Every November, I take a moment to reflect on the incredible 29 years of Canada Rail Vacations. It’s a time to remember where we came from, the people we’ve met, and the journeys we’ve shared. From guiding over 15,000+ travelers on the same routes we now promote, to the relationships we’ve built with loyal repeat guests, these experiences are at the heart of the company.
How It All Began
My Roots in Canada & The Spark that led to Canada Rail Vacations
I was born in Ireland, and my family immigrated to Canada in 1977 when I was a kid. We came here for a better life, and Canada welcomed us with open arms. My love for this country grew through countless camping trips with my parents, exploring Banff, Lake Louise, and beyond. As a teenager, I started exploring the mountains in my own car, which led me to a deep curiosity about Canada’s vast natural beauty — and ultimately to my role as a guide.
“Why don’t you start a company bringing Germans to Canada?”
In 1994, while living in Germany and playing soccer, a conversation with a teammate changed everything. After months of sharing stories about my home country, my friend Matthias’ brother asked, “Why don’t you start a company bringing Germans to Canada?” This idea led to me founding Gaia Travel Services in November 1995. Over the years, the name evolved, and Canada Rail Vacations was born — though we’ll always remember our Gaia roots and respect for Mother Earth and the indigenous peoples of this land.
Memory Lane
Making Friends Along the Way
Repeat Visits
A Story of Friendship
Our most loyal guest has to be Matthias Zergiebel, who first traveled with us in February 1996. Matthias became a regular traveler, returning for ski trips, Yukon adventures, and more. We’ve shared so many memorable journeys together, and in April 2023, he joined us for my 50th birthday celebration aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. Matthias’ visits helped shape our company, and he remains a dear friend who has been instrumental in my journey as a tour operator.
Uniquely Canada
Family History
One of the most unique experiences I had was guiding a tour for a woman from Germany in 2007. She had booked our West Coast Expedition tour because it followed the Skeena River, a place of deep personal significance. In the 1980s, her husband had built a fishing lodge along the river before he passed away. She wanted to visit it, and through some detective work, we managed to find the lodge and meet the new owners. The experience was deeply emotional for all involved, and we were even featured in a local newspaper in Germany.
Epic Journeys
Denise McFarland
In the early days, I helped Denise McFarland plan one of the most unique train journeys across Canada. Denise wanted to experience every passenger rail route available at that time, including every Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail route, and even a private train route. One of the most memorable parts of this journey was a remote trip to Pukatawagan, a place with no guest accommodations—only the chance to book a hospital bed if there was room! It was an unforgettable adventure for Denise and a highlight of our company’s early years. I met up with Denise and travelled with her in August 2012 from Jasper to Quesnel to Whistler to Vancouver.
Right Side of the Tracks
Heartwarming Stories
Family Time
Unforgettable Memories
In August 2013, I had the privilege of taking my dad and stepmom aboard the Rocky Mountaineer for a special trip from Calgary to Vancouver. After losing their home to the devastating floods in June 2013, this trip offered them a chance to relax and rejuvenate. The time we spent on that train, sharing stories and creating new memories, remains one of the most meaningful moments in my life.
Across the Pond
Celebrity Sighting
Mark and Anne Williams, a couple from the UK, have booked multiple trips with us, and their love for Canada continues to inspire us. I had the pleasure of meeting them for dinner in London, where we reminisced about their many journeys with us. Their most memorable moment was during a trip to the Rockies, when they were on their way through Ottawa and attended a Michael Bublé concert. Mark’s cell phone became a prop when Michael Bublé took a selfie with it, with Mark and Anne in the background — a fun, unexpected moment that perfectly captures the magic of travel.
Lasting Partnership
Stephan Goldhahn
We’re also incredibly grateful to Stephan Goldhahn, the owner of Reiseclub Cottbus in Germany. As a tour operator, Stephan has sent over 500 clients to us, covering a wide range of tours including those through Western Canada, the Yukon, Churchill, and Eastern Canada. His partnership with us has been invaluable, and we’re proud to have him as a part of our extended family.
The Last Totem Rail Explorer
Full-Circle
Before the pandemic, one of our signature tours was the Totem Rail Explorer, a route I first created and guided back in 1996. In 2019, a group had booked the tour, but their trip was cancelled due to the pandemic. We honored their original price and trip, and in 2022, they finally experienced the journey they had dreamed of. It was a beautiful full-circle moment for the Totem Rail Explorer and a reminder of how travel connects us all.
Canada by Rail, Your Way.
Looking to the Future
Giving Back
Donating to Worthy Causes
Giving back has always been one of our core values as a company, and it remains deeply important to us. We believe that supporting our community and helping those in need is not just a responsibility but a privilege. Over the years, we’ve contributed to local charities and donated to causes close to our hearts, striving to make a positive impact. To mention a few, we have supported the Calgary Flames Alumni Masters for CP Kids and Families, Kids Up Front Calgary, The Branch Out Foundation, and the Epilepsy Association of Calgary. These efforts reflect our commitment to building a better future for everyone. If you’d like to learn more about our initiatives or discover ways to get involved, you can find details here: Connecting Hearts and Track
The Team
Diverse Experiences
At Canada Rail Vacations, we believe that exceptional travel experiences start with exceptional people. Our dedicated team is more than just a group of train travel experts; we’re like family. Each member brings unique skills, deep knowledge of Canadian rail travel, and a shared passion for creating unforgettable journeys. From Spencer, our dynamic Sales Manager, to Dalton, who ensures your plans are seamless, and everyone in between, we’re all committed to delivering personalized service with a smile. When you travel with us, you’re not just booking a trip — you’re joining a family of people who genuinely care about making your adventure truly extraordinary.
Thank you for taking this journey with us. Here’s to many more years of exploration, connection, and unforgettable memories across this incredible country!
Martin Flanagan
Founder, General Manager, and Tour Guide since 1995
Canada Rail Vacations
