Vancouver, I think I love ya. Have you visited anywhere in Canada? This is the fifth place I've traveled to, after Banff National Park, Calgary, Montreal and Toronto, and I honestly can't get enough. I used to think I had to go across the world to feel something fresh (and don't get me wrong- I still love a big international trip), but Canada has so much to offer with a quick flight from the States. I love hearing all the different languages spoken (many Vancouver residents speak a first language other than English), their public transit makes it a breeze to get around, and their stunning nature is some of the best in the world.
Grouse Mountain Forest Bathing
MUST-DOs:
Grouse Mountain: It's about 20 minutes from downtown Vancouver-- you can ride a chairlift and gondola through the clouds, and if you go, I'd highly recommend this. Check out videos on my Vancouver Instagram story highlights. It was such a whimsical experience! Hiking Grouse Mountain was highly recommended, but it’s SUCH a challenging terrain on top of the tree roots, so I opted for the gondola. At least check out the trail though— forest bathing is good for the soul!
Walking (er, floating) around Capilano Suspension Bridge
Capilano Suspension Bridge was PACKED.
Capilano Suspension Bridge: it was a pleasant surprise that Capilano Suspension Bridge Park was only 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver. The bridge itself was way more packed with people than I expected, but wandering around the park and finding this skybridge walk turned out to be my favorite part about that area. GO EARLY.
Vancouver views from the Stanley Park Seawall
Lush rainforest inside Stanley Park
Stanley Park Seawall. Biking with this view reminded me of San Francisco
Stanley Park Seawall: Biking around the Seawall is SO enjoyable! The views give off San Francisco vibes, and it’s a lush rainforest inside!
If you like fresh vegetarian food, try Kokomo.
Walk around neighborhoods- my favorite was Main Street in Mt. Pleasant. People also love Kitsilano. So much cute graffiti, and stylish restaurants and shops and cafes. It's a great walkable city.
Granville Island
How cute is this rainbow-colored Aquabus?
Come hungry to Granville Market. There’s so much food to sample!
Take the Aquabus to Granville Island. Friendly rainbow colored little ferries take you to this food market where you can try tons of food. Go hungry!
I hope you love Vancouver as much as me, and if you have any questions, just ask me on Instagram!