With the 2010 Winter Olympics taking place in British Columbia in a few months, Amtrak was asked to consider how best to ensure adequate service to and from Vancouver during the event. The study suggests having trains depart the Canadian city later in the evening to allow Washington State residents to attend more events during the day, but it does not propose the addition of any new midday trains, at least in the short term.

One major impediment to expansion of rail service is the required customs and immigration procedures at the U.S.-Canada border, which requires trains to wait at least 15 minutes. The facility can only handle one train at a time; more trains would increase the likelihood of route overlapping and additional delays. As a result, Amtrak proposes that Congress pays for $500,000 in upgrades at the Vancouver station to allow pre-clearance inspections of U.S.-bound passengers there. This would eliminate the mid-journey delay and reduce journey times.

(Source: The Transport Politic)

Geocaching has gained a lot of popularity in British Columbia offlate especially among BC tourists and visitors. Geocaching is an outdoor activity in which the participants use a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver or other navigational techniques to hide and seek containers (called “geocaches” or “caches”) anywhere in the world. A typical cache is a small waterproof container (usually a tupperware) containing a logbook. Larger containers can also contain items for trading, usually toys or trinkets of little value. Geocaching is most often described as a “game of high-tech hide and seek”, sharing many aspects with orienteering, treasure-hunting, and waymarking.  

Recently BC’s environment ministry has announced their green geocaching inititative along with the British Columbia Geocaching Association (BCGA) and Project Blue Sky. They all are teaming up to launch a fun and environmentally friendly geocaching game to encourage provincial parks visits and celebrate the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Besides, check the details below, we also recommend, visiting:

BC Activities

Check out the details below: 

According to Environment Minister Barry Penner: This is an excellent opportunity to get outside and enjoy the adventure of geocaching, while experiencing our amazing network of BC Parks. It’s an exciting game that’s catching on all over the world and I am delighted to launch this geocaching innovation right here in B.C.

GeoTrek 2009 is a fun way to reduce carbon emissions and discover B.C.’s parks at the same time. One hundred caches will be placed in secret locations across the province for geocachers to discover. Approximately 50 caches will be hidden in BC Parks locations, and the other half will be hidden in urban locations. The GeoTrek 2009 geocache containers will be filled with special tokens, such as pins and collectible coins. Tokens will be from BC Parks, Project Blue Sky and the BCGA. Geocaching has become a popular outdoor treasure-hunting game enjoyed throughout the world by adventure seekers equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS) units. Geocachers search for and locate hidden containers called geocaches and then share their experiences online. 

Participants are encouraged to enter their information on the Project Blue Sky website (www.projectbluesky.ca) to show how they reduced their carbon footprint by using green transportation methods to find the geocaches. Project Blue Sky, which was launched by Canada’s Olympic and Paralympic athletes and students from the Centre for Digital Media in Vancouver, uses the latest in online digital tools to motivate people to take steps to fight climate change through increased physical activity and sustainable travel. Project Blue Sky’s ultimate goal is to collect one billion kilometres worth of carbon-cutting contributions before March 2010.  Geocachers can find co-ordinates for the caches from the BCGA’s website (www.bcgeocaching.com) or they can link up to the BCGA website through BC Parks website (www.bcparks.ca). Geocachers are encouraged to view the BC Parks geocaching policy to ensure their participation occurs in a manner that respects the natural values of B.C.’s provincial parks.

I always wondered if there is a way visitors and BC residents can meet Canadian Vancouver 2010 and was excited to come across the news about 2010 Canada Pavilion which will showcase Canadian Athletes, Culture and Unique innovations. This will be a great platform through which common man will be able to meet award winning athletes and show their support.

See some of my favourite excerpts from the press release below:

The Canada Pavilion will be a focal point for Canadian fans and international visitors attending the 2010 Winter Games. It will tell Canada’s story to the world, by helping visitors learn more about Canada’s unique culture, heritage and innovations.

This Pavilion will help to leverage the economic opportunities that come with hosting a major international event and it will promote Canada as an ideal business, investment and tourism destination. This Pavilion will give Canadian fans a place to meet our athletes, show their support and have a chance to get some autographs.

Fans will also have an opportunity to learn more about the Own the Podium program and the support our Government is giving to help our athletes succeed in 2010.

Centrally located at Vancouver’s LiveCity Downtown Celebration Site, the Pavilion will demonstrate Canada’s commitment to creative excellence, sustainable development and fostering diversity with informative and innovative content that is sure to make Canadian’s proud. The 2010 Games will inspire Canada’s young people to get active in sports and live a healthy lifestyle. The Pavilion will provide an opportunity to learn more about Olympic and Paralympic sports and help them to choose the activity that’s right for them.

The Government of Canada is investing $10 million to build a world class Canada Pavilion which will help market Canada to the world. A formal process to obtain proposals from companies interested in designing, building and operating the Canada Pavilion will be initiated by the Department of Canadian Heritage.

To see the whole story, go to:  2010 Canadian Pavilion

I am a big fan of Chef Gordon Ramsay and love watching Hell’s Kitchen (the FOX channel’s reality series ) . I am excited for special two-hour episode on Tuesday, Sept. 22nd 2009 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) during which Chef Gordon Ramsay will showcase Whistler, British Columbia.

If you watch Hell’s Kitchen, you probably know that in this reality tv series, aspiring Chef’s are divided into two teams- red and blue and they compete to win each challenge. Ultimate reward for the last chef standing is Head Chef Position in a prestigious resort. Earlier this year, it was announced in  Hell’s Kitchen that the grand prize for this season is a Head Chef position at Araxi in Whistler, BC. The Winner will have the opportunity to work under Executive Chef James Walt as Whistler welcomes the world during the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

It’s a little known fact that chef Gordon Ramsay paid a secret visit to Whistler earlier this year to film a teaser featuring Araxi and Whistler, British Columbia. In the Sept. 22nd episode (This tuesday), Chef Ramsay shows the chefs how high the stakes are via a satellite tour of the award-winning restaurant and Whistler. I can’t wait to see how show’s producers have captured Whistler’s beauty.

On the same show, the chefs must use 15 local ingredients flown in from Whistler to create three entrees. Guest judges for the challenge include Olympians Sasha Cohen and Jonny Moseley. I am sure the show is going to be an absolute delight for Whistler lovers and ofcourse Chef Ramsay’s fans.

John Muir, once said:

Climb the mountains and get their good tidings.
Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees.
The winds will blow their own freshness into you…
while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.

Yes, care will drop off from you like Autumn leaves if you visit Whistler. It will rejuvenate and fill you with passion for life once again. Whistler is only 1.5 to 2 hours from Vancouver and the drive is beautiful.

I remember my first visit to Whistler, British Columbia- about four years ago and ever since, I have been a regular visitor. The highway which is practically clinging to the mountainside is exciting and the spectacular views of Howe Sound will keep you entertained on the way. You will start seeing snow capped peaks after the small town of Squamish along with lovely Cedar and Douglas Fir Forests which endow the valley.

If you wish to detour or take a break, keep an eye out for Diamond Head and Elfin Lakes or various provincial parks like Alice Lake Provincial Park and Brandywine Falls provincial park. Once in Whistler, enjoy Golfing, Mountain biking or take a ride on a jet-boat or a glider out of the magnificent Pemberton valley only 25 minutes north of Whistler.

I will strongly recommend visitors to pack their snack bags for munching on the way as there are not very many restaurants along the way.  Life is short so enjoy it to its fullest and one of the best ways to do it is by visiting Whistler, British Columbia.

Related Links:

Top Whistler Pubs

Accommodations around Vancouver

If you are looking for a place to stay around Vancouver then Maple Ridge is a great option. Maple Ridge is only 40-45 minutes drive away from Vancouver. If you are travelling through the region then choose to stay at Maple Ridge Inn & Suites.   

 Reasons to choose Maple Ridge Inn and Suites:

1. Competitive prices. They often offer great discount deals to familes, seniors, business travellers so do ask them about their deal of the season.

2. You can take advantage of their fitness center, which features state-of-the-art equipment as well as a whirlpool.

3. Comfortable rooms with king and queen sized beds plus in-room coffee and tea and complimentary movie channels.

4. Guests can also enjoy delicious home-style meal, at the Pantry family restaurant right.

5. Fully equipped meeting and banquet facilities ideal for group’s meetings or parties up to 100 people.

The other reasons that the guests choose to stay at Maple Ridge Inn and Suites is that they offer stylish and high quality furnishings, air conditioning, in room coffee and tea, hair dryer, iron and ironing board, and a 27′ inch television with four 24h movie channels.

In addition, suites feature fridges, microwave, and a second television which is perfect for families with kids. One of their special units is their Jaccuzi Suite perfect for after a round of golf, or a special occasion like birthdays and anniversaries. Business travellers will love the fact that they offer complimentary wired internet in guest rooms and wireless internet in the lobby.

Have you ever had a chance to stay at Maple Ridge Inn and Suites (Formerly Best Western)? Do share your experience with us and our readers.

British Columbia’s wine industry has always been innovative and exciting for wine lovers. We have some world class wineries and excellent wines. Recently, Sumac Ridge Estate Winery located in Summerland (Southern Okanagan)  has released its commemorative Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games sparkling wine called “Tribute”

Tribute Wine is the brain child of senior winemaker Mark Wendenberg who has also created Sumac Ridge’s Stellar’s Jay and Pinnacle. Offering fresh citrus aromas with zesty apple flavours on the palate, the Tribute wine exhibits excellent Chardonnay varietal character while offering exceptional quality. Sumac Ridge’s Tribute Sparkling wine has wide distribution and will be found at provincial/private liquor stores across the country from mid-September . It is priced at $30/750 ml. $1.25 will be donated directly to the Canadian Olympic team and the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic winter games from the sale of every bottle.

Wine lovers can taste Tribute(TM) on September 20, 2009 from 2pm - 5pm at the BCLDB’s 39th and Cambie Signature BC Liquor store. This event will feature winemaker Mark Wendenburg autographing the commemorative bottles, and Cellar Door Bistro chef Roger Planiden will offer bite-sized samples of his culinary creations.

 So, if you are coming to British Columbia for Vancouver 2010 olympics, don’t forget to celebrate with this wonderful wine.

Related Links:

British Columbia wineries

Okanagan Wineries

 The 2010 Olympic Winter Games will be staged in Vancouver and Whistler from February 12 to 28, 2010. Vancouver and Whistler will host the Paralympic Winter Games from March 12 to 21, 2010.

On March 12, 2010, a thousand of the world’s top winter sport Paralympic athletes  from more than 40 countries will gather in BC Place in downtown Vancouver for the indoor Opening Ceremony. Nine days later, the Games will draw to its official end in the Host Mountain Resort of Whistler in a unique outdoor amphitheatre designed especially for the two-hour Closing Ceremony. 

Did you hear that Vanoc has announced that a very special talented team of 15 Canadians with expertise in costumes, lighting, music, and stage direction will join the creative team tasked with orchestrating the magical and awe-inspiring moments celebrating the dramatic achievements of Paralympians at the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games. 

The Vancouver organizing committee spent 6 months in searching for these talented Canadian artisans and many of these artists are from British Columbia itself. This team includes:

Associate Director and Head Choreographer: Jocelyn Peden, Music Director: Paul Airey, Art Director: Daniel Planko, Production Director: Nik Von Schulmann, Headline Director: Shaw Saltzberg, Segment Director: Luca (Lazylegz) Patuelli, Visuals Director: Sean Nieuwenhuis, Costume Designer: Sheila White, Production and Lighting Designer: Robert Sondergaard, Interactive Visual Designer: Roger Parent, Interactive Visual Designer: Louis-Pierre Morin, Stage Designer: Mark Patterson, Host Broadcast Liaison: Tim Lewis, Associate Producer: Anna Bond, The Abilities Arts Festival, a Toronto based disability arts organization and forum for creative and artistic excellence.

These Canadians were chosen by ceremonies producer Patrick Roberge Productions. I am excited to see how the cermonies unfold. The search for volunteers for cermonies is still going on so if you have talent then get in touch with the authorities today.

For more information, visit: Vancouver 2010
 

If you are visiting Vancouver from overseas for the first time then don’t get overwhelmed by the things to do and places to visit. Check out our list below to see our favourite places on Vancouver Island:

1. Gordon Bay Provincial Park:

Gordon Bay provincial park located on the shores of Lake Cowichan, north of Duncan on Vancouver Island is absolutely gorgeous and great place for family camping. The lake is warm in the summer and hence great for swimming. Set in one of Vancouver Island’s sunniest valleys, this area boasts the highest average annual temperature in Canada. Other activities you can try here include: Fresh water fishing, Waterskiing and windsurfing, hiking and walking, birdwatching etc .

2. Tofino and Clayoquot Sound:

If you are keen on whale watching, sea kayaking and surfing then Tofino is your ultimate destination. Bring your surfboard and wet suit and have a fabulous time.

3. Parksville and Qualicum Beach: Parksville and Qualicum beach are popular with families interested in having a beach vacation. These oceanside communities are Canada’s Riviera. Parksville is also known for its beach festival and sculpture competition which is held here every year and is popular with tourists and locals alike.

4. Strathcona Park:

Strathcona Provincial Park is one of the oldest provincial park in British Columbia and is a must visit for tourists who enjoy rugged mountain wilderness, rivers, creeks and streams. Summers in Strathcona are pleasantly warm and snow fall can be expected on mountain slopes during November through March. Hiking or Backcamping are the best ways to discover Strathcona Park. Fishing is a very popular activity in the area. Butte Lake, the largest water body in the park, Della Falls -one of the largest water falls in Canada and Forbidden Plateau are most popular visitor -oriented areas.

5. Saltspring Island:

Salt Spring Island is located half way between Nanaimo and Victoria in British Columbia on the eastern side of Vancouver Island and is house for large number of artists, sculptors, artists, musicians and wild life like sheep and deer  which can be easily spotted on the Island.

If you get tired after exploring Vancouver city, then do visit these different parts of Vancouver Island to discover true Canadian beauty. 

Other related things:

Vancouver Island Accommodations

Discover Vancouver Island

People in British Columbia are quite health conscious and believe in an active lifestyle. They are always seeking ways to improve the quality of their lives.  No doubt, events like Body, Soul and Spirit Expo 2009 are a huge hit with BC residents and visitors. Originally Body, Soul and Spirit Expo was going to return to Vancouver after winter olympics 2010 because of expansion and renovation of Vancouver Convention Center but I guess response from BC residents changed it all.

Body, Soul and Spirit Expo 2009 will be held in Vancouver from October 23-25, 2009 at 999 Canada Place.  Everything related to healthy living whether it be ideas, alternate medicine, concepts, products will be featured at this year’s expo. The timings for the event are:

Friday, October 23rd 2009 from 3.00 pm to 10.00 pm

Saturday, October 24th 2009 from 10.00 am to 9.00 pm and

Sunday, October 25th 2009 from 11.00 am to 6.00 pm

The guests will also have a chance to attend various health related workshops, seminars and lectures during this event. So, don’t miss this event if you want to get some tips on healthy lifestyle in British Columbia. For more information, check out:

Body, Soul and Spirit Expo 2009