Sep 152015
 

Downtown Vancouver at Night via J5MM.comDowntown Vancouver Skyline via J5MM.com // Monica Bennett Photography in Seattle, WA

I took my time this weekend driving the 140 or so miles to see my parents in Vancouver, BC.  I’ve been driving to see them now, back and forth — from Seattle to Vancouver for well over 20 years and usually I am quite in the hurry to get there worried about border waits and heavy traffic.  It figures, that this time, when I decide to take it easy and come as time takes me that I encounter one of the most pleasant drives I have experienced in a long time.

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Aug 312011
 

The sailing of the route that spans the vast Strait of Georgia docks in Port of Nanaimo in the North End of the Gulf Islands. This location is a short hop to two mountain passes that connect Port Alberni to Tofino and Ucluelet. The fishing grounds of Tofino and Ucluelet are teaming with wild Coho, Halibut and trophy sized Ling Cod. Campbell River is where you can land King Salmon and surf the same day. Strathcona Provincal Park with its rivers and mountains and who can forget the royal ambiance of Victoria.

Horseshoe Bay, Vancouver, British Columbia

Marine Drive winds its way through the coastline and connects West Vancouver to Horseshoe Bay and  has majestic beauty. On any given Sunday, the bicylists make claim to its recreational opportunities which include numerous waterfornt parks and sea-to-sky vistas. When you arrive in Horsehoe bay, you are charmed by its simple architecutre and historic marina where the mountains rise up the sea. Numerous shops and restaurants abound. The photos don’t lie – this is a must on your bucket list.

Marine Drive, Vancouver, British Columbia

Aug 112011
 

When you cross the border from the United States into Canada, everything feels different, instantly.  The people, the culture, the landscapes.  It feels as if you have been transported to a European country.  I hope that if you haven’t had the opportunity to visit this beautiful city, that you will be able to someday.

There is so much to do and see in this amazing city and the way we like to discover our surroundings is to hit the pavement and start exploring, on foot.  We start our exploration by crossing the Lions Gate suspension bridge.  The Lions Gate Bridge connects the North Shore to the downtown area of Vancouver.

Lions Gate Bridge

As we head towards the end of the bridge we have sweeping views of the sea walk at Stanley Park. Stanley Park is Vancouver’s urban Park and is a nature lover’s paradise with miles upon miles of trails, beaches, sea life, playgrounds, etc…

Stanley Park

On our way out of Stanley Park, we arrive in downtown Vancouver and decide to stop at “The Boathouse,” which is a great seafood grill and pub located along the edge of English Bay.  Hubby was hungry so a fish and chips were in order . . .

downtown vancouver

This is an incredible city with so much to explore.  I truly hope that you if you do have the opportunity to visit that you will enjoy yourself as much as we did.