Chapter 5

Chapter 5

 

Today was a really good day. I decided to take the bike for a daytrip around Vancouver to get familiar with her handling. I loaded some panniers and rode out to get a feel for the greater Vancouver area. Headed into downtown, because Vancouver does not have ring roads. Everything goes everywhere. It was quite complicated till you get used to the way they show the street names. 

Briefly, if you see a street name above your head it’s not referring to the street you are on. Instead, it is the name of the cross street. Did you get that? Well I kept forgetting and it leads to total confusion when you forget... This morning, after cycling about 10 miles I found myself back where I started. But, I’ve got the hang of it now.

It’s a beautiful city. A city where the walker and cyclist and roller blader are treated like equals with the motorist. It was refreshing to experience that.

Got into Stanley Park on the edge of town and it was a pleasure cycling the paths around it. Bit like Phoenix park with stunning views and sunshine. I met some people who, again were interested in what I was doing and planning. Canadians are always interested. Met a lady at the Totem Poles who was with a group, including her husband. She was so interested in me that I think her husband wasn’t to impressed. He eventually had to drag her away. I was grateful for that.

 

 

Back to the city and out again to the coast. More spectacular scenery.  I  need to keep your wits about me as the traffic gets heavier as the day goes on. Traffic builds in the afternoon and they don’t be long letting you know if you are in the way. They will tolerate you, to a point. You just got to take your place on the road and hang on tight. This I learned today. Your welcome to Vancouver, yes. But keep your distance.

Back to the hotel. Get packed. Sort out what  goes where in the pannier bags. This is where I need to get really tidy. Put stuff were I know I can get it if I need it without pulling everything apart. Not easy for me. I hit on this idea to make a list of what is in each pannier and put it on the top of the bag. Like all my great tidy ideas it lasted till evening of the first day.

Head south tomorrow. More fun to come.

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