Vancouver Travel

Years ago, I remember being in the break room and overhearing a conversation that an ex-colleague was having. Miss J is what I’ll call her, but she talks about her vacation to British Columbia and how beautiful it is over there.

At the time, I thought she sounded like an elitist, part of the bourgeoisie able to afford a vacation that took her to the other and outside the country. I was projecting though. At the time, I didn’t really travel. My insecurities were showing.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Look at how God works.

This is now my second trip to Vancouver, British Columbia. My manger wasn’t crazy about the 8 hour flight, so she trades with me. As a matter of fact though, I love the long flight (Delta Points!!). Plus, a trip this lengthy takes me out of the office for a whole week. Beans is out here winning!

Though, living in NY, in September, we’re in the final days of summer, I figure over there, it would be cooler. I check the weather for Vancouver and I pack. Among my outfits for the week, I’m sure to pack my plaid dress from ASOS and boots. Again, this being my second trip, I remember that Vancouver has a feel of the people of the land, a rustic sensibility to it. To me, plaid is the visualization of such a feeling.

I’m all packed up and childcare is secure, now it’s time to head out and re-discover the beauty of Vancouver.

Foreigner in Vancouver

Arriving at Vancouver International Airport, I’m always a bit thrown off going through customs. There are two lines: one for domestic passports and one for foreign. Coming from the United States, in Vancouver, the passport I hold is foreign. It’s kind of a trip being regarded as a foreigner, but it speaks to my elitist sensibilities as an American Citizen.

Descending from customs, I pass by Vancouver International’s amazing Flight (Spindle Whorl) artwork. Made of red cedar, it’s a huge piece (4.8 meters in diameters) and is draped by falling water. Just a lovely display, I always stop to take a photo.

Things to Do in Vancouver

Here’s the rub, when you’re traveling for work, it’s literally an in and out. While they are plenty of things to do in Vancouver, there just isn’t any time.

I’ve wanted to go on several adventures including taking the Vancouver Ferry into Victoria or jumping on the Sky Train to Capilano Suspension Bridge park. However, when can I find time after an eight hour flight? I’m fried. Next two days are work, then it’s back on a plane I go.

There just isn’t anytime, but the little time I do have, I certainly make the best of. My walks on Quayside boardwalk are absolutely delightful.

Vancouver Economy

As I look at my amazing view, and see the various cargo boats descend up and down the port, I wonder: what fuels Vancouver’s economy? How are the residents living here making money?

Turns out, Vancouver’s economy is one of the strongest in Canada. This is due in part to the city’s being home to Canada’s largest port. Vancouver’s key economic sectors include: International Trade, Film & TV, Technology, Tourism and Finance.

On top of this, in the financial sector, there is very little employee turnover because of the comfort factor associated with living in Vancouver.

Goodbye, & Hopefully, see you Again

Another early morning flight back home, it’s time to say goodbye to the beautiful city surrounded by water and mountains. Again, Vancouver is gorgeous, but isn’t making Blissfully Single Bean’s “Move To” list – too far away.

I’d love another visit though, hopefully, I’ll see you again Vancouver.

Blissfully Yours Friends,