Gastown

Overslept this morning. Perhaps it was the wine.. Anyway, after a rushed breakfast at the hotel we hit Highway 99 for the 130Km or so run down to Vancouver. This route takes in some spectacular views of the Pacific of which we got plenty of time to enjoy thanks to the construction along the way. It seems that much of the road is being upgraded, with lots of rock blasting and general construction going on. This is in preparation for the 2010 Winter Olympics which Vancouver is hosting. After checking in to the Empire Landmark Hotel and dropping the car off, we had some Dim Sum for lunch (very nice!). Then we went for a walk around the city. Unfortunately, the weather had turned. It was generally grey and drizzly. We managed to have a wander around Gastown. This is the old part of the city and its main highlight is the Steam Clock (pictured), and its statue of "Gassy Jack". The clock is quite a cool contraption which sounds off the hours with steam whistles. We then headed for Canada Place. This is a huge, conference center and dock for cruise ships shaped like a huge cruise ship. It rightfully boasts some great views across the bay, with sea-planes and all manner of ships coming and going. By this time, we were feeling knackered and a bit damp, so we headed back to the hotel. I hit the gym for 45 minutes or so, whilst the Mrs had a nap. Then we set off for some dinner at a Greek restaurant up the road. Food was great, and the place had the genuine taverna feel about it. (Right down to the plastic garden furniture for tables and chairs!). Our hotel is based on Robson St which is a great location, having lots of restaurants, and being within easy walking distance of the major landmarks. We are both astonished at the cheapness of sushi here! We pay about £25 for sushi when we treat ourselves at home. This gets us a small amount of toro, salmon, etc. If we spent that much here, we could feed about 8 people!