Frequently Asked Questions
Things to Know Before you Go!
After looking through our Web Site Brochure and perusing
our enticing selection of tours, you may have some questions. Please
read over this section and see if the answers you are looking for are
here. If not, our helpful Tour Coordinators are available by toll-free
phone, fax or email, and will be happy to provide you with any information
you require.
 Table of Contents
- About Our Tours
- About the Trains
- Contacting Us
- General Conditions and Waiver
About Our Tours
What is the difference between a Guided Group Tour and an Independent Holiday?
Guided Group Tours are directed by a John Steel guide who handles tickets, check-ins and tour arrangements on your behalf while you are on the tour. Guided groups depart on pre-set dates. An Independent Holiday may depart at any time based on availability, and allows you to personally look after your travel documents and maintain a pace that suits you. We provide our independent guests with travel tips and many of the included sightseeing tours are narrated. Regardless of the travel option you choose, the destinations and trains are memorable and you'll be sure to receive John Steel's friendly professional service and attention to detail.
What is covered in the tour price?
John Steel Rail Tours' inclusions are some of the most comprehensive in the industry. In our Tour brochures we take care to clearly show you what your tour inclusions are. Custom itineraries are also carefully detailed. Please see the Tour Inclusions and Info to Know sheet. [ Download PDF ]
What about meals?
On Independent Tours most meals are the guest's responsibility. If you are travelling in sleeping car accommodations on VIA Rail's overnight trains, select meals are included and you are free to make your own selection from the dining room menu (alcoholic beverages not included). At times, a pre-set menu with options is available. With the exception of an occasional buffet, you are free to choose from the menu during included restaurant meals. If you have dietary requirements, please advise us at the time of booking. On Amtrak, select meals are complimentary.
What type of hotels can I expect?
Hotels are the best available in the area and/or chosen category — either Premier or Popular. Location, reputation, amenities, cleanliness, service and overall hospitality are some of the attributes we seek when selecting hotels. Popular category may include such recognized chains as Delta, Best Western and Coast Hotels. Premier category may include the renowned Fairmont ( formerly Canadian Pacific) chain of hotels: Jasper Park Lodge, Banff Springs, Royal York and Chateau Lake Louise, to name a few. Please note: triple/quad occupancy may be available. Please inquire.
What about baggage handling?
On Independent Tours baggage handling is generally the responsibility of the guest. If you would like baggage handling included, please advise the JSRT Tour Consultant at time of reservation. Please note that at international border crossings, by law, guests must handle their own luggage. TRAVEL TIP: It is recommended that you pack a small carry-on bag for overnight rail journeys, as sleeping-car luggage space is very limited. You may check larger items onto the baggage car but it will not be available until arrival at the train's final destination.
How accessible are your tours?
We make every effort to accommodate our special-needs guests. Most hotels are wheelchair accessible. The special services for rail passengers with reduced mobility vary depending on train cars and, with advance notice arrangements can be made for wheelchair assistance at certain rail stations. Please inform our Tour Coordinators of these requests at the time of your initial reservation.
What about connecting travel arrangements?
We recommend that you do not make closely connecting travel arrangements before and/or after your tour. Rail travel may be subject to unforeseen delays. John Steel Rail Tours is not responsible for missed connections.
Crossing Borders: US and Canada — What identification do I need?
It is the responsibility of each passenger to carry appropriate citizenship identification. In some cases, you may require a visa. Because regulations and deadline dates are evolving, we suggest that each guest familiarize themselves with the most current information issued directly from official sources. For more information, visit the official website of the [ Canadian Tourism Commission ] and [ Transport Canada's "Planning To Travel" ] website. For air travellers in USA, see the [ Federal Aviation Administration's "Travelers Topics" ]. NB: If you are crossing any international borders, or flying, please note that all medications must be in their original packaging and/or properly labelled by your pharmacist.
What's the weather like in North America?
Canada and much of the United States enjoy four distinct seasons, with temperatures varying across the country. On the East coast and central provinces (Ontario and Québec), and northern central states temperatures average around 0°C (23°F) in January and 24°C (75°F) in July. Areas around the Great Lakes are more humid than the rest of the continent, and temperatures can get a little colder in winter and warmer in summer. Western mountain temperatures offer the greatest variation, from -16°C (-4°F) in winter to 24°C (75°F) in summer. When visiting the Rockies, be sure to have layers of comfortable clothing available in case of sudden changes in weather conditions. The summer evenings tend to be cool. In winter, come dressed for snow with warm and wind/water-repellent outerwear. West coast cities (Vancouver, Victoria, Seattle, Los Angeles) enjoy the mild weather year-round. The West Coast averages 5°C (40°F) in winter and 23°C (75°F) in summer. It's wise to bring an umbrella and raincoat, just in case it rains. The southern states do not experience four seasons and temperatures are moderate. Our Tour Coordinators will be happy to answer any questions you may have.[ Explore North America ]
What kind of clothing should I bring?
We suggest that you bring comfortable, casual clothing. For winter trips or northern adventures, warm, wind/waterproof outerwear is a must. If travelling on overnight trains, you may wish to pack a light robe and slippers for after your shower. Some guests like to dress up a little for dinner, but it is your choice. Apparel such as golf shirts and neat trousers will carry you comfortably and appropriately in Canadian cities or countryside, on the train, and in hotels. Also, please wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and pack clothing that is versatile and can be layered to accommodate a range of weather conditions and activities.
Is there anything else I should bring?
You might want to bring a book you've been meaning to read, or a journal to record the highlights of your holiday. As well, a camera will capture the spectacular scenery and supply a record of people and places visited.
About the Trains
What is it like on the Train?
The train offers you the very best opportunity to see Canada and the United States up close. Travelling through vast and varied landscapes, rail travel is a world unto itself. A spirit of friendliness is shared in the lounges, scenic dome and dining car. Guests in sleeping cars can retreat to their cozy accommodations and enjoy the splendid scenery passing by the train's large picture windows. Delicious meals, professional on-board staff, and even showers in the sleeping cars are some of the amenities. Free tea and coffee, videos, games and magazines are available in the Bullet Lounge (at the rear of the train) for sleeping-car passengers. This car also has a bar where soft drinks, alcoholic beverages and ice are available. You are welcome to enjoy your own beverages in your private accommodations. On-board drinking water is filtered. [ Download PDF ]
What are the train accommodations like?
VIA Rail Accommodations Enjoy panoramic views from the scenic dome car (on select trains), socialize in the lounges and savour freshly prepared meals in the dining car or comfortably at your seat. Sleeping car accommodations on overnight journeys are a restful retreat with all the comforts of home. Most VIA Rail sleeping cars have a convenient shower room and provide amenity kits. Single Bedroom: This entirely private room for one person features a private washroom, sink and mirror. A comfortable sofa chair by day converts to a cozy bed by night. The shower is nearby. There is also a Bedroom available for two, with armchairs, a small closet, and upper and lower berths by night. Ensuite Bedroom: (Subject to availability.) Two double bedrooms are combined to create a larger area for families or those wanting extra space. Upper and Lower Berths: A semi-private area for two people, the wide couch-style seats give way to comfortable beds. Washroom and shower facilities are located only a few metres away. [ Download PDF ]
Amtrak Accommodations Trains travelling long-distance routes use either the two-level Superliner or the one-level Viewliner train car equipment, each of which has sleeping cars with bedrooms. Sleeping accommodations and a full-service dining car are available on most long-distance routes. The Superliner Roomette, ideal for one or two passengers, is located on both upper and lower levels of the double-decker Superliner cars. A Superliner Bedroom is ideal for two passengers and has a comfortable bed and an upper berth that folds down from above. All Superliner Bedrooms feature private, self-enclosed restrooms with toilet, sink and shower. Also available is a Family Bedroom and an Accessible Bedroom for passengers with mobility impairment. The Viewliner Deluxe Bedroom has two beds, private enclosed shower and bathroom with a sink. The Viewliner Standard Bedroom has beds with the lower berth converting into two seats in the daytime. Each room includes a sink and toilet and a shower located down the hall. [ Download PDF ]
How many days does it take to travel across the country?
VIA Rail's Canadian leaves Vancouver in the evening and arrives in Toronto four days later, three nights on the train. Connecting train, the Corridor (Toronto to Montréal) adds a five-hour trip and the Ocean (Montréal to Halifax) adds another night aboard the train. Crossing the US from coast to coast on the Sunset Limited (a single train journey) for example, from Orlando, FL to Los Angeles, CA is three nights in duration. Or New York—Chicago (Cardinal) and on to Seattle (Empire Builder) takes four days.
If I depart Vancouver BC in the evening, don't I miss all the scenery?
The current VIA Rail Schedule allows guests travelling east to west or west to east, the opportunity to view the Canadian Rockies by daylight all year round.
Contacting Us
How do I get in touch with you?
Call our Tour Coordinators toll-free in North America 1-800-988-5778, toll free International 1-800-7245-7245 or fax 1-866-890-9370, 9am to 5pm PST, Monday to Friday, except Canadian statutory holidays. [ Contact Page ]
To Get the Most Out of Your John Steel Tour
At John Steel Rail Tours our entire team is dedicated to carefully pre-arranging all the details that make up every itinerary. On the rare occasion that itinerary changes become necessary, our intent is always to do what is best for our guests. As you travel to destinations that are new to you and often very different from home, we suggest that flexibility and a willingness to enjoy events as they unfold will make for a carefree and thoroughly enjoyable holiday!
Thank you for your interest in John Steel Rail Tours. Let us show you this great land of ours — up close and in comfort, on a John Steel rail journey. Please email us at info@johnsteel.com or call to speak with one of our helpful Tour Coordinators. We pride ourselves on our outstanding service and want to ensure that you have a memorable holiday experience. At John Steel Rail Tours, it's what we do best. Important Notice: Please be advised that all products and/or services are subject to John Sharpe's Rail Tours Ltd., operating as John Steel Rail Tours, General Conditions & Waiver. Information in all literature, including prices and inclusions, is subject to change without notice.
How to Book your Tour?
Book your tour today, just download our Touring Booking form and send it to our Tour Consultants so they can arrange your rail adventure. Tour Booking Form
You can also call, fax or email us with any questions you might have before booking your tour.
General Conditions and Waiver
General Conditions and Waiver
The following are John Sharpe's Rail Tours Ltd., operating as John Steel Rail Tours, General Conditions and Waiver. All services and/or products offered by John Sharpe's Rail Tours Ltd., operating as John Steel Rail Tours, are subject to these General Conditions and Waiver. (Please note that John Sharpe's Rail Tours Ltd. is also referred to as "JSRT" in this document.)
Prices and Payments: All prices are stated in Canadian and United States dollars. All USD prices may be subject to a surcharge due to market fluctuations. All prices are subject to change without notice. All prices include our administration, planning and operational expenses. Component breakdown of any tour is not available. Payment may be made by American Express, MasterCard, VISA or bank draft. Credit cards used for payment must be in the name of the traveller unless otherwise approved. Deposits: Tour Packages: (Group & Independent) A minimum $250 CAD/$200 USD per person is due to confirm reservation unless booking within 60 days of departure, in which case we will require a credit card guaranteeing full payment before we check availability. Custom Itineraries: A goodwill deposit of minimum $50 CAD/$40 USD for Independent Holidays and minimum $100 CAD/$80 USD for Charter Group Tours is required for development of any custom itineraries. This deposit is refundable if space cannot be obtained except if booking within 30 days of departure, in which case the deposit is non-refundable. Upon confirmation of your reservation, the policies in effect for Tour Packages will apply. Final Payment: Full payment is due no less than sixty (60) days prior to departure. If booking within 60 days of departure, full payment is due to confirm reservation. If payments are not received by the due date(s) specified, reservations may be cancelled without notice. We regret, unless otherwise stated, all payments are 100% non-refundable. Cancellations: As payments are non-refundable, we recommend that guests purchase optional cancellation insurance. Please contact your JSRT representative for cancellation insurance details. In the event that you need to cancel your tour reservation, you must notify JSRT and the insurance company (if applicable) immediately. Please note that no refunds or adjustments will be made for portions of the trip and tour services not used or taken, for whatever reason, once tour has commenced. Tours or portions of tours and the activities described in tour itineraries may be subject to weather or other conditions and/or availability and may be changed or cancelled without notice. Guests booking based on twin/double accommodation may be assessed a single occupancy surcharge if either one of the parties cancels prior to or during the tour. Changes to Tour Reservation: Please request any special arrangements at time of initial reservation. If you need to change your reservation once confirmed, we will do our very best to satisfy your needs, however, all changes are subject to availability and your tour price may change. In addition, for changes requested after final payment has been processed, there may be a minimum surcharge of $50 CAD/$40 USD per reservation. Availability and Eligibility: All tours and/or products offered by JSRT are subject to availability. Space on tours is allocated on a first-come, first-serve basis, so please book early for best selection. There is a minimum number of participants required to operate each group tour. JSRT reserves the right to cancel any tours and refund payments received in full. Guests must be able to independently take part in all aspects of the tour without assistance. Should any passenger require assistance with mobility or other personal needs they must be accompanied by a caregiver or JSRT reserves the right to assign a caregiver and charge the guest for required services. JSRT reserves the right to refuse passage (prior to or after departure) to any guest. Travel Packages and Documentation: Travel packages will be sent from our office 21 days prior to departure via courier service. JSRT cannot be responsible for documentation lost by any delivery service, however, we will replace a travel package as promptly as possible upon confirmation from the delivery service that they have waylaid or lost the original package. Vouchers (also referred to as "tour documents") issued to guests are not replaceable if lost or stolen (except as otherwise noted). Please note that vouchers have no cash value and are not transferable. Our suppliers will accept only original vouchers. In the event of changes to or cancellation of reservation(s), the voucher(s) become(s) void and if subsequently used, full package price will be charged to a credit card. Hotels: Please note that every hotel has a posted check-in and check-out time, and that hotel rooms may not be available outside of these times. This is especially important in cases of early arrival. Furthermore, hotel rooms are contracted on a "run of the house" basis, and requests regarding type of room and specific location cannot be guaranteed. In some hotels, guest rooms may vary from each other in terms of size, decor, amenities, and other attributes. JSRT reserves the right to substitute hotel accommodation of similar grade to those listed in tour brochure(s). Note: Accommodation in Prince Rupert and Prince George is available in Popular class only, therefore, Premier options have upgraded rooms in these properties. Baggage: Unless otherwise noted, each guest is permitted one medium-sized suitcase (maximum 23 kg or 50 lbs and approx. 63 by 46 by 23 cm or 25 by 18 by 9 inches), and one small carry-on bag (must meet current airline size rules; may not exceed 23 by 40 by 50 centimetres or 9 by 16 by 20 inches). Guests travelling aboard VIA Rail will have to check their suitcase onto the baggage car and will not have access to it during the journey, so please pack accordingly. Personal Expenses: JSRT assumes no responsibility for any expenses other than those itemized in individual tour itineraries. No personal expenditures, including but not limited to telephone, entertainment, laundry etc., will be paid for by JSRT. Seating: Seating on motorcoaches and other transportation services is usually available only on a first-come, first-serve basis. During group tours, all guests are requested to participate in seat rotations. International Travel: Passports and visas: each guest is responsible for obtaining and having with him/her during the tour, a passport and/or visa(s) and/or any other documentation that may be required during the operation of the tour. We strongly recommend that if you are not already covered, you obtain extended medical coverage to cover you during your holiday. Please note that all medications must be properly labelled for crossing international borders. Connections: JSRT does not recommend that you make, or have your agent make, closely connecting travel arrangements before and/or after tour. All travel, including rail, may be subject to unforeseen delays. JSRT is not responsible for missed connections. Smoking: No smoking is permitted on board VIA Rail or Amtrak trains. Commissions: Some tours are commissionable to qualifying groups and agents. Please call for details. Commissions are paid after the date of final day of tour. Language: All services and/or products offered by JSRT are provided in the English language only, unless otherwise indicated. Maps, Photographs and Illustrations: Maps, photographs and illustrations are shown for general information only. Actual routings may differ from those shown on maps. Photographs may show places in a general geographic area that may not be included in a tour. Liability Waiver: John Sharpe's Rail Tours Ltd., operating as John Steel Rail Tours (hereafter called JSRT), acts only as an agent for all services offered, including but not limited to accommodations, transportation, activities, and sightseeing. Although JSRT takes great care in selecting suppliers and personnel, JSRT shall not be responsible and shall not be held liable for any loss, damage, cost, expenses, delay, inconvenience, or injury occasioned from any cause whatsoever and without limiting the foregoing. JSRT shall not be responsible and shall not be held liable for any loss, damage, cost, expenses, delay, inconvenience, or injury whether direct or consequential and whether in contract or not, and to property and/or persons, resulting from delays, substitutions of equipment and/or facilities, mechanical defects or failures, however caused, or any omission, negligence, act, or any default by any representative of JSRT, any carrier or supplier, their employees, agents, and subcontractors. The purchase of any services from JSRT constitutes an express waiver of any claims for loss, damage, cost, expense, delay, inconvenience, or injury to person or property arising out of action concerning or in any way connected to the services provided or to be provided by JSRT. No representative of JSRT or any supplier offered herein has the authority to modify or waiver any provisions of these General Conditions & Waiver. The travel services and other services offered by JSRT are subject to the conditions imposed by the suppliers. Their liability is limited by their tariffs, conditions of carriage, tickets, and vouchers. In the event that any service offered is cancelled or cannot be supplied, JSRT shall have no responsibility beyond the possible refund of all moneys paid by the purchaser, which shall constitute a full settlement. Bookings are accepted subject to the conditions contained herein, and to the conditions imposed by the suppliers. Unconditional acceptance of all of these conditions by the purchaser shall be evidenced and considered binding upon purchase by a request for booking. Registration: John Sharpe's Rail Tours Ltd., operating as John Steel Rail Tours, is registered under the Travel Agents Act of British Columbia, Canada, registration #2042-5. For the protection of our clients and their moneys, all moneys received by JSRT are deemed to be held in trust, according to the Act guidelines, for the person(s) who paid it. This publication supercedes any previous JSRT publication, and the terms and conditions contained herein are subject to change without notice. This concludes John Sharpe's Rail Tours Ltd. (located in Gibsons BC, Canada, and operating as John Steel Rail Tours) General Conditions and Waiver — September 30, 2005.
[ Download PDF ]
|
