Vancouver

This is my hometown, Vancouver, through my lens. 

Like the rest of Vancouverites and Canadians, I used to also make fun of this city as no-fun-couver.  I can't remember why, though.  I think it was the lack of an exciting night life and people didn't have much to do?  I think I myself was just boring.  And so are the people who said that now that I think about it.  Yes, we don't have a razzle dazzle nightlife like New York, Tokyo, Buenos Aires, Berlin or Bangkok but we have so much more to offer.  I now think people who think Vancouver is boring is because they are boring.

We have an amazing food culture.  We have cuisines - authentic, creative or fusion - from all over the world.  And most of them are divine.  We also have a delectable selection of vegetarian and vegan places that could turn a meat lover to contemplate on becoming a vegetarian or vegan.  Many restaurants, bakeries and eateries also cater to those on a gluten-free diet.  Those who love to walk and sip - me included - will not be disappointed by the many coffee shops, smoothie places and bubble tea chains here.  Don't even get me started on the delicious ice-cream, popsicle and frozen yogurt options around the city.  I'm always in the mood for a good London Fog ice-cream on a waffle cone.  There is also an overwhelming number of food trucks with unique food ideas that would give 'dining out' a new definition.

Besides satisfying your belly, there are also lots of options for the great outdoors.  We cannot be prouder for our many hiking trails with breathtaking views.  Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and snowtubing are also popular winter activities.  We also have a silly number of parks for picnics, sunbathing, reading, relaxing or just hanging with friends. 

We are not totally artsy and cultured (yet) but give us some time.  We just had our second annual Vancouver Mural Festival and it's given parts of this city a much needed facelift.  We just look so much cooler already!  I have always loved murals and this new tradition just makes me feel even more proud to be a Vancouverite.  Besides murals, there are numerous beautiful things and places in this multicultural city waiting for you to discover. 

Raincouver?  Sure.  That is indeed true.  It does rain a lot here and it can get a little gray.  But then again, it is also your state of mind that determines your view of the external world.  I find the sounds of raindrops pitter-pattering on the window calming.  The sensation of raindrops touching the skin revitalizing and therapeutic.  The sight of raindrops falling into a puddle, creating ripple after ripple beautiful and mesmerizing.  What about you?  Do you feel the rain or just get wet?