Our 33-day Canada Trip Summary

Our travels are never simple-if we’re going somewhere, it has to be "Amazing Race" levels of adventure. So when we went to Canada for Meg’s education, naturally, we packed in as many destinations as possible beyond our original itinerary.
We kicked off the journey with a detour to Japan, where we explored the Tokyo Yanaka Shopping Street and indulged in treats from the famous "I’m donut?". From there, it was off to Canada, landing at YVR airport in Vancouver. And upon arriving at the YVR airport in Canada, we immediately crossed the border into the U.S.-by taxi! We spent two nights in Washington with my niece, exploring iconic spots like Pike Place Market and savoring clam chowder at the Athenian restaurant, famous for a scene from Sleepless in Seattle (I’m a huge Meg Ryan fan-my eldest is even named after her!). Of course, we also checked out the Space Needle and the Museum of Pop Culture before heading back to Canada.
In Kelowna, we stayed with friends (and their adorable dog, Truffle) and took full advantage of the local scene, visiting wineries, cozy coffee shops, and even driving up to the Sicamous Lookout for sweeping views of British Columbia. Next, we ventured to Banff's breathtaking Lake Louise and met friends in nearby Canmore, Alberta for a delightful brunch.
Back in Kelowna, Meg took one last swim of the summer before we indulged in some thrift-shopping. The following day, we headed to Vancouver to reconnect with friends in Whistler and Krause Farms. We also took a trip to the University of British Columbia (UBC), where Meg will soon be studying, and spent time exploring downtown Vancouver.
Our journey wasn’t over yet. We hopped on a ferry to Victoria, this time with both my niece and cousin in tow. There, we toured the Parliament Buildings and wandered through the lush Butchart Gardens. Afterward, it was back to Vancouver for a meet-up with more friends, whose daughter will also be attending UBC. We explored Granville Island and checked out Emily Carr University for our youngest daughter, sparking new ideas for her future.
Soon, it was time for my wife and youngest daughter to return to Manila-school was calling, though typhoons and class suspensions bought them some extra time. Meanwhile, Meg and I stayed in the Dunbar area, prepping her for dorm life with shopping trips to IKEA, Winners, London Drugs, and Best Buy. We even managed to set up her own bank account at the university.
During my last few days, I stayed with friends in Richmond and made frequent visits to Meg before heading back to Manila myself. What a whirlwind trip-packed with memories, miles, and so much anticipation for the exciting chapter ahead for Meg.