My parents and sister finally visited Seattle for the first time! Naturally, we traveled around so they can explore the Pacific NorthWest and fall in love with the west coast as much as I have.

Friday, June 29 2017

I took my parents to Olympic National Park so they could see the beautiful coast and the snowy mountain peaks. We had a picnic at Kalaloch and Ruby Beaches in the south west coast.

We explored the tidal pools to spot starfish and even saw a dead whale on the beach! It was pretty gross but also cool.

We went to the Hoh Rainforest and hiked to see the mossy trees.

Saturday, June 30 2017

We woke up early to Hurricane Ridge and the mountain peaks were astonishing.

I suggested the Hurricane Hill hike for 3.2mile hike with 912 feet elevation gain. It wasn’t a long distance but it was challenging for my parents. I was so proud of them and they were rewarded with the 180° snowy peaks and blooming wildflowers.

We went to the nearby Madison Creek Falls and stopped at Lake Crescent.

We took the ferry from Port Angeles into Victoria, BC and settled in for the night.

Monday, July 1, 2017

It’s Canada’s 150 anniversary and Victoria was hopping! We joined in the festivities and wore matching Canada 150 tees. The port was very lively and everyone was glowing with Canadian pride. It was one of the biggest Canada Day celebrations I’ve ever been a part of and just perfect for Canada 150.

We headed to infamous Butchart Gardens to enjoy the flowers and the fireworks spectacular. The fireworks were very impressive and had to be one of the most unique shows I’ve seen! The music, timing and some ground fireworks were really well done.

Tuesday, July 2, 2017

We drove towards Vancouver and enjoyed some authentic but pricy dimsum. I showed them Stanley Park and Robson street. We attempted to go to the Richmond Night Market but the lines were just too insane.

Wednesday, July 3, 2017

I took them around Granville Island to sightsee and shop. We stopped at Yaletown for the steam clock but also drove by the very sketchy East Hastings where the homelessness was shocking.

We finished the day visiting the touristy and overpriced Capilano Suspension Bridge. It was extremely busy which wasn’t ideal but the park itself was quite nice and well maintained. The bridge was long but ordinary. In fact, I enjoyed the treetop hikes and cliffwalk much more.

It was very homey to share this short trip with my parents and sister. I loved showing them around Seattle (the first couple days before the trip) and just spend quality time with them. I miss them all the time and that has to be one of the hardest part of living in Seattle. It might be the biggest draw for me to return to Toronto one day.