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See some of BC's most famous four-legged residents on a tour of the pristine Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary near Prince Rupert.

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2010 Olympics

Richmond O Zone - Ice wine tasting

February 14, 2010 | 2010 Olympics > Richmond, Wineries & Vineyards
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Sikanni River Falls

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While in Richmond to see the O Zone and BC Street, I visited the Inniskillin ice wine booth for a 3 flight tasting ($10). Mmmmm.

To go with the ice wine theme, there were enormous ice scupltures and ice bowls (shown in the picture).

The ice wine I liked best happened to be the one of the three that was from BC. The Okanagan Riesling was the sweetest... and I have a sweet tooth :)

 

Posted by Karen, Vancouver at 10:22 AM

BC Street - Tofino Tent

February 14, 2010 | 2010 Olympics > Richmond, Car / Truck / Motorcycle

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Sikanni River Falls

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I checked out BC Street in Richmond, and loved the Tofino tent. They've completely transformed a white outdoor tent into a rainforest. The first thing I noticed when I walked in was the smell. Cedar scent hung in the air, and made me feel like I was in a forest on the coast. Awesome.

My favorite part of the Tofino tent was a green screen photo booth. You stand on the mark, they snap your pic, and then the background will transform to show you surfing a massive wave or holding an enormous salmon (I went with the fish). I wish I could have seen the pic right away, but they'll be emailing it to me soon.

There's also the chance to chat with a local Aboriginal carver, as well as plenty of artwork. Very laid-back vide -- a must visit.

Posted by Karen, Vancouver at 10:03 AM

Olympic Gear in Vancouver

February 11, 2010 | 2010 Olympics > Vancouver, Shopping
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Sikanni River Falls

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I’ve firmly attached myself to the Olympic gear bandwagon. It started with a pair of red mittens, and I’ve since added a hoodie, a maple leaf toque, a t-shirt, and face paint. Whew.

Here’s where to gear yourself up for the Games:

Clothes: Plenty of shops are selling Canada-themed items. The Olympic Superstore at The Bay is well-stocked with official Olympic gear. Some stores have options for other countries; try Roots and lululemon. Customize your own tee at Bang-On or Cherry Bomb.

Flags: Head to the Flag Shop!

Face Paint: Face paint shows the team – and anyone you accidently rub up against – that you’re a true fan. Dressew and Party Bazaar are my favorite places in town to pick up good quality face paint – Dressew was almost sold out, so move quickly!

Olympic Superstore at The Bay: Granville & Georgia; Roots: various locations; lululemon: various locations, Bang-on (961 Robson St or 1062 Davie St); Cherry Bomb (841 Granville St); Flag Shop (1615 Powell St); Dressew (337 W Hastings St); Party Bazaar (215 W 2nd Ave).

Posted by Karen, Vancouver at 10:30 AM

Skating (and skating stars) at Robson Square

February 05, 2010 | 2010 Olympics > Vancouver, Attractions
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Sikanni River Falls

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There’s a lot of buzz surrounding Robson Square. First, it got a makeover, then it re-opened its ice rink, and now it’s bringing in figure skating royalty. Katarina Witt (’88 Olympic gold medalist) and Elizabeth Manley (’88 Olympic silver medalist) will be at Robson Square on Sunday, Feb 7 at 11:30 am… and it’s expected to be an emotional on-ice reunion.

Robson Square is part of BC Pavilion; over the past few weeks, I’ve watched the site transform from streets and sidewalks to a hub of activity. People are skating (for free!) at the outdoor ice rink (skate rentals are $3), and there’s now a zipline that runs OVER Robson Street (which will be free and open during the Games – I am willing to wait in line for this!). Huge screens have also been installed for art exhibits and Games broadcasting. I’m looking forward to seeing Robson Square and BC Pavilion filled to the brim with people from around the world during the Games.

(My bud Jonathan Sparks snapped the image above of people enjoying the ice rink earlier this week. Thanks Jon!)

Posted by Karen, Vancouver at 02:14 PM