In all my more than 50 years of traveling all over the world, I have never set foot in Vancouver. There was just no compelling reason for me to do so. But I have heard of so many interesting things to see and do in this city, thanks to Malu Francisco, a former Hyatt colleague who now resides in this city.
This time, the stars have finally aligned themselves, pointing at British Columbia as my next destination, because my eldest son and his family have settled in Dawson Creek early this year and I wanted to celebrate my birthday with his baby daughter, my only granddaughter, who is “my little princess!”
Since there are more choices for accommodations and party venues in Vancouver, I decided to make it my next port of call. Knowing of my decision to mark my diamond birthday in North America, my US and Canada-based siblings decided to join me, turning my birthday celebration into a family reunion.
British Columbia is Canada’s westernmost province, right next to the Pacific Ocean, and is popular for its nature attractions like the Glacier National Park which attracts hikers and bikers, and the major ski resort, Whistler Blackcomb. Vancouver is in the southern part of the province.
While on the limo driving from the airport to the Air BnB we had contracted for our stay, it was a journey through highways flanked by abundantly lush green foliage. The license plate on all vehicles, Beautiful British Columbia, excited me even more because I knew I would be visually feasting on nature’s display…and the company of my siblings and their children would certainly heighten the fun to the nth level.
Of course, to be able to see as much as I could of the city, my family and I decided to go on the Hop On Hop Off Tour Bus which offered 14 stops through the city’s different districts. While on the bus, I learned that the city is named after the British Royal Navy officer, George Vancouver, who explored the northwestern Pacific coast of North America.
The city is also among Canada’s most ethnically diverse cities and is one of the Top 5 Most Expensive Cities in the world and is among the Top 20 Bicycle-Friendly cities in the world. About 50 percent of the city’s population are non-native English speakers, which is understandable because most of them are from Asia.
What I found very interesting was one of the HO-HO stops, Granville Island, because it used to be just a sandbar but the government spent more than Can$10 Million to convert it into the perfect site for the now very famous public market. It’s always packed with locals and tourists any day of the week.
Another interesting trivia I learned on the bus is that the city is dotted with all kinds of Sushi Bars and restaurants. I could see them on all the stops the bus made and on practically both sides of the street. What a treat for all those who opt for a lighter meal. I also found out that Vancouver has a total of eight Michelin-star restaurants which makes it a haven for all the foodies in the area.
Any restaurant with a Michelin star is always a good culinary destination for those who want to enjoy good food. I still can’t understand, though, why a company that manufactures tires for vehicles has been given the privilege to rate a restaurant’s food quality.
Of all the stops our HO-HO bus made, I enjoyed Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal because of its unique and modern design. Being right beside the sea makes the whole place even more appealing as the fresh sea breeze blowing from all directions energizes anyone who’s out to have fun! Inside the terminal are dozens of shops and restaurants to cater to everyone’s preferences. I also like Stanley Park because its wide expanse is covered with colorful blooms and giant trees. Being in a park-like this has a calming effect on anyone.
Of course, Chinatown is everybody’s choice for a superb Chinese meal and there are dozens of good restaurants here where one can choose from. Any tourist itches to go shopping and I’m no exception which is why the Robson Shopping District is another favorite of mine.
I spent more than an hour there before I hopped on the bus for the next stop because my favorite name brands are there, all in a row, to mesmerize anyone with their classy and elegant money-magnet items. I was almost tempted to leave the HO-HO Tour when I got off at the Entertainment District because there were so many interesting theater offerings but my siblings had already planned an activity for the family the rest of the evening.
I know I haven’t seen everything there is to enjoy in this city and in the province, which is why I am looking forward to visit other nearby destinations. But, from what I’ve already seen, I definitely agree that, indeed, I am in Beautiful British Columbia.
YOUR MONDAY CHUCKLE:
Have you heard of this new restaurant named KARMA? There’s no Menu. You get what you deserve.
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