Why is the sky blue? Who built the pyramids? Why do hotdogs come in packs of 10 and hotdog buns in packs of 8? And just why are Canadians so dang nice? Well I have gained first hand experience with the warmth and hospitality of our Northern neighbors when the mother of all tragedies happened! More on that later. Just recently I have returned from the beautiful city of Vancouver, British Columbia. This picturesque city situated in the southeastern region of B.C is surrounded by a network of inlets and can be crossed by ferries offering a spectacular view of the Pacific Northwest. This coast line, referred to as the “Sunshine Coast” has a calm atmosphere but has plenty to offer in terms of art, culture and outdoor activities. So needless to say this area was a must see! The name “Canada” (which is Inuit for “village”) conjures up images of igloos, moose and other kitschy stereotypes to outsiders. Canada has long existed but not on the radar of most American’s. Quite honestly most Americans don’t seem to know or care about this vast and wonderful country. The landscape of Canada is so diverse and huge, that to explore all of it would take a lifetime. You’ve got the golden wheat fields of Alberta and the emerald-green lush climate of the west coast. And if you’re really brave you could travel further north to the white-out conditions of the Canadian arctic. So if its diversity you’re seeking Canada is your destination. My time in Vancouver was great and one I will never forget. When I travel art and culture is usually my theme, so B.C .was the place for me! Downtown Vancouver is sleek–very modern and the city itself is young. Later on I decided to venture off the beaten path a bit and visit Victoria Island. The lovely town of Victoria offers that old rustic look into B.C. past. The old golden-domed city hall and cobblestone streets was a welcomed departure to the congestion of downtown Vancouver. However when staying in Vancouver I recommend staying in the downtown area for convenience sakes. Doing this puts you in the middle of everything and you can access any taxi, train, ferry or bus you need. I accessed the ferry to Victoria, by hopping on the “skytrain” and catching another bus to Tsawassen Ferry Terminal. They run every hour from 7am to 8pm. The scenic ferry ride will only run you $13.00 each way and takes about an 1 hour and 30 minutes! If you don’t like the idea of capsizing on a boat then I would recommend hopping on the #17 bus from downtown to UBC and checking out some fascinating art of the First Nations, the indigenous people of Canada. The University of British Columbia Museum of Anthropology (MOA) houses an extensive selection of Haida and other Pacific tribal art and crafts. They have about a dozen towering totem poles and a wooden house used for ceremonies located behind the museum. I have to say this was my favorite part of the trip. The First Nations artwork and craftmanship is so detailed and unique. I recommend checking this place out because it will give you a different perspective on the history of Vancouver. I even liked the names of the surrounding towns like Coquitlam, Tsawassen, Squamish and Nanaimo all reflecting their native roots. Okay so remember the mother of all tragedies I mentioned earlier? Well I unfortunately lost my wallet at the museum during the last two days of my trip. I was so distraught over the whole thing that I felt like crap not to mention broke! But the sincere kindness and help of one of the security guards (let’s just call him ‘G’) and barista Irena brought my Canada bashing days to an end. They were so sweet and I soon realized that Canadians not only really care about each other but they look out for us tourists as well. Not to say it wasn’t great making fun of the way Canadians talk and use those odd little packets of vinegar on their food (yes vinegar). Oh shoot wait! Sorry! Ok so no more Canada bashing. Oh I mean it this time and if anyone has anything bad to say about Canada they’ll have to answer to me dammit! I also need to mention the kindness and prompt attention by the staff at the Hotel Listel. They even sent a card apologizing for the mishap, a voucher for a free breakfast and a cash advance offer. Now that’s what I call being “nice”! Not to mention making a poor lowly tourist’s last days as comfortable as possible. I do believe Canadians have a grasp on being so nice in part because they feel its their duty. They are like the Switzerland of North America; neutral but a force to be reckoned with. They don’t bully their way around. They have a quiet strength about themselves. They don’t compare themselves with Americans and why the heck should they. They are proud of their country. They’re Canadian in their own right and with their own identity. Hmmm kind of makes me want to sing, O Canada…wait how does it start again? Stupid Americans. 😉
*For more info on the The Listel Hotel contact 604-684-8461. They are located downtown at 1300 Robson Street Vancouver, B.C.
** For all Vancouver ferry routes, destinations, itineraries and schedules visit www.bcferries.com
***University of British Columbia Museum of Anthropology is open daily 10am-5pm and is $14 for adults and free for kids 6 and under. Visit www.moa.ubc.ca for more info. Pictures are allowed!
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