows revealing stunning landscapes. As we settled in, the thrill of adventure electrified the air. Our tickets were verified, and even as we drifted into slumber, the experience remained enchanting, the train’s gentle rocking perfect for our journey.

Arrival In Ottawa :

We arrived in Ottawa, just moments past the planned arrival time, but the thrill of stepping off the train swept us off our feet. The city’s vibrant atmosphere enveloped us, igniting our senses with the tantalizing promise of unforgettable experiences. From delving into rich historical sites to savoring the exquisite local cuisine, Ottawa beckoned us with an intoxicating blend of culture and charm that left us yearning for more.

Conclusion

Our journey on Via Rail from Toronto to Ottawa was more than just a trip ; it was the realization of a long held dream. The experience was everything we had hoped for and more. If you ever get a chance, to travel with Via Rail, seize the opportunity. It’s just a journey filled with comfort, excitement, and unforgettable memories.