VANCOUVER – 18 OCTOBER

Trip Start Sep 14, 2010

Trip End Oct 26, 2010

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Flag of Canada Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Monday, October 18, 2010

We had a slightly longer trip getting to Vancouver in the end than anticipated, but we're here now! While we were waiting in Toronto airport, a notice came over the loud-speaker that our flight was over-booked and some passengers needed to be reallocated to a later flight. There was a generous compensation for anyone willing to transfer. As we had nothing to lose, and thought what’s a few more hours, we offered to change flights.

The extra 2hrs passed quickly, and we were soon on board. We arrived in Vancouver at 12.45am, but by the time we got to our hotel and into bed it was closer to 2.30am. A long 26hrs since we arrived at La Fumicino airport in Rome!

However, every bit was worth it as The Sutton Place in Barraud St is a magnificent hotel, and our room is divine

English Beach

. I’m sure our bed is the most comfortable I’ve ever slept in! Pure luxury!

After breakfast and a good sleep we took off to explore the city! We had some very helpful advice from the Information Centre staff at the Vancouver Tourist and Visitor Centre, and caught a hop on –hop off type bus that took us through 2 different routes around the city. What a brilliant way to look around and get the feel of a new place. Towards the end of the second tour we hopped off at English Beach and walked back into town. As it was almost dinner time, we decided to look for the restaurant that the Air NZ attendant had told us about.

We did find it - it’s called Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop Restaurant, and was absolutely brilliant. Exactly what we were looking for, and with loads of character. Like the man himself, who is quite legendary in Vancouver. Originally a fisherman, Joe became interested in life-saving, and during his lifetime, taught over a hundred children to swim. When he died, Vancouver had one of its biggest funerals ever.

Now it’s time for an early night! For once!

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