While it might look like we're always on vacation, we haven't had a real vacation from work in over six years! It was high time to fix that! Kind of… We're still filming and capturing our adventures, but that's the easy part. 😊
Vancouver, British Columbia
This adventure starts with an early cross-country international flight from Atlanta to Vancouver, where we will spend a few days exploring and acclimating to our jetlag. Neither of us had been to this area before, so we were excited to see what it had to offer!
Staying at the Westin Bayshore, it was super easy to walk right out of the hotel onto the Sea Bridge, which is really just a fancy name for a walkway along the waterfront.
Gastown Steam Clock
On our first full day in Vancouver, we decided to explore all along the Sea Bridge and walk to the Gastown Steam Clock.
The Gastown Steam Clock is one of Vancouver, British Columbia's most iconic landmarks, located in the historic Gastown district. This unique timepiece, built in 1977 by horologist Raymond Saunders, is powered by steam from the city's underground steam heating system. Sort of… The whistles are gas-powered, but the clock's mechanism is electric.
Every 15 minutes, the clock gives off a delightful whistle, and on the hour, a grand display of steam bursts from its top, captivating both locals and tourists alike. Besides its functional purpose, the Gastown Steam Clock stands as a symbol of the area's rich history and a tribute to Vancouver's industrial past.
Stanley Park
After a quick lunch across the street from the Gastown Stem Clock, we walked along the Sea Bridge all the way to Stanley Park. Stanley Park is a vast urban oasis spanning over 1,000 acres. Adjacent to downtown Vancouver, it features the iconic Seawall, the Vancouver Aquarium, and the Lost Lagoon. With trails, beaches, and indigenous art, this park seamlessly blends nature with city life, symbolizing Vancouver's dedication to environmental preservation.
Upon entering the park, we saw a horse-drawn carriage tour and decided that would be a great way to see the park! A professional guide fully narrates the tour, which highlights Deadman's Island, Vancouver's Harbour, Lions Gate Bridge, and a Coastal Red Cedar Forest, and includes stops at the Totem Poles, the Girl in a Wet Suit Statue.
We really enjoyed being able to see the park and hear the history this way.
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
On day two in Vancouver, we decided to head north, across the Lions Gate Bridge, to see the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in Vancouver, British Columbia, is a mesmerizing blend of engineering and nature. The bridge itself spans 450 feet (137 meters) across the Capilano River, suspended 230 feet (70 meters) above the ground. Visitors are treated to stunning views of the lush rainforest and serene river below. While this bridge is super strong and sturdy, it does move quite a bit, with a bunch of people crossing in both directions at the same time! 😳
Apart from the iconic bridge, the park offers treetop adventures and the Cliffwalk, a walkway clinging to granite cliffs. There are also a few places in the park to get snacks or a full meal. This destination captures the essence of Canada's Pacific Northwest beauty, and we really had a great time!
All Aboard!
The next morning, we watched our ship, The Crown Princess, arrive at the port and make our way down to the ship for boarding. We're on our way to Alaska for eleven days, along with some friends you've seen before!
Links 🔗
- The Westin Bayshore: www.marriott.com…
- Gastown Steam Clock: britishcolumbia.com…
- Stanley Park: vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park.aspx…
- Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Tours: www.stanleypark.com…
- Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: www.capbridge.com…
