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English Bay, Vancouver. Photo credit: Russell VJ Ward |
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Granville Street Bridge. Photo Credit: Russell VJ Ward |
For me, the gem in Vancouver’s crown is the wonderful outdoor vibe it gives off – that ability to bring the wilderness in to your front yard, to deliver the mountains and ocean to your door step. Grouse Mountain, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Stanley Park. No other Canadian city can provide such outdoors delights within easy reach of regular city folk. No other Canadian city – in fact, no other city in the world – can provide the kind of magnificent setting that Vancouver offers each and every day.
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Vancouver’s North Shore. Photo credit: Russell VJ Ward |
Often rainy, but on those rare moments when the cloud cover lifts and the sun starts to shine, Vancouverites become the most fortunate people on earth – three spectacular snow-capped coastal mountains framing the backdrop, soldier pines and giant Douglas firs crowding their slopes, the harbour water lapping at their feet. It doesn’t usually matter which street you find yourself on in downtown Van – turn your head in a northerly direction and prepare to be astounded by the presenting view.
When I’m in Vancouver, I feel a peace and connectedness. I’d even go so far as to say I feel like I’m home.
This is a beautiful post, Russell. I had a very similar emotional experience returning to LA last month, after having been away for twelve years (funny enough, our previous stop on that same trip was Vancouver). It felt like coming home; like nothing (much) had changed. The connection was still there. Enjoy that feeling, amazing Vancouver and the rest of your tour!
Thanks, Katia. Will do – the tour is an amazing experience and continues to deliver. Next stop: Toronto 🙂