Editor:
There was a recent article in the Vancouver Sun about Via Rail Canada's plan to cut services in the west. Please don't let them do it.
I am 84 years old and my wife and I just returned from a trip from Vancouver to Winnipeg and back. The purpose of the trip was to see the Rockies and the Praries in the winter.
They were both beautiful but even the beauty of Jasper on a sunny day with snow on the mountains was surpassed by the fantastic service, gourmet meals and exceptionally friendly greetings given us by the crew.
The Via Transcontinental is a jewel that few people realize we have and are in danger of losing. Happy hour in the Park Car at the rear of the train consisted of a free glass of champagne and live entertainment by a young singer playing her guitar that Via hired to add a little dressing to an already rewarding experience.
Later in the evening she played in the forward Dome Car for the coach passengers. Later she encouraged other musicians to jam in the Park Car.
There were movies every night as well. I talked to a young fellow who frequently travels from Ontario to Alberta and had never taken the train before. He said he would never travel any other way from now on.
Most Canadians don't seem to know what a jewel we have and therefore don't care whether we lose it or not. I do, and I think that more Canadians should give it a try the next time they want a real good time crossing Canada or are just going to the Prairies.
Ken Atkey
