Dominic Morched (Canada)

New 2009 Adventures...

2009-01-26T22:30:00.002+11:00

A new year and a new blog site for you all...
Here i will add travels and adventures that takes me through 2009.

Enjoy my new site & visit as often as you like:

San Francisco, CA. USA

2008-10-06T21:40:00.000+11:00

San Francisco USA - INCOMPLETE. Be back again shortly whilst i post more details and photos.

My last stop before heading home to Sydney. I took a couple days break to ensure i do not get jetlagged and wander the streets of San Francisco!

The City and County of San Francisco is the fourth most populous city in California and the 13th most populous city in the United States, with an estimated population of 799,183. It is the second most densely populated city in the country, and lies within a metropolitan area of 4.2 million people. As the financial, cultural, and transportation center of the larger San Francisco Bay Area, it anchors a region of more than 7 million. The city is located at the tip of the San Francisco Peninsula, with the Pacific Ocean to the west, San Francisco Bay to the east, and the Golden Gate to the north.

In 1776, the Spanish settled the tip of the peninsula, establishing a fort at the Golden Gate and a mission named for Francis of Assisi. The California Gold Rush in 1848 propelled the city into a period of rapid growth, transforming it into the largest city on the West Coast at the time. After being devastated by the 1906 earthquake and fire, San Francisco was quickly rebuilt, hosting the Panama-Pacific International Exposition nine years later. During World War II, San Francisco was the send-off point for many soldiers to the Pacific Theater. After the war, the confluence of returning servicemen, massive immigration, liberalizing attitudes, and other factors gave rise to the Summer of Love and the gay rights movement, cementing San Francisco as a liberal bastion in the United States.

San Francisco is a popular international tourist destination famous for its landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, the cable cars, Coit Tower, and Chinatown, its steep rolling hills, and its eclectic mix of Victorian and modern architecture. The city is also known for its diverse, cosmopolitan population, including large and long-established Asian American and LGBT communities.

Last Day in Vancouver

2008-10-04T15:10:00.000+10:00

Vancouver B.C - my last day before i return home. Will i be back here again? I don't know, i know i will be planning to return but i don't think i'll stay away from home too long.

TO BE COMPLETED - Be back soon with more details and photos for this post.

Toronto, Ontario Canada

2008-10-01T20:39:00.000+10:00

Toronto - is the largest city in Canada and the provincial capital of Ontario. It is located on the north-western shore of Lake Ontario. With over 2.5 million residents, it is the fifth most populous municipality in North America. Toronto is at the heart of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and is part of a densely populated region in south-central Ontario known as the Golden Horseshoe which is home to 8.1 million residents. Toronto is also one of the world's most diverse cities by percentage of non-native-born residents, as about 49% of the population were born outside of Canada. Because of the city's low crime rates, clean environment, high standard of living, and friendlier attitudes to diversity, Toronto is consistently rated as one of the world's most livable cities by the Economist Intelligence Unit and the Mercer Quality of Living Survey.

From the capital Ottawa i caught the greyhound Bus to Union Station, located on Front Street between Bay and University. The station is right on Toronto's subway line, and is within walking distance of Rogers Centre (formerly Skydome), the CN Tower, the financial district and many downtown hotels, shops and restaurants. Toronto is served by the VIA Rail System, the network that provides all rail service throughout Canada (with connections to the Amtrak system through Niagara Falls, New York). Unfortunately i had no time to make it to Niagara falls this time.

These photos were taken on board the greyhound from Ottawa! The colours of fall (autumn) and the busiest highway (the King's Highway 401), is one of the widest and busiest highways in the world.

Toronto's Financial District and the climb up the CN Tower. As Canada's economic capital, Toronto is considered a global city and is one of the top financial cities in the world. The Toronto Stock Exchange, the world's seventh largest, is headquartered in the city, along with a majority of Canada's corporations. The CN Tower is a communications and observation tower standing 1,815 ft. 5 inches (553.34 m) tall. In 1995, the CN Tower was declared one of the modern Seven Wonders of the World by the American Society of Civil Engineers. It also belongs to the World Federation of Great Towers.

This concludes my East Canadian journey where i return back to Vancouver, B.C and start to head home to Sydney, Australia.

Canada's Capital - Ottawa

2008-10-01T16:37:00.000+10:00

Ottawa, the capital of Canada - the country's fourth largest municipality, Ottawa is also the second largest city in the province of Ontario. It is located in the Ottawa Valley in the eastern portion of the province of Ontario. Ottawa lies on the banks of the Ottawa River, a major waterway that forms the boundary between Ontario and Quebec. On December 31 1857, Queen Victoria was asked to choose a common capital for the then province of Canada (modern Quebec and Ontario) and chose Ottawa. There are old folk tales about how she made the choice - that she did so by sticking her hatpin on a map roughly halfway between Toronto and Montreal, or that she liked watercolours she had seen of the area. While such stories have no historical basis they do illustrate how arbitrary the choice of Ottawa seemed to Canadians at the time. In fact the Queen's advisers had her pick Ottawa for many important reasons:

First, it was the only settlement of any significant size located right on the border of Canada East and Canada West (Quebec/Ontario border today), making it a compromise between the two colonies - their French and English populations. Second, the War of 1812 had shown how vulnerable major Canadian cities were to American attack since they were all located very close to the border while Ottawa was (then) surrounded by a dense forest far from the border. Third, the government owned a large parcel of land on a spectacular spot overlooking the Ottawa River.

Two other considerations were that Ottawa was at a point nearly exactly midway between Toronto and Quebec City (500 km/310 mi) and that the small size of the town made it less likely that politically motivated mobs could go on a rampage and destroy government buildings, as had been the case in the previous Canadian capitals.

However on this day I caught the Greyhound bus from Montreal and arrived in the evening. I spent the night in gaol (jail), well actually the International Hostel in Ottawa is what used to be an old gaol, conveniently located in the heart of town and short stroll to many nearby sights and attractions. I didn’t have to commit a crime to do time!

Ottawa is situated on the south bank of the Ottawa River and contains the mouths of the Rideau River and Rideau Canal. The oldest part of the city (including what remains of Bytown) is known as Lower Town and occupies an area between the canal and the rivers. Across the canal to the west lies Centretown (often just called "downtown"), which is the city's financial and commercial hub. Situated between Centretown and the Ottawa River, the slight elevation of Parliament Hill is home to many of the capital's landmark government buildings, including the Peace Tower and the Legislative seat of Canada. The original Centre Block of the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa was destroyed by fire on February 3, 1916. The House of Commons and Senate were temporarily relocated to the recently constructed Victoria Memorial Museum, currently the Canadian Museum of Nature, located about 1 km south of Parliament Hill. A new Centre Block was completed in 1922, the centrepiece of which is a dominant Gothic revival styled structure known as the Peace Tower which has become a common emblem of the city. Here are some night shots of Parliament Hill, the Peace Tower and views from above.

The Ottawa River and the Rideau Canal network meant that Ottawa could be supplied by water from Kingston and Montreal without going along the potentially treacherous US-Canada border. As of June 29, 2007, the Rideau Canal, which stretches 202 km (126 mi) to Kingston, Fort Henry and four Martello towers in the Kingston area was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

East Canada trip

2008-10-01T16:05:00.000+10:00

The Eastern Provinces - offering endless scenery, attractions, history and culture, from the French-influenced Quebec and Montreal to the cosmopolitan cities of Ottowa and Toronto. The East also offers a coastline dotted with colourful villages, rich in history and beauty.

Halifax, Nova Scotia (25th-26th September) - Steeped in history and culture life here revolves around the sea. From bustling city streets to leisurely strolls along the magnificent Halifax harbour, there are so many things to do. Halifax is where the maiden voyage of Titanic really ended, with the most lasting legacy from the sinking located here. Upon arrival at the airport i got a rental car to explore this Atlantic side of Canada. Nova Scotia is truly worlds-away from anything ever experienced. Renowned for the highest tides in the world at the Bay of Fundy, award-winning vineyards scattered about the province, nationally recognized chefs at the helm of Nova Scotia restaurants and over 700 festivals annually. Nova Scotia is a place of remarkable natural beauty and thriving culture. Starting at Peggy’s Cove fishing village, where the lighthouse is probably the most photographed in the world, i explored the coast line and history where lobster fishing is a very important part of this village. The world's largest lobster ever caught was from around here. In the heart of Nova Scotia's Bluenose Coast lies Lunenburg. Lunenburg is a Canadian port town, steeped in the traditions of the past yet so very vibrant and alive. It is easily accessible from hwy #103 and not far from Peggy's Cove. The Town was formally established in 1753 as the first British Colonial settlement in Nova Scotia outside of Halifax. Lunenburg's rich German heritage has also made it a popular destination for European visitors. From there it was back to Halifax to explore one of Canada’s Seven Wonders - Pier 21. Other urban attractions explored was the Halifax Citadel and the Public Gardens. Also did a historic Alexander Keith's brewery tour, which happened to be his birthday weekend. Here are some photo's.

Quebec City (27th-28th September) - Quebec City is one of the oldest European settlements in North America. Throughout its four hundred years of existence, Quebec City has served as a capital. From 1608 to 1627 and 1632 to 1763 it was capital of French Canada and all of New France, from 1763 to 1791 it was the capital of the Province of Quebec, from 1791 to 1841 it was the capital of Lower Canada, from 1852 to 1856 and from 1859 to 1866 it was capital of the Province of Canada and from 1867 to today it has been capital of Quebec. It is the second largest city in the province, after Montreal. The ramparts surrounding Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec) are the only remaining fortified city walls in the Americas north of Mexico and were declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985 as the "Historic District of Old Quebec". It is also one of the oldest cities in North America (founded in 1608). Quebec City is internationally known for its Summer Festival, Winter Carnival and the Château Frontenac, a historic hotel which dominates the city skyline. The National Assembly of Quebec (provincial parliament), the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (National Museum of Fine Arts) and the Musée de la civilisation (Museum of Civilization) are found within or near Vieux-Québec. Among the tourist attractions near the city are Montmorency Falls (see below) and the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré in the town of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré.

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Montréal, QC (29th-30th September) - Montreal is a city of contrasts, thanks to its colourful background. Founded by the French, conquered by the British and then occupied by the Americans, Montreal is steeped in history and cultural significance. It has retained its strong French influence and is said to be Canada's most romantic city. Full of music, cafes, restaurants, art galleries and museums, Montreal also has a significant port and financial centre. Mount Royal is Montreal's outstanding urban park, features include the Chalet and the Kondiaronk Belvedere overlooking downtown Montreal (the most famous view of the city) and man-made Beaver Lake (Lac aux Castors) with its recently renovated pavilion. Mount Royal is topped by an illuminated cross that has become a Montreal landmark. Downtown Montreal lies at the foot of Mount Royal, most of which is a major urban park and extends toward the St Lawrence River. Old Montreal (or Vieux-Montréal in French) is the oldest area in the city of Montreal, Quebec, dating back to New France and is located southeast of downtown containing many different attractions such as the Old Port of Montreal, Place Jacques-Cartier, Montreal City Hall, the Bonsecours Market, Place d'Armes, Pointe-à-Callière Museum, the Notre-Dame de Montréal Basilica, and the Montreal Science Centre. Extending all over downtown is Montreal's Underground City (French: La ville souterraine), a set of pedestrian levels built to cross under streets thereby connecting buildings to each other. In winter, some 500,000 people use the underground city every day. Because of its Underground City, Montreal is often referred to as "Two Cities in One". There is archaeological evidence of various nomadic native peoples occupying the island of Montreal for at least 2,000 years before the arrival of Europeans.

More to come. Ottawa (Canada's Capital and Parliment) and Toronto....

Tofino wilderness camping adventure.

2008-09-16T18:36:00.000+10:00

Tofino - Pacific Rim, Vancouver Island - Tofino, the surf capital of Canada, is a tranquil community located on the tip of Esowista Peninsula near the entrance to Clayoquot Sound on the west coast of Vancouver Island. It is as far west as you can drive by car or bus and is still the only paved road to the open Pacific Ocean in Canada. Tofino is a rapidly growing tourist centre for Long Beach and other Pacific Rim destinations. Once a timber and fishing town, Tofino has become a favoured destination for travellers from around the world. Tofino was named in 1792 after the Spanish Hydrographer Vicente Tofino de San Miguel (1732 - 1795) who was Rear Admiral of the Spanish Naval Academy in Cadiz.

Got up early and caught the BC Ferry from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver to Naniamo. Naniamo is located on Vancouver Island. It is about 55 km west of Vancouver, separated by the Strait of Georgia. It is also the second largest city on Vancouver Island and the gateway to many other destinations both on the island — Tofino, Comox Valley, Campbell River, Port Alberni, Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park — and off its coast — Newcastle Island, Protection Island, Gabriola Island, Valdes Island, and many other of the Gulf Islands. Nanaimo has often been referred to as the "Bathtub Racing Capital of the World" and "Harbour City". Nanaimo is also sometimes referred to as the "Hub City" because of its central location on Vancouver Island and due to the layout of the downtown streets which form a "hub" pattern.

Toured the harbour city. Did some shopping and took a little ferry off to Protection Island. Protection Island is a small island located 1.5km north-east of downtown Nanaimo. There are no paved roads on the little island. Some residents move about the island in golf carts, others with cars but most walk. Locals frequently transport their groceries from the community dock with their own wheelbarrows. Access to the island can be via private vessel or the small privately run ferry. Some residents also commute by kayak or rowboat as well.

The Dinghy Dock Pub was built in 1989 and has always been family owned and operated. Most of what you see around the pub has been donated by visitors from all over the world. It started as this tiny place with very little parking for any type of vessel. People would pull up and tie up their dinghy’s to use the pub (which they still do today). 3 major expansions later- enclosing the family area, kitchen expansions, outdoor decks and major upgrades on the outdoor docks is what you see today. The pub is a registered vessel which was no easy task and was the first time in Canadian history that a pub was registered as a boat. The pub can also be untied and floated if need be. It was originally anchored to the sea floor and now is secured by pilings for improved safety. The Protection Island Ferry Service was started in 1987. In the early days the waiting room was a working ferry boat. The original boats had no hinged hatches at the doorway and everyone had to duck getting out or hit their heads! There was no heat on the ferries back then either so visibility through fogged windows presented another challenge for the skippers.

From here i headed back into downtown Naniamo for the 4 and a half hour coach ride west to Tofino, stopping briefly at Port Alberni on the way. Once in Tofino i asked a local to recommend an unreal camp spot. I was directed to nearby Tonquin Beach where the water was calm and the tide being right out. The camp fire was lit and the tent set with nothing but mother nature's beauty. The sunset was gorgeous and the full moon that evening was exceptional since the autumnal Equinox on the 22nd heralds the season. At night i saw half a dozen Sea Otters metres from the shore. The following morning i strolled along the proper surf beaches from Tonquin to Middle Beach and onto Chesterman Beach. The sandy beaches reminded me a lot of home. Not as good as the fantastic Aussie surf! If i had time i would've loved to go and see nearby Schooner Cove and Long Beach however I toured the little town, did some shopping and a little adventure excursion whale watching in a fast zodiac.

Ocean Outfitters operates whale watching, marine and wildlife tours from Tofino on the west coast of Vancouver Island. The tours venture into this designated U.N. biosphere in Clayoquot Sound. They have whalewatching, bearwatching, birdwatching, Hotsprings Cove, Cougar Annie's Garden or the Meares Island Big Tree Trail. Whales can be seen all year round in Tofino. Migrating Humpbacks join resident Grays from March to September and roaming Orcas year round. Between March and May up to 25,000 Gray whales travel through Clayoquot Sound on their migration from Baja in Mexico to Alaska taking advantage of the ample food sources in the pristine waters around Tofino. On this day we saw a couple Gray Whale sightings and a Humpback. Also had exciting opportunities to see seals, sea lions, sea otters, black bears, bald eagles and many species of birds up close.

The trip was completed with a return coach through the awesome countryside back to Naniamo for a BC Ferry back to Vancouver again.

As my time here in Canada draws to an end my adventures are going to wrap up with an absolutely fantastic trip lined up to east Canada. Starting with a flight to Halifax then ending up in Toronto for the return flight back home to Sydney via San Francisco. Not exactly an end to my adventures as who knows where i may end up next...

Come back again soon for more of my stories and adventures. . .

Vancouver - Alaska Hubbard Glacier Cruise

2008-09-08T16:02:00.000+10:00

7 night Alaska Hubbard Glacier Cruise aboard Celebrity Mercury

Alaska's inherited population is as colourful as her indigenous population. Discovered by the Danish navigator Vitus Bering, who was sponsored by the Czar of Russia, Alaska became a settlement for Russian traders and hunters. This natural wealth did not go unnoticed by other European nations. The Spanish made claim to the entire coast of Alaska but did not establish any settlements. Britain sent Captain Cook to explore the area and later a member of his staff, George Vancouver, charted the Inside Passage. France sent an expedition in 1786 led by Jean de la Perouse. Only the Russians prospered in the area until the fur trade dwindled in the late 1860's and a cash starved treasury led them to sell the area to the US in 1867 for $7.2 million. In the late 1880's gold was discovered near Juneau attracting miners to the area. But it was in 1896, when gold was discovered in Canada, that thousands of sourdoughs arrived in Alaska. Many of these rugged individualists stayed on establishing communities and businesses. Alaska matured rapidly with the construction of the Alaska-Canada highway and the infusion of millions of dollars by the military during W.W.II. In 1959, Alaska became the 49th state of the United States of America. Alaska comprises 591,004 square miles of some of the most diverse and theatrically spectacular landscapes in the world. Nature has painted this landscape with broad strokes, majestic mountains, awe inspiring fjords, massive glaciers, dense forests and open tundra. Alaska has 17 of the 20 highest peaks in North America with Denali (Mt. McKinley) towering at 20,306 feet. Over 100,000 glaciers cover 28,000 square miles of territory.

Enjoy the following as i take you through each day of this wonderful experience cruising to Alaska and beautiful British Columbia waters.

Day 1 - Vancouver, Canada. 31st August 2008

Docked at Ballantyne Pier boarded the Celebrity Mercury. I had a brilliant room, big with great views from inside facing forward. Celebrity Mercury stretches 866 feet and weighs approximately 77,713 tons. The massive vessel, constructed in Germany, was the third of the three newly constructed ships in the Celebrity Cruises fleet in the mid-90s. At 5pm we set sail on our way to Ketchikan, the first port-of-call, through the Inside Passage. Distance to Ketchikan is 579 nautical miles. Celebrity Cruises offers two Broadway scale productions per night. In the intimate lounges and night clubs guests can find a parade of talented comics, song stylists and musicians.

Day 2 - Inside Passage, Canada. 1st September 2008
Second day and cruising Inside Passage. I saw a grey whale and a few bald eagles. I did an interesting Navigational Bridge tour to see how the operations from inside the vessel operates. Later that evening the Master in command of the vessel Captain Kostas Patsoulas (tell me he's not Greek) makes a speech and announcement followed by a talented dancing performance on stage at the Celebrity Theatre. The Captain/Master is responsible for the ship's operation and well-being of all on board. A Captain usually serves many years aboard a vessel in several positions and completes a great amount of education before he is able to server as Master.

Day 3 - Ketchikan, USA. 2nd September 2008

Ketchikan is a popular tourist destination. It is known as 'The Gateway to Alaska' because it is the first stop for cruise ships heading north along the famed Inside Passage. Ketchikan translated from the Tlingit Indian name means Thundering Wings of an Eagle. The Tlingit people originally settled this area as a summer fishing camp where five different species of salmon spawned every year. Arrived in Ketchikan very early that morning at 6am. Ketchikan, squeezed between mountain and sea, is known as the salmon capital and is near the southernmost tip of Alaska's panhandle. Ketchikan is a small town, its long main street skirts a waterfront built on pilings over the sea. Short side streets and steep wooden stairways lead to residential areas on the bluff above. A few blocks from Ketchikan's downtown cruise ship dock is Creek Street, famous (or infamous) as a former red-light district whose houses, some restored, following a curving plank road built over Ketchikan Creek. Saw a lot of Salmon heading up stream to spawn as they do each fall. This was amazing to see. There are approximately 16 to 18 hours of daylight during the summer months. The entertainment that night was the magic and comedy of Bob Brizendine.

Day 4 - Hubbard Glacier, USA. 3rd September 2008
Stretching over 90 miles long and covering over 1,350 square miles in area, Hubbard Glacier is the largest tidewater glacier in North America. It is also one of the most impressive, a 300-foot wall of ice rising sheer and jagged from the ocean. You may hear the rumble and see the monumental splash as the glacier severs into great ice chunks, known as 'calves'. Hubbard Glacier, one of Alaska's largest and most unpredictable glaciers. Millions of tons of ice, gravel and broken rock slide down the mountain carving a path to the sea. Some are as large as 3-story building. We got there later than scheduled due to an emergency that occurred earlier that morning. The cruise ship had to head out from the scheduled course which was very choppy and uncomfortable. This made our stay in Hubbard Glacier not as long as proposed since the cruise had to stay on the set itinerary for our next stop. Spotted numerous sea animals. Mostly seals that were lying on the ice glaciers. A chunk from the glacier was winched up to the pool area for a cool close up. Later that evening showtime at the theatre, 'A touch of Broadway' starring the celebrity singers and dancers.

Day 5 - Juneau, USA. 4th September 2008
Nestled deep within the Northern reaches of the Inside Passage is Alaska's first truly American city. Founded 13 years after the purchase of Alaska, it was Juneau and more importantly its gold, that captured the imagination of the American public. Juneau is Alaska's state capital. Summers are mostly cool and wet, with temperatures ranging from 60's to 70's farenheit. Juneau has an average rainfall of approximately 74 inches. It is approximately 3,108 square miles in area. We arrived there early, weather was overcast and light rain but the Helicopter and Glacier Trek excursion was absolutely amazing! Great souvenir shopping and bars!! Back in town i tried to hike up Mount Roberts. Got 1/3 of the way and had to turn back as it was very boggy but mainly because i ran out of time. I would love to go back there again!

Day 6 - Sitka, USA. 5th September 2008
The beautiful town of Sitka is located on Baranof Island and is situated on the outer coast of Alaska's Inside Passage. The name Sitka comes from a Tlingit word that means 'people on the outside shee'. The Kiksadi Clan of the Tlingit Indians lived in and around Sitka for centuries before the Russians or Americans ever set foot on the island's rocky shores. They named the seaward side of the island Shee as they called theor settlement Shee Atika which is where the name Sitka is derived. The cruise arrived at historic Sitka early morning. A huge day! To get off for the day we had to be tendered into shore. The Russians first arrived in this area back in 1741, by the year 1867 the Russian government sold Alaska for $7,200,000. Here is an abundant of wildlife from sea otters, seals, whales, salmon, eagles, bears and more. Strolled to the salmon hatchery, saw totem poles, salmon spawning and wildlife not to forget the hike through the forest. I visited the Alaskan Raptor rehabilitation center where there were many birds that had been injured and taken into care. Later on visited the historic Russian town where i entered St Michaels Orthodox church, which was burnt in 1966 then rebuilt, and learnt more on the history of this town. Went shopping, fur trade is still huge here. Saw some historic places, monuments and enjoyed the stay in this interesting town. During the month of July there is up to 18.5 hours of daylight in Sitka. During the winter months there are only 6.5 hours of daylight. The evening was formal dinner followed by 'Dance around the World' at the celebrity theatre featuring an amazing jaw dropping performance by Duo Velikovi.

Day 7 - Inside Passage, Canada. 6th September 2008

Last day spent cruising down Inside Passage. Celebrity Mercury stretches 866 feet and weighs approx 77,713 tons. Speed 21.5 knots. Had brunch in Manhattan Restaurant with ice sculptured displays. Later that day tried some water painting skills. Sailing down into Canadian waters again spotted Orca's (killer whales) and Porpoises all afternoon, mainly around the most northern tip of Vancouver Island. Sea traffic was visibily heavy with several other cruise ships heading down or on their way up to Alaska. Great entertainment all throughout the ship from band orchestra, dance music, guitarist vocalist, pianist vocalist, strings quartet and more. Comedy at the celebrity theatre with Jamaica's comedienne Matilda with Patrick Murray. Also the great performance by Duo Velikovi were back again for more exciting entertainment. I tried my luck at the casino, bought duty free items, went to the Navigator night club for some cocktails and dance party!!!

Day 8 - Vancouver, Canada. 7th September 2008
Disembark in Port Vancouver. Final day of the cruise. Got up early to watch the sun rise and the arrival back into sunny Vancouver (7am). I had a great time on this cruise, never a dull moment with so much to see and do. Wish it stayed longer at the ports to do more activities and adventures. Took photos of the gorgeous sunrise, Downtown Vancouver, Lions Gate Bridge (first narrows), Iron Workers Bridge (second narrows) and Mount Baker (Washington USA) towering in the background. Saw a resident seal in the water approaching the Port. Can't wait for my next adventure...

More details on this entire cruise can be seen by clicking on this link:

http://www.cleancruising.com.au/slideshowcc/slide_itinerary_map.asp?cruise_id=CELMER116

7 nights Alaska Hubbard Glacier Cruise

2008-08-31T17:38:00.000+10:00

Alaska Hubbard Glacier Cruise aboard Celebrity Mercury...

Day 1 Vancouver Port of call Embark 5.00pm

Day 2 Inside Passage, Canada Cruising

Day 3 Ketchikan, USA 7.00am to 3.00pm

Day 4 Hubbard Glacier, USA pm cruising

Day 5 Juneau, USA 8.00am to 6.00pm

Day 6 Sitka, USA 8.00am to 2.00pm

Day 7 Inside Passage, Canada Cruising

Day 8 Vancouver, Canada 7.00am Disembark

Here's the promo to tease you:

Around Vancouver in Summer....

2008-08-28T14:29:00.000+10:00

Summer still in the air around Vacouver - Annacis Island is an island located in Delta, British Columbia. Named in 1827 for Hudsons Bay Company Clerk François Noel Annance, the island is now mostly industrial. The island contains one of the Greater Vancouver Regional District's waste water treatment plants. The island is accessible by bicycle from either sidewalk of the Alex Fraser bridge to the South. From the North there is a zig-zag sidewalk access to the Hwy 91 bridge - at the West end of Queensborough. The Highway 91 travels through the island and connects it to Lulu Island to the north and North Delta to the south. The island is the northern landing of the Alex Fraser Bridge, part of Highway 91. At the eastern end of the island is the Derwent Way Bridge which also connects the island to Queensborough.

River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond is the largest casino in the province of British Columbia. The casino is owned by Great Canadian Gaming. In addition to its 222 rooms, lodging space is available at the 144-berth marina. The casino was built on the site of the former Bridgepoint Market in Richmond. It first opened to the public on 25 June 2004. Several variances were needed from the City of Richmond to allow it to open with service that customers expect. This included a modification of its liquor license and operating license to allow liquor to be consumed in the casino's theatre.

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With views of the mountains and water at every turn downtown Vancouver is one of the most picturesque urban centres in the world. The mountain and waterfront views take precedence over glass and steel here. Many people that tour or work in the downtown core of Vancouver like to stop and rest in the city parks that are surrounded by these buildings that tower above them. Sunny skies over Vancouver makes it the ideal place to relax amongst the skyscraper buildings.

The Vancouver Art Gallery, founded in 1931 and the former provincial courthouse, occupies an entire city block in the heart of downtown Vancouver bounded by Georgia Street, Hornby Street, Robson Street and Howe Street. Here also is the location of the clock counting down the opening of the 2010 Winter Olympics games.

A well-known landmark in the heart of downtown Vancouver, Pacific Centre is the city's premier office, retail, and hotel complex. There are six office towers in the centre providing over 1.5 million square feet of prime office space including the TD Tower, Canaccord Tower, and towers at 701 W. Georgia Street, 777 Dunsmuir Street, 700 W. Pender Street, and 750 W. Pender Street. The towers are connected to the impressive Pacific Centre retail mall which features 100 shops and services including Canada's leading department stores, Sears and Holt Renfrew, attracting almost 250,000 visitors weekly. Pacific Centre is also connected to The Four Seasons Hotel, a 385 luxury room hotel, restaurant, and meeting facility.

At the very heart is Vancouver's landmark, The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is the largest luxury hotel company in North America. Like the city that surrounds it, it is rich in history, resplendent in natural beauty, vibrant and cosmopolitan. Within its walls an exclusive Fairmont Gold floor, a state-of-the-art health club, award-winning restaurants and an array of designer shops in downtown Vancouver.

Other notable buildings within the city include the clock tower of the Vancouver Block on Granville Street, an early example of Edwardian commercial buildings that typified the building boom at the turn of the last century. Also the Sears department store opposite and the six-storey Hudson Bay department store building across the road with its cream terra cotta building and Corinthian columns built in 1927.

Vancouver has a large film and television production industry, lending it the nickname "Hollywood North." It often serves as a substitute location for other cities and locales. Many times i've come across filming being made such as below. Vancouver also has a lot of entertainment with live bands performing at most pubs across Vancouver. A local down the road called Darby's usually plays diverse music ranging from classical and modern through a wide range of pop, rock, jazz, world and country.

Yuk Yuk's Comedy Club - Canada's National Stand-up Comedy Chain. Based in Vancouver's Century Plaza Hotel. The host for this segment that night was Patrick Maliha. A very pleasant and funny evening with several other stand up comedians entertaining the audience with their punch lines and humorous jokes.

Coming up real soon - Alaskan Cruise. . . .

Gastown Motorbike Show

2008-08-18T16:58:00.001+10:00

Gastown Show 'N Shine - The Gastown community and the B.C Coalition of Motorcyclists had a show and shine day where riders took the chance to display their bikes in Vancouver's historic Gastown. The day was filled with Show n' shine, manufacture displays, live music, awards and Motorcross team freestyle performance. Here are some snaps taken:

Here's a description of some motorcycle classes:

Antique: Motorcycles from 1936 - 1947.

Chopper: A cruiser-style bike that has a lot of the pieces of the bike 'chopped' off. The riders of the '60's did everything they could to customise their bikes and make them go faster. Thus much of the existing bikes they bought were chopped off. The bikes in the movie 'Easy Rider' are examples.

Cruiser: The modern version of the Chopper with small gas tank. Large rear tyre, feet forward seating and stylish appearance.

Custom: For many motorcyclists the choices provided by the motorcycle manufacturers do not provide enough variety to match the personalities of the riders. For this reason, many customise their bikes or hire customizers to do the work for them. Custom can easily cost twice the selling price of the original bike.

Radical: 'One of a Kind'. Radical by design, frame, engine or front end construction. 'Hand Built' predominantly custom or one off parts as opposed to 'off the shelf parts'. Manufactured and driveline components would be acceptable.

Rat Bike: A cosmetically challenged bike that usually unkempt and is loaded with all sorts of luggage, tools, etc. Defined as anything Mad Max would shoot at.

Scooter: In its purest definition, could be considered a small motorcycle with step-through or feet forward design. For bikers, a scooter just means any motorcycle sometimes called a Scoot.

Sidecar: A sidecar is attached to a motorcycle to create a 3-wheeled combination. The sidecar is also known as a hack, outfit, rig or chair. A sidecar/motorcycle combination is neither a motorcycle nor a car in handling characteristics. Special driving techniques must be mastered before one can safely operate a sidecar.

Sport Bike: Very fast, colourfully decorated, high performance motorcycle. Sport bikes are flashy, fast and lightweight.

Touring Bike: A type of motorcycle designed for long distance riding, typically a heavier bike with hard luggage and comfortable seating arrangements.

Trike: A 3-wheeled vehicle created by stripping off the rear wheel of a bike and replacing it with two automotive wheels attached to a special differential. The rear section is then covered with fibreglass and painted to match the bike. A Trike is still classified as a motorcycle.

Vintage: Motorcycles from 1903 - 1935.

Bike Ride & Ferry to Sunshine Coast

2008-08-07T15:45:00.000+10:00

Kitsilano to Langdale Sunshine Coast - Today i took a long bike ride adventure to the Sunshine coast. This consisted of riding over 40 kilometres through Downtown, Stanley Park, over Lions Gate Bridge, West Vancouver and onto Horseshoe Bay where i caught a ferry to Langdale on the Sunshine Coast to Gibsons. Starting from home in Kitsilano i rode through part of Stanley Park's 8.8 km seawall. This is one of the most scenic and popular walking/biking/blading route. Stanley Park is recognized around the globe as one of the great parks of the world and one of the city's main tourist attractions is an evergreen oasis of 400 hectares (1,000 acres) close to the downtown core. Its natural west coast atmosphere offers a back drop of majestic cedar, hemlock and fir trees abound in wildlife. See some of the photos taken on the ride along the seawall with art, bike trails and the Siwash Rock along the western side of the Seawall.

Passing through Stanley Park i approached Lions Gate bridge, the 1,829m (6,000ft) suspension span linking Vancouver with the North Shore. The elegant Lions Gate Bridge became an instant icon when it opened in 1938. Built within one year it was intended to spur development of the view-blessed West Vancouver slopes for owners of the British Properties. Businessman A.J.T Taylor championed the project and secured funding for it from the Guinness family of Britain. In order to allow the era's tallest ships to pass underneath its clearance is 61 metres (200ft) at high tide.

Once over to West Vancouver on the North Shore, one of the most spectacular places was Ambleside Beach and its views of the city, Stanley Park, and Lion's Gate Bridge. The large welcome totem pole can be seen from far. West Vancouver is home to some very large and expensive properties and houses in Canada. Riding my bike west along Marine Drive i saw multi-million dollar homes with the best views of Vancouver and across the inlet, often forgetting about the long winding road ahead and capturing the lovely scenery.

Finally arrived at Horseshoe Bay terminal which is located on Howe Sound, 25 km northwest of downtown Vancouver. Horseshoe Bay is a quaint and picturesque seaside village on the North Shore of Vancouver. It is also the starting point of the intensely scenic Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99), which winds through the Coast Mountains up past Whistler, Pemberton and Lillooet. Journeys began and ended in Horseshoe Bay long before the arrival of the first Europeans. For Native people Horseshoe Bay was a traditional meeting place used both as a seasonal fishing encampment and a place to spend a night when travelling between villages on the Squamish River and Burrard Inlet. The sheltered bay was called ch'xay or Chai-hai, after the swishing sound made by schools of little fish stirring up the waters of Horseshoe Bay. The Sunshine Coast is accessible from the Lower mainland only by boat or plane. Travellers board the BC Ferry at Horseshoe Bay for the short relaxing ride to Langdale on the Sechelt Peninsula.

The Sunshine Coast truly lives up to its name with a total average of between 1,400 and 2,400 hours of sunshine per annum. That's an average of 4 to 6 hours per day. Langdale Ferry Terminal is a tiny village on the north side of Howe Sound. Langdale was named after Robinson Henry Langdale, a Yorkshireman who came here to homestead in 1892. Today Langdale is the BC Ferry terminal linking Highway 99 at Horseshoe Bay (Vancouver) to Highway 101, the main route connecting communities on the Sechelt and Malaspina Peninsulas of the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia. From here it was on my bike to explore this amazing place with large log houses and awesome views.

The scenic seaside village of Gibsons is located on the north shore of Howe Sound, 5 km south of the ferry terminal at Langdale. Gibsons is connected to Vancouver by vehicle ferry from the Horseshoe Bay BC Ferry terminal on Vancouver's North Shore to the Langdale ferry terminal on the Sunshine Coast. Floatplanes also link Vancouver and Gibsons harbours. Gibsons Marina was only a short ride south of the Langdale Ferry Terminal. The unique scenic seaside village acts as the gateway to the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia with the harbour being everything it should be, chock full of boats, barges, fishing boats, tugs and float planes. And how can i not resist a relaxing swim on this very warm day. Gibson's Landing was established in 1886 when George Gibson's boat blew off course with him and his two sons landing here by accident. From 1971 to 1990 Gibsons was the setting for the internationally popular CBC television program The Beachcombers, and has not been slow to cash in on its fame. Molly's Reach, once a TV soundstage is now a real cafe. I had fresh fish and chips with a nice pint of Ale. See photos below:

In this unique setting on Howe Sound, surrounded by Mount Elphinstone to the north, Howe Sound to the east, and the Strait of Georgia on the southwest, i experienced the best of the Sunshine Coast lifestyle. Never have i seen such a lovely sunset. The ferry back was delayed by an hour so i went for another swim nearby watching the sky's lovely display of colours and rays. The ferry line up for the cars was very long and i couldn't believe how they managed to fit every vehicle lined up inside. Quite an enjoyable day overall and once back at Horseshoe bay i placed the bike on the Bus Rack for a short ride home with that great accomplished feeling.

Camping Chilliwack Lake

2008-08-05T12:27:00.000+10:00

BC Long Weekend Camping - In 1858, Sir James Douglas made British Columbia a Crown colony, and 150 years later it's party time! Well camping for me...

Located approximately 150km east of Vancouver in the upper Chilliwack River Valley, Chilliwack Lake is characterized by a valley-bottom lake, old-growth forested slopes and spectacular sub-alpine & alpine ridges. The sparkling Chilliwack Lake is ideal for motor-boating, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, fishing and camping of course. Forty kilometers of trails provide opportunities for hiking, bird and wildlife viewing and spectacular nature appreciation.

In these pictures displays an unnamed peak, crystal clear waters with the Ecological Reserve and ranges nestled in the majestic Mountains very close to the Washington USA border.

Besides its main attraction Chilliwack Lake also encompasses several pristine lakes and rugged mountain peaks. Here are Mt Lindeman, Mt Webb and MacDonald Peak which display a perfect backdrop for our camp site looking west.

Situated on a bluff at the narrow lake's south end, Damon and i camped within the old Forestry wilderness back-country. The drive down the logging road was long and tough but we managed to get there with excite. The half hour hike along a closed deserted road gave us the best uninterrupted camp site and views to admire. I love camping in British Columbia. Especially when it's the long weekend and the weather is so warm. Here are some more pictures to tease you:

The lake is fed by snowmelt as the summer season truly kicks in. Douglas Fir trees cover ever mountain range with a few glacier capped mountains still visible with snow in the long summer day.

Going home was hard despite the lovely day and scenery along the way. On the highway Mt Baker is clearly seen reaching out from across the Washington border until finally crossing the Fraser river, Port Manns bridge, back home to Vancouver.

The Chilliwack Lake area was first explored by European people in 1855 when the Hudson’s Bay Company upgraded an already existing Indian trail, joining nine Indian villages between Vedder Crossing and Chilliwack Lake. In the early 1900s, logging of the area began and by the 1920s developed into a substantial railroad logging operation. But in 1938 a rail accident created a massive fire, forcing the Hudson’s Bay Company to abandon the railway and change its operations to truck logging. In 1942 an army base was established in Chilliwack and a visiting British company of military engineers built Sappers Park at the south end of Chilliwack Lake.

Here is a short video of the fun camping trip and gorgeous views. Enjoy:

Deep Cove Yacht Club - Housemates Engagement Party

2008-08-03T15:43:00.000+10:00

Deep Cove Yacht Club - Collin & Tiffany's Engagement Party. Officially the couple are now engaged. To celebrate the engagement family and friends were all invited to Deep Cove Yacht Club. Home of mountains, forests and ocean - close to the city of Vancouver and a million miles away, Deep Cove is located in North Vancouver and based at the bottom of the Indian Arm. The Deep Cove Yacht Club registered as a society in 1936 and took over the running of the summer regattas in 1938. During WWII the club doubled as a school and home to the Ladies Air Raid Patrol and the Red Cross Auxiliary. In 1984 a new clubhouse was built.
Here are some photos from the engagement party:

Collin and Tiffany's family:

The friends:

The catering:

Vancouver Celebration of Light - USA

2008-07-26T17:51:00.000+10:00

Vancouver Celebration of Light - USA. It was Team USA’s turn to light up English Bay Saturday and they didn’t disappoint with a very American display at the HSBC Celebration of Light. Bombs were definitely bursting in the air as Team USA dazzled thousands with their shock-and-awe fireworks display over English Bay. Favourites like U2’s “It’s a Beautiful Day” served as the backdrop for an explosive second night of the HSBC Celebration of Light and despite the USA’s unsuspecting “Love Will Change the World” theme the team delivered a constant stream of hefty explosions that seemed to engulf the entire bay. Blast after blast, with the usual subtle moments mixed in for good measure, seemed larger than life! At least compared to Team Canada’s artsy take on the Godzilla films. Count on the Americans to turn love into a more imposing spectacle than humanity’s fight against a giant monster. Here are some photos taken on this night:

As with all the shows it is music that directs the theme, tenor and the purpose for design. Music (pyrotechnic effects) is carefully auditioned for this theme and artistic meaning as the fusion of music and fire takes the audience to a higher level in senses of joy and for the delicate balance between music and fire. The USA theme 'love will change the world' is presented in three acts.

Act One: Change is coming. Act Two: Beauty is found in love and peace. Act Three: Our dreams will keep us forever young. Here's a little video clip to enjoy:

Vancouver Celebration of Light

2008-07-24T15:23:00.000+10:00

2008 Celebration of Light - Since 1990 Vancouver has been home to the Celebration of Light (originally known as the Symphony of Fire). This international pyro-musical fireworks competition has attracted the world's leading fireworks designers and is seen as a highly prestigious event. The fireworks festival creates an exciting arena where spectators can enjoy each country’s representatives unveil their latest techniques and use the most innovative fireworks materials as they compete to be crowned the winner.
Wednesday, July 23 —Canada presented by London Drugs

Saturday, July 26 — USA presented by Starlight Casino

Wednesday, July 30 — China presented by Concord Pacific

Saturday, August 2 — Grand Finale presented by BC150

Music simulcast begins at 10pm on radio station Rock 101 (101.1 FM) and runs for approximately 25 minutes from a barge at English Bay. The estimated annual attendance is around 1.4 million people. I found a spot on the beach between Vanier Park and Kitsilano Beach and sat close to the water for the prime view across English Bay and the lovely sunset until the fireworks show begins.

Tonight's theme 'Attack' is a story of humanity's struggle against Godzilla, paying tribute to the 1950's classic Japanese film. Panic has swept the city after recent events in the bay. Several ships have been sunk and buildings along the coast have been destroyed. Scientists have ruled out previous theories of underwater volcanic activity. New reports of a strange creature rising from the water moments prior to the attacks are emerging, but have yet to be confirmed…”

Spawned in the ocean’s depths, it stalks the earth…

Let us take you on a voyage of fear and discovery as the world declares war on the ocean’s secret. Face a terror nothing could prepare us for. Mourn lost souls and rally spirits when it seems all hope is lost. The future of humanity hangs by a thread. Will mankind’s ingenuity triumph? Witness what may be the end. Let fire in the sky capture your imagination as we tell you the story of humanity’s greatest hour. Here are some photos from the fireworks show.

Joffre Lakes, Pemberton BC

2008-07-19T17:58:00.000+10:00

Joffre Lakes Moraine - Tucked beyond the Coast Mountains north of Whistler lies the rustic village of Pemberton. Just a short drive past Pemberton is the start of the hiking trails to Joffre Lakes Moraine. This is approximately a five hour hike consisting of navigating over rock slides, logs laid over rushing rapids and three different glacial lakes all of different colours until we reached the top of Mattier Glacier.

Three most amazing colourful glacier fed lakes are along this trail. Each one a bigger treat than the other with an opportunity to get really close to a glacier at the end of the third lake. This is one of the three different glacial lakes, all of different colours. This is beautiful Middle Lake.

There is no other hike that gives such a variety of terrain including small river bridges, water falls, bolder fields, a beautiful valley and gorgeous alpine. The lakes were absolutely spectacular. Bright blue glacier water. The colours and landscape is amazing. Absorbing the absolutely wonderful scenery is breath-taking. The total hike is 12 km round trip to the third lake.

Took a break by the third lake. Some people were setting up camp here to stay overnight. There is a helicopter pad nearby as well. Looking around and admiring the scenery i saw some brave hikers taking on the glacier peak above by foot. They are all tied up together but still think that is crazy. Waterfalls form from the melting snow and glaciers that run into the lake. The lake is surrounded by glaciers. Quite stunning.

From the third lake there is a path to the top of the summit and up the Moraine (a mass of earth and rock debris carried by an advancing glacier and left at its front and side edges as it retreats) that leads to Mattier Glacier. This trail is not for the faint of heart however the views from high above the valley are amazing. If only pictures can express the scenery. I saw a marmot cooling off in the snow. Marmots are generally large ground squirrels or known as groundhogs. The scenery is simply breath-taking.

Here is a short video taken from the third lake. Enjoy:

Summer in Vancouver

2008-07-17T15:40:00.000+10:00

Bike Riding - Nothing beats cycling as a way of getting in shape and discovering the beautiful landscapes of BC. There are many reasons for mounting that smooth saddle, taking those bright silver handlebars and setting off down the road on a bicycle - not only for fitness reasons but for pure enjoyment. By riding my bike i can feel as if i am 'getting away from it all'. Vancouver has some of the best natural haunts that will take your breath away offering some of the best views imaginable whilst exploring the spectacular local neighbourhood on wheels! I started off by cycling west towards UBC and found a few dirt trails in the University Endowment Lands.

After the exhilarating and adrenaline pumping obstacles i headed to the waters edge in the westernmost end of Spanish Banks and rode the main path alongside Locarno Beach to absorb the cool sea breeze. There are a few biking trails in this area. Some of them easy track riding and some proved challenging. The views north to the mountains across English Bay and Burrard Inlet is absolutely amazing and soothing. On this day the scene was lovely and the waters calm with hardly any waves at all.

Jericho Beach. The Jericho Beach trail is flat and winding, skirting the south margin of English Bay. It is a 10-km (6 miles one-way) out-and-back trail that follows a combination of good gravel and pavement. It's a perfect ride for scenic, seaside trails. Views to the north include English Bay with many ships anchored offshore. On this particular hot summer day the beaches were crowded and noisy. Locals descend on the beaches like the herons to low tide. The ride can be an obstacle course of joggers, cyclists, and dog walkers. The wind off the water helps to keep the ride a bit cooler in the hot sun.

Locarno Beach is one of the beaches that line English Bay in Vancouver. It is situated in the West Point Grey neighbourhood between Jericho Beach and the Spanish Banks beaches. It was named after the Swiss city where a peace treaty was signed in 1925. Although Locarno Beach is designated as one of Vancouver's "quiet beaches" the park area nearby is popular with families having picnics and barbecues in the summertime. It is also located near Vancouver's largest Youth Hostel.

Spanish Banks. Named by the earliest European Spanish explorers in the 1770s. Spanish Bank (often called "Spanish Banks, although there is only one "bank") is home to three of Vancouver's superior beaches and far from the madding crowd. Here you can feel truly "away" as you scan the open waterfront to the west or turn your glance back to one of the most beautiful city skylines anywhere.
Spanish Bank is on the Seaside Seawall system with concession, BBQs permitted picnic tables, life-guarded from Victoria Day (late May) to Labour Day (early September), has a quiet beach (no amplified music) on the west side as well as an off-leash area for well behaved dogs. The stretch along the beach is a popular family-friendly place for volleyball, kite-flying, barbecues and skim-boarding.

Cycling in Vancouver is easy and what's more, it is cheap. There are a few rules you have to observe while on the road. Under Canadian road laws a bicycle (horses/motorbikes) is considered a vehicle and should share the same responsibility as any normal cars. You should drive with the traffic and not against it to minimized accidents. Do not try to cycle in the middle of the road, even though you have as much right as a car as most car drivers are unsure whether to pass you by or wait for you. As most of them will probably overtake you, ride far enough to the left to avoid tempting drivers to pass where there isn't enough space. Also watch out for car doors and pedestrians.

As the summer sun slowly sets it is time for me to head home and rest those legs for another adventure...

Here is a short clip of me riding that trail in the University Endowment Lands:

Be sure to come back here soon as i take advantage of the long summer days and prepare my next exciting quest - a long hike in the Pemberton region (past Whistler)...

Grouse Mountain

2008-07-08T15:50:00.001+10:00

Grouse Grind - a trek up the face of the mountain, is such a popular hike in Vancouver that it's even been trademarked. Hiking season in the upper reaches of the North Shore Mountains usually doesn't begin until July as routes can be snow-covered or muddy until then. This continuous uphill battle is often referred to as "Mother Nature's Stairmaster". The 2.9km slog up 853m (2,800 ft) is brutal but rewarding as there are wonderful views of the city below. I completed the trek to the Peak’s plateau in one hour and 5 minutes. Not bad for a heavily sweating guy who thought it would take longer for the first attempt this year! The fastest completion time to date is 26 minutes and 19 seconds - don't think i can beat that person's record.

Grouse Mountain - Grouse Mountain is Vancouver’s premiere four-season attraction. Panoramic views of the city, oceans and mountains unfold as the Skyride, North America’s largest aerial tram system, whisks visitors to the mountaintop, 3,700’ above the city. Hikers were first recorded on Grouse Mountain back in 1894 when a hunting party shot a blue grouse bird (a hen like bird whose distinctive "whump-whump-whump" mating call characterizes the coast range in spring) and named the mountain in the bird’s honour. It wasn’t until the 1920’s and early 30’s however that Grouse Mountain saw the first big wave of adventurous hikers. Grouse Mountain is also home to Vancouver's first high speed detachable quad chairlift, The Screaming Eagle. Grouse Mountain claims this lift to have been the "world's first". This claim is disputed by at least several other ski areas making authentication difficult. The Eagle can transport guests at a speed of 5.08 metres per second across what is easily one of the continent's most famous ski runs, including The Cut. A place where i spent most winter days snowboarding here...

The Peak - I continued my hike to the top of the Peak at 1231 m (4039 ft). This mountain is a familiar landmark to anyone landing in Vancouver and at night the lights from the illuminated ski runs mark the sky. From the peak a Tandem Paragliding company operates taking people high up in the sky. Something i am considering doing. As summer kicks in the heat melts what once was my winter playground for snowboarding, the views from around the mountain are amazing. Especially on this clear day. Looking back at how this place was covered with meters deep of snow and amazed at how different the terrain is now.

Grizzly Habitat - The Refuge for Endangered Wildlife is principally comprised of a five acre mountaintop habitat that is home to two orphaned Grizzly Bears, Grinder & Coola. There is also a Grey Wolf habitat located at the base of the mountain. Grinder was found orphaned June 5, 2001 in Invermere, British Columbia. He was wandering alone on a logging road, dehydrated, thin, weak and weighing only 4.5 kg. His mother was never found so how he came to be alone is unknown. Coola was found orphaned at the side of the highway on June 29, 2001 near Bella Coola, British Columbia. His mother had been hit and killed by a truck. Of her three cubs, Coola was the only one to survive. One cub was hit by a falling tree and the other ran away and was not seen again. See video clip below.

Other entertainment found of this Mountain is The World Famous Lumberjack Show, Birds in Motion Demonstration and Theatre In the Sky. Other adventures are Mountain Ziplining, Tandem Paragliding and Helicopter Tours.

Grouse Mountain and its aerial tramway stood in for the fictional "Skyland Mountain" in the Blue Ridge of Virginia, in a 1994 episode of TV show The X-Files in which Dana Scully is abducted on top of the mountain. The X-Files was filmed in the Vancouver region for its first five years.

Glad my camera is back fixed and working like new again : ) More adventures to come soon as summer kicks in and the heat rises!!! Woo Hoooooooo. . .

Happy Canada Day!

2008-07-02T04:56:00.000+10:00

Canada celebrates 141st birthday - from coast to coast (Newfoundland to British Columbia), across the country, Canadians came out to celebrate the nation's 141st birthday before ending in burst of fireworks and jubilation. In an earlier statement, Harper (Canada’s Prime Minister) said Canadians should celebrate what unites them as they gather in their backyards, parks, city, town and village centres to celebrate the nation's 141st birthday, adding that this year Canadians have more to celebrate.

"Today is the day we celebrate our home and native land. Together, we are rich in opportunity and diversity, French and English, aboriginal and multicultural, native-born and newcomers,".
"2008 is a year of historic anniversaries: the 400th anniversary of the founding of Quebec City by Canada's first governor, Samuel de Champlain; the 250th anniversary of the establishment of representative government in Nova Scotia, making Canada one of the world's first democracies; and the 150th anniversary of the founding of the Crown Colony of British Columbia, ensuring our country would one day stretch from sea to sea," said Harper.

My day was filled with fun as house mates and friends (Canadian, British, New Zealand and myself, Australian) celebrated Canada Day at the local Kitsilano Beach. The day was enjoyed playing games of Bocce in this lovely fine weather, relaxing, drinking beers (don’t tell the RCMP) and indulging with a lovely BBQ on the grass. To end the day we headed to Stanley Park to catch the fireworks which illuminated the skyline marking another birthday for Canada. Happy Canada Day!

Take the Canadian Quiz:

http://www.canada.com/topics/lifestyle/story.html?id=80cd431b-c7c8-40a2-bdba-3c5137682ac3

Camping and White-water Rafting

2008-06-30T16:27:00.001+10:00

Camping and White-water Rafting - great weekend. It was housemate Collin's 33rd Birthday and to help celebrate we had a great Canadian camping and adventure weekend!

BC Camping at its best! Collin and Tiffany, the Kiwi's Sam and Sarah, Damon and I in two cars left Vancouver and drove up the sea-to-sky (99) Hwy just past the town of Squamish. Rahgen caught the bus the next day for the rafting adventure only.

After passing Squamish we drove into Brackendale and then along a long dirt road for more than 30 miles to spend the evening in a remote wilderness campsite complete with sandy beaches, fast flowing glacier rivers and stunning views of the entire region. Brackendale is also renowned as the world’s eagle capital. The drive up to Elaho, located just an hour from Vancouver & Whistler British Columbia, was exhilarating as the dirt road is hazardous and heavily active with logging trucks. We found a camp site very close to the river system, pristine BC wilderness, massive glaciers, spectacular waterfalls and snowcapped mountains. Cannot ask for anything better than that!

BC whitewater rafting on the edge! The following day we met at the Canadian Outback Adventures Base near Brackendale, for the Elaho (EE-la-ho) exhilarating white-water rafting adventure. As part of an eight person team (including guide) we ran the Squamish and Elaho rivers for approximately 2-3 hours, through approximately 16kms (10 miles) of British Columbia’s most inspiring wilderness. This whitewater rafting adventure took us through deep canyons, past massive glaciers and spectacular waterfalls. Not to forget taking some time to reconnect with the world-class scenery including old growth forests, dormant volcanoes, towering glaciers and stunning waterfalls that cascade hundreds of feet toward the river. The weather was very warm and the heat was rising making ideal for this adventure.

The course manoeuvre’s through exciting Class 3-4 rapids including the challenging “Devil’s Elbow” section, used for Mark Burnett's 1996 Eco-Challenge Adventure Race. With the summer heat sweltering away the snow capped mountains was feeding the river with its melting glaciers. We were very lucky to take the ride as there is a cut off marker before it is restricted. I took the opportunity to swim a section of the rapids and got the chance to cool off with a quick jump off a 15 foot high cliff above the river into the pure, glacier-fed, jade-tinted water. At the end of the day we unwind back at the Adventure Base enjoying the rest of this beautiful day and BBQ whilst watching the prepared slideshow featuring our excursion on the river.

The drive back was nice and unwinding as we headed back down the sea to sky hwy to Vancouver again. The view across the Howe Sound and the late summer evening sunset was a great way to end the lovely summer day. It was an adrenaline pumped super weekend that I won’t forget too soon.

Here is a promo video from the Rafting Company that'll give you an idea of what this adventure was all about - awesome:

Cirque Du Soleil Vancouver

2008-06-26T08:01:00.000+10:00

Cirque Du Soleil Vancouver - Corteo, which means "cortege" in Italian is a joyous procession, a festive parade imagined by a clown. The show brings together the passion of the actor with the grace and power of the acrobat to plunge the audience into a theatrical world of fun, comedy and spontaneity situated in a mysterious space between heaven and earth.

The clown pictures his own funeral taking place in a carnival atmosphere, watched over by quietly caring angels. Juxtaposing the large with the small, the ridiculous with the tragic and the magic of perfection with the charm of imperfection, the show highlights the strength and fragility of the clown, as well as his wisdom and kindness, to illustrate the portion of humanity that is within each of us. The music, by turns lyrical and playful, carries Corteo through a timeless celebration in which illusion teases reality. Here are some video's to describe some of the peformance.

First Day of Summer Festivals

2008-06-23T04:25:00.000+10:00

Longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and the weekend was jam packed. Camera is currently broken and in repairs with Canon. Gone back to my old camera so not as good quality!

Greek Day - Kitsilano

Sunday was full on with festivals everywhere. It was Greek day in Kitsilano, 5 blocks on West Broadway was blocked whilst marquees of food, games and live music were in play. To coincide with the 150 year celebration of British Columbia the Greek Day celebrations theme for this years event is ”Remembering our Past. Sharing our Future”. This theme has been chosen to showcase how Greek Mythology and Ancient Greek Culture has been the guiding light to modern times. The event showcases the impact that the many Greeks who immigrated to BC made while maintaining their culture on the cultural fabric of BC today. This is even more relevant in 2008 as British Columbia celebrates its 150th Anniversary.

Dragon Boat racing - False Creek

The 20th anniversary Rio Tinto Alcan Dragon Boat races was on at False Creek (next to Science World). Colourful dragon boats race down False Creek all day. It was very nice and special for the breast cancer participants. They played tribute to the rowers, all survivors of cancer, after their race they put their boats together and threw pink carnations in the water. Recognized as North America's biggest and best, Vancouver's Rio Tinto Alcan Dragon Boat Festival 20th Anniversary will be a true celebration of multiculturalism, attracting over 90,000 people and more than 180 dragon boat teams from across the Lower Mainland and around the globe.

International Jazz Festival - Gastown

After dragon boat I caught up with an English work colleague, Mark. He’s a whinging pom but I’m used to it now. We wandered over to Gastown as the international Jazz festival is playing all over Vancouver this week. Some places free and others charge. They had 3 stages scattered around Gastown and all played diverse music to another. Got a spot in the sun and enjoyed the tunes.

Whistler Mountain last day!

2008-06-09T15:29:00.000+10:00

Whistler - Final day today for Whistler/Blackcomb as the runs and chair lifts to Blackcomb Mountain close for the season. The only section of the mountain that remains opened is the Glacier, where its all year round skiing and snowboarding.

There was still plenty of snow on the top of the mountains but had to be careful. Further down the runs got sloppy and thin as the snow melted and turned into the muddy trails. The weather wasn't the best either however many people still made it onto the mountain and most were dressed up in either their favourite fancy dress or were just being silly. Here are some photos taken to give you an idea of how its changed from the Village to Crystal Ridge.

Crystal Ridge is one of Whistler Blackcomb's most unique area's. The terrain is wonderfully varied with rolling cruisers like Ridge Runners, steeps like Straight Shot and exciting glades everywhere. The lifts are accessed just below Glacier and Jersey Cream Express. Enjoy the photos, i enjoyed the ride:

One year in Vancouver!

2008-06-06T14:22:00.000+10:00

Vancouver - what... Its been a year already??? Okay so what. More adventures are on the way as spring gets under way!
Vancouver in spring is one of the best times of the year to experience the early kiss of summer and still see the white of snow on the tips of the local mountains. Springtime here is truly a product of showers from a low hanging mist on Coal harbour in the morning to the warm beaches, blossoms and magnolias in the afternoon sun. I still say fours seasons in one day!

Enjoy these pictures taken recently around Vancouver:

Friend Visiting Vancouver

2008-06-04T04:27:00.000+10:00

Family Friend visiting - awesome to see someone i know visiting here in Vancouver. George (Fr) Nehme on holidays in North America (Canada and US) and here in Vancouver doing some sightseeing. Here is the tourist and the tour-guide (me)! Had lots of fun, sightseeing and relaxing! Enjoy:

Kitsilano Beach

2008-06-01T15:14:00.000+10:00

Kitsilano - my local beach, is one of the most popular beaches in Vancouver. The beach is home to the longest swimming pool in Canada, the salt-water outdoor Kitsilano Pool. South of the pool is the Kitsilano Showboat outdoor entertainment venue. With its backdrop of North Shore mountains, the beach side amphitheatre stages amateur performances three times a week.

Being the last day of May spring is slowly kicking in. Took the bike out for a ride as the weather was sensational at last. A lazy day and a few hours sleep i worked on getting my tan back! It didn't take long. The beach was packed full of people playing Frisbee, hacky-sack, playing their musical instruments such as guitar, volleyball, playing ball, having fun and simply just admiring the views.

Here are some more photos to enjoy...

COMING UP - ONE YEAR TO DATE SINCE ARRIVING HERE IN VANCOUVER!
Also next weekend is the final days for Whistler before the runs officially close for the season. Not going to miss that one so come back again soon as i update more of my weekend blogs and adventures... Wow, has it been a year already?