Page 37 - MASALA Magazine Vol.15 Issue 7 | October - November 2024

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:

I acknowledge and respect the traditional
territories of the Indigenous Peoples I
traversed. In Vancouver, I honour the unceded
territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and
Tsleil-Waututh Nations. Granville Island
lies within the traditional lands of the Coast
Salish Peoples, while White Rock is situated
on the ancestral territory of the Semiahmoo
First Nation. I recognise the stewardship of
the Squamish Nation; in Salmon Arm, I
acknowledge the Secwepemc Nation; and
in Kelowna, I honour the Syilx (Okanagan)
Nation. On Vancouver Island, I respect the
w
lands of the L∂Ќ ∂nŋ∂n (Songhees and
Esquimalt) Peoples and the WSÁNEĆ
Peoples, whose historical relationships with
the land continue to this day.

VANCOUVER: The Best of Both Worlds

Nestled between the mountains and the
Pacific Ocean, Vancouver offers a synergistic
blend of urban life and breathtaking natural
beauty. Exploring the city is an adventure in
it of itself. As you wander, keep an eye out for
hidden gems like the jewellery cart outside
CF Pacific Centre, where you can snag
rings for as little as CAD 3. One memorable
day, I stumbled upon an unexpected dance
competition right next to the main metro
station, turning an ordinary Tuesday into
a Step-Up (2006) fan’s dream.
From the heart of the city, it’s just a short
journey to Kitsilano Beach, where the lively QUEEN ELIZABETH PARK
energy of the city continues by the ocean.
Queen Elizabeth Park – the prettiest park
KITSILANO BEACH in the city – is perched atop a hill, boasting
a plethora of carefully-kept trees and vibrant
Often dubbed Vancouver’s most social flowers. The Bloedel Conservatory offers
beach, the lively energy of Kitsilano Beach a tropical escape with exotic flora and
enveloped me. Here, volleyball courts fauna. Don’t miss the panoramic views of
buzzed with friendly competition, while the Vancouver’s skyline from the park’s summit,
air was filled with the smell of tanning oil, perfect for capturing photos or enjoying a
sea spray, and the sounds of laughter. Across quiet moment of reflection.
from the beach, calisthenics enthusiasts
showcased impressive moves like the one- STANLEY PARK LYNN CANYON
arm pull-up and muscle-ups. It’s a place
where locals and visitors alike gather, Known as Vancouver’s green oasis, Stanley For a quieter but equally-stunning alternative
basking in the joy of summer. Park is just steps from the buzzing to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, Lynn
downtown area. Biking around the seawall Canyon is a must-visit. Located across the
GRANVILLE ISLAND is an absolute must, with scenic views of Lions Gate Bridge in North Vancouver,
the Pacific Ocean and towering mountains this park offers forested trails, waterfalls,
One of Vancouver’s highlights is Granville going with you the entire way. I recommend and natural swimming pools that make it
Island, easily accessible via the Aquabus venturing further into the park’s interior a perfect spot for adventure seekers. One
ferry for just CAD 5. The bustling to explore its more secluded trails, where highlight is the 80-Foot Pool, where crystal-
atmosphere of the Public Market is a treat, you’ll find a blend of untouched forest and clear waters plunge into the canyon below,
highlighting local vendors and tasty treats hidden gardens. Stanley Park is also home creating a refreshing spot to take a dip after
like honey mustard pickles and lemon tarts. to a rich array of wildlife, including the a long hike. However, be cautious: the water
With sunny views of the city and benches famous herons that make their nests in the is extremely cold, and the area around the
to relax on, it is a terrific spot to unwind. park’s trees. pools can be slippery and dangerous.

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