Travel between Ontario and Quebec is about to get easier. VIA Rail is sending out more trains this week, thanks to an "increase in demand." VIA Rail service had been reduced in recent months, but will now be partially reinstated.
As of June 3, two more trains will be added between Toronto and Montreal. Three previously unavailable routes through Ontario have also returned.
The rail company said in a recent press release that there are new safety protocols for passengers.
Travellers are asked to wear a face mask, as it's possible that they could encounter situations where it's difficult to social distance.
“VIA Rail continues to adjust its operations and deploys a strict protocol of sanitary measures onboard its trains, in its stations, maintenance centres and call centres in response to the pandemic and in order to minimize the spread of COVID-19,” read a statement from VIA Rail.
“We have limited the number of bookable seats aboard our trains in order to provide passengers physical distancing space when travelling,” it added.
Passengers will be denied boarding if they are "experiencing symptoms similar to a cold or flu."
You will also be turned away if you have been denied boarding in the last 14 days for similar reasons.
VIA Rail released a list of all their returning train routes. Several trips between Ontario cities have been added, including Toronto, London, Kingston, Windsor and Sarnia.
If you’ve had previously made reservations that were cancelled by a suspension of services, VIA Rail notes that you will be contacted and reimbursed.
The company has also extended its cancellation policy through November 1, 2020. This will allow passengers to cancel upcoming reservations for a full refund.