Vancouver Day 1 & 2

     Yesterday’s flights all worked perfectly, long but all on time.  Once at the hotel we had to wait for our room but as usual met other Viking guests at the bar so time passed quickly. Back home when I was wondering what to do in Vancouver during the day I discovered Capilarno Suspension bridge park. It began with a cabin and 6000 acres of land on the edge of a canyon built by a Scottish civil engineer in 1888. In 1889 he built a footbridge across the river made of hemp rope and cedar planks. The bridge became an adventure for the locals. The bridge was purchased by Nancy Stibbard in 1983 and she wanted to change it from a mere stop off to a world class destination attraction and her dream was realized in less ten years and is now in the Canadian Tourism Hall of Fame. Over 1.2 million people visit the park each year.

   The suspension bridge is 140 meters long and 70 meters high. It is strong enough to hold about 75 adult elephants. After the bridge we walked the tree top adventure where you walk from tree to tree over 33 meters high above the canyon and yes there are many many steps to walk the entire length. There is a raptor center at the top and the falconer was there sharing the story of his working birds of prey. Back over the bridge we went on the Cliff Walk which is 700 feet long with 147 steps. The viewing platform single lane walk is anchored to the sheer cliff face and is definitely a thrill.

  The park is absolutely stunning and so glad we went. It was like nothing we have ever done before. The weather was beautiful which made it super special considering the amount of rain Vancouver is known for. Our walking up and down steps low level light is definitely out for the year. Tonight we are dining at the Top of Vancouver revolving restaurant perched 553 feet above the city and tomorrow we get on the ship.

More to follow,

Tom & Holly