The Basics

Looking for a hotel that offers hospitality excellence and a variety of added luxuries?

The Georgian Court Hotel offers all types of travelers the perfect escape within the vibrant city of Vancouver, British Columbia.

This 180-room boutique hotel is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World TM group and offers accommodations in the form of  deluxe guest rooms, a female-friendly Orchid floor, spacious suites and luxury penthouses.

The Georgian Court Hotel is the only downtown Vancouver boutique hotel that is close to the famous BC Place Stadium and Rogers Arena  (formerly GM Place) where the Vancouver Canucks hold their home games and where a variety of concerts are held.

The Orchid Floor was introduced in 2009 and is a special bonus for female travelers visiting the bright city lights of Vancouver. The Georgian Court Hotel is pleased to offer female guests with everything they need while traveling such as yoga mats and flat irons, as well as ease any travel anxiety during their stay.

Business travelers can utilize any of the four meeting rooms for meetings, banquets, business luncheons and more. If guests need to conduct any business during their stay they have full access to a 24-hour business centre, complimentary wireless internet, cordless speaker phones and a complimentary downtown drop off shuttle service.

Looking for fine dining but want to stay close to your hotel? With convenience and tasty Italian cuisine in mind, the Georgian Court Hotel offers its guests the opportunity to dine at their on-site restaurant, Frankie’s Italian Kitchen & Bar where they can indulge in budget-friendly, mouth-watering authentic Italian dishes. Samples menu items such as the Thyme Crusted Halibut and Seafood Linguine (I tried both and they were delicious!) or fabulous Italian pizzas. At Frankie’s Italian Kitchen, it’s all about friends.

Three Highlights that Make This Hotel Unique

• The Orchid Floor. This hotels has 18 rooms that offer extra amenities for female travelers such as upgraded Aveda products, flat irons, skirt hangers, yoga mats, curling irons and ladies-only emergency kits.
• Convenience.  The hotel is close to all major Vancouver attractions and venues such as Rogers Arena, Stanley Park, Science World, Gastown, trendy Yaletown, Pacific Centre Mall, cruise ship terminals, Robson Street shopping, Vancouver entertainment district and more.
• Frankie’s Italian Kitchen. This restaurant is a fantastic touch to this ‘Small Luxury Hotel’ and offers guests fine dining within the property and a colourful menu including scrumptious pasta and seafood dishes. (Don’t miss out on their fantastic tiramisu dessert!)

Room Amenities Provided by The Georgian Court Hotel Include:

• Central air conditioning
• Room service
• Ladies-emergency kits (Only in the Orchid Rooms)
• Morning newspaper (Complimentary)
• 220 thread-count percale sheets
• Hypo-allergenic duvets & pillows
• Mini-fridge
• Opening windows
• 37″ Flat screen TVs
• Pay per view movies (Fee)
• Coffee and tea maker with a selection of teas and coffee grinds
• Dual – line cordless phone
• Private voice mail
• Hairdryer
• Ironing board & iron
• Complimentary wired & wireless high-speed Internet
• Bathrobe and slippers
• Complimentary local calls
• Complimentary in-room safe
• Seattle’s Best Coffee served with in room coffee service
• Complimentary bottled water
• Pet-friendly options

The Georgian Court Hotel’s Facilities Include:

• Business center
• Fitness center
• Steam room and whirlpool
• Complimentary downtown shuttle service
• Pet-friendly options
• In-room spa services (on request – minimum 24 hr notice required)
• Secure underground parking
• Complimentary Bike rentals
• Dry cleaning service
• Laundry service
• Umbrella service
• And more!

My Personal Experience

While it was a short visit, I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at the Georgian Court Hotel. This unique small luxury hotel is spotless, cozy and convenient. Everything I required during a downtown Vancouver stay was available to me and the Orchid Floor was a nice touch for woman traveling together or solo.  When I arrived the front desk staff were pleasant and extremely friendly, as well as knowledgeable about nearby venues and shops.  Little extras in the room were fantastic such as ear plugs, Aveda products and a flat iron for us ladies who forget to grab it when running to catch a flight or taxi. I spent some time in the steam room and whirlpool and also had a hearty work out in the fitness facility. The fitness facilities had most of what a regular gym goer would need such as free weights, a universal machine and cardio machines such as a bike, stair master, treadmill and elliptical.  There was also water and towels available and a box filled with yoga necessities.  Our Deluxe Double guest room was clean and the beds were comfortable. I especially loved the soft pillows which you could just sink into and relax.

Our dining experience at Frankie’s Italian Kitchen was superb and our enthusiastic server Jerry was extremely hospitable and happy to share his knowledge on  all of the dishes. We tried the Prosciutto Wrapped Scallops which we loved (just wish there were more on the plate!) and the Funghi pizza which included cremini mushrooms, caramelized onions, mozzarella cheese and asiago sauce. As I love dishes that offer more heat, I would of preferred a little more spice on the pizza, but you can ask for chili flakes which give just enough of the spice you desire.

For our mains we shared the Seafood Linguine which was delicious and the delectable Thyme Crusted Halibut which was definitely my favourite.  Any seafood lover will fall in love with this dish! For dessert, I ordered the Dessert Trio which was comprised of a decadent piece of cheesecake, tiramisu and chocolate ice cream treat. I was very happy with my experience at this dining venue and will return with some friends in the near future.

My Final Thoughts

The Georgian Court Hotel is ideal for all types of travelers whether guests are visiting Vancouver on business or for pleasure. It is close to everything the city has to offer and its on-site restaurant is the perfect addition to a hotel stay at this Small Luxury Hotel of the World.

* A special thank you to Constance in the Marketing  and Sales Department for arranging this visit and our server Jerry in Frankie’s Restaurant for offering all of his knowledge and recommendations, as well as his outstanding enthusiasm.

Where?

The Georgian Court Hotel

773 Beatty Street

Vancouver, BC V6B 2M4

Tel: 604-682-5555

Toll Free: 1-800-663-1155

Website: www.GeorgianCourt.com

Twitter: twitter.com/georgiancourtht
Facebook: facebook.com/GeorgianCourtHotel

The Basics

The Dirty Apron Cooking school is one of Vancouver’s top places to cook, dine and turn the heat up. This venue is the ideal place for anyone of any type of cooking level to explore and enhance their culinary skills.  The owners, former Chambar Sous Chef David Robertson and his wife Sara, have been passionate about culinary delights and dishes for years and David has an extensive amount of experience in classic French cuisine. David also teaches most of the classes held at the Dirty Apron and there are some special classes that are taught by celebrity Chef’s and other culinary pros like Vikram Vij throughout the year.

Students at the Dirty Apron Cooking School learn basic cooking skills and put them to use while creating popular mouth-watering cuisines such as Italian, Thai or Hawaiian. Students can partake in 2 1/2 hour hands-on classes, 4 hour hands-on classes, educational tasting classes and they can also join the gourmet boot camp.

Even though the thought of your kid or teen working with kitchen knives may disturb you, kids and teens can also learn how to cook under the supervision of a teacher.  If you are looking for teenager-friendly camp programs for the summer, why not enrol your teen in the Summer Teen Cooking Camp where they can learn basic cooking techniques and knife skills, as well as a few of the Dirty Apron’s signature dishes. Looking to encourage more team work in the work place? Try out the Dirty Apron’s teambuilding class or the corporate/private hands-on 4 hour class. Your employees will learn to work together to create culinary masterpieces.

When students take part in the cooking classes at the Dirty Apron, they use only the best when it comes to cookware. The Dirty Apron’s partnerships with Sub Zero Fridges, Wolf Ranges, All Clad Cookware and Wusthof  Knives has made it all possible. The Dirty Apron also has a delicatessen that offers the public a scrumptious menu during the day, catering services, gifts for that food lover in your life and group events.

Three Highlights That Make This Experience Unique

• There are a number of classes to choose from including gastronomic inspirations from Italy, Thailand, France, Hawaii, Spain and more.
• The Dirty Apron offers classes that focus directly on seafood, meat, vegetarian dishes, grilling and more.
• Perfect for a date night! The Dirty Apron has a class called ‘It takes Two’ which is just for couples and can be a great way to break the ice or celebrate an anniversary.

Classes Provided by The Dirty Apron Cooking School Include

• The Butcher, The Baker, The Wine & Cheese Maker: A Night of Cooking and more
•  Ocean Fling: The Ultimate Seafood Class
• Meat Eaters Unite: The Meat Class
• Ooh La La: The French Class
• La Cucina Toscana: Tasting Tuscany
• BC Dine and Vine: A Celebration of Local Flavours
• Mamma Mia! The Italian Class
• The Brunch Bunch
• San Sebastian Tapas: Small Plates from Spain’s Birthplace of the Tapa
• Ocean Potion: The Seafood Class
• Sea to Sky: Ocean Deep and Mountain High
• Foodie Favourites: Crafting Decadence
• Hawaiian Nights: A Culinary Tour of the Islands
• Crabs in the Bucket: A Three Course Crustacean Tasting Menu
• It Takes Two: A Class for Couples
• Viva La Vegetarian: The Art of Vegetarian Cooking
• Singles in the City: Food Lovers Unite! (for gentlemen)
• Singles in the City: Food Lovers Unite! (for ladies)
• On the Bone: Braise, Roast and Grill
• Get Your Grill On: The Ultimate Grilling Class
• Guest Chef: Vikram Vij
• The First Step: The Knife Skills Class
• No Place Like Home: The Uniquely West Coast
• And more!

Tips for Visitors: Some Things To Know Before You Go
If you are going for a 4 hour class at the Dirty Apron, make sure you have a snack beforehand. While the Dirty Apron is hospitable with some small treats and drinks before you start the cooking class and during, you might need a little more for energy as you won’t be eating your first course for awhile. Don’t forget to take your camera so you can capture each culinary masterpiece you create before you gobble it up! Wear comfortable shoes as you will be standing for certain periods of time while cooking.

Our Experience at the Dirty Apron Cooking School

My sister Samantha and I were invited to try out the Mamma Mia Italian class which was so much fun. When we first arrived at the Dirty Apron Cooking School we were greeted with a warm welcome and some light snacks, as well as a glass of bubbly.  We had 18 people in our group and everyone seemed eager to get into the kitchen and start cooking Italian dishes. After our snack of humus, olives and bread we moved to the main kitchen and demo area.

Our teacher Takashi Mizukami was a delight and had a great sense of humour during our class. He began by teaching us how to make Lemon Pannacotta so we could create that first and get it into the fridge for setting. As it was my first time taking a class like this, I was a bit nervous that I wouldn’t be able to keep up with the other students. I was completely wrong as every item that is needed for the recipe is laid out and portioned in front of you and everyone moves at their own pace. The chef moved around the room offering us tips as we cooked and every time we made a new dish, we could just leave our dirty dishes to be picked up by the Dirty Apron’s very own elves! Our dirty dishes would be gone by the time we returned to our stations and new recipe items were presented to us.

Our second creation was making pasta dough from scratch. Not an easy task I must say! We then turned the pasta into Arugala Goat Cheese Ravioli with a Walnut Sage Sauce which was scrumptious.  Unfortunately I missed one step in the ravioli making and mine pretty much fell apart when I placed it in the pot to cook. But it still tasted wonderful! Then we moved on to the Grilled Lamb Sirloin with Ricotta Herb Gnocchi and Morel Sauce which I was ultimately pleased with. My lamb sirloin came out perfectly and I had no complaints with my new culinary skills this time around.

Then after enjoying our main course, we were able to top off our meal with our very own Lemon Pannacotta which was creamy and decadent. Along with the meal, you could choose white or red wine, non-alcoholic sparkling wine and beer.

My Final Thoughts

We thoroughly enjoyed our visit at the Dirty Apron Cooking School and I personally cannot wait to learn how to make more of the Dirty Apron’s signature dishes. I believe the school can offer students the chance to increase their confidence level in the kitchen and allow them to unleash their inner chef. I am going back in July for the couples ‘It Takes Two’ class with my beau, so I will be back with my experience update on this magnificent cooking school and the culinary experiences they provide.

Where?

Dirty Apron Cooking School
540 Beatty Street, Crosstown
Vancouver, BC V6B 2L3
Tel: 604-879-8588
Website: www.DirtyApron.com

The Basics

If you are seeking the perfect place for your family to spend quality time together and have some world-class family fun, The Great Escape in Langley, British Columbia is the place to go! This colourful state-of-the-art indoor theme park welcomes people of all ages because The Great Escape believes you’re just never too old to have fun. The Great Escape offers family-fun for everyone and includes a wide range of activities, packages and experiences for all.  From 3D indoor mini golf and laser tag to a new 5D Simulator and Highway 66 Bowling, there is so much fun to be had.

Guests to The Great Escape can grab a bite to eat at the Coba Cafe, try their luck in the arcade, have a family shoot out in the Ballistic Ball Zone Arena or zap their loved ones in the two-tiered Alien Tomb Laser Tag area. Kids, small and tall, love playing in the Jungle Theme Mayan Adventure Playground while toddlers under the age of 3 can experience interactive play in the Toddler Ocean Playground. Get your adrenaline pumping by racing your friends on the Air-Trek Obstacle Adventure Course or hold your birthday party in one of the themed party rooms.

Three Highlights that Make This Family-Friendly Attraction Unique

• The Great Escape’s Air-Trek Obstacle Course is one of a kind and offers jam-packed fun for those without a fear of heights.
• A new 5D Simulator that takes you and four others on a wild virtual ride where you can hear, see and feel your experience.
• A ‘Play Card’ system so you can leave your change at home. You can purchase a card, swipe it and have access to games, activities, retail purchases and food!

Activities Provided by The Great Escape Include:

• 2 Level Alien Tomb Laser Tag
• Air-Trek Obstacle Adventure Course
• 3D Indoor Mini Golf
• Jungle Themed Mayan Adventure Playground
• New 5D Simulator
• New Themed Party Rooms (Teddy Bears Picnic, Tea Party and Wizard themes!)
• Highway 66 Bowling (fantastic to play in teams, kids against parents or boys against the girls!)
• Coba Cafe (Offering a variety of sandwiches, veggie plates, nachos, pizza, wraps, salads, baked goods and more.)
• Arcade and Redemption Area
• New Active-8 Interactive Floor and Light Space
• Ballistic Ball Zone Area (Kids can have a shoot out with their parents!)
• Toddler Ocean Playground (Perfect for tiny tots under 3 years of age)
• Team and Group Packages
• Corporate Events and Team Building
• Fundraisers
• Dry Grad Parties
• Private Christmas Parties
• Cafe Top Mezzanine
• Rockin’ Evenings
• Party Add-ons (Once your party is booked you can add balloons, goodie bags, birthday cakes and more as The Great Escape has everything you need for a successful event and celebration)

Tips for Visitors: Some Things To Know Before You Go

• When you plan a trip to The Great Escape it is important to wear socks and comfortable running shoes so you can chase your family and friends in the laser tag area, race around the playground and conquer great challenges on the Air-Trek Obstacle Adventure.
• The Great Escape accepts all methods of payment from major credit cards(American Express, Mastercard and Visa) and there is an ATM machine onsite for cash withdrawal.
• There is free parking and free wireless internet.
• Don’t drink or eat too much before climbing aboard the 5D Simulator!
• If you want to have more time and easy access to activities, try and go before 12 noon or after 5pm on weekends where it is a bit more quiet.

Our Family Experience at The Great Escape

Our family has only but good things to say about The Great Escape and without a doubt we plan to return. It is the perfect idea for a birthday celebration as well as many other types of celebrations. I was worried it might not be that clean considering the amount of children that pass through the attraction every day, but was extremely pleased when I saw how safe and clean the entire area actually was.

I was impressed with the layout of activities at The Great Escape and the colourful and happy atmosphere that we first encountered. The staff we met upon arrival gave us a friendly welcome and we were escorted from activity to activity by Carolyn, one of the venues knowledgeable and attentive hosts who got us set up with each activity.

We started off with the 3D Mini Golf which was a delight as the colours were so vibrant! My family moved through the 9-hole mini golf course with ease and as we were there around 6pm in the evening, there was enough space between each mini golfing group.

We were eager for some action so we jumped upon the chance to try the laser tag out and attack each other with laser beams. This was my favourite activity (maybe because I had 413 hits on my family!) and it may have been only 12 minutes long, but it felt like half an hour of racing around the laser tag arena. Needless to say, we were are sweating when we finished, but ready for some more fun.

We then tried the 5D Simulator and experienced a ride that included guiding the ship, shooting down creatures and a lot of roller coaster motions. I enjoyed it and was thankful we didn’t all stuff our faces before at the Coba Cafe! If you love the rush or the rides at an amusement park, you’ll love a trip on the 5D.

Next up was the Air Trek Obstacle Adventure where we all got set up in harnesses and with helmets. My family raced around each obstacle making it look super easy! If you love a solid adrenaline rush, try this activity out.

After tearing up the skies on the Air Trek Obstacle Adventure, we then played a few games of bowling on the Highway 66 Bowling lanes. We played girls against the boy, but we never actually found out who won because of a few technical difficulties.  By this time we were all getting a bit tired as it really does take a lot out of you, in a good way! The kids (ages 10,11 and 13) went off to play in the Jungle Themed Mayan Adventure Playground which was huge, clean, safe and looked like loads of fun. It gave the kids a chance to mingle with other kids and have some time to blow off any extra steam before heading home for the day.

My Final Thoughts

I have been wanting to visit and review The Great Escape for quite some time now and I am extremely happy I did.  You may have to drive a bit further out of Vancouver to reach Langley, but it is so worth the time. If you need the perfect place to entertain your family for the day and truly want to spend some quality time together, The Great Escape is a top choice where family-friendly activities are concerned. It lives up to its name and provides families with the ultimate ‘escape’ they so desperately need from daily chores, work and school stress, as well as endless boring routines.

* A special thank you to the General Manager, Casey Martin and Kathleen Kuryliw in the Marketing Department for arranging this visit and making it a fun-filled day for our family.

Where?

The Great Escape

104-20645 Langley Bypass

Langley, BC V3A 5E8

Tel: (604) 530-1400

Website: www.TheGE.ca

Located on one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city of Vancouver, the pet-friendly Granville Island Hotel and Dockside Restaurant offers the perfect place to dine, play and stay. The staff is welcoming, hotel rooms are luxurious, the restaurant and lounge area is enticing and the hotel remains one of Vancouver’s best kept secrets.

Some of the main hotel amenities are on-site parking for guests, nearby bike rentals, a business centre, a fitness centre and jacuzzi, as well as aerobic classes and recreational sports at the next-door False Creek Community Centre. Accommodations are available for those seeking a budget-friendly stay or who want to live lavishly on the island. Guests can choose anything from cozy standard and superior rooms to luxury executive suites and the penthouse.

This gem-like boutique hotel rests on the shores of False Creek which overlooks the entire city making this hotel stay truly unique to others in the Vancouver area. Meeting rooms are available for those high powered meetings with colleagues, a roof top hot tub is perfect for relaxing those tired muscles after a workout and the gastronomy in the Dockside Restaurant is to die for.

Three Highlights that Make this Hotel Unique

• Luxurious penthouses with phenomenal False Creek Views
• Every hotel room is uniquely furnished compared to the next
• Located on one of the largest attractions, Granville Island in Vancouver, British Columbia

Amenities? Yes Please!

• In-room coffee makers with select coffees and teas
• Roof top hot tub
• Complimentary high speed wireless internet
• Irons and ironing boards
• Data port telephones
• Stocked mini-bar fridges
• Robes and slippers
• Pet-friendly services
• Television with on demand channels
• Granville Island Public Market nearby
• Boutique shops and cafes outside front of hotel
• Dockside Restaurant on-site
• Nearby kayak or bike rentals
• Deluxe mattresses, triple sheeting and duvets
• 42″ Flat Screen TV’s
• Penthouse rentals
• Vending machines
• Audio visual services
• Wedding venues and menus
• Work desk
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff

In a Nutshell

My stay at the Granville Island Hotel was short and sweet and it gave me just enough of an experience to be able to recommend it to my readers, as well as to my friends and family. Our room was extremely cozy and charming, as well as impeccable and classy. We also had a superb view of False Creek and the passing boats. The furnishings within the room offers guests the opportunity to have everything at their fingertips while staying on Granville Island and in the city of Vancouver, British Columbia. The staff at the front desk were warm and inviting, as well as knowledgeable and cheerful.

The Dockside Restaurant: Panoramic Views, Classic Dishes and First-Class Service

As a Reader’s Choice Winner, the Dockside Restaurant is situated on the waterfront of beautiful Granville Island which offers spectacular sunset views of False Creek, Yaletown and the North Shore Mountains. This attractive and cozy restaurant offers guests a gastronomic experience unlike other restaurants in the city of Vancouver, British Columbia. Featuring a 50-foot aquarium, an intimate lounge area and an award-winning patio just perfect for False Creek sunset views, the Dockside Restaurant is the perfect venue to dine at while visiting Vancouver and while staying at the Granville Island Hotel.

Three Highlights that Make the Dockside Restaurant Unique

• A 50-foot aquarium filled with market price seafood
• Cozy fireplaces and casual seating areas
• Open dining room for panoramic and sunset views

Must-Try Dishes
I asked for some recommendations from our server, but we were very happy with our choices while we dined. Here are some of the server’s top choices and ours.

Top Three Appetizers

• Forno Flat Bread (One of the most scrumptious flat breads I have ever tasted and I have sampled many on my media visits. The best ingredient is the warm goat cheese!)
• Legendary Chili Squid (Oh so yummy and full of taste! Don’t miss out!)
• Saltspring Island Mussels

Top Three Mains

• Herb Crusted North Pacific Halibut
• Thai Bouillabaise (This was my choice and it was full of Thai flavour)
• Five Spice BBQ Half Duck (I’ll be sampling this dish on my next visit)

Top Three Desserts

• The Vetka #9 (Vanilla pastry cream and hazelnut praline deep fried inside bric pastry with milk chocolate. A vanilla lover’s dream!)
• Creme Brulee (Who can say no to one of the most famous desserts of all time? The Dockside Restaurant’s creme brulee is an ultimate comfort food!)
• Vanilla Bean Cheesecake with cherry compote and candied almonds

In a Nutshell

The Dockside Restaurant is perfect for every type of dining experience whether you are on a first date, celebrating a 40th anniversary or planning a wedding reception for 200 people. With a wide selection of dishes to satisfy all types of appetites and cravings, this restaurant offers guests to Granville Island and Vancouver a whole new level of waterfront dining including glorious city of Vancouver views. I will definitely be returning to this restaurant to try the Seared Qualicum Bay Scallops, the Five Spice BBQ Half Duck and the Sorbet Trio. I recommend that you book your dining experience when you know it is going to be sunny and a clear night as the views of False Creek, Yaletown and the entire city is absolutely breath taking.

Granville Island Hotel
1253 Johnston Street
Vancouver, BC
Canada V6H 3R9
Telephone: (604) 683-7373
Web: www.GranvilleIslandHotel.com

Dockside Restaurant
1253 Johnston Street (Granville Island)
Vancouver B.C. V6H 3R9
Phone: 604-685-7070
Fax: 604-685-7079
Email: info@docksidebrewing.com
Web: www.DocksideVancouver.com

If you’re unsure what it’s all about, here’s the basics:

Read more about how it all started at Know Your Meme.

The Harlem Shake video meme became so wildly popular that over 4,000 “Harlem Shake” videos were being uploaded to YouTube daily by all walks of life including big brands and celebrities.

The people of Vancouver were in on it too.

Here are the Top 10 Harlem Shake Videos That Have Been Created in Vancouver: 
  

The Harlem Shake: Vancouver Whitecaps Office Edition

We’d all love to know if that is a real SkyTrain attendant approaching the one with the laundry basket on their head (seemingly to ask them to take the thrusting down a notch?). While this Harlem Shake video is definitely entertaining, it would have been amazing if the attendant was part of the crowd in the second part!

Who’s behind this Harlem Shake video: Vancouver Whitecaps

Harlem Shake Video: The Vancouver Sun

While we would have liked to see more costumes and a better angle to see more of the seemingly large staff participating in the background, The Vancouver Sun deserves to be in the top 10 for a valiant effort. The guy with the box on his head that starts the Shake, REALLY gives it EVERYTHING he has during the second part of the video. He had to be sore the next morning after whipping his body around like that! Kudos to you, box on head guy.

Who’s behind this Harlem Shake video: The Vancouver Sun

The Harlem Shake: BCIT Vancouver Edition

You gotta give it up for BCIT, they look they’re having a ridiculous amount of fun and they have a few of the most (*ahem*) unique costumes in the vancouver Harlem Shake videos. We also like how the proudly represent the Canadian flag in the background.

Who’s behind this Harlem Shake video: BCIT Vancouver

The Harlem Shake: Whistler Edition

How could we not include a Harlem Shake video that is representing Whistler? These guys also get props for originality and getting beautiful shots of the mountains in amongst the madness.

Who’s behind this Harlem Shake video: N/A

Harlem Shake Video: North Vancouver Fountain Edition

This crazy mob did their version of the Harlem Shake at the North Vancouver Lonsdale Quay Water Fountain. We would have loved to see a closer angle of some of the participants, but nevertheless this was an awesome performance and looks like it would have be a blast to be there in person when this one went down.

Who’s behind this Harlem Shake video: N/A

The Harlem Shake Video: Vancouver T-Birds Juvenile Hockey Team

What would a list of Vancouver Harlem Shake videos be without a hockey version? It just wouldn’t be Canadian without this one. These guys really go hard, and what a great way to celebrate a victory!

Who’s behind this Harlem Shake video: Vancouver T-Birds Juvenile Hockey Team

Harlem Shake on the Translink SkyTrain in Vancouver

Not sure if this person works at the Whitecaps office in the mascot outfit on a regular basis, but sure glad he/she was there on this day. The guy on the right taking repeated beak nips to the head is definitely the highlight of this video!

Who’s behind this Harlem Shake video: Spandy Andy

Harlem Shake on Granville Street, Vancouver

Yes, we know it’s the same bunch of crazies doing the Harlem Shake here as on the SkyTrain (we recognize the tight n’ bright spandex and the striped laundry basket). But, we feel like it deserves to be on the list. However, we now know that the copy/SkyTrain attendant was likely part of the set up. Oh Spandy Andy, you crazy mofo, you.

Who’s behind this Harlem Shake video: Spandy Andy

Harlem Shake Video: Vancouver Style by West Trek

When these guys named their Harlem Shake video “Vancouver Style”, we think they meant in the rain. This one is great and we especially like the debris flying out of the guy’s pockets and smashing on the sidewalk. He looks concerned for a second, but nothing is going to stop him from nailing his part in this Harlem Shake!

Who’s behind this Harlem Shake video: West Trek Tours

Harlem Shake Video: UBC Vancouver

UBC Vancouver weighs in with their massive version of the Harlem Shake. Not only is it the one with the most participants, but it is also the most popular with over 150k views on YouTube (at the time of posting this article). Way to go UBC Vancouver!

Who’s behind this Harlem Shake video: The Calendar UBC and Hollis Mason

Which Harlem Shake Video On This List Was Your Favorite?

Let us know in the comments below!

1. Commodore Ballroom

Address:
868 Granville St
Vancouver, BC V6Z 1K3
(604) 683-9413

Website: Commodore Ballroom Tickets

The Commodore Ballroom on downtown Granville street has long been a favorite venue of Vancouver concert goers and performers alike. It’s size (almost 1,000 capacity) allows for popular performers that seem to make a point of returning to the same venue (unless they have blown up since their first visit and even then sometimes they will return). The dim lighting and rich features make it feel fancy but not overdone. The layout and acoustics are simply perfect for attending a concert with a large dance floor with and balconies lining the outsides. General admission seating allows for easy access to the stage at all times while the huge ceiling and square room provide perfect sound throughout.

2. BC Place

Address:
777 Pacific Blvd
Vancouver, BC V6B
(604) 669-2300

Website:BC Place

BC Place is located in the heart of Vancouver. Home of the BC Lions CFL Football team, BC Place can hold over 59,000 people. BC Place is Canada’s first domed arena (built in 1983) and is the largest air supported stadium in the world. Expo 86 was hosted at BC Place and the Opening Ceremonies for the 2010 Winter Olympics will also be held there. International acts such as Madonna, U2, AC/DC and more have played at BC Place.

3. Queen Elizabeth Theatre

Address:
777 Pacific Blvd
Vancouver, BC V6B
(604) 669-2300

Website: Queen Elizabeth Theatre

The “Queen E” Theatre was originally opened by Queen Elizabeth II herself in in 1959. The theatre can hold up to 2,576, but is currently closed from May 13 to November 14 2009 for construction. The Queen Elizabeth Theatre is the home of Vancouver Opera and Ballet British Columbia. The QET attracts everything from large concerts to Broadway acts and has housed such legendary acts as The Tragically Hip, KD Lang, Santana, George Carlin, and Robin Williams.

4. Rogers Arena

Address:
800 Griffiths Way
Vancouver, BC V6B 6G1
(604) 899-7400

Website: Rogers Arena

Rogers Arena  is an indoor sports arena located at 800 Griffiths Way in the downtown area of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Opened in 1995, the arena was known as General Motors Place (GM Place) from its opening until July 6, 2010, when General Motors Canada ended its naming rights sponsorship and a new agreement for those rights was reached with Rogers Communications.

5. Deer Lake Park

Address:
6450 Deer Lake Ave
Vancouver, BC

Website: Deer Lake Park

Deer Lake Park is an outdoor concert venue located in Burnaby. In recent years the venues has been home to outdoor festivals such as this years Virgin Festival which featured over 1,700 guests and hosted acts such as The Roots, Ben Harper, Metric and many more.

6. The Orpheum Theatre

Address:
Hamilton at Dunsmuir
Vancouver, BC

Website: The Orpheum Theatre

The Orpheum Theatre, built in 1927, is a protected historical site in Vancouver. The Orpheum has seating for 2,688 and houses acts such as The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. In 1969 the “Save the Orpheum” campaign raised over $400k with the government pitching in the rest for the restoration project that was completed in 1977. The Orpheum originally opened as a vaudeville house, with the depression it became an entertainment venue and cinema, housed the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, and is now one of the North America’s finest concert halls.

7. The Centre In Vancouver For The Performing Arts

Address:
777 Homer Street
Vancouver, BC V6B 2W1
(604) 602-0616

Website: The Centre In Vancouver For The Performing Arts

The Centre In Vancouver For The Performing Arts, originally opened as the Ford Centre for Performing Arts, was built in 1995 and began as Vancouver premiere performing arts facility housing leading Broadway shows including The Phantom of the Opera, Riverdance, and more. The Level Three Auditorium holds 1,836 patrons with a 102 x 52 foot stage and a 20-50 person orchestra pit. The marble lobby, arched ceilings in the foyers, and the curving staircase make this building a sight to behold.

16. Daniel & Henrik Sedin

15. Igor Larionov

14. Harold Snepsts

13. Doug Lidster

12. Tony Tanti

11. Dennis Kearns

10. Mattias Ohlund

9. Richard Brodeur

8. Todd Bertuzzi

7. Kirk McLean

6. Thomas Gradin

5. Roberto Luongo

4. Markus Naslund

3. Pavel Bure

2. Stan Smyl

1. Trevor Linden

Do You Agree?

If you had to choose 16, would these be the top Vancouver Canucks players on your list?

Let us know in the comments!

The Vancouver Canucks are an NHL hockey franchise that joined the National Hockey League as an expansion team in 1970. This post will discuss the History of the Vancouver Canucks.

Expansion

The Vancouver Canucks entered the NHL in 1970. It was not until the 1974-75 season that they made the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Canucks would make the playoffs 5 times in their first 11 seasons prior to their first trip to the Stanley Cup finals.

1982 Stanley Cup Playoffs

The 1981-82 season marked the Canucks first run to the Stanley Cup Finals. Even though they finished with a regular season record under .500, the Canucks put together a fabulous and historic playoff run in which they beat the Calgary Flames, Los Angeles Kings, and Chicago Blackhawks before losing in the finals to the New York Islanders in 4 straight games. During this cup run the Canucks established the “Towel Power” tradition that has been copied by almost every fan base in the entire league.

1994 Stanley Cup Playoffs

The Canucks spent the next 9 seasons with losing records. In 1992-93 they posted their first winning season in 16 years. Followed by another winning record and a second consecutive Smythe division win in 1993-94. A season in which the Canucks returned to the Stanley Cup finals for the second time in their history. The Canucks defeated the Calgary Flames, Dallas Stars, and Toronto Maple Leafs before losing a heartbreaking 7 game series to the New York Rangers. Star player Pavel Bure and goalie Kirk McLean provided Vancouver fans with highlight reel goals and saves while the effort and determination of team captain and fan favorite Trevor Linden will live long in the hearts of Canucks fans.

West Coast Express

After another long dip in success the Canucks returned to being a Stanley Cup contender in the 2000-01 season with the emergence of the “West Coast Express”, their top line consisting of Markus Naslund, Todd Bertuzzi and BC boy Brendan Morrison. This team enjoyed much success during regular seasons and made 4 consecutive trips to the playoffs only to fall in either the first or second round each time.

Post-Lockout Canucks

The Canucks returned to their losing ways for 2 of the next 4 seasons after the NHL lockout in 2004-05. They enjoyed success with new star goaltender Roberto Luongo and Swedish twins Daniel and Henrik Sedin reaching the second round of the playoffs in both 2006-07 and 2008-09 finishing first in the Northwest division both years.

Uniforms and Logos

The Vancouver Canucks have gone through many uniform and logo changes over the years. Here is a look at all the different jerseys worn by Vancouver Canuck teams since their inception in to the NHL in 1970.

Arenas

Two arenas in the Vancouver area have been home to the Canucks. The Pacific Coliseum, completed in 1968, was their home until the opening of state of the art GM Place in downtown Vancouver in 1995.

Notable Players

Orland Kurtenbach
Stan Smyl
Pavel Bure
Trevor Linden
Markus Naslund
Todd Bertuzzi
Roberto Luongo
Daniel Sedin
Henrik Sedin

Canuck Place

Canuck Place Children’s Hospice provides specialized care for children living with life-threatening illness and support for their families throughout BC. The Vancouver Canucks organization and their players play a huge role in the lives of these children.

Links

Vancouver Canucks website
NHL website

British Columbia, as it’s license plates state, is the most beautiful place on Earth. With pristine wilderness settings offering every kind of vacation BC has something for everyone. Wether your idea of a great vacation is to live it up in the great city of Vancouver or to relax in a cabin along a remote river on Vancouver Island, you will find something on this list to get you excited for a visit to the west coast of Canada.

Accommodation in British Columbia can be whatever you want it to be, from roughing to staying in luxury to going heli fishing in the middle of nowhere. No matter your lifestyle, one thing is for sure, British Columbia can provide you with your dream vacation.

10. Redfern River Lodge – North Tweedsmuir Park BC

Redfern River Lodge is located at Eagle Bay on Eutsuk Lake in the 2.5 million acre North Tweedsmuir Park in British Columbia, Canada. The lodge is permitted to fish 15 lakes and 4 rivers with world class fly fishing. Some of these waters may not have been fished in years. Fly in fishing trips to pristine untouched waters… adventure and relaxation all in one.

Website: Redfern River Lodge – BC Fishing Lodge
Location: North Tweedsmuir Park, British Columbia

9. Eagle View House – Queen Charlotte Islands, Masset BC

Spend your vacation in the peace, tranquility and pristine beauty of the Queen Charlotte Islands. The custom-designed waterfront property offers an ideal home base for your Queen Charlotte Islands adventures. Experience the finest saltwater fishing where it’s still possible to catch a 60+ pound Salmon and huge Halibut.

Website: Eagle View House
Location: 1650 Delkatla Street, Masset, British Columbia

8. Gulf Island Cabin – Pender Island BC

The gulf islands are made up of over 200 islands, located just north of the San Juan Islands, the southern gulf islands lie between Vancouver Island and Vancouver on the mainland coast of British Columbia. Enjoy a little “island time” at this quaint and cozy cabin on Pender Island.

Website: Gulf Island Cabin
Location: 4702 Schooner Way, Pender Island, British Columbia

7. Birds of a Feather Bed and Breakfast – Victoria BC

Birds of a Feather is a waterfront B&B with private luxury suites on the western shoreline of Victoria BC at the storied Esquimalt Lagoon. All the hospitality and great breakfasts you would expect at a B&B, yet with the privacy of your own suite.

Website: Birds of a Feather Victoria Bed and Breakfast
Location: 206 Portsmouth Drive, Victoria, British Columbia

6. Fairmont Hotel Vancouver – Vancouver BC

Like the city of Vancouver that surrounds the Fairmont, the hotel is rich in history and natural beauty. Check out the luxurious Absolute Spa, Fairmont Gold floor, state-of-the-art health club, award-winning restaurants and an array of designer shops.

Website: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
Location: 900 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, British Columbia

5. Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa – Brentwood Bay BC

The Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa is the number one rated 5-Star hotel on beautiful Vancouver Island located in Brentwood Bay, just north of Victoria. The Essence of Life Spa offers esthetic treatments, massages, facials, pedicures, vinotherapies and hydrotherapies.

Website: Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa
Location: 849 Verdier Avenue, Victoria, British Columbia

4. The Wickaninnish Inn – Tofino BC

The Wickaninnish Inn is located in Tofino on northern Vancouver Island. This enchanting and critically acclaimed destination is on the awesome western edge of beautiful BC. The Wickaninnish Inn is the only resort on Chesterman Beach. Close to surfing and storm watching.

Website: The Wickaninnish Inn
Location: 500 Osprey Lane, Tofino, British Columbia

3. The Grand Okanagan Resort – Kelowna BC

Okanagan Lake is a 110-km long lake packed with pristine beaches and family fun including boating, sailing, kayaking, fishing, and more. The Delta Grand Okanagan Resort in Kelowna BC has 390 guest rooms, villas and suite accommodations all with lake, city or mountain views.

Website: The Grand Okanagan Resort
Location: 1288 Water St, Kelowna, British Columbia

2. Sundial Boutique Hotel – Whistler BC

The Whistler Boutique Sundial Hotel is located in the heart of Whistler Village, host of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, offering access to skiing, the Whistler Bike Park, Premier Golf Courses and more. Whistler is one of the top ski, bike, golf and wellness destinations in the world.

Website: Sundai Boutique Hotel
Location: 4340 Sundial Crescent, Whistler, British Columbia

1. Hyatt Regency Hotel – Vancouver BC

Extraordinary hospitality is the hallmark of Hyatt Regency Vancouver. The hotels has been freshly updated to reflect the excitement and vibrancy of Vancouver. The Hyatt is a Four-Diamond hotel boasting impressive facilities and amenities located in downtown Vancouver BC.

Website: Hyatt Regency Hotel Vancouver
Location: 655 Burrard Street, Vancouver, British Columbia

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Hopefully this post has inspired you to visit our beautiful province or has at least helped you make a decision about where to stay on your next vacation to British Columbia. If you agree or disagree with some of the selections in The Top 10 Places to Stay in BC feel free to post in the comments.

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Whether you are visiting from out of town, traveling on business or whether you live down the street, Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House restaurant aims to satisfy all of their customers upon each and every visit. This San Francisco grill-style restaurant has been satisfying visitors and locals for over 27 years and continues to excel with every dish served.

A Little History

This famous Vancouver establishment is also known by its rich history. Joe Fortes was named after a legendary seaman named Seraphim “Joe Fortes” who in 1885, landed on Vancouver’s glorious shores. He set up a refuge in English Bay and began his journey of changing the lives around him. His first job was to serve up various cocktails and spirits to the general public and then later worked his way into becoming an admired official lifeguard that watched over the young and old as they enjoyed the Pacific blue. To this day, his memory lives and thrives on the walls of Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House.

About the Restaurant

You will feel the ambiance at Joe Fortes as you enter through their doors into a cozy, warm and welcoming haven that offers locals and visitors a place to mingle and sample scrumptious cuisine. Conveniently located downtown at 777 Thurlow Street, at the corner of Thurlow Street and Robson Street, this restaurant is only steps away from first-class shopping, nightlife, attractions and more.

Small and large groups are always welcome and the restaurant team can organize a specialized menu for you upon your visit.

With a towering horseshoe-style oyster bar, intimate booths, warm inviting lighting, buzzing bar and bistro area, mahogany-rich wine room and a rooftop garden area, this famous restaurant is one of Vancouver’s most popular dining venues.

Hold a high-powered business meeting, celebrate a birthday or anniversary, or enjoy cocktail hour on the garden patio after a hard day of work.

Whatever the case or celebration, there is always a reason to visit Joe Fortes.

Get to Know the Executive Chef

Executive Chef Wayne Sych creates a variety of West Coast inspired dishes including some of the best local ingredients and imported seafood. Previously, he has worked with the former Cannery Seafood Restaurant and the famous Fish House in Stanley Park. His passion for sharing his creativity with food is portrayed through every class he teaches across the mainland of British Columbia. He continues to flourish in his career along the side of an excellent kitchen, food and beverage team at Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House.

Going Green

Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House believes in uttermost freshness, therefore, the restaurant is a true believer in sustainability. They are involved in a variety of programs, from Vivreau water and Green Table to Ocean Wise. Joe Fortes allows their guests to relax in a fine dining atmosphere, experience world-class cuisine while providing a low impact on the environment today. As the top runner of numerous awards and accolades, Joe Fortes provides their guests with a green-friendly experience and outstanding cuisine; now that is guilt-free dining!

Thumbs Up to Joe Fortes! Our Personal Experience

Entering Joe Fortes was an awakening experience. We had thought that since we reserved a table on a Tuesday night that it might not be as busy. We were obviously wrong in this case. Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House was buzzing from wall to wall! We loved the ambiance and the enthusiasm that oozed from the Grand Room upon entering and climbing the stairs to the garden rooftop patio. As we climbed the elegant stair case, a pianist played at the end of the first few stairs which added to the vibe of the entire establishment.

We were offered a seat near the fireplace and under a heating lamp which was helpful as it was still quite cool mid-June. We were served some French bread along with a lobster oil and balsamic vinegar dipping sauce which awoken our cravings for fresh seafood from BC’s West Coast.

Our first taste of Joe Fortes’s cuisine excellence was two appetizers including King Crab Tempura with sweet soy, fresno chile and smoked bacon, along with Crispy Fried Local Oysters with Joe’s classic tartar sauce. Both superb, colourful and unique in their individual form, I definitely recommend you try them both when visiting Joe Fortes. But, don’t let my suggestions limit you as there is an array of appy’s to enjoy. I spotted some other appy’s on nearby tables that appeared mouth-watering, such as the New England Clam Chowder, Oyster’s Rockefella, Smoked Local Albacore Tuna and the Beef Carpaccio. Needless to say, Joe’s Seafood Tower on Ice is definitely a ‘must-try’ on our next visit.

We then welcomed our main dishes which we shared so that we could enjoy the full experience at Joe Fortes Seafood & Chop House restaurant. Our mains included Joe’s Surf n’ Turf (sirloin steak, peppercorn sauce, jumbo prawns and market vegetables) with a small portion of Dungeness Crab and the Cedar Smoked Wild Salmon with artichoke ravioli, white wine, cream and mushrooms. Both dishes blew us away with their presentation, quality and taste bud tingling ingredients to curb any seafood craving. FYI: All steaks at Joe Fortes are Canadian AAA beef and aged a minimum of 28 days. Love wine? Check out Joe Fortes wine list here!

As for dessert, we sinfully indulged in the decadent ‘Dessert Trio’. Imagine; tiramisu, brandied cherries, Tahitian vanilla crème brulee, molten center chocolate cake, biscotti and vanilla gelato. Can anyone say YUM?! We gobbled up the devilish dessert (in a tasteful manner of course, fork in tow) and took in the garden patio crowd. The staff was extremely helpful and knowledgeable about each dish that was served or inquired about, and all of our questions about the restaurant were answered accordingly.

My personal experience at Joe Fortes was above and beyond and I will return without a doubt at some point soon to enjoy their wide selection of East and West Coast inspired oysters, flawlessly cooked steaks and seafood, perfectly seasons appetizers, as well as their sweet indulgences.

Visit their restaurant at 777 Thurlow Street and the corner of Thurlow Street and Robson Street. If you are craving top-of-the-line, lip-smacking cuisine that will have you begging for more, Joe Fortes is the place to be, and be seen.

You can also visit their website at http://www.JoeFortes.ca

or reserve a table by calling 604-669-1940.