Memorable Vacation in Vancouver

Towards the end of the summer, Brendan and I travelled to the west coast to spend a week in Vancouver, British Columbia.  We were looking forward to spending time with my sister (and her boyfriend), other relatives while also making sure to see the popular tourist sites and attractions.

We stayed at the Sunset Inn and Suites, which was conveniently located and on a quiet street but was walking distance to Sunset Beach, restaurants, cafes and coffee shops and a short ferry ride to Granville Island.  Although the hotel was dated, the front desk staff were extremely friendly and provided helpful suggestions.

A highlight was renting bikes and taking them to Stanley Park, where we took the nearly 10 kilometre seawall around the edge of the park.  Neither of us had been on bikes in a while, so it took us a little bit of time to become comfortable.  Once we did, it was a very enjoyable adventure.  We stopped numerous times along the way to take photographs and take in the sights and breathtaking views around us.

During our visit, we went to Granville Island a couple of times to wander through the market, shop at the boutiques and watch some of the street performances. We also boarded a harbour cruise, where we saw the cruise ship pier, Canada Place, Stanley Park and other picturesque views with the mountains in the background. One evening we enjoyed a unique outdoor theatre experience.  We saw a wonderfully acted version of King Lear, as part of the annual Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival. The mountain and waterfront made for a spectacular background.  As baseball fans, a trip wouldn’t be complete without catching a game.  On a warm evening at Nat Bailey Stadium the Vancouver Canadians played the Everett Aquasox.

Restaurants that we enjoyed dining at during our stay included Banana Leaf (Malaysian);  The BoatHouse (seafood bar and grill);  Bellagio Cafe (Italian); Stepho’s Greek Taverno; Burrard Bridge Marine Bar & Grill; Cannibal Cafe (burgers).  I also enjoyed several unique beverages at Blenz Coffee.

As a small side trip we rented a car and took the scenic drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, to Whistler, where we spent one night at the Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel. Our main reason to visit was to take the Peak to Peak gondola between the Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. We have been told it is a can’t miss if you are in the area.  Words can not describe the experience.

Before taking this journey, when we arrived at the Roundhouse (the top point for the gondolas) we took a short, but rocky hike to an open air chair lift that takes you to the Summit Peak.  I was terrified, but overcame my fear and it was well worth it.  After another short, but difficult climb  I was on top of the world.

After all of the exercise during the afternoon we had worked up an appetite.  We enjoyed a romantic dinner at one of the fine dining restaurants (Il Caminetto di Umberto).  The location of the hotel was ideal, as it was just outside the main part of the village.  As there was a large mountain bike festival going on (Crankworx), it was appreciated being a little bit away from all of the noise, especially at night.

Vancouver and Whistler are beautiful places, and I hope to return again.

Stay tuned for the next adventure.  Hint, it might be in another western province.