A wonderful day in Vancouver, looking so much brighter without jet lag. We explored the big name sights today, Capilano Suspension Bridge, Stanley Park, and Gastown. All energetic and interesting while sweltering in their heatwave 30C. North America does not do heat very well.

The inside of the Vancouver Library.

Capilano, our challenge and we did the lot.

Collette, Nicky and Peter on the suspension bridge.

The suspension bridge was a feat in itself. It sways and bounces an awful lot with heaps of people taking photos and selfies and slowing progress. A special commendation to Collette who hates heights and swaying bridges with a passion but courageously tackled all on offer today.

We hit the park at 9 am and it was very busy but 10 times worse by the time we left. After the bridge comes the treetops walk.

Then the gorge walk which takes you about a quarter of the way down. A very beautiful walk in the forest.

The wishing rock.

Owl and Kestrel, hunters of the forest.

Back over the bridge and on to the cliff walk. The path is 1 person wide and suspended very high above the canyon. Spectacular feeling among the treetops.

Yes, out there.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a must do in Vancouver. Almost as good though is to hire bikes for a ride around Stanley Park. This is a picturesque headland that is 9km around and offers spectacular water views of Vancouver.

Looking back at the CBD.

Less work than bikes but very smelly.

Just for the kids at a water park.

Things were going swimmingly on the bikes. Then we lost Peter. After a significant search we decided he must have gone ahead so we finished the ride with more haste than anticipated and found him eventually waiting at the turn off. Much relieved we gave the bikes back and headed home (via the obligatory retail therapy).

Vancouver beach, complete with life guard.

A wee rest and then down to Gastown for dinner and a look at the steam clock. This is an old part of town named after Gassy Jack, a local publican and very long winded storyteller. Now it is full of restaurants, bars and shops and is the first time we have felt a buzz in Vancouver.

Gassy Jack

The Local

The steam clock blows every quarter hour.

Waited around for the steam clock to blow and it is an interesting and impressive piece of engineering. But one must eat after such a busy day so the Black Frog was chosen. Best and most interesting food so far, but it is only day 2.

The Black Frog.

Tomorrow we pick up a car and catch the ferry to Victoria. Till then.