So, after a sufficient number of holiday parties, Christmas Eve dinner with some Poulsbo friends, and unwrapping presents on Christmas morning, we hit the road and the waterways (via the ferries) and headed to British Columbia, Canada for the New Year. First stop was Victoria, the picturesque capital of BC.
We waited to get on the ferry to cross the strait of Juan de Fuca.
A festive touch on board.
Approaching Vancouver Island. Victoria is to the right.
Once in Victoria, we walked to Fisherman's Wharf, a unique spot where people live in "float homes." Usually a popular tourist destination, it was pretty quiet this time of year.
The BC Parliament Buildings light up the Victoria sky with over 3300 light bulbs
We stayed at the Fairmont Empress. In true British fashion, the Empress is best known for the extravagant afternoon tea that is served daily in the hotel. After all the holiday goodies, we decided to pass.
This is the lobby all gussied up.
The hallway to the room.
And the room was very comfy.
The next day we were off to Vancouver, which required another ferry ride. The scenery was spectacular.
Our first stop was Granville Island Public Market, a feast for the senses.
The following day we headed to Cypress Mountain, a 30 minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
During the 2010 Olympics, the snowboarding and freestyle skiing events were held at Cypress Mountain.
Not feeling very Olympian that day, we decided to do some snowshoeing instead.
We were out for about 3.5 hours, taking a break for lunch.
The view at the end of the hike.
Then it was back to Vancouver for New Year's Eve dinner at a downtown Thai restaurant and a couple of nights at the Wedgewood Hotel.
Best wishes to all for a wonderful 2011!
