This Capital city of British Columbia Canada is a blend of old world charm and modern experiences, a rare quality that makes it an excellent destination for weekend getaways. And while it's the historic architecture that attracts most visitors to the downtown area (home to 240 historic heritages sites), I would say overall it’s well-suited for those interested in history, architecture, food and marine life. While the Read More
Voted #1 Best City Garden – Vancouver Chinese Garden
Located in Vancouver's Chinatown, minutes from the hustle and bustle of downtown, is an oasis that is the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Chinese Gardens. Local residents are lucky to have such a gem nearby. Classical chinese gardens in history have been a place for reflection and escape from the outside world, and this garden is no exception. Why Visit the Garden? Named after the first President of the China Republic, the garden was built Read More
500 Flavors of Ice Cream, Gelato and Sorbet in Vancouver
My time in Vancouver, BC recently led me to one of my favorite things: a massive ice cream shop! It's called La Casa Gelato and they experiment with flavors like you've never seen. They've been in business here for 32 years. With a whopping 518 flavors of ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt and sorbet, they are serving 218 flavors at any given time. By all means, sample away! (And I did!) Some of the most unusual ice cream Read More
Five Best Things About the Vancouver Aquarium
The Vancouver Aquarium in British Columbia, Canada has many things to offer which are unique to the region. Here are the top five reasons you should visit: Beluga Whales are majestic and other worldly... watching them slowly glide across the water is something fantastic. This Beluga and I had a moment! Typically these mammals live in arctic and subarctic waters, and they are known as "sea canaries" because of their songs Read More
Making A Personal Fragrance is Fun & Affordable
Why not create your own personalized fragrance that is yours and only yours? The fragrance and skin care hot spot in Burbank, California, known as KleanSpa has made it not only fun, but totally affordable. KleanSpa is a product line founded in 2005 by Jennifer Hardaway, one which she describes as a journey of discovery that will dip into exotic oils, butters and fragrances and will delight you and your skin. Their Read More
Best Cherry Blossom Festivals Around the World
Having just returned from Japan, I was pretty excited to show you some amazing cherry blossom festivals around the world. But who says there has to be a festival?! Check out Smithsonian's list of where to see the best cherry blossoms around the world. Vancouver B.C. Cherry Blossom Festival The celebration runs through the month of April and it's hard to go anywhere in the city without seeing some of their 40,000 ornamental Read More
Best Mexican Tacos in Vancouver
To say I love tacos is a huge understatement. I have been on the hunt for the best mexican taco shop I can find in Vancouver, and I think I found it at La Taqueria Pinche Taco Shop. The word is already out, locals and visitors continue to line up for their taco fix. I'll most definitely be back.... soon. Here is what you need to know: 1. Their produce and meats are all fresh and organic. 2. Their taco menu is a mix of Read More
Springtime in Vancouver, Canada
Last week saw the arrival of Spring and today was my first chance to explore in and around Stanley Park. I thought you might enjoy the view too! If you are interested in the birds of British Columbia, there is a BC-based nature photographer named Liron whom you should meet. He takes incredible photos of birds and he offers both guided tours and photography workshops. Sometimes he takes people on a Read More
Immerse yourself in a North American Rain Forest
Located at the Northshore Rainforest in Vancouver is 27 acres of pure nature called the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park; it's a real treat for anyone who loves nature, fresh air and some adventure. It's only a 30-minute drive from Downtown Vancouver (there's a free shuttle too) and I recommend it for solo travelers, couples and families alike. The park has several reasons to visit: The Suspension Bridge is 250 feet above Read More