zuesel

Like Catpiano, I lived and grew up in Alberta. Used to go to Banff sooooooooooo damn much!
Wanted to come to Vancouver more! LOL.

Nothing really good to eat and shop in Banff other than the brunch buffet in the haunted Banff Springs hotel.

If you like to enjoy the scenary, while at the above hotel, talk a trail walk on the right side of hotel. Go to the short cut of water fall on the left side of hotel. That's a short 1/2 day trip.

For Jasper, same, shoping is expensive, not much in town. However, you can take the gondola and there's a long long trail with stairs leading up to the top of mountain. You'll see lots of squarrels and mountain goats like right next to you! This is probably a 1 day trip including driving.

Driving isn't so bad on highways. However, us Van ppl are not used to the snow and road conditions. I'd say be careful and anticipate quite a bit of curvy roads. Don't slam on the break when hit ice patches. You certainly don't need to chain your wheels though.

Too bad you are not going with us which is this weekend. You can stay at one of our 3 houses there for free!

OH Calgary food is not great. I like Alberta steaks though...

zuesel

Those houses belongs to my families. what days are you staying in May ar? How many people? I can ask for you. I am going to ask one of my brothers who lives alone in a nice place if he's willing to rent it out to you guys. OH, he has a cat...if you don't mind...

Ever thought of joining a personal tour guide for those areas? You might come across some good pricing that saves you rental and time, plus loads of interesting stories that makes you appreciate the places much more! I went to one...only coz i accompanied my friend fr. HK. I actually learnt and enjoyed it a lot! The tour guy drove a van for us. He was always on the outlook for animals and would stop for us to take pics. He told us historical stories and animal facts, blah blah....
Check this out. I don't know the price though...http://www.geohistorytours.com/banff-jasper-tour-info.asp

Alamo is based in USA. I guess they've expended into Canada. You really have to call lots of places to get deals. For each company, you have to call both airport # and local store #. sometimes the rates are different for the same comp! But you can request to pick up vehical anywhere! Check also if they have specials for certain creditcard holders. Consider using airmiles too. Also check your entertainment book!