My friend Lin, and I decided to go visit some of the Olympic freebies in Vancouver this week. And Granville Island was definitely one of the spots to see.
With all the warnings about lack of available parking, we decided to use public transit.
True bus neophytes, we were a little leery about how it would go. Our adventure started when we were unable to find a adult bus day pass anywhere in White Rock. Maybe seeing all the folks lined up at the bus stops wearing their Olympic colors should have warned us. After all, they did say it would be busy.
We drove to the park and ride, and were shocked to find it completely full, thwarted, but still determined, we drove to Ladner, about 20 minutes away, and easily found a spot to park.
Enthusiastically telling everyone we met about how we needed a “Public transit for dummies” book, Lin quickly made friends with most of the lineup. Lin’s like that.
The bus drivers were amazingly patient, telling us where to go, and how to get there, it seems everyone is on their best Olympic behavior.
With the bus crowded to the limit, we began to dread each stop, but each time they managed to squeeze in a few more of us, I guess that’s what the bendy accordion like material between the two long carriages is for. Lin made friends with more people, and they exchanged life stories. Turns out that everyone almost knew each other, Lin’s like that.
We got to ride the new Olympic line, and each time we stopped, they squeezed in a few more. No one seemed to want to leave, but many more got on. There was even a free tram, which was a blast, and we ran into previous customers that knew us, Lin’s like that.
Granville Island public market, was a sun filled crowed delight, of tourists, food, and flowers. Literally thousands of people swarmed the sidewalks, and stores. We took in the sights, the huge crowds, different languages, and all the cameras busy clicking away. The busker’s busy entertaining the generous crowd, the seagulls, and the sunshine.
By the return trip, although tired, we were now experienced public transit travelers. Definitely on my list to do again.
And if you are anywhere near Vancouver, make sure that you get a chance to visit.
Jen
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How incredibly awesome, you have experienced history in the making.
ReplyDeleteGood Morning Jen, What a thrill for you and Lin. Oh that sounds like so much fun. My dad worked in the public transit business in Atlanta for 44 years and even so I never quite got the "hang" of it and it still makes me nervous til this day!!! Maybe you should write a book! ha ha Enjoy the day and thanks for sharing the awesome pics.
ReplyDeleteI've been wondering what it's been like in Vancouver, finding one's way through the crowds and getting from place to place. I've watched the hours-long lineups for the zipline, wondering 'Why would you put yourself through all that??', but it seems that through all this, there is an extraordinary amount of good-spirited people-mingling and talking and sharing of the experience going on. And to echo Martha Stewart...'That's a very good thing.'
ReplyDeleteGranville Island is, hands down, my favourite place in Vancouver. Love that place.
ReplyDeleteI've been avoiding the Olympic crowds, so I haven't partaken of any of the free venues, etc. I did manage, however, with the help of The Pirate, to snag a pair of the much coveted Red Mittens!
Go Canada!
Well tell Lin I say hi. I don't know her but I am sure we will run into each other some day. Lol.
ReplyDeleteI bet it was fun seeing all the people that were visiting. You had perfect weather for you adventure!
ReplyDeleteThanks for a taste of the crowds..I will have to come visit during the non crowded season. Did you talk to anyone? LOL..maybe Bootsie had your tongue:)
ReplyDeleteIt looks so warm where you are! Sounds like a great adventure.
ReplyDeleteWhat a thrill, Jen, and in spite of the crowds, a 'once in a lifetime' fun adventure. I've certainly enjoyed watching the Olympics, Vancouver a beautiful host city.
ReplyDeleteAgh so cool!! I have to say, I was NOT prepared for just how BEAUTIFUL it is up there! Even though I see the beauty through your lens, I was still awed by the scenery coming through the tv. Just...gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteOOh sounds like so much fun. I would love to be down there to join in the party! Unfortunately it's not an option. But i'm enjoying reading all about the excitement though the eyes of the many bloggers and twitterters I follow as well as listening to CBC radio and watching ctvolympics.ca.
ReplyDeleteI've been following the olympics on the BBC and CBC (thanks to the link from Carolynn!). The BBC have been doing programmes from all round the Vancouver area as well as the sports events, so I've had a taste of all the excitement ....it's even made me think I might venture down to London for the 2012 summer olympics after all! :)
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