Story: August 2023

After returning from San Francisco, I’ve been lost in thought. In conversation with WeWork, I realized that I’ve visited their workspaces in all major Canadian cities except Calgary. However, I haven’t written a nomad blog about Vancouver, BC, even though I’ve been living here since late 2012. I may not technically be a nomad anymore, but I’d still like to share some tips on how to enjoy being a digital nomad in Vancouver.

The weather in Vancouver is quite ideal compared to Asia. I don’t have air conditioning in my room, but that’s not a problem. I’ve gotten used to it, but I couldn’t have done that in Tokyo. I’ve never seen a room in Tokyo without air conditioning, but I couldn’t sleep without it there.

In this blog, I would like to introduce WeWork in Vancouver, BC as well as some tourism.

Vancouver Travel | Super, Natural BC

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Digital Nomad

I signed up with WeWork in late May 2023. The promotion was 30% off for 5 months. The contract will be from June to the end of October. I am going to visit other countries as much as I can.

Vancouver, BC, Canada

©Expedia

The video looks good 😮 I am going to visit the local when I have time.

Vancouver is a major city in western Canada, located in the Lower Mainland region of British Columbia. It is the most populous city in the province, with a population of over 660,000 people. The Greater Vancouver area had a population of 2.6 million in 2021, making it the third-largest metropolitan area in Canada.

Vancouver is known for its natural beauty, with mountains, forests, and an ocean all within easy reach. The city is also home to a number of world-class attractions, including Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium, and the Grouse Mountain Gondola.

Vancouver is a diverse and multicultural city, with over 50% of its residents born outside of Canada. The city is also a major center for business and trade, and is home to a number of Fortune 500 companies.

Here are some of the things that make Vancouver special:

  • Natural beauty: Vancouver is surrounded by mountains, forests, and an ocean. The city is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of activities to enjoy, such as hiking, biking, skiing, kayaking, and sailing.
  • Diversity: Vancouver is a diverse and multicultural city, with over 50% of its residents born outside of Canada. This diversity is reflected in the city’s culture, food, and festivals.
  • Livability: Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world. The city has a mild climate, a high standard of living, and a strong economy.
  • Sustainability: Vancouver is committed to sustainability. The city has a number of green initiatives in place, such as a bike share program, a public transit system, and a green building code.

If you’re looking for a beautiful, diverse, and livable city, Vancouver is a great choice. I hope you have the opportunity to visit soon!

Here are some additional facts about Vancouver:

  • The city’s name is derived from the name of British explorer George Vancouver, who explored the area in 1792.
  • Vancouver was originally a small sawmilling settlement, but it grew rapidly in the late 19th century after the completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway.
  • Vancouver hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics.
  • The city is home to a number of professional sports teams, including the Vancouver Canucks (NHL), the Vancouver Whitecaps FC (MLS), and the BC Lions (CFL).
  • Vancouver is a popular tourist destination, with over 10 million visitors per year.

Destination Vancouver – official source of tourist information…

Visitor Lists in Vancouver, BC by Google Bard

  1. Stanley Park
  2. Grouse Mountain(Cypress, Mount Seymour)
  3. Gastown
  4. Chinatown
  5. Robson Street(Main St., kitsilano, Commercial Drive)
  6. English Bay
  7. BC Place
  8. Granville Island
  9. Museum of Vancouver
  10. Vancouver Art Gallery
  11. UBC, SFU
  12. Queen Elizabeth Park
  13. Science World
  14. Lynn Canyon Park
  15. Metrotown
  16. White Rock
  17. Steveston
  18. Whistler
  19. Sea to Sky Gondra
  20. Victoria
Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Digital Nomad
Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Digital Nomad
Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Digital Nomad

Flight

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad United States

I checked the flight to YVR(Vancouver, BC). It was not so expensive. From London, England, or Paris, France, it costs around $800 in August.

Is there something lip-off because of the population? I checked the flight from Vancouver to Tokyo. It costs $1400. To Shanghai, it costs $2000+. Something wrong here…

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad United States
Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad United States
Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad United States

©Translink

From the airport(YVR) to the downtown is quite a no-brainer. You can take a Skytrain and it connects to downtown, Vancouver. Now I know that this is not always common. Some famous cities in North America do not have a train from the airport to downtown. I was surprised actually.

Every city has an IC card(prepaid/rechargeable card) for public transit. In Vancouver, it calls Compass Card. You can get it at the station, machine.

Airbnb

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad United States

I searched for accommodations for August in Vancouver, BC at the end of July, but unfortunately, I couldn’t find any available private rooms in downtown Vancouver. The price is not so bad, from $65 to less than $100 per night. However, most of the accommodation is in Richmond and Surrey. It is a little inconvenient for a nomad. You can get downtown by Skytrain from Richmond or Surrey easily, but you don’t want to waste your time on transit every day. Close to downtown is the best.

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad United States

*July 31, 2023
Midnight to early morning is a little chilly in summer 2023. You don’t need AC. A fan is enough.

Hostel

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad United States

When I set a budget below $100 per night, I could not find a hostel in Vancouver, BC. I don’t feel that there is a value over $100 in this city though.

Craigslist

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad United States Canada

No Airbnb or no hostel, but we cannot give up affordability as a digital nomad. Please don’t forget to check Craigslist. 1 month’s rent may be cheaper than 2 weeks’ hostel.

Preparing for the travel

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad San Francisco

In the summer of 2023, a COVID test is not required anymore. It was very inconvenient at that time. In some periods, gov required travelers to stay hotel for a couple of days(I don’t know the United States, but some Asian countries). It was outrageous.

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad Vancouver BC

I watched Collision Toronto. Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced what he called a “digital nomad strategy” that will allow workers with a foreign employer to stay and work in Canada for up to six months.

Canada.ca: H-1B visa holder work permit
*You can no longer apply. We reached the cap of 10,000 applications for this initiative on July 17, 2023.

Forbes: Canada’s New Digital Nomad Program: Come For 6 Months, Stay Indefinitely
Canada.ca: Canadian experience class (CEC): Qualifying work experience

I don’t know how this strict is. Anyone can visit Canada in 6 months for travel. Then, you can work(UpWork, Fiverr or etc…) without a visa if you want. What’s wrong with it? More specifically, how gov know(regulate) it?

Lists before travel
– Passport (& copy) ✓✓✓
– Tickets for an airline (& print out) ✓✓✓
– Drivers license
– Health insurance card
– Foreign currency ✓✓
*Check the passport and expiration date as well.
*In my experience, WiFi at the airport is unstable. Printout is at ease.

– Suitcases, backpack
– Maps and directions (print out if need)
– Travel pillow
– Sleeping mask
– Earplugs
– Travel locks
– Luggage tags
– Pens and paper
– Snacks and empty water bottles ✓✓✓
– Small pocket knife (not in a carry-on!)
– Rope(expandable clothesline) ✓
*Snacks and empty water bottles save money at the airport.

– Cellphone, charger
– Laptop, iPad or Tablet, E-reader
– Chargers ✓✓✓
– Travel adapter and converter
*I always think that I need an iPad only during travel.

– Underwear
– Socks
– Sleepwear
– Shirts, polos
– Jeans, trousers, shorts
– Dresses, skirts
– Shoes, sneakers
– Flipflops, slippers(in accommodation) ✓✓
– Jackets, coats, raincoats
– Belts, ties
– Scarves, hats, gloves
*I don’t think no one forgets clothes. Less is better.

– Toothbrush, paste
– Deodorant
– Tweezers (not in a carry-on!)
– Soap, shampoo, conditioner
– Towels ✓✓
*Some hotels or Airbnb does not have towels

– Hair brush ✓
– Nailcare

– Tissues
– Skin products
– Glasses, contact lenses ✓
– Vinyl bags ✓
*These products above are always in the small pouch after travel. No need to care.

– Swimsuit
– Walking shoes
– Sunglasses ✓
– Sunscreen
– Umbrella ✓✓
– Daypack
– Books, e-books, magazines ✓

eTA

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad USA

Canada has a similar program to ESTA(the United States). It calls eTA(Electronic Travel Authorization).

ESTA

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad USA
Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad USA

You may visit Seattle or Portland. You can get there by bus from Vancouver. If you don’t use a flight, you don’t have to apply ESTA.

Each approved ESTA application generally is valid for two years and allows for multiple visits to the United States within that period without having to apply for another ESTA approval. Travelers whose passports will expire in less than two years will receive an ESTA valid until the passport’s expiration date. – Website

International Travel

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad Toronto

The day before the flight and it is the USA, not Canada(domestic). My anxiety is peak.

Online check-in

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad Toronto

I don’t get used to the procedure of flight. I am still not sure why I have to use the Kiosk at the airport even though I do check-in online. Anyway, please check in 24 hours before the flight. I printed out the ticket at WeWork. It is really convenient for both outward trip and return trip.

WeWork

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad United States

I searched WeWork locations in the world and Vancouver, BC is a little rare. Here is a relatively small city, but there are 6 locations. All locations are 24 accesses. It is convenient for digital nomads.

24 hours access
WeWork at Marine Gateway, Vancouver
WeWork at 2015 Main St., Vancouver
WeWork at 333 Seymour St, Vancouver

WeWork at Bentall II, Vancouver
WeWork at Bentall III, Vancouver
WeWork at Station Square, Burnaby

Mobile/Data(Prepaid SIM)

I always consider buying a prepaid SIM, but it is not affordable in the United States, around US$30 at least. I stay at WeWork for 8-10 hours per day. So, I haven’t bought it. I am sure that it is convenient. This option is totally up to you.

Is there an expiry date for the prepaid sim?
Yes, there is an expiry date for prepaid SIM cards. The expiry date varies depending on the carrier, but it is typically between 90 and 180 days of inactivity. Once the expiry date is reached, the SIM card will no longer be able to make or receive calls, send or receive text messages, or use data.

Should have an expiry date for prepaid SIM? I cannot agree with it. We need a global wifi provider. I hope Starlink will be.

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad United States
Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad United States
Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad United States

It looks very affordable compared with the United States. Canadian complain about the recent inflation, gas, food, rent, housing, and almost everything, but I feel that Canada is quite affordable. Once you come back from the United States, I really feel that.

*Please check the SIM card size on your smartphone before purchasing it.

Roaming charges

Please avoid any roaming issues. That’s really ridiculous in 2023. Telecom should work for it. In my case, Fido (a subsidiary of Telus) charges $12 per day in the United States for roaming. I took off my SIM card at WeWork when I went to San Francisco a month ago.

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Digital Nomad SF WeWork

WeWork at Seymour St, Vancouver

The location is excellent! WeWork at Seymour St is conveniently situated right in front of Waterfront Station, providing easy access to both the Expo Line and Canada Line, making it effortless to reach this location from YVR. The 8th-floor office at Seymour boasts a stunning and picturesque view, offering sights of Waterfront Station, North Vancouver, Canada Place, Gastown, and East Vancouver.

Moreover, you won’t encounter any lunchtime woes, as there are numerous dining options within a short 10-minute walking distance from the office. All in all, WeWork at Seymour St proves to be incredibly convenient and a great choice for your workspace needs.

WeWork at Bentall Ⅱ, Vancouver

I don’t mind being on the ground level at WeWork, Bentall Ⅱ, as it offers easy access and allows me to start working swiftly. However, one downside of this location is that it is surrounded by tall buildings, which can sometimes prevent me from feeling the warmth of the sun even on a beautiful sunny day.

Another issue I encounter here is the powerful air conditioning. When I sit by the window, it becomes challenging to concentrate on my work due to the cold airflow. While I understand that WeWork might not have direct control over the building’s AC, it does affect my comfort and productivity.

Furthermore, on the 2nd and 3rd floors, there are table seats available, but unfortunately, there are no nearby plugs to charge my devices, which can be inconvenient when my batteries run low.

WeWork at Bentall Ⅲ, Vancouver

Bentall Ⅲ boasts a prime location near Burrard station and offers a towering presence with its impressive high-rise structure. The breathtaking view from its 16th floor is a major highlight. Such a prestigious office space would usually be out of reach for an ordinary freelancer, but thanks to WeWork, this becomes a feasible option. This particular layout is one of WeWork’s iconic styles, and you can encounter similar designs in other WeWork locations.

However, in my experience, I’ve noticed that this location can be a bit noisy, especially when surrounded by groups of people. To counter this, a good quality headset is essential to maintain focus and productivity. Despite this minor drawback, I still appreciate WeWork at Bentall Ⅲ for its overall appeal.

Beats Studio Pro Wireless Headphones — Black

While Bentall Ⅲ has its charms, I tend to visit WeWork at Seymour St more frequently due to its closer proximity. Nevertheless, Bentall Ⅲ remains an excellent choice, and I find it to be a favorable option for my workspace needs.

*In August, 12F is now available for WeWork. WeWork staff said it is a little quiet than 16F.

WeWork at Main St., Vancouver

I have visited approximately 30+ WeWork locations across North America, and among them, WeWork at Main St. stands out as a rarity. Typically, WeWork is found within larger buildings, but at Main St., it occupies its own two-story building, which is quite unique. This dedicated WeWork space offers an ample number of hot desks, catering to various working preferences.

One distinguishing feature of this location is the presence of a quiet space, reminiscent of the first WeWork I encountered in San Francisco. It provides a serene environment for focused work and concentration.

Currently, the area around WeWork at Main St. may not have many shops in close proximity, but there is an evident trend of office buildings springing up in the Olympic Village vicinity. With this development, the number of cafes and restaurants in the area is also on the rise, making WeWork at Main St. increasingly convenient for its members.

WeWork at Marine Gateway, Vancouver

WeWork at Marine Gateway offers a compelling experience for both work and travel purposes. With its three floors (17th, 18th, and 19th), this location provides ample space for various needs. The 18th floor, in particular, stands out with its patio, creating a pleasant environment to work or take a break.

While there are only a few hot desks available on the 18th floor, the other floors adequately cover your workspace requirements. I genuinely hope that WeWork continues to operate at this location, as I find it highly valuable as a user. However, I can’t help but notice that there seems to be considerable investment on the business side. Given that Vancouver is known as one of the most expensive cities in the world, I’m uncertain about WeWork’s financial profitability in this area.

Nevertheless, regardless of the financial aspects, I’ve found that all WeWork locations boast a positive and friendly community, which adds to the overall appeal of using WeWork as a workspace solution.

WeWork at Station Square, Burnaby

WeWork at Station Square, Burnaby, is conveniently located beside Metrotown, making it an excellent choice if you plan to go shopping. Additionally, using the Skytrain occasionally adds a refreshing change of pace to your commute. Unlike the Expo Line, the Skytrain is not underground, allowing you to enjoy the scenery during your journey, which is a pleasant perk.

However, it’s worth noting that the location falls under the 2-zone fare, which might not be ideal for some. Due to this, I personally haven’t visited WeWork at Station Square on weekdays. Nevertheless, the reception area on the 3rd floor, with its big windows, brings ample natural light into the space, creating a bright and welcoming environment. The air conditioning is also satisfactory, ensuring comfort while working.

In my opinion, this location has been without any significant issues. As I frequent Metrotown, I’ve observed the continuous development of new condos in the area. While I’m not particularly fond of the atmosphere, I understand that some people may appreciate the vibrant and evolving surroundings.

Public Library

Blog Co-Working Space WeWork
Blog Co-Working Space WeWork

*Central branch was renovated a few years ago. 8F-9F are good for work.

Blog Co-Working Space WeWork

There are many libraries in Vancouver. It calls Vancouver Public Library(VPL). Some branches are not suitable for work, but there are many VPL are useful. If you are not currently using WeWork, VPL is a good alternative in Vancouver, BC. I listed the locations which I used for work.

Please keep your laptop with you each time when you go to the washroom. No one takes responsibility without you.

VPL for work
– Vancouver Public Library, Central Library (Robson St.)
– Vancouver Public Library, Mount Pleasant Branch (Main St.)
– Vancouver Public Library, Terry Salman Branch (Queen Elizabeth Park)
– Burnaby Public Library, Bob Prittie Metrotown Branch

Grocery Shop

Recently, inflation is hit Canada. People are complaining that everything is expensive. I came back from San Francisco and I feel that everything is affordable compared with the United States. No Frills Supermarket and Independent Grocer Supermarket are good options for grocery shopping.

You can also find Shoppers Drug Mart, London Drugs or Rexall in Vancouver. Compared with the United States, I feel that health & beauty goods are much cheaper. In addition, these products are not locked(e.g. Walgreens in SF, United States, you cannot take shampoo products from the shelf without staff), just grab then pay.

Short Trip

Vancouver is well-known as a nature city. In the north, there are huge mountains and real Canadians are enjoying it. Nature is not always kind. Be prepared when you trail in Canadian nature. The city is okay, but if I visit Vancouver, BC as a digital nomad, I am going to try escaping the city. I found some spots for day trips. I do try to describe the cheapest way to each trip.

Blog Digital Nomad Vancouver Canada Short Trip
Blog Digital Nomad Vancouver Canada Short Trip

Expected Cost: Free with shuttle bus
*When you use public transit, it costs $3.75 per ride(within 1.5 hours) with Compass Card

Grouse Mountain, nestled in North Vancouver, British Columbia, is a renowned all-season destination that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and exciting activities. A scenic gondola ride, known as the Skyride, offers breathtaking vistas of Vancouver’s skyline, majestic mountains, and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. During the winter, Grouse Mountain transforms into a winter wonderland, enticing ski and snowboard enthusiasts with its diverse slopes suitable for all skill levels. In the warmer months, the mountain entices hikers, mountain bikers, and thrill-seekers with a network of trails and thrilling zip-lining experiences.

Moreover, the Grouse Mountain Wildlife Refuge adds an educational touch, allowing visitors to witness native wildlife such as grizzly bears, grey wolves, and owls in their natural habitats. With its diverse attractions, stunning views, and a range of activities, Grouse Mountain offers an unforgettable experience for locals and tourists alike, making it a must-visit destination in Vancouver, BC.

Blog Digital Nomad Vancouver Canada Short Trip

Expected Cost: $105 with a shuttle bus (including gondola fee)
*If you use a shuttle without a gondola, it costs $40.00 CDN.
SEA TO SUMMIT TRAIL

The Sea to Sky Gondola is a popular tourist attraction located in Squamish, British Columbia, Canada. Situated along the breathtaking Sea to Sky Highway between Vancouver and Whistler, the gondola offers visitors a spectacular journey up the mountainside to the summit of the Sky Pilot Mountain.

The gondola ride provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding coastal mountains, lush forests, and the sparkling waters of Howe Sound. At the summit, visitors are treated to a host of activities and experiences, including hiking trails with varying difficulty levels, a suspension bridge offering breathtaking vistas, and dining options that allow guests to savor the scenic beauty while enjoying a meal. The Sea to Sky Gondola is a year-round attraction, offering different experiences in each season, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking awe-inspiring views of British Columbia’s magnificent landscape.

Blog Digital Nomad Vancouver Canada Short Trip
Blog Digital Nomad Vancouver Canada Short Trip

Expected Cost: Just $32 One-Way & $42 Round-Trip.
*If you use a lift at Whistler(Summer Sightsee 360 Experience Tickets), it costs $90.00 CDN.
Whistler PEAK 2 PEAK 360 Experience

Whistler, BC, is a picturesque resort town nestled in the Coastal Mountains of British Columbia, Canada. Renowned as one of the premier destination resorts in the world, Whistler captivates visitors year-round with its stunning natural landscapes and an array of outdoor activities. During the winter, the town transforms into a winter wonderland, drawing skiers and snowboarders to its legendary slopes at Whistler Blackcomb, offering a vast terrain for all skill levels. The village exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, bustling with shops, restaurants, and après-ski spots, making it a lively and enjoyable place to unwind after a day on the slopes.

In the summer, the mountains come alive with hikers, mountain bikers, and nature enthusiasts exploring the lush trails and enjoying breathtaking vistas. Whistler’s fusion of natural beauty, adventure, and a vibrant village ambiance creates an unparalleled experience that continues to allure visitors from around the globe.

Blog Digital Nomad Vancouver Canada Short Trip

Expected Cost:
$3.75(Skytrain) Waterfront Station – Bridgeport
$4.00(Bus) Bridgeport – Vancouver(Tsawwassen)
$19.20(Ferry) Vancouver(Tsawwassen) – Victoria(Swartz Bay)
$2.50(Bus) Victoria(Swartz Bay) – Victoria Downtown

Victoria, BC, is the capital city of the Canadian province of British Columbia, located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. Known for its charming and historic ambiance, Victoria offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

The city’s picturesque Inner Harbour is a focal point, featuring a bustling waterfront with scenic views, floating restaurants, and a lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore attractions such as the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel, the Royal BC Museum, and the British Columbia Parliament Buildings, which showcase the city’s rich history and heritage. In addition to its cultural offerings, Victoria boasts beautiful gardens, including the famous Butchart Gardens, as well as parks and recreational areas that make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether strolling through the vibrant downtown streets, enjoying high tea at one of the elegant tearooms, or taking in the stunning coastline views, Victoria provides a perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural wonders, making it a charming and inviting city to explore.

Blog Digital Nomad Vancouver Canada Short Trip
Blog Digital Nomad Vancouver Canada Short Trip

Expected Cost: Around $30.00 – $50.00
*The fare depends on the day and schedule.

Seattle is the largest city in the state of Washington and the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It is situated on an isthmus between Puget Sound (an inlet of the Pacific Ocean) and Lake Washington. The city is known for its coffee culture, grunge music scene, the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and its many parks and natural areas.

Here are some of the things that make Seattle special:

  • Coffee culture: Seattle is home to Starbucks, the world’s largest coffeehouse chain. The city also has a thriving independent coffee scene, with many cafes serving up delicious, locally-roasted coffee.
  • Grunge music scene: Seattle was the birthplace of grunge music, a genre of alternative rock that emerged in the early 1990s. Bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden made Seattle a global center for rock music.
  • The Space Needle: The Space Needle is a 605-foot-tall observation tower that offers stunning views of the city and surrounding area. It was built for the 1962 World’s Fair and has become one of Seattle’s most iconic landmarks.
  • Pike Place Market: Pike Place Market is a historic public market that is home to over 200 vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, flowers, and other local goods. It is a popular tourist destination and a great place to experience the city’s vibrant culture.
  • Parks and natural areas: Seattle is surrounded by beautiful parks and natural areas, including the Olympic Mountains to the west and the Cascade Mountains to the east. The city has over 400 parks and more than 200 miles of trails, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors.

If you’re looking for a city with a vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and a thriving coffee scene, then Seattle is the place for you.

Here are some other things to know about Seattle:

  • The city’s population is about 750,000 people.
  • The climate is mild, with warm summers and cool winters.
  • The economy is based on technology, aerospace, and tourism.
  • The city is home to many Fortune 500 companies, including Amazon, Microsoft, and Starbucks.
  • Seattle is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking.

Experience

Open Bookmarks Co. Blog Nomad Vancouver Canada

*Update: August 1, 2023
I decided to find something new every single day in the City of Vancouver during August. 1 reason is to keep motivated for work in August. At the same time, I would like to keep healthy. After work, I walked Coal Harbour to the entrance of Stanley Park, Lost Lagoon, West End, Alberni St, and Hastings St. I always feel that West End is a good atmosphere even if it is beside downtown. I found the condo, Alberni by Kengo Kuma. I knew the project, but it’s been before COVID. It may be fun to find modern buildings/architecture in the city. I will upload some images. The soles of my feet hurt since I was in San Francisco. Basically, cause of too much walking. I have to cure it first.

*Update: August 2, 2023
I walked Burrard Street, Granville and False Creek. There is a great mural drawn by Ola Volo. I saw her illustration at the Vancouver local cafe, Kafkas Coffee at Main(maybe 2015). Talented. On the edge of Granville, you can find the iconic building, Vancouver House. When I walked on False Creek, I realized that there is no Central Park or Golden Gate Park, but there are Stanley Park and False Creek in Vancouver. I saw the sign that Canada Goose is not always polite, but I don’t have any experience that Canada Goose attacked me. It was not sunny, but it was nice walking on weekdays.

*Update: August 3, 2023
I watched Oppenhimour last night. I chose it on weekdays to avoid the crowds and WeWork at Marine Gateway is a very convenient location. It connects to Skytrain. There are enough shops in the same area, such as T&T Supermarket, Shoppers Drug Mart, Starbucks, Tim Hortons, Subway and A&W. In addition, Cineplex Cinemas. I don’t know when I watch the movie at the major cinemas. A couple of times a year, I watch a movie at the local movie theater when VIFF(Vancouver International Film Festival) is holding some feature events.

Anyway, according to reputation, Oppenheimer was worth watching the movie at the theater. Dialogue is not easy for an ESL. I cannot say that I could understand the story and every detail. I don’t have much knowledge about movies in general, but actors, pictures, and sounds are great. I did not feel that it was 3 hours long. The irony is that I was born in a suburb of Hiroshima though far away from the downtown where the United States dropped the atomic bombs. In the movie, it shows the ash of the human in only a second. It did not show the pictures which took a month later. The movie is just focused on J. Robert Oppenheimer. Many local students in Japan have visited Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and  Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum during compulsory education. So, I know what it is. I don’t know how other countries teach the history of World War Ⅱ, but I believe that we have a duty to learn history.

*Update: August 4, 2023
I walked the surrounding Science World, Olympic Village, and Cambie Bridge. At WeWork, AC is too strong for me. Walking after work makes the body temperature normal. It’s a BC Day long weekend. I feel that many people are not in the city. When people travel, I stay and work, learning, walking, watching, and reading.

*Update: August 5-7, 2023
The first week in August, there are some events held in Vancouver, Canada. Pride Parade and Powell Festival are famous. If you have a chance to be here during the summer, Please enjoy the local events.

Conclusion: Work Life Integration

In early August, I found time to stroll in Vancouver. I thrive on staying busy and worked intensely on sales in mid-August. Currently, I have a couple of contracts and a full schedule on September 25. Achieving excellence in serving clients and boosting their businesses brings me the greatest satisfaction.

I advise against freelancing if you already have a stable job. Freelancing is demanding and unpredictable, with no days off; it’s all on you. I’ve freelanced for 7 years, initially juggling a full-time job. During the COVID pandemic, I discovered Upwork. Today, I offer a Design Subscription service.

I’ve met a lot of people through my work, although not every project went smoothly, and I encountered challenging clients. Nonetheless, I’m doing what I love, so I have few complaints. Delivering quality work and fair transactions gives me a fulfilling life, different from a corporate job.

Satisfaction with being good isn’t enough; my goal is to pursue greatness.

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I am learning the business of design as a freelance. I would like to hear your story based on an experience. Please send a comment or opinion. I will reply to you shortly.