Hello Stevmag, I went on this holiday May 2008. I went with Just you our group where unable to upgrade to Gold Leaf due to unavailabilty of seating. So we all travelled Red Leaf. This did not take anything away from the holiday. We had our own compartment on the train, we had access to a viewing platform, had our own restroom. We where all looked after by a most lovely train guide called Doug.
The food though cold was excellent as where the beveredges hot and cold. The food and snacks seemed nonstop. We saw lots of different scenery, places of interest, wild life all with an informative commentary from Doug!. We stayed overnight at Kamloops in an hotel, yes we all took overnight bags no great hardship there. Very close by was a bar and restaurant. After we had gone to our rooms, most of us had a walk and met up with the others at the bar. The hotel laid on a basic continental, this didnot matter as when we got back onto the train breakfast was served. It would have been nice to upgrade but on reflection we didjust as well, we had a good train guide, fantastic company, scenery etc..
We had rain some of the time what you realise is it hits the Gold Leaf domes before Red Leaf!!. However it is up to you which you decide on, Just remember you will have fantastic company and journey. I hope you have a good holiday whatever you decide on. I know I enjoyed my time on the Rocky Moutaineer, I did the add on cruise this was excellent. Take care and enjoy your journey.
Lillie.