Reflections

Well, I am home. I arrived this morning at 6:00 a.m. Thank you Sam for picking me up at the crack of dawn!

In looking back, which from my previous blog, you know I like to do, I have some things that I would like to share.

First off....
If you have never been to the Rocky Mountains, I strongly suggest that you go. The photos here are just a sample, and of course don't give the whole panoramic view of being there. Absolutely breathtaking!

Second....
Although you may find cowboys in Calgary, it is difficult to distinguish the real cowboy from the pseudo cowboys, especially during Stampede week. Everywhere I looked, there were Korean, Chinese, and Asian cowboys. Once in a while you would see a rugged type, with his red plaid shirt, and wornout boots, but he was mostly found in the surrounding bars in the downtown core and not at the Stampede, unless of course he was roping a calf, which I didn't see as it was too late in the day when we arrived and most of the events would be taking place later in the week, too bad.

Thirdly....
Calgary is an amazing City. Everything you would ever need in a City is there and in a compact area. The downtown is as compact as any large Canadian city that I have ever visited. I was impressed that the Zoo was close at hand and easily accessible. Construction of tall skyscrapers is underway in several areas of the downtown, Calgary looks prosperous. The widespread residential areas are a little disappointing. You really do need a car to get from the 'burbs into the downtown core. A single cab ride for me was $46 before I picked up the rental car.

Overall....
Although I enjoyed my visit to Calgary, and am very happy to have went, I don't think I'd be going out of my way to visit again, unless of course Ryan is still there. Like any large city, it's much of a muchness really after being there for a few days. From what I understand, he will be moving to Vancouver in September. Guess maybe that will be a destination next summer. Maybe some whale watching will be in order ....

In my opinion, the best shots of the trip: Moraine Lake

and Lake Louise Rapids

June-Anne