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Friday Around

the Planet

August 19, 2022

"Where to next?"

This is usually answered by "what's next on my bucket list?" There are so many places to see and limited time and money - can I afford to revisit places I've already been?

But actually, can I afford not to?

I'm just back from Vancouver, the second time in five years that I've spent my long vacation exploring the city and its beautiful surroundings. I mingled with crowds enjoying fireworks and Pride festivals for the first time since the pandemic, a city returning to joyful celebrations.

Vancouver felt comfortingly familiar and electrifyingly new. It was a feeling mirrored by meeting friends separated by the entire breadth of Canada and the Atlantic for too long. In reconnecting with them, I also found a greater understanding of the place they chose as home.

It can be tempting to preserve a perfect memory of your travels but why deny yourself the pleasure of returning to a place you love? It might be time to find out how much your favorite destination has changed - and how much you've changed with it.

AnneMarie McCarthy | Senior Editor

Ideas for a last-minute Labor Day weekend getaway

There's still time to book a trip

When you're just back from a big vacation, the first thing you do is plan something else, right? A lot of my US colleagues are looking forward to their Labor Day holiday to get them over the end-of-summer blues.

From Vancouver views to Newfoundland's wild wonders

I was lucky enough to get to Whistler and Salt Spring Island during my Vancouver trip but B.C.'s epic scenery has me dreaming about seeing more of Canada's mountains, parks and glaciers. I love writer Brendan Sainsbury's piece on how to see the best of Canada on four wheels.

Why I love Vancouver's West End

If you only have a couple of days to spend in Vancouver, consider staying in the West End neighborhood to get a feel for living in the city. It's within easy reach of some of the city's big-hitter attractions but is a draw all on its own.

Within striking distance of English Bay and a handful of beaches, it's the gateway to Stanley Park as well as home to Davie Village, the LGBTIQ+ heart of the city. Off the main streets, you'll find charming houses with blooming gardens nestled between high rises from different eras. It's easy to see why it's regularly voted one of the most desirable neighborhoods to live in.

For the perfect West End day, grab coffee from Melriches on Davie Street (or a Caesar from Score if you're feeling adventurous). Rent bikes to cycle around Stanley Park and its sea wall, stopping at the Lost Lagoon, Stanley Park Brewing and one of the beaches for a swim. In the evening, grab sushi or ramen and bring it to Third Beach to watch the sun go down.

More travel news you can use

How to prepare yourself for Burning Man

I still haven't made it to Burning Man and I'm unashamedly envious of everyone going to the festival this year. Here's some advice from a veteran burner on what to expect. Bonus, we also have this comprehensive guide for first-timers.

Bhutan's new sky-high tourist fees, explained

With high daily costs and limited tourist numbers, Bhutan is a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Joe Bindloss breaks down the new increase and how the country's high-value, low-impact tourism benefits its people and preserves its landscapes in this fascinating read.

How to travel France by canal

Even the most familiar destinations can surprise you if you travel by water. Writer Alexis Averbuck's guide will have you thinking about your next French trip in a whole new light. Whether it's renting your very own houseboat or jumping on a river cruise, there's a recommendation for everyone.