Canada
You cannot go to Vancouver without eating at the Old Spaghetti Factory in Gastown. It's a living museum of Canada's colourful past and has brilliant food.
Suite 210 - 55 Water St.
Tel: (604) 684 1287
www.oldspaghettifactory.ca
Great collection of Emily Carr's paintings. Really worth a visit.
750 Hornby Street;
tel: 604 662 4719;
www.vanartgallery.bc.ca
Best collection of Northwest native art in the world. Stunning setting for beautiful artefacts, totems and the famous sculpture by Bill Reid (The first men). Do not miss
University of British Columbia, 6393 North West Marine Drive;
tel: 604 822 5087
www.moa.ubc.ca
In the heart of China Town there is an oasis. The Chinese gardens are the biggest replica outside of China (I think) and are beautifully kept.
In the summer you can see turtles floating in the ponds and the flowers are stunning.
The guided tours are free and really interesting.
Well worth popping into especially if you happen to be in China town.
578 Carrall Street;
tel: 604 662 3207;
www.vancouverchinesegarden.com
If you want a day outside of Vancouver there's only one way to travel - by float plane. Planes leave from the harbour next to Canada Place and take 20 minutes or so to fly across to Victoria on Vancouver Island, and the views from the tiny plane are stunning. Ask the pilot if you can sit in the front for the best view.
You can then spend an afternoon in Victoria for a perspective on what Canadians think Ye Olde England is like - tea on the lawn of the Empress hotel is a local favourite - or visit the quite fantastic Royal BC Museum, before wandering down to the harbour for your return flight.
Harbour Air, 1075 West Waterfront Road;
604 274 1277;
www.harbour-air.com
www.harbour-air.com
Superb location with views of the sea and mountains. Lots to see, especially the totem poles.
University of British Columbia, 6393 NW Marine Drive;
tel: 604 822 5087;
www.moa.ubc.ca
A landmark from Expo 86, the "Golf Ball" is now home to Vancouver's Science World. There are five permanent galleries in the centre, as well as ALCAN Omnimax theatre, a feature gallery for special exhibitions and Centre Stage for live science shows.
1455 Quebec Street; Tel: 443 7443; www.scienceworld.bc.ca
The building alone is worth the trip, designed by Arthur Erickson and based on traditional northern Northwest Coast post and beam structures. Check out the full scale Totem Poles and outdoor Haida Houses. Adults $9, concessions $7 and children under 6 free.
6393 N.W. Marine Drive; Tel: 604.822.5087; www.moa.ubc.ca
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