Alaska: Day 2 (06-25-10)

We left Bellingham in the morning and drove north until crossing the Canadian border. Knowing that we wouldn't have much time in Vancouver, we drove through downtown and visited several of the neighborhoods surrounding the city. One "must see" we had heard about was an area called "Granville Island." After a few twists and turns, we finally found it tucked away under the Cambie Street Bridge.

We parked the car and wondered through the Granville Island Public Market, which turned out to be a feast for the senses. People hustled and busled through the bright covered stalls, where local vendors were selling their wares. The savory smells of international food offerings were enough to make anyone's mouth water.

Lunch was scrumptious and we did a little shopping before leaving Vancouver. It was a quick trip but we were glad we got to see some of the city before we drove out to catch the ferry to Victoria, Canada.

We drove onto the ferry and walked to the back of the boat for a beautiful hour and a half ride to Victoria. Even though it was a little chilly on the deck, the views made standing outside worth every minute. We floated between the difference islands with each view seemingly more beautiful than the last. At one point, we even saw a group of whales swimming off the port side.

The ferry wove through small islands off the Canadian coast with gorgeous views on both sides of the boat.

This lighthouse was so picturesque...

Once we got to Victoria, we drove over to the Butchart Gardens, one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. Originally a barren limestone quarry, a woman named Jennie Butchart began using her passion for gardening to transform the area into a floral wonderland. From the sunken garden to the Japanese garden, every pathled to a new discovery of beautiful colors and floral masterpieces. It was absolutely gorgeous.

It was like a fairytale

Mom in front of the first of many totem poles we saw on our trip.

The most beautiful rose garden you have ever seen...

The Sunken Garden was my favorite...

When we finished touring the gardens, we drove back to the ferry station and took the same ferry back to Vancouver. The way back was even colder than the first trip so we stayed inside after enjoying the magnificent sunset.

A fishing boat floating in the serene bay...

Adam and I...

The moon looked huge as it rose from behind the islands...

Joey and Anne Marie enjoying the sunset...

The colors in the sky seemed to change every couple of minutes...

The sunset reflecting off the ship...

We had dinner on the ferry before disembarking and driving back to Bellingham for the night. It was after one in the morning when we arrived so everyone was exhausted and ready for bed!