After visiting the state of Washington we thought it was a good idea to visit Canada since we were already so close. We bought an Amtrack (train) ticket from Seattle to Vancouver. We made arrangements to fly back from Canada to San Antonio. The train ride was great! They offer WiFi and a cafeteria, in case you get hungry. It was a 4-hour trip.
STAY
We stayed at the Opus Hotel which is located in Yaletown. It was a great location since a subway station was across the street (which takes you to the airport), a tour bus stop was a block away, and there are a lot of really great bars and restaurants as well. I do recommend staying here. Also, there is free WiFi throughout Yaletown.
THINGS TO DO
Visit a Museum
Although our intention the first day was to hop on the tour bus, we never saw the bus stops because the signs were pretty small. So we walked throughout the city looking for the bus stop with no luck. We opted to go to the Museum to warm up and stay dry since it was constantly raining. We went to the Vancouver Art Gallery then we had dinner and went to bed.
Hop-on Hop-off Bus
The next day we woke up early to seize the day. We finally found the bus stop. It took us through the whole city, we passed by Canda Place, Chinatown, Granville Island, Stanley Park, Library Square, Gastown, English Bay Beach, among other landmarks. Since it was rainy I couldn't take good pictures while on the bus. We got down at the Granville stop, Chinatown and then walked to Gastown. Everything is relatively close, just make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring an umbrella. I bought the bus tickets in advance and they were cheaper. Here is the link.
My favorite places were Gastown, Granville and the Chinese Gardens in Chinatown.
Capilano Suspension Bridges
On our third day in Vancouver, we schedule to visit the Capilano Suspension Bridges. This is a place you MUST visit! Located on a rain forest the main bridge is suspended over the Capilano River and it is 460 ft long and 230 ft above the river. It sounds a bit scary but once you are there it feels pretty safe. There are always friendly guides waiting to give you a tour. Take it, it is worth it and it's free (just leave a tip). I think this activity was my favorite while in Vancouver. Make sure to look for the shuttle schedule. They have FREE shuttles from Vancouver to the Capilano Bridges, I believe every 30 minutes.
Vancouver was a great friendly city. I wish it wasn't so cold and rainy. I really wanted to visit Stanley Park and English Bay Beach. I guess I will have to come back during the summer.
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