I flew to Vancouver BC via Japan Air. One of the best flights from Melbourne to the North American continent that I’ve ever taken.

It was just 9 hours in the same time zone from Melbourne to Narita airport. I had two hours to walk around in the airport and then a 9 hour flight to Vancouver BC. I had an economy ticket, but the stewardesses were so attentive, and the toilet was a joy. The toilet had a mirror, space to stand up, and a bidet toilet.

I visited my cousins in Vancouver, and then took the train to the USA. I’d not been on the train for many years. Amtrak was on time from Vancouver, B.C. To Vancouver WA. The views were great and my fellow passengers were very friendly. A big change from constantly traveling by plane.

After a short visit with a friend in Washington State, I boarded the Empire builder to complete my journey to Minnesota. I had a roomette. My attendant, Lynn was amazing.

My fellow passengers were very friendly. I enjoyed walking to the observation car, and sharing my journey with fellow passengers while watching the mountains glide by.

I was allowed to have a needle on board and enjoyed working on my embroidery while talking and enjoying the view. I almost finished this scarf featuring blue fairy wrens for a Christmas present.

We followed the Columbia Gorge out of Washington State.

The river flowed next to the train, and we could see Mount Hood in the distance. Lynn brought us dinner, and made up my bed. I went to sleep and woke up to watch the sunrise over the mountains in Idaho.

The train continued on through Glacier National Park.

It was a wonderful trip, as warned we arrived in Minnesota three hours late, so be sure not to plan every minute. Instead live each minute, try the train.