Vancouver is #blessed. The city, the water, the mountains, Vancouver has it all. I love the laid-back outdoorsy vibe – so much to do from biking, hiking, skiing, or spending a day on the boat. I also learned that Vancouver is quite the foodie city.  I could see myself living in one of Vancouver’s eclectic neighborhoods, exploring the local markets, and discovering new hiking trails that beg to be explored. I can’t wait to go back but till then, I’ve to put together a list of some of my favorite spots.

FERRY FROM VICTORIA TO VANCOUVER. Before I get started, I wanted to give you a quick transportation lowdown. After my last sea-sick excursion, (the ferry from Seattle to Victoria)  I was a little nervous about taking the ferry from Victoria to Vancouver. We were scheduled for the 9 pm ferry ride to catch the sunset. I HIGHLY recommend the 9 pm ferry ride. It was one of the most gorgeous things I had ever seen. This ferry was much bigger, like big enough to drive a bus and multiple cars onto, so this ride was a total breeze.

WHERE TO STAY IN VANCOUVER

FAIRMONT PACIFIC RIM

From the moment I walked into the Fairmont Pacific Rim, I felt like a complete superstar. To be honest, I think one of the reasons I fell head over heels for Vancouver is because of our experience at the Fairmont. The stunning interiors, central location, free bike rentals, delightful staff, live music, and exceptional amenities (can you say, rooftop spa AND pool) made our stay unforgettable. The exterior and interiors are breathtaking and our room actually made me tear when I walked into the bathroom! We stayed in the Signature Ofuro room that overlooks the water. Floor to ceiling glass windows overlook Coal Harbor and the North Shore Mountains as steamboats, seaplanes, and the Disney cruise dance on the water. I think I could tear again just thinking of it. Take me back!

Each afternoon I spent my time catching sun by the pool, sipping tea at the rooftop spa lounge, or taking advantage of the free bike rentals and exploring Stanley Park. We also had the Stay & Taste Package which includes a $50 dining credit. Considering the cafes and restaurants are all amazing, I HIGHLY recommend.

BOTANIST

Jordan and I managed to escape from my parents one evening and had dinner at Botanist located inside of the Fairmont. This meal was a turning point in our relationship – one of those evenings where everything was just perfect and you can’t help but just smile at each other in appreciation. The menu was fresh, local, and ethically sourced – there’s something for everyone, even me, the picky eater! Our waiter was oh so talkative and friendly but gave us enough privacy to enjoy each other’s company. We ate in the Champagne room and sipped bubbly before our meal. Pretty romantic if I say so myself!

WHERE TO EAT IN VANCOUVER

TRACTOR

Great spot downtown for a quick and healthy lunch. Cafeteria style. Tasty. Expensive. Organic.

NIGHTINGALE

Trendy dinner spot in downtown with great atmosphere. Small plates. Tapas style. My brother, Landon, said this is the perfect place to see your full order eaten by other people. LOL. Brussel sprouts were amazing.

CHAMBAR

Brunch spot we biked to. THE WAFFLES! Best waffles. Definitely order a side of the chocolate raspberry sauce to dip your waffles into – so delicious. The menu was very different but I enjoyed trying new flavors and plates.

THE WATERSHED

After hiking Joffre Lakes we stopped in Squammish for a quick meal at The Watershed.  Chill bar & restaurant with Canadian eats, TV sports & weekend breakfast, plus a riverfront patio. The view and food were both simply amazing.

WHAT TO DO IN VANCOUVER

HIKE TO JOFFRE LAKES

We decided to rent a car and drive up to Whistler and Joffre Lakes Provincial Park to hike. Along the hiking trail you’ll encounter three turquoise blue waters: Lower, Middle and Upper Joffre lakes, each more stunning than the last. The saturated blue color is caused by “rockflour” – or glacial silt – suspended in the water and reflects green and blue wavelengths of sunlight. Could not believe what I was seeing! Keep in mind, these photos have #NOFILTER.

BIKE AROUND STANLEY PARK

 I could run or bike this trail everyday! Stanley Park is a 405-hectare public park that borders the downtown of Vancouver in British Columbia, Canada and is almost entirely surrounded by waters of Vancouver Harbour and English Bay.

GASTOWN

Here that you’ll find cobble stone walkways and stunning architecture that set the stage for some of Vancouver’s best shopping, restaurants and cafes. Make sure you stop by the Lululemon Lab!

LULULEMON LAB

The Lululemon Lab Vancouver is a design concept spaces for lululemon that focuses on collections that are more fashion forward. These collections are produced in limited quantities that are exclusive to the lab space.

GRANVILLE ISLAND

Come hungry!! This is a peninsula & shopping district known for its public market, brewery & thriving artist community.