Traveling by bus is a unique way to see the world, offering a front-row seat to landscapes you might otherwise miss. While the views out the window are usually what people remember most, it’s the hospitality and care along the way that turn a good travel experience into a truly great one.
We are incredibly proud to announce the winners of our 2026 Busbud Traveller’s Best Awards. While we typically use these awards to honor top-tier Bus Companies, this year we’re doing something different: we’re launching our first-ever Individual Awards to celebrate the heroes whose dedication sets the gold standard for Canadian travel.
From the cross-border routes of the Pacific Northwest to the mountain passes of the Rockies, these two individuals have redefined what it means to “go the extra mile”.
The Guardian of the I-5: Samuel Liebermann
2026 Driver of the Year | Quick Shuttle by Traxx
On the Seattle–Vancouver route, Samuel Liebermann consistently shows up for passengers when it matters most. Here are a few moments that capture how Samuel shows up for passengers:
- The Midnight Rescue: When a passenger faced a booking crisis late on a weekend, Samuel stepped in to ensure they weren’t stranded overnight in Bellingham.
- Beating the Clock: After a flight cancellation in Vancouver, Samuel managed the logistics to get his passengers to the Seattle Airport earlier than scheduled, turning a stressful situation into a victory.
- A Gentle Touch: He is frequently praised for his patience with families, recently helping parents with an 8-month-old baby feel completely at ease throughout the border crossing.
It’s one thing to have a flawless safety record, but Samuel’s constant stream of 5-star reviews comes down to how he treats people. Whether he’s helping parents navigate the border with an 8-month-old or just being a steady presence behind the wheel, he has a way of making a long haul feel easy. As one of his passengers put it, the service was already good, but Samuel is the reason it became great.
The Calm in the Storm: Tess Cooper
2026 Customer Service Person of the Year | Banff Explorer
In the world of travel logistics, stress is often the default. But for those traveling from Calgary Airport to Banff, Tess Cooper is the antidote. Tess has traded “policy scripts” for “problem-solving,” taking full ownership of every hurdle.
- Turning Panic to Relief: When a delayed flight caused a traveler to miss their late-night shuttle, Tess didn’t just cite the missed departure policy. She coordinated with local operators to secure a same-day alternative, staying in contact until the traveler was safely on board.
- The Team Architect: Tess looks at the big picture. After noticing a trend in passenger confusion regarding airport pickups, she proactively overhauled internal messaging to ensure future travelers had clearer guidance.
Tess represents the ultimate gold standard in empathy and accountability, ensuring every guest feels supported and excited to explore the Canadian Rockies.
Why These Awards Matter
The Busbud Traveller’s Best Awards were created to highlight the dedication found within the Canadian transportation industry. Whether it’s a seamless border crossing or a rebooked shuttle to the mountains, Samuel and Tess remind us that the heart of travel is human connection.
Congratulations to our 2026 winners! Your commitment makes the travel industry, and Canada, better for everyone.
[faqly_accordion id=”113″]
