I'm a 48 year old woman who will be spending a few days in Vancouver by myself. How can I best enjoy the sights and attractions, and enjoy good, fun restaurants without feeling conspicous. I would appreciate any suggestions. Also, I would like to visit Victoria and wonder whether it is best to stay overnight, or can I make it back to Vancouver the same day. (I'm assuming the transit strike will still be on) Thank you.

We are of an age and I travel frequently to Van on business. My suggestion would be to stay at a large hotel chain, the Westin is very good, and take one or two guided bus tours of Van and environs. Go walking in Van, around Stanley Park, its very safe in the day light and even at night. As far as restaurant dining is concerned, Van is a big sophisticated city and your singleness will no be a problem for anybody else if it isn't for you...but if you want company you might try a University affiliated group UBC and Simon Fraser both have alumnae associations that are affilated with other universities and sometimes will set up stuff in advance for visitors.Victoria is an overnight destination, strike or no strike, its a charming town and worth the trip. If you are at all into gardening, you might want to take a side trip to Butchart Gardens while you are on the island.

I'd suggest taking a look at this website: <BR> <BR>www.vancouver.hm <BR> <BR>It's one of the most informative websites out there on the city. It was created by a local man named Paul who I believe is in his early 50's. He's very helpful and I'm sure would be able to point you in the right direction if you ask him. <BR> <BR>The 2 "must sees" I always mention to people is Stanley Park and Granville Island. Stanley Park is Vancouver's pride - it's the largest North American city park. Rent a bike or walk around the seawall - very scenic! <BR> <BR>Granville Island is located under the Granville Street bridge and has a huge public market, art galleries, unique shops and street entertainment. I always like the atmosphere of Granville Island in the morning as everything's freshly baked, and all the locals are coming in for their groceries. <BR> <BR>Anyhow, I'm sure you'll find a lot more information on that website I gave you, but feel free to e-mail me if you have any questions.

Since I will be in vancouver with a friend of mine 6/16, arriving in the afternoon I was thinking of taking the Vancouver Trolley Sunset Tour to Granville & the next day using the trolley for the 16 on/off stops around the town. We leave for a cruiese on the 18th so we don't have much time. What do you guys think? Thanks so much!

Ailsa, <BR>You can do Victoria in a day. The ferries back to the mainland usually run until 9:00 pm (but I would go earlier to be safe). If you're not driving, you can take the Pacific Coachlines bus from Vancouver across on the ferry to downtown Victoria. It's $28 Can. one way. I'm not sure what the return fare is.

I wrote this on another post, but I'll write it here too: <BR> <BR>I discovered a really good travelogue a few minutes ago - it's about a couple's few days in Seattle, Victoria and Vancouver. I'm sure it might give you an idea of the cities Hope this helps! <BR> <BR>http://www.wallace.net/travel/Canada/