There's plenty to do, see, and eat in the city of Vancouver, BC. In fact, it's
one of my favorite "undiscovered cities" -- the atmosphere itself is fun, to
me!
- Place to Stay: Best Western Chateau Granville
Nice, cozy, downtown... and cheap as all get-out! Can you believe it? We
sure couldn't. still can't figure out why this is one of the cheapest hotels
around, yet the staff are high-class, it's very clean, and centrally located.
Do be aware that there's a block radius of "adult stores" around the hotel, but
that's the only reason I can figure for the great deal...
- Place to Eat: The Salmon House on the Hill
OK, technically in the city of West Vancouver, which is actually north of the
city (go figure). This restaurant, with native decor and specializing in
grilled fish, is situated up on a hill with views of downtown. So they say.
It was beautifully snowing when I was there. Food and service are awesome,
prices aren't too expensive.
- Place to Eat: Milestone's
In praise of a great chain... this Canadian chain is fantastic. Their food
leans toward California cuisine... you'd think we'd want to get away from
that, but this is barely trendy, unpretentious California cuisine. A lot
cheaper, too. Our favorites included the cajun popcorn shrimp with chipotle
ketchup, maple-grilled salmon, sausage ravioli with pesto, and their fantastic
homemade caramel sauce (yum!!!). We frequented the one in Yaletown...
- Place for Ice Cream: Cow's
Cow's is a Canadian institution, started up in PEI sometime ago. They have a
location on Robson Street, at the west end of that shopping district. The ice
cream, while not a large flavor selection, was YUMMY, creamy, milky. I chose
their most exotic flavor... Gooey Mooey, which was english toffee ice cream
with caramel cups and chocolate flakes. YUMMM!!!!
- Things to Do: Granville Island
This large marketplace attracts many tourists, yet manages not to be touristy,
somehow. Fresh produce abounds (heyyyy... it's from CA at cheaper prices...
no fair!), lots of specialty food shops, and many, many craft kiosks -- you can
talk to the craftspeople themselves! Great place to while away many hours.
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