First Day in Whistler

Vancouver is amazing. For those who haven't been, its breathtaking. We flew in right beside UBC so I was able to check out the campus by air... right on the water, with the endowment lands behind it and mountains in the distance.

I arrived yesterday afternoon, after a four hour flight. I gained three hours in flight, which sounds great, but when everyone wants to go drinking at midnight it is 3 am at home and I was wrecked.

Matt and his Irish friend, who's name escapes me at the moment, came to the airport to pick me up. We went for dinner at the Red Robin, a second floor burger and cocktail place that was laid back and friendly. Only glass separated the table from the street below and downtown, the harbour, and the mountains beyond. Everywhere we went in Vancouver, it seemed you were only seconds away from another glimpse of the ocean, harbour, or the mountains. Every island is like a small mountain dropped into the sea, and rises sharply and tree covered from the depths.

The drive from Vancouver to Whistler, which winds along the coast, between the mountains and the bay, is nothing short of spectacular- especially for an east coast girl who's never seen real mountains. I can't wait to get out here and get kayaking... there's so many sheltered water and inland bays to explore.

Staying here with Matt reminds me of first year residence. He's in the staff housing, which is a long and low appartment complex full of young people. This morning, people who don't live here are coming in and out, lounging on the couch, listening to music and watching the tube. I've met at least four people from Peterborough; Matt's roomate and a bunch of his friends all went to Adam Scott. Small world.

Well, I'd better sign off now. I left the apartment to go wandering, which took me for a hike down the winding, switch-back road down the hill to the village and I should probably get back. My good old internet time at this cafe is running low as well.

Talk to you all soon!

Sarah