I'm going to Vancouver from Los Angeles

[goclark]

Can someone help me with a few things?

How much is a US $ worth there and should I exchange my money before I get to Vancouver?

Also, I'm going to a fancy party there with a Nautical theme.

I wanted to wear a great sailor's type hat for ladies.
Should I buy it in Los Angeles or in Vancouver?

Also, I think the July weather there is about 73 degrees, is it windy? Do I need a heavy coat,rain coat?

I've never been to Vancouver and I am so excited.

Any other tips would be appreciated.


Thanks for any tips!

[daleo]

1. Canadian and U.S. dollar are just about at parity

You can find currency rates here:

http://www.reportonbusiness.com/wheretofindit

You might be best off buying in the U.S. though, as prices can still be higher in Canada (smaller market, that sort of thing).

Vancouver is usually nice in July (in my experience), but an umbrella and/or raincoat is always a good idea.

It's a very attractive city. The transit system seems pretty good to me. If you have time, consider taking the ferry to Victoria (Vancouver Island) for a day.

[goclark]

2. Thanks so much ~

That really helps me.

We are going to get there two days before the Event so I will have some times.

Is Victoria a day trip?

:hug:

[daleo]

3. The ferry ride is about 90 minutes

And ferries go from early morning (maybe 7 am?) to fairly late in the evening (about 9 pm?). So, you could make it a day trip, if you don't mind spending a fair bit of time in the ferry. There are also float plane flights that go right to the inner harbor of Victoria. I have seen them take off and land - I don't know what they cost though.

The BC ferries website has exact times for sailing. Of course you have to get to and from the ferry, so you have to add that time in (either car, or bus).

Other possibilities for a couple of days:
- Stanley Park, English Bay, sea wall etc.
- Grouse Mountain skytram, hiking around that area.
- Whistler (2010 Olympics site)
- UBC, especially Museum of Anthropology
- Kitsalano area
- suspension bridge (Caplilano?, I don't know if I got the name right)
- Granville Island
- Riefel Bird Sanctuary (not sure about spelling)
- Steveston (touristy old fishing area)
- Maritime Museum

[goclark]

4. I'll print out this post so I can have options txs

[Spazito]

5. If you are staying in the downtown core...

strolling down Robson street is always fun in the early evening, lots of activity. Vancouver is very beautiful and I am sure you will have a great time!

[HEyHEY]

6. Average temp in july is about 86

Dollar is at parity. It will likely be sunny, but bring a light wind-breaker in case it rains.

[tuvor]

7. Take a ferry from the Aquatic Centre to Granville Island.

Quick, cheap, and the scenery is thoroughly enjoyable regardless of the time of day or the season.

That was my favourite way to commute to work when I lived in Vancouver, and one of the things I miss most since moving away.

http://www.granvilleislandferries.bc.ca/map.html

Have fun!

[TaffyMoon]

8. Really Off-topic

Dear Fellow Canucks

How the heck do I get a signature picture up on this site? Appreciate any help, and sorry to intrude on the thread, but I can't find an FAQ or a users forum thread.

[Spazito]

9. Hi TaffyMoon! Welcome to DU! Here is what you do to put a sig in...

Click on Options and then click on Edit your profile, scroll to the bottom where it says signature, your preferred pic needs to be a .gif, I believe, and cannot be bigger than a specified size.