Vancouver itinerary suggestions
Jul 4th, 2011, 07:49 PM
#21
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Well, I give you credit for having "resolve"... (and I mean that sincerely.) Sometimes the best vacation rewards arise from the self-assuredness we feel about wanting to visit certain spots.
Biloxi, MS was a good example of that for me. I'd heard of it many years before I went there, and it probably has limited appeal to a northerner who was (almost) sweltering there at 76 degrees.
My complaints about Biloxi include how difficult it was to find the path to the beach community, across a river of some sort, from the main part of Biloxi (in the dark, at 1:00am!). Also, why couldn't I find a keychain that just said: "Biloxi, MS"... and not "Biloxi Beach"?
I may have searched more thoroughly had I known I'd still be using THAT coveted (Biloxi BEACH) keychain TWELVE YEARS later!
So yes, go to Victoria... and let me say that the group as a whole CAN'T GO WRONG in letting the kids each plan a day in Vancouver (unless the 2nd day is "Groundhog Day", as they say).
A few things:
(a) GrouseMountain.com (ideally straddle sunset... see some daylight views, and see some views after dark) (it costs a FORTUNE to go up there... so IF inclined to dine high on the hog, coordinate advanced dinner reservations which include 'Admission/skyride' charges) The views are incredible! (The huge wooden statue of a HOCKEY PLAYER up there is charming, and perhaps now slightly eerie considering recent events)
(b) It really IS SAFE to be walking around downtown Vancouver until "the dawn's early light" is visible in the surrounding skies (not far from 4:00am in the far north during July). You'll be surprised at just how many 'normal people' are out and about very late. (of course there will be some animated characters - perhaps when the bars close?? - but nearly all are harmless, except to their own kind)
(The intersection of East Hastings and Main streets is generally the least desirable spot around, so lean away from that area while walking at night, and do stick to populated routes if you're out late)
(c) Chinatown can be very interesting on a bustling Saturday/busy afternoon. Who knows what you might find/buy there?
You might do very well for yourselves in letting the kids each plan a day. Central Vancouver is small-ish enough, and still filled with things to do and see. Canada's tame "foreign-ness" could be just right for you all. (the candy counters at stores are intriguing evidence of said 'foreign-ness' in ways where you don't need an interpreter) Psst. "Glossette Raisins" in the purple box.
Don't get me started on Canadian food. Once you've had french fries and gravy... and maple syrup on your pancakes... you've about run the course.
No one knows what it means when a tourist guidebook says:
"Cuisine: Canadian"
Draw your own conclusions from the fact that a popular grocery store there is called "Canadian Tire" (I kid you not!).
With all that said, I love Canada, and especially Vancouver.
Biloxi, MS was a good example of that for me. I'd heard of it many years before I went there, and it probably has limited appeal to a northerner who was (almost) sweltering there at 76 degrees.
My complaints about Biloxi include how difficult it was to find the path to the beach community, across a river of some sort, from the main part of Biloxi (in the dark, at 1:00am!). Also, why couldn't I find a keychain that just said: "Biloxi, MS"... and not "Biloxi Beach"?
I may have searched more thoroughly had I known I'd still be using THAT coveted (Biloxi BEACH) keychain TWELVE YEARS later!
So yes, go to Victoria... and let me say that the group as a whole CAN'T GO WRONG in letting the kids each plan a day in Vancouver (unless the 2nd day is "Groundhog Day", as they say).
A few things:
(a) GrouseMountain.com (ideally straddle sunset... see some daylight views, and see some views after dark) (it costs a FORTUNE to go up there... so IF inclined to dine high on the hog, coordinate advanced dinner reservations which include 'Admission/skyride' charges) The views are incredible! (The huge wooden statue of a HOCKEY PLAYER up there is charming, and perhaps now slightly eerie considering recent events)
(b) It really IS SAFE to be walking around downtown Vancouver until "the dawn's early light" is visible in the surrounding skies (not far from 4:00am in the far north during July). You'll be surprised at just how many 'normal people' are out and about very late. (of course there will be some animated characters - perhaps when the bars close?? - but nearly all are harmless, except to their own kind)
(The intersection of East Hastings and Main streets is generally the least desirable spot around, so lean away from that area while walking at night, and do stick to populated routes if you're out late)
(c) Chinatown can be very interesting on a bustling Saturday/busy afternoon. Who knows what you might find/buy there?
You might do very well for yourselves in letting the kids each plan a day. Central Vancouver is small-ish enough, and still filled with things to do and see. Canada's tame "foreign-ness" could be just right for you all. (the candy counters at stores are intriguing evidence of said 'foreign-ness' in ways where you don't need an interpreter) Psst. "Glossette Raisins" in the purple box.
Don't get me started on Canadian food. Once you've had french fries and gravy... and maple syrup on your pancakes... you've about run the course.
No one knows what it means when a tourist guidebook says:
"Cuisine: Canadian"
Draw your own conclusions from the fact that a popular grocery store there is called "Canadian Tire" (I kid you not!).
With all that said, I love Canada, and especially Vancouver.
Jul 5th, 2011, 08:34 AM
#23
misha2,
I never saw your posts but this is what we're doing.
We're starting in Banff for several days and then flying west.
My first thought was to fly to Vancouver and make our way to and from Victoria. Then it dawned on me that since we're flying back home to South Florida from Vancouver why not fly from calgary to Victoria.
Then we only have to go one way from Victoria to vancouver.
Queen Elizabeth Park and Lynn Canyon suspension bridge were down my list somewhere.
After reading a post from somebody who lives in the area they both moved up considerably.
The plan is to rent bikes for part of a day and ride around Stanley Park.
We leave the day after tomorrow.
I never saw your posts but this is what we're doing.
We're starting in Banff for several days and then flying west.
My first thought was to fly to Vancouver and make our way to and from Victoria. Then it dawned on me that since we're flying back home to South Florida from Vancouver why not fly from calgary to Victoria.
Then we only have to go one way from Victoria to vancouver.
Queen Elizabeth Park and Lynn Canyon suspension bridge were down my list somewhere.
After reading a post from somebody who lives in the area they both moved up considerably.
The plan is to rent bikes for part of a day and ride around Stanley Park.
We leave the day after tomorrow.
Jul 5th, 2011, 08:07 PM
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I've honestly not been to the Lynn Canyon bridge... and my time at the Capilano Bridge was fraught with 'older kids' rocking the proverbial boat, and scaring the life out of me (it was eons ago).
Grouse Mountain is more along the lines of "treating yourself"... whether that be merely forking out the $40-ish cost to go up in the gondola, or applying it to a more expensive dinner.
It is fun to ride up in the gondola, and the views are terrific... it can be downright chilly at the top, so dress accordingly.
Vancouver is gorgeous even from sea level... but to see it from Grouse Mountain is to remind yourself over and over again. (esp. in the pictures you'll take home... and the one with the big hockey player statue obviously most dear to your heart)
And yes, Granville Island... is easily missed... because it is ACROSS a bridge from downtown, and then tucked down underneath on the other side.
It is a wonderful little area... and I wholly endorse visiting there for a couple/few hours.
Vancouver is great for walking... and various little signs and things you see on the street will all seem 'foreign'.
(don't even get me started on the 'flashing green light')
ohhhhhhhhh, I like the idea mentioned above about renting bikes for Stanley Park... it really might be best that way... it's too big for walking to cover it all (thoroughly)... and in a car, you tend to just go too fast.
The city areas on either end (esp. the west end) are quite pleasant upon entry/exit, and everything is mostly flat, so you won't have too much of a challenge.
Lots of fun in store.
Grouse Mountain is more along the lines of "treating yourself"... whether that be merely forking out the $40-ish cost to go up in the gondola, or applying it to a more expensive dinner.
It is fun to ride up in the gondola, and the views are terrific... it can be downright chilly at the top, so dress accordingly.
Vancouver is gorgeous even from sea level... but to see it from Grouse Mountain is to remind yourself over and over again. (esp. in the pictures you'll take home... and the one with the big hockey player statue obviously most dear to your heart)
And yes, Granville Island... is easily missed... because it is ACROSS a bridge from downtown, and then tucked down underneath on the other side.
It is a wonderful little area... and I wholly endorse visiting there for a couple/few hours.
Vancouver is great for walking... and various little signs and things you see on the street will all seem 'foreign'.
(don't even get me started on the 'flashing green light')
ohhhhhhhhh, I like the idea mentioned above about renting bikes for Stanley Park... it really might be best that way... it's too big for walking to cover it all (thoroughly)... and in a car, you tend to just go too fast.
The city areas on either end (esp. the west end) are quite pleasant upon entry/exit, and everything is mostly flat, so you won't have too much of a challenge.
Lots of fun in store.
Jul 6th, 2011, 08:35 PM
#27
Original Poster
Oh my! So much to do and consider. Myer, I wish I had thought of the whole Banff bit and seen your posts before. Deebers, glad to hear about the weather and the Granville reminder.
Love the idea of Stanley Park on bikes.
Wow, I almost dropped Grouse mountain because I thought the suspension bridge would be so much more fun. But with NW Male's and live42day's endorsement, I don't think I can do that.
I just don't know how I can can do all these things that I so want to do. I would be willing to drop Victoria, I assume the hotel will allow a refund but Tofino seems like it would be amazing.
Does this seem doable in three nights -- with time to breathe:
Grouse Mountain on the way in from Tofino. (Need to convince the family that that will beat those suspension bridges -- must mention hockey statue
)
One day walking tours and food cart tour in Vancouver (one of my kids planned this -- we're foodies)
One day Granville Park and Stanley Park on bikes.
Thoughts?
Love the idea of Stanley Park on bikes.
Wow, I almost dropped Grouse mountain because I thought the suspension bridge would be so much more fun. But with NW Male's and live42day's endorsement, I don't think I can do that.
I just don't know how I can can do all these things that I so want to do. I would be willing to drop Victoria, I assume the hotel will allow a refund but Tofino seems like it would be amazing.
Does this seem doable in three nights -- with time to breathe:
Grouse Mountain on the way in from Tofino. (Need to convince the family that that will beat those suspension bridges -- must mention hockey statue
)One day walking tours and food cart tour in Vancouver (one of my kids planned this -- we're foodies)
One day Granville Park and Stanley Park on bikes.
Thoughts?
Jul 6th, 2011, 11:25 PM
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You may want to wait until you get there to decide if you will go up Grouse Mt. If it is raining or foggy, it may not be worth it, where as going for a hike through a temperate rain forest in the rain can quite nice.
Look into taking an Aquabus water ferry to Granville Island; it docks right next to the market. Definitly go to the market at Granville Island if you are into food, it is a foodies paradise. Try to go to Granville first and pick up some picnic supplies for your ride through Stanley Park,...if you can wait that long! Be sure to check out the craft studios and art galleries on Granville too.
I kid you not that Canadian Tire actually sells...tires, as well as sporting goods and housewares among other things, not groceries as a previous poster stated. I love checking out grocery and hardware stores when I travel. It is a great way to get an honest glimpse into the daily life of those who live there.
While Canadian cuisine is not nearly as broad and distinctive as other cultures, there are definitively some regional specialties. We are heading to Vancouver in a couple of weeks and I can't wait to get my hands on some fresh pacific salmon, perhaps something that is maple glazed or smoked. If you are in Quebec, check out the poutine (fries with gravy and cheese curds), tourtiere or sugar pie; and if you want to try something truly different, head to Newfoundland for some cod cheeks and seal flipper pie! I think I will stick to the Naniamo Bars and butter tarts (gooey, not runny with raisins and pecans, the debate rages as to which is best!) As well, Canada grows some great wheat that makes amazing artisanal breads, not to mention the award winning wines and the artisanal cheeses. Oh, and the Glosette Raisins are pretty good too. Mmm, I'm getting hungry!
Look into taking an Aquabus water ferry to Granville Island; it docks right next to the market. Definitly go to the market at Granville Island if you are into food, it is a foodies paradise. Try to go to Granville first and pick up some picnic supplies for your ride through Stanley Park,...if you can wait that long! Be sure to check out the craft studios and art galleries on Granville too.
I kid you not that Canadian Tire actually sells...tires, as well as sporting goods and housewares among other things, not groceries as a previous poster stated. I love checking out grocery and hardware stores when I travel. It is a great way to get an honest glimpse into the daily life of those who live there.
While Canadian cuisine is not nearly as broad and distinctive as other cultures, there are definitively some regional specialties. We are heading to Vancouver in a couple of weeks and I can't wait to get my hands on some fresh pacific salmon, perhaps something that is maple glazed or smoked. If you are in Quebec, check out the poutine (fries with gravy and cheese curds), tourtiere or sugar pie; and if you want to try something truly different, head to Newfoundland for some cod cheeks and seal flipper pie! I think I will stick to the Naniamo Bars and butter tarts (gooey, not runny with raisins and pecans, the debate rages as to which is best!) As well, Canada grows some great wheat that makes amazing artisanal breads, not to mention the award winning wines and the artisanal cheeses. Oh, and the Glosette Raisins are pretty good too. Mmm, I'm getting hungry!
Jul 7th, 2011, 08:49 AM
#30
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You can still do the suspension bridge, I think. Just skip Capilano and go to Lynn Canyon. It's not quite so large, of course, but it's free and very close to Grouse Mountain. You can spend less than an hour, and that may satisfy the family.
http://lynncanyon.ca/
http://lynncanyon.ca/
Jul 7th, 2011, 09:19 AM
#31
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Some comments:
a lot of what you will WANT to do in Vancouver is weather dependent
My weather dependent suggestions:
beautiful sunny weather - do a LOT of outdoor stuff like the Lynn canyon (my personal preference over Grouse Mtn (but that would be OK too), biking in Stanley Park, checking out the various beaches, checking out various gardens
overcast, maybe a bit rainy - you can still do some of the outdoor stuff (assuming walking in the rain doesn't bother you) but I would suggest a combination of indoor/outdoor - like UBC (the Museum of Anthropology, the Botanical Gardens, the Nitobe garden and if it clears maybe a walk down to Wreck Beach.)
Pouring rain - stick to mostly indoors - Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver Art Gallery, Bill Reid Gallery.
a lot of what you will WANT to do in Vancouver is weather dependent
My weather dependent suggestions:
beautiful sunny weather - do a LOT of outdoor stuff like the Lynn canyon (my personal preference over Grouse Mtn (but that would be OK too), biking in Stanley Park, checking out the various beaches, checking out various gardens
overcast, maybe a bit rainy - you can still do some of the outdoor stuff (assuming walking in the rain doesn't bother you) but I would suggest a combination of indoor/outdoor - like UBC (the Museum of Anthropology, the Botanical Gardens, the Nitobe garden and if it clears maybe a walk down to Wreck Beach.)
Pouring rain - stick to mostly indoors - Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver Art Gallery, Bill Reid Gallery.
Jul 7th, 2011, 04:52 PM
#32
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"""I kid you not that Canadian Tire actually sells...tires, as well as sporting goods and housewares among other things, not groceries as a previous poster stated."""
OK, then please suggest why there are scores of references to Canadian Tire selling groceries, including this one, from Canada's National Newspaper:
http://www.financialpost.com/most-po...tml?id=2602820
OK, then please suggest why there are scores of references to Canadian Tire selling groceries, including this one, from Canada's National Newspaper:
http://www.financialpost.com/most-po...tml?id=2602820
Jul 7th, 2011, 05:24 PM
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Misha2:
Considering it all further, given the added impulses (lets call them) in this thread:
(and)Because you are from the southern U.S. having never been to this area before... it sorta seems that the Canadian Rockies would be more alluring than is Victoria/Vanc. Island.
Indeed it is 500 miles from Vancouver to Jasper, Alberta... 180 from Jasper to Banff... and 525 from Banff back to Vancouver.
That is obviously A HAUL, but it seems worthy of some consideration instead of the Vancouver Island leg. The area of the Cdn Rockies is truly beautiful and quite unique to the southern U.S.
Obviously it could be better accommodated with a longer or differently-arranged trip, but if you are intrigued about Banff, you might still contemplate the logistics of it all.
As for Grouse Mountain again... the only barriers are weather and cost. IF given beautiful weather, and IF you can afford to take the family of four up there... then do so. Where else (especially in the southern U.S. ("Gatlinburg"? - LOL)) are you going to get to ride a gondola 2700 feet up the side of a mountain??
Last time I went up, we stood at the bottom unable to see the top due to a pocket of fog, and debated as to whether to even GO.
We went up, and the fog disappeared, and we were treated to a gorgeous view both before and after dark.
Do some sleuthing and figure out what the total cost of a posh dinner for 4 up there would be, and then CONTEMPLATE whether you want to sign-on for that dinner, and not have to pay the $40-ish cost to go up, OR whether you just want to pay for the gondola ride up there and limit your costs.
Considering it all further, given the added impulses (lets call them) in this thread:
(and)Because you are from the southern U.S. having never been to this area before... it sorta seems that the Canadian Rockies would be more alluring than is Victoria/Vanc. Island.
Indeed it is 500 miles from Vancouver to Jasper, Alberta... 180 from Jasper to Banff... and 525 from Banff back to Vancouver.
That is obviously A HAUL, but it seems worthy of some consideration instead of the Vancouver Island leg. The area of the Cdn Rockies is truly beautiful and quite unique to the southern U.S.
Obviously it could be better accommodated with a longer or differently-arranged trip, but if you are intrigued about Banff, you might still contemplate the logistics of it all.
As for Grouse Mountain again... the only barriers are weather and cost. IF given beautiful weather, and IF you can afford to take the family of four up there... then do so. Where else (especially in the southern U.S. ("Gatlinburg"? - LOL)) are you going to get to ride a gondola 2700 feet up the side of a mountain??
Last time I went up, we stood at the bottom unable to see the top due to a pocket of fog, and debated as to whether to even GO.
We went up, and the fog disappeared, and we were treated to a gorgeous view both before and after dark.
Do some sleuthing and figure out what the total cost of a posh dinner for 4 up there would be, and then CONTEMPLATE whether you want to sign-on for that dinner, and not have to pay the $40-ish cost to go up, OR whether you just want to pay for the gondola ride up there and limit your costs.
Jul 7th, 2011, 06:35 PM
#34
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Canadian tire only had two stores that sell food by the accounts of that article. I have never seen one perhaps they are back East. It seems everyone wants to sell everything. Shoppers Drug Mart sells food now....? A drug store
We have a couple of Wal Marts that are full grocery stores on the island.
They want to be your one stop shopping and get all of your wallet.
As for weather, if you are still coming mid July, which is very shortly, the best week of the year (hottest) is usually the week of July 24th or around there. I have only had one cloudy week during that period in the past 20 years I think. End of July should be great.
We have a couple of Wal Marts that are full grocery stores on the island.
They want to be your one stop shopping and get all of your wallet.
As for weather, if you are still coming mid July, which is very shortly, the best week of the year (hottest) is usually the week of July 24th or around there. I have only had one cloudy week during that period in the past 20 years I think. End of July should be great.
Jul 7th, 2011, 06:58 PM
#35
Original Poster
Live 42 day - We'll be there just around that time. So, it should be great! Semiramis - It is great to keep in mind the stormy day options should I (God forbid!) need them
NW Male -- I know that Banff would be great and appreciate the suggestion But, I don't think I have the mental energy to explore anymore
NW Male -- I know that Banff would be great and appreciate the suggestion But, I don't think I have the mental energy to explore anymore
Jul 8th, 2011, 04:33 AM
#36
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misha2 - too right, time to just pack and go! You'll have a splendid time. We keep going back because, each time, we find more things that we wish we had time to do/see. So don't sweat it; no matter what, you'll have to pick and choose. There's always next time.
Last year, we went to Vancouver/Sunshine coast in May/June, then back to Banff/Jasper in October. And we live in Florida. Both areas are so completely unlike where we live and are SO refreshing, in so many ways.
Last year, we went to Vancouver/Sunshine coast in May/June, then back to Banff/Jasper in October. And we live in Florida. Both areas are so completely unlike where we live and are SO refreshing, in so many ways.
Jul 10th, 2011, 02:06 PM
#37
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agree w/ sludick...you will DEFINITELY want to return to this corner of the world; don't stress out about things you may miss this time around-you'll know where to go the next time.
BTW-- Sludick..did you go to St.Louis U?
BTW-- Sludick..did you go to St.Louis U?
Jul 10th, 2011, 02:38 PM
#38
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Hi, donnawho - no, sorry to say, I did not. I was born in Seattle area, grew up in the SF Bay Area, and live in Florida. I do have some friends and coworkers who did, though, and perhaps we have friends in common (my workgroup is in the KCK area, I am remote).
Jul 10th, 2011, 07:27 PM
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I just returned from Vancouver late last night. We did Granville as a last minute add on. We highly recommend the stop. I have not read through all of the other 37 replies but wanted to add this. Have a great time on your trip.
