Home | Contact Us
04_04.gif
email5_trans.gif
arrow1.gif UNITED STATES arrow2.gif CANADA arrow3.gif EUROPE arrow4.gif OTHER DESTINATIONS arrow5.gif GROUPS arrow6.gif DEALS
1_01.gif
3_03.gif

VACATIONS BY RAIL TESTIMONIALS & REVIEWS


 Train Trips in the USA

 Train Trips in Canada

 Train Trips in Europe

 Train Trips Worldwide



“We enjoyed the tour tremedously. The guide (Jan Shields) was outstanding. The way she communicated with her vacationers, keeping us informed and updated on all pertinent information related to the trip. Oh boy, what a wonderful way to see the countryside! Breathtaking views, postcard scenery and endless amazing sights that could only be captured by the naked eye.”
America's Beautiful West
Dot and Doris B. – Stone Mountain, GA

“It was a very enjoyable and well-organized tour of parts of the US that I had not seen before. I gained a very positive impression of the people I met. Whether fellow tour members, service people in restaurants hotels etc, or at the rodeo or the chuck wagon events. We saw some of the extraordinary scenery and history of the US, a generally heart-warming and exciting experience.”
America's Parks & Monuments with Mt. Rushmore
Alan D. – New York, NY

“Can't say enough good things about it. Had a great time.”
Yellowstone & Glacier Adventure Tour
Larry B. – Stafford, VA

“My first time on train tour. Everything was fantastic. All stops were great, one more beautiful than the other. I would recommend this tour to anyone.”
America's Great National Parks
Ronald G. – Washington, PA

“We had an amazing trip and met some really nice people travelling the same route as us...Fairmont Banff and Lake Louise were truly outstanding, with excellent customer service. The bus transfers were very good with very friendly and knowledgeable drivers.”
Winter in the Rockies
Paula G. – New South Wales, Australia

“Everything from train travel to hotels went very smoothly. Your arrangements were great. We particularly appreciated having hotels within walking distance of the train stations in New York and Montreal. Thank you for your good work in setting up an excellent trip for us.”
Custom Amtrak Vacation
Mark M. – Charlottesville, VA

“From beginning to end Vacations by Rail made our trip easy and very managable. Guides met us at each transfer and delivered us to the next location without a hitch. Many times saving us from hours of wandering trying to find the correct hotel or rail station. The only draw back from the entire experience was the city tours. We toured Venice with a tourguide that wasn't in the same compartment as the tourist so questions were out and the speaker system on the boat was so poor only 1 in 10 words could be made out (Evelyn thought it was a recording). In Paris the tourguide was much nicer but her driving was a constant distraction (very Parisian lol). The tour was to have a 15 minute photo stop at the Eiffle Tower, what it didn't explain was the stop would be from 1/2 mile away at the military school looking TOWARD the Eiffle Tower...disappointing. In London we finally ducked out of the tour (after making notification to the guide) and went off on our own unable to face more hours sitting in London traffic looking at the same big red busses in every direction. The hotels in each city were amazing! There was a slight problem (scheduled power outage for electrical upgrades each day all day of our scheduled visit, twin beds on opposite sides of the room, grungy used feeling everywhere) in London with our scheduled hotel but Renee was very quick to set it straight and relocate our party to more comfortable accomodations. London's visit was a bit disappointing in that the Earl's Court / Kennsington area is full of people that don't speak english as a first language. Picture Paris if no one spoke French...unusual. However, all things considered, it was a fantastic vacation and we thank Renee Koplan (she's great!)and everyone else involved with putting it together.”
Venice, Paris, London
Prentiss & Evelyn H. – Leesburg, FL

“We had a GREAT time. It was our third Fun Train vacation - we celebrated our 34th Wedding Anniversary! We loved the SoulTrain theme! The band and dance car were GREAT!!! Our Car 5 hostess was EXCELLENT! ”
Reno Fun Train
Annette T. – Pacifica, CA

“This 'Canada Snow Train' trip was a wonderful adventure. The hotel and travel accommodations and the meals that were included were all excellent. The service from Vacations by Rail was friendly, complete and timely. Thank you so much”
Canadian Snow Train
Louis H. – Bristol, UK

“The overall vacation was most enjoyable, beating our expectations on a number of occasions. We would gladly recommend Vacations By Rail to anyone.”
Trains & Canyons of the West
James & June – Guelph, ON

“My travel partner and I were very pleased (and surprised) about our recent train trip to Chicago. What a no hassle way to go! We found that the wide seats, generous leg room, and not having to buckle a seat belt was all quite wonderful. The Amtrak staff was watchful, the car was clean, and the other travelers were quiet and respectful. We are already planning our spring trip!”
Chicago Rail Vacation
Kathleen – Bloomington, MN

“The food was excellent, the scenery was breath-taking and the other members of our group were happy travelers, fun to be with, and everyone got along famously. We hated to see the trip come to an end.”
Great Canadian Train Ride
Jude & Kathy – Worthington, OH

“My friend Bev and I thoroughtly enjoyed every day of our trip. Every detail and service was first-rate ... All of our hotel accommodations were very impressive and we loved our overnight train trip.”
Rockies Circle West
Sue – Tulsa, OK

“This tour exceeded my expectations and was absolutely spectacular. Thanks!”
Yellowstone, Teton, Mt. Rushmore
Anna Marie – Palm City, FL


“Jen: Sorry to be so late getting in touch again. I have to report the jouirney was fantastic, and all the ones you were associated with went like clockwork. The tour to Grand Canyon (with Pink Jeep Tours) was excellent and the helicopter trip up and back and the boat ride on the Colorado R could not have been better. Nice, cheery group too on the Portland to the Columbia Gorge and Multnoma Falls, plus two extra ones, was a great event despite dullish weather. I walked up the winding footway to the bridge across and in front of the Multnomah. Had no trouble getting on the train to Seattle, and it was interesting, though the bus ride by freeway on to Vancouver was less than exciting. My day at Vancouver Island, Butchart Gardens and Victoria was fabulouis. My tour went in a double-decker bus. Because, I suppose, of its scale, the last journey - the Rocky Mountaineer Grand Circle tour - was quite outstanding. The whole thing ran like a Swiss clock, the participants got on well and the guides were terrific. The helicopter flight, and trip to the top of Sulphur Mountain by gondola were bits not to be missed, and I didn't Did not see a great amount of wild life, but a few black bears, including one quite close. The Cascadia Hotel in Vancouiver was very comfortable, well placed and the staff there outstanding. On one day I walked 5 kilometers around about half of Stanley Park - had not counted on the perpendicular cliffs between the pathway and the road on so much of it. Interersting though. Thank you again Jen for all the guidance you gave me for the trip. We came out winners. Best for the future. Russell
Customized Grand Rail Circle
Russell – N.S.W., Australia

“ Scott, My husband John and I recently took the above-referenced trip from Vancouver to Toronto (May 6th - 19th), and I wanted to take the opportunity to tell you how very much we enjoyed the experience - in every way!

From the perfectly-arranged logistics - to the exquisite Fairmont Hotel accommodations - to the unexpectedly wonderful food on the train - and the attentiveness of the staff - all of these factors added up to the perfect trip! And when you take into consideration the unbelievable beauty of the Canadian Rockies, and the bonus of fabulous weather, this experience goes to the top of the list of the best vacations of all time.

We are so pleased to have been able to take this trip, and wish to personally thank you for your assistance in making it happen.

All the best - ”

Canada By Rail with The Rockies
Ingrid – Bluffton, SC

“Your staff is great, and goes the extra mile to help your customers. Many Thanks!”
Winter In the Rockies
Angela – Mt. Pleasant, SC

“The services from Vacations by Rail were excellent. Scott organised our holiday and was very helpful throughout. We thoroughly enjoyed our trip.”
Customized America by Rail Trip
Belinda – North Queensland, Australia

“Without exception the rail trip including lodging exceeded our expectations reflecting the highest level of excellence.”
Canada by Rail with Jasper
Robert – Chino Valley, AZ

“Wasnt sure what i was getting myself into going from Vancouver to Toronto by rail. But by the end of the trip I was a train fanatic. Loved it all from the food to the people.”
Canada by Rail
Dave – Temecula, CA

“My husband and I had a great time. We enjoyed meeting and making new friends with everybody. The guides were extremely informative and accommodated our needs. Thanks Vacation by Rail. You are the best!”
Canada by Rail
Dave – Temecula, CA

“Our trip to the Grand Canyon by rail was great. All of the connections were perfect. We had a wonderful trip.”
Grand Canyon Rails to the Rim from Los Angeles
Judith – San Jose, CA

“This vacation by far exceeded what we were expecting. We took my parents because my mom has always wanted to see the New England leaves. She has not stopped talking about how great a trip it was. Thank you to Tyson and Jerry for making it a great experience.”
Fall Foliage Express
Laura – Spokane, WA

“Above and beyond what we expected.”
New England Fall Foliage Express
Brent – Cary, NC

“Thanks. It has been a very rewarding experience dealing with you and Cole. It is hard to find people who care and want to help seniors who do not have a lot of experience with online bookings. ”
Overnight trains in Europe
Gabriel – Seattle, WA

“Most stress free vacation I’ve ever had!”
Chicago Vacation
Ken – Finger, TN

“Just a quick note to thank you for your effort to get us on the trip. Every minute of it was exciting and we truly enjoyed all the magnificent scenery and events. We travelled with a nice group and out tour manager, Donna, did a fantastic job. Also we had the very best coach driver. Mark kept the coach immaculately clean, especially the windows ...so the photos taken from the coach are great. Again, many thanks. ”
Trains and Canyons of the West
Annabelle – Frankenmuth, MI

“This was our first rail vacation. It was very nice to have everything included such as meals, hotels, tips & gratuities. Excellent!!”
Fall Colors of New England
Julie – Kirkwood, IL

“I see no improvements you need to make; your staff is highly qualified.”
Reno Vacation
Theresa – Waipahu, HI

“We had a wonderful time. Everyone was very helpful and polite. It was a once in a lifetime vacation!”
Trains Across Colorado
Susan – Aspinwall, IA

“My first time on a train for an extended period – it was delightful.”
Scenic Rail Journeys
Bonnie – San Diego, CA

“This was my first vacation traveling alone. It is intimidating to commit to traveling with strangers for a week at a time…everyone made certain I was included in every event or meal. I am looking forward to my next trip.”
New England Fall Foliage Express
Linda – Rossville, KS

“We really enjoyed our trip. It was our honeymoon. Was really great experience for us both.”
Grand Canyon Rails to the Rim Adventure
Becky – Lockport, NY

“We had a great trip. Very relaxing. That train can rock and roll - almost scary as if it would tip over! But it was great and we loved traveling by train! It forced relaxation which was needed. It was beautiful to be in areas that are not traversed by cars. Fantastic. Thanks for making all the arrangements. It turned out great. ”
Los Angeles to San Francisco Vacation
Patty – Downey, CA

“This was our first vacation by train and we are already talking about where we would like to go in the future. It was especially relaxing for my husband who usually does most of the driving and gets few opportunities to sit and enjoy the scenery.”
Empire Builder Experience
Helen – Wyandotte, MI

“Todd, I wanted to thank you for all your superb help in setting up our trip across Canada Oct 1-6 in Silver and Blue Class. Your assistance was very professional and thorough and the trip was extremely well-planned. Our hotels were the best and all transportation went smoothly. All the materials you sent to us were just perfect. Everything worked as expected and we had a most enjoyable time! I know that too often folks take this sort of service for granted and are quick to complain if it doesn't measure up. Having been a customer service manager for 23 years, I know and appreciate good service and am quick to compliment it because it is the exception, not the rule in the world today. I also recall the day you called me on your day off to let me know you would handle my questions on Monday, very much appreciated at the time. Again, many thanks and wishing you personally, the best. ”
Canada By Rail with Jasper
Marjorie – Portland, OR

“The package to the Grand Canyon was excellent. The hotel accommodations were wonderful and the train trip to the South Rim was great! There was lots to see and lots to do. I appreciate your attentiveness and flexibility when we needed a shuttle from the South Rim to Williams on Sunday morning. Everything was very smooth and seamless. Thank you!”
Rails to the Rim Adventure
Beverly – Azusa, CA

“We had a great time at the Best of the West - Rocky Mountaineer Tour. The bus, the train, the tour guides were awesome. The best place was Chateau Lake Louise and the helicopter ride was amazing. Wish we could have had more time in Victoria and Lake Louise though. Got a bit rushed. Everyone was very gracious! Thank you again for making this possible.”
Best of the West - Rocky Mountaineer
Debra – West Hills, CA

“We had a wonderful time on our vacation Golden West Rail Ramble. Vacations, like true love, never run smooth. But Valerie Sheib, our tour director, did a fine job of smoothing out the rough spots.”
Golden West Rail Ramble
David & Andrea – Fort Myers, FL

“Our Vacations by Rail Best of the West Tour was more than we expected. The tour director and manager were outstanding. The driver of our bus (Larry) was very good and made us feel very comfortable in his driving. The accommodations were good and the food was all very good. The scenery was out of this world and the park guides were very helpful. The only hitch was our return train tickets were wrong (had us leaving from Whitefish, Montana, which we were to leave from Green River, Utah. The Tour Manager, Don, took care of this for us and we got new tickets in Salt Lake City. All in all, I recommend this tour very highly. I'm sure we will be booking another tour in the near future.”
Best of the West
James and Ruth – Duncanville, TX

“We had a WONDERFUL TIME on our rail trip. Our hostess, Sophie, made it all the better. We're contemplating another trip in a couple of years, this time on the GOLD LEAF!!!!”
Rail Only From Banff To Vancouver
Gloria – Avon, IN

“Hi Aurora: Thank you for all your help planning our trip Historic Trains of Arizona. You made our experience with Vacations By Rail a great one.”
Historic Trains of Arizona
Betty – Bethpage, NY

“We had a wonderful time on the trip Fall Colors of the Mississippi. We did miss the days in Chicago, but everyone made us feel very welcomed in St. Louis. The trip was well planned, the food was wonderful, and the staff was great. I loved the flexibility of the tours and the casual atmosphere. The fall colors were spectacular and the scenery relaxing. This was definitely our type of cruising! Thanks for a great job.”
Fall Colors of the Mississippi
Betty – Fair Acres, NM

“Charlotte and I had a FABULOUS vacation! The bedroom was much better than the roomette, the Churchill Hotel was AWESOME (they gave us a four room suite) and the train home yesterday arrived early. We didn’t care for the Blake Hotel in Charlotte as it was funky in a bad way(clientele, lobby and restaurant). However, it was only one night so that made it tolerable. Otherwise, we could not have had a better trip thanks to you. ”
Washington DC Vacation
Chris – Deerfield, IL

“It wasn't the destination. . .it was the journey. I wanted to write to you before I come down completely from the high of my trip. It exceeded my expectations. I was very comfortable in my accommodations. The food was excellent with very generous portions and a varied selection. Desserts (key lime pie, creme brulee, NY cheesecake to name a few) were delicious. The warm oatmeal cookies with raisins just before bedtime was an excellent touch. Wine & cheese party was fun. . I will definitely tell my friends and intend to make my next vacation another trip by rail.”
Empire Builder Experience
Gloria – Long Beach, NY

“This is to officially thank Vacations by Rail, for perfect itinerary planning and connections. Our trip was July 1- July 15, via Amtrak from Wi Dells Wi to Seattle WA and back. Todd also connected us via Victoria Clipper to Victoria BC and toured us through Glacier National Park. All destinations were fulfilled and everyone had our previously paid vouchers upon our arrivals. The train was usually on time and only upon our return leg, it was late by about 45 minutes. Todd was the best to work with…we found him extremely knowledgeable, congenial, and conscientious. Places that he had not previously arranged tours for, he was eager to learn about. Also, Todd knew that this was our 25th anniversary trip, so he tried to arrange more privacy for us. He place us upstairs in train, higher floors with balcony and views in hotels etc. Thank you Todd and Vacations by Rail. We will be Back!! ”
Empire Builder with Glacier National Park
Ron and Mary – Wisconsin Dells, WI

“We are back from our wonderful train trip and want to thank you for all your help and expertise. We all agreed that this trip goes to the top of the list. Hotels were top notch and service was the best imaginable. And, most of all, the scenery was spectacular; we still marvel at the view from our Lake Louise room. Nothing like it anywhere else. So, thanks again for the great advise and all your assistance. You took care of every detail and we greatly appreciate it.”
Western Explorer with Empire Builder Add On
Cindy, Annette, Mary, and Martha – Waterford, MI

“We had a great trip. Very relaxing. That train can rock and roll - almost scary as if it would tip over! But it was great and we loved traveling by train! It forced relaxation which was needed. It was beautiful to be in areas that are not traversed by cars. Fantastic. Thanks for making all the arrangements. It turned out great.”
Coast Starlight Experience
Patty – Los Angeles, CA

email5_trans.gif Sign up for hot rail deals and news!
Home | About Us | Testimonials | Resource Center | Site Map | Contact Us
Contents © 2013 Vacations By Rail Click to verify BBB accreditation and to see a BBB report.