It’s another off-season trip for our little family of four! We were lucky to be able to go to Japan just earlier this year, but already aching to go somewhere…not too far, not expensive, doable with a rental car, has good food, and plenty of access to nature, so we landed in Vancouver! We know it will be harder to avoid the busy seasons once our boys are in grade school where attendance and all that matters.
It was a 5-day, 4-night trip. The weather was rainy, but that made it really nice to see the greenery, the fall foliage, and snow! Truly, it was a Vancouver + 1 day/night trip to Whistler and back kind-of-trip. We always say, let’s go at a leisurely pace, but we somehow manage to pack in quite a bit. Here are a list of things for the curious:
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Britannia Mine Museum: We were there just in time for their Dia De Los Muertos mine tour and exhibit where the boys learned about this special festival and finding the alebrije! My husband and oldest enjoyed panning for quartz, emeralds and all other fun rocks while little N was happy just running around the giant hauler.
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Alexander Falls: It was quite rainy in Whistler, so we were sad to not be able to enjoy all the amazing sights, but we made it to one waterfall! This was a perfect spot because the falls were viewable right near the parking. We were pleasantly surprised to see snow.
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Sea to Sky Gondola: Tickets were quite pricey (for adults only), but since we didn’t see as much in Whistler, I decided to just go for it. No regrets at all. It was one of the most beautiful gondola rides we’ve been on. At the top, there are many trails to hike on, which we did some of, even without our usual hiking backpacks for the kids (good job, boys!). The suspension bridge and views were so perfect as the sun peeked out to greet us.
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Richmond: We opted not to stay in Richmond, since we wanted to be closer to the other Vancouver tourist spots, but we sure made daily trips there just for the amazing Cantonese food. Last time I came here was 10 years ago with my family, when my dad raved about the wontons and drove them 18hr road trip style back to SF, so my aunt can have it.
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Granville Island: There was a whole little kids market - toys, arcade and more. That was my whole intention to go…then I realized there were so many other artisan shops that we sadly didn’t have all the time to get around to. You really can spend a whole day here.
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Science World: such a fun spot for both kids and adults. Everything here was interactive, which was great for their exploring, curiosity and simply to get their energy out. We also made it for their Artemis Space exhibit built out of legos!
During this trip, I thought a lot about whether traveling with an almost 5 + 2.5yo is easier or harder compared to earlier this year. Mostly, I think easier. Each time we go somewhere, we pack a little less (less bottles, etc). Nathan is very steady on his feet now, so we don’t worry about him falling. It also means he’s enjoying himself a lot more. They’re bickering away on the car rides (“no, you’re copying me…” “no, YOU’RE copying me”) which, as noisy as it is, also makes me feel so grateful. As usual, I don’t have mindblowing tips for parents other than allotting extra time, having patience, and packing lots of snacks. Plus, a rental car to throw everything in helps a lot.
I am feeling tired and rejuvenated to bring out my best holiday energy for the rest of this year. :)