As we barreled down route 99 heading north towards Vancouver, I wondered where the skyline was hiding. Route 99 is surrounded by towering trees that restrict the peripheral view of the vehicles. However, as we moved to closer to the city and the treeline began to subside, the skyline came into view and we were simply in awe. The city was filled with towering, glass skyscrapers that appeared to be fitted with balconies, signaling a residential tower versus the more common commercial building. We would later learn that the majority of towers in Vancouver are residential and many of Vancouver’s residents reverse commute outside of the city for work.

We stayed with cousins Larry and Pam, who were tremendous hosts (nicknamed Hostel Gold). I can’t stress this enough, but they have to be the best people to visit in Vancouver. Bikes, boats, crab, lamb, lululemon outlets (Adena is thankful), etc. It was a fantastic visit and we thoroughly enjoyed our time. A couple of highlights would be boating through False Creek and the harbor, walking the suspension bridge in Lynn Canyon and biking the city streets. Vancouver is truly the most bikeable city I’ve ever visited with numerous  bike lanes and cross walks criss-crossing the city, you find yourself speeding around quite easily. In addition, the city is incredibly foreigner friendly with easy to understand publc transit (including ferries – the seabus). Speaking of foreigners, the city has a large asian population resulting in some incredible dining options. Vancouver is a must-see on any traveler’s pacific northwest tour.

Many thanks to our fantastic friends and family who hosted and toured us over the last couple of weeks. Thank you to Katie, Will, new friend Rob (thanks for the bike), Suzy, Jonas, Chris G, Pam, Larry and Ben for showing us such a great time. Thank you Wayne and Nicole for being our mentors and motivators as well, we wouldn’t be able to do this without you!Next stop … Tokyo!