Q: I'm visiting my boyfriend in Seattle in a week and we're planning on going to Vancouver for a day. What things should we definitely do in terms of culture, food, and fun? I'm hoping for things that aren't too expensive (I'm a college student) or time-consuming (we're spending 6 hours on the road traveling to and fro). I'd like to get a taste of Canada's uniqueness since I've never been. Thanks!
A: I would suggest taking the skytrain from one end to the other. It's a wonderful way to see the city (it's elevated through much of it's route), and at the end station in Vancouver (Waterfront), you can transfer to the seabus and take the seabus from Vancouver to North Vancouver. On the North Vancouver end there is the Lonsdale Quay (key) where you can grab lunch and enjoy the vistas of the city and the mountains. For something fun to eat, I would recommend the Naam restaurant at 2724 West Fourth Avenue. It's a vegetarian resturaunt, the parking sucks, but the food is amazing! Walking on the seawall around Stanley Park is also nice. If the weather is nice, it can get very busy. If it's raining, it can get cold - but it's still a nice stroll. That's a real Vancouver activity! As you are a college student, you may find it particilarly interesting to check out UBC (Vancouver) and SFU (Burnaby). These are both major universities and have their own individual character and charm. One warning - be prepared to pay for parking. Throughout the various parks, including Stanley Park, there is pay parking... Have a good trip!!