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Calgary in Winter: Watching the Immigrant Life Take Hold on the Prairies
Beyond the scenic awe of Banff lies Calgary, a city of sprawl, snow, and permanence. Through a weekend reunion with two Filipino families—the settled “Veterans” and the ambitious “Strivers”—we witness the entire immigrant lifecycle unfold in real time, revealing how life truly takes root on the frozen Canadian prairies.
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Banff National Park in Winter: Celebrating a Graduation in the Rockies
Is a winter road trip to Banff worth the cold? Our family embarks on an adventure from Calgary to the Canadian Rockies in December to celebrate my brother’s graduation. From frozen Lake Louise to off-season hotel deals, we enjoy Banff’s snowy magic, survive the chill, and capture the perfect “aura photos”.
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Peace Arch Park: We Planned a Vancouver “Farewell” Trip—And Ended Up at the U.S. Border
A Vancouver day trip takes us to the Peace Arch, a monument symbolizing peace between Canada and the U.S.. But this leads us to a tense detour into U.S. border control. Between bureaucratic checks and family reflections, the visit becomes a bittersweet reminder of connection, borders, and the threads that tie us together.
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Victoria, BC: A Day Trip of Memories and Unexpected Reunion
Our family takes a day trip from Vancouver to Victoria, BC, visiting Fisherman’s Wharf, the Fairmont Empress, and Mile Zero. Along the way, we enjoy lunch among colorful floating homes, revisit nostalgic landmarks, and share an unexpected reunion with an old friend. The day captures the simple joys of traveling together.
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Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish: Summit Views and Suspension Bridge Experience
The Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish, BC, features breathtaking viewing decks and the swaying Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge. One weekend afternoon, our family drives there to see panoramic views of Howe Sound and warm up at the Summit Café. It’s an accessible alpine adventure along the Sea to Sky Highway.
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Whistler: A Family Morning of Alpine Beauty and Winter Olympics Legacy
We embark on a family-friendly morning trip to Whistler Olympic from Vancouver one weekend. We explore the Olympic Rings, pedestrian paths, and Alpine scenery while soaking in the legacy of the 2010 Winter Games.
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Merry & Bright at Martini Town: A Festive Winter Wonderland in Langley Township, BC
On a weekend evening, we experience the magic of Martini Town’s “Merry and Bright” event in Langley Township, BC. We stroll festive streets, enjoy artificial snow, live performances, and seasonal treats. This holiday attraction blends playful kitsch with genuine cheer.
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Capilano Suspension Bridge Canyon Lights: A Magical Vancouver Holiday Experience
On a weekend evening, we experience the enchantment of Vancouver’s Capilano Suspension Bridge during Canyon Lights—walking illuminated trails, admiring sparkling colorful holiday lights, and cozying up by the fire at the souvenir shop. It’s a magical winter evening for families, couples, or anyone seeking festive seasonal charm in North Vancouver.
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Vancouver Christmas Market: A European Holiday Magic in the Waterfront
The Vancouver Christmas Market turns Jack Poole Plaza into a bright, European-style winter village filled with lights, music, German food, and festive holiday traditions. We visit it on a cold December evening, experiencing a warm holiday atmosphere by the waterfront.
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In Vancouver, My Brother Finally Found His Place
My brother Joseph has built his life in Vancouver, navigating Granville Island, Stanley Park, and city streets with ease. On a visit for his graduation ceremony, we see how he has woven himself into urban Canada, reflecting a life rooted in the city’s unique mix of culture and nature.
The Tourist Gaze
A Traveling Outsider Looking In
The Tourist Gaze 