I was pulling my suitcase up a hilly Vancouver street, when I was suddenly stopped by a bright light peeking up from behind a gap in a row of buildings.  The glass skyscrapers of downtown Vancouver were reflecting the warm orange hues of the setting sun and created a spectacular view.  The downtown panorama was only made more sublime by the buildings juxtaposition against a backdrop of gentle mountains.

But there is no allure of a place like that of its people and so I have to thank Serena and Kenley for making my trip to the city perfect. 

Over spicy Korean food, friends caught up on old memories and new dreams.  Serena and I also cycled around Stanley park, soaking in the beauty of a lazy Canadian afternoon.  

The trip completely changed my preconceptions of the city. My memories where of dull shopping malls and monotonous suburban houses, but I am now amazed by the vibrancy of the streets and its people. Yet the people never fail to maintain a sense of calm about their way of life and the city is enveloped by a freshness that is found wanting in most urban cities.