On the local television today it was announced that March was the wettest on record in British Columbia and by the looks of the weather since we arrived, April looks set to join it. What makes it worse is that all our Facebook friends back in the UK seem to be experiencing some balmy spring days. Nevermind we are on holiday!!
In light of the weather, whilst the youngsters made their way to enjoy the markets on Granville Island, Sylvia and I decided to explore the hotel and the local environs. First stop was the oldest part of Vancouver, Gastown. Situated about two blocks away from the hotel this area is made up of period buildings many of which have been restored to their former glory. One highlight is the steam clock which strikes Westminster chimes every hour and is said to be the world’s first steam operated clock.
A little further down the street can be found the statue of “Gassy” Jack Deighton, the owner of the city’s first saloon who was instrumental in founding of Vancouver. The statue is located at the site where the early settlers came up with the name of Vancouver for the city.
Overall Gastown is still a little run-down with some beggars making approaches during our visit, although it is said to be the most up and coming part of the city. Amongst the seedy bars and “head” shops could be found several second-hand record shops so it wasn’t all bad.
After a short visit to a local shopping mall we returned to explore the hotel. The Pan Pacific is a high rise modern hotel located in the middle of the main Vancouver exhibition centre and therefore the clientale is mainly business types. However this weekend the programme in the centre is a little varied….
….so alongside the suited businessmen were hundreds of young cheerleaders from all over Canada and North West USA. In addition the hotel sits on top of the cruise terminal but as our ship will be the first of the season there are few passengers around yet. Our ship should be moored here on Tuesday morning.
Throughout the hotel and convention centre there is an exhibition of native American art which includes these totem poles stretching over several floors of the atrium…..
….and a mixture of hangings such as this.
Also featured is memorabilia from the 2010 Winter Olympics that were held in the city. Items on view included the Olympic and Paralympic torches and examples of the medals presented.
Of course the podium was meant for photo opportunities.
This evening after a lovely Italian meal Joey found a cuddly friend outside in the rain.
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