Vancouver Day 1 - Vancouver Island Whale Watching with Ocean EcoVentures

I have to say that taking the BC Ferry from Vancouver to Vancouver Island was an awesome experience. We all made sure to wake up early to get the most out of our time on the island. Before we did our travel research (thanks Mel!), I had NO idea that Vancouver Island was so huge! There were so many things we wanted to do but they were on the West Coast, including the Pacific Rim National Park (Kaiju watching tours anyone?) and would it would have taken another full day of travel. We decided to stick with whale watching at Ocean Eco-Ventures, which Mel found through Trip Advisor.

The view from Horseshoe Bay (the small town that we departed from) before we took off  were absolutely breathtaking.

The BC Ferry itself was much different (read: nicer) than I had expected. They had both indoor and outdoor waiting areas, a mini food court, a convenience/gift shop, and several nooks with tables and outlets for those people who were commuting and wanted to get some work in. We managed to stay outside for a bit, until the ferry picked up speed and the wind started bite.

We arrived in Nanaimo and had to head south to Cowichan Bay where Ocean Eco-Ventures is located. It was my and Mel's ultimate goal to recreate the end scene from Free Willy, where the orca is jumping over the kid. We definitely started practicing our "YES!" fist pumps.

I don't even care that I look like a prison inmate from Siberia (or an orange Stay-Puf marshmallow man?). I was SO incredibly grateful for that suit once we were out in the open waters. It was so windy that I was not showing any part of my body, unless it was my hand to take pictures. 

Even though the whales were at a distance, it was an INCREDIBLE experience. We didn't have any breaches or general frolicking by the whales that we encountered, and I can't explain it, but it was surreal to know that these giant, amazing creatures were lurking beneath the surface.

"Rock Sausages", according to our guide.

Sea-Lion bro straight chillin' on his bachelor pad.

Chris saw these two boats and exclaimed -"Look, the good guys are chasing the bad guys!" Haha. On point Chris, on point.

After the tour was over, we all decided that FOOD and BEER were in order. Our guide, Captain Simon, recommended the Cowichan Bay Pub which was a few doors down. The special that day was none other than fish-and-chips so it was fish for everyone with a round of beers. Also, I must have looked cold because the waiter offered me a blanket! (So awesome.)

It also didn't hurt that they had an amazing view from the patio.

After dinner we set off, tired and happy, to make one of the last ferries. I am a creepster, but this was so adorable, I couldn't help myself.

Vancouver Island I will return!

Vancouver Day 1 - Vancouver Island Whale Watching with Ocean EcoVentures

Headed North - Seattle to Vancouver

Silliness in the car after too much fresh juice (BLOOD!) and coffee, crossing the border, our first glimpse of the never-ending Stanley Park, and some incredible views. (Also, if you're wondering where Matt's sweet +1 speed t-shirt came from- and I know you are- check out www.geekedoutfitness.com/shop)/endshamelessplug

Take me back!!!

Headed North - Seattle to Vancouver

Seattle Day 2 - Hiking at Twin Falls Park

After spending a day in the city, it was time to head out into the wilderness. The drive to Twin Falls was everything my day-dreaming heart could have every wanted. Grey skies, mist on the mountains, lush greenery, and the dwarven song from The Hobbit on repeat (much to the other passengers chagrin I'm sure) (Love this version).

The landscape was so otherworldly, I found myself lost in thought more than once. I can definitely see why so many Sci Fi/Fantasy shows are filmed here. I took way too many photos this trip, so I thought I would share with you a small selection.

 

BONUS ROUND (or: Sorry, not sorry)

Yes. A pit stop at Top Pot doughnuts on the way back into town. It was everything I hoped it would be and MORE. Sometimes you have to live a little.

Seattle Day 2 - Hiking at Twin Falls Park

Seattle Day 1 - Pike Place Market, Space Needle, and the EMP Museum

Back in May, Chris and I went on a week long trip to the Pacific-Northwest with two of our great friends, Matt and and Mel. We flew into Seattle and spent a few days touring the city and hiking the misty mountains before driving across the border to Vancouver, Canada. 

These next few blogs will be photo highlights of the best bits of our trip. Prepare yourself for lots of green and grey! First up- Seattle, WA. 

PIKE PLACE MARKET

The institution. We were even provided with the most stereotypical Seattle weather you could ever want.

 Chris and I and an eternal grey sky/mist.

The seafood was so fresh! Both Chris and I tried the shrimp and it was delicious.

 The colors in this place were so vibrant! It was hard to know where to rest your eyes, between all of the colorful fruit, veg, and flowers. 

The O.G. Starbucks. I poked my head inside, but it was WAY too crowded to get a drink.

SPACE NEEDLE

 After Pike Place, we walked to the Space Needle. It was SUPER windy, but the views were worth it.

Another Seattle skyline.

EMP MUSEUM

We didn't know what to expect at the EMP Museum. We lucked out though, because on display at the time (and apparently it's still there for anyone headed to Seattle) was the "Fantasy: Worlds of Myth and Legend" and "Icons of Science Fiction"exhibits! (Read more about the exhibits here and here.) There were lots of cool weapons, costumes, and props from some of my favorite movies and TV shows.

The rest of the museum is a tribute to different rock icons.

 Here there be dragons. 

The trouble with tribbles.

EX-TER-MINATE

 

You remind me of the babe...

Westeros has a new leader. It is known...

Wandering the city was SO fun, and it was definitely interesting to feel the difference in attitude and atmosphere between DC and Seattle. Seattle was a lot more laid back and less frenetic and rushed. I could totally see myself living there.

Next up: Seattle Day 2 - Hiking at Twin Falls Park (or: SO MUCH GREEN or: JURASSIC PARK) Stay tuned!

Seattle Day 1 - Pike Place Market, Space Needle, and the EMP Museum