Calgary, a dynamic city famous for the Olympics, hockey, and its impressive mountain scenery, won’t disappoint. Take your time exploring the many and varied sites and attractions such as the Calgary Tower which stands some 1228 meters above sea level giving you an astonishing 360° view of the city, the Rocky Mountains and the meadows. And you won’t be disappointed with the array of gastronomical delights here, savour a generous cut of pure Alberta beef, Asian-inspired raw seafood, or an exciting vegetarian meal, this city truly has it all.

Cradled among the soaring, snowy-peaked mountains of Banff National Park, the lively resort town of Banff is a gateway to the Canadian Rockies. Allow the warm mineral waters at Banff Upper Hot Springs to melt all your worries away. Hike the parks pristine wilderness trails or soak up the regions culture by visiting the Banff Park Museum, Canada’s oldest natural history museum which houses over 5,000 botanical and zoological specimens.

Be spellbound by the awe-inspiring natural wonder of Lake Louise, its turquoise lakes, the Victoria Glacier and soaring mountain backdrop makes this a rare place that needs to be seen to be believed. Relish every moment as you walk around the lake, and you’ll be treated to a wonderful view of Lake Louise Boathouse perched on the water’s edge. Make sure you walk far enough around the lake to witness the fairy-tale Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

You’ll now start your thrilling adventure on board Rocky Mountaineer, as you glide into the heart of the Canadian Rockies in understated luxury. Settling into your seat, stare out at the green pines blurring past your window and enjoy particular highlights such as the Spiral Tunnels and Kicking Horse Canyon. Spread out over two days, this journey pauses in Kamloops for an overnight stay before you continue your journey across Canada.

Upgrade to the GoldLeaf Service

With the option to upgrade to Rocky Mountaineer’s GoldLeaf service (SilverLeaf is the standard cabin grade), you could experience undulating panoramas (pictured) of the sublime Canadian Rockies through the train’s full glass-dome windows.

During your second day on board Rocky Mountaineer, you’ll be treated to enthralling views of unfurling emerald forests and icy blue rivers that snake through dramatic gorges as your train trundles over bridges, winds around mountains and races through tunnels on its way to Vancouver for a two-night stay.

Vancouver provides stunning scenery to discover with endless outdoor activities all year-round. Uncover an urban escape with a stroll through beloved Stanley Park, home to forest wildlife and scenic beaches. Then walk to atmospheric Gastown, a district filled with Victorian-style buildings, delicious eateries and fabulous art galleries. In the evening, you could head to a local cabaret and enjoy its lively atmosphere while sampling some craft beer.

Today you’ll embark Holland America's Koningsdam, a sleek and spacious ship with refined dining options, fabulous entertainment and cosy bars. Launched in 2016, Koningsdam is the newest and largest Holland America ship of the new Pinnacle class. A destination in herself, this ship offers much to explore including delicious dining options, world-class entertainment and enriching activities.

Today you’ll pass through Alaska’s wondrous Inside Passage, a network of winding waterways shaped by staggering glaciers, wildlife-filled fjords and verdant rainforests. A cruise through the Inside Passage provides an experience like no other, as you pass through breath taking island scenery and quaint Native American towns, the Inside Passage showcases Alaska’s colourful culture and natural wonders.

Remote Juneau is perfect for escaping modern life. Nestled in the heart of Alaskan forests, enjoy the chance to breathe in the fresh air and explore by heading up the Mount Roberts Tramway to look back on this wonderous view of green pines rising high. At this point you may already feel like you are venturing into the deep wilderness. It only gets better as you could also visit the Mendenhall Glacier snaking into the lake.

Once known for the Gold-Rush era, Skagway has settled down into a busy city. Vintage railways run through this historic city and provide incredible views along its tracks. The beauty in Alaska is unparalleled especially by kayaking on the Dewey lake, listening to the overwhelming silence broken only by the sounds of nature.

Make sure you wrap up warm as you head into Glacier Bay for the next part of your cruise. Marvel at the jagged glaciers and snow dusted mountains and try to catch a glimpse of some Alaska’s abundant wildlife so see if there are any brown bears or sea otters on the shoreline too.

Alaska’s First City is the place to learn about native Alaskan culture and admire its amazing collection of colourful totem poles. You can see more of these intricate carvings, each with their own design that tell stories of individuals and clans at the Totem Heritage Centre. Ketchikan is also known for its salmon fishing and busy waterfront, buzzing with fishing boats and pleasure craft.

Sailing the Inside Passage offers plenty of opportunities to spot Alaska’s most iconic wildlife, keep your eyes on the bountiful waters to see magnificent humpback whales and majestic Orca, or look out for brown bears lumbering on the shoreline. For bird-lovers cast your eyes on the skies to see bald eagles soaring overhead.

Time to say goodbye to the MS Koningsdam, as you disembark in Vancouver for your flight home.