Western Canada 2007

My flight left at 6:15 am this morning out of Monterey. It was actually busier than I've ever seen it at the Monterey Airport, but one hour was plenty of time to wait in line, check in, wait in the security line, and wait to board! I flew to Salt Lake City, then after a 2-hour layover, flew to Vancouver. Neither flight was crowded so I had the whole row to myself! Salt Lake and the salt flats are pretty impressive--larger than I thought, if I really ever thought about it!

Landing in Vancouver was a little scary, and I like take offs and landings! The plane flies way out into the ocean, then circles back, and flies real low before touching down. I hadn't realized that the airport was right on the edge of the water; they said, "we're cleared to land," and I'm thinking, "land where?!" I couldn't see any land!! It was cloudy and a little muggy when I got here about noon.

I took a taxi from the airport to the hotel. Only about 20 minutes, but $30.00! The exchange rate is about even between the US and Canadian dollar. So sad! The taxi driver said he'd heard that they are keeping the US dollar weak on purpose to keep exporting strong. Hmm--bummer.

My hotel is great! My room is especially spacious after experiencing European hotel rooms! Even though it was early, and there was no time change, I was so tired because I'd barely slept the night before--too excited! So I took a nap before wandering out onto Robson Street to explore. Blue skies came out while I was sleeping! I walked a few blocks, bought some bottled water, picked up a burrito from Steamrollers. They steam all of their food so it's healthier than if it were cooked in oils.  I didn't stop at the gilato place across the street yet but you can bet I will be soon!!

Now I'm watching "Canadian Idol"! It's 9 pm and still pretty light out. Tomorrow I catch the trolley first thing and take a trip around the city!