Weekend in Vancouver
We spent the first weekend of October in Vancouver, where we attended a preseason hockey game. If you‘re in Canada, you should definitely go to a hockey game! Preseason games are a great option because tickets are easier to get and more affordable compared to the regular season. Besides the exciting game, the entertainment around it adds to the experience – a DJ plays music during breaks, there are kiss cams, and 50/50 raffle tickets are sold. Even if you don‘t know much about hockey, you‘re guaranteed to have a fun evening!
The next day, we started with a shopping tour along Robson Street and Granville Street. Afterward, we took a water taxi to Granville Island for just $4 to have lunch there. The market halls feature food stalls from various cuisines – everything from soups and tacos to smoothies. It‘s a good idea to come hungry so you can try a variety of dishes. Our highlight was a baked soup topped with puff pastry.
In the evening, we visited the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which is open until 6 PM. We arrived two hours before closing, taking a bus there, as we wanted to see the bridge at dusk adorned with fairy lights – and it was absolutely worth it. Besides the main suspension bridge, there‘s also the Cliffwalk, which features steel walkways along the cliffs, as well as a larger park with wooden pathways allowing you to walk through the rainforest from tree to tree. The entrance fee is about 60 CAD per person, but it was definitely worth the price.
On the third day, we explored the Gastown neighborhood, known for its charming architecture, small boutiques, cafés, and restaurants. A highlight was the famous Gastown Steam Clock. Afterward, we walked toward Chinatown. Be aware that the direct route from Gastown to Chinatown passes through East Hastings Street, which I wouldn‘t recommend due to its high levels of homelessness and poverty. Chinatown itself was fascinating, and we tried specialties like steamed buns and mooncakes. It‘s also a great place to buy spices.
Overall, our trip to Vancouver was incredibly varied and exciting. The city offers an impressive mix of natural experiences, cultural highlights, and culinary delights. Vancouver is definitely worth a visit!
