Q&A with Cindy: Why the Rocky Mountaineer Should Be on Your Travel List

There’s no better way to get a true sense of a vacation than hearing about it from a trusted friend.  A good travel story gives you the details you won’t find in brochures—the little moments, the views that took their breath away, and the experiences that made the trip unforgettable.

That’s why we’re excited to share the journey of our President, Cindy Anderson, who recently traveled aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, one of the world’s premier luxury trains. 

This legendary rail experience winds through the Canadian Rockies, treating you to panoramic views of snowcapped peaks, turquoise lakes, winding rivers, and dramatic canyons—all from the comfort of a glass-domed train car. Along the way, gourmet meals are served at your seat, and the onboard hosts share stories of the history, wildlife, and landmarks passing just outside your window.

Rail travel is unlike any other kind of trip–you can simply relax into the rhythm of the train and watch the scenery unfold. With multiple routes through Western Canada, the Rocky Mountaineer connects you to iconic destinations like Vancouver, Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, and Calgary. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime way to see the Rockies in comfort and style.

We sat down with Cindy after her trip to hear firsthand what it was like to experience the Rocky Mountaineer. From her favorite views to the moments that surprised her, here’s her take on why this train journey should be on every traveler’s list.

What inspired you to take a trip on the Rocky Mountaineer? 

We love the idea of not having to drive to see the Canadian Rockies. It was so nice just being able to relax and watch the scenery go by in a beautiful glass-domed car.

Did you have a favorite ritual on the train each day (morning coffee, afternoon wine, quiet moments watching the mountains roll by)?

It was wonderful. They served us coffee and a French pastry each morning, and then we would have a full breakfast. My favorite was the Eggs Benedict. In the afternoons after lunch, we would sip on wine, and they served us cheese and crackers and all kinds of treats.

What amenities or touches made the train ride feel especially luxurious? 

We received excellent service, and the tour guides had such knowledge of the Rockies. There were fabulous meals and snacks, heated seats, and the outside deck was a must for great picture taking.

What’s something about the Rocky Mountaineer experience that most people wouldn’t expect? 

You never handle your luggage–it is all done for you. Even checking into the hotels is done for you.

Was there a particular view or stretch of track where you felt completely awe-struck? 

I really can’t pick just one! We loved seeing the Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, the eagles’ nests, the beautiful waterfalls, and, of course, the glaciers.

If you could extend your time in just one stop, which would it be and why? 

I loved Banff! There’s so much to see and do there. It’s a beautiful town in the heart of the mountains, and the Gondola Ride is spectacular.

How do you think this trip compares with a cruise or other luxury vacation? 

It was all luxury, except we never had to dress up, which we loved.

Is this trip accessible to most travelers? 

Yes, they even have an elevator on the train for people with mobility issues.

Is there a best time of year you’d recommend for this journey? 

I recommend spring or fall. That’s when you’ll see the most wildlife, and there are fewer tourists.

Is there a story you’ll be telling your friends and clients again and again? 

We have been telling all our friends it is the best way to see the Rockies. If you go, be sure to spend some time in Vancouver, B.C. It has so much to offer–history, culture, views, shopping, and restaurants. Plus, we took a seaplane ride there, which was amazing.