I may technically be a fish out of water, but I have found a new pond. Vancouver is alive, and I am happy to be one of its visitors just trying to keep up.
I have experienced some fabulous moments (Joannie Rochette’s emotional turn on the ice during her short program last night, and the Team Canada’s annihilation of Team Finland—all hail the mighty women of Team Canada!—to name just two), and look forward to a few more before the Olympic flame is extinguished on Sunday.
To that end, I have enjoyed exploring all that Vancouver has to offer. So whether you’re in Vancouver enjoying the games, or are planning a future trip out west, here are some Cal Gal-approved musts:
Coffee: I have yet to taste anything as fabulous as the raspberry caramel latte at Medina Café.
Brunch: I’d go back in a gulp for the Mushroom Frittata at Glowbal, not to mention the Kobe Meatball Satay. Yum.
Dinner: Making my way through the dining landscape of downtown Van has been a treat. The two standouts so far include Coast—a seafood lover’s paradise, and Town Hall— great place to hang with friends, enjoy a drink, and the killer Skirt Steak Cobb Salad.
Pampering: After hours and hours of walking, my tired feet needed some TLC ASAP. So I hoofed it to Cranberries Spa on Robson St., where my feet were soothed and re-polished to perfection with Akzentz gel nail polish—a locally-made instant dry polish that doesn’t smudge or chip!
Shopping: While there is no shortage of shops on any street in downtown Vancouver, there is plenty to covet at Plenty. I have been back twice, and am sporting a new military-inspired jacket for my efforts.