Jennie G. - Forgot to tell you that their is a fantastic bead shop on Main Street between 27th and 28th called Bead Freaks. She has beads from all over the world. Mom travels all over the world buying beads and the daughter runs the shop. Anyone who likes beads will like this place. Take the Main Street bus south from the Main Street sky train station. One fare will get you there ($2.25) and it will take 40 minutes (or less)from downtown Vancouver.

I also want to remind you to get up and walk around on your long flight. Do not fall asleep or remain in one position for too long. Remember to drink lots of water and wiggle your toes. Keep the circulation going so you don't end up with a blood clot (otherwise known as deep vein thrombosis).

I'd invite you over but that is an extremely busy time of the year for me. I'll be packing it up at work and getting things ready for an art exhibit on the island. I'm sure you will have just as much fun wandering around on your own. Don't forget to visit Granville Island (a great seaside market and there is a bead shop there, too). You can take a water taxi from downtown.

Another great place is, of course, Stanley Park. Take a walk on the seawall.

Do you like beautiful gardens? Try Dr. Sun Yat Sen (an oasis in the heart of Chinatown)or Van Dusen Gardens (Oak street). I would avoid Cambie Street - major construction going on for the new sky train line and stations.

If you want a day trip, there's a train going to Whistler Mt. daily.

I hope you have fun and that the sun will shine for you. We put up with gallons of rain because it is so worth it when the sun shines. This is a beautiful city (as far as cities go).