When I first immigrated to Canada I was blown away by many things – not least of which was its free press. I had spent more than three decades living under a regime that tolerated no press freedom whatsoever, so I was extremely impressed by what seemed to be an unfettered press. After watching Global TV this morning my illusions of a free press in Canada are shattered (sadly, … [Read more...]
What do YOU think makes Vancouver special?
Vancouver is voted one of the best cities in the world to live in, year after year. In celebration of Vancouver’s 125th birthday, the Vancouver Sun’s Steve Whysall had an article in the Sun called What Makes Vancouver Special? Whysall revealed his pick of the ten brightest lights in Vancouver. As with all such lists, most people will agree with some and entirely disagree with … [Read more...]
Vancouver’s Cycling Culture – Anything BUT a Dull, Grey Monoculture!
Vancouver has been accused of having a dull, grey cycling monoculture. Nothing could be further from the truth! In Vancouver, the cyclists are as diverse as the population. Vancouver cycling culture is vibrant and colorful. Read about Great Bike Rides in and Around Vancouver Here – Vancouver Cycling I am grateful to many readers who have supplied ideas and photos … [Read more...]
If You Build It, They WILL Come: Bike Paths Lead to Increase in Cycling in Montreal
Montreal has great cycling infrastructure, as I wrote about in my series on cycling in Montreal. Turns out this infrastructure has led to impressive progress towards the city’s aims: decreasing pollution by increasing cycling in Montreal, while decreasing motor vehicle use. McGill University has been studying bicycle use since 2008, focusing on the spots where the city … [Read more...]
A Little Perspective on Costs: Knight Street Left Turns and the Hornby Bike Lane
Many people were horrified when they first learned that the proposed Hornby Bike Lane would cost $3,2 million. I was impressed: that's more money than I can even imagine. Since then, I've gained a bit more perspective. Readers have kindly shared with me some Vancouver City Council Minutes, and I have discovered that $3.2 million is neither that horrifying nor that … [Read more...]
