Calgary, Alberta, Canada
I was out speaking at a conference at the University of Calgary and luckily, had a friend who was at the time living in the city with her husband. They were kind enough to play tour guide as we took a day to explore. Thank you Victoria and Kyle!
Attractions & Food
Banff, Alberta
This beautiful resort town is a feast for the eyes (much like most of this province). For a city dweller, it was a real treat visiting Banff. My friend even let me sit at the passenger seat during one of the drives so I could get a view of the spectacular mountains on the way. The town does have a touristy feel at some points but you can’t blame them as it is a resort town. When here, be sure to check out the Fairmount Banf Springs. You can go inside and look at the art, history, and some stunning views of the town. We also went to Lake Louise, which at this time was frozen solid. This didn’t stop us, so we ended up hiking on the frozen lake which was lovely! Just make sure to bring your hiking boots, which I forgot this time around, and was walking around in my black converse.
Canmore, Alberta - this town has some beautiful turquoise lakes and great trails. Unfortunately, the weather did not permit us to take advantage of its glory but I can’t wait to go back and fully explore Calgary’s true beauty…
Boogies Burgers
This place had the best burgers I’ve ever had. I don’t normally eat burgers or shakes but after a nice long hike, it sits quite well. Nothing fancy, just a great burger and a great shake.
University of Calgary - during the summer months, it’s a lovely time to walk around campus and explore the surrounding artwork
Gypsy Bistro and Wine Bar - randomly happen to stumble upon this place with a colleague and glad we picked it for dinner!
The Calgary Tower
What I liked about the city
This city is a treasure. I’ve never been around so many mountains and I must say, it was a very humbling experience as you’re surrounded by so much nature and you feel very small (in a good way). There is so much I haven’t seen and to be in this part of Canada was a dream of mine. A dream that I passed by in mere seconds. I can’t wait to go back. This time, with a friend who drives or who knows, by this time I might have my license. Either way, I’m definitely coming back and this time, I want to explore Jasper as well.
What I found odd/disliked
Honestly - nothing. I just wish I had more time and the weather was nicer. I was only a week away from the ice melting which really stung as I saw pictures from a few friend’s social feed just a week after I came back. Everything was melted and the turquoise lakes were glistening. Can’t wait to go back! :)
